In general, Linux just needs some of the hardware (cpu registers, chipset,
super i/o, pci bridge, etc.) to have been initialised, and it needs a few
basic services (int 10h, int 13h, a couple of int 15h services,...)
The Geode is a bit special in that the BIOS normally includes a binary
component called the VSA, and of course a VGA BIOS
The VSA runs in system management mode and virtualises some of the hardware
e.g. the sound and graphics devices.
There is some relationship between the VGA BIOS and the VSA too.
I don't think NS make the VSA generally available.
We have produced a customised (General Software) embedded BIOS for a Geode
design. We have also produced boot-loaders for booting Linux without a BIOS
for other x86 designs. From my experience, I would not recommend writing
your own boot-loader unless you can live without graphics and sound.
Paul Robertson
LocSoft Ltd
www.locsoft.com
----- Original Message -----
From: "Benjamin Chow" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Saturday, November 18, 2000 2:20 AM
Subject: Linux and the BIOS
> Hi,
>
> I'm looking to bring linux to a custom single board computer based on
> National Semiconductor's GEODE reference designs.
>
> My question is: what is the relationship between linux and the BIOS?
> Does linux use BIOS calls to interface to hardware or can it be made to
talk
> directly to the hardware?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Ben
>
>
>
>
>
> Benjamin Chow
>
> Software Developer
> IDEO \/ Product Development
> 700 High St \/ Palo Alto \/ Ca \/ 94301
> \P/650-289-3576
> \F/650-289-0253
>
>
> --
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