Abstract: A computing system is provided which includes a number of processing units, and a switching system coupled with each of the processing units. The switching system includes a memory. Each of the processing units is configured to access data from another of the processing units through the switching system. The switching system is configured to store a copy of the data passing therethrough into the memory as the data passes between the processing units though the switching system. Each of the processing units is also configured to access the copy of the data in the memory of the switching system.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for optimizing the performance of a computer system based on the preferred use of the computer system are described. Upon an indication by the user of the computer system of the primary role, i.e., a file server or a desk top publisher, etc., which the computer is to play, the inventive performance optimization process, which may be implemented as the hardware abstraction layer (HAL) of the operating system (OS), detects the indicated use preference, and updates the system BIOS settings and/or configuration register settings of any other firmware throughout the computer system to optimize the entire computer system for the indicated use of the computer system. A tuning table that maps the use preference to the optimal configuration settings of the BIOS and/or the firmware may be stored in a non-volatile memory for a fast and convenient performance optimization. The optimal configuration settings may be determined empirically for a continuous enhancement of the optimization scheme.

Abstract: A configuration based cooling fan speed controller for use with computers and other heat intensive electronic devices. Methods of using and manufacturing the controller are also disclosed. The cooling fan speed controller generally comprises a EEPROM coupled with firmware controls. If the controller is set in manual mode, a speed input by the computer's manufacturer or service provider is used to set the starting speeds of a device's cooling fans. If the controller is set in auto mode, the device's configuration is detected, and cooling fan start speeds are retrieved from a fan speed table stored in the EEPROM. Once the lowest operating speeds for a device's cooling fans have been selected, the speeds of the device's cooling fans are ramped up or down in response to the temperature sensed by an ambient air temperature sensor. The invention holds audible fan noise to a minimum.