Abstract: A personal computer system is disclosed which is compatible with application programs and operating system software. The personal computer system includes a microprocessor electrically coupled to a data bus, non-volatile memory electrically coupled to the data bus, volatile memory electrically responsive to the data bus, a memory controller electrically coupled to the microprocessor, the volatile memory and the non-volatile memory, and a direct access storage device electrically responsive to the data bus. The non-volatile memory stores a first portion of operating system microcode and the volatile memory includes a volatile operating system portion intended for use by the first portion of the operating system microcode. The memory controller regulates communications between the volatile memory, the non-volatile memory and the high speed microprocessor. The direct access storage device stores a second portion of operating system microcode which includes a plurality of modules.

Abstract: A personal computer system which is compatible with application programs and operating system software is disclosed. The personal computer system includes a microprocessor electrically coupled to a data bus, non-volatile memory electrically coupled to the data bus, volatile memory electrically responsive to the data bus, a memory controller electrically coupled to the microprocessor, the volatile memory and the non-volatile memory, and, a direct access storage device electrically responsive to the data bus. The non-volatile memory stores a first portion of operating system microcode and request information which indicates whether a second portion of operating system microcode is required by the personal computer system. The volatile memory includes a volatile operating system portion intended for use by the first portion of the operating system microcode. The memory controller regulates communications between the volatile memory, the non-volatile memory and the high speed microprocessor.