Personal Computer Hardware Maintenance Manual

Table Of Contents

Chapter 6. Using the Setup Utility

The Setup Utility program is used to view and change the configuration settings of

your computer, regardless of which operating system you are using. However, the

operating-system settings might override any similar settings in the Setup Utility

program.

Starting the Setup Utility program

To start the Setup Utility program, do the following:

1. If your computer is already on when you start this procedure, shut down the

operating system and turn off the computer.

2. Repeatedly press and release the F1 key when turning on the computer. When

you hear multiple beeps, release the F1 key. The Setup Utility program opens.

Note:

If a Power-On Password or an Administrator Password has been set, the

Setup Utility program menu is not displayed until you type the correct

password. For more information, see “Using passwords.”

The

Setup Utility program might start automatically when POST detects that

hardware has been removed or new hardware has been installed in your computer.

Viewing and changing settings

The Setup Utility program menu lists items that identify system configuration

topics. To view or change settings, see “Starting the Setup Utility program.”

When working with the Setup Utility program menu, you must use the keyboard.

The keys used to perform various tasks are displayed at the bottom of each screen.

Using passwords

By using the Setup Utility program, you can set passwords to prevent

unauthorized persons from gaining access to your computer and data. See

“Starting the Setup Utility program.” The following types of passwords are

available:

v Power-On Password

v Administrator Password

v Hard Disk User Password

You

do not have to set any passwords to use your computer. However, if you

decide to set any passwords, read the following sections.