| abstract |
The invention relates to a service element (2, 15, 16) in dispersed systems in order to configure, service, update and optionally perform emergency functions on components in dispersed systems. The service element (2, 15, 16) detects new components and integrates said components into the system or provides information required for configuring. A software correction routine is optionally performed in the event of an error being detected by the service element (2, 15, 16) and occurring in software running on said components. The service element (2, 15, 16) loads new software for the components via communication means (4, 22, 24). When serious functional errors arise, the service element (2, 15, 16) contacts a service provider using communication means. |