How do I access the BIOS on WinXP?

Good Afternoon Staff and readers,

As a general question: How do I access the Windows XP HE SP2 BIOS settings for current status and possible changes?
I often run into the suggestion to check "your BIOS settings." I used F2 Setup option before the Windows blue screen appears, but have not clearly seen that this is the BIOS location. Please let me see how you respond to such a request.

Sincerely,
langbein

 

Thank you, Steve,

Sorry that I failed to mention that I'm using a Dell 4600. I appreciate your prompt response to my question. I have certainly used the F2 Setup, but it seems so limited in information that I've been disappointed relative to the "hype" that BIOS seems to get. In fact the acronym never appears.
I have been interested recently as I'm trying to configure SUSE Linux 9.3 as my first "attempt" at another OS. This OS boot sequence, when the details are displayed, indicates that the DMA is turned off on its hard drive (a second internal hd devoted entirely to Linux). Yet when I've used F2 the UDMA is shown to be working as are the indicators in Start/Control Panel/System/Hardware/Device Manager, etc. I guess F2 is as close as the user can get to BIOS.

Sincerely,
Scott

 

Here is the Dell Linux forum (non-Dell installed):
http://forums.us.dell.com/supportforums/board?board.id=sw_linux

Personally, I think you would be better off installing Linux on an unbranded computer. I don't think Dell really want to support any operating systems that they have not sold with the computer.

Matt

 

Scott,

In OEM computers (like Dell, HP, etc.) the BIOS (Basic Input Output System) is usually 'crippled' (limited) as to not let users mess with system settings. A definition of BIOS can been found here .
You have found your BIOS using your F2 key. What you have found is limited and probably not very helpful if you're looking for 'advanced' configuration options.

B

 

Hello Mr. B,
<What you have found is limited and probably not very helpful if you're looking for 'advanced' configuration options.>

Yes, the limitation of F2 prior to the MS blue introduction screen is what I've always thought was correct. I needed some independent confirmation. Back in my post #3 I commented that it was probably about what the "average Joe" was able to display; it is too bad, as many bulletin board monitors suggest BIOS assessment.

Thank you for your help.
Scott

 

An FYI for everybody - Dells use the DEL key as well to get into the BIOS.

Regards - Charles

 

Hello charlesvar,
I read your latest post in the issue of finding Winxp BIOS; just tried the del key without other assisting keys and the boot to Winxp continued without interruption. Certainly no F2 screen. Do I need additional keys or a key in combo with the del key?

TTFN,
Scott

 

Hi Scott,

Don't know what to tell you, but it works both ways on mine - I've always used the DEL key; may be BIOS version issue - mine is A09, but it gets to the same place

Now you've made me curious though, there are a number of Dells of various vintage that I can check this on.

Regards - Charles