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Madhav Ganesan
Madhav Ganesan

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What is BIOS?

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is fundamental firmware stored on a computer's motherboard, acting as the bridge between the hardware and operating system (OS). When a computer starts, the BIOS performs a Power-On Self-Test (POST) to check hardware integrity and then loads the OS into memory. The BIOS also provides access to system settings, like boot order and hardware configurations, essential for system operation.

It is stored on Non-volatile memory chip (**EEPROM **or flash memory) on the motherboard, preserving settings even when powered off.

Accessing BIOS Details:

Press Windows Key, type "System Information."

Opening BIOS Setup:

Press F2 (or keys like Del, Esc, or F10) during boot-up continuously

History of BIOS

It was coined by Gary Kildall in 1975, with the first PC integration by IBM in 1981. Initially owned by IBM, though later reverse-engineered by companies like Phoenix Technologies.

BIOS Modes

BIOS:

Original mode, more limited but widely used in older systems.

UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface):

A modern upgrade to BIOS, supporting faster boot times, secure boot, and larger storage capacities.

Dual BIOS Chips

Some motherboards have two BIOS chips for reliability. If the primary BIOS (M_BIOS) fails, the backup (B_BIOS) takes over, ensuring continued operation and preventing potential BIOS failures.

BIOS's Role in Startup

When turned on, the BIOS:

  • Runs POST to ensure hardware is functional.
  • Locates and loads the OS from storage into RAM.
  • Manages communication between the OS and peripherals (e.g., keyboard, mouse, printer, etc.).

Chipset

It is a group of integrated circuits on a computer's motherboard that manages communication between the processor, memory, storage, and other peripherals. It essentially acts as the central hub or traffic controller for data flow within a computer, ensuring that all the components work together smoothly.

It requires to help the operating system communicate effectively with the chipset's hardware functions. These drivers optimize the chipset's control over various motherboard components .

Components of a Chipset

Chipsets are generally divided into two parts:

1) Northbridge:

  • Traditionally handled high-speed communication directly between the CPU and high-speed components, such as the RAM and GPU.
  • Managed critical functions like memory control, graphics communication, and other high-speed operations.
  • Modern processors often integrate these functions directly into the CPU, reducing the need for a dedicated Northbridge chip.

2) Southbridge:

  • Manages communication with slower components, like PCI slots, USB ports, audio, and storage interfaces (SATA, M.2, etc.).
  • This part of the chipset still exists as a separate entity in most modern motherboards, although it’s commonly referred to simply as the “chipset.”

Importance of a Chipset

The capabilities and limitations of a motherboard’s chipset influence several aspects of a computer’s performance and expandability:

Expansion Slots: Determines how many USB ports, PCIe lanes, and storage devices you can use.

Overclocking Support: Certain chipsets support overclocking, allowing the CPU and memory to run at higher speeds.

Compatibility: Dictates which processors, memory types, and speeds the motherboard can support.

Function

It controls the data flow between the CPU and RAM, interfaces with storage devices like HDDs and SSDs, and manages connectivity for peripherals such as USB ports and PCIe slots. Additionally, the chipset often includes built-in support for networking (LAN, Wi-Fi) and audio, while also regulating power distribution and enabling overclocking capabilities for enhanced performance.

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