What is the scope of the MS-DOS MODE command: which device-related tasks can it perform on a typical DOS system?

Introduction / Context:
The MS-DOS MODE utility is a versatile command used to view and adjust settings for several device classes, notably displays, serial ports, and printers. Knowing the breadth of MODE helps troubleshoot character widths, baud rates, and printer redirection without third-party tools, especially on minimal boot disks or recovery environments.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• You are working in an MS-DOS shell with MODE available.
• Your system includes a text-mode display, COM/LPT ports, and possibly attached printers.
• You need to either view current configurations or change them.

Concept / Approach:
MODE can query and configure multiple device aspects. For displays, it can change text columns (for example, MODE CO80, MODE CO40). For printers and LPT ports, it can set code pages, select devices, and redirect output. For serial ports, it can set parameters such as baud rate, parity, data bits, and stop bits and show current statuses. Consequently, the comprehensive answer that captures MODE's range is that it can both display information and provide control across these device types.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
After issuing a MODE change, run MODE or an appropriate command again to confirm the updated state (for example, a new baud rate on COM1 or a shift to 40 columns on the display).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Display information only: Too narrow; MODE also configures devices.
• Control printers only: Ignores display and serial configuration capabilities.
• Change display only: Ignores printer and serial features.
• None of the above: Incorrect because MODE handles all of the listed areas.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming MODE affects graphics modes or mouse settings, misusing regional code page options, and forgetting that different DOS versions may expose slightly different MODE features.

Final Answer:
All of the above