answersLogoWhite

0

Assuming the question refers to a PC, (or unambiguously) "personal computer", any computer needs some mechanism with which to "get started". The term "bootstrap" or simply "booting" refers to an old phrase "pulling up by the boot straps" and refers to how one, or something; a computer; gets running.

All computers, even early ones, need instructions to basically tell them what to do first. Early computers needed to have a program loaded (via paper cards, or paper tapes, punched with holes representing data which was read into memory and then run as a program which started "everything up") manually by hand.

Modern computers still need something to "start them" but the instructions needed are stored in permanent memory in an integrated circuit, or "chip", in the computer making the process totally automatic.

In more detail:

The instructions used for starting modern computers is typically called the "BIOS" which is an acronym for "Basic Input Output System". It is this program, or "instructions", which first executes when the computer is first powered up. This program does numerous basic tests checking what the hardware looks like, and that its operating correctly.

After the hardware tests, the BIOS then begins to set up basic operating data in main memory (RAM) outlining what hardware is installed in the computer, and how it works, and how to talk to it.

After all this is done, the BIOS then looks for a device to "boot" from, meaning it looks for any device which has the "right look" for it to have the next program to run. Usually, this is the operating system (OS) which then takes control of the computer from that point on.

The BIOS contains numerous simple ways of "talking" to the rest of the computer. However, most modern operating systems (like Linux, Windows, Apple OS, etc.) have better methods of controlling the computer as they have the ability to "figure out" all the details of the computer whereas the BIOS must work no matter what and can thus only reliably provide simple (basic as in BIOS) functions sufficient for the operating system to "get a clue" and then allow it to take total control of the machine.

Once the BIOS does it's testing and basic setup, it then gives up control of the computer to the operating system which then takes over all operations of the computer.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

Steps of booting a computer?

"what are the different steps during computer booting? "what are the different steps during computer booting? "what are the different steps during computer booting? "what are the different steps during computer booting? "what are the different steps during computer booting? "what are the different steps during computer booting?


What are the internal tasks or activities involved during booting of a computer?

lund


What holds all the instructions the computer needs to start up?

it is the ROM . The ROM has firmware which controls the booting up of the computer during start up. The booting software, known as BIOS (Basic Input Output System) give instructions to the POST (Power On Self-Test) which then runs tests to on the computer to make sure that all the devices are well connected to the computer. Sometimes this process is so fast that when observed, it appears as if there is are no tests being run by the POST process.


Which file in MsDos contains internal commands that are loaded during booting process?

In MS-DOS, the file that contains internal commands loaded during the booting process is COMMAND.COM. This file serves as the command line interpreter and contains the basic commands necessary for operating the system. When MS-DOS starts, COMMAND.COM is loaded into memory, allowing users to execute commands and run programs.


What is normal testing in computer terms?

It's called booting up the computer. During the boot up the computer runs a number of tests to ensure everything is operating withing established perimeters. .


How to reboot the computer with the CD in the drive?

The order of devices the computer looks at during booting may need to be changed. During the boot sequence, escape to the BIOS and see what order it is and change and save the configuration if necessary.


What is boot in a computer?

Booting is defined as: "The time when a computer's motherboard, Hard Drive, RAM, and other peripherals receive power from the distributor." During this time the computer's OS (Operating System [instructions for the computer]) are loaded into the RAM and several small diagnostics are run (mouse, keyboard, USB, monitor). Depending on your computer's available memory, Operating system, and number of boot files, this can take anywhere from 30 seconds to about two and a half seconds. An example is the Windows XP screen with the small, green scrolling bar at the bottom.


The processing of loading system software into a computer's main memory from disk is known as?

The processing of loading system software into a computer's main memory from disk is known as "booting" or "bootstrapping." This process involves initializing the hardware and loading the operating system into RAM, allowing the computer to become operational. During booting, the system performs a series of checks and configurations to prepare for user operations.


What are the functions of the CPU components RAM ROM Arithmetic and Logic unit?

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is composed of several key components, each with distinct functions. RAM (Random Access Memory) serves as temporary storage for data and instructions that the CPU is currently processing, allowing for quick access and manipulation. ROM (Read-Only Memory) contains permanent instructions essential for booting the computer and performing basic functions, which cannot be modified during normal operation. The Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU) performs all arithmetic calculations and logical operations, enabling the CPU to execute instructions and process data effectively.


List four computer symptons that indicate a faulty power supply?

1. PC appears "dead"- no lights, no spinning HD or fan 2. PC sometimes halts during booting and then after several attempts boots 3. Error codes or beeps occur during booting, but they come and go 4. You smell burnt parts or odors.


Control unit of a digital computer is to?

Read & Execute instructions provided during execution of Programs.


What role does ROM play in a computer system and how does it contribute to its overall functionality?

Read-only memory (ROM) in a computer system stores essential instructions and data that are permanently programmed during manufacturing. It plays a crucial role in booting up the system and providing basic functions, such as firmware updates and system diagnostics. ROM contributes to the overall functionality of a computer by ensuring that key processes are carried out smoothly and reliably, even when the system is powered off.