VMWare 6.5 build 118166

[vbguy]

Can anyone mod this newest VMWare bios with the ASUS SLIC?

I tried doing it myself using that PDF tutorial, but it wouldn't boot.

Here's the untouched bios:

http://depositfiles.com/files/8204874

[urie]

you can find bioses here http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showpost.php?p=34398&postcount=15
mabey not for latest version but it should work bios has probably not been updated in new VM-Ware

[vbguy]

The bios has changed, that's why I was asking. The VMWare will function with the old bios, but with reduced functionality.

The links you posted are for old versions of the VMWare, and the tutorial that tells how to mod the VMWare bios is also old and doesn't apply to this new bios.


So, the request still stands. Does anyone know how to mod this newer bios?

[reginakampher]

The BIOS is definitely different. I did a test mod and it worked and confirmed on WS2008 Standard edition. It will work also for Vista and XP. I will polish up the mod and upload it if you want. I inserted Dell SLIC and the following SLP 1.0 strings:
"Dell System"
"Dell Inc"
"Dell Computer"
"Dell Quanta"

Instructions are pretty much the same as the tutorial. Let me know.

[vbguy]

That would be great. I await the upload.

[reginakampher]

Here it is:

VMware Workstation 6.5.0 build-118166

SLP 1.0 string inserted = "Dell System", "Dell Computer", "Dell Inc", "Dell Quanta"
SLIC inserted = DELL PE_SC3

Modded BIOS only:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/5kzai4jncgu/6006_DELL-PE_SC3.ROM
Modded BIOS integrated into vmware-vmx.exe:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/nzdnt3jwhhg/vmware-vmx_DELL-PE_SC3.exe



SLP 1.0 string inserted = "IBM CORPORATION", "LENOVO"
SLIC inserted = LENOVOTP-79

Modded BIOS only:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/jumguzummnd/6006_LENOVOTP-79.ROM
Modded BIOS integrated into vmware-vmx.exe:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/n1ummztmzyn/vmware-vmx_LENOVOTP-79.exe



SLP 1.0 string inserted = "Gateway", "EMACHINES"
SLIC inserted = GATEWASYSTEM

Modded BIOS only:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/w2ogmnqjoww/6006_Gateway.ROM
Modded BIOS integrated into vmware-vmx.exe:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/izjvk2qimuj/vmware-vmx_Gateway.exe



SLP 1.0 string inserted = "ASUSTeK Pegasus", "ASUS_FLASH"
SLIC inserted = _ASUS_Notebook

Modded BIOS only:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/2twwj3qjwyw/ASUS.ROM
Modded BIOS integrated into vmware-vmx.exe:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/i4mimnng1mz/vmware-vmx_ASUS.exe

[urie]

@ reginakampher, is SLIC inserted = Dell (DELL PE_SC3) a new Dell slic mines is Dell FX09 will that matter ?

[reginakampher]

Yes, it is a new Dell SLIC reportedly retrieved from a server 2008 (thanks to TheOneAndOnly) and it doesn't matter. They both use the same certificate.

[zillac]

for reasons I don't know, phoenix bios editor wouldn't run on my machine.

Could you please also make another mod with Lenovo TP-79 SLIC?
(can be found here LENOVOTP-79 (http://rapidshare.com/files/91964411/LENOVOTP-79.zip))

Thanks in advance

[reginakampher]

Links updated with Lenovo TP-79 mod.
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showthread.php?p=37143

[Diatomacious]

Here it is:

VMware Workstation 6.5.0 build-118166

SLP 1.0 string inserted = "Dell System", "Dell Computer", "Dell Inc", "Dell Quanta"
SLIC inserted = DELL PE_SC3


Hi Reginakampher,

I was wondering if you would be kind enough to mod the VMware bios with a Gateway SLIC. I've tried it myself following the PDF outlining the process but I get lost in the "search for RSDT" part and this bios is different than the one used in the document.

Thanks in advance :)


PS - The .rom file alone is all I need. I'm running on a x64 environment and the .exe's aren't the same.

[reginakampher]

Links updated with the Gateway mod.
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showthread.php?p=37143

[Diatomacious]

Thanks regina,

I used the Dell mod to register with Vista and it worked great! I still haven't quite got the hang of XP yet, it seems much more difficult to activate as OEM than Vista since you actually have to build a separate disk for each OEM.

One final question about SLP1.0. Is including the following strings in the bios all that is involved with SLP1.0? ie. no extra OEM tables like SLIC involved?

SLP 1.0 string inserted = "Dell System", "Dell Computer", "Dell Inc", "Dell Quanta"

Thanks again for the bios rom mods. I'm running on a Gateway OEM machine and this should make things much simpler for me :)

[reginakampher]

..........One final question about SLP1.0. Is including the following strings in the bios all that is involved with SLP1.0? ie. no extra OEM tables like SLIC involved?..................
Yes, just the proper strings are all that's needed for XP activation.

[nasa]

...I still haven't quite got the hang of XP yet, it seems much more difficult to activate as OEM than Vista since you actually have to build a separate disk for each OEM.


Have a look here http://www.msfn.org/board/OEMScan-Automated-Multi-t82638.html

[machunter46]

Here it is:

VMware Workstation 6.5.0 build-118166

SLP 1.0 string inserted = "Dell System", "Dell Computer", "Dell Inc", "Dell Quanta"
SLIC inserted = DELL PE_SC3

Modded BIOS only:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/5kzai4jncgu/6006_DELL-PE_SC3.ROM
Modded BIOS integrated into vmware-vmx.exe:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/nzdnt3jwhhg/vmware-vmx_DELL-PE_SC3.exe





Can you tell us how to integrate the bios only file in to an unmoded vm-ware.exe file. This is for future use in case of updated file. Thanks

[moondawq]

Hi Reginakampher (and others listening)! :)

Would you be so kind and create a bios file for ASUS also?

Thanks a lot! :)

Best regards,
Jesper

[catimimi]

Hi Reginakampher (and others listening)! :)

Would you be so kind and create a bios file for ASUS also?

Thanks a lot! :)

Best regards,
Jesper

Hello,
I'm interested too.
Thanks in advance.
Michel.

[reginakampher]

Hi Reginakampher (and others listening)! :)

Would you be so kind and create a bios file for ASUS also?

Thanks a lot! :)

Best regards,
Jesper
I'm a little busy with work but I will TRY to have ready for you by Sunday.

[reginakampher]

Hi Reginakampher (and others listening)! :)

Would you be so kind and create a bios file for ASUS also?

Thanks a lot! :)

Best regards,
Jesper
Links updated with the ASUS mod. Didn't have time to test it. Can someone confirm?
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showthread.php?p=37143#post37143

[catimimi]

Links updated with the ASUS mod. Didn't have time to test it. Can someone confirm?
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showthread.php?p=37143#post37143

Hello,
Many thanks reginakampher. I'll try and report today.
Michel.

PS :
ASUS.ROM tested OK, it works fine, Vista remains activated. You are the best.
Thanks again.
Michel.

[pix]

Has anyone got the Dell version working for XP Pro?

I can't get it working with an original Dell install disk or using OEMScan with the B6F0EEFD files and the correct key. No probs with Vista.

[pix]

This is confirmed not working with SLP1.0 - the strings are in the DMI area and they need to be in the bios code for Dell.

I inserted the relevant string at fe076 (there's a hole in the bios here) and now it works fine.

[pcbroch]

This is confirmed not working with SLP1.0 - the strings are in the DMI area and they need to be in the bios code for Dell.

I inserted the relevant string at fe076 (there's a hole in the bios here) and now it works fine.

Any chance you could post the resulting bios image? I tried using Pheonix Bios Edit and it wont even open the rom!

[pix]

PBE2.1 will open it. Avoid 2.2, it produces duff bioses with vmware.

[pcbroch]

PBE2.1 will open it. Avoid 2.2, it produces duff bioses with vmware.

Would you be able to suggest a place where I can find PBE2.1?

[Yen]

What about our bios tools thread?:rolleyes:;)
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showpost.php?p=9700&postcount=7

[cwag17]

I have been trying to mod with no success. cannot get it to work with xp (Dell). Can someone detail exactly what string needs to be entered and where, or better yet just upload a bios!

I have been opening the bios in PBE 2.1, then going to the temp dir and opening the BIOSCOD0.ROM file and it appears there is already something at fe076.

Thanks in advance

[pix]

You need to deduce the mapping between the memory map on the running VM and the raw bios code.

If you fire up a VM running Regina's bios and then look at FE076 in HWDIRECT you will see all zeros. Just after these zeroes is a distictive sequence of bytes. Copy quite a long chunk of these bytes (say 32), starting at FE076 then open up BIOSCOD0.ROM, after opening Regina's rom in PBE2.1, and search for them in a hex editor like hex workshop. Then you will see the location that you need to copy the string into.

You can find the string info you need on this page:

http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showpost.php?p=9751&postcount=12

with an explanation here:

http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showpost.php?p=9754&postcount=13

After you've edited BIOSCOD0.ROM, save it then change something random in PBE like a DMI string then change it back. This will activate the 'build bios' option on the file menu of PBE. After you build it, you'll get a working rom.

[pcbroch]

Pix, thanks for the reply, that did the trick, although oddly, my fe076 mapped to BIOSCOD2.ROM

Now, just for kicks, I tried to do it myself from scratch using the vmware exe, extracting the bios, etc. When I try to build the bios with PBE, it complains that it cannot find the .MOD file to size it. Am I missing a step? (This is after adding the new ACPI section to ROM.SCR).

[cwag17]

Thanks for the info. I was able to successfully mod and now it works with XP!

Thanks Again

[pix]

@pcbroch

Are you using PBE2.1? I haven't experienced this problem. Strange that FE076 mapped into BIOSCOD2 not 0. Maybe it's because I'm using the x64 version of vmware.

[pcbroch]

@pcbroch

Are you using PBE2.1? I haven't experienced this problem. Strange that FE076 mapped into BIOSCOD2 not 0. Maybe it's because I'm using the x64 version of vmware.

Yes, i'm using PBE2.1. And "sorry try again", I'm also using vmware x64 box ;-) Anyway, it works when I use regina's file to start with, but I can't help but wonder what I'm doing wrong when I do it from scratch.

Maybe regina can chime in and explain how she did it?

[pix]

I also did the whole think from scratch, without experiencing any problems. I put the SLIC from my Dell machine in and changed a few of the manufacturer strings in the other ACPI tables too.

What prog are you using to extract the bios? I used the latest restorator 2007 - it makes life really easy. My host OS is 2008 x64 but i did all the work in an XP x86 VM. PBE2.1 doesn't offically support Vista / 2K8. Maybe that's the problem?

[pcbroch]

I used PE explorer for extract the bios. Then I opened the file in PBE 2.1 (which runs in and x86 XP Pro vm). I'm pretty sure that I have extracted the right thing as I can see the vmware logo, etc in PBE. Opening it in ultraedit and comparing it against regina's bios is the same as well (minus her changes).

I edited the ROM.SCR file to add "ACPI DELL.BIN -X" (tried without the -X too). I put the DELL.bin file in the temp folder and try to build the bios. It complains it can't open "DELL.MOD file so size it". I'll give it another shot tonight, there must be something stupid I'm doing.

[pix]

You seem to have an uncannily similar setup to me! The only apparent difference is that I named the SLIC apci14.rom (I forgot use the -X option). I'd be amazed if that's the key but it's worth a go.

[reginakampher]

The -X switch tells PBE not to compress it during rebuilding of the BIOS. If you don't use the -X switch, you will get an error message in the log after rebuilding. I'm using Server 2008 x32, PBE 2.2, and Resorator 2007 and I did not come across pcbroch's problem.

[pix]

@reginakampher

When I used PBE2.2 it silently produced bad bioses, it seemed to decompress the rom badly. I couldn't even find an RSDT string in the BIOSCOD files. I tried a couple of different versions of PBE2.2 too :confused: Did you use one of the versions posted here?

[ComputerNut]

Hi,

I am new to your forum. I was hoping you might be able to do another VMWare 6.5 bios mod for a Hewlett-Packard Pavilion. Your expertise and assistance would be highly appreciated!

Thanks,

[Slappy]

Just to keep life interesting,:

PALO ALTO, Calif., November 21, 2008 — VMware, Inc., the global leader in software for industry-standard virtualized desktops and servers, today announced the general availability of VMware Workstation v.6.5.1, the sixth generation of its desktop virtualization software product.
VMware VMware Workstation v.6.5.1 delivers groundbreaking advances in virtualization technology while offering numerous new features such as Windows Vista support, as well as industry-first support for multiple display monitors and USB 2.0 devices, making it highly appealing to IT administrators, developers, testers and other technical professionals and enthusiasts.
...

New features in VMware Workstation include:
Enhanced VMware ACE authoring — Use ACE (Assured Computing Environment) features to package and deploy Pocket ACE and desktop virtual machines with encryption, restricted network access, and device control. VMware ACE authoring features are now fully integrated with Workstation, and no special ACE Edition is required.

Let the modification games begin anew. ;)

Regards,

[zort]

Thanks for the heads up about the new version. I just installed it and checked, and the BIOS hasn't changed from v6.5.

Here's the release notes:
http://www.vmware.com/support/ws65/doc/releasenotes_ws651.html

[pcbroch]

The -X switch tells PBE not to compress it during rebuilding of the BIOS. If you don't use the -X switch, you will get an error message in the log after rebuilding. I'm using Server 2008 x32, PBE 2.2, and Resorator 2007 and I did not come across pcbroch's problem.

Well, I tried it again tonight and it wouldn't work... Then I downloaded ASL.exe and all of a sudden it works... Fluke?

[reginakampher]

Hi,

I am new to your forum. I was hoping you might be able to do another VMWare 6.5 bios mod for a Hewlett-Packard Pavilion. Your expertise and assistance would be highly appreciated!

Thanks,
Maybe someone else can give it a shot. I won't be able to do it till next weekend.

[zort]

ComputerNut, did you need it for SLP or SLIC?

This vmware bios will do the following:
http://www.sendspace.com/file/mj7u5t

Asus OEMBIOS.CAT CRC=B20C65BF
Hewlett-Packard OEMBIOS.CAT CRC=06D652A4 (This is "HP PAVILION")
HP & Compaq OEMBIOS.CAT CRC=CD4E1902
IBM Corporation OEMBIOS.CAT CRC=D7A77612
Lenovo OEMBIOS.CAT CRC=5237B729
NEC Computers OEMBIOS.CAT CRC=678752DC
NEC Computers OEMBIOS.CAT CRC=E32D3612
Toshiba OEMBIOS.CAT CRC=A16F9D62

SLIC is Asus though.

[ricktendo64]

ty regie for the updates

[ComputerNut]

Hi Zort,

Thanks, but I need it for both SLP 1.0 and SLIC.

Thanks,

[ComputerNut]

Hi ReginaKampher,

I know you're busy, have a great Holiday. If you could help me out eventually, I can wait as long as it takes.

Thanks Again,

[zort]

Hi ComputerNut,

Here's a new one. It has the same SLP1 names as before, but with HP SLIC.

http://www.sendspace.com/file/fz5hgy

[dolivas]

Hi ComputerNut,

Here's a new one. It has the same SLP1 names as before, but with HP SLIC.

http://www.sendspace.com/file/fz5hgy

Hi zort I noticed it the notes that you said you edited the ROM.SCR but the -X is not there is that a problem? Also what is the -X for?


Copied HP.BIN into folder and renamed to ACPI14.ROM

Edited ROM.SCR and added line:
ACPI ACPI14.ROM -X

[iamhlisky]

VMWare6.5.1-126130 is out ,where can find the method to mod VMWare BIOS with SLP1.0 and SLP2.0.

[Yen]

Hi zort I noticed it the notes that you said you edited the ROM.SCR but the -X is not there is that a problem? Also what is the -X for?


Copied HP.BIN into folder and renamed to ACPI14.ROM

Edited ROM.SCR and added line:
ACPI ACPI14.ROM -X


The parameter -X will insert the SLIC (ACPI4.ROM) uncompressed. No compression, no risk of decompression error.;)

[zort]

dolivas, The -X was was in there when I compiled it, but I think Phoenix BIOS Editor makes changes when you decompile it. I checked Everest in a XP x64 VM with it, and it said the SLIC was 374 bytes, so the compiled ROM should work OK.

iamhlisky, install Phoenix BIOS Editor and then follow the guide in the "Mod your own BIOS" thread in the Phoenix BIOS section. Also I included some mod notes in the link in my last post that may help.

[dolivas]

zort thanks for the update.

Yen thanks for the info.

[iamhlisky]

dolivas, The -X was was in there when I compiled it, but I think Phoenix BIOS Editor makes changes when you decompile it. I checked Everest in a XP x64 VM with it, and it said the SLIC was 374 bytes, so the compiled ROM should work OK.

iamhlisky, install Phoenix BIOS Editor and then follow the guide in the "Mod your own BIOS" thread in the Phoenix BIOS section. Also I included some mod notes in the link in my last post that may help.

thanks, slp2.0 is working but how to make slp1.0 working,I mean where to patch the string "IBM CORPORATION" or "LENOVO" according to reginakamphers post,unfortunatly mediafire link not working from my country.

EDIT:i figure it out,awesome,
ill try,thanks for the help :)

[ComputerNut]

Hi Zort,

Thanks For the bios mod, I will try it as soon as I can. I was away for almost the last week, or I would have replied earlier.

Thanks,

ComputerNut





Hi ComputerNut,

Here's a new one. It has the same SLP1 names as before, but with HP SLIC.

http://www.sendspace.com/file/fz5hgy

[princerock]

Hi, pix, all

I'm really new to bios tech and I'm just trying to make vmware work for my oem xp. I got the same problem as you and I still cannot fix it:( there must be something I did not get from your posts.

I used hwdirect to dump the memeory in VM from fe076, and yes, I see a bunch of zeros (14 bytes, to be specific). Then I copied the string and searched for it in BIOSCOD0.ROM after opening Regina's rom in PBE 2.1. But I cannot find it! I tried with all the other .ROM files in TEMP but still cannot get it.

Can you please point out what I'm doing wrong? Thank you!


You need to deduce the mapping between the memory map on the running VM and the raw bios code.

If you fire up a VM running Regina's bios and then look at FE076 in HWDIRECT you will see all zeros. Just after these zeroes is a distictive sequence of bytes. Copy quite a long chunk of these bytes (say 32), starting at FE076 then open up BIOSCOD0.ROM, after opening Regina's rom in PBE2.1, and search for them in a hex editor like hex workshop. Then you will see the location that you need to copy the string into.

You can find the string info you need on this page:

http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showpost.php?p=9751&postcount=12

with an explanation here:

http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showpost.php?p=9754&postcount=13

After you've edited BIOSCOD0.ROM, save it then change something random in PBE like a DMI string then change it back. This will activate the 'build bios' option on the file menu of PBE. After you build it, you'll get a working rom.

[pix]

princerock,

You say you copied the string - you need to copy the hex values from the left pane. Some of the hex values don't map to characters so you're reducing your chances of finding a match if you try to search for the string. Are you using hex workshop to search the .ROM files? If you are, you have the option to search for the raw bytes or strings. Hope this helps.

[bilou_gateux]

Can anyone mod VMWare bios and change system-manufacturer DMI string to FUJITSU SIEMENS

I would like to use it to preactivate XP Pro (SLP 1.0) on VMware Server 1.0.x

like the one done here for Painless HP OEMBIOS and VMWare Bios Pre-Mod (http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showthread.php?t=1079)


4. VmWare HP modified BIOS * BONUS
-----------------------------------

I've seen a few posts asking about modifying vmware bios image so as a bonus I've included a vmware bios already modified with the proper DMI string change performed. I use VMWare Workstation 6.x but I believe this will work in lower versions.

Unpack the file VMBIOS_HP.ROM into the folder with your vmware config file (*.vmx).
Open [whatever].vmx in notepad and add the following line:

bios440.filename = "VMBIOS_HP.ROM"

Now boot your virtual machine, mount the HP .iso you created with the files in this kit and install Windows XP. After install you can verify its activated by doing the following:

Start > Run > type "oobe/msoobe /a" and hit {enter}

you should get a dialog stating "Windows is already activated"

Now you can install as many XP Virtual machines as you need and not have to worry about activating shiat.


I hope the above is not too much to ask for.

[Apokrif]

Maybe someone else can give it a shot. I won't be able to do it till next weekend.

Reginakampher & Pix
Guys, I have kinda long question, please bear with me :-)

Regina posted VMWare BIOS for DELL (post #4)
Pix confirmed, it doesn’t work with SLP1.0 and was able to fix it (post #23)
Pix wrote also, (post #38) PBE2.2 it silently produced bad BIOSes (on XP VM)
I assume he falls back to PBE2.1?

I got both PBE 2.1.0.0 (01/05/06) & 2.2.01 (04/21/08)

I download Regina BIOS (post #4),
opened it with both PBE versions,
both gave same error – unsupported module class ‘*’ was found on at offset F7642, I assume it’s ok.
changed one letter in a string in STRINGS0.ROM, than change it back and
saved BIOS without any error messages.

There were no any differences between BIOS made by 2.1 & 2.2
But they differ from Regina one…

1. What tool did Regina use to modify VMWare BIOS (post #37 -> I'm using W2K8 & PBE 2.2)?
Why my BIOS is different from her then?
I run on XP SP2, but does it really matter to PBE?

2. Is the only way to make sure SLP 2.0 works (i.e. SLIC certificate [in BIOS] matches xrm-ms one [in file]) is to install Vista/W2K8?

2a. Do all different DELL SLICs match same (the only one) xrm-ms file or they come in pairs?

[zort]

I can't speak for Regina, but I use Phoenix BIOS Editor 2.2.0.1 with XP x64.

I like to start with the original BIOS each time. Here is 650/651 unmodified:
http://www.sendspace.com/file/crmrhe

If you have XP installed you can see if the SLIC is present if you run Everest in the VM. If it's there then Vista should activate if you install the corresponding certificate.

There are 2 Dell SLICs that I know of. I think "M07" is more common, but there is also a "FX09" and there could be others. To activate the .xrm-ms has to match the SLIC is in the BIOS.

You can see that the SLIC is correct if you check the SLIC memory address with Everest and do a memory dump of that location with hwdirect. If you just want to see which one it is an easier way would be to just open the BIOS file in Winhex and search for "SLIC". It will take you right to it.

[Apokrif]

Zort,
Thanks for your answer.
I do have 3 DELL SLICs: "M07", “PE_SC3” & “B9K”
and only one DELL certificate (don’t even remember where I got it)
Any chance you do have a link for "FX09" one?
Is there a tool to extract BIOS from Dell update package?

About original 650/651 VMWare BIOS:
I opened/saved is with both Phoenix BIOS Editor 2.2.0.1 & 2.1.0.0 and got exact same file.
And it’s different from original one… Is that how it supposed to be?

And two questions from my previous post:
1. You mentioned two DELL SLICs – do they both use same certificate (xrm-ms file)
(I have a feeling they should…)

2. How we can tell if SLIC & certificate match each other?
Is the only way to install Vista/W2K8 on BIOS with the SLIC and see it’s activated properly?
(Or somebody else told you they match :-)

[zort]

About original 650/651 VMWare BIOS:
I opened/saved is with both Phoenix BIOS Editor 2.2.0.1 & 2.1.0.0 and got exact same file.
And it’s different from original one… Is that how it supposed to be?

It might use different checksums or filler code. (I noticed cbrom 1.82 and cbrom32 1.15 for Award do that.) You'd have to compare the files with Winhex or similar to see what the differences are. I'd probably just go with the newer version of the program.

Any chance you do have a link for "FX09" one?

slic.rar below has a lot of slics & certs including Dell M07 and FX09.
http://www.mediafire.com/?mjy2pdnedlu

The mega_slick_pack in the BIOS Tools sticky has the Dell B8K slic & cert:
http://rapidshare.com/files/52143481/mega_SLIC_Pack.rar.html


You mentioned two DELL SLICs – do they both use same certificate (xrm-ms file)

You have to install the cert that matches your slic. If you look at the SLIC in RAM or in the BIOS file you can see if says M07, etc. Then you know to install the cert. with that name.


Is there a tool to extract BIOS from Dell update package?

Dell BIOS'es can't be modded, but if it's a model that is sold with Vista as an option then there may be a hidden SLIC that can be unlocked. See this thread for details:
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showthread.php?t=3486

[Apokrif]

Zort,
I appreciate you help. :-)
You have to install the cert that matches your slic. If you look at the SLIC in RAM or in the BIOS file you can see if says M07, etc. Then you know to install the cert. with that name.
I got the answer from different forum.
For DELL, as of now, one certificate covers all SLICs.

Do you happen to have a link on how to extract BIOS from VMWare ESX?
I think I know how to do it for VMWare Server already.

[zort]

For DELL, as of now, one certificate covers all SLICs.
You're right. I just compared B8K, M07, and FX09 certs and they're identical.


Do you happen to have a link on how to extract BIOS from VMWare ESX?
I think I know how to do it for VMWare Server already.

There are some programs such as Restorator and XN Resource Editor that list all the resources in exe's and let you extract them. I haven't looked at ESX, but for Workstation I opened vmware-vmx.exe in Winhex, searched for some code from a previous BIOS to quickly identify where it was, and copied it out into a new file. That's probably the hard way. :)

zort

[deet]

Here it is:

VMware Workstation 6.5.0 build-118166

SLP 1.0 string inserted = "Dell System", "Dell Computer", "Dell Inc", "Dell Quanta"
SLIC inserted = DELL PE_SC3

Modded BIOS only:
http://www.mediafire.com/file/5kzai4jncgu/6006_DELL-PE_SC3.ROM


I am a complete noob at this stuff, so apologies in advance but I can't get this working.

Here is my situation:

I am using VMWare WS 6.5.1 build-126130 on a Dell XP box.

I want to restore (using Acronis True Image) an existing Win XP installation onto a VM on this Dell Box. The restore image is also a Dell Win XP install, but for an older vintage Dell box.

Here is what I have done:

1. I created a new Win XP virtual machine.

2. I copied 6006_DELL-PE_SC3.ROM into the directory containing the new VM's .vmx file.

3. I edited the .vmx file to include the entry:
bios440.filename = "6006_DELL-PE_SC3.ROM"

4. I ran Acronis TI in the new VM from a CD and restored a copy of the older XP system's C: drive.

When I boot the VM after the restore I am immediately told that it needs activating.

(I also tried a clean install of Win XP using the install CD that came with the new box but that too needs activating, although it does give me 30 days grace).

Should I expect this to work?

Am I missing something crucial?

Thx. Deet

Added: This post makes me wonder if there is something wrong with the rom file:
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showpost.php?p=41599&postcount=4

[zort]

The Dell SLP string might not be in the proper memory range for activation. You may have to pick a different oem bios file set to activate with.

[deet]

The Dell SLP string might not be in the proper memory range for activation. You may have to pick a different oem bios file set to activate with.


Ok, thanks.

Hmmm. Is it possible to modify the SLP string in the running system before taking the backup?

If so, where would I find a SLP string to match Regina's bios and where do I put it.

[urie]

Ok, thanks.

Hmmm. Is it possible to modify the SLP string in the running system before taking the backup?

If so, where would I find a SLP string to match Regina's bios and where do I put it.
you may be laughing but that is the way some peeps with the knowledge do it , do you realy need to use VMware, really bloated at the moment i use MS Virtual PC with dell bios mods that works.

as reguards to modding SLP string it is possible with dmiscope or DMI Editor it totally depends on your bios.

[deet]

you may be laughing

No I am not. I just want to be able to keep a working copy of my old system in a VM on my new machine so that I can go back to it for some programs (specifically for my taxes) for which I can no longer get copies. When I migrated from Win2K to WinXP I was able to do this, but MS activation makes this impossible.

I realize that I must either change my backup image to match a working Dell VMWare BIOS or create a VMWare BIOS that matches my backup image.

If I want to try the latter, what do I do:

- Copy the BIOS from my old machine.

- Analyze this BIOS in some way to figure out what makes it special to the Dell XP install.

- Modify a VMWare BIOS to reflect these differences.

Is this correct?

I know that there are tutorials on the site, but the ones that I have looked at are huge and arcane. Is there something simple that I can read that can get me going fairly quickly for this one-off project?

Or, can I send a copy of my old BIOS to some kind soul who will fix up a 6.5.1 VMWare BIOS for me?

TIA.

[urie]

ok you are not kidding, but since we don't have a working dell SLP1 bios mod for latest VMWare there is software about to convert VMware to MS virtual PC and others sorry i cant think of the name at the moment, also if it is a dell machine you have it should have slp1 and slic if it is new machine so why not just make it dual boot, it will activate.

[deet]

ok you are not kidding, but since we don't have a working dell SLP1 bios mod for latest VMWare there is software about to convert VMware to MS virtual PC and others sorry i cant think of the name at the moment, also if it is a dell machine you have it should have slp1 and slic if it is new machine so why not just make it dual boot, it will activate.

Urie:

I have been using VMWare since version 2 and I am still happy with it. But I will try MS Virtual PC, can you point me at a Dell SLP1 BIOS that works in MS Virtual PC?

Alternatively, is there a working dell SLP1 bios mod for an earlier version of VMWare? If so, then I believe that I can use that by asking VMWare to create a version 6 or a version 5 VM - it will have reduced functionality but I can live with that.

Added:

I will answer my own question:
The BIOSs can be found here:
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showpost.php?p=34398&postcount=15

I tried creating an earlier version VM under VMWare 6.5.1 - no good.

I tried MS Virtual PC 2007 SP1 (I was not impressed) and although the Acronis recovery seemed to work OK when I tried to boot the resulting virtual machine I got "a disk read error err r occurred". I suspect that this because it only emulates a Pentium II (really). Typical MS POS.

I tried using Regina's vmware-vmx.exe file but VMWare 6.5.1 refuses to use this file as it is based on 6.5.

So I am stuck and not sure what to try next. I don't really want to dual boot but maybe that is the only way to go.

[bhmayor]

Maybe someone else can give it a shot. I won't be able to do it till next weekend.

A few quick questions for you:

It seems to me that what is happening is that the VMware BIOS is being amended such that it has the strings there within to appear as a factory BIOS to a Windows OEM installation CD, yes?

Where is the VMware BIOS file that you are amending coming from?

It appears the latest version (for VMware Fusion) is 301h, is there one amended for that version?

Is there a posting instructive to the procedure for amending these bios files for the user that feels impelled to try amending a bios themselves?

Is it possible to just use a manufacturers BIOS directly to simulate having their machine vice amending the VMware files?

Does any of this work with VMware Fusion (the bios440.filename entry) and these amended files?

Thanks for your time and assistance.

Bert's evil twin brother
(yeah, yeah - I am a fan of Bert is Evil)!

[Busykid508]

I am not sure where to put this request but I will begin here. I want to create an OEM bios file for Vmware Workstation v6.5.2 Build 156.735. I am following the tutorial of another version of VmWare Workstation that I found somewhere on this forum....I do not remember of where I found it.

I have figured out of how to create an OEM bios file for this version of Workstation but I am stuck at the following 2 steps and need help in interpreting what it is asking.

In this illustration it asks, Then, always in the Temp folder, open bioscod0.rom with Ultraedit and search RSDT.
http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/856/pic2x.jpg

I opened UltraEdit and went to SEARCH - FIND and typed RSDT but it did nothing. Am I missing something here.

In this very next illustration it says, "Count 6 points after the first RSDT. After them, write your OEMTableID: “_ASUS_Notebook”,
here.
http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/8192/pic3e.jpg

In this second illustration above, I have no clue as to what it is asking. Could someone clarify it for me. What does it mean to COUNT 6 POINTs after the FIRST RSDT. How do you do this? And what does it mean to WRITE OEMTABLEID: "_ASUS_Notebook". Where do I write it and how do I write it.

I hope this is clear enough for someone who is more brilliant than me to know what these 2 illustrations are saying.

If anyone needs to see the entire Tutorial, you can download it from the following link: http://www.box.net/shared/tvqoqyvv62.

[911medic]

I am not sure where to put this request but I will begin here. I want to create an OEM bios file for Vmware Workstation v6.5.2 Build 156.735. I am following the tutorial of another version of VmWare Workstation that I found somewhere on this forum....I do not remember of where I found it.

I have figured out of how to create an OEM bios file for this version of Workstation but I am stuck at the following 2 steps and need help in interpreting what it is asking.

In this illustration it asks, Then, always in the Temp folder, open bioscod0.rom with Ultraedit and search RSDT.
http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/856/pic2x.jpg

I opened UltraEdit and went to SEARCH - FIND and typed RSDT but it did nothing. Am I missing something here.

In this very next illustration it says, "Count 6 points after the first RSDT. After them, write your OEMTableID: “_ASUS_Notebook”,
here.
http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/8192/pic3e.jpg

In this second illustration above, I have no clue as to what it is asking. Could someone clarify it for me. What does it mean to COUNT 6 POINTs after the FIRST RSDT. How do you do this? And what does it mean to WRITE OEMTABLEID: "_ASUS_Notebook". Where do I write it and how do I write it.

I hope this is clear enough for someone who is more brilliant than me to know what these 2 illustrations are saying.

If anyone needs to see the entire Tutorial, you can download it from the following link: http://www.box.net/shared/tvqoqyvv62.

Show the whole screen and I will point you in the right direction..I cannot make heads or tails of your screen shots..:D

[Busykid508]

Show the whole screen and I will point you in the right direction..I cannot make heads or tails of your screen shots..:D

911Medic:

This is from a pdf file which can be downloaded here: http://www.box.net/shared/tvqoqyvv62. This file is less than 800 KB in size and it will give you all the steps of what I have done up to the place of where I am confused....please download this pdf file and it will give you the whole picture and it is not that long.

[911medic]

911Medic:

This is from a pdf file which can be downloaded here: http://www.box.net/shared/tvqoqyvv62. This file is less than 800 KB in size and it will give you all the steps of what I have done up to the place of where I am confused....please download this pdf file and it will give you the whole picture and it is not that long.

That is not a very good tutorial..This may clear things up a little bit. I use Winhex..

It also helps to search for the XSDT string in newer Phoenix bios.

All the text goes i the right column..

[Busykid508]

That is not a very good tutorial..This may clear things up a little bit. I use Winhex..

It also helps to search for the XSDT string in newer Phoenix bios.

All the text goes i the right column..

911Medic:

Ok, treat me like I am a kindegarten person....lol...because I have no idea as to what you are telling me....so, treat me with kid gloves...

What does it mean to find RSDT.....I downloaded WinHex 15.3 SR1 and opened BIOSCOD0.ROM in WinHex.

Then I went to SEARCH - FIND TEXT and typed RSDT in the search engine and it found RSDT in the Right Hand Side.

Now what do you mean when you wrote in your illustration of WinHex: "Find the RSDT string. "and count 7 spaces from the end." - What does that mean...it makes no sense to someone who has never used this program before now----Count 7 spaces from WHAT or WHERE?

Then you go on and say, "The seventh space is where the OEMID starts." - What does this mean and how do I find the seventh space?

Then you write: "At 0000CBC3h is where the _Asus_Notebook string starts". Again, what does this mean and how to I find it in WinHex.

Then you write: "Just type over the RSDT...*Text that is in the right column." - Where is this and how do I type over it and what do I type over it.

Sorry, but this is how my simple brain works and I really want to learn but I need to know the language before I delve into quantum physics....lol.

[911medic]

911Medic:

Ok, treat me like I am a kindegarten person....lol...because I have no idea as to what you are telling me....so, treat me with kid gloves...

What does it mean to find RSDT.....I downloaded WinHex 15.3 SR1 and opened BIOSCOD0.ROM in WinHex.

Then I went to SEARCH - FIND TEXT and typed RSDT in the search engine and it found RSDT in the Right Hand Side.

Now what do you mean when you wrote in your illustration of WinHex: "Find the RSDT string. "and count 7 spaces from the end." - What does that mean...it makes no sense to someone who has never used this program before now----Count 7 spaces from WHAT or WHERE?

Then you go on and say, "The seventh space is where the OEMID starts." - What does this mean and how do I find the seventh space?

Then you write: "At 0000CBC3h is where the _Asus_Notebook string starts". Again, what does this mean and how to I find it in WinHex.

Then you write: "Just type over the RSDT...*Text that is in the right column." - Where is this and how do I type over it and what do I type over it.

Sorry, but this is how my simple brain works and I really want to learn but I need to know the language before I delve into quantum physics....lol.

I think you should use premodded and unmodded and compare. There are tons of tutorials and info on modding the phoenix bios. You should try to understand the basic bios structure and tables you are modifying. Just to point to a string in a hex editor will more confuse you than anything..

Read this: http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showpost.php?p=5520&postcount=4

You should know that all hex addressess end in "h" for hex. 000ff200 is 000ff200h. Familiarize yourself with the hex format. 0-9 then A-F and how the relationship works. You will need to know how to read the hex editor, then how to add and subtract the values, and what they do. I would love to take the time to be sure you know these, but I am also very busy in my job and as an educator..

Know the relationship between the strings you are inputing and the SLIC code it will be calling..There is a lot to understand, or you will be very confused. You cannot just jump in with no knowledge previous. Please read and research to get a better understanding.

I am sorry if I am being crass, but you should understand what you are asking and modding for better enjoyment..:D:D

EDIT: I will try to upload an unmodified portion and then a modified portion to compare..It may be a bit though...I want to help, but there is a boat load of self help here to investigate as well....

[ifeife2]

Then you write: "Just type over the RSDT...*Text that is in the right column." - Where is this and how do I type over it and what do I type over it.



http://www.diybios.net/bbs/upload/44958-1-2.jpg

http://www.diybios.net/bbs/upload/44958-1-3.jpg

ASUS = “_ASUS_Notebook”
HEX: 5F 41 53 55 53 5F 4E 6F 74 65 62 6F 6F 6B

(i got these pictures from a chinese guide at http://www.diybios.net/bbs/show.asp?id=10703&bd=11&totable=1 )

you can just type it yourself with the correct capitalization and spacing or the HEX IS JUST GIVEN TO YOU at the end of the guide at http://www.box.net/shared/tvqoqyvv62

[Busykid508]

Links updated with Lenovo TP-79 mod.
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/showthread.php?p=37143

If you want I can post the modified bios of VMWare Workstation Workstation 6.5 build 118166

This is what I have

ACER SLIC 2.1
ALIENWARE SLIC 2.1
ASUS SLIC 2.1
BENQ SLIC 2.1 - NO MATCHING CERTIFICATE FOUND
COMPAQ-HP SLIC 2.1
DELL SLIC 2.1
FIJITSU-SIEMENS SLIC 2.1
FOUND SLIC 2.1
GIGABYTE SLIC 2.1 - NO MATCHING CERTIFICATE FOUND
HP SLIC 2.1
LENOVO-IBM SLIC 2.1
LG SLIC 2.1 - NO MATCHING CERTIFICATE FOUND
MSI SLIC 2.1
SAMSUNG SLIC 2.1
TOSHIBA SLIC 2.1


Let me know and I will post them.

[Tenchi]

@BusyKid508

can you please help me out,

i'm following the same guide as you, and following the guide to the letter using SLP2.0.bin file, i can get vista to activate correctly.

however using the same guide the exact same steps, using a SLP2.1.bin file it will not activate Vista or Win7.....

but i know that this SLP2.1.BIN works correctly when it is used on a phy. machine for both VISTA & Win7.

can you please teach me just what extra steps are needed to get SLP2.1.bin working for VMWARE?


thanks,