PC Firmware Terminology In the term “ROM BIOS,” what does the acronym BIOS correctly stand for?

Introduction / Context:
The Basic Input Output System (BIOS) is foundational firmware that initializes hardware and starts the operating system. Knowing the correct expansion of BIOS helps distinguish it from OS software and other firmware terms like UEFI and ROM.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• BIOS resides in non-volatile memory (historically ROM, now flash).
• It provides low-level routines for device initialization and bootstrapping.
• The question asks only for the correct expansion of the acronym.

Concept / Approach:

BIOS stands for Basic Input Output System. It exposes basic I/O services and firmware interfaces that allow a PC to perform POST, discover bootable devices, and hand off control to a bootloader or OS kernel.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

PC hardware documentation, service manuals, and vendor specs universally cite “Basic Input Output System” as the standard expansion for BIOS; UEFI is the modern replacement but the acronym remains historically accurate.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Basic Intuitive Output Set / Basic Input Organizational System / Basic Industry Operating System: These are not industry terms and incorrectly describe either scope or function. None of the above: Incorrect because a correct choice is present.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing BIOS with the operating system; assuming BIOS and UEFI are identical (they are different firmware models).

Final Answer:

Basic Input Output System