Acer m3400(g) manual Viewing Bios checkpoints, Bootblock Initialization Code Checkpoints

Page 57

Checkpoints

A checkpoint is either a byte or word value output to I/O port 80h.The BIOS outputs checkpoints throughout bootblock and Power-On Self Test (POST) to indicate the task the system is currently executing. Checkpoint sare very useful in aiding software developers or technicians in debugging problems that occur during the pre- boot process.

Viewing BIOS checkpoints

Viewing all checkpoints generated by the BIOS requires acheckpoint card, also referred to as a POST card or POST diagnostic card. These are ISA or PCI add-in cards that show the value of I/O port 80h on a LED display. Checkpoints may appear on the bottom right corner of the screen during POST. This display method islimited, since it only displays checkpoints thatoccur after the video card has been activated.

Bootblock Initialization Code Checkpoints

The Bootblock initialization code sets up the chipset,memory, and other components before system memory is available. The following table describes the type of checkpoints that may occur during the bootblock initialization portion of the BIOS.

NOTE: Please note that checkpoints may differ between different platforms based on system configuration.Checkpoints may change due to vendor requirements,system chipset or option ROMs

from add-in PCI devices.

Checkpoint

Description

 

 

Before D0

If boot block debugger is enabled, CPU cache-as-RAM functionality is enabled at this point.

 

Stack will be enabled from this point.

 

 

D0

Early Boot Strap Processor (BSP) initialization like microcode update, frequency and other

 

CPU critical initialization. Early chipset initialization is done.

 

 

D1

Early super I/O initialization is done including RTC and keyboard controller. Serial port is

 

enabled at this point if needed for debugging. NMI is disabled. Perform keyboard controller

 

BAT test. Save power-on CPUID value in scratch CMOS. Go to flat mode with 4GB limit and

 

GA20 enabled.

 

 

D2

Verify the boot block checksum. System will hang here if checksum is bad.

 

 

D3

Disable CACHE before memory detection. Execute full memory sizing module. If memory

 

sizing module not executed, start memory refresh and do memory sizing in Boot block code.

 

Do additional chipset initialization. Re-enable CACHE. Verify that flat mode is enabled.

 

 

D4

Test base 512KB memory. Adjust policies and cache first 8MB. Set stack.

 

 

D5

Bootblock code is copied from ROM to lower system memory and control is given to it. BIOS

 

now executes out of RAM. Copies compressed boot block code to memory in right

 

segments. Copies BIOS from ROM to RAM for faster access. Performs main BIOS

 

checksum and updates recovery status accordingly.

 

 

D6

Both key sequence and OEM specific method is checked to determine if BIOSrecovery is

 

forced. Main BIOS checksum is tested. If BIOS recovery is necessary,control flows to

 

checkpoint E0. See Bootblock Recovery Code Checkpoints sectionfor more information.

 

 

D7

Restore CPUID value back into register. The Bootblock-Runtime interface module is moved

 

to system memory and control is given to it. Determine whether to execute serial flash.

 

 

D8

The Runtime module is uncompressed into memory. CPUID information is stored in memory.

 

 

D9

Store the Uncompressed pointer for future use in PMM. Copying Main BIOS into memory.

 

Leaves all RAM below 1MB Read-Write including E000 and F000 shadow areas but closing

 

SMRAM.

 

 

50

Chapter 4

Page 56 Page 58
Image 57
Page 56 Page 58
Contents Acer Aspire M3400G Service Guide Revision History Copyright Disclaimer Conventions Service Guide Coverage Table of Contents Chapter FeaturesOptical disk drive Hard disk driveGraphics card VedioOn-board connectors Rear I/O connectorsUSB ports Extension slotPower supply System BiosBlock Diagram System Components Front PanelComponent Rear Panel Specification Hardware Specifications and ConfigurationsProcessor IOS Hotkey ListSystem Memory Memory CombinationsAudio Interface Slot Memory Total MemorySata Interface Power ManagementUSB Port Environmental RequirementsDevice Standby Mode Power Management FunctionACPI support functionGlobal Standby Mode Suspend ModeSystem Utilities Cmos Setup UtilityNavigating Through the Setup Utility Entering Cmos setupParameter Description Setup Utility MenusProduct Information Parameter Description Option Standard Cmos FeaturesEnabled Advanced Bios FeatureAdvanced Chipset Features UMA Integrated PeripheralsPower Management Setup PC Health Status Frequency/Voltage Control Setting a supervisor password Bios Security FeaturesLoad Default Settings Save & Exit Setup Exit Without Saving Disassembly Requirements System DisassemblyPre-disassembly Procedure Removing the Side Panel Removing the Heat Sink Fan Assembly Page Removing the Processor Removing the Memory Modules Removing the VGA Card Removing the Mode Card Removing the Front Bezel Removing Rear USB Board Removing the Hard Disk Drive Page Removing the Optical Drive Removing Cables Removing the removable HDD bay Removing the Power Supply Lift the power supply module out of the chassis Removing the Mainboard Page System Troubleshooting Power System Check System External InspectionSystem Internal Inspection Beep Codes Viewing Bios checkpoints Bootblock Initialization Code CheckpointsCheckpoints System is waking from Acpi S3 state Checkpoint Description Bootblock Recovery Code CheckpointsChoose OK and press Enter key Bios RecoveryPlacement Jumper and Connector InformationLabel Description Setting Jumper Jumper SettingInternal header pin definition Jumper/Header Name Function Definition1SYSRECOVER Fpanel F1394LPT COM2 Jumper/Header Name Function Definition VCC 5VSYS KEYPin Signal Name USB Connectors StackedBlackVCCUSB0 IDE / Sata Audio Back Panel ConnectorsVGA PS2 COM FRU Field Replaceable Unit List Aspire M3400G Exploded DiagramAM350-ASSY Aspire M3400G Exploded DiagramAM351-ASSY Category Part Number Acer P/N Aspire M3400G FRU ListSempron ODD VGA DVI Hdmi VGA W/ATX BKT Rohs ATI HD4650 1GB DSUB/HDMI/DVI ATX Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Category Part Number Acer P/N Chapter

m3400(g) specifications

The Acer M3400(G) is a notable addition to Acer’s line of desktop computers, designed to deliver robust performance and impressive capabilities suited for both work and entertainment. With its sleek, modern design, the M3400(G) blends seamlessly into any office or home environment, appealing to a wide range of users.

One of the standout features of the Acer M3400(G) is its processing power. Equipped with AMD's cutting-edge processors, this desktop ensures efficient multitasking and quick response times. The M3400(G) is engineered to handle demanding applications, making it an excellent choice for professionals and gamers alike. The combination of a dual or quad-core architecture allows users to run multiple applications without experiencing slowdowns, ensuring a smooth user experience.

The graphics performance of the M3400(G) is also commendable. It often comes with integrated AMD Radeon graphics, which may be suitable for light gaming and multimedia tasks. Users can enjoy high-definition video playback and engage in casual gaming without significant performance degradation. For more demanding graphics applications, the desktop may also support discrete graphics cards, further enhancing its capabilities.

In terms of storage, the Acer M3400(G) offers various configurations, typically featuring a combination of HDD and SSD options. This hybrid approach maximizes both storage capacity and speed, allowing for quick access to files and applications while providing ample space for data storage. The ability to boot up quickly and load applications in a flash is a significant advantage for users.

Furthermore, the M3400(G) is equipped with ample connectivity options to cater to the needs of modern users. With USB 3.0 ports, HDMI output, and Ethernet connections, it ensures compatibility with a broad range of peripherals and devices. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to customize their setup or expand their functionality.

In addition to its technical features, the Acer M3400(G) also emphasizes energy efficiency. Designed with eco-friendly considerations, it consumes minimal power without sacrificing performance, making it a suitable option for environmentally conscious consumers.

In conclusion, the Acer M3400(G) stands out for its remarkable balance of performance, graphics capability, and energy efficiency. Whether for professional use, casual gaming, or everyday computing, this desktop offers features and technologies that cater to a wide array of user demands, making it a versatile and reliable choice in today's competitive market.
Top Page Image Contents