Service Processor SP Power Off Command BIOS Data Transaction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack the ability for a service processor (SP) to initiate data transactions with a host computer's BIOS without the BIOS initiating the transaction first, limiting the SP's capability to proactively manage and communicate with the host computer's hardware.
Innovation Solution
The SP generates a power off command and sends it to the host computer, allowing it to initiate data transactions by entering system management mode (SMM) and using IPMI OEM messages to perform data transactions through standardized interfaces like KCS or USB, enabling bi-directional data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the BIOS initiates data transactions with the SP, then the SP can receive and send data, but the SP cannot proactively initiate data transactions with the BIOS
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional transaction initiation model by having the SP send a power off command to the host computer, which then triggers the BIOS to initiate a response transaction back to the SP. This inversion allows the SP to effectively start data transactions without requiring direct SP-to-BIOS initiation capability, resolving the contradiction between SP主动性 and system architecture constraints.
2Productivity
If the SP sends power off command to enter SMM, then data transactions can be performed, but the host computer enters system management mode which may affect normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses preliminary action by having the SP send a power off command that is actually a prearranged signal to enter SMM mode, rather than a genuine power off request. The BIOS recognizes this specific command pattern and transitions to SMM without actual power loss, allowing data transactions to occur while maintaining system operational readiness, thus resolving the contradiction between transaction capability and operational continuity.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain aspects direct to systems and methods to perform service processor (SP) initiated data transaction with a host computer utilizing power off commands. In certain embodiments, the system includes a SP, which includes a processor, a non-volatile memory and a communication interface. The SP generates a first power off command for a data transaction purpose, and sends the first power off command to the host computer to initiate a data transaction. The OS, in response to the first power off command, calls an Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) Machine Language (AML) code, which execute a system management interface (SMI) handler at the CPU to enter a system management mode (SMM). The SMI handler then sends a notification to the SP via the communication interface. In response to receiving the notification from the SMI handler, the SP starts performing the data transaction with the host computer.