Computer system using posted memory write buffers in a bridge to implement system management mode

摘要

A computer system using posted memory write buffers in a bridge can implement the system management mode without faulty operation. The system management interrupt acknowledge signal is posted in bridge buffers so that any previously posted memory write commands currently held in a posted memory write buffer in the bridge execute prior to the appearance of the posted system management interrupt acknowledge signal. In this way, devices on a downstream bus will not be confused by the occurrence of posted memory write transactions into mistaking such transactions for system management mode operations. In this way, both bridges having posted write buffers and the system management mode may be utilized in efficient joint operation.