congatec System Utility - cgutil

by Arthur Besler

Introduction

The congatec System Utility is a unified tool for all congatec COM (Computer-on-Module) and SBC (Single Board Computer) products.

It includes six main modules:

BIOS Update Module Allows updating the system BIOS on a congatec board.
Firmware Update Module Enables firmware updates for the congatec board controller.
Panel Configuration Module Simplifies configuration of local flat panel displays.
BIOS Module Modification Module Offers functions to customize a standard congatec system BIOS by adding OEM defined BIOS modules, such as:
- Boot logos
- BIOS setup defaults and settings
- OEM code or data modules
BIOS/Board Information Module Provides access to congatec-specific BIOS and hardware information.
BIOS Setup Configuration Module Allows modification of the BIOS setup menu.

The utility supports two modes:

Board Mode Run the utility directly on a congatec system. It uses the CGOS API and drivers to access hardware directly. BIOS modifications are written straight to the onboard BIOS Flash memory.
BIOS File Mode Perform changes on a BIOS file, which can later be flashed to the target board. This mode can run on a standard host PC but is limited to BIOS module modifications and some panel configuration functions that alter the BIOS.

Modifying the BIOS can lead to corruption. To prevent permanent damage:

Always test modifications using a congatec evaluation baseboard.
Make sure to back up the original BIOS to the external Flash memory on the baseboard.
If the onboard BIOS becomes corrupted, you can recover the system by booting from the external Flash and restoring the original BIOS.

For a copy of the original BIOS file to store on your baseboard, please contact congatec support.