Slashdot Mirror

← Back to Stories (view on slashdot.org)

Phoenix BIOSOS?

Posted by timothy on from the which-layer-does-what dept.

jhfry writes "In an interesting development by an unexpected source, Phoenix Technologies is releasing a Linux-based, virtualization-enabled, BIOS-based OS for computers. They implemented a full Linux distro right on the BIOS chips, and by using integrated virtualization technology, it 'allows PCs and laptops to hot-switch between the main operating system, such as Windows, and the HyperSpace environment.' So, essentially, they are 'trying to create a new market using the ideas of a fast-booting, safe platform that people can work in, but remain outside of Windows.'"

7 of 394 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Wait by russlar · · Score: 5, Funny

    Bioii

    --
    Anybody want my mod points?
  2. Re:yesterdays news by MrEricSir · · Score: 3, Funny

    But if you look at the back of the clock, it always says "MADE IN CHINA."

    --
    There's no -1 for "I don't get it."
  3. MacGyver didn't need no stinkin' BIOS (obligatory) by catmistake · · Score: 4, Funny

    He could boot your OS with a Swiss Army Knife, some duct tape and and old pop top, drawing the electricity needed from a box of old compasses. I guess he's retired from Phoenix by now, though...

    --
    The Admin and the Engineer
  4. Re:...only if the BIOS chip is replaceable. by NicknamesAreStupid · · Score: 5, Funny

    Not without getting arrested, this is a PC world, ya know.

  5. Re:If it works . . . by beav007 · · Score: 5, Funny

    Stop sounding stupid.

    I've tried this with people before, and it never works. Never fear - I have a plan!

    sudo Stop sounding stupid.

  6. Re:If it works . . . by camperdave · · Score: 4, Funny

    I've tried this with people before, and it never works. Never fear - I have a plan!

    sudo Stop sounding stupid.

    beav007 is not in sudoers file. This incident will be reported.

    --
    When our name is on the back of your car, we're behind you all the way!
  7. Re:The Achilles heel of this... by somersault · · Score: 4, Funny

    No no, he said it's "virtually 100% secure", in the same way that I'm virtually a demi-god dwarf thief who destroys his foes by injecting flaming marshmallows up their ass.

    --
    which is totally what she said