rtd cpuModules CMA24BT, User Manual

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BDM-610000087 Rev A Chapter 4: Using the cpuModule 75
Features and Settings That Can Affect Boot Time
The boot time of a system is dependent upon numerous system settings as well as devices attached to a
system. This section addresses some devices and settings that can increase or decrease a system’s boot time.
Boot Device Order
The BIOS contains a list of devices to try booting from. If you wish to boot to a particular device (for
example, a hard drive), make sure that it is first in the boot order. This will speed up boot times.
Add-On Cards With BIOS Extensions
Some add-on cards have an integrated BIOS extension. The most common examples are SCSI controllers
and network cards with boot ROMs. During POST, the BIOS executes the card's extension code. This
extension code is third-party code, which is beyond RTD's control. The BIOS extension will most likely
increase the boot time. Exactly how much it increases boot time will depend on the particular card and
firmware version.
VGA Controller
VGA controllers have a VGA BIOS that must be initialized during POST. It can take some time to initialize
the VGA BIOS. Exactly how long will depend on the particular VGA controller and BIOS version.
Hard Drive Type
During Hard Drive initialization, each device must be probed. Some devices take longer to probe. 2.5-inch
hard drives tend to take longer than 3.5-inch ones, because they spin at a lower RPM.
Monitor Type
Some monitors take a while to power on. Desktop flat panels are especially slow. This does not affect the
actual boot time of the CPU. However, the CPU may boot before the monitor powers on.