Computer system having automatic registration for in-box configuration

Described is a computer system which can automatically provide its capabilities to a main computer without powering on to facilitate configuring the system in its shipping package. The computer system is coupled to a remote computer via a data communication link. The system includes a communication subsystem which is supplied with auxiliary power and is operative to detect when a valid communication link is established between the computer system and the main computer. After the detection the communication subsystem sends a first packet to the main computer via the communication subsystem. The first packet includes data which specifically identifies the computer system. When the communication link is coupled to the communication subsystem through the packaging and a power source is coupled to a power connector of the system through the packaging, the system is operative to send the first packet without powering on.