I have a Z68 motherboard that is capable to run an Ivy Bridge CPU which features VT-d. Currently, I do not have such a CPU, but I plan to upgrade it so I am able to pass PCI devices (Ethernet and graphics card) to a QEMU machine for testing.
However, I see much contradictory information on the support of VT-d for this Z68 motherboard.
- This Intel article on Compatibility with Intel® Virtualization Technology (Intel® VT) state that the BIOS has to support VT-d. The Z68 board is not listed on the supported motherboards list for VT-d.
- http://www.tinkertry.com/vmdirectpath/ show some Z68 boards which are supposed to support VT-d and some which do not.
- But the most confusing thing is... Intel mentions that the Z68 Chipset does not have VT-d at all!
Assume that a CPU supports VT-d. Is motherboard support for VT-d determined by software (BIOS) or hardware (some additional chips or hardware logic)?