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Overview of BIOS Features
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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.
For information about Refer to
The Desktop Boards’ compliance level with SMBIOS Section 1.3, page 16
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.
5. The operating system loads. While the operating system is loading, USB keyboards and mice
are recognized and may be used to configure the operating system. (Keyboards and mice are
not recognized during this period if Legacy USB support was set to Disabled in the BIOS
Setup program.)
6. After the operating system loads the USB drivers, all legacy and non-legacy USB devices are
recognized by the operating system, and Legacy USB support from the BIOS is no longer
used.