BIOS Update Method Using Backup Memory Block
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing BIOS updating methods can result in system failure if the boot block is damaged during the update process, requiring costly and complex solutions like dual flash memories or automatic detection circuits to maintain system functionality.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves copying the BIOS program code to a backup memory block, updating the code, and restoring the original address, allowing the system to boot from the backup and repair the BIOS without increasing motherboard cost or complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single flash memory is used to store BIOS, then the motherboard cost and area are minimized, but the system becomes vulnerable to boot failure when the boot block is damaged during update
Solution Approach 1:
The flash memory is divided into distinct functional regions: a first region for storing the boot block and a second region for storing the main BIOS. This segmentation allows independent protection and updating of critical boot components, enabling the system to maintain bootability even when the main BIOS is being updated or corrupted.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by clearing the first region (boot block) before updating the BIOS, and by having the updated BIOS include a functional boot block. This ensures that when the update completes, the system has a valid boot block in place, preventing boot failure without requiring additional hardware.
2Reliability
If dual flash memories are disposed on the motherboard to provide backup BIOS, then system reliability is improved, but the motherboard cost and area increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using two separate flash memories, the patent segments a single flash memory into a first region (for boot block) and a second region (for main BIOS). This provides the functional equivalent of having backup BIOS capabilities while using only one physical flash memory component, thereby reducing cost and area.
Solution Approach 2:
The single flash memory performs multiple functions: it stores both the boot block and the main BIOS, and can be updated in place without requiring replacement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate backup flash memories while maintaining system reliability.
3Ease of operation
If automatic detection circuit and dual flash memories are added to switch BIOS automatically, then ease of operation is improved, but the motherboard cost and area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by clearing the first region and writing an updated boot block before completing the BIOS update. This preliminary preparation ensures that the system remains bootable throughout the update process, eliminating the need for automatic detection circuits to switch between BIOS versions.
Solution Approach 2:
The updated BIOS itself contains a functional boot block that enables the system to boot and operate normally. The system serves itself by having the updated BIOS include all necessary boot components, eliminating the need for external detection circuits or manual intervention to maintain bootability during updates.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for updating a basic input/output system (BIOS) and method for repairing the BIOS. A part of a program code of the BIOS is stored in a backup memory block in advance. If the BIOS fails to update, the backup program code can be adopted to start up a computer system and then the BIOS will be repaired.