At Eltan we provide services to manufacturers and suppliers of advanced technology. Since we are also a main supplier of BIOS technology we have a few answers on Frequently Asked Questions about BIOS.

Because BIOS software is always adapted to the specific needs and requirements of the hardware and manufacturers, we are unable to provide specific answers to end-user board problems or system problems.  Below are several general answers to the most frequently asked questions that Eltan receives regarding BIOS products.  Should you require further assistance, please contact your computer/motherboard manufacturer or system supplier.

What is the BIOS?

BIOS stands for Basic Input and Output System. It is sometimes called the ROM BIOS because it was originally stored in a Read-Only Memory (ROM) chip on the motherboard. The BIOS is the first program to run when you turn on your computer. It performs the following functions:

1. Initializing and testing the hardware in your computer (a process called POST, for Power On Self Test)
2. Loading and running your operating system
3.  Managing Setup for making changes in your computer
4. Helping operating systems and application programs manage your PC hardware by means of a set of routines called BIOS Run-Time Services.  
5. And many more specific hardware, Operating system and manufacturers specific functions. The generic Bios core is adapted and manufacturer/ hardware specific customised. The version most found on PC’s is PhoenixBIOS 4.0x.x and Award 6.xx. There are thousands of customized different versions of Phoenix Bios 4.0x.x and Award 6.xx.

Can I take a BIOS from one computer to another?

Generally, the answer is no. Although systems (and even motherboards) may look alike, the BIOS may have been modified to support changes made to the hardware over the period of manufacture. 

Do I need a BIOS upgrade?

In most cases the only reason to get a BIOS upgrade is to add support for a new form of hardware you are adding to your system (such as a new CPU, or larger hard disk) that is not supported by your current BIOS.  Most operating systems do not use the BIOS once the operating system is up and running, so you should not upgrade the BIOS in an attempt to fix a software bug unless the system/motherboard manufacturer has identified the BIOS as the cause of the problem.

Consult the computer or motherboard manufacturer or the system supplier before upgrading the BIOS, since they will best know your particular system's capabilities. They may also be able to supply a BIOS upgrade if it is needed.

How do I find the information from the computer or motherboard manufacturer or the system supplier?

There are several ways:

• Brand name and type of your computer.
• Brand name and type of your motherboard.
• Information at the start-up screen. In general you can access this screen by pressing F2 during the start-up of your PC or another key combination as shown on your screen or in your manual.

The next step is with search engines like Google to find the original Motherboard supplier. At the web site of the Motherboard supplier you can find general problems and solutions for similar motherboards.