As I mentioned earlier, the computer without software (or firmware) is essentially useless.

For most of our day to day use, the

main operating system (Windows, Linux...) determines the capabilities of a computer. Before the computer can access the main
OS, it's going to need a little help. The basic instructions that a computer uses to get up and running are contained in the BIOS
(basic input/output system). The information in the BIOS allows the computer to interface with the monitor, keyboard and
mouse (among other things) until the OS can take over. The BIOS is stored on a small IC that has a small amount of flash
memory. That memory is used to store the values entered when you set up the computer's BIOS parameters. This page shows
some of the various setting and will tell, briefly what the setting affect in the computer's operation.
Notes:

Before I go any further, I should tell you that you should not go into the BIOS unless you either know what you're doing
or you're working on a computer that is unimportant to you or anyone who may need it. While it's relatively difficult to
destroy data by changing values in the BIOS, it IS easy to make changes that would prevent the computer from booting.

Generally, there is no mouse capability in the BIOS. Most all interaction uses the up/down arrows, the page up/down
buttons and the ENTER key. Some of the newer motherboards have mouse capability but can be navigated with the arrow
keys as well. If you're going to buy a motherboard and want to be able to use a mouse when working with the BIOS
presets, look for one with a UEFI BIOS interface.

To get to the BIOS screen, you have to follow the instructions when the computer just starts to boot. For many
motherboards, you hit the delete key to enter the BIOS. Other BIOS' use F1, F2 and F10 just to mention a few.

BIOS is responsible for starting the PC

Functions of the BIOS

When you first turn on your PC

Your PC requires information

to detect PC components

To find the operating system(floppy disk, hard drive, or a CD-ROM)

This information is stored in the BIOS

On virtually every computer available, the basic input/output system, or BIOS, of your computer makes sure all the other
components function together smoothly. Without BIOS, you wouldn't be able to load your operating system. How much do you know
about this unsung hero of the computer world?

Introduction:
SAY: BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System. It is pronounced (by-ose)
ASK: Has anyone ever seen all the text that pops up on the screen when you first turn on the computer? Thats the BIOS at
work.
SAY: The BIOS checks the computer at boot-up to verify that everything in the computer is working properly.

CMOS battery - Computer Definition. A battery that maintains the time, date, hard disk and other configuration settings in
the CMOS memory.CMOS batteries are small and are attached directly to the motherboard. CMOS is short for Complementary Metal-Oxide
Semiconductor.
What is BIOS' most important role?
Ans: loading the operating system

The BIOS provides instructions to the microprocessor for how to access the operating system.
BIOS is a type of: hardware? Software? Operating system?
Ans: software

Along with your operating system and applications, the BIOS is the third type of software your computer needs to work successfully.
Where is the BIOS usually stored?
Ans: on a flash memory chip

The BIOS is normally stored on a Flash memory chip on the computer's motherboard. Flash memory is a type of electronically
erasable programmable read only memory. It is a computer memory chip which keeps data stored without needing a power
source.