Option ROM Characterization via Isolated Execution Environment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The 128 kilobyte limitation in the option ROM region of computer systems is insufficient for modern expansion adapters, leading to inefficient memory allocation and potential gaps in address space due to increased complexity and number of adapters, with existing solutions either requiring user intervention or relying on inaccurate characterization of operating characteristics.
Innovation Solution
Establishing an isolating execution environment for expansion adapters to execute initialization code, identify operating characteristics, and allocate virtual memory address space based on these characteristics, allowing for efficient allocation and utilization of the option ROM region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the option ROM region size is increased to accommodate modern expansion adapters, then the memory capacity is improved, but backward compatibility with earlier computer architectures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimension by implementing option ROMs as separate, loadable modules in system memory rather than being fixed in the traditional 128KB address space. This allows the option ROM region to effectively expand to accommodate modern expansion adapters while maintaining the original 128KB address space boundary for backward compatibility. The system loads option ROM code into available system memory regions dynamically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the option ROM allocation dynamic by allowing the system to allocate memory regions for option ROMs based on actual needs during system initialization. Rather than having a fixed 128KB limit, the system can dynamically allocate larger portions of system memory to option ROMs when needed, and adjust allocations as expansion adapters are added or removed from the system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple expansion adapters are added to increase system functionality, then the adaptability is improved, but the option ROM address space utilization deteriorates due to gaps and holes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic allocation of option ROM memory regions, allowing the system to adjust and optimize memory usage as expansion adapters are added or removed. The system can dynamically allocate contiguous memory regions to multiple option ROMs without leaving gaps, and can reallocate space as adapters are hot-plugged or unplugged, ensuring optimal utilization of the available option ROM address space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal memory allocation mechanism that can accommodate any number and type of expansion adapters. The system uses a standardized approach to allocate option ROM regions that works whether one or multiple adapters are present, eliminating the need for custom allocation schemes for different adapter configurations and preventing gaps in the address space.
3Manufacturing precision
If offline solutions are used to allocate option ROM address space, then the manufacturing precision is improved through manual optimization, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to user intervention requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the system to automatically allocate and configure option ROM address space without requiring user intervention. The system autonomously identifies available memory regions, allocates appropriate space to each expansion adapter's option ROM, and manages the allocation dynamically as adapters are added or removed, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining optimal allocation accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors the state of expansion adapters and adjusts option ROM allocations accordingly. The system receives feedback about which adapters are present, their memory requirements, and available system memory, then automatically optimizes the allocation to achieve precise space utilization without user input.
4Ease of operation
If online solutions are implemented to automatically allocate option ROM address space, then the ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to inaccurate characterization of operating characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the system perform detailed characterization of each expansion adapter's option ROM requirements during the initialization phase, before actual allocation occurs. The system pre-identifies memory requirements, compatibility constraints, and optimal allocation strategies for each adapter, ensuring accurate measurement of operating characteristics before making allocation decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual or approximate characterization methods with automated system-level measurement and analysis. The system uses software-based tools to precisely measure and characterize option ROM requirements, substituting mechanical or manual assessment processes with automated computational methods that provide more accurate characterization of adapter-specific memory needs and constraints.
Data Source
AI summary
A design structure embodied in a machine readable storage medium for designing, manufacturing, and/or testing a design is disclosed for option ROM characterization by establishing an isolating execution environment for an expansion adapter of a computer, the adapter having an option ROM containing initialization code for the adapter, executing the initialization code for the expansion adapter in the isolating execution environment, identifying operating characteristics of the option ROM, including characteristics of the option ROM unavailable prior to execution of the initialization code in the isolating execution environment, and allocating virtual memory address space in a normal execution environment of the computer to the option ROM of the expansion adapter in dependence upon the identified operating characteristics of the option ROM.