Describe the BIOS Setup

Last Updated on Mon, 12 Feb 2024 | Operating Systems

The BIOS contains a setup program used to configure settings for hardware devices. The configuration data is saved to a special memory chip called a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS). CMOS is maintained by the battery in the computer. If this battery dies, all BIOS setup configuration data is lost. If this occurs, replace the battery and reconfigure the BIOS settings.

To enter the BIOS setup program, you must press the proper key or key sequence during POST. Most computers use the Delete key. Your computer may use another key or combination of keys, as specified during the boot process.

Figure 3-11 shows an example of a BIOS setup program. Figure 3-11 BIOS Setup Screen Shot

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Here are some common BIOS setup menu options:

■ Main: System time, date, HDD type, and so on

■ Advanced: Infrared port settings, parallel port settings, and so on

■ Security: Password settings for the setup utility

■ Others: Low-battery alarm, system beep, and so on

■ Boot: The computer's boot order

■ Exit: Exits the setup utility

Lab 3.9.2: Boot the Computer

In this lab you boot the computer and verify BIOS settings. Refer to the lab in IT

Essentials: PC Hardware and Software Labs and Study Guide, Third Edition. You may perform this lab now or wait until the end of the chapter.

Continue reading here: Control Hardware Access

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Readers' Questions

  • cruz
    What is the name for the routine that tests the motherboard memory?
    6 months ago
    • The routine that tests the motherboard memory is known as "memory test."
    • sheri
      Which program is responsible for reading motherboard settings and running the post?
      10 months ago
      • This program is called the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). It is stored on a chip on the motherboard and is responsible for loading and running the POST (Power On Self Test), which checks the system for proper configuration and functioning of the hardware.
      • danyl
        What program controls testing hardware during the boot process?
        11 months ago
        • The basic input/output system (BIOS) is the program code contained in ROM that enables a computer to boot up and start the operating system. It is responsible for controlling the system’s hardware components, such as memory, disks, and the keyboard, and for providing a testing protocol for the computer’s hardware components.
        • aston burns
          What are the types of post available in bios settings?
          1 year ago
          1. Auto-boot Post: This type of POST checks basic system components such as the RAM, CPU, and motherboard. It also checks the power supply and the BIOS version.
          2. Fast-boot Post: This type of POST checks more detailed information than Auto-boot Post, such as the boot device order, system settings, and system memory.
          3. Full-boot Post: This type of POST takes the longest amount of time but checks the most amount of system components. It includes checks on the hard drive, optical drives, and possibly the video card.
          4. Continuous-boot Post: This type of POST will continuously re-run the POST until it passes all the tests. This is mainly used for system diagnostic testing.
          • COTTAR
            How to set setting using cmos setup?
            1 year ago
            1. Power on your computer and look for the "BIOS Setup" message at the bottom of the screen.
            2. Press the key that corresponds to your BIOS setup program as soon as the message appears. This is usually either the DEL key, the F2 key, or the Esc key.
            3. Navigate through the BIOS menus, using the arrow keys and other directional keys. Navigate to the setting that you want to change.
            4. Use the up and down arrow keys to change the setting.
            5. Press the F10 key to save the changes.
            6. Press the Enter key to confirm the changes.
            7. Press the Esc key to exit the BIOS setup program.
            • leda
              Which keys are used to enter cmos setup?
              1 year ago
              • The keys used to enter CMOS setup vary depending on the type of computer. Common keys used to enter CMOS setup include the Delete, F2, or Escape keys.
              • Uffo
                What types of options are shown on the bios setup main screen?
                1 year ago
                • The options shown on the BIOS setup main screen typically include:
                1. System Time & Date
                2. Boot Device Priority
                3. Boot Options
                4. Advanced BIOS Features
                5. Security Settings
                6. Hardware Monitor
                7. Power Management
                8. Integrated Peripherals
                9. Exit Options
                • matilda
                  What key or combination of keys is used to run setup on your computer?
                  1 year ago
                  • The key combination used to start the setup process on most computers is the F2 key.
                  • daisy
                    Where is the saved bios configuration data stored?
                    1 year ago
                    • The BIOS configuration data is usually stored in the CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) memory chip on the system motherboard. The CMOS memory is powered by a small battery on the motherboard that allows the BIOS configuration settings to be retained.