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View Full Version : Odd DOS/386 ? regarding password protected proprietary app


ralph@nes
03-09-2007, 10:25 AM
Hello again!

I've been tasked with getting a laser etcher up and running in my company. This laser etcher was purchased used via auction about three years ago and never even powered up until today when I finally sat down and figured out the hardware interlocks that kept it from turning (given that it's a fairly powerful laser, the security measures are fairly tight).

Part of the security measure is this built-in OS with three levels of password security. Basically it's a DOS based OS running on an old 386 which is rackmounted in the case; I have access to CMOS and BIOS settings and can boot from the A: via boot disk if necessary. Program won't let you ctrl-c or exit to dos in any way unless you've entered a supervisor level password.

Any ideas on what to look for once I get into the C:? I do not have the original installation software for this unit so a wipe and reinstall is impossible. I don't imagine I'm going to find a simple 'USERNAMESANDPASSWORDS' ascII file that I can edit; clues on where to look to reset this thing so I can start over? Boss is over my shoulder wondering when this is going to run... Help!

Ralph
NES
Olean, NY

mjc
03-09-2007, 11:47 AM
I'd probably start by seeing if the manufacturer is still around/servicing the thing...do a Google search on it.

With embedded OS/apps like that, it may be the ONLY way to get it functioning again would be with a reload...

I'm pretty sure PrntRhd could comment on similar type machines...(hehe...;))

Sylvander
03-10-2007, 05:02 PM
If you can fit a CD-ROM drive, the "File Manager" [it has a nice GUI] on a bootable EBCD [linked below] would help you better browse the contents of the C: partition, including [folder/file] search capability.
To open a folder you double-click on it with the mouse cursor.

You can also use it to easily read/edit the text content of files.

1. How to make a free “Smart Boot Manager” floppy
http://www.pcguide.com/vb/showthread.php?t=41498
This makes it easier to boot a chosen drive [particularly the one holding the EBCD].

2. How to make a free EBCD bootable CD
http://www.pcguide.com/vb/showthread.php?t=41485
This has a number of useful utilities included including "Image" [for DOS, by Terabyte] & "File Manager".