An open network system for supporting input/output (I/O) operations for non-standard I/O devices are disclosed. The system includes a server coupled to a plurality of I/O devices through an open network and an extended open system protocol that supports communication with devices that...http://www.google.co.uk/patents/US5742845?utm_source=gb-gplus-sharePatent US5742845 - System for extending present open network communication protocols to communicate with non-standard I/O devices directly coupled to an open network 
