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PC Hardware Terminology Reference: B

 
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BIOS
Also known as:
Basic Input/Output System
A computer's BIOS is stored on ROM (read-only memory) on the motherboard. The BIOS provides simple, stripped-down hardware control so that your computer can function before any software is loaded. The BIOS enables your computer to boot. Once software is loaded, it will communicate with the BIOS frequently as an interface to hardware. You can access your computer's BIOS by pressing the BIOS setup key when your computer boots. This key is usually one of F1, F2, F10, F12, DEL, or ESC depending on the manufacturer. This will lead you to a simple menu which gives you information about your hardware and some settings to change. Warning: changing some settings may have adverse effects, such as making your computer incapable of booting up.
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