Overview of BIOS Features

3.7 Boot Options

In the BIOS Setup program, the user can choose to boot from a diskette drive, hard drives, CD-ROM, or the network. The default setting is for the diskette drive to be the first boot device, the hard drive second, and the ATAPI CD-ROM third. The fourth device is disabled.

3.7.1CD-ROM Boot

Booting from CD-ROM is supported in compliance to the El Torito bootable CD-ROM format specification. Under the Boot menu in the BIOS Setup program, ATAPI CD-ROM is listed as a boot device. Boot devices are defined in priority order. Accordingly, if there is not a bootable CD in the CD-ROM drive, the system will attempt to boot from the next defined drive.

3.7.2Network Boot

The network can be selected as a boot device. This selection allows booting from the onboard LAN or a network add-in card with a remote boot ROM installed.

Pressing the <F12> key during POST automatically forces booting from the LAN. To use this key during POST, the User Access Level in the BIOS Setup program's Security menu must be

set to Full.

3.7.3Booting Without Attached Devices

For use in embedded applications, the BIOS has been designed so that after passing the POST, the operating system loader is invoked even if the following devices are not present:

Video adapter

Keyboard

Mouse

3.7.4Changing the Default Boot Device During POST

Pressing the <F10> key during POST causes a boot device menu to be displayed. This menu displays the list of available boot devices (as set in the BIOS setup program’s Boot Device Priority Submenu). Table 46 lists the boot device menu options.

Table 46. Boot Device Menu Options

Boot Device Menu Function Keys

Description

 

 

<> or <>

Selects a default boot device

 

 

<Enter>

Exits the menu, saves changes, and boots from the selected device

 

 

<Esc>

Exits the menu without saving changes

 

 

99

Page 99
Image 99
Intel D925XBC, D925XCV specifications Boot Options, CD-ROM Boot, Network Boot, Booting Without Attached Devices

D925XBC, D925XCV specifications

The Intel D925XBC and D925XCV are motherboards designed for Intel's LGA 775 socket, targeted primarily at the desktop market during the mid-2000s. These motherboards support Intel's innovative 800 MHz Front Side Bus and provide a robust platform for various computing applications, including gaming and multitasking.

One of the standout features of the D925XBC and D925XCV is their compatibility with Intel's Pentium 4 and Pentium D dual-core processors. These processors deliver impressive performance, especially for users engaging in demanding tasks such as video editing and 3D rendering. The support for dual-channel DDR2 memory allows for increased bandwidth and improved overall system performance, accommodating up to 8 GB of memory in total.

The motherboards are equipped with the Intel 925X chipset, which integrates advanced technologies. This chipset supports Intel's Enhanced Memory 64 Technology (EM64T), allowing for more efficient processing power and better resource management. The presence of the I/O Controller Hub (ICH6) also enhances connectivity options, including SATA 3.0 Gbps interfaces for faster data transfer rates and improved storage capabilities.

Regarding expansion and connectivity, both motherboards feature multiple PCI Express slots along with PCI slots, allowing users to customize their systems according to their needs. This expandability is essential for gamers and professionals looking to add advanced graphics cards and other peripherals. Additionally, these boards come with integrated audio, ensuring satisfactory sound quality without the need for additional sound cards.

The D925XBC and D925XCV motherboards also include integrated Ethernet controllers, supporting fast network connectivity essential for gaming and high-speed internet access. With multiple USB ports available, users can connect a wide variety of devices easily, enhancing the flexibility of their setups.

In terms of form factor, both boards follow the ATX layout, providing compatibility with a broad range of computer cases. This ensures ease of installation and upgrades while promoting good airflow and optimal thermal management for the components installed.

Overall, the Intel D925XBC and D925XCV motherboards integrate essential features and technologies that provide a solid foundation for desktop computing during their time. With strong processing capabilities, expandability, and good connectivity options, these boards were well-received by users looking for reliable performance and versatility in their systems.