Basic Input Output System (BIOS)

STL2 Server Board TPS

To manually load a portion of the BIOS, the user must specify which data file(s) to load. The choices include

PLATCBLU.BIN

PLATCXLU.BIN

PLATCXXX.BIN

PLATCXLX.BIN

PLATCXXU.BIN

The last three letters specify the functions to perform during the flash process:

C = Rewrite BIOS

B = Rewrite Bootblock

L = Clear LOGO area

U = Clear user binary

X = place hold

This file is loaded into the PHLASH program with the /b=<bin file>.

The disk created by the BIOS.EXE program will automatically run phlash /s /b=PLATCXLU.BIN command in non-interactive mode. For a complete list of phlash switches, run phlash /h.

Once an update of the system BIOS is complete, the user is prompted for a reboot. The user binary area is also updated during a system BIOS update. User binary can be updated independently of the system BIOS. CMOS is cleared when the system BIOS is updated.

4.5.2OEM Customization

An OEM can customize the STL2 BIOS for product differentiation. The extent of customization is limited to what is stated in this section. OEMs can change the BIOS look and feel by adding their own splash screen/logo. OEMs can manage OEM-specific hardware, if any, by executing their own code during POST by using the “User-supplied BIOS Code Support.”

4.5.2.1User-supplied BIOS Code Support

A 16 KB region of flash ROM is available to store a user binary. The Phoenix* Phlash utility allows the OEM or end user to update the user binary region with OEM supplied code and/or data. At several points throughout POST, control is passed to this user binary. Intel provides tools and reference code to help OEMs create a user binary. The user binary must adhere to the following requirements:

To allow detection by BIOS and protection from run time memory managers, the user binary must have an option ROM header (i.e., 55AAh, size).

The system BIOS performs a scan of the user binary area at predefined points during POST. Mask bits must be set within the user binary to inform the BIOS which entry points exist.

4-44

Page 52
Image 52
Intel STL2 manual OEM Customization, User-supplied Bios Code Support

STL2 specifications

The Intel STL2, known as the Intel Storage Technology Level 2, is a robust solution designed to elevate storage management and performance for enterprise-level applications. This next-generation system is specifically tailored for organizations that demand high reliability, scalability, and efficiency in their storage solutions.

One of the primary features of the Intel STL2 is its advanced data protection mechanisms. With integrated RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) support, it ensures that data remains safe, even in the event of hardware failure. RAID configurations can be easily set up and managed, allowing businesses to choose the right balance between performance and redundancy based on their unique requirements.

In terms of performance, the STL2 leverages cutting-edge SSD (Solid State Drive) integration to provide high-speed data access and reduced latency. This capability is essential for modern applications that require quick retrieval of large volumes of data, making it suitable for environments like data analytics, AI, and cloud computing.

Scalability is another significant characteristic of the Intel STL2. It is designed to grow alongside an organization’s needs, supporting a diverse range of storage architectures. Whether a company is looking to expand its data center or transition to hybrid cloud solutions, the STL2 can accommodate additional storage resources effortlessly, ensuring that performance does not degrade as storage demands increase.

Moreover, the STL2 features advanced automation and management tools that simplify storage operations. The system allows for real-time monitoring and analytics, providing insights into storage health, performance metrics, and capacity forecasts. This level of visibility enables IT teams to optimize resource utilization and proactively address potential issues before they become critical.

Another notable technology integrated into the STL2 is Intel’s Open Storage Architecture, which promotes interoperability with various software and hardware platforms. This open approach facilitates seamless integrations with existing systems and enhances flexibility within dynamic IT environments.

Lastly, Intel STL2 prioritizes energy efficiency. Its design minimizes power consumption without sacrificing performance, helping organizations reduce their operational costs and carbon footprint.

In summary, the Intel STL2 stands out in the competitive landscape of storage solutions with its focus on data protection, high performance, scalability, advanced management features, open architecture compatibility, and energy efficiency. These characteristics make it an ideal choice for businesses looking to enhance their data storage capabilities in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.