BIOS/CMOS Flashcards
stores settings that are accessed during system startup
CMOS
performs a POST during system startup
BIOS
returns to default settings if a jumper is removed or repositioned
CMOS
selects the drive from which to boot an OS
BIOS
allows computers to interact with certain hardware
BIOS
what are some of the characteristics of a typical CMOS setup utility?
enables you to view RAM settings, such as size and frequency, and how devices manage power, memory configuration, password security
what options can you configure in a typical CMOS setup utility?
fan speed settings, the order in which drives are accessed, CPU clock speed, CPU multiplier options, virtualization options, password options for changing the CMOS settings
what factors should you consider before flashing the BIOS?
the BIOS update should be obtained from the motherboard manufacturer, the power supply should be stable so that power isn’t disrupted during the flashing process, correct BIOS update version
the CMOS setup utility configures:
conserving memory and energy, password security options, fan speeds, CPU clock speed, system date and time, which drives to boot from, virtual machine options
memory module that has 72, 100, 144, 200, or 204 pins, commonly used in laptops
SODIMM
memory module that has 168, 184, or 240 points
DIMM
memory module that generates more heat than other modules, more expensive
RIMM
memory module that must fill an entire set of banks in order to be recognized, has either 30 or 72 pins
SIMM
how does the BIOS provide built-in diagnostic features?
it reports problems by emitting a series of beeps or text messages and instructs components to perform a self-test,
stores settings that are accessed during system startup
CMOS
ensures that hard disks are available to load the operating system
BIOS
can be updated to include newer specifications
BIOS
returns to default settings if a jumper is removed or repositioned
CMOS
includes a setup program that lets you specify hard disk size
CMOS
what describes bus architecture?
the data bus is used to transfer actual data between components, a motherboard’s FSB has to be compatible with the CPU and RAM’s FSB
what is an older bus that can operate at speeds of up to 8 MB/s?
ISA
what is a bus that supports plug and play cards and that operates at speeds of up to 132 MB/s?
PCI
what is a bus that operates at speeds of up to 16 GB/s?
PCIe
what is a bus that’s popular for graphics cards?
AGP
what can be accessed at system startup, enables configuration of memory management settings, and provides password security and boot configuration options?
CMOS setup utility
which statements describe characteristics of motherboard connectors?
case fans use a molex connector or three-pronged power connector, and you need to plug in the correct side of a LED
an expansion slot commonly used in servers
PCI-X
an expansion slot designed specifically for video cards
AGP
an expansion slot designed for use in laptops
mini PCI
an expansion slot with a notch indicating whether it uses a 3.3 V or 5 V, first one that ran in sync with the system clock
PCI
what fixes this? the fans are always on and are noisy
the BIOS controls what happens when different components reach certain temperatures
what fixes this? a user steals a RAM module from the computer while it’s off
the BIOS checks whether the case was opened since the last time it was on
what fixes this? a low-power CPU is installed
the BIOS checks what voltage the CPU requires and configured the motherboard appropriately
what fixes this? a standard CPU is overclocked to improve performance
the BIOS changes the multiplier applied to the CPU
maintains data using a small battery found on the motherboard
CMOS
maintains data using a ROM module
BIOS
contains data that cannot be edited
BIOS
has settings that can be changed to accommodate new hardware
CMOS
performs the POST
BIOS
