Real-Mode Initialization
The entry point for the kernel is an assembly language routine called rdb_bootstrap(). RDB refers to the remote debugger used internally by Hewlett-Packard. This is the first point in the kernel at which the debugger can start managing the kernel. rdb_bootstrap() turns off interrupts and initializes the interrupt vector table so that we'll be ready to handle any interrupts that come in. It also creates the first procinfo structure, mpproc_info[0], and fills it with information about the monarch. It sets CR24 to point to this procinfo structure. If the kernel is compiled for 64-bit operation and the hardware is 64-bit-capable, rdb_bootstrap() turns on the W-bit in the Processor Status Word to enable wide mode.
rdb_bootstrap() ...
Become an O’Reilly member and get unlimited access to this title plus top books and audiobooks from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers, thousands of courses curated by job role, 150+ live events each month,
and much more.
Read now
Unlock full access