AMD Confidential

User Manual

November 21st, 2008

A Appendix

A.1 Format of Floppy and Hard-Drive Images

The floppy-disk format assumes a standard 1.44 Mbyte floppy disk, consisting of 80 cylinders, 2 heads, and eighteen 512-byte sectors per head (36 sectors per cylinder). The image file consists simply of each sector, starting with the first sector of the first cylinder on the first head, and proceeding sequentially through the last sector of the last cylinder on the second head. The total size of the image file is identical to the total capacity of a 1.44 Mbyte floppy disk, or 1,474,560 bytes.

The hard-disk image is formatted in a similar fashion, with the exception that the total number of cylinders, heads, and sectors per head varies. Because of this, the hard-disk image file contains a 512-byte header before the raw data. This 512-byte header is identical to the information provided by the drive in response to the ATA command "IDENTIFY". Following the 512-byte header is the data for each sector from the device. As with the floppy, the data starts with the first sector of the first cylinder on the first head. Unlike floppies, however, the image file may end before the last sector of the last cylinder on the last head. If an attempt is made by the simulator, to access data on the drive image that is beyond the end of the available data (but still within the bounds defined by the geometry of the device), the simulator will extend the image file dynamically.

The BSD file contains the contents of all Viper Plus registers. It also saves the contents of any buffers and the states of all internal devices (HDD controllers, PIT, PIC, etc.). When the BSD file is read in, all buffers are filled with past data, and all states are restored to their saved states.

The symbol files that the debugger uses are in a simple text format. Each line contains an address, length, and symbol name. Any line that starts with a semicolon is considered a comment. Following is a sample file:

; SimNow Debugger Symbol File Format

;

 

 

; Address

Length

Symbolic Name

004011f0

3f

_main

00401a3c

0

_GetModuleHandleA@4

 

 

 

00401a42

0

_GetCommandLineA@0

 

 

 

The address value may be an absolute address or a module-relative address. For the latter case, the load address may be specified when the symbols are loaded into the debugger with the "load_symbols" command (see Section 10.2, Debugger Command Reference”, on page 151).

Appendix A

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AMD 4.4.5 user manual Appendix, Format of Floppy and Hard-Drive Images, 177

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.