AML File – What is .aml file and how to open it?
AML File Extension
ACPI Machine Language File – file format by The ACPICA Project
AML (ACPI Machine Language File) is a file extension developed by The ACPICA Project. It defines the configuration and behavior of ACPI-compliant hardware devices. AML files contain a set of instructions that are executed by the ACPI BIOS to initialize and manage hardware devices.
Definition and Overview
An AML file is a text file that contains the instructions for configuring and controlling an Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) compliant system. ACPI is a specification that sets standards for hardware and software interaction, enabling a system to manage its power consumption and other hardware-related functions. AML files provide a platform-independent way of specifying these instructions, allowing them to be used on different ACPI-compliant platforms without the need for platform-specific modifications.
Structure and Syntax
AML files are structured in a hierarchical manner, with each statement representing a specific instruction or configuration. The statements are written in a language called AML (ACPI Machine Language), which is a low-level, hardware-oriented language designed specifically for ACPI implementations. The AML syntax consists of a set of instructions, keywords, and operators that allow for the definition of objects, methods, and other constructs that specify the desired system behavior. These objects represent hardware devices, power states, and other system resources, while methods define the logic for managing and interacting with these objects.
Using a Text Editor
AML files are plain text files that can be opened with any text editor, such as Notepad, TextEdit, or Sublime Text. To open an AML file using a text editor, simply drag and drop the file onto the editor’s window, or use the File > Open menu option to navigate to the file. Once the file is open, you can view and edit the AML code directly.
Using an AML Viewer
If you need to view or edit AML files regularly, you can also use a dedicated AML viewer. These viewers provide specialized features for working with AML files, such as syntax highlighting, code navigation, and debugging tools. Some popular AML viewers include UEFITool, ACPICA Reference Code, and AML Studio. To use an AML viewer, install it on your computer and then open the AML file using the viewer’s File > Open menu option.
AML File Format
AML (ACPI Machine Language) files contain the machine-readable representation of the ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface) specification, which defines the hardware abstraction layer for modern computer systems. AML files describe the system’s hardware resources, power management capabilities, and other system-related information. They are essential for the operation and management of ACPI-compliant systems.
AML files are typically generated by ACPI table generators and compiled into binary ACPI tables (.DAT files) by ACPI compilers. The binary ACPI tables are then embedded in the system BIOS or UEFI firmware. The ACPI interpreter in the operating system reads and interprets the ACPI tables at runtime to manage hardware resources, handle power events, and provide various other system services.