Network integrated construction system, method of installing network connection machines, and method of setting network parameters

Abstract

Parameters representing types of machines to be connected to a network, connection types thereof to the network, and operation modes thereof in the network system are set from an information processing apparatus. The obtained parameters are written as parameter files on a recording medium. In each network machine, a network system is automatically constructed by referencing the files. Consequently, the parameter setting operations for the installation of the machine are simplified and there is achieved automation of operations in each network machine.

Claims

We claim:

1. A method of constructing a network operating system for operating a network to which a plurality of network machines are connected for communications therebetween, comprising the steps of:

integrally setting, by a working machine, parameters unique to each of said network machines necessary for initial installation of said network operating system from said working machine; and

constructing said network operating system by initially installing said network operating system in each of said network machines for which initial installation is to be conducted according to said parameters set in said setting step.

2. A method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of:

recording, on a medium by said working machines said parameters in a parameter file; and reading by said network machines said parameter file from said medium.

3. A method according to claim 2, wherein said medium is a portable recording medium.

4. A method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of:

storing on said medium a file establishing a correspondence between a directory in which said parameter file is stored and names of said network machines; and

conducting an installation of said network operating system on one of said network machines specified by a user by use of said parameter file corresponding to said one network machine.

5. A method according to claim 2, wherein said working machine is one of the plural network machines.

6. A method according to claim 5, wherein the working machine transmits the parameters recorded on said recording medium via the network to one of said network machines for which installation is to be conducted.

7. A method according to claim 2, wherein:

the parameter file includes an automatic execution file and a reference file for initiation; and

each of the network machines executes the automatic execution file by use of the reference file for initiation.

8. A method according to claim 1, wherein the setting of parameters by the working machine is conducted by use of a graphical user interface.

9. A method according to claim 1, wherein the setting of parameters by the working machine is achieved according to predetermined hierarchic levels.

10. A method according to claim 1, wherein the setting of parameters by the working machine is conducted integrally in a batch manner for said network machines for which installation is to be conducted.

11. A method according to claim 1, wherein the setting of parameters by the working machine is conducted integrally in a batch manner for network machines connected to a plurality of networks including said network.

12. A method according to claim 1, wherein the setting of parameters by the working machine is achieved by use of preset default values.

13. A method according to claim 1, wherein the setting of parameters by the working machine is conducted by setting a parameter as a key such that parameters related thereto are automatically changed or updated.

14. A method according to claim 1, wherein the setting of parameters by the working machine is conducted by re-using parameters beforehand set for a network similar to said network or for similar functions of constituent elements thereof.

15. A method according to claim 14, wherein said re-using of parameters is achieved by at least one of changing a change portion thereof and deleting or adding an unmatched portion thereof, thereby setting the parameters.

16. A method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of:

utilizing said parameters set in said setting step for operation control and maintenance control.

17. A method according to claim 1, wherein the setting of parameters by the working machine is carried out in response to a sequential presentation of guidance information of a setting procedure with selection items displayed for each selection item as confirmation.

18. A method according to claim 1, wherein said installing step further comprises the step of:

simultaneously conducting an installation of application programs of said network machines connected to the network.

19. A method according to claim 1, wherein in said installing step, a user registration is simultaneously accomplished.

20. A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of integrally setting the parameters is performed in a batch manner.

21. A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of initially installing said network operating system in said each network machine occurs at initialization of said network.

22. A method according to claim 21, wherein said parameters unique to each of said network machines are set according to respective hardware configurations of said each network machine and the operating system.

23. A network integrated construction system for constructing a network operating system for operating a network, comprising:

at least one working machine including interface means for receiving a medium for transferring information and setting means for setting parameters on the medium unique to each of a plurality of network machines, physically connected to the network, necessary to logically connect the network machine to the network; and

each of said plurality of network machines having interface means for receiving the medium, input means for inputting the parameters set on the medium, and constructing means for constructing the network operating system by initially installing the network operating system to said each network machine according to the parameters input from the input means.

24. A system according to claim 23, wherein the parameters are formed into parameter files.

25. A system according to claim 24, wherein:

each of the parameter files is a file on the portable recording medium, portable recording medium includes a file establishing a correspondence between a directory in which the parameter files are stored and names of the network machines, and

the constructing means installs the network operating system by use of a parameter file associated with one of the names specified by a user.

26. A system according to claim 23, wherein the medium is a portable recording medium.

27. A system according to 23, wherein:

the at least one working machine which is one of the plural network machines is connected to the network as the medium; and

the parameters are transmitted from the at least one working machine via the network to a network machine for which installation is to be conducted.

28. A system according to claim 23, wherein the setting means sets parameters by use of a graphical user interface.

29. A system according to claim 23, wherein the setting means sets parameters according to predetermined hierarchic levels.

30. A system according to claim 23, wherein the setting means achieves the parameter setting operations for a plurality networks including said network and for a plurality of network machines connected to said networks integrally in a batch manner.

31. A system according to claim 23, wherein the setting means achieves the parameter setting operation by use of predetermined default values.

32. A system according to claim 23, wherein the setting means is responsive to a setting of one of said parameters as a key to automatically change or to update parameters related thereto.

33. A system according to claim 23, further comprising:

manual setting means for manually setting the parameters, wherein the manual setting means is coupled with the setting means by an online help menu.

34. A network according to claim 23, wherein the network operating system is initially installed in said each network machine at initialization of said network.

35. A network according to claim 34, wherein the parameters unique to each of said network machines are set according to hardware configurations of respective ones of said each network machine and the operating system.

36. A network integrated construction system for constructing a network operating system for operating a network, comprising:

at least one working machine including setting means for integrally setting parameters unique to each of a plurality of network machines physically connected to the network, necessary to logically connect the network machine to the network; and

each of said plurality of network machines having input means for inputting the parameters set by the working machine, and constructing means for constructing the network operating system by initially installing the network operating system to said each network machine according to the parameters input from the input means.

37. A network according to claim 36, wherein the network operating system is initially installed in said each network machine at initialization of said network.

38. A network according to claim 37, wherein the parameters unique to each of said network machines are set according to hardware configurations of respective ones of said each network machine and the operating system.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system for supporting an integrated or comprehensive construction of a network so as to facilitate the network construction, and in particular, to a system in which installations achieved in the network construction are automatically conducted.

In construction of a network system in which there are set connection types of a plurality of network apparatuses or machines mutually connected to each other via a network and operation modes of the machines, it has been necessary for the operator to visit each of the locations of the network machines to set parameters and to register the system, thereby achieving the installation of the machine. The present stage of the technology has been described, for example, in "Challenge| Personal Computer LAN", Nikkei Byte, October 1991. In consequence, for an installation of a network system, there are required a large number of human operators and a great amount of working time. For example, to install a network system constituted of a file server, a print server, and ten clients, three days are required for an average operator and one and half days for an experienced operator in the current stage of the technology.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore a first object of the present invention to facilitate parameter setting operations in the installation so as to automatically conduct the operations.

A second object of the present invention is to possibly simplify parameter setting operations in the installation of a plurality of network machines.

A third object of the present invention is to minimize the working period of time required for the operator at the site of the pertinent machine for the installation.

A fourth object of the present invention is to provide means for setting parameters so as to install a network machine at a location different from that of the machine.

A fifth object of the present invention is to provide a network integrated construction system for achieving the first to fourth objects above in an integrated manner.

A sixth object of the present invention is to provide operation screens which mitigate loads imposed on the operator in the parameter setting operations and which facilitates the operations.

To achieve the first object according to the present invention, there is disposed an independent working machine separated from network machines for the installation so that the operator sets parameters for a plurality of network machines in a centralized fashion. Accordingly, the parameter setting operation can be conducted at a location in a centralized manner. Moreover, regardless of installation states of network machines, the parameters can be set in advance.

To achieve the second object according to the present invention, parameters for the installation of network machines are written on a recording medium to conduct the installation thereof by use of the recording medium. Consequently, the parameter setting job can be accomplished at a location far from the network machines. Furthermore, the parameters thus prepared may be employed to install network machines in another network having the similar configuration.

To achieve the third object according to the present invention, the parameter setting operation for the installation of network machines and the installation of each network machine are conducted at different points of time and at different spatial positions. In consequence, the parameters can be set in advance and hence the period of time necessary for the operator at the site of the network machine can be reduced.

To achieve the fourth object according to the present invention, there is disposed a parameter file which contains the parameters for the installation of network machines and which is recorded on a portable recording medium. With this provision, modifications and changes of the parameters are facilitated and the management of information about the network configuration is simplified.

To achieve the fifth object according to the present invention, there is provided a network integrated construction system. In the system, there is created a parameter file containing types of machines to be connected to the network, types of connections of the machines to the network, and operation modes thereof in the network system. The file is referenced by each of the machines to automatically achieving the network construction related thereto. Accordingly, the network can be integrally controlled and operated. Moreover, in the network construction, installation parameters can be easily set such that the installation job in each network machine is automatically accomplished. In addition, for the operation control, the respective setting elements such as items of user registration and directory setting operations can be related to each other so as to achieve an integral control thereof in the user environments. Furthermore, for the maintenance control, there can be achieved an automatic maintenance operation. In this operation, when a failure is detected, the condition is notified to the user, and a countermeasurement is effected in an automatic manner.

To achieve the sixth object according to the present invention, there are provided, by use of a graphical user interface (GUI), operation screens most suitable for the parameter setting operations in the installation of network machines.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent by reference to the following description and accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a concept of a system manager and a position of an easy installer;

FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a network system construction support according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing concept installation of NetWare;

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing procedure of a conventional installation;

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a part of conventional installation screen in a file server;

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the structure of an easy installer according to the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an installation manager;

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing relationships between the screens of a file server installer (GUI section);

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustratively showing the processing of the file server installer (GUI);

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the initial setting processing;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the hard disk setting processing;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing of setting hardware for hard disks;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the hard disk setting processing;

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the LAN card setting processing;

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the processing of setting hardware for LAN cards;

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the LAN card setting processing;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the processing of setting protocol for LAN cards;

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the processing of setting protocol for LAN cards;

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the system setting processing;

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an initial setting window;

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a menu window;

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a hard disk setting window;

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a window to set hardware for hard disks;

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an LAN card setting window;

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a window to set hardware for LAN cards;

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a window to set protocol for LAN cards;

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a system setting window;

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a disk change confirmation window;

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a setting interruption window;

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a parameter load window;

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing a load termination window;

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a setting termination window;

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an overwrite confirmation window;

FIG. 34 is a diagram showing a save termination window;

FIG. 35 is a diagram showing in blocks the steps of file server GUI program;

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing common data of the file server GUI program;

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing common resources of the file server GUI program;

FIG. 38 is a diagram showing common programs of the file server and client GUIs;

FIG. 39 is a diagram showing the processing of a button with picture;

FIG. 40 is a diagram showing the processing of a button with selection button;

FIG. 41 is a diagram showing the processing of depression of the selection button;

FIG. 42 is a diagram showing the processing of re-drawing of the selection button;

FIG. 43 is a diagram showing the processing of an add button;

FIG. 44 is a diagram showing the processing of re-drawing of the add button;

FIG. 45 is a diagram showing the processing of depression of the add button;

FIG. 46 is a diagram showing the processing of a repeat function of the add button;

FIG. 47 is a diagram showing the processing of acquisition of focus of the add button;

FIG. 48 is a diagram showing the edit processing with add and subtract buttons;

FIG. 49 is a diagram showing the processing of change in the contents of editing with add and subtract buttons;

FIG. 50 is a diagram showing the processing of lost focus in edit processing with add and subtract buttons;

FIG. 51 is a diagram showing the processing of initial setting window of file server GUI program;

FIG. 52 is a diagram showing the processing of menu window of file server GUI program;

FIG. 53 is a diagram showing the processing of hard disk setting window of file server GUI program;

FIG. 54 is a diagram showing the processing of window to set hardware for hard disks in the file server GUI program;

FIG. 55 is a diagram showing the processing of LAN card setting window of the file server GUI program;

FIG. 56 is a diagram showing the processing of window to set hardware for LAN card in the file server GUI program;

FIG. 57 is a diagram showing the processing of window to set protocol for LAN cards in the file server GUI program;

FIG. 58 is a diagram showing the processing of system setting window of the file server GUI program;

FIG. 59 is a block diagram showing relationships between the screens of the client installer (GUI section);

FIG. 60 is a flowchart showing an initial setting processing;

FIG. 61 is a flowchart showing a menu selection processing;

FIG. 62 is a flowchart showing a system setting processing;

FIG. 63 is a flowchart showing the LAN card setting processing;

FIG. 64 is a flowchart showing the processing to set hardware for LAN cards;

FIG. 65 is a flowchart showing the processing to set protocol for LAN cards;

FIG. 66 is a diagram showing an initial setting window;

FIG. 67 is a diagram showing a menu window;

FIG. 68 is a diagram showing a system setting window;

FIG. 69 is a diagram showing an LAN card setting window;

FIG. 70 is a diagram showing a window to set hardware for LAN cards;

FIG. 71 is a diagram showing a window to set protocol for LAN cards;

FIG. 72 is a diagram showing a print server setting process;

FIG. 73 is a diagram showing the construction of print server installer window;

FIG. 74 is a diagram showing the processing to set the print server installer;

FIG. 75 is a diagram showing a system setting processing;

FIG. 76 is a diagram showing a printer setting processing;

FIG. 77 is a diagram showing a new creation setting processing;

FIG. 78 is a diagram showing a change/reference setting processing;

FIG. 79 is a diagram showing a name change setting processing;

FIG. 80 is a diagram showing a copy setting processing;

FIG. 81 is a diagram showing a menu window;

FIG. 82 is diagram showing a system setting window;

FIG. 83 is diagram showing a password setting window;

FIG. 84 is diagram showing a printer selection list window;

FIG. 85 is diagram showing a printer name setting window;

FIG. 86 is diagram showing a printer setting window;

FIG. 87 is diagram showing a transmission type setting window;

FIG. 88 is diagram showing a setting interruption window;

FIG. 89 is diagram showing a password setting interruption window;

FIG. 90 is diagram showing a printer name setting interruption window;

FIG. 91 is diagram showing a re-input error window;

FIG. 92 is diagram showing a new creation interruption window;

FIG. 93 is diagram showing a copy interruption window;

FIG. 94 is diagram showing a printer name setting interruption window;

FIG. 95 is diagram showing a copy disabled window;

FIG. 96 is diagram showing a printer deletion window;

FIG. 97 is diagram showing an illegal setting window;

FIG. 98 is diagram showing a setting termination warning window;

FIG. 99 is a list showing the state transition names of bit maps;

FIG. 100 is a diagram showing a button in a state 1;

FIG. 101 is a diagram showing a button in a state 2;

FIG. 102 is a diagram showing a button in a state 3;

FIG. 103 is a diagram showing a button in a state 4;

FIG. 104 is a diagram showing a button in a state 5;

FIG. 105 is a diagram showing a button in an all state;

FIG. 106 is a diagram 1 for explaining a state change;

FIG. 107 is a diagram 2 for explaining a state change;

FIG. 108 is a diagram 3 for explaining a state change;

FIG. 109 is a diagram 4 for explaining a state change;

FIG. 110 is a diagram 1 showing functional classification of bit maps;

FIG. 111 is a diagram 2 showing functional classification of bit maps;

FIG. 112 is a diagram showing comparison in size between buttons;

FIG. 113 is a diagram showing a method of presenting a curved line;

FIG. 114 is a diagram showing a method of presenting an intermediate color;

FIG. 115 is a diagram of a button without shade when an "on" character is in a clear color;

FIG. 116 is a diagram of a button without shade when an "onf" character is in a clear color;

FIG. 117 is a diagram of a button with shade when an "on" character is in a clear color;

FIG. 118 is a diagram of a button with shade when an "onf" character is in a clear color;

FIGS. 119 to 123 are flowcharts showing the operation flows of FS AUTO;

FIG. 124 is a diagram showing a procedure to initialize a hard disk;

FIGS. 125 to 127 are diagrams showing the operation flows of WS AUTO;

FIGS. 128 to 131 are diagrams showing the operation flows of PS AUTO;

FIG. 132 is a diagram showing a procedure to register print queues by an API function;

FIG. 133 is a diagram showing a parameter file to install a file server;

FIG. 134 is a diagram showing a parameter file to install a client;

FIG. 135 is a diagram showing a parameter file to install a print server;

FIG. 136 is a diagram showing the structure of directory of a parameter disk;

FIG. 137 is a diagram showing an index information file for file server installation;

FIG. 138 is a diagram showing a method of generating a parameter file;

FIG. 139 is a diagram useful to explain means to transfer parameters;

FIG. 140 is a diagram of an initial screen of FS AUTO;

FIGS. 141 to 178 are diagrams respectively showing windows 1 to 38 of FS AUTO;

FIGS. 179 to 186 are diagrams respectively showing windows 1 to 8 of WS AUTO;

FIGS. 187 to 191 are diagrams respectively showing windows 1 to 5 of PS AUTO;

FIG. 192 is a diagram showing an outline of a system construction method;

FIG. 193 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure to construct a working client;

FIG. 194 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure to construct a server;

FIG. 195 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure to construct a client;

FIG. 196 is a diagram showing an example of a parameter input screen;

FIG. 197 is a diagram showing an example of an overall system configuration;

FIG. 198 is a diagram showing an example of a first construction automatic execution file adopted in a construction start phase by a working client;

FIG. 199 is a diagram showing an example of a second construction automatic execution file initiated by the first construction automatic execution file adopted in a construction start phase by a working client;

FIG. 200 is a diagram showing an example of the internal hardware configuration of an information processing apparatus;

FIG. 201 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic execution file for reset which is prepared on a server construction FD to automatically achieve a server construction by a reset operation;

FIG. 202 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic execution file for NOS initiation;

FIG. 203 is a diagram showing an example of a default value file in which default values to be employed by the parameter input program are stored;

FIG. 204 is a diagram showing an example of a parameter file containing therein various parameter values of the network system which are determined by the parameter input program according to user inputs for default values;

FIG. 205 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of the parameter input program;

FIG. 206 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of the program to generate server construction FD;

FIG. 207 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of the guidance display program;

FIG. 208 is a diagram showing an example of the guidance display screen;

FIG. 209 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of a client shell generating program;

FIG. 210 is a diagram showing an example of an LAN driver association file indicating a correspondence between LAN card names and LAN driver file names to be used;

FIG. 211 is a diagram showing an example of a file construction program to generate a directory of a server HD;

FIG. 212 is a diagram showing an example of a default directory construction file in which default values to be used by the file construction program are written;

FIG. 213 is a diagram showing an example of an AP installation program;

FIG. 214 is a diagram showing an example of an interruption processing routine of the AP installation program;

FIG. 215 is a diagram showing an example of a program to create a client construction FD;

FIG. 216 is a diagram showing an example of a reference file for NOS initiation in which parameters necessary for the NOS initiation are stored;

FIG. 217 is a diagram showing an example of a directory display screen presented by the file construction program;

FIG. 218 is a diagram showing an example of the contents respectively of a construction tool FD, an operation monitor tool FD, an HD network driver FD, and an NOS system FD on which programs and data to be used in the present embodiment are stored;

FIG. 219 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the server construction FD created by the construction tool;

FIG. 220 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the client construction FD created by the construction tool;

FIG. 221 is a diagram showing an example of a file produced on the server HD by the server construction FD;

FIG. 222 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of a parameter input program associated with a plurality of default patterns;

FIG. 223 is a diagram showing an example of a default value file containing default values of a plurality of patterns to be used by the parameter input program associated with the plural default patterns; and

FIG. 224 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed for pattern selection by the parameter input program corresponding to the plural default patterns.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Thanks to development of the PC-LAN, there increasingly appear chances of configuring a network. In association therewith, the amount of work to be achieved by each system engineer (SE) has been increased; moreover, there has been recognized the difficulty of installation of a network operating system (NOS) for the network.

In this situation, to avoid the increase in the amount of SE job and to solve the hindrance in the installation of the operating system of the network, the inventors have developed a network integrated construction system (to be called a system manager herebelow). Referring now to the drawings, description will be given of embodiments according to the present invention.

FIG. 1 shows a concept of the system manager and positional relationships between the manager and easy installers.

A reference numeral 10100 denotes the system manager including portions respectively of a managing section for network system operation 10120 and a managing section for network system maintenance 10130, which overlap with a support section for network system construction 10110. Furthermore, an easy installer 10111 as an embodiment according to the present invention is located in a range of the support section 10110.

FIG. 2 shows an outline of the support section 10110.

Analyzing the support, there are obtained three phases as shown in FIG. 2, namely, a design phase 12010 related to a design job on desk, a client control phase 12020, and a work phase 12030 associated with work on site.

In the phase 12010, a network configuration, a user setting operation, a file structure, and the like are discussed for the design of the network. Requirements for these items include a job step 12040 to achieve operations of improving the design work, forming a manual-less system, and improving efficiency of SE training.

In the phase 12020, there are controlled install information, information of device or unit configuration, update information, and the like. Required for this phase are a step 12050 including operations to facilitate the control of installation information and multiplying control information by N through re-use thereof.

In the phase 12030, there are conducted jobs such as an installation, creation of work reports, and maintenance and diagnoses. For this phase, there is necessitated a step 12060 including reduction of work time and improvement of quality of user service.

These needs are entirely transformed into tools in a step 12100.

The creation of tools 12010 in the design phase 12010 is disposed to provide a user interface having a satisfactory usability 12070. For this purpose, a graphical user interface GUI 12071 is adopted. The GUI is executed in an information processing apparatus operating in an online or offline manner through a network system. The tool creation 12100 in the client control phase 12020 aims at controlling clients 12080. To implement the tool, information is transformed into items of files 12081. The tool creation 12100 in the work phase 12030 is employed to improve efficiency of work 12090. To achieve the object, there is implemented automation of processing.

Referring now to the network configuration of FIG. 3, numerals 14010 and 14020 denote a machine as a file server and a disk 14020, respectively. Numerals 14030 and 14040 indicate a print server and a printer, respectively. Reference numerals 14050 to 14080 respectively designate machines respectively of makers A to D. These machines are connected as clients to a network 14100, thereby forming a multi-vendor environment of FIG. 3.

In the network environment, to install the file server, the print server, and the clients, it has been heretofore necessary for the worker or operator 14090 to actually visit the installation site of the related machine so as to conduct the jobs above on the site.

FIG. 4 shows a NetWare installation procedure to constructing the network environment of FIG. 3.

According to the procedure, the operator installs a file server 16010, a client 16030, and a print server 16050 in this sequence.

In the file server 16010, there is accomplished a file server processing 16020. First, a server disk is installed, a reference file and an initiation file are created, and then NetWare system files are registered, thereby finishing the installation.

In the client 16030, the client processing 16040 is executed. An LAN card driver is first set, a shell file is next registered, and an initiation file is finally installed, thereby completing the installation.

In the final step, i.e., the print server 16050, there is conducted a print server processing 16060. First, a print queue is established, a print server system and a printer are set, and a connection is established between the queue and the printer, thereby terminating the installation phase.

FIG. 5 shows a portion of an installation screen of the file server. A reference numeral 18010 indicates a portion of a file server installation screen of the NetWare.

Numerals 18020 to 18060 denote operations conducted by an installation operator to input from a keyboard or the like such items as setting parameters according to indications on screens while checking instructions in an operators' guide or manual and the like.

In this regard, description will be given of problems related to the NetWare installation.

The NetWare installation method supports only a keyboard input interface to input necessary items in the format of command statement, which makes it impossible to implement a manual-less system. Consequently, the operability is considered to be quite unsatisfactory for the user.

In addition, default values cannot be used to skip setting operations, namely, all parameters are required to be inputted. Moreover, it is necessary for the installer to have knowledge of relationships between the setting parameters. This also makes it impossible to implement a manual-less system. In consequence, there exist a large number of parameters to be set.

As a result, the installation time is elongated and the installation operation becomes to be difficult.

FIG. 6 shows the system configuration in an embodiment according to the present invention.

The overall structure is constituted of a GUI section 20010, a parameter file section 20020, and an automatic execution section 20030.

The GUI section 20010 includes a GUI for file server installer 20011, a GUI for print server installer 20012, and a GUI for client installer 20013. The parameter file section 20020 includes a parameter file for file server installer 20021, a parameter file for print server installer 20022, and a parameter file for client installer 20023. The automatic execution section 2030 is constituted, for the network structure of FIG. 3, of an automatic execution program for file server 20031, an automatic execution program for print server 20032, and an automatic execution program for client 20033.

Next, description will be given of an installation method of a file server installer according to the present invention.

The operator first initiates the GUI 20011 operating in a machine connected to the network in an online or offline manner and then sets the parameters necessary for the installation of the file server according to GUI's suitable for operations. The parameters thus set by the operator are stored in the file 20021. The file 20021 is set for the file server 20031 for the actual installation such that the program 20031 achieves an actual installation based on the setting parameters stored in the file 20021 in accordance with the present invention.

Subsequently, the print server and client installers are similarly operated.

Thanks to provision of the system construction above, there are attained the following advantages.

Since the parameter file 20020 establishes interface between the GUI section 20020 and the execution section 20030, the job to set parameters of the GUI section 20010 need not be accomplished on the site. Namely, information related to the apparatuses and units constituting the network can be set from apparatuses in an office in a concentrated manner, which minimizes the work time on the installation site. In other words, the parameters depending on the network can be set from a remote place separated from the network. Moreover, the parameter setting operation can be conducted for a hardware system not actually existing in the network.

In addition, the parameter file may be controlled, for example, for each system thus constructed or for each client to develop a data base or the like, thereby flexibly coping with the system re-use, maintenance, operation management, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the following items will be described in detail.

1. Contents of installation manager integrating three installers, which will be described later, to supply the results to the user

2. Outline of user interface provided by installation manager and installers

3. Concept of easy setting employed to construct user interface

FIG. 7 shows an example of the installation manager developed by the grouping function of program manager of the MS-Windows (registered trade mark of the Microsoft Inc.)

A reference numeral 81001 denotes a window of the installation manager grouped by the function. Although functions of program manager are used in this example, it is naturally possible to regard the installation manager as a single program to supply information in a menu format. Moreover, the selection and initiation may be conducted by a program having a higher-level concept so as to improve the operability for the user.

Numerals 81002 to 81004 are icons having switching functions to initiate the related installers, which will be described later.

The icons 81002 to 81004 are associated with the file server installer, the client installer, and the print server installer, respectively.

The installation manager and the respective installers are used to provide a friendly operation environment for the user in which a graphical user interface is employed. For this purpose, the following types of control are provided.

1. Box for inputting therein a character string from a keyboard

2. A combo box for outputting therefrom, when a button is depressed, a list of selectable or selection items

3. A box to which a numeric value is set, a button to increase the value, and a button to decrease the value

4. A push button for selecting, when depressed, a function assigned thereto

5. Selection buttons in which one of the buttons is depressed to indicate a selection state

6. A list box for presenting a list of setting states

7. A list box related to a plurality of items associated with the list boxes above

8. Scroll bar for scrolling the display contents of the list box when the contents overflow the screen

9. Switch button to set a function, when clicked, in a toggle-switch manner

These setting control items are supported according to the contents of the setting parameters, thereby providing an environment in which the parameter setting operations can be efficiently conducted. Moreover, to implement an environment familiar to the user, the respective windows used to the actual setting operations are designed according to the image setting concept as follows.

The concept for the image setting includes seven items.

1. Providing a visual setting environment by use of GUI

2. Providing an input operation environment adopting pointing devices such as a mouse

3. Assigning such items to buttons as parameters to be selected

4. Assigning graphic images to buttons for visualization of buttons

5. Common relative position of controls in windows, the controls being shared among the windows

6. Online help call button and default parameter setting button arranged in each window for satisfactory operation environment

7. Layout of items in windows in which controls are arranged such that the operation is achieved from the upper-left corner to the lower-right corner of windows according to an operation flow assumed for a standard parameter setting operation

For these items, description will be given of object of each concept thus set and effect thereof.

Concept 1:

Using the GUI, when the sequential setting operation of the conventional system is combined with the grouping of the devices to be set, there can be progressively developed an operation environment which is similar to that of a random-access and in which setting values can be mutually referenced and changed in the setting group. Particularly, in a situation where parameters are mutually related to each other, the concept is very efficient for the operation.

Concept 2:

This is necessary to effectively utilize the GUI. For example, if the display operation is achieved such that in relation to an operation of depressing a button of a mouse, there is presented an image in which a button is also depressed in the screen, there is implemented a GUI which can be intuitively understood by the operator at once.

Concept 3:

This is also used to enhance efficiency of the GUI. In a case where the items to be selected is small in number, for example, where there are several items to be selected, if such parameters are assigned to buttons having a visual operability, there is developed a user interface in which relationships between numeric values and selection states are more intuitively recognized as compared with the case where the parameters are represented with numeric values or character strings.

Concept 4:

This concept is implemented by developing the concept 3. Namely, image patterns presenting visual characteristics of setting parameters are indicated on buttons to possibly minimize descriptive explanations so that the user intuitively appreciates functions of buttons, thereby decreasing loads imposed on the user to set parameters.

Concept 5:

This concept is provided to possibly integrate operability in a plurality of windows. Relative positions of buttons are integrally arranged in the windows so that the user operating with a pointing device such as a mouse is relieved from the load of troublesome operations, which reduces the number of errors in the operations and the operation time.

Concept 6:

This is disposed to lower the loads imposed on the user. In the conventional examples, the online help function has been positively incorporated into GUI screens only in a few cases, namely, the function is positioned as an additional function in the prior art. In this example, the function is positively disposed as a portion of the screen function in all windows. Moreover, a default setting button is arranged to provided a model of standard setting values, which minimizes a portion of the setting operation to be conducted by the user.

Concept 7:

Assuming a flow of processing to be executed by the user, there is arranged the operation flow to guide the user to naturally set parameters. In addition, parameters having a higher-level significance are disposed on the upper-left corner of the screen to enhance visibility thereof.

An example of implementation of the concepts above will next be described by reference to FIGS. 21, 22, and 24. In this connection, details of these diagrams will be described later, namely, only relationships thereof with the concepts above will now be described. In FIG. 21, a button 1220016 is different in shape from a button 1220017 and is designed to be visible when depressed. Such presentation of buttons is developed according to the concepts 1 and 2. Moreover, the buttons above are respectively associated with character strings NetWare and DOS as parameters, which is namely implemented according to the concept 3. Similarly, based on the concepts 1 to 3, eight buttons 122001 to 122008 and four buttons 122012 to 122015 are disposed. The concept 4 is representatively implemented as four buttons 121001 to 121004 of FIG. 21. Due to presentation of external characteristics on buttons, the operability thereof is improved. The concepts 5 and 6 are applied to the right portions of FIGS. 21, 22, and 24. In each pair of buttons 12020 and 123013, 122021 and 123014, 122022 and 123015, and 122023 and 123016, the constituent elements are associated with each other and are assigned with substantially the same function. Particularly, the buttons 122020 and 123013 are assigned with an online help call function and the buttons 122021 and 123014 are assigned with a default setting function. The concept 7 can be understood by establishing a correspondence between the flowcharts of FIGS. 11 and 12.

As described above, it can be appreciated that the seven concepts of the easy setting are effective to improve the operability for the user.

Subsequently, details of the following items will be described by reference to FIG. 8.

1. Relationships between screens of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Event-driven-like processing method to be initiated from menu

3. Concepts of upper-order and lower-order parameters according to classification thereof based on degree of significance thereof in install processing

4. Method of hierarchically assigning setting parameters based on classification of parameters

FIG. 8 shows relationships between the primary parameter setting windows supported by the file server installer (GUI section). As can be seen from this diagram, the installer has eight parameter setting windows 1021 to 1028, which are configured in a tree structure.

The window 1021 is used to set conditions for initiation, namely, there can be set three parameters including a machine type to be installed, the number of disks, and the number of LAN cards. These parameters designating the basic machine configuration are essential for the installation processing.

The window 1022 presents a menu from which three different windows can be called, namely, a window to set three parameters including a machine type to be installed, the number of disks, and the number of LAN cards, a window to read the contents of parameters beforehand set so as to send the contents to the file server installer, and a window to set the contents of the respective parameters.

The window 1023 can call a hardware window 1026 in which there can be set such higher-order parameters related to disks as a type of disk, the total capacity of all disks, a type of an operating system employed according to a softwarewise subdivision of disks, and a capacity of the operating system occupying in the disk. Moreover, a capacity not used in the area of the disks is displayed and lower-order parameters related to disks can be set. The higher-order parameters are indispensable to designate a name of product and a basic specification of an element machine connected to the machine to be installed. In contrast thereto, for the lower-order parameters, the setting values thereof need not be altered in an ordinary machine configuration; however, in a particular machine configuration, the setting values are required to be partially varied in conformity with the respective usages of the associated constituent units.

The window 1024 can call two windows. In one of the windows, there can be set the higher-order parameters associated with LAN cards such as a name for identifying a LAN card, a type thereof, and a contour of a cable used for the LAN connection. In the other one thereof, there can be set the other parameters related to LAN cards.

In the window 1025, there can be set three parameters indispensable to construct a NetWare network system, namely, a file server name, a network number in IPX, and a network number.

The window 1026 is disposed to set four lower-order parameters which are related to disks and which are necessary for a particular machine configuration, namely, an I/O port number, an interruption number, a memory address, and an insertion slot number.

In the window 1027, there are set five lower-order parameters which are associated with LAN cards and which are necessary for a particular machine configuration such as an I/O port number, an interruption number, a memory address, a DMA channel number, and an insertion slot number.

The window 1028 is used to set seven lower-order parameters which are related to disks and which are necessary for a particular machine configuration, namely, a frame time, an error retry count, a node number, and token ring parameters including a link station number, an SAP station number, a buffer count, and a buffer size.

Thanks to the screen layout of FIG. 8 and provision of the menu windows, the operator can set parameters, which have been set in a unique order in the conventional system, while referencing relationships therebetween. This remarkably facilitates the setting operation.

Moreover, establishing the correspondence between the classification of parameters such as higher-order and lower-order parameters and the tree structure of screens, there can be provided an installation parameter setting environment in which parameters are set in a hierarchic fashion, thereby reducing the number of operation steps of the user and the period of time necessary to set the parameters.

Referring now to FIG. 9, the following items will be described in detail.

1. Example of overall operation flow of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Example of order of setting parameters

FIG. 9 shows an example of the flow of operations achieved by the user according to the file server installer (GUI section).

In FIG. 9, frames or boxes 103001 to 103009 respectively correspond to windows appearing in programs of the file server installer (GUI section). Of these windows, nine windows excepting the window 103010 have already been explained as the windows configuring the tree structure of FIG. 8. Details thereof such as a constitution and a function will be described later.

The file sever installer automatically executes programs through four frames 103001, 103002, 103003, and 103010 in this order. In the most simplified flow, the processing is achieved along these frames.

In the frame 103001 of this flowchart, there is executed an initial setting operation to specify parameters designating fundamental constituent units of the machine to be installed.

In the frame 103002, a set of parameters beforehand registered are read from a parameter disk, which will be described later.

The frame 103003 is a menu frame for calling three processing frames 103004, 103006, and 103009.

In the frame 103010, parameters are saved onto the parameter disk, which will be described later.

In three frames 103004, 103006, and 103009, the user conducts selections to set parameters in the menu processing 103003 while paying attention to parameters to be set in each window. When the parameters are set only through a reading operation thereof in the frame 103001, the three frames above need not be called in some cases. The parameters set in the three processing sections are related to the higher-order parameters defined in the description of FIG. 8.

In the frame 103004, there are set parameters associated with disk devices, for example, a name of device.

The frame 103006 is disposed to set parameters associated with LAN cards, for example, a name of device.

In the frame 103009, there are set parameters associated with a network system, for example, a name of file server.

Processing 103005 is called from the frame 103004, whereas processing 103007 and 103008 is invoked from the frame 103006. These processing frames are used to set more detailed parameters, which are associated with the lower-order parameters defined in the description of FIG. 8.

In the frame 103005, lower-order parameters related to disks are set, for example, an I/O port number of disk device is specified.

The frame 103007 is disposed to set lower-order parameters associated with hardware of LAN cards, for example, an I/O port of LAN card device.

In the frame 103008, there are set lower-order parameters related to software of LAN card devices, for example, a frame type used in a program driving LAN cards.

Subsequently, the following items will be described in detail by reference to FIG. 10.

1. Example of an operation flow from a program initiation to a menu window presentation in the operations of the file server installer (GUI section)

2. Behavior of transition from the window 1021 to the window 1022 shown in FIG. 8

3. Parameter setting method without limitations related to operation procedure and number of operations in which parameters can be set according to mutual references therebetween

The frames 104001 and 104002 respectively correspond to the frames 1021 and 1022 of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 shows an example of a detailed operation flow associated with the transition from the frame 103001 to the frame 103002 of FIG. 9.

When the program is initiated, there immediately appears an initial setting window 104001. In this window, the user conducts a machine type setting 104003, a setting of the number of disks 104004, and a setting of the number of LAN cards 104005. When a setting termination 104006 is activated, the window 104001 disappears and then a menu window 104002 is displayed. Details of the operation method will be described later by reference to FIG. 20.

In the frame 104003, a type of machine is set for the machine to be installed. This is the fundamental parameter for the other parameters.

The frame 104004 is used to set the number of disks connected to the machine. This is the fundamental parameter for the other parameters related to disks.

In the frame 104005, the number of LAN cards connected to the machine is set. This is the fundamental parameter for the other parameters related to LAN cards.

When the frame 104006 is operated to terminate the setting operation, there occurs transition to the menu window 104002 in which the user can select a desired window for the subsequent setting operation.

In the example of operation flow shown in FIG. 10, three operations of the frames 104003 to 104005 can be achieved in any operation sequences. Namely, the same results are obtained even when the operation sequence is changed. Moreover, these operations may be repeatedly accomplished to alter the contents to be set. In other words, neither the operation sequence nor the number of operations is limited. These operations can be arbitrarily conducted until the setting end frame 104006 is initiated. The contents specified in the setting operations at initiation of the frame 104006 are assumed as the contents of parameters thereafter.

Referring next to FIGS. 11 to 13, description will be given of the following items in detail.

1. Example of operation flow from a menu window to a disk setting window in the operations of the file server installer (GUI section)

2. Behavior of transition from frame 1023 to frame 1026 in relation to the operation flow above and the windows of FIG. 8.

3. Parameter setting method without limitations related to operation procedure and number of operations in which parameters can be set according to mutual references therebetween

Frames 105001, 106001, and 107001; frames 105002, 106002, and 107002; and frames 105003, 106003, and 107003 respectively correspond to the frames 1022, 1023, and 1026 of FIG. 8. By reference to three screen images of FIGS. 11 to 13, description will be given in details of an example of operation flow associated with the change from the step 103003 to the step 103005 of FIG. 9. Namely, examples of processing procedures conducted by the user for transition from the window 1022 to the window 1023, for transition from the window 1023 to the window 1026, and for transition from the window 1026 to the window 1022 will be described by reference to FIGS. 11, 12, and 13, respectively.

Referring now to FIG. 11, a detailed description will be given of an operation to set higher-order parameters related to disk devices for the installation.

FIG. 11 shows a first-half portion of the detailed operation flow of the operation ranging from the step 103003 to the step 103004 of FIG. 9.

In a menu window 105001, when an operation is conducted to call a disk setting window 105002, there appears the window 105002.

In a case where a value equal to or more than two is set as the number of disks in the setting frame 104003, there is first selected a number assigned to the pertinent disk for the parameter setting operation (105004). The user assigns a number to each disk device in an arbitrary order. Thereafter, a type is set for the disk (105005) and the total capacity is set therefor (105006). In the frame 105005, the user specifies a name denoting a specification of the disk. According to the value of parameter set in this frame, items of parameters to be set in the window 105003 and initial values thereof are altered. In the frame 105006, the total capacity of the disk is set.

In a sequence of operations of frames 105007 to 105010, there are set a plurality of storage areas to be softwarewise controlled in the respective disks. First, a number of areas to be subdivided is set (105007). The number is specified by the user for the setting operation and is associated with a control number of the operating system controlling the hard disks. After the subdivision area number is set (1050079), a capacity is specified in the area (105008) and an operating system controlling the area is set (105009). To set a plurality of division areas, the operations of frames 105007 to 105009 are repeatedly accomplished as many as there are division areas.

In a window 105011 to call hardware setting window, lower-order parameters are set depending on the specification of disk designated in the frame 105005.

Referring next to FIG. 12, the operation to set lower-order parameters will be described in detail.

FIG. 12 shows in detail the operation flow of the steps 103004 to 103005 of FIG. 9.

When an initiation of hardware setting processing is selected in a disk setting window 106002, there appears a hardware setting window 106003.

In the window 106003, a disk number selection 106004 is effected, like in the case described by reference to FIG. 11, so as to identify a disk device to be set.

For the disk device, there are next set an I/O port number (106005), an interruption number (106006), and a slot number in which a card associated with the disk device is inserted (106007). Moreover, depending on the type of disk device specified in the frame 104005 of FIG. 10, the parameter setting operation may be skipped for some of the three parameters.

In a frame 106008, if the parameters have been set for all disk devices, the user selects a setting termination in a frame 106009 to finish the processing of frame 106003 and then control is returned to the frame 106002.

Next, referring to FIG. 13, description will be given of the other operations in the disk setting window.

FIG. 13 shows a last-half portion of the detailed operation flow related to the steps 103003 and 103004 of FIG. 9.

In the window 106009, when a selection is made to finish the setting operation, there is achieved according to the flow of FIG. 13 an operation subsequent to that described by reference to FIG. 11. In a frame 107004, if the setting operation has been completed for all disk devices, a setting finish frame 107005 is selected to terminate the processing of the window 107002, thereby passing control to the menu window 107001.

The processing related to the screen images shown in FIGS. 11 to 13 is collectively called a disk setting processing.

Details of the following items will next be described by reference to FIGS. 14 to 18.

1. Example of LAN card setting flow initiated from menu window in the operations of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Behavior of transition from window 1024 to windows 1027 and 1029 in association with the flow above and FIG. 8

3. Method of setting parameters without limiting operation procedure and number of operations according to mutual references therebetween

Frames 108001, 109001, 110001, 111001, and 112001; frames 108002, 109002, 110002, 111002, and 112002; and frames 108003 and 109003; and frames 110003, 111003, and 112003 respectively correspond to the steps 1022, 1024, 1027, and 1028 of FIG. 8. By reference to two screen images of FIGS. 14 and 15 and three images of FIGS. 16 to 18, examples of detailed operation flows will be described respectively corresponding to a flow related to the frames 103003, 103006, and 103007 and a flow associated with the frames 103003, 103006, and 103008. Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, there will be respectively described a transition from the window 1022 to the window 1024 and a transition from the window 1024 to 1027. By reference to FIGS. 16 and 17 and FIG. 18, description will be respectively given of a transition from the window 1024 to the window 1027 and an example of processing procedure conducted by the user in a transition from the window 1024 to the window 1022.

Referring now to FIG. 14, a detailed description will be given of the operation to set higher-order parameters related to LAN cards (boards) for the installation.

FIG. 14 shows a first-half portion of the detailed operation flow from the step 103003 to the step 103005 of FIG. 9.

When the user calls the LAN card setting window 108002 in the menu window 108001, there appears the window 108002.

In a case where a value equal to or more than two is set as the number of LAN cards in the window 104005 of FIG. 10, the user first selects a number assigned to an LAN card to which parameters are set (108004). The number is assigned to each LAN card device by the user in an arbitrary order for convenience.

Thereafter, a type of LAN card is set (108005), a name thereof is specified for identification when there exist a plurality of LAN cards (108006), and a shape of cable is set for connection the LAN card (108007). In the frame 108005, there is specified a name representing a specification of the LAN card unit. According to a value set as the type of LAN card, items for the parameter setting operation and initial values thereof vary in the window 108003. In the window 108006, a name including a maximum of 47 arbitrary alphanumeric characters excepting special symbols may be set as the name of LAN card device. In the frame 108007, the user select one of the cable shapes registered to the system in advance.

In the window 108008, according to the specification of LAN card specified in the window 108005, lower-order parameters associated with hardware are specified.

Next, the operation to set the lower-order parameters for hardware will be described in detail by reference to FIG. 15.

FIG. 15 shows details of the operation flow related to the steps 103006 to 103007 of FIG. 9.

When an initiation of hardware setting operation is selected in the window 109002, there appears a hardware setting window 109003.

In this window, the user selects a number assigned to an LAN card, like in the case of FIG. 14, thereby identifying the card unit for the subsequent parameter setting.

Thereafter, there are specified for the LAN card device an I/O port number (109005), an interruption number (109006), a slot number used to insert the card in the disk device (109007), and a memory address (109008). These four items may be specified in an arbitrary sequence. Moreover, depending on the type of LAN card device designated in the window 108005 of FIG. 14, all of the three parameters need not be necessarily set.

In a window 109009, if the operation has been completed for all card units, a setting end is selected in a window 109010 to terminate the processing of the window 109003, thereby passing control to the window 109002. Namely, control returns to the flow of FIG. 14 and then transfers to the flow shown in FIG. 16 to continue the processing.

Subsequently, a flow from the call of the protocol setting to the end of LAN card setting will be described by referring to FIG. 16.

In a window 110004, the user calls a window in which lower-order LAN card parameters related to the protocol are specified. The operation flow of this window will be described later.

After returning from the window 110003, if it is detected that there does not exists any LAN card for which parameters are to be set (110005), a setting end is selected in a window 110006 to terminate the processing so as to pass control to a menu window 110001.

Referring next to FIGS. 17 and 18, description will be given in detail of the operation to set the lower-order parameters associated with the protocol.

FIGS. 17 and 18 show details of the operation flow from the step 103006 to the step 103008.

When an initiation of the protocol setting operation is selected in an LAN card setting window 111002, there is displayed a protocol setting window 111003.

In this window, like in the case of FIG. 14, there is selected an LAN card number to identify an LAN card device for the subsequent operation.

Thereafter, the user sets a frame type used by software driving LAN cards (111005), a number of retries at an occurrence of a packet communication error (111006), an address employed when a plurality of file servers are disposed in an identical network (111007), an address of link station adopted in the token-ring network (111008), an address of station of service access point (SAP, 111009), a number of buffers utilized for packet communications (111010), and a size thereof (111011). These seven parameters may be specified in an arbitrary order. In addition, depending on the type of LAN card device set in the window 108005 of FIG. 14, all of these parameters need not be necessarily specified.

In the window 112004, if the setting operation has been finished for all card devices, a setting termination is selected in a window 112005 to complete the processing of the window 109003, thereby passing control to the window 109002. Returning to the flow of 16, the processing of LAN card setting is ended as describe above.

The processing described in conjunction with the screen images respectively of FIGS. 14 to 18 will be collectively called an LAN card setting operation.

Referring now to FIG. 19, the following items will be described in detail.

1. Example of operation flow from the menu window to the system setting window in operations of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Behavior of transition from window 1022 to window 1025 of FIG. 8 in relation to the flow above

3. Method of setting parameters without limitation of operation procedure and number of operations with mutual reference between parameters

Windows 113001 and 113002 respectively correspond to the windows 1022 and 1025 of FIG. 8. Referring to FIG. 19, description will be given of an example of detailed operation flow related to a flow from the window 103003 to 103009 of FIG. 9.

In the menu of the window 113001, when the user selects a system setting operation, there is presented a system initiation screen 113002. In this window, there are set a file server name (113003), a network number in IPX (113004), and a network number (113005). When a setting termination 113006 is activated, the window 113002 is finished and the menu window 113001 is restored.

In the window 113003, the user sets a name identifying the file server for the operation after the installation.

In the window 113004, there is denoted a network number allocated to the file server for the IPX protocol.

In the window 113005, a network number is set for a connection of the file server.

When an end of setting is specified in the window 113006, control is passed to the menu window 113002.

The operation flow of FIG. 19 has been described only as an example, namely, the operations in the windows 113003 to 113005 may be conducted in an arbitrary sequence. Moreover, these operations may be executed as many times as necessary to alter the contents of the setting parameters. That is, the sequence of the operations above and the number thereof are not limited. These operations can be freely effected until the operation of the window 113006 is executed. The contents of setting values obtained when the window 113006 is initiated are assumed as the contents of parameters in the subsequent processing.

Referring next to FIG. 20, the following items will be described in detail.

1. Items to be set in program initiation from screens of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Modes of input interface supported to set the items

3. Reasons for determining interface modes for the interface

FIG. 20 shows a screen of initial setting of the file server installer (GUI section). The operation flow associated with the screen has already been described in conjunction with FIG. 10.

As already described by reference to FIG. 10, the user sets three parameters in the screen of FIG. 20, namely a machine type for the installation, the number of disk units connected, the number of LAN cards disposed.

A set including a frame 120001 and a button 120002 is called a combination or combo box. The frame 120001 is disposed to set a type of machine to be installed so as to present therein the value of the specified machine in the form of a character string. When the button 120002 is depressed, there appears in the frame 120001 a list of parameters to be selected. The configuration of combo box has been adopted in the machine type setting operation for the following reasons. Since several character strings are possible as parameters in the frame 120001, the selecting form of the list thereof is quite efficient for the operation.

A frame 120003 and buttons 12004 and 12005 form a set for an input operation. The frame 12003 is used to specify a numeric value representing the number of disks such that the designated numeric value is displayed therein. The allowable value is an integer ranging from one to eight, namely, other values are to be rejected. To alter the values in the frame 120003, the user inputs another value directly from the keyboard or by use of the add button 120004 or the subtract button 120005. When the button 12004 is clicked once, the value set to the frame 120003 is incremented by one. Moreover, the button 120004 has a repeat function and hence when this button is kept clicked for several seconds, the repeat function is automatically effected to continuously increase the numeric value. In either case, since the value to be set to the frame 120003 is restricted by a limit value, the value is prevented from exceeding the limitation. Namely, when the value in the frame 120003 is identical to the limit value, the function of the button 120004 is nullified to be ineffective for the operation. When the subtract button 120005 is clicked one, the value set to the frame 120003 is decremented by one. Furthermore, the button 120005 has a repeat function and hence when this button is kept clicked for several seconds, the repeat function is automatically effected to continuously decrease the numeric value. In either case, when the value in the frame 120003 is equal to a lower limit value, the function of the button 120004 becomes to be ineffective for the operation. The frame with add and subtract buttons is disposed for the following reasons. When setting a numeric value, the user can conduct a consecutive alteration of the numeric value in addition to an input operation from the keyboard, thereby improving operability for the user.

A group including a frame 120006 and buttons 12007 and 12008 develops a similar function. The frame 120006 is used to set therein the number of LAN cards with an integer ranging from one to six. The buttons 120007 and 12008 are respectively associated with the buttons 120004 and 120005 to respectively increment and decrement the value in the frame 120006.

A button 120009 is disposed to select an end of setting operation. When this button is activated, the window of FIG. 20 is cleared to present a window of FIG. 121, which will be described later.

Referring now to FIG. 21, the following items will be described in detail.

1. Items to be set or selected in menu window of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Functions of parameter file supported only in menu window

3. Modes of input interface supported to set items 1 and 2

4. Reasons for determining interface modes to support interface above

FIG. 21 shows a window of the file server installer (GUI section) presenting menu functions as a central portion of the programs and input and output functions of the parameter file. According to functions of the menu window, other windows are called to set various parameters in detail, parameters set in the initial setting window of FIG. 20 are altered, registered parameters are read from the parameter file, and parameters completely set are registered thereto.

A button 121001 is disposed to call a window to set items related to disks, which will be described by reference to FIG. 22. When this button is clicked, a disk setting window of FIG. 22 is displayed in a pop-up form in the menu window of FIG. 21.

A button 121002 is used to call a window to set items associated with LAN cards, which will be described in conjunction with FIG. 24. When this button is effected, an LAN card setting window of FIG. 24 is displayed in a pop-up form in the menu window of FIG. 21.

A button 121003 is disposed to call a window to set items associated with a network system, which will be described in conjunction with FIG. 27. When this button is activated, a system setting window of FIG. 27 is presented in a pop-up form in the menu window of FIG. 21.

A button 121004 is reserved for a future use. However, in a future expansion of the system in which optional functions are to be supported, this button will be assigned with a function to call a window for the options in the menu window in a pop-up form like in the case of the button 121001 or the like.

A button 121005 is used to call an online help function. In the present stage, since neither the online help system nor the document for the help system have been completely prepared, this button is ineffective. According to a plan of development in the future, the online help system and the document will be prepared. Since there does not exist any technological problem at the present point of time, the development will be easily implemented.

A frame 121007 is related to the same parameters as those of the combo box constituted with the frame 12001 and the button 120002, namely, there is specified a machine type for the installation. Since control cannot return to the initial setting window of FIG. 20 directly from FIG. 21, this function is disposed to correct the contents set in the initial setting window.

A combo box 121008 is utilized to read existing parameters or parameters beforehand created. In this frame, when the user selects one of the file server names presented in a list, a set of parameters associated with the file server name are read from the parameter file. Moreover, when the user selects also an items of fundamental values in the frame, there is set a group of default parameters beforehand incorporated in the program. The control mode of the combo box 12008 is disposed for the following reasons. The number of groups of registered parameters is unknown to the user. The control mode enables the user to select an desired one of the plural groups presented in a list. Details of the parameter read operation will be described later by reference to FIG. 30.

A reference numeral 121009 indicates a combo box similar to that denoted by numerals 12003 to 12005 of FIG. 20 in which the same parameters can be used to set the number of disks connected to the machine to be installed. Since control cannot be directly returned to the initial setting window of FIG. 20, this function is provided to correct the contents set therein.

A frame 121011 is similar to the combo box including constituent elements 120006 to 120008 of FIG. 20 in which the same parameters can be specified to set the number of LAN cards of the machine for the installation. Since control cannot be directly returned to the initial setting window of FIG. 20, this function is provided so that the contents set therein are corrected.

A button 121011 is used to select an end for the setting operation of parameters in the file server installation. When this button is selected, in order to register the parameters thus set in the memory to the parameter file, a window for confirming the setting end (FIG. 32) is displayed in the window of FIG. 21 in a pop-up fashion. Details of the parameter registration will be described later. In the setting end window, when the parameter registration is instructed and the parameters are accordingly registered to the file, the operation of the menu window is finished and then the file server installer is terminated.

A button 121012 is disposed to interrupt the parameter setting of the file server installation to select termination of the file server installer (GUI section). When the button is activated, a window for confirming the interruption of setting (FIG. 29) is presented in the window of FIG. 21 in a pop-up manner. When an end of setting is instructed in the setting interruption window, control is returned to the menu window. Thereafter, the operation of the menu window and then the file server installer are finished.

Frames 121005, 121011, and 121012 are arranged at the same relative positions in the respective windows according to the easy setting concepts 5 and 6. Moreover, based on the easy setting concept 7, the buttons 121001 to 121003 are disposed in a direction from the left to the right in the window according to the standard operation flow assumed in the development stage. Four controls 121006 to 121010 are regarded as auxiliary setting frames and hence are not included in the arrangement according to the standards above.

Next, the following items will be described in detail by reference to FIG. 22.

1. Items to be set and/or to be selected in disk setting window of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Input interface modes provided to set items above

3. Reasons for determining interface modes to support the interface

FIG. 22 shows a window of the file server installer (GUI section) to set higher-level parameters for hard disks. The hard disk setting window provides functions to set higher-level parameters and to call setting windows to specify associated lower-level parameters in detail. This window corresponds to the portions described in conjunction with FIGS. 11 and 13.

Eight buttons 122001 to 122008 are disposed to specify the number assigned to the disk device for the setting operation, which has been described in conjunction with the frame 105004 of FIG. 11. These buttons relate to the parameter expressing the number of disks set in the frame 120003. Each button represents a numeric character corresponding to the disk device number. When either one thereof is clicked, the following parameters can be set for the disk device thus indicated. In any situation, only one of the eight buttons is in the selected state. In the example of FIG. 22, a value of three is set by the button 12003 and hence only the buttons 122001 to 122003 are effected. Of these buttons, only the button 122001 representing one is in the selected state. Consequently, it is considered that the parameters set by the controls are associated with the disk device 1. As above, since only the buttons of parameters which can be selected by the user are effective, there is obtained a setting environment having a high visibility, i.e., the operator can easily understand the setting parameters based on the visual images.

A combo box 122009 is used to set a type of hardware specification of the disk device associated with the number set to the selected state by the buttons 122001 to 122008. From the items which can be set for parameters specified by the button, the user selects a type of the pertinent disk devices. Furthermore, assuming a case of addition of disk types to be supported by the system, there may be selected a type "See Vendor" equivalent to "others". When the disk type is changed in the frame 122009, the other setting values are set to default parameters of the type.

A combo box 122010 is disposed to set the total physical capacity of the disk device in megabytes (MB). The reason for provision of this box is that the physical capacity of disk device is discrete in general and a continuous change in the capacity is considered to be unsuitable for the operation.

A button 122011 is used to call a window of FIG. 23 in which lower-order hardware parameters are set for the disk device.

Buttons 122012 to 122015 are disposed to set a softwarewise subdivision of the total physical capacity of the disk device set in the frame 122010. The respective buttons are effective and either one thereof is in the selected state in any case. In the file server installation, the disk can be subdivided into up to four areas. For each area, an operating system controlling the area and a capacity of the area are required to be set. For this purpose, a numeral assigned to the control area is specified by the four buttons.

Buttons 122016 to 122017 are arranged to set an operating system to control the subdivided area of the disk. There are supported two operating systems, namely, NetWare and MS-DOS (registered trade mark of the Microsoft Inc.). These buttons become to be effected depending on the capacity of the divided area denoted by a frame 122018. The button 122016 is effective when the value of the frame 122018 is 30 or more; whereas, the button 122017 is valid when the setting value is four or more.

The frame 122018 is associated with add and subtract buttons to set a capacity of the subdivided area. A numeric value is directly set in the box or by use of the buttons in megabytes (MB). The specifiable value ranges from 0 to an upper-limit of capacity determined as the difference between the total capacity and that already set for other divided areas.

In a frame 122019, there is displayed a disk capacity reserved for the remaining subdivision area. The user cannot set any numeric value therein. The value in this frame is computed as the discrepancy between the total disk capacity and that already set for other divided areas.

A reference numeral 122020 designates a button for calling a help system disposed according to the image setting concepts.

A numeral 122021 denotes a button for setting default values arranged in accordance with the easy setting concepts. When the button is activated, setting values respectively of the frames 122009, 122010, 122016, 122017, and 12018 are set as parameters according to the standard system configuration assumed. In addition, the values of lower-order parameters to be set in the windows called from the window 122011 are set as default parameters.

A button 122022 is used to select an end of setting operation in the disk setting window. When the button is selected, while the parameters thus set are kept remained in the memory, the operation of the window is terminated, thereby passing control to the menu window.

A button 122023 is disposed to interrupt the parameter setting operation for the disk so as to return control to the menu window. When the button is effected, a window to confirm the interruption of the setting operation (FIG. 29) is displayed in the window of FIG. 22 in a pop-up manner. When an assertion is inputted in the window, control is transferred to the menu window. When a cancellation is instructed, control is passed to the disk setting window.

The controls 122020 to 122023 are arranged at the same relative positions in the respective windows according to the easy setting concepts 5 and 6. Moreover, based on the easy setting concept 7, the control frames and buttons are disposed in a direction from the left to the right in each window according to the standard operation flow assumed in the development stage.

Referring next to FIG. 23, the following items will be described in detail.

1. Items to be set and selected in disk hardware setting windows in screens of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Modes of input interface supported to set items above

3. Reasons for deciding interface modes to provide the interface

FIG. 23 is a window to set lower-order parameters for disks in screens of the file server installer (GUI section). In the setting window, there are provided functions to set lower-order parameters. This window is associated with the portion of the operation flow described by reference to FIG. 12.

Eight buttons 123001 to 123008 are disposed to set a number assigned to the disk device for the setting operation, which has been described by reference to the frame 106004 of FIG. 12. These buttons are related to the parameter denoting the number of disks set in the frame 120003. Each button is provided with a numeric character corresponding to the number assigned to the disk device. When either one thereof is clicked, there is set a parameter for the disk device associated with the numeric character as follows. In any situation, only one of the eight buttons is in the selected state. FIG. 23 shows an example in which the value set in the window 12003 is two and hence only three buttons 123001 to 123003 are valid. Since the button 123001 indicating a value "1" is selected, the parameters represented by the setting controls are assumed to be related to the disk device 1. As above, since only the buttons corresponding to available parameters are set to be effective, there is obtained a visually facilitated operating environment.

A reference numeral 123009 denotes a box for displaying therein a type of hardware specification of the disk device associated with the number in the selected state. In this case, neither the setting nor the alteration of the type parameter can be achieved.

A numeral 123010 indicates a combo box to set a port number allocated to the disk device. Only the values which can be set according to the disk type presented in the frame 123009 are displayed as selection items in a list. The parameter setting may be dispensed with depending on the disk type. In such a case, an indication "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the control is invalidated.

A numeral 123011 indicates a combo box to set a hardware interruption number allocated to the disk device. There are displayed as selection items in a list only the values which can be set according to the disk type presented in the frame 123009. The parameter setting may be dispensed with depending on the disk type. In such a case, an indication "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the control is invalidated.

A numeral 123012 designates a combo box to set a slot number for installation of an extended card of the disk device. Only the values which can be set according to the disk type presented in the frame 123009 are displayed as selection items in a list. The parameter setting may be skipped depending on the disk type. In such a case, an indication "Setting Unnecessitated" is displayed and the control is nullified. The example of FIG. 23 is of this case.

A numeral 123013 stands for a button to call a help system disposed according to the easy setting concepts.

A numeral 123014 denotes a button to set default values arranged in accordance with the easy setting concepts. When this button is clicked, the setting values respectively of the frames 123010 to 123012 are set as default parameters corresponding to the disk type of the window 123009.

A numeral 123015 indicates a button to select termination of the setting operation in the hardware setting window for disk devices. When the button is selected, while keeping the specified parameters remained in the memory, the system terminates the operation of the hardware setting window and passes control to the disk setting window.

A numeral 123016 designates a button to interrupt the setting operation of hardware parameters for disks so as to return control to the disk setting window. When this button is activated, a window to confirm the interruption of setting (FIG. 29) is displayed in the window of FIG. 23 in a pop-up fashion. When an O.K. button is depressed in the window, control is transferred to the disk setting window. When a cancel button is effected, control is returned to the hardware setting window.

The controls 123013 to 123016 are disposed at the same relative positions in the respective windows according to the easy setting concepts 5 and 6. Moreover, in accordance with the concept 7, the controls are arranged along a direction from the left to the right in the windows based on the standard operation flow assumed in the system developing stage.

Next, the following items will be described in detail by reference to FIG. 24.

1. Items to be set and selected in LAN card setting windows of the screens for file server installer (GUI section)

2. Mode of input interface supported to set the items

3. Reasons for deciding interface modes for interface supported

FIG. 24 shows a window for setting therein higher-order parameters for LAN cards in screens of the file server installer (GUI section). In this window, there are provided functions to set higher-order parameters and to call windows to set detailed lower-order parameters. The window is associated with a portion of the operation flow described by reference to FIGS. 14 and 16.

Six buttons 124001 to 124006 are disposed to specify a number of LAN card unit for the setting operation, which has been described in conjunction with the window 108004 of FIG. 14. The buttons are associated with parameters of the number of LAN cards set in the frame 120006. Each button is provided with a numeric character corresponding to the number of the LAN card device. When either one thereof is clicked, there is set a parameter for the LAN card unit associated with the numeric character as follows. In any situation, only one of the six buttons is in the selected state. FIG. 24 shows an example in which the value set in the window 120003 is three and hence only three buttons 124001 to 124003 are valid. Since the button 124001 indicating a value "1" is selected, the setting parameters represented by the setting controls are assumed to be related to the LAN card unit 1. As above, only the buttons corresponding to available parameters are set to be effective; consequently, there is implemented a visually facilitated operating environment.

A numeral 124007 denotes, when a plurality of LAN card units are employed, a card name including up to 47 alphanumeric characters arbitrarily selected to identify each LAN card.

A numeral 124008 indicates a combo box to set a type of hardware specification for the LAN card unit corresponding to the number selected. In this case, the user can select one of the items available for the parameter of machine type set by the button 12001. Moreover, assuming a case of addition of LAN card types to be supported, the user may select a type "See Vendor" equivalent to "Others". When the type setting is changed for the LAN card by the button 124008, the other setting values are altered to default values of the type thus set.

Numerals 124009 and 124010 designate selection buttons to select a specification of cable for the connection between the LAN card unit and a network. Either one thereof can be depressed at a time. In addition, depending on the type parameter of the frame 124008, the cable contour is uniquely decided. In such a case, these buttons are invalidated.

A numeral 124011 stands for a button to call a window of FIG. 24 for hardware setting in which lower-order parameters are set for the LAN card.

A numeral 124012 indicates a button to call a window of FIG. 25 for protocol setting so as to set a communication protocol for the LAN card.

A numeral 124013 denotes a button to call a help system disposed according to the easy setting concepts.

A numeral 124014 designates a button to set default values prepared in accordance with the easy setting concepts. When the button is activated, the setting values of the frames 124007 to 124010 are set to parameters according to the standard machine configuration assumed. Moreover, values of lower-order parameters to be specified in the window 124011 are also set to default parameters at the same time.

A numeral 124015 stands for a button to select termination of the setting operation in the LAN card setting window. When the button is selected, while retaining the specified parameters in the memory, the system finishes the operation of the window and passes control to the menu window.

A numeral 124016 is a button to interrupt the parameter setting for LAN cards so as to return control to the menu window. When the button is effected, a window to confirm the setting interruption (FIG. 29) is displayed in the window of FIG. 24 in a pop-up manner. When an O.K. button is depressed in this window, control is returned to the menu window. When a cancel button is activated, control is transferred to the LAN card setting window.

The controls 124013 to 124016 are arranged in the same relative locations of the respective windows according to the easy setting concepts 5 and 6. Furthermore, in accordance with the easy setting concept 7, the controls are disposed along a direction from the left to the right in the windows based on the standard operation flow assumed in the development stage.

Subsequently, the following items will be described in detail by referring to FIG. 25.

1. Items to be set and selected in hardware setting windows for LAN cards in the screens of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Mode of input interface supported to set the items

3. Reasons for deciding interface modes for interface supported

FIG. 25 shows a window for setting therein lower-order parameters for hardware of LAN cards in screens of the file server installer (GUI section). In this window, there is provided a function to set lower-order parameters. The window is associated with a portion of the operation flow described by reference to FIG. 15.

Six buttons 125001 to 125006 are disposed to specify a number of LAN card unit for the setting operation, which has been described in conjunction with the window 109004 of FIG. 15. The buttons are associated with parameters of the number of LAN cards set in the frame 120006. Each button is provided with a numeric character corresponding to the number of the LAN card device. When either one thereof is clicked, there is set a parameter for the LAN card unit associated with the numeric character as follows. In any situation, only one of the six buttons is in the selected state. FIG. 25 shows an example in which the value set in the window 120003 is two and hence only two buttons 125001 to 125002 are valid. Since the button 125001 indicating a value "1" is selected, the setting parameters represented by the setting controls are assumed to be related to the LAN card unit 1. As above, only the buttons corresponding to available parameters are set to be effective; consequently, there is implemented a visually facilitated operating environment.

A numeral 125007 denote a frame to present therein a type of hardware specification for the LAN card unit corresponding to the selected number in the frames 124001 to 125006. In this case, it is impossible to set or to alter the type parameter.

A numeral 125008 indicates a combo box to set a port number allocated to the LAN card unit. Only the values available for the type of LAN card presented in the frame 125007 are displayed as selection items in a list. In a case where the parameter need not be set depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the box is set as an ineffective control.

A numeral 125009 indicates a combo box to set a hardware interruption number for the LAN card unit. Only the values available for the type of LAN cards presented in the frame 125007 are displayed as selection items in a list. In a case where the parameter can be dispensed with depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the function of this box is nullified.

A numeral 125010 indicates a combo box to set a memory address range allocated to the LAN card unit. Only the values available for the type of LAN card presented in the frame 125007 are displayed as selection items in a list. In a case where the parameter setting can be skipped depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the function of this box is nullified.

A numeral 125011 denotes a combo box to set a DMA channel number allocated to the LAN card unit. Only the values available for the type of LAN card presented in the frame 125007 are presented as selection items in a list. In a case where the parameter can be dispensed with depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the function of this box is nullified. In the example of FIG. 25, the setting operation need not be conducted.

A numeral 125012 indicates a combo box to set a slot number for insertion of an LAN card of the LAN card unit. Only the values available for the type of LAN card presented in the frame 125007 are presented as selection items in a list. In a case where the parameter need not be specified depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the function of this box is nullified. This is the case of the example of FIG. 25.

A numeral 125013 stands for a button to call a help system disposed according to the easy setting concepts.

A numeral 125014 denotes a button to set default values according to the easy setting concepts. When the button is clicked, the setting values in the windows 125010 to 125012 are set to default parameters associated with the LAN card type presented in the window 125009.

A numeral 125015 is a button to select termination of the operation setting in the hardware setting window for LAN cards. When the button is selected, while retaining the specified parameters in the memory, the system finishes the operation of the hardware setting window for LAN cards and then passes control to the LAN card setting window.

A numeral 125016 designates a button to interrupt the setting operation of hardware parameters for LAN card so as to return control to the LAN card setting window. When this button is activated, the window to confirm the interruption of setting (FIG. 29) is displayed in the window of FIG. 25 in a pop-up fashion. When an O.K. button is depressed in the window, control is transferred to the LAN card setting window. When a cancel button is effected, control is returned to the window for setting hardware of LAN cards.

The controls 125013 to 125016 are disposed at the same relative positions in the respective windows according to the easy setting concepts 5 and 6. Moreover, in accordance with the concept 7, the controls are arranged along a direction from the left to the right in the windows based on the standard operation flow assumed in the system developing stage.

Next, the following items will be described in detail by reference to FIG. 26.

1. Items to be set and selected in windows to set protocol for LAN cards in screens of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Mode of input interface supported to set the items

3. Reasons for deciding interface modes for interface supported

FIG. 26 shows a window for setting therein lower-order parameters of protocol for LAN cards in screens of the file server installer (GUI section). In this window, there are provided functions to set lower-order parameters. The window is associated with a portion of the operation flow described by reference to FIGS. 17 and 18.

Six buttons 126001 to 126006 are disposed to specify a number assigned to the LAN card unit for the setting operation, which has been described in conjunction with the window 111004 of FIG. 17. The buttons are associated with parameters of the number of LAN cards set in the frame 120006. Each button is provided with a numeric character corresponding to the number assigned to the LAN card device. When either one thereof is clicked, there is set a parameter for the LAN card unit associated with the numeric character as follows. In any situation, only one of the six buttons is in the selected state. FIG. 26 shows an example in which the value set in the window 120003 is two and hence only two buttons 126001 to 126002 are valid. Since the button 126001 indicating a value "1" is selected, the setting parameters represented by the setting controls are assumed to be related to the LAN card unit 1. As above, only the buttons corresponding to available parameters are set to be effective; consequently, there is implemented a visually facilitated operating environment.

A numeral 126007 denotes a box to present therein a type of hardware specification for the LAN card unit corresponding to the number indicated by one of the buttons 126001 to 126006. In this case, it is impossible to set or to alter the type parameter.

A numeral 126008 indicates a combo box to set a form of packet header employed by the LAN card unit for packet communications. Only the values available for the type of LAN card presented in the frame 126007 are displayed as selection items in a list.

A numeral 126009 designates a combo box with add and subtract buttons to specify the number of re-transmission processes to be achieved by the LAN card unit when a packet communication error occurs. The user may set a hexadecimal value ranging from 00 to FF. In a case where the parameter can be dispensed with depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the function of this box is nullified.

A numeral 126010 indicates a combo box with add and subtract buttons to specify, when the LAN card is connected to a network and has an identical network number, a network node address for specifying a network node to which the LAN card unit is connected. The user may set a value represented by 12 hexadecimal characters. In a case where the parameter setting need not be specified depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the function of this box is nullified.

A numeral 126011 denotes a combo box with add and subtract buttons to set a link station address when the LAN card unit is connected to a token ring. The user may set a hexadecimal value ranging from 00 to FF. In a case where the parameter can be dispensed with depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the function of this box is nullified. In the example of FIG. 26, the setting operation need not be conducted.

A numeral 126012 indicates a combo box with add and subtract buttons to set an address of a service access point (SAP) station when the LAN card unit is connected to a token ring. The user may set a hexadecimal value ranging from 00 to FF. In a case where the parameter need not be specified depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the function of this box is nullified. This is the case of the example of FIG. 26.

A numeral 126013 designates a combo box with add and subtract buttons to set a buffer count for packet communications when the LAN card unit is connected to a token ring. The user may set a value ranging from 00 to 02. In a case where the parameter need not be specified depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the function of this box is invalidated. FIG. 26 shows an example of this case.

A numeral 126014 indicates a combo box with add and subtract buttons to set a buffer size for packet communications when the LAN card unit is connected to a token ring. The user may set a hexadecimal value ranging from 0060 to FFFF. In a case where the parameter need not be specified depending on the LAN card type, a designation "Setting Unnecessitated" is presented and the function of this box is invalidated. FIG. 26 shows an example of this case.

A numeral 126015 stands for a button to call a help system disposed according to the easy setting concepts.

A numeral 126016 denotes a button to set default values according to the easy setting concepts. When the button is clicked, the setting values of the windows 126008 to 126014 are set to default parameters associated with the LAN card type presented in the window 125009.

A numeral 126017 is a button to select termination of the operation setting in the protocol setting window for LAN cards. When the button is selected, while retaining the specified parameters in the memory, the system finishes the operation of the pertinent window for LAN cards and then passes control to the LAN card setting window.

A numeral 126018 designates a button to interrupt the parameter setting operation for the protocol of the LAN card so as to return control to the LAN card setting window. When this button is activated, the window to confirm the interruption of setting (FIG. 29) is displayed in the window of FIG. 26 in a pop-up fashion. When an O.K. button is depressed in the window, control is transferred to the LAN card setting window. When a cancel button is effected, control is returned to the protocol setting window for LAN cards.

The controls 126015 to 126018 are disposed at the same relative positions in the respective windows according to the easy setting concepts 5 and 6. Moreover, in accordance with the concept 7, the controls are arranged along a direction from the left to the right in the windows based on the standard operation flow assumed in the system developing stage.

Next, the following items will be described in detail by reference to FIG. 27.

1. Items to be set and selected in system setting windows of screens of file server installer (GUI section)

2. Mode of input interface supported to set the items

3. Reasons for deciding interface modes for interface supported

FIG. 27 shows a window for setting therein parameters related to a network system in screens of the file server installer (GUI section). The window is associated with a portion of the operation flow described by reference to FIG. 19.

A numeral 127001 designates a box to set a file server name for identifying a file server in the network system. The user may set the name with up to 47 alphanumeric characters from the keyboard. When this window is first presented, there is displayed a file server name as a default item. The window is initiated in the waiting state to await a name inputted from the user.

A numeral 127002 indicates a box with add and subtract buttons to set as a network number in IPX a network number allocated to the file server. The user may set this value with eight characters in hexadecimal notation. The initial value is 80000001 not to be conflict with the network number in a frame 127003.

A numeral 127003 indicates a box with add and subtract buttons to set a network number for the connection of the file server. The user may set this value with eight characters in hexadecimal notation. The initial value is 00000001 not to be conflict with the network number in IPX in the frame 127002.

A numeral 127004 stands for a button to call a help system disposed according to the easy setting concepts.

A numeral 127005 denotes a button to set default values according to the easy setting concepts. When the button is clicked, setting values of the windows 127001 to 127003 are set to default parameters.

A numeral 127006 is a button to select termination of the operation setting in the system setting window. When the button is selected, while retaining the specified parameters in the memory, the system finishes the operation of the system setting window to return control to the menu window of FIG. 21.

A numeral 127007 designates a button to interrupt the system parameter setting so as to return control to the menu window. When this button is activated, the window to confirm the interruption of setting (FIG. 29) is displayed in the window of FIG. 27 in a pop-up fashion. When an O.K. button is depressed in the window, control is transferred to the system setting window. When a cancel button is effected, control is returned to the menu window of FIG. 21.

The controls 127004 to 127007 are disposed at the same relative positions in the respective windows according to the easy setting concepts 5 and 6. Moreover, in accordance with the concept 7, the controls are arranged along a direction from the left to the right in the windows based on the standard operation flow assumed in the system developing stage.

Referring next to FIG. 28, the following item will be described in detail.

1. Confirmation window to request change of parameter disk

FIG. 28 shows a window presented in the following situation. When the file server installer (GUI section) attempts to access a parameter file, a floppy disk (to be called a parameter disk herebelow) dedicatedly used to store parameters therein is missing in a floppy disk driving device (to be called a disk drive herebelow) and hence a request is issued to the user to install a parameter disk in the disk drive.

This window achieves the same operation not only for the file server installer (GUI section) but also for the client installer (GUI section) and the print server installer (GUI section). Moreover, the same messages are displayed in the respective operations. The window is presented in either one of the following cases.

1. File server installer (GUI section): When the initial setting window of FIG. 20 is desired to be changed to the menu window of FIG. 21, the parameter disk is missing in the disk drive.

2. Client installer (GUI section): When an initial setting window of FIG. 66 is desired to be changed to a menu window of FIG. 67, the parameter disk is missing in the disk drive.

3. Print server installer (GUI section): The parameter disk is missing in the disk drive when a program is desired to be initiated.

4. When a selection is made from a menu window of one of the installers to read setting values, the parameter disk is missing in the disk drive.

5. In a menu window of one of the installers, termination of a setting operation is selected and then a parameter write operation is instructed. In this situation, however, the parameter disk is missing in the disk drive.

6. When there occurs a case where the user is required to install the parameter disk in the disk drive.

Next, the following items will be described in detail by reference to FIG. 29.

1. Layout of window for confirming setting interruption displayed when the setting interruption is selected

2. Improvement of operability for user according to design of display timing of the window

FIG. 29 shows a window displayed to confirm a setting interruption in response to depression of a setting interruption button disposed in each window of FIGS. 21 to 27.

A numeral 131001 denotes a message to notify that the contents thus set are entirely invalidated by the setting interruption. A numeral 131002 indicates a button for the user to select continuation of processing, namely, to achieve the setting interruption. A numeral 131003 is a button to cancel the selection of setting interruption to restore the screen to the state before the selection of setting interruption.

When the processing to interrupt the setting operation is selected, the confirmation window is presented so as to prevent the results of parameter setting operation achieved by the user from being cleared by a wrong selection of the setting interruption.

To prevent the wrong operations caused by mistakes of the user, it is effective to dispose two kinds of confirmation window levels. In the first level, there is notified a warning to an operation error of the user, namely, an operation beyond limitation of specifications. This applies, for example, to a case where data is attempted to be saved onto a parameter disk without installing the parameter disk in the disk drive. In the second level, there is presented a warning associated with an operation as follows. For example, even when the operation conforms to the specification, if the result of processing makes it difficult to restore the original state, a second-level warning is issued. This is the case, for example, of the confirmation of the setting interruption processing of FIG. 29. In this case, a plurality of parameters are cleared and information thereof is lost. If the state before the clear operation is desired to be restored, the user is required to conduct again the operation once achieved prior to the clear operation. As above, for an operation causing a result which makes it impossible to automatically restore the original state, there is efficiently disposed a warning window like the window to confirm the setting interruption.

Subsequently, the following items will be described in detail by reference to FIG. 30.

1. Method of reading file to attain a set of parameters specified in windows shown in FIGS. 20 to 27

2. Details of confirmation window appearing in parameter reading operation

3. Improvement of operability for user according to design of timing of appearance of window

FIG. 30 is a window disposed to confirm a parameter reading operation when a set of parameters are specified according to a file server name in the value reading combo box 121008 of FIG. 21.

A reference numeral 132001 denotes a button to instruct a parameter reading operation and a setting operation associated with controls of the respective setting windows.

A numeral 132002 indicates a button to instruct an interruption of the parameter reading and a return to the menu window of FIG. 21.

A numeral 132003 is a message including a file server name specified in the frame 121008 requesting the user to confirm whether or not the user selection is correct.

A numeral 132004 is a message including a date and time of the last update of parameters associated with the file server name specified in the frame 121008 so as to request the user to confirm whether or not the user selection is appropriate.

Description will next be given of an outline of the operation flow of the parameter reading operation.

For a parameter specified by the user, the floppy disk exclusively storing therein parameters is accessed such that a retrieval is achieved through an index information file, which will be described later, according to a file server name to obtain a file name of the pertinent MS-DOS control, thereby opening and loading the file. In this operation, the format of the parameter file is converted into an internal expression of programs of the file server installer (GUI section). Thanks to the conversion, continuity and easy maintenance of the parameter file are guaranteed.

In this connection, also for the client and print server installers, when the operation to read setting values is conducted in the menu window, there appears a window for confirming the parameter reading operation, which is similar to the window of FIG. 30, so that the user confirms specified parameters.

Details of the following items will now be described by reference to FIG. 31.

1. Details of a confirmation window presented in parameter reading operation

2. Improvement of operability for user according to design of timing of appearance of windows

FIG. 31 is a window displayed when the parameter reading operation instructed in FIG. 30 is correctly finished.

A numeral 133001 stands for a button to notify the program that the user has confirmed a message denoting the termination of parameter reading.

A numeral 133002 is a message to present a file server name indicating a parameter obtained.

A numeral 133003 designates a window to confirm the end of loading operation.

Next, referring to FIG. 32, description will be given of the following items in detail.

1. Details of confirmation window presented in parameter registering operation when menu window operation is terminated

2. Improvement of operability for user according to design of timing when the window appears

FIG. 32 is a window displayed when the parameter registration is specified after the setting end is selected in the menu window of FIG. 21.

A numeral 134001 stands for a button to notify the parameter registration.

A numeral 134002 is a message to cancel the instruction of parameter registration and to pass control to the menu window of FIG. 21.

A numeral 134003 designates a window to display a file server name related to the parameters to be registered so as to confirm that the correct parameters are registered.

A numeral 134004 denotes a window to confirm the setting end operation.

Subsequently, the following items will be described in detail by reference to FIG. 33.

1. Method of writing in file a set of parameters specified in windows shown in FIGS. 20 to 27

2. Details of confirmation window appearing in parameter writing operation

3. Improvement of operability for user according to design of timing of window display

FIG. 33 is a window disposed for the user to confirm a parameter writing operation. This window is presented when the setting end button is selected in the frame 121011 of FIG. 21. Namely, during a registration and/or a write operation onto a parameter file before the end of operation of the window of FIG. 21, if there exists a parameter having the same file server name, the window is displayed for the user to confirm an overwriting operation in the file.

A reference numeral 135001 denotes a button to replace the contents of parameters set in the controls of the associated setting windows with the contents of existing files.

A numeral 135002 indicates a button to cancel the write operation of the parameter onto the existing file and to return control to the menu window of FIG. 21.

A numeral 135003 is a message presenting a file server name to be registered as a parameter in the file so as to request the user to confirm whether or not the user selection is correct.

A numeral 135004 is a message notifying a date and time of the last update of existing parameters associated with the specified file server name specified in the frame 121008 so as to request the user to confirm whether or not the user selection is correct.

Next, the following items will be described in detail by reference to FIG. 34.

1. Details of confirmation window appearing at end of parameter write operation

2. Improvement of operability for user according to design of timing of window display

FIG. 34 is a window appearing when a parameter write operation instructed in the window of FIG. 32 or 33 is normally terminated.

A reference numeral 136001 denotes a button to notify that the user has confirmed the message indicating the termination of parameter write operation. When this button is depressed, control is returned to the menu window of FIG. 21 and then the program execution is finished.

A numeral 136002 indicates a message presenting a file server name designating the parameter thus written.

A numeral 136003 designates a window to confirm the end of saving operation.

Description will now be given of a GUI program file server installer.

As shown in FIG. 35, this program 15000 includes a menu window program 191000, an initial setting window program 190000, a disk setting window program 192000, a disk hardware setting window program 193000, an LAN card setting window program 194000, and a program for LAN card hardware setting window 195000, a program of window for setting LAN card protocol 196000, a system setting window program 197000, a shared resource 152000, a shared program 153000, and shared data 151000.

In FIG. 35, eight programs shown in an outer area respectively correspond to windows of GUI screens according to a one-to-one correspondence. Namely, the menu window program 191000 corresponds to the menu window (FIG. 21), the initial setting window program 190000 to the initial setting window (FIG. 20), the disk setting window program 192000 to the disk setting window (FIG. 22), the program 193000 to the disk hardware setting window (FIG. 23), the program 194000 to the LAN card setting window (FIG. 24), the program 195000 to the LAN card hardware setting window (FIG. 25), the program 196000 to the protocol setting window (FIG. 26), and the system setting window program 197000 to the system setting window (FIG. 27).

Call operations between the respective blocks will now be described. In FIG. 35, a line with an arrowhead denotes a call operation. From the program 191000, there are called the programs 192000, 190000, 194000, and 197000. Moreover, from the program 192000, there is called the program 193000. The programs 195000 and 196000 are called from the program 194000.

In this connection, the shared resource 152000, the shared program 153000, and the shared data 151000 are commonly used by the other programs related to windows such as the programs 191000, 190000, 192000, 193000, 194000, 195000, 196000, and 197000.

Next, each block above will be described.

FIG. 36 shows the contents of the shared data 151000. The data 151000 is subdivided into seven large data groups, namely, disk information 151001, LAN card information 151002, system information 151003, a machine type 151034, a drive number being selected 151035, an area number being selected 151036, and an LAN card number being selected 151037.

The disk information 151001 is constituted with setting items for disks, namely, drive information 151004 (#1 to #8) and a number of drives 151005. The drive information 151004 includes a disk type 151006, a total disk capacity 151007, an I/O port number 151008, an interruption number 151009, a slot number 151010, and area information 151011 (#1 to #4). The area information 151011 includes an operating system (OS) 151012 and a reserved capacity 151013.

The LAN card information 151002 is formed of setting items for LAN cards, namely, LAN card information 151014 (#1 to #6) and a number of LAN cards 151015. The card information 151014 includes an identifier 151016, a type 151017, a cable type 151018, and I/O port number 151019, an interruption number 151020, a memory address 151021, a DMA channel number 151022, a slot number 151023, a frame type 151024, an error retry count 151025, a node number 151026, a link station 151027, an SAP station 151028, a buffer count 151029, and a buffer size 151030.

The system information includes such system setting items as a server name 151031, an IPX number 151032, and a network number 151033.

Next, the shared resource 152000 will be described. The resource 152000 is formed with such items to be used by the programs as bit maps, icons, dialog box screen data. FIG. 37 is a list of shared resources necessary to implement the file server GUI. A bit map for number selection button 152001 is a picture fixed onto a button to select one of the