Tiny BIOS takes on an expanding role

Article Abstract:

The basic input/output system (BIOS) of a PC has traditionally not received huge attention, although it has always played a key role interfacing the operating system software with general hardware operations. However, the architectural complexity of PCs is growing, and the BIOS has taken on more to accommodate new architectures, including VESA, PCI and the Extended IDE peripheral interface. Currently, BIOS suppliers must deal with more PC concepts, such as shared memory architectures, running reconfiguration and Plug-and-Play configuration. Many BIOS vendors are working quickly to emerge as the first to completely support the new PC system features, and many are creating strategic alliances. In addition, many suppliers are seeking support from big producers of semiconductors, PCs, and operating system software. As an illustration, BIOS firm Phoenix Technologies has a recent licensing pact with Intel. Observers contend that the biggest trend impacting BIOS suppliers is Plug-and-Play support.

Innovations, BIOS, BIOS (Basic input output system)

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Wireless power amplifiers get the GaAs treatment; material's high-frequency, low-power operation is especially attractive in battery-driven handsets

Article Abstract:

Gallium-arsenide devices are expected to increase in use due to their employment in wireless communications products where low power demands and high-frequency ranges are needed. Market research firm Strategies Unlimited expects that sales of RF power amplifiers in wireless equipment will increase to $297 million in 2000 compared to $220 million in 1995, with 90% of those devices incorporated GaAs. There is a trend towards PCS products incorporating different chip sets which optimize different parts of the spectrum band. GaAs is often used for equipment operating at frequencies of 1.9GHz or higher. Its adoption has been somewhat limited by higher overall prices, but some analysts believe that someday GaAs prices will be more even with silicon. GaAs technology also has substantial start-up costs and is difficult to produce beyond 3-inch wafers.

Equipment and supplies, Wireless communications, Wireless network, Wireless LANs, Mobile communication systems, Power regulator, Power regulators

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The battle over UMA begins to heat up

Article Abstract:

The Unified Memory Architecture (UMA) is the standard soon to be approved by the Video Electronics Standards Assn (VESA). The standard is getting resistance from Intel and Microsoft. Intel is resisting because though UMA offers a savings in cost, it also takes a performance hit on Pentium-based systems of up to 20%. The reason for degradation in performance is because UMA uses system RAM for its video buffer, thereby making it unavailable to the CPU. Analysts say that UMA makes sense at the low-end of the market where cost is an issue, such as the home computer PC market. The architecture can reduce the cost of parts by between $30 and $170 by obviating the need for 1MB to 2MB of DRAM required for graphics. Only manufacturers benefit, however, not end-users, since UMA results in performance degradation.

Processor architecture, Processor architectures

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