Personal Computer User Manual

Using the System Setup Program 31
Using the System Setup Program
After you set up your system, run the System Setup program to familiarize yourself with your system
configuration and optional settings. Record the information for future reference.
You can use the System Setup program to:
• Change the system configuration stored in NVRAM after you add, change, or remove hardware
• Set or change user-selectable options—for example, the time or date
• Enable or disable integrated devices
• Correct discrepancies between the installed hardware and configuration settings
Entering the System Setup Program
1 Turn on or restart your system.
2 Press <F2> immediately after you see the following message:
<F2> = System Setup
If your operating system begins to load before you press <F2>, allow the system to finish booting,
and then restart your system and try again.
NOTE: To ensure an orderly system shutdown, see the documentation that accompanied your operating
system.
Responding to Error Messages
You can enter the System Setup program by responding to certain error messages. If an error message
appears while the system is booting, make a note of the message. Before entering the System Setup
program, see "System Messages" on page 24 for an explanation of the message and suggestions for
correcting errors.
NOTE: After installing a memory upgrade, it is normal for your system to send a message the first time you
start your system.
Using the System Setup Program
Table 2-1 lists the keys that you use to view or change information on the System Setup program
screens and to exit the program.