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Intel® Entry Server Board SE7221BA1-E TPS
7.5
System Management BIOS (SMBIOS)
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, 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.
7.6
Legacy USB Support
Legacy USB support enables USB devices 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.
To install an operating system that supports USB, verify that Legacy USB support in the BIOS
Setup program is set to Enabled and follow the operating system's installation instructions.
Revision 1.5
System BIOS
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