1992-04-17
1994-12-20
Richardson, Robert L.
395162, G06F 1300, G06F 314
Patent
active
053752104
ABSTRACT:
A mechanism and method for setting display modes in computer systems associates a unique mode data set and identity (ID) function to each type of display monitor that is supported for attachment to the system. At system installation, mode data sets associated with all monitor types then supported by the system are stored on the system's hard disk in association with each video adapter currently active in the system and with the ID functions of the respective monitor types. Connectors which attach monitors to the system are constructed to provide indications of respective ID functions. Each connector has m ID indicating pins (m>1) which can be sensed by the system and used to form ID functions n bits long (where n is greater than m). Each time the system is powered on after installation, the ID function of the currently installed monitor, and other key data associated with the currently installed video adapter(s), are sensed and stored in a predefined location in system memory accessible to the system BIOS. When software that needs to control the monitor is first executed by the system, the software issues a predetermined BIOS function call causing the system BIOS to pass the stored ID and other key data to that software. Thereafter, while still active in the system, the software uses the ID to retrieve the associated mode data, and the mode data and the other key data to set operating modes in the installed video adapter and monitor. The BIOS call serves to isolate the software from system changes made subsequent to creation of the software. Storage of mode data sets and use of extended length ID's as disclosed presently allows the system to adjust efficiently to new monitor types and to support many more types than it otherwise could.
REFERENCES:
patent: 5038301 (1991-08-01), Thoma, III
patent: 5257350 (1993-10-01), Howard et al.
IBM Technical Disclosure Bulletin, vol. 33, No. 5, Oct., 1990, pp. 289-291, New York, US; A. J. Morrish: "Improved Method of Monitor Identifiction and Mode Control".
IBM Technical Disclosure Bulletin, vol. 33, No. 6B, Nov., 1990, pp. 83-85, New York, US; D. A. Canton et al.: "Improvements to Display Identification".
IBM Technical Disclosure Bulletin, vol. 33, No. 6A, Nov., 1990 p. 351, New York, US; D. A. Canton et al.: "Monitor Identification Range Extension".
Monnes Peter J.
Wilkinson James G.
International Business Machines Corp.
McKinley Martin J.
Richardson Robert L.
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