System Configuration 2-9
BIOS Setup Utility
The AMI BIOS Setup utility program is used to configure the main components
of the computer.
The computer ships from the factory with the correct system parameters for the
configuration. Unless optional hardware is added, it’s not necessary to run the
BIOS Setup utility to o p erate the s yst em. Howeve r , the Setu p ut ility shou ld be
run to set features that customize the system, such as security features.
System configuration information is stored in a nonvolatile memory device. The
device reta ins its data w hen system pow er is turned o ff. Nonvolat ile memor y is
stored in a complementary metal-oxide semiconducto r (CMOS ) memor y chip
backed up by a battery on the system board. The battery supplies continuous
power to CMOS memory and maintains configuration information when system
power is off (see “Battery Replacement” in Section 3).
NEC CSD recommends that the current BIOS Setup parameters be printed out
or written down and the information stored in a safe place. This lets you restore
the system to the current parameters if replacing the battery.

How to Start BIOS Setup

Follow these steps to start the BIOS Setup utility.
1. Turn on or reboot the system.
2. Press F2 as soon as you see the following message at the bottom of the NEC
startup screen.
Press F2 to enter BIOS Setup
You have abo ut five seco nd s to press F2 before the s yst em boot co ntinues.
3. Setup’s Main Menu appears and looks s imilar to the following screen.
Setup Main Menu
Main Menu
Main Advanced Security Exit
BIOS Version
Processor Type
Processor Speed
Cache RAM
Total Memory
DRAM Bank 0
DRAM Bank 1
System Date
System Time
Floppy Drive A
Floppy Drive B
Primary IDE Master
Primary IDE Slave
Secondary IDE Master
Secondary IDE Slave
VI.xxxx
Pentium
333 MHz
512 KB
32 Mb
SDRAM
None
Wed Jan 20 1999
10:17:59
1.44 MB 3 1/2
Not Installed
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Setup Help
Month: Jan-Dec
Day: 01-31
Year: 1901-2099
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Esc: Exit Enter: Select F5: Setup Defaults F6: Original Values F10: Save & Exit