Management Information Format (MIF)
Management Information Format (MIF) is a file used to maintain a list of the
system unit serial number along with all serialized components (for example,
system board, riser card, memory, and processor).
At the time of computer manufacture, the EPROM will be loaded with the serial
numbers of the system and all major components.

A company called Retain-a-Group is a central data warehouse offering serial

number data management. Retain-a-Group acts as a focal point to law
enforcement. The customer has the option to purchase serial number information
and services from Retain-a-Group. It is the customer’s responsibility to maintain
the MIF file and to inform Retain-a-Group of any changes to the file.
Some customers may request their servicers to assist them in maintaining the MIF
file when serialized components are replaced during hardware service. This
assistance is between the customer and the servicer. The servicer can use the DMI
MIF Browser to update the MIF information in the EPROM. It is anticipated that
some servicers might charge for this service.

To update the EPROM using the DMI MIF Browser, use the following procedure.

1. Click Start from the desktop, then Programs.
2. Select IBM SystemView Agent
3. Select the Serial Number Information icon
4. Click the plus sign to expand.
5. Select the component you want to view or edit.
6. Double click on the component you want to change.

7. Enter new data in the Value field, then click Apply.

BIOS levels
An incorrect level of BIOS can cause false errors and unnecessary FRU
replacement. Use the following information to determine the current level of BIOS
installed in the computer, the latest BIOS available for the computer, and where to
obtain the latest level of BIOS.

v Current Level BIOS information

– Run the Configuration Utility to determine the level of BIOS installed.

v
Sources for determining the latest level BIOS available
1. IBM PC support web site: http://www.ibm.com/pc/support/
2. IBM Support Center
3. Levels 1 and 2 Support

4. RETAIN

®

v Sources for obtaining the latest level BIOS available

1. IBM PC support web site:http://www.ibm.com/pc/support/
2. IBM Support Center

3. Levels 1 and 2 Support

To update (flash) the BIOS, see “Flash update procedures” on page 148.

Chapter 9. Additional Service Information 147