2.4. Where is the BIOS

It is likely that our Linux readers are more accustomed to Intel PCs than to pSeries systems. There are obviously significant differences between them, and we describe them here. Apart from performance or scalability, the differences show at various levels:

  • Processor - PowerPC versus Intel

  • System architecture - CHRP versus PC

  • Firmware - Open Firmware versus BIOS

  • Booting, yaboot versus grub/lilo - a consequence of the difference in firmware

2.4.1. PowerPC

All pSeries systems use processors that implement the PowerPC architecture. Chips based on this architecture can also be found in the Apple Macintosh (G3, G4, G5) and in many embedded systems from various manufacturers. You can even find PowerPC chips in game consoles. More ...

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