2-10 System ConfigurationBIOS Setup UtilityThe BIOS Setup utility configures system parameters. The parameters are savedin nonvolatile memory in a CMOS chip backed by a battery on the systemboard. The battery supplies continuous power to maintain parameterconfiguration information when system power is off.Note: Before changing parameters or replacing thebattery, print out or write down the current setup parametersettings and store in a safe place. Use this information torestore the system to the current parameters if a wrongsetting is made or if the battery needs replacement (seeSection 3 for battery replacement).When to Use BIOS SetupThe BIOS Setup utility is used to view and set parameters. Use the Setup utilityto: set the time and date update or check parameters when adding or removing expansion options change or set power management features correct a hardware discrepancy when the Power-On Self-Test (POST)displays an error message and prompts to run Setup check the installation of optional memory by comparing the amount ofmemory installed with the amount of memory displayed by Setup change certain operating parameters, such as boot device sequence andkeyboard parameters configure system connections for peripherals such as diskette drive, harddrives, and devices connected to the printer port and serial ports customize the system with security features such as passwords, diskettedrive restriction, virus check reminder, and system backup reminder set system parameters after the CMOS battery is replaced.How to Start BIOS SetupTo start the BIOS Setup utility, follow these steps:1. Turn on or reboot the system.2. To start the memory test before the system boots up, press F2 after POST.There is about five seconds to press F2 before the system boot continues.
