PC Fundamentals > System Internals

Machine.inf Update Submission Procedure

Updated: June 6, 2006

Download

Machine_inf.doc

111 KB
Microsoft Word file
Updated: Nov 28, 2005

Get Office File Viewers

Machine.inf is the INF file used by the Windows operating system during the Windows startup process to map core chipset hardware and BIOS-enumerated or firmware-enumerated device identifiers (IDs). Windows uses this information for tasks such as:

•	Creating services and visual display strings.
•	Copying drivers in conjunction with Layout.inf.
•	Creating and deleting registry entries.
•	Applying filter drivers.

As new chipsets evolve or when system manufacturers change device description strings for their current chipsets, Machine.inf is the file they must modify.

This document describes the procedure that device and chipset manufacturers must follow to submit Machine.inf changes for inclusion in a future release of the Windows operating system.

This information applies for the following operating systems:
Windows Vista
Windows Server 2008

Included in this white paper:

•	INF update period
•	INF update submission procedure
•	Vendor-supplied test matrix
•	Example of a vendor-supplied submission document

Top of page