Abstract: A utility with a windows interface with which a single original-equipment-manufacturer (OEM) programmer can generate firmware compatible with the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) specification. The firmware includes an ACPI name space, i.e., a hierarchical tree structure in operating system-controlled memory containing data objects, control method objects, and bus/device package objects. The hierarchical name space is constructed using a "click and drag" methodology, and is represented in the windows interface as a iconographic tree structure. From the root of the tree structure are branches for general purpose events, processor power control, sleep states, the system bus, and temperature controls. The system bus has branches for devices located thereon, and the devices have branches for folders containing current resource settings, hardware identification, possible resource settings, and set resource settings information.

Abstract: A method and system of communicating with a computer through a network prior to booting the computer's operating system or after operating system failure is provided. A multitasking kernel is implemented in a network enhanced BIOS. External references in a NIC device driver are resolved to reference services provided by the network enhanced BIOS. A workstation coupled to the computer through a network may be used to access and set status on the computer prior to loading the operating system or after operating system failure. The multitasking kernel may be operated simultaneously with a conventional BIOS. The computer may be further provided with a means for alerting the workstation in the event of a POST failure or operating system crash.