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Intel SE7501WV2 manual System Flash ROM Layout, Bios Boot Specification Compliance

Models: SE7501WV2

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Intel® Server Board SE7501WV2 TPS

BIOS

6.BIOS

This section describes the BIOS-embedded software for the SE7501WV2 server board. This section also describes BIOS support utilities that are required for system configuration (ROM resident) and flash ROM update (not ROM resident). The BIOS contains standard PC- compatible basic input/output (I/O) services and standard Intel® server features.

The BIOS is implemented as firmware that resides in the flash ROM. Support for applicable baseboard peripheral devices (SCSI, NIC, video adapters, etc.) that are also loaded into the baseboard flash ROM are not specified in this document. Hooks are provided to support adding BIOS code for these adapters. The binaries for these must be obtained from the peripheral device manufacturers and loaded into the appropriate locations.

6.1System Flash ROM Layout

The flash ROM contains system initialization routines, the BIOS Setup Utility, and runtime support routines. The exact layout is subject to change, as determined by Intel. A 16 KB user block is available for user ROM code or custom logos. A 96 KB area is used to store the string database. The flash ROM also contains initialization code in compressed form for on-board peripherals, like SCSI and video controllers.

The complete ROM is visible, starting at physical address 4 GB minus the size of the flash ROM device. Only the BIOS needs to know the exact map. The BIOS image contains all of the BIOS components at appropriate locations. The Flash Memory Update utility loads the BIOS image minus the recovery block to the flash.

Because of shadowing, none of the flash blocks is visible at the aliased addresses below 1 MB.

A 16 KB parameter block in the flash ROM is dedicated to storing configuration data that controls the system configuration (ESCD) and the on-board SCSI configuration. Application software must use standard APIs to access these areas; application software cannot access the data directly.

6.2BIOS Boot Specification Compliance

The BIOS conforms to the BIOS Boot Specification (BBS), Revision 1.01, which describes the method used to identify all initial program load (IPL) devices in the system, prioritizes them in the order selected in Setup, and then sequentially attempts to boot from each device.

If more than one non-BBS compliant device exists in the system, the boot device is determined by the option ROM scan order. Option ROMs residing lower in memory are scanned first. In some instances, control of which non-BBS compliant device from which the system is booted may be achieved by moving the adapter cards to different slots in the system. The BIOS may include special code and may be able to selectively boot from one of several non-BBS compliant devices in the system. Such techniques do not always work and are outside the scope of this document.

BIOS Setup provides boot order options including: CD-ROM, hard drive, removable device, and other bootable devices such as a network card or a SCSI CD-ROM. The system BIOS tries to

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Intel reference number C25653-001

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Intel SE7501WV2 manual System Flash ROM Layout, Bios Boot Specification Compliance
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SE7501WV2 specifications

The Intel SE7501WV2 is a versatile server motherboard designed to meet the demanding needs of modern computing environments. Engineered with a focus on performance, reliability, and flexibility, this motherboard is tailored for a range of applications, from entry-level servers to high-performance computing tasks.

One of the main features of the SE7501WV2 is its support for Intel's Xeon processors, specifically those based on the Netburst architecture. This compatibility allows for powerful multi-threaded processing capabilities, making it ideal for businesses seeking to optimize their server performance. The motherboard supports dual CPU configurations, enabling up to two processors to work simultaneously, thereby increasing computational power and efficiency.

The motherboard incorporates Intel's advanced server management technologies such as Intel Active Monitoring Technology, which helps in monitoring system health and optimizing power usage. Additionally, it features Intel's I/O Acceleration Technology, which enhances data throughput and reduces latencies, ensuring that applications run smoothly and efficiently.

Another significant characteristic of the SE7501WV2 is the memory capacity it offers. With support for up to 16 GB of ECC (Error-Correcting Code) DDR SDRAM, the motherboard helps in maintaining system stability during high workloads. The ECC memory not only prevents data corruption but also significantly enhances the reliability of mission-critical applications.

For connectivity, the SE7501WV2 comes equipped with multiple PCI-X slots, enabling the addition of various expansion cards for network, storage, and graphic capabilities. This expandability is crucial for enterprises that need to adapt their server architecture to evolving workloads.

Moreover, the SE7501WV2 features integrated high-performance RAID support, improving data redundancy and performance. This feature is essential for organizations that prioritize data security and require robust backup solutions.

In terms of power management, the motherboard supports advanced power features that help reduce operational costs while maximizing performance. The design ensures efficient power consumption, allowing it to run cooler and quieter, which is particularly beneficial for noisy data center environments.

In conclusion, the Intel SE7501WV2 motherboard is designed for those who require robust performance, reliability, and flexibility in server applications. With its support for dual Xeon processors, extensive memory capabilities, advanced management technologies, and expandability, it stands out as a solid solution for many enterprise-level computing needs.