Method and apparatus for updating boot code using a system controller
US7024551B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 7, 2003 |
| Grant date | Apr 4, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F11/2038
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Method and apparatus are disclosed that allow boot code within the apparatus to be updated using a system controller. The apparatus includes a central processing unit (CPU) and a programmable memory that contains boot code at a predetermined location for use in booting the CPU. The apparatus further includes a bus and a bus master for the bus. The CPU accesses the boot code via the bus and the bus master. The apparatus further includes a system controller. This is operable to write boot code into the programmable memory over the bus. In one embodiment, the above components form a single subsystem within an array of such subsystems. A single control point for the array can transmit updated boot code to the system controller for loading into the programmable memory. This then provides a single interface for simultaneously updating the boot code in all subsystems.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.