Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus enables the BIOS to be stored on a mass storage device, such as a hard disk, to enable a computer system to be booted even during conditions of disk failure. A fully functional version of the BIOS, such as a first production version of the BIOS, provided on a non-volatile memory device, such as a MASKED ROM memory device or a one time programmable (OTP) memory device, is used to initially boot the computer system. An upgraded or newer version of the BIOS may be loaded into an unprotected area of the hard disk by way of a floppy disk. Initially, during installation, the system checks to determine if the upgraded version of the BIOS is compatible with the computer system and newer than the BIOS version currently stored in the computer system. If so, the upgraded BIOS is copied to the hard disk and treated like any other file. After the BIOS is copied to the hard disk, the system is rebooted to install the upgraded version of the BIOS. In the event of a disk crash, the fully functional or first production version of the BIOS in the OTP device enables the computer system to be rebooted and diagnostics to be run in order to ascertain the cause of the disk failure. By utilizing a fully functional or first production version of the BIOS stored in an OTP device for initial startup, the production cycle for manufacturing a personal computer can be reduced, as well as providing optimal utilization of OTP devices.

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First Claim