MoboCop · 01-01-2000 · Category: Tech-planations

BIOS Basics

The BIOS (Basic Input Output System) is the program that enables a PC to boot after power-up. The BIOS is a built-in set of routines that serve as an interface between the computer's operating system and hardware devices. It is stored on an ROM chip generally located near the computer's real-time clock or lithium battery. By processing requests from applications as well as drivers, the BIOS permits the user to maintain control of hardware settings.

BIOS manufacturers

• American Megatrends, Inc. (AMI)
• Award Software
• Microid Research
• Phoenix Technologies

Identifying your motherboard by BIOS number

It can often be difficult to determine the manufacturer of your motherboard due to poor or incomplete documentation. If you are contemplating a BIOS upgrade, it is imperative that you know the manufacturer of your motherboard in order to obtain the correct upgrade. Fortunately, if your system uses Award or AMI BIOS, there is a unique number that identifies the manufacturer. After turning on the computer, the BIOS version number should be displayed at the bottom of the screen during memory count. You can also use our Mobo ID Tools to look up BIOS strings, or you can use the links below to look up your board:

• Wim's Award BIOS Lookup Page
• Wim's AMI BIOS Lookup Page

ROM BIOS upgrade vendors

• Micro Firmware, Inc.
• Midco Computers.
• Unicore Software

Other BIOS resources

The links below lead to excellent references for anyone who needs a complete overview of BIOS features and functions, as well as useful insight into system BIOS setup, upgrades, and optimization.

• PC Mechanic BIOS Guide
• PC Guide System BIOS
• BIOS Optimization Guide
• The BIOS Companion