Debugging Apparatus Using Bus Selection for POST Code Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing debugging methods for computer systems are time-consuming and inconvenient, requiring physical access to the motherboard and occupation of extra space for reserved interface ports, which hinders efficient debugging.
Innovation Solution
A debugging apparatus and method that detects a connected debugging unit and selects an available bus within the computer system to output POST codes, eliminating the need for reserved ports and allowing for external debugging without casing removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If reserved interface ports are used for transmitting POST codes to external inspection equipment, then debugging functionality is achieved, but motherboard space is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing system buses (LPC, USB, PCI, etc.) serve dual purposes: their original functions plus POST code transmission for debugging. The chipset controller detects when a debugging unit is connected and automatically uses the available bus for POST code output, eliminating the need for dedicated reserved ports while maintaining full debugging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects the connection of a debugging unit and self-configures to use an appropriate existing bus for POST code transmission. The chipset controller identifies which bus is electrically connected to the debugging unit and routes POST codes through that bus without requiring manual configuration or additional hardware resources
2Ease of operation
If a debugging card is inserted to the motherboard for testing, then POST code transmission is achieved, but the casing must be removed and the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical insertion method (physically inserting a debugging card into the motherboard after removing the casing) with an electrical/detector-based system. The chipset controller automatically detects the debugging unit connection through electrical signals and configures the appropriate bus for POST code transmission, eliminating the need for physical access to the motherboard
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of the debugging unit connection status before POST code transmission begins. The chipset controller identifies which bus is connected to the debugging unit in advance and pre-configures the transmission path, so that debugging can start immediately without time-consuming manual intervention
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a debugging apparatus for a computer system and a method thereof. A detecting unit detects if a debugging unit connects to the computer system. When a debugging unit connects to the computer system, the detecting unit produces a detecting signal, which contains information of a bus in the computer system electrically connected with the debugging unit. Then a selection unit selects the bus electrically connected with the debugging unit according to the detecting signal. Besides, a testing unit tests the computer system and produces a power-on self-test (POST) code, so that the selected bus can be used for outputting the POST code to the debugging unit. Thereby, the present invention can choose to use the bus reserved in the computer system for outputting the POST code to the debugging unit, and hence facilitating inspection personnel to debug the computer system.