Every computer motherboard includes a BIOS chip or ROM BIOS (Read Only Memory Basic Input/Output System). The BIOS includes instructions on how to load basic computer hardware. The BIOS also includes a test called a POST (Power On Self Test) which checks if the computer is capable to boot up. If the computer does not pass the POST, you will receive beeps (short and long)
BIOS has 4 main functions POST - Test computer hardware. Additional information on the POST can be found on our POST / Beep Codes page. Bootstrap Loader - This is the process of locating the operating system. If Operating system located the BIOS passes over the control to it. BIOS - Software / Drivers which interfaces between the operating system and the hardware. BIOS / CMOS Setup - Configuration program which allows to configure hardware settings including system settings such as computer passwords, time, and date. You can press either F1/F2/F7/F9/F11/Del/Esc depending on the motherboard after restarting computer to enter BIOS setting, normally the info is displayed on the computer screen.
