Overview of BIOS Features

3.4 System Management BIOS (SMBIOS)

SMBIOS is a Desktop Management Interface (DMI) compliant method for managing computers in a managed network.

The main component of SMBIOS is the Management Information Format (MIF) database, which contains information about the computing system and its components. Using SMBIOS, a system administrator can obtain the system types, capabilities, operational status, and installation dates for system components. The MIF database defines the data and provides the method for accessing this information. The BIOS enables applications such as third-party management software to use SMBIOS. The BIOS stores and reports the following SMBIOS information:

•BIOS data, such as the BIOS revision level

•Fixed-system data, such as peripherals, serial numbers, and asset tags

•Resource data, such as memory size, cache size, and processor speed

•Dynamic data, such as event detection and error logging

Non-Plug and Play operating systems, such as Windows NT†, require an additional interface for obtaining the SMBIOS information. The BIOS supports an SMBIOS table interface for such operating systems. Using this support, an SMBIOS service-level application running on a non-Plug and Play operating system can obtain the SMBIOS information.

3.5 Legacy USB Support

Legacy USB support enables USB devices such as keyboards, mice, and hubs to be used even when the operating system’s USB drivers are not yet available. Legacy USB support is used to access the BIOS Setup program, and to install an operating system that supports USB. By default, Legacy USB support is set to Enabled.

Legacy USB support operates as follows:

1.When you apply power to the computer, legacy support is disabled.

2.POST begins.

3.Legacy USB support is enabled by the BIOS allowing you to use a USB keyboard to enter and configure the BIOS Setup program and the maintenance menu.

4.POST completes.

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