Intel line of server motherboards have iKVM built-in but it must be enabled with a separate licensing module that plugs into the motherboard. I got one recently and was curious as to how this “license” works.
For the AXXRMM4LITE module, it is a single SPI flash (Winbond 25X10CLNIG) with an 8-pin connector. To my surprise, the flash is completely empty. The BMC/BIOS only checks for the presence of an SPI fash.


Very interesting. Any details on the other tiny smd? Looks like maybe two diodes and two capacitors?
One set is a pull up resistor and filter capacitor for VCC. The other one I’m not sure but it should be another pull up for another pin. You can reference the datasheet and a reference connection diagram to see what it could be.
“To my surprise, the flash is completely empty. The BMC/BIOS only checks for the presence of an SPI fash. ”
Are you seriously? That is, you can just buy an empty flash drive and make a “key” yourself?
Now I’m just trying to buy one for myself, but the prices are too high. I’m looking for firmware, and here is such valuable information.