Basic Input Output System
The
BIOS is a special software usually stored on a Flash memory chip on the
motherboard. It is used by the microprocessor (processor) to get the computer
system started after it is turned on. It also manages data flow between the
computer's operating system and attached devices such as the hard disk, video
adapter, keyboard, mouse, printer etc. When BIOS boots up (starts up) the
computer, it first determines whether all of the attachments are in place and
operational and then it loads the operating system (or key parts of it) into
the computer's random access memory (RAM) from hard disk or diskette drive.
The
BIOS uses CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) technology to save any
changes made to the computer's settings. A small lithium or Ni-Cad cell,
installed on the motherboard, supplies power to keep the data for years. To
enter the CMOS Setup for altering custom settings of a computer, a certain key
during the initial startup sequence is required to be pressed. Most systems use
"Del," or "F1," keys to enter CMOS setup.
On
entering CMOS setup, a text menu screen, the contents of which are different
for different BIOS manufacturers, is displayed. The menu screen provides links
for opening pages for changing various BIOS settings of the computer. These
menus enable change of the following
- System Time/Date
- Drive Configuration
- Boot Sequence - setting the order
of boot devices;
- Plug and Play;
- Integrated peripherals;
- Advanced chipset features;
- Setting password for computer
access;
- Power Management etc.
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