Chapter 4: BIOS

Chapter 4

BIOS

4-1 Introduction

This chapter describes the Phoenix BIOS™ Setup utility for the X7DB8/X7DBE. The Phoenix ROM BIOS is stored in a fl ash chip and can be easily upgraded using a fl oppy disk-based program.

Note: Due to periodic changes to the BIOS, some settings may have been added or deleted and might not yet be recorded in this manual. Please refer to the Manual Download area of the Supermicro web site <http://www.supermicro.com> for any changes to the BIOS that may not be refl ected in this manual.

System BIOS

The BIOS is the Basic Input Output System used in all IBM® PC, XT™, AT®, and PS/2® compatible computers. The Phoenix BIOS stores the system parameters, types of disk drives, video displays, etc. in the CMOS. The CMOS memory requires very little electrical power. When the computer is turned off, a backup battery pro- vides power to the CMOS Logic, enabling it to retain system parameters. Each time the computer is powered on the computer is confi gured with the values stored in the CMOS Logic by the system BIOS, which gains control at boot up.

How To Change the Configuration Data

The CMOS information that determines the system parameters may be changed by entering the BIOS Setup utility. This Setup utility can be accessed by pressing the <Delete> key at the appropriate time during system boot. (See below.)

Starting the Setup Utility

Normally, the only visible POST (Power On Self Test) routine is the memory test. As the memory is being tested, press the <Delete> key to enter the main menu of the BIOS Setup utility. From the main menu, you can access the other setup screens, such as the Security and Power menus. Beginning with Section 4-3, detailed de- scriptions are given for each parameter setting in the Setup utility.

Warning: Do not shut down or reset the system while updating BIOS to prevent possible boot failure.

4-1

Page 58 Page 60
Page 59
Image 59
SUPER MICRO Computer X7DB8 Introduction, System Bios, How To Change the Configuration Data, Starting the Setup Utility
Page 58 Page 60

X7DB8, X7DBE specifications

Super Micro Computer, a global leader in high-performance server and storage solutions, has developed a range of advanced server motherboards, among which the X7DBE and X7DB8 stand out for their robust performance and versatility. Designed for data-intensive applications, these motherboards cater to various markets, including cloud computing, enterprise data centers, and video surveillance.

The X7DBE motherboards are built on the Intel 5000 series chipset and support dual Intel Xeon processors, which provide exceptional processing power for demanding applications. With a maximum memory capacity of 64GB, these motherboards cater to memory-intensive workloads, making them ideal for virtualization and database applications. The X7DBE supports both ECC (Error-Correcting Code) and non-ECC memory, enhancing system reliability and data integrity.

In terms of storage, the X7DBE is equipped with multiple 3.5-inch SATA hard drive bays that allow for substantial data storage capabilities. Additionally, it includes integrated RAID support, enabling users to configure their storage environment for optimal performance and redundancy. The advanced thermal management technology ensures efficient cooling, promoting system stability and longevity even under heavy workloads.

The X7DB8, on the other hand, takes performance a notch higher by providing support for the latest Intel processors and offering enhanced features geared toward high-performance computing. Like the X7DBE, it supports dual processors but extends capability for larger memory configurations, allowing up to 128GB of DDR2 memory. This flexibility makes the X7DB8 an excellent choice for mission-critical applications requiring immense processing power.

Both motherboards come equipped with multiple PCI Express slots, enabling the installation of add-on cards for tasks such as enhanced graphics, additional network interfaces, or dedicated storage controllers, thus providing scalability to meet the growing demands of modern applications. Network connectivity is robust, with several Gigabit Ethernet ports ensuring high-speed data transfer.

In conclusion, Super Micro's X7DBE and X7DB8 motherboards exemplify the perfect blend of performance, scalability, and reliability. With their support for advanced technologies and their ability to handle high workloads, they are ideal solutions for businesses seeking to optimize their server infrastructure. As technology continues to evolve, these motherboards remain pertinent, providing a solid foundation for various applications and future advancements.
Top Page Image Contents