Chapter 4: System BIOS

What is the BIOS?

The BIOS (Basic Input Output System) is an important piece of software which is stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) chip inside the computer. It consists of the basic instructions for controlling the disk drives, hard disk, keyboard and serial/parallel ports. The BIOS also keeps a list of the specifications of the computer in battery-backed RAM (also known as the CMOS RAM) and provides a special Setup program to change this information.

The BIOS in your Viglen computer is guaranteed to be fully compatible with the IBM BIOS. It has been written by American MegaTrends Inc. (AMI), an industrial leader in the field of BIOS software.

The Power-on sequence

When the computer is first switched on, certain instructions in the BIOS are executed to test various parts of the machine. This is known as the POST (Power-On Self Test) routine. When you switch the computer on (or when you press the Reset button or press <Ctrl> + <Alt>+ <Delete> keys, which has the same effect), you can see on the monitor that it counts through the memory, testing it. The floppy disk drives are then accessed and tested, and the various interfaces are checked. If there are any errors, a message is displayed on the screen.

Having passed all the tests, and if you have activated the password facility, the BIOS then asks you to enter the boot password to continue. The following section describes how to do this. The BIOS then loads the operating system, either - MS DOS, Windows 2000 Professional or Windows XP Pro /Home, etc. - from the hard disk (or floppy disk if one is inserted in Drive A:). The computer is then ready for use.

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Intel Vig390s manual What is the BIOS?, Power-on sequence

Vig390s specifications

The Intel Vig390s is a sophisticated system-on-chip (SoC) designed for a variety of applications, particularly in the fields of IoT (Internet of Things), industrial automation, and embedded systems. As a versatile processor, it combines high performance with energy efficiency, making it suitable for resource-constrained environments.

One of the key features of the Intel Vig390s is its multi-core architecture, which facilitates parallel processing capabilities. This design allows the chip to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, optimizing performance in data-intensive applications. The chip typically incorporates up to four custom cores that operate at impressive clock speeds, ensuring swift processing in complex and demanding workloads.

In terms of graphics capabilities, the Vig390s boasts integrated Intel HD Graphics, providing enhanced visual performance without the need for additional discrete graphics units. This feature is particularly beneficial for applications requiring graphical interfaces, such as smart displays and human-machine interfaces (HMIs), where visual clarity and responsiveness are crucial.

Another notable characteristic of the Vig390s is its support for various connectivity options. The SoC includes integrated networking capabilities, such as Ethernet and Wi-Fi support, enabling seamless communication between devices in an IoT ecosystem. This connectivity enhances the chip's utility in smart factory environments, where real-time data exchange is essential for operational efficiency.

Additionally, the Intel Vig390s is built on advanced manufacturing processes, which not only improves performance but also reduces power consumption. This efficiency is vital for embedded systems that often operate in remote or energy-sensitive environments. The chip has integrated power management features that dynamically adjust performance levels based on workload, thereby extending battery life in portable applications.

The architecture of the Vig390s is also equipped with robust security features, including hardware-based security measures that help protect sensitive data. This capability is increasingly important in an era where cybersecurity threats are prevalent.

With scalability in mind, Intel designed the Vig390s to support a range of operating systems, making it flexible for developers looking to deploy applications across various platforms. Its compatibility with major IoT frameworks enhances its appeal in diverse use cases.

In summary, the Intel Vig390s distinguishes itself with its powerful multi-core processing, integrated graphics, extensive connectivity options, energy efficiency, and security features, making it an ideal choice for modern IoT and embedded applications.