SYSTEM BIOS

8.3 Boot Functions

The BIOS supports various functions related to the boot process, including those that occur during the Power On Self-Test (POST) routine.

8.3.1 Boot Device Order

The default boot device order is as follows:

1.CD-ROM drive (EL Torito CD images)

2.Diskette drive (A:)

3.USB device

4.Hard drive (C:)

5.Network interface controller (NIC)

✎The above order assumes all devices are present in the initial configuration. If, for example, a diskette drive is not initially installed but added later, then drive A would be added to the end of the order (after the NIC)

The order can be changed in the ROM-based Setup utility (accessed by pressing F10 when so prompted during POST). The options are displayed only if the device is attached, except for USB devices. The USB option is displayed even if no USB storage devices are present. The hot IPL option is available through the F9 utility, which allows the user to select a hot IPL boot device.

8.3.2Network Boot (F12) Support

The BIOS supports booting the system to a network server. The function is accessed by pressing the F12 key when prompted at the lower right hand corner of the display during POST. Booting to a network server allows for such functions as:

■Flashing a ROM on a system without a functional operating system (OS).

■Installing an OS.

■Installing an application.

These systems include, as standard, an integrated Intel 82562-equivalent NIC with Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) ROM and can boot with a NetPC-compliant server.

8.3.3 Memory Detection and Configuration

This system uses the Serial Presence Detect (SPD) method of determining the installed DIMM configuration. The BIOS communicates with an EEPROM on each DIMM through the SMBus to obtain data on the following DIMM parameters:

■Presence

■Size

■Type

■Timing/CAS latency

✎Refer to Chapter 3, “Processor/Memory Subsystem” for the SPD format and DIMM data specific to this system.

 

Technical Reference Guide

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