Modern BIOS versions. Types of BIOS: ami, award, uefi Purpose of the motherboard BIOS
Although the tasks performed by the BIOS are the same regardless of the specific BIOS implementation, there are still differences. The most noticeable thing for the user is the interface of the BIOS Setup subroutine. So it makes sense to dwell on BIOS manufacturers and versions, differences in their interface, and control method.
BIOS Manufacturers
Currently, among the developers of BIOS for personal computers, three companies are most famous.
Firstly, this is the “veteran of bioconstruction” American Megatrends, Inc. At the time of the 386 processors, BIOS developments from this company (AMI BIOS) were installed on almost all computers. Then they were gradually replaced by BIOS produced by Award Software, Inc. (more on this company a little later). But recently the situation has changed and AMI BIOS has again gained well-deserved popularity among manufacturers. It is happily used by such well-known motherboard manufacturers as ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI, ESC and others.
Second in alphabetical order is Intel. Some time ago, she used a modified BIOS from American Megatrends, Inc. on her motherboards. - it was called Intel/AMI BIOS. Now, after significant revision, the mention of American Megatrends, Inc. disappeared and modern motherboards use their own Intel BIOS.
It should be noted here that, unlike other BIOS developer companies, Intel uses its developments only on its own motherboards.
And finally, the third very influential “player” in this market is Phoenix Technologies. Prior to the acquisition of Award Software, Inc. (during the time of Pentium - Pentium II processors) Phoenix BIOS was not particularly popular among motherboard manufacturers, but Award BIOS of the then independent Award Software, Inc. used on the vast majority of computers. So the acquisition of Award Software, Inc. allowed Phoenix Technologies to significantly expand its market share, and now Phoenix Technologies BIOS (trademarks - Award BIOS, Phoenix Award BIOS, Phoenix Award Workstation BIOS) are used by almost all motherboard manufacturers. It is even more popular (especially among second-tier motherboard manufacturers) than AMI BIOS.
Current BIOS versions
During the times of the first and second Pentiums, the BIOS from Award Software, Inc. was most often used on computers. version 4.51PG (Award BIOS 4.51PG). Alternatively, AMI BIOS version 1.21 or 1.24 from American Megatrends, Inc. could be installed.
We are talking here not about versions (revisions) of BIOS firmware for each specific motherboard (computer), but about “global” BIOS versions from developers. To put it simply, we can say that we are talking about versions of the BIOS Setup program interface.
At the time of the Pentium III's appearance, Award Software, Inc. was purchased. by Phoenix Technologies. As a result of the merger, several varieties of the 6th version of Award BIOS appeared at once. Thus, version 6.0 (without additional letter indices) uses a navigation method inherited from the Phoenix BIOS, and 6.0PG uses a method largely similar to that used in version 4.51PG. Then some leapfrog began with names. You can find Award BIOS 6.0PG, Phoenix Award BIOS 6.0PG, and Phoenix Award Workstation BIOS 6.0PG on the motherboard, but, in essence, they are the same thing - Phoenix Award BIOS 6.0PG (this is the name we will use hereinafter, as the most common). Both the interface and the set of options are almost identical, and certain differences are due rather to proprietary “features” of motherboard manufacturers, and to the characteristics of the chipsets used and supported processors. By the way, you can find all these varieties of the 6th version of the Phoenix-Award BIOS on the most modern computer. A similar situation can be observed with Phoenix Award BIOS 6.0: sometimes it is called Phoenix BIOS 6.0.
Somewhat later (at the time of the appearance of the Pentium 4 Socket 423), the AMI BIOS from American Megatrends, Inc. also underwent a certain modernization. — version 1.45 has appeared, almost completely copying the previous one. The changes introduced in it are mainly cosmetic and relate to the interface. Then (approximately at the time of the announcement of the Pentium 4 Socket 478), another small upgrade took place to version 1.50. Its main advantage is a much larger number of options available for changing (earlier versions of AMI BIOS were distinguished by a certain “asceticism” in this regard). Here are further updates to American Megatrends, Inc. products. are more significant.
First of all, in version AMI BIOS 2.01 the interface was radically redesigned - it has become much more convenient. In some ways it resembles that of Phoenix Award BIOS 6.0PG. This idea was further developed in AMI BIOS 3.31A. Well, for modern computers American Megatrends, Inc. offers AMI BIOS 2.5x and AMI BIOS 2.6x (2.51, 2.53, 2.55, 2.58, 2.61, 2.62, 2.63, etc.). Yes, don’t be surprised, AMI BIOS 2.5x/2.6x appeared after version 3.31A.
If we compare modern versions of the Phoenix Award BIOS and AMI BIOS, the latter, while not inferior to the Phoenix Award BIOS in terms of the number and richness of settings (the strong point of first Award Software, Inc., and then Phoenix Technologies), are somewhat more convenient in terms of interface. In addition, starting with AMI BIOS 1.45, American Megatrends, Inc. offers such a wonderful opportunity as selecting the device from which to boot without entering BIOS Setup. All you have to do is press a specific key (
However, this feature is present in some modifications of the Phoenix Award BIOS and Intel BIOS (you just need to press
Here we must make one important note regarding a manufacturer such as ASUS. This company has been modernizing the BIOS code for quite some time, making many changes to it. As a result, the interface of the BIOS Setup utility on ASUS motherboards is often significantly different from the interface of authentic BIOS versions. Thus, the appearance of the BIOS Setup utility AMI BIOS versions 2.5x/2.6x, currently used on most ASUS products, has little in common with the interface of a similar version of AMI BIOS used, say, by Gigabyte or MSI. Rather, it is specific to Phoenix Award BIOS 6.0. However, the Phoenix-Award program code has also undergone significant modernization. In the original version - Award BIOS 6.0 - the location of options has been changed and new settings have been added. Further development of the branch on ASUS motherboards (now it is called Phoenix Award BIOS 6.0) brought the interface of the BIOS Setup utilities of the two BIOS developers even closer together. Based on this, it makes sense to consider the upgraded ASUS versions of AMI BIOS 2.5x/2.6x, Award BIOS 6.0 and Phoenix Award BIOS 6.0 as completely independent products.
And, finally, Intel products used on its own motherboards. As already mentioned, some time ago this was a thoroughly modernized AMI BIOS, which eventually received the name Intel/AMI BIOS 6.0. Modern boards are already based on our own development - Intel BIOS 6.0PG, which has a different interface and, most importantly, finally allows full control of bus frequencies and memory timings (latencies).
To be fair, it should be noted that control of bus frequencies and memory timings first appeared in the latest implementations of Intel/AMI BIOS 6.0. But before this, Intel/AMI BIOS 6.0 could with a clear conscience be considered the most minimalistic in terms of settings. And one could only dream of such a concept as overclocking.
As a rule, with the release of new BIOS versions, motherboard manufacturers stop using older versions. But there are also exceptions. It is quite possible to find, for example, AMI BIOS 1.21 on a motherboard for Pentium 4, especially if this board was produced by a second-tier manufacturer.
A few notes
Before moving on to descriptions of specific BIOS versions, several important notes must be made. The first concerns the BIOS Setup interface. Where possible, reference versions of this interface are provided without modifications made by motherboard manufacturers. This allows you not to focus on the technologies promoted by certain brands to increase the attractiveness of their products in the eyes of the buyer. As a rule, these technologies are aimed at enthusiasts and overclockers and are in most cases ordinary marketing initiatives. So, for example, ASUS on some of its motherboards combines all overclocking-related options into a separate main menu item Extreme Tweaker, Gigabyte renamed the standard item Frequency/Voltage Control V MB Intelligent Tweaker (M.I.T.), MSI - in Cell Menu etc. Yes, at the same time, options remain available to the user to fine-tune the order in which the chipset operates; he can specify all the timings (delays) when working with memory, set increased voltages for the processor core, memory modules and graphics card, but is this good or bad? controversial issue. After all, the basis for stable operation of a motherboard (including at higher frequencies relative to standard frequencies) is primarily the competent design of the motherboard itself and its impeccable layout. And if this is not the case, then no “magic” menus in the BIOS will save you.
The second remark also concerns the interface, but it is of a slightly different kind. Motherboard manufacturers sometimes expand the standard settings offered in certain menu items, adding new ones that allow you to fine-tune certain parameters. Option names may also change. It also happens that some options are transferred from one menu item to another, similar in meaning.
And finally, one more note about the BIOS Setup utility interface. Understanding full well that incorrectly setting the value of some options can lead to unstable operation of the computer and even cause its temporary inoperability, motherboard manufacturers insure themselves against user errors whenever possible. So, until recently, Intel completely removed all potentially dangerous settings from the BIOS Setup (in modern versions of BIOS from Intel they are already available, you just need to first confirm that you understand what you are doing), and, say, Gigabyte on some motherboard models gives full access to all settings only after pressing a certain key combination (
Although the tasks performed by BIOS are the same regardless of their manufacturer and BIOS version, there are still differences between versions. The most important of them is the interface.
2.1. Modern bios versions
Let's start, naturally, with the manufacturers.
ManufacturersBIOS
Currently, two companies are developing BIOS for personal computers.
First of all, this is Award Software, Inc. BIOS developed by this company (AWARD BIOS) is installed on the vast majority of personal computers.
Occasionally there are BIOS developed by American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS of this company (AMIBIOS) in the recent past (at the time of 386 processors) were installed on almost all computers, but they were gradually replaced by BIOS produced by Award Software, Inc.
Some time ago, another company developing BIOS for personal computers, Phoenix, was actively present on the market. BIOS from this company can still be found on not very new computers. Its main drawback is the almost complete absence of user settings, and as a consequence: the inability to optimize the system for yourself. Currently, after the acquisition of Award Software, Inc., the Phoenix brand is present only in the market of multiprocessor servers and workstations.
All versions of BIOS for personal computers are released under the Award Software, Inc. brand.
Note.
Still, there is one motherboard manufacturer,still usingBIOSstampsPhoenix - ThisfirmIntel. Alas, as before, the number of settings is minimal. In addition, to gain access tomost of them need to rearrange the specsred jumper (jumper).
2.2. Booting the computer and calling bios Setup
Let's take a closer look at what happens when you turn on the computer's power.
Loading order
First of all, the installed video card (video adapter) is initialized and checked. Information appears on the monitor screen about its type, the amount of installed video memory, and possibly some other parameters.
Note.
Due to the inertia of modern digital monitorsit is often impossible to see this picture: it isscratches faster than the monitor can completeswitch to the desired mode. And some video cards do not display any messages at all wheninitialization.
After the video card is initialized, the type of processor and the amount of installed RAM are determined, and these devices are checked.
The hard drives are initialized and checked, then the expansion cards are initialized and checked.
If the expansion card has its own BIOS (for example, a SCSI controller board), control is temporarily transferred to the card's BIOS.
After checking all devices, the Plug and Play extension starts, finding devices that are compatible with the Plug and Play standard.
At the end of testing, the BIOS displays a table with the computer’s hardware configuration (Fig. 2.3) and transfers control to the operating system, more precisely, to the operating system loader. This boot loader is located in the Boot sector of the hard drive or floppy disk with the operating system.
CallBIOSSetup
At the time of initial initialization, after the self-test procedure, an inscription appears on the screen inviting you to enter BIOS Setup. For example, it might look like this: Press DEL to enter Setup
Note.
Call on different computersBIOS Setupcan be carried out in different ways: it can beF2 or any other key, justDel- the most common option. Usually the way to enterBIOS Setupindicated while loading.
AWARD BIOS versions4.51 PG
As mentioned, version 4.51PG was widely used several years ago. Most often, BIOS of this version can be found on computers with processors of the fifth, intermediate, and first wave of the sixth generation (in time, somewhere before the Pentium III).
Main menu
By calling the BIOS Setup utility, you are immediately taken to the main menu of this program.
Let's consider in detail the purpose of the options.
STANDARD CMOS SETUP - setting the date and time, setting the configuration of disk drives, Post procedure error messages;
BIOS FEATURES SETUP - operating parameters of cache memory, processor, order of polling drives to load the operating system, specifying keyboard settings, etc.;
CHIPSET FEATURES SETUP - speed characteristics of the computer's RAM, setting up various chipset parameters;
POWER MANAGEMENT SETUP - setting energy-saving modes, indicating the shutdown of certain devices when idle, the behavior of the computer when the POWER key is pressed, system monitoring of temperature and fan speed;
Note.
Options that control how the computer behaves when clickedthese keysPOWER, system temperature monitoringfan speeds and speeds are presentonly if the motherboard is compatiblecomplies with the ATX standard.
Note.
Sometimes options responsible for the system monitorring, are in the menu itemCHIPSET FEATURES SETUP.
PNP/ PCICONFIGURATION- reservation of system resources, automatic or manual distribution of interrupts and direct memory access channels for various expansion slots;
LOADPERFORMANCEDEFAULTS - Loading BIOS Setup parameters to ensure maximum performance, although some settings may need to be manually adjusted to ensure stable operation;
Note.
Sometimes a menu itemLOAD PERFORMANCE DEFAULTS wears Name LOAD SETUP DEFAULTS.
INTEGRATEDPERIPHERALS - setting the operating modes of components integrated on the motherboard, such as IDE controllers, ports, possibly an integrated sound card, etc.;
LOADBIOSDEFAULTS- loading BIOS Setup parameters, which are guaranteed to ensure normal operation of the computer hardware;
Note. l ___
Occasionally you can see a revisionBIOS, whereinparagraphINTEGRA TED PERIPHERALS merged withCHIPSET FEATURES SETUP .
SUPERVISORPASSWORD- setting a password used by the system administrator (a password that allows you to both view and change the values of options in BIOS Setup);
USER PASSWORD - setting the password used by the computer user (a password that only allows you to view the values of options in BIOS Setup); IDE HDD AUTO DETECTION - automatic detection of parameters of hard drives connected to the IDE controller on the motherboard;
SAVE & EXIT SETUP - saving the installed parameters and exiting BIOS Setup;
EXIT WITHOUT SAVING - refusal to save the installed parameters and exit BIOS Setup. It should be noted that motherboard manufacturers often expand the standard settings offered in certain menu items, adding new ones that allow more fine-tuning of certain parameters. Sometimes the names of options change. Also, often, some options are transferred from one menu item to another, similar in meaning.
Note.
The company especially likes to do thisAsustek, as a resultOn motherboards manufactured by it, it is possible to configure almost any parameter.
Control
Management in BIOS Setup version 4.51PG is somewhat different from that accepted in application programs. To select an item in the main menu, you must use the cursor keys to move the pointer to it and press Enter. Exit to the main menu from any item - Esc.
If, while in the main menu, you press the key F10, You will be prompted to save your changes and exit BIOS Setup. Pressing Esc in the main menu - refuse to save changes and exit BIOS Setup. To select one or another option in one of the menus, the same cursor control keys are used, but changing the value of an option uses the keys PgUp And PgDn (or + and - on the extended keyboard).
BIOS ( basic input/output system - basic input/output system) - It is a set of low-level system software firmware stored in ROM (Read Only Memory) that has a program for checking the installed configuration (POST system), booting the operating system, and managing computer systems. It is one of the main devices of the computer and is located on the motherboard.
For the European market at the moment there are two BIOS manufacturers: Phoenix and American Megatrends. Phoenix is developing two BIOS options. These are the AWARD and PHOENIX brands. American Megatrends produces a Basic I/O System called AMIBIOS.
There are many varieties of BIOS, primarily the difference in microcode (each motherboard manufacturer develops its own microcode), which subsequently determines the visual shell.
For example, motherboard manufacturer ASUS uses AMI microcode, BIOS menu with blue symbols on a gray background. Most manufacturers use Award/Fhoenix microcode (BIOS menu with gray background and yellow symbols).
Subsequently, extended EFI (Extensible Firmware Interface) interfaces were developed, distinguished by extraordinary graphics. This interface not only allows you to use the keyboard, but also allows you to control the mouse, which in turn makes BIOS setup easier. And this interface has an intuitive menu that allows the initial computer user not to make mistakes in the BIOS settings.
Motherboard BIOSes usually contain many settings:
Setting the system clock time and calendar date.
Configuring peripherals that are not suitable for “plug and play” operation. For example, hard drives from the early 1990s operating in CHS mode; COM and LPT ports.
Starting the equipment in a forced (or, conversely, gentle) mode, resetting to factory settings.
Activating/disabling equipment built into the motherboard (USB, COM and LPT ports, built-in video, network or sound adapter).
Disabling some tests, which speeds up OS loading.
Enable workarounds for known OS errors: for example, if Windows 95 refuses to boot on a machine without a floppy drive, the BIOS can redirect IRQ vectors so that the OS understands that there is no floppy drive. If a poorly written driver does not work with SerialATA hard drives, the BIOS can emulate the behavior of the old IDE drive.
The order of media from which the computer boots: hard drive, USB drives, CD-ROM, booting from a network card using PXE technology, etc. If booting from the first media fails, the BIOS tries the second one in the list, etc. .
The first device that starts after you press the computer's power button is the power supply. If all supply voltages are normal, a special Power Good signal will be sent to the motherboard, indicating successful testing of the power supply and allowing the motherboard components to start.
After this, the chipset generates a CPU reset signal, which clears the processor registers and starts it up. Simplified, the processor works as follows:
1. reads a command from system memory that is written in a memory cell at the original address;
2. executes this command, then reads and executes the next command, etc.
Thus, its job is to sequentially read and execute commands from memory. System memory is configured so that the first instruction the processor reads after a reset will be in the BIOS chip. By sequentially selecting commands from the BIOS, the processor will begin to perform a self-test, or POST, procedure.
After the POST procedure has completed successfully, the BIOS INT 19h software interrupt is called and the search procedure for the boot sector, which can be located on the hard drive or removable media, is started. The order in which devices are polled is set using the BIOS parameters First Boot Device, Second Boot Device and Third Boot Device.
Let's consider an example when the system has the following boot order: the first boot device is a floppy disk (F1 orru), the second is a CD/D VD and the third is a hard drive (HDD-0).
1. The BIOS program will first contact the drive and, having detected the floppy disk, read its first sector, check whether it contains the operating system loader, and transfer control to it. If the floppy disk was formatted as non-system,
then the download will stop with the corresponding message displayed, for example: Non-System disk or disk error. Replace and press any key when ready (To continue loading, you need to remove the floppy disk from the drive and press any key).
2. If there is no floppy disk in the drive, the system will turn to the CD drive. Once the boot CD is detected, the system will boot from it. Moreover, bootable CDs can display various messages during loading. For example, a Windows XP distribution disc displays Press any key to boot from CD, and if you do not press any keys, after a few seconds the system will begin to boot from the device specified next in the boot list.
3. Booting from the HDD will begin if there is no floppy disk in the drive and no bootable CD in the CD drive. In this case, the BIOS accesses the first physical sector of the disk, from where it reads the hard drive's partition table and master boot record (MBR) code. After this, the BIOS finishes its work and transfers control to the MBR code. A hard drive can consist of one or more partitions, and one of them must be marked as active. The program contained in the MBR reads the operating system boot loader, which is located in the first sector of the active partition, and runs it. After this, the main system files begin to load.
In this order, you can boot from any device without changing the BIOS settings. However, for normal computer use, it is advisable to set the BIOS Setup to boot from the hard drive first, since in this case the process will go faster and you will not need to constantly check whether there are disks in the drives.
System status monitoring. BIOS, built-in utilities.
Built-in utilities:
Old IBM PC/XT, which did not have a full-fledged operating system, or loading one was not necessary for the user, called the built-in BASIC language interpreter. Some BIOSes provide additional functionality:
§ Plays audio CDs or DVDs.
§ Updating the BIOS itself (from external media).
§ Using simple browsers.
System monitoring can be done through a special BIOS item.
Computer system error signals. Light, sound, text.
When a hardware error occurs, the computer ( BIOS) issues signals to the built-in speaker. These signals can be decrypted, thereby identifying the cause of the problem; in order to use this data correctly, you need to determine which BIOS.
This can be found out:
1) when the computer boots, the first thing that appears on the screen is the name BIOS;
2) when the computer boots, going to BIOS using the DEL key (or F12, F4, depending on the type BIOS), usually brand BIOS written at the top;
3) if your monitor does not display an image on the screen, you need to open the side cover of the PC and find the chip BIOS on the motherboard, and look at the name on it (usually this is a chip with a shiny sticker).
Below are the transcripts signals various BIOS.
AWARD BIOS Signals
There are no signals. The power supply is faulty or not connected to the motherboard.
Continuous signal. The power supply is faulty.
1 short. No errors found.
2 short. Minor errors found. A prompt appears on the monitor screen to enter the CMOS Setup Utility program and correct the situation. Check that the cables are securely fastened in the hard drive and motherboard connectors.
3 long. Keyboard controller error. Reboot your computer.
1 long + 1 short. Problems with RAM.
1 long + 2 short. A problem with a video card is the most common malfunction. It is recommended to remove the board and reinsert it. Also check your monitor connection.
1 long + 3 short. An error occurred while initializing the keyboard. Check the quality of the connection between the latter and the connector on the motherboard.
1 long+9 short. An error occurred while reading data from the read-only memory chip. Reboot the computer or reflash the contents of the chip.
1 long repeating. Incorrect installation of memory modules.
1 short repeating. Problems with the power supply. Try to remove any dust that has accumulated in it.
Today I will dwell in more detail on what types of BIOS there are, because it is difficult for a novice user to understand this. Although, in fact, everything is quite simple - you just need to understand it a little. Moreover, despite the differences in appearance, in terms of setting up functions and principles of operation, they are all similar. I will tell you what types there are and show it all in pictures.
Currently, there are 3 main types of BIOS, differing by manufacturer.
1.AMI BIOS
American Megatrends inc. - This is probably the oldest developer. AMI BIOS was running back in my childhood on ancient 286 and 386 computers. Then, for some time, this species disappeared. But in recent years it has reappeared, and AMI is the most common type of BIOS on ASUS, MSI, and Lenovo laptops. There are currently two main branches:
- version 2.XX. It looks like this:
This version of AMI BIOS differs from all others in the structure of the main menu and the gray-blue color scheme.
This branch is already externally and in its structure more reminiscent of the classic input-output system from AWARD.
2. Phoenix BIOS, aka Award
Previously, these were two different companies, each producing its own system. Avard's system has been the market leader for many years. But the Phoenix BIOS was not particularly popular among motherboard manufacturers. But then interesting events happen - AWARD Software was purchased by Phoenix. Now it is one company. Here are a few brands:
- Award BIOS
There are almost no differences between them - the interface is completely identical. There is, however, an exception - the Phoenix-Award version for laptops. She looks very similar to AMI:
Today, this type of BIOS is used on 90% of desktop computer motherboards.
Intel puts its own branded BIOS on its branded boards. Or rather, it’s not exactly theirs - it’s a modified version of AMI. For some time, motherboards had the Intel/AMI 6.0 version, and later, when it was even more significantly redesigned, the options were changed and the interface was redesigned - this type of BIOS began to be called Intel.
The latest versions generally became visually more similar to UEFI and were called “Intel Visual BIOS”:
4.UEFI
I’ll start, perhaps, with the most modern type of BIOS - UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface). This is not even a variety, but an heir or successor, as you prefer to call it. UEFI is the next step in BIOS development. Now, in fact, it is no longer just an input-output system - it is more like an operating system, both externally and internally.
Finally added mouse support! Among the key features are an extensible set of capabilities, a pleasant visual interface, the ability to securely boot “Secure Boot”, ease of updating the firmware, and fast loading of the operating system.
Its code is provided to manufacturers of motherboards and finished computers. This section deals with existing BIOS versions.
Companies such as American Megatrends, Inc. specialize in the development of PC-compatible ROM BIOS programs. (AMI), Phoenix Software and Award Software (now owned by Phoenix Software). Motherboard manufacturers obtain licenses from them to install ROM BIOS, after which they can work on the hardware without working on the software. In order to install a ROM memory chip with a recorded BIOS program on the board, the developer has to solve many problems related to the computer design. Achieving compatibility between ROM BIOS and motherboard is not an easy task. There are no universal ROM BIOS chips. AMI, Award, Microid Research and Phoenix provide BIOS variants tailored to specific motherboards to various manufacturers.
The BIOS industry has gone through major changes over the past few years. Intel, the largest customer for BIOS chips, has moved from Phoenix to AMI to Phoenix to AMI. Until 1995, Intel motherboards had a Phoenix BIOS installed. After that, priority shifted to BIOS AMI until 1997 and then back to Phoenix. Finally, in 1999, Intel once again switched to using AMI products. In any case, Intel took the BIOS kernel of one manufacturer or another as a basis, and then modified it for its own needs. Intel is the largest manufacturer of motherboards, so the BIOS used in them is of great importance for the entire computer industry. In short, many computers currently sold have motherboards with AMI or Phoenix BIOS.
In mid-1998, Phoenix acquired the Award company, and now new programs developed by it will be sold under these trademarks. Award BIOS is now sold as a standard product, while Phoenix BIOS is aimed at high-end, high-end systems. Thus, today the BIOS market is largely divided between the two largest manufacturers - AMI and Phoenix, but the leading company in the field of BIOS development is Phoenix. It not only develops new BIOS for the latest generations of computers, but also introduces new standards.
Another current trend is the creation of separate BIOS models for desktop and mobile systems, 32- and 64-bit servers, as well as for embedded devices. All BIOS chips perform the same functions to varying degrees, but mobile-optimized BIOSes support docking modules and advanced power management, while server BIOSes provide hardware monitoring and 64-bit PCI slot monitoring capabilities. Creating specialized BIOS versions for different types of computers allows you to implement features specific to specific platforms, providing them with better performance and reliability.
Many computer system manufacturers contract with AMI and Phoenix to program the BIOS of specific motherboards and chipsets. However, some of them create their own, independent BIOS systems. These companies include Dell, HP/Compaq, AT&T and Acer. Most often, the BIOS system purchased several years ago from AMI or Phoenix is taken as a basis and the necessary additions are made to it.
Even though the original version of the BIOS system was released by AMI or Phoenix, in this case, its updates will only be available on the website of the computer or motherboard manufacturer, since only he is responsible for changes and additions made to the base system.
This BIOS system occupies a leading position on the market today. Some versions are called Hi-Flex due to the increased flexibility of BIOS configuration. AMI's Hi-Flex BIOS is used by many large companies such as Hewlett-Packard. One of the distinctive features of AMI is that it is the only BIOS manufacturer that produces its own motherboards and other computer hardware components.
Any version of AMI BIOS, after turning on the computer during self-test, displays the first identification line of messages in the lower left corner of the screen, immediately below the copyright information. This line reports the BIOS version as well as some system settings determined by the built-in BIOS setup utility.
Advice!
To prevent this line from disappearing, you can turn off the keyboard before turning on the power, or hold down a key while turning on the power. This will be interpreted as a keyboard error and the line will remain on the screen.
You can also download an identification utility from http://www.ami.com/support/mbid.cfm, which will show an information line displayed during download.
If you press the key during POST
The capabilities of AMI BIOS are very large. It contains a setup program that is called up using the key
A unique feature of the AMI BIOS is the built-in, menu-driven diagnostic program - a shortened version of the AMIDIAG program. Of course, it will not replace serious diagnostic programs, but in critical cases it can be useful. This program does not, for example, perform a full memory test; Formatting of the hard drive is carried out at the BIOS level, and not at the controller register level. This limits the ability of the BIOS to format severely damaged drives. Most newer AMI BIOS versions do not offer full diagnostic functionality.
AMI has published a detailed version of the BIOS documentation called the Programmer's Guide to the AMIBIOS, published by Windcrest/McGraw-Hill (ISBN 0-07-001561-9). This book, written by AMI engineers, covers all BIOS features, capabilities, error codes, etc. Unfortunately, this manual has been out of print, although it can still be found in retail stores (particularly on Amazon.com).
AMI only releases BIOS updates for its own motherboards. If the motherboard is from a different manufacturer, the BIOS has likely been modified, so any updates may be available from the manufacturer or from third-party BIOS providers such as eSupport.com.
With the light hand of the Phoenix company, the Award BIOS models were first called FirstBIOS, but now the name reflects the names of the creator and owner - Pnoenix Award BIOS. They support all possible functions, including a built-in setup program that can be activated by simply pressing a specific key (the relevant information is usually displayed on the screen). Because POST only supports a few beep codes, a special POST card may be required to identify problems. Phoenix offers technical support on its website at www.phoenix.com. eSupport.com also offers limited Award BIOS updates for select systems.
Phoenix BIOS is currently licensed under the SecureCore and TrustedCore trademarks. For many years it has been the standard of compatibility against which products from other companies are compared. Phoenix was one of the first to legally redesign the IBM BIOS using the “clean room” method. A group of engineers studied the IBM BIOS and came up with a list of the software's capabilities and requirements that it must satisfy.
This information was passed on to another group of engineers who were not familiar with the IBM BIOS. This way they could legally develop a new BIOS that met the specifications provided by the first group. The resulting system was original and was not a copy of the IBM BIOS, but it functioned similarly.
Phoenix BIOS has its own setup program, usually activated using the key
Phoenix also published a series of technical references that form the basis of industry BIOS standards. There are three books in this series: System BIOS for IBM PC/XT/AT Computers and Compatibles, CBIOS for IBM PS/2 Computers and Compatibles, and ABIOS for IBM PS/2 Computers and Compatibles. Phoenix reference books contain comprehensive information not only about the Phoenix BIOS, but also about the BIOS of all PC-compatible computers. These reference books are also out of print, but can be found on the secondary market.
Phoenix provides technical support and documentation at www.phoenix.com. For more information, visit eSupport.com.
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