DIGITAL-LOGIC AG

MSB900/L Detailed Technical Manual V1.0

13.PXE-BOOT AND PXE-SETUP IN THE BIOS

PXE Protocol

PXE is defined on a foundation of industry-standard Internet protocols and services that are widely deployed in the industry, namely TCP/IP, DHCP, and TFTP. These standardize the form of the interactions between clients and servers. To ensure that the meaning of the client-server interaction is standardized as well, cer- tain vendor option fields in DHCP protocol are used, which are allowed by the DHCP standard. The opera- tions of standard DHCP and/or BOOTP servers (that serve up IP addresses and/or NBPs) will not be dis- rupted by the use of the extended protocol. Clients and servers that are aware of these extensions will rec- ognize and use this information, and those that do not recognize the extensions will ignore them.

In brief, the PXE protocol operates as follows. The client initiates the protocol by broadcasting a DHCPDISCOVER containing an extension that identifies the request as coming from a client that implements the PXE protocol. Assuming that a DHCP server or a Proxy DHCP server implementing this extended proto- col is available, after several intermediate steps, the server sends the client a list of appropriate Boot Serv- ers. The client then discovers a Boot Server of the type selected and receives the name of an executable file on the chosen Boot Server. The client uses TFTP to download the executable from the Boot Server. Finally, the client initiates execution of the downloaded image. At this point, the client’s state must meet certain re- quirements that provide a predictable execution environment for the image. Important aspects of this envi- ronment include the availability of certain areas of the client’s main memory, and the availability of basic net- work I/O services.

Deployment of servers

On the server end of the client-server interaction there must be available services that are responsible for providing redirection of the client to an appropriate Boot Server. These redirection services may be deployed in two ways:

1. Combined standard DHCP and redirection services.

The DHCP servers that are supplying IP addresses to clients are modified to become, or are replaced by servers that serve up IP addresses for all clients and redirect PXE-enabled clients to Boot Servers as requested.

2. Separate standard DHCP and redirection services.

PXE redirection servers (Proxy DHCP servers) are added to the existing network environment. They respond only to PXE-enabled clients, and provide only redirection to Boot Servers. Each PXE Boot Server must have one or more executables appropriate to the clients that it serves.

Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) Specification 11

Version 2.1 September 20, 1999

Copyright © 1998, 1999 Intel Corporation. All rights reserved.

This diagram illustrates the relationship between the NBP (the remote boot program) and the PXE APIs.

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Compaq MSB900L user manual PXE-BOOT and PXE-SETUP in the Bios, Combined standard Dhcp and redirection services
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MSB900, MSB900L specifications

The Compaq MSB900 and MSB900L are noteworthy entries in the realm of personal computing, particularly for their cutting-edge features and innovative technologies that defined their era. Positioned as versatile desktop solutions, both models have garnered attention for their robust performance and user-friendly design.

The Compaq MSB900 is equipped with a powerful processor that enhances multitasking efficiency. Its architecture supports a range of demanding applications, making it suitable for both professional and everyday use. Users can expect a seamless experience whether working on complex spreadsheets or engaging in casual gaming.

In terms of memory, the MSB900 boasts expandable RAM options, allowing users to enhance their system's capabilities as needed. The availability of multiple RAM slots provides flexibility for upgrades, ensuring the system can keep pace with future software requirements. Storage solutions in the MSB900 include high-speed hard drives, which contribute to fast boot times and robust data retrieval.

The MSB900L variant steps up the performance with additional features tailored for power users. It incorporates advanced graphics capabilities, offering superior visual experiences for gaming and multimedia applications. The dedicated graphics card provides a substantial boost in rendering performance, making it a worthy choice for graphic designers and video editors.

One of the standout characteristics of the MSB900 and MSB900L is their commitment to connectivity. Both models come equipped with a wide array of ports, ensuring compatibility with various peripherals. This includes USB ports for modern devices, Ethernet ports for wired networking, and legacy connections for older technology, catering to a diverse user base.

Energy efficiency is another key feature of these models. Designed with power-saving technologies, the Compaq MSB900 and MSB900L aim to reduce energy consumption without compromising performance. This focus not only helps to lower operating costs but also aligns with growing consumer preferences for environmentally conscious products.

In summary, the Compaq MSB900 and MSB900L offer a compelling combination of performance, expandability, and connectivity. Their innovative features and user-friendly design make them suitable for a wide range of users, from casual consumers to professional power users. As a testament to Compaq’s legacy, these models continue to be regarded as reliable choices in the personal computing landscape.
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