Abstract: A system and method generate a read only memory (ROM) image for a ROM. The ROM image generator operates with a data image builder. The ROM image generator processes an input file to identify data images for a build. The image identifier generates tokens for building each data image. A data image builder uses the tokens as an input to build each data image. A ROM image builder builds the ROM image using each data image build and generates a data image build validating signature for each data image build, such as a checksum. Once each data image build and associated validating signature is written to the ROM image, the ROM image is completed with a checksum of the entire ROM image.

Abstract: A system for providing notification, to the associated operating system, of removal and replacement of I/O devices during operation of a multiprocessor computer system running multiple operating systems. The system includes a plurality of cells, each containing multiple RISC processors, low-level I/O firmware, a local service processor, scratch RAM, external registers, a memory and I/O manager, and interfacing hardware. Each partition comprises one or more cells and runs its own operating system (OS). Each cell is connected to a peripheral backplane containing a plurality of peripheral I/O card slots via a switch on the system backplane, which also connects the cell to a supervisory processor, which sends card slot status information to the appropriate cell. Each I/O (typically PCI) card slot has an associated latch which provides an indication, to the supervisory processor, that a platform event has occurred.

Abstract: The time required to boot a computer is reduced by reducing or eliminating the need to discover many or all devices within the computer and the machine topology. Access panels are monitored so that it is detected when they are opened. For the access panels that have not been opened, it is assumed that the system configuration, topology, devices, etc. have not changed since the last boot process and there is no need to spend time discovering these devices and machine topology. Stored, instead of discovered, configuration information is then used to configure these devices. This reduces the time required to boot since discovery of devices is not performed. A service processor or other logic may be used to detect which access panels are opened. Also, only those elements of the configuration that may be affected by the particular access panels that were opened need to be re-discovered.