Common Hardware Reference Platform
| Company type | Standard |
|---|---|
| Industry | Computer hardware |
| Founded | 1995 |
| Founder | IBM, Apple |
| Products | PowerPC-based computer system architecture |
Common Hardware Reference Platform (CHRP) represents a standardized system architecture designed for PowerPC-based computer systems, introduced by IBM and Apple in 1995. Building upon the foundation of its predecessor, the PReP, CHRP sought to facilitate compatibility with various operating systems on a unified hardware base, mandating the implementation of Open Firmware alongside RTAS for hardware abstraction.
History
In contrast to PReP, CHRP integrated aspects of the Power Macintosh design and expanded its target operating system support to include classic Mac OS and NetWare, in addition to those already adapted for PReP such as Windows NT, OS/2, Solaris, and AIX.
Despite these enhancements, CHRP experienced minimal adoption across the industry. Its deployment was largely confined to select IBM RS/6000 models running the AIX and a limited number of Motorola PowerStack workstations equipped with CHRP-compliant hardware. Support for CHRP was incorporated into Mac OS 8, while the New World Power Macintosh machines combined features from both CHRP and PReP architectures.
The introduction of the Power Architecture Platform Reference (PAPR) by Power.org in late 2006 marked a new phase in PowerPC system development, establishing a reference framework for creating Linux systems based on the Power ISA, reflecting continued progression in PowerPC platform standards.
See also
References
- CHRP Specification Version 1.0 and related documents
- The PowerPC (TM) Hardware Reference Platform, an overview of CHRP
- PREP / CHRP / ofppc / macppc confusion on NetBSD port-powerpc mailing list.
External links
- penguinppc.org overview of CHRP
- FirmWorks CHRP information
- Motorola StarMax 6000 at Low End Mac, a CHRP machine that was never released.