home
***
CD-ROM
|
disk
|
FTP
|
other
***
search
/
The Arsenal Files 6
/
The Arsenal Files 6 (Arsenal Computer).ISO
/
dosutils
/
msmcw327.zip
/
MR_SMCWA.TXT
< prev
Wrap
Text File
|
1996-01-29
|
17KB
|
405 lines
System BIOS for SuperMicro "P55CWA" motherboard (Intel Triton)
MR BIOS (r) V097B5WS Version 3.27
Copyright (c) 1996, Microid Research, Inc.
MR BIOS is a registered trademark of Microid Research, Inc.
MR CHIPS is a registered trademark of Microid Research, Inc.
Instant! Boot is a trademark of Microid Research, Inc.
Patents Pending.
All Rights Reserved.
Other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ShareWare Version: "Please copy this program in its entirety, without
modification, and pass it on to others. If you like it, please pay for
each copy you install. If you don't pay for it, please uninstall it.
Remember, your purchase is a vote."
License Fee: USD $15.00 per installed copy
Microid Research, Inc.
2336-D Walsh Ave.
Santa Clara, CA, 95051
USA
email: mrbios@mrbios.com
web-site: http://www.mrbios.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MR BIOS (r) Copyright (c) 1996 Microid Research, Inc.
Patents Pending
Advanced buzzword features include:
(1) Plug 'n Play card support.
1a) Auto resource steering
1b) Win95 compatible
(2) PCI and Bridge support.
2a) Auto resource steering
2b) DEC PCI-PCI bridges
(3) Energy Star power management.
3a) APM for Windows and DOS
3b) VESA DPMS video mgmt
3c) SMI and STPCLK
3d) Timewarp correction
(4) Fast-ATA support.
4a) ATA Mode 4/5 (to 20 MB/S)
4b) Built-in CMD-640, OPTi-621 drivers
(5) Enhanced IDE support.
5a) LBA and CHS translations
5b) EDPT Table support
5c) IBM/Microsoft INT13 extensions
5c) 8 discs max, each to 137 GByte
5d) Drive remapping
5e) Boot SCSI (ahead of IDE)
(6) Atapi and Removable IDE.
6a) CD-ROM recognition
6b) SyQuest and Ejectable Media
(7) Enhanced Floppy support.
7a) 4 floppy/tape-drives max
7b) Drive remapping
(8) Enhanced Parallel Port.
8a) SPP, Bidir, EPP, ECP modes
(9) Anti-Virus protection.
(10) Password Security.
(11) PS/2 Mouse support.
(12) Pentium and 6x86 CPU support.
(13) Instant! Boot (tm).
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--- READ THIS FIRST ------ READ THIS FIRST ------ READ THIS FIRST ---
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------
SuperMicro P55CWA - Undocumented Jumper J37
-------------------------------------------
NOTE! There is a jumper (J37) on the P55CWA motherboard that you
will need to change in the course of installation of MR BIOS (r).
If you do not want to do this, or cannot do so, then stop reading
now and abandon loading MR BIOS (r) into your SuperMicro P55CWA...
-----------
Explanation
-----------
With respect to the Flash-ROM, the Super Micro P55CWA motherboard
design closely parallels Intel's Zappa, Endeavor and etc.
(1) The Flash-ROM is a 28F001-BXT that contains a write-protected
"boot-block" whose purpose is to provide failsafe recovery in the
unlikely event the Flash somehow becomes corrupted.
(2) Also, a 2-way jumper (J37) exists on the P55CWA motherboard that
allows the bottom and top halves of the Flash-ROM to be swapped.
The equivalent jumper on Intel designs is used to manually engage
their Failsafe Flash Recovery mode.
With the Intel design, the protected boot-block and jumper are used
collectively to effect a failsafe recovery mode. When the jumper is
manually plugged in the "recovery" position, the Flash's boot-block
is relocated in memory to a position that causes it to take control
when the computer is powered-up. When set this way, the computer
single-mindedly waits for you to insert a recovery diskette that
contains a flash-loader and BIOS image. After completing the Flash
recovery process, you plug the jumper back to its normal position
and things are back to normal.
It appears the Super Micro board was designed to support this same
scheme, but their BIOS vendor had different ideas about how to
implement the recovery mode. The jumper J37 is unused, and the
boot-block always resides in the top-most region of the Flash-ROM.
------------------------
How this Effects MR BIOS
------------------------
There are two important effects to the P55CWA's proprietary way of
doing things.
First, it precludes use of any Failsafe Flash Recovery program except
one compatible with their original BIOS. Per Super Micro's manual,
you can download it from their BBS at (408) 451-1114.
Second, the protected "boot-block" is located in a position that
interferes with normal operations of MR BIOS. The MR BIOS Flash
Loader Utility was therefore customized to load the BIOS around this
write-protected "boot-block". Upon completion of loading MR BIOS
into the Flash-ROM, you will need to change the position of jumper
J37 in order to relocate the "boot-block" out of the way.
------------------------
J37 Location and Setting
------------------------
The jumper J37 is a 3-pin berg-strip which provides two different
settings by plugging pins 1-2 or 2-3. It is found near the back of
the motherboard behind the PCI slots, approximately half-way between
the left and right sides. It is silkscreened "J37", with a single
numeral "1" closest to pin #1. Also, a silkscreened rectangle around
the jumper block has a "cut" corner that indicates pin #1.
From the factory, J37 is plugged [1-2]. This position maps the
"boot-block" to the top region of the Flash-ROM. It is required
to be in this position to run the BIOS supplied by Super Micro.
After loading MR BIOS, J37 needs to be plugged in the [2-3] position.
This relocates the "boot-block" out of the way to the low half of the
Flash-ROM. You will be "reminded" to do this after loading MR BIOS
into the Flash-ROM by the fact that your computer simply won't boot
otherwise.
After loading MR BIOS into the Flash-ROM and setting J37 to [2-3],
you never need to touch it again. The MR BIOS Flash Loader can upload
updated versions of MR BIOS, or it can restore the original backup BIOS
image without replacing the jumper to its factory position.
If you do restore the original BIOS that came with the computer, you
will need to restore the jumper J37 to its original [1-2] position
afterwards.
If you ever have occasion to use Super Micro's Flash Utility, follow
their directions.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------
Contents, Overview and Disclaimer
---------------------------------
Three files are included in this distribution kit.
MR_SMCWA.BIO - MR BIOS (r) System BIOS
MR_SMCWA.TXT - This file you're reading
MR_SMCWA.EXE - Flash Loader Utility
The System BIOS file contains the Microid Research BIOS ("MR BIOS (r)"),
customized for your SuperMicro P55CWA motherboard. The 1995 MR BIOS (r)
core provides the latest state-of-the-art BIOS technologies that automate
your computer's setup and deliver unmatched performance and utility.
Unlike most programs that you are familiar with, the System BIOS does
not execute from disk. Instead, it is stored in a Flash-ROM component
that resides on the motherboard and begins executing immediately upon
powerup. This Flash-ROM can be reprogrammed by means of a Flash Upload
Utility. In order to install MR BIOS (r) in your computer, you'll need
to reprogram its Flash-ROM through use of the Flash Loader utility.
Usual Disclaimer:
-----------------
BE ADVISED THAT THERE IS AN ELEMENT OF DANGER IN REPROGRAMMING THE
COMPUTER'S FLASH SYSTEM BIOS. If the Flash Load procedure begins,
but fails to completely load a valid BIOS image, your computer will be
out of commission and you'll have to have it serviced. The Flash-ROM
will need to be physically replaced with another that contains valid
code. Reasons for the Flash Upload failure include 1) losing power
while the upload is in progress, and 2) specifying and uploading the
wrong file. Needless to say, this would be a horribly disappointing
experience. Microid Research Inc. would most sincerely regret such
a misfortune, however, understand that MICROID RESEARCH INC. DISCLAIMS
ALL RESPONSIBILITY AND LIABILITY FOR THE USE AND CONSEQUENCES OF THE
USE OF THIS PRODUCT. So, please, take your time and be careful!
However...
----------
According to Super Micro's manual, you can obtain a Flash Utility
from their BBS at (408) 451-1114 that presumably supports a failsafe
recovery mode. Microid Research Inc. recommends that you download it
and follow its directions for preparing a failsafe diskette. Please
be advised that Microid Research Inc. has not tested Super Micro's
Flash Utility and will not be responsible for its results.
Jumper J37
----------
Upon completion of loading MR BIOS into your computer's Flash-ROM,
you will need to change the position of a hardware plug on jumper
"J37". If you are unwilling or unable to do so, DO NOT install
MR BIOS into your computer!
The Flash Loader provides a simple menu of 4 options (5, including
"exit"). There are three objectives of this utility. First, it
provides the facility to copy the existing BIOS into a disk-file
for backup purposes. This is option "1. Backup". The companion
function "2. Verify" allows you to confirm the backup file matches
the existing BIOS. Selection "3. Install" is used to copy MR BIOS
into the Flash-ROM. Selection "4. Restore" allows you to replace
the original (backup) BIOS back into the Flash-ROM.
Be sure to backup the original BIOS before uploading MR BIOS into
the Flash-ROM. Otherwise, you won't be able to uninstall MR BIOS
should you want to do so. Even if you're sure you won't, it is a
good practice to retain all original equipment that is supplied with
your computer, "just in case".
The exact steps for uploading MR BIOS are enumerated in the Instructions
section below. Assuming you have followed those instructions and the
upload has just completed, the Flash Loader will display a message
directing you to reset the computer or re-cycle its power. Upon doing
so, you will be greeted with an alarming message that the "CMOS Memory
is Corrupt", and the BIOS Setup Utility will be activated. Don't be
alarmed. The Flash Loader Utility intentionally clears the CMOS to
simulate a factory-new condition and provoke the Setup session.
Upon arriving in the Setup Utility, you will need to reset the time
and date, and manually input the type(s) of Floppy drive(s) in your
computer. Beyond that, everything else will already be set for optimal
performance and you can simply exit by pressing <F10>. Or, you might
browse around and tailor some options like Password Security or Power
Management per your preference. After this Setup session, your computer
will reboot thereafter without any hysterical messages.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------
MR BIOS (r) Installation Instructions
-------------------------------------
Step 1
------
Disable power management in the BIOS Setup Utility.
Step 2
------
Boot your computer "clean", to a non-Protected-Mode DOS environment.
This is easily done by booting a floppy that contains only DOS, but
neither CONFIG.SYS nor AUTOEXEC.BAT.
Step 3
------
Invoke MR_SMCWA.EXE Flash Loader by typing "MR_SMCWA" at the DOS prompt.
Step 4
------
Select option "1. Backup" to make a copy of the original BIOS that
came with the motherboard. It will be generated with the filename
"SMCWA.BAK".
Step 5
------
Select option "2. Verify" to confirm the backup was successful.
The status will be reported to you, either success or failure.
If it worked OK, proceed to Step 6. Else figure out what is wrong
and correct it. Repeat Steps 4 and 5.
Step 6
------
Select option "3. Install" to copy the file "MR_SMCWA.BIO" into
the Flash-ROM. This file contains the actual MR BIOS image. Be
aware that part of what is going on here is the erasure of the
original content of the Flash-ROM.
Step 6a
------
The upload process may take up to 15 eternal seconds, during which
time you are likely to begin worrying. Relax, and do NOT shut off
the power or otherwise disturb the computer.
You'll be notified with a message on the CRT when the upload has
completed.
Step 6b
-------
Turn off the computer's power.
If this is the 1st time you have installed MR BIOS into your computer,
the jumper J37 will currently be plugged in the [1-2] position. Change
it to the [2-3] position.
Turn the computer's power back on.
Step 7
------
The first bootup after loading the new BIOS, you will be directed into
the BIOS Setup Utility. Configure time, date, floppy drive(s) and other
options. Exit by pressing <F10>.
Step 8
------
Win95 Users: In a few installations, Windows 95 has been reported to
"remember" certain properties of the BIOS that has been replaced by
MR BIOS. This can lead to some bewildering behavior. The best rule
of thumb is to unconditionally run Win95's "Hardware Wizard" once after
installing MR BIOS. If weirdness persists, use the sledge-hammer
approach and run Win95's "Setup".
Step 9
------
Enjoy!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------
Un-Installation Instructions
----------------------------
Use the "4. Restore" option to reload "SMCWA.BAK" back into the
Flash-ROM. If you followed the instructions above, this backup
file was created (above, in Step 4) before you installed MR BIOS.
Upon completion, shut off the computer's power, and replace the
jumper J37 to its factory position [1-2].
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------
Revision History
----------------
Microid Research Inc. is grateful for your suggestions, criticisms,
and bug reports. We're proud to share with you evidence of continued
progress and improvements, much to your credit. Thank you!
Ver 3.10 - Original Zappa ED,ZP ShareWare release; with new PnP core.
Ver 3.11 - n/a
Ver 3.12 - Bugfix: PnP core overlapped "manual" setup of PCI interrupts.
Ver 3.13 - n/a
Ver 3.14 - Force bidirectional parallel-port for Nat'l Semi Super-I/O.
Ver 3.15 - n/a
Ver 3.16 - Asymmetric 2M dram support (16M/bank, single-sided).
Ver 3.17 - Limit ATA-disc "auto" to Mode 3. Mode 4 only avail via "manual".
Ver 3.18 - Update for production Cyrix 6x86.
Ver 3.19 - LPT modes: SPP,Bidir,EPP,ECP now user options. (SMC & NSC chips).
Ver 3.20 - Upgrade: Add CMD 646 EIDE built-in driver.
Upgrade: Longer IDE spindown timer values (1,2,5 --> 2,5,10 min).
Upgrade: Provide setup field to disable soundblaster totally.
Workaround: De-enhance disk seeks to eliminate Norton8 complaint.
Workaround: Fix for Adaptec 2940 bios Ver 1.20 bug.
Workaround: Fix for S3 '968 32MB pageframe decode bug.
Workaround: Fix for Supra PnP Modem bug (drop Adaptec 1542CP fix).
Ver 3.21 - Upgrade: Add aggressive "55nS" memory-type option.
Bugfix: Obscure bug in "manual" PCI-Int Setup affects mapping over
bridge of Ints B,C,D (not A) for a few non-Zappa's.
Ver 3.22 - Workaround: Fix for Adaptec 2940 bios Ver 1.21 warm-boot bug.
Workaround: Fix for nVidia/SGS VGA, replicated PCI ROM register.
Workaround: Fix for Holtek asic 8042 bug.
Workaround: Endeavor: Move Pnp-Data-Read port to avoid gameport
decode bug.
Ver 3.23 - Workaround: Apply v3.22 fix to *all* Adaptec PCI devices.
LPT modes: SPP,Bidir,EPP,ECP options for Winbond Super I/O too.
Upgrade: Add "CPU-Pipeline" on/off option (for debug purposes).
Upgrade: RAID-0 disk striping option, interleave 2-8 IDE drives.
Ver 3.24 - Workaround: Disable CPU Pipelining during POST.
Upgrade: Higher performance for Mode4 IDE drives.
Ver 3.25 - Fix: Timing problem with certain 512K pipeline cache modules.
Fix: Incompatibility with WD 719X SCSI controllers.
Ver 3.26 - Workaround: Aha2940 PCI I/O alignment for Chinese OS/2 (TWarp).
Reduced binary bios image to 92K. Changed flash loader, now
does not clear cmos century byte (ref: NDD95).
Ver 3.27 - Workaround: PnP issues with Crystal soundblaster.
Workaround: COM4 port usage by ATI video.
Update: Aggressive CMOS-default memory settings.
Update: Roundup CPU MHz display (cosmetic).
Update: Display dram config in Chipset setup screen.
Update: Performance tweaks for 6x86 CPU.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End document
------------------------------------------------------------------------------