Super I/O Module USB BIOS Update Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for updating BIOS code in computer systems require physically removing and re-soldering the ROM, which is complex and prone to errors, and does not allow for BIOS code updates without disassembling the computer.
Innovation Solution
A super I/O module that uses a USB port to transmit and update the BIOS code to a flash memory within the computer system, utilizing a processor and switch to control the USB connection and facilitate the update process without opening the housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the traditional method of updating BIOS code is used, then the BIOS code can be updated, but the process requires physically removing and re-soldering the ROM, which increases device complexity and operation difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a USB host controller as an intermediary device between the external USB storage device and the flash memory. This mediator enables data transfer without requiring physical access to the ROM chip, thereby simplifying the update process while maintaining the ability to update BIOS code.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical soldering process with an electrical data transfer process through USB interface. Instead of physically removing and re-soldering the ROM, the system uses electrical signals to transfer BIOS code from USB storage to flash memory, eliminating the need for mechanical manipulation of components.
2Productivity
If the traditional method of updating BIOS code is used, then the BIOS code can be updated, but the process requires opening the housing and de-soldering components, which increases the time required for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The USB host controller acts as a mediator that enables remote data transfer to the flash memory. This eliminates the need for physical access to internal components, allowing maintenance personnel to update BIOS code from outside the housing, thereby reducing maintenance time and improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary preparation of BIOS code updates on external USB storage devices before actual installation. The flash memory can be programmed with the updated BIOS code through the USB interface without requiring immediate physical intervention, allowing for more efficient maintenance workflows.
3Reliability
If the traditional method of updating BIOS code is used, then the BIOS code can be updated, but the risk of errors increases due to manual soldering operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual soldering operations with automated electrical data transfer through the USB interface. This substitution eliminates human error in soldering operations while maintaining the ability to update BIOS code, thereby improving reliability without increasing operational difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The USB host controller serves as a reliable intermediary that handles data transfer between external storage and the flash memory. This controlled electrical interface provides more reliable and consistent data transfer compared to manual soldering, reducing the risk of errors while keeping the update process simple for users.
Data Source
AI summary
A super input/output (I/O) module for controlling a universal serial bus (USB) port of a computer system is provided. The super I/O module includes a USB host, a switch and a processor. The switch selectively couples the USB port of the computer system to the USB host or a controller of the computer system according to a switching signal. When a trigger event occurs, the processor provides the switching signal to control the switch, so as to couple the USB port of the computer system to the USB host and to transmit a basic input/output system (BIOS) code to a flash memory of the computer system via the switch and the USB port.