BIOS Facts and Settings 3.4

What is the maximum drive size supported by UEFI?

Drives larger than 2.2 terabytes.

How does UEFI improve security compared to BIOS?

Protects against bootkits (malware targeting the boot process).

What type of drivers does UEFI support that BIOS does not?

64-bit firmware device drivers.

What compatibility does UEFI have with older systems?

Both BIOS and UEFI hardware.

What is “flashing” in the context of UEFI?

The process of updating UEFI to add new features or fix issues.

Where is the BIOS stored?

In a ROM (Read-Only Memory) chip on the motherboard.

What size range is typical for BIOS chips?

From 265 KB to 1 MB.

What is an Option ROM (OpROM)?

A BIOS chip found on expansion cards like video cards.

What does BIOS flashing do?

It updates the BIOS to support new hardware and add features.

What replaced CMOS chips in modern systems?

EEPROM replaced CMOS chips for storing BIOS/UEFI settings.

What kind of memory is EEPROM?

Non-volatile memory that allows individual bytes to be erased and reprogrammed.

When did EEPROM start being used for BIOS?

Became common in BIOS chips after 1994.

What advantage does EEPROM provide for BIOS updates?

Allows BIOS to be updated without opening the computer or removing chips.

What settings are stored in CMOS (now EEPROM)?

Hard disk types, boot device order, system hardware settings, and passwords.

How do you access CMOS settings?

By pressing keys like Delete, F1, or F2 during system startup to open the CMOS editor.

What does the CMOS battery do today?

It powers the real-time clock when the system is off.

What kind of power does the CMOS battery supply?

Very low power, about 1 millionth of an amp, lasting for years.

How can you reset a forgotten BIOS/UEFI password?

By removing or adjusting a jumper on the motherboard.

What system resources are configured after POST?

Allocated to plug-and-play devices based on CMOS and device information.

Why is it important to connect to a UPS before flashing BIOS?

A power outage during flashing can corrupt the BIOS and prevent the system from booting.

What is BIOS temperature monitoring?

A BIOS feature that displays system temperatures such as CPU and motherboard temps during POST or in BIOS setup.

Where can you find temperature monitoring in BIOS?

Usually under tabs like “Hardware Monitor,” “PC Health,” or “System Monitor.”

Why is BIOS temperature monitoring important?

It helps detect overheating issues before the OS loads, ensuring hardware stability and safety.

What components are typically monitored by BIOS temperature sensors?

CPU, motherboard chipset, VRMs, and sometimes GPU or case ambient temp.

What can you do if BIOS shows high temperatures?

Check thermal paste, fans, airflow, and heatsinks to improve cooling.

Can BIOS temperature readings be inaccurate?

Yes — older systems or faulty sensors can give misleading readings.

Does BIOS temperature monitoring work without an OS?

Yes — it functions independently and is built into the firmware.

Is BIOS temperature monitoring part of diagnostics?

Yes — it's part of built-in diagnostics to monitor hardware health.

Can third-party tools be used for temperature monitoring?

Yes — tools like HWMonitor or Core Temp provide more detailed info within the OS.

Is BIOS temperature monitoring focused on hardware or software?

Hardware — it reads directly from onboard sensors.

Where might temperature info appear in modern systems?

In a central monitoring tool or within a hardware monitoring section in BIOS/UEFI.

When is it useful to check BIOS temps?

After installing new hardware or if you suspect overheating — to verify proper cooling.