AMD Confidential

User Manual

November 21st, 2008

14 BIOS Developer’s Quick Start Guide

This section provides you with instructions on how to perform common tasks within the simulation environment. The tasks described in this section are likely to be of particular interest to BIOS developers. However, developers of other types of software will benefit as well, especially from tasks like logging CPU cycles and using the debugger.

14.1 Loading a BIOS Image

1.Move the BIOS ROM image into your Images directory.

2.Use “View→Show Devices” to show the Devices Window, shown in Figure 3-2on page 9.

3.Right-click on the system-BIOS memory device icon in the Device Window and select the “Configure Device” option on the Workspace Popup Menu (Figure 3-3on page 11).

4.Choose the “Memory Configuration” tab.

5.Enter the appropriate base address and size for your BIOS ROM.

6.Browse for your BIOS ROM image file. The browser will only show files that have a ROM or BIN filename extension.

7.Select the read-only option, unless the BIOS code will modify its image within the device.

8.For most BIOS ROM select the system BIOS ROM, memory-address masking, and memory is non-cacheable options.

9.Click OK to close the configuration dialog and accept the changes.

14.2 Changing DRAM Size

There are two ways to configure the simulated memory size. For generic memory size configuration in powers of two you can use the Memory Configurator, see Figure 14-1and for specific or non-symmetric DIMM configurations please follow the steps on page 168.

To open the Memory Configurator dialog click on the main menu item View and then choose Show Memory Configurator (View→Show Memory Configurator).

The Memory Configurator populates each DIMM device with two DIMMs of all identical size and type. It accounts for DDR and DDR2 and registered or unregistered memory types as required. The SPD files are loaded using the default path for SPD files “./Images/<spdfile>”.

Please be advised that memory configurations that are too large will slow down the simulation significantly and may also confuse some BIOS's.

Note: The public release of the simulator supports only up to four GB of simulated memory.

Chapter 14: BIOS Developer‟s Quick Start Guide

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4.4.5 specifications

AMD 4.4.5 is a robust version of the AMD software ecosystem that focuses on enhanced performance, stability, and efficiency for users relying on AMD processors and graphics cards. This iteration brings various features and technologies designed to optimize gaming, professional applications, and general computing tasks.

One of the standout enhancements in AMD 4.4.5 is the integration of Smart Access Memory technology, which allows the CPU to access the full graphics memory directly. This feature enhances data flow between the CPU and GPU, leading to improved frame rates and overall performance, especially in memory-intensive games. Users can experience a marked increase in gaming performance without the need for additional hardware upgrades.

Another significant feature introduced is the updated Radeon Software Adrenalin Edition. This software update encompasses optimizations for various games, ensuring that gamers can enjoy a seamless experience with the latest titles. The Adrenalin interface also provides features such as Radeon Chill, which helps reduce power consumption during less demanding scenes, and Radeon Anti-Lag, designed to minimize input lag and enhance responsiveness in competitive gaming.

Additionally, AMD 4.4.5 brings the latest drivers that include important performance enhancements and bug fixes that allow for greater system stability. Regular updates ensure that users have the best experience with their AMD hardware, and it significantly bolsters compatibility with the latest gaming titles and software applications.

AMD's Enhanced Sync technology offers users the ability to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering while delivering smooth gameplay. It dynamically synchronizes the refresh rate of the display with the frame rates produced by the GPU, improving the visual experience significantly.

With the introduction of FidelityFX Super Resolution, AMD continues to bolster its suite of technologies that enhance graphics quality and performance. This feature allows lower-resolution images to be upscaled effectively, making it easier for users to enjoy high-end visuals without taxing their hardware excessively.

In summary, AMD 4.4.5 represents a comprehensive update for users by integrating cutting-edge technologies that cater to a wide range of applications from gaming to content creation. With enhancements across the board, AMD reaffirms its commitment to providing high-performance solutions that keep pace with the ever-evolving technology landscape. Whether for gaming aficionados or professional creators, the capabilities offered in this version make it a significant milestone in the AMD software ecosystem.
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