Boot Process

Correct Answer: The BIOS is not detecting the hard drive

The error message 'No bootable device found' indicates that the computer's BIOS is not detecting a bootable operating system on any connected storage devices, such as the hard drive. This error typically occurs when the BIOS cannot find a valid boot sector on the primary boot device. A newly installed graphics card, system overheating, or a corrupted operating system would not directly cause this specific error message at the BIOS level before the operating system begins to load. Therefore, the most likely cause is that the BIOS is not detecting the hard drive or the drive has failed, preventing the computer from booting into the operating system.

Correct Answer: Verify that the boot order is correct in the BIOS settings

The best answer is to verify that the boot order is correct in the BIOS settings. If the system freezes on a black screen with a blinking cursor after the BIOS screen, it suggests that the system is unable to find a bootable device or operating system. By checking and ensuring the correct boot order in the BIOS, you can make sure the system is attempting to boot from the proper device, such as the hard drive with the installed operating system. Replacing the CMOS battery would not directly address a boot order issue. Reinstalling the operating system may resolve boot issues but should be attempted after verifying the boot order. Replacing the motherboard is unnecessary and too drastic for this specific boot problem.

Correct Answer: BIOS/UEFI firmware

The BIOS/UEFI firmware is responsible for executing the Power-On Self-Test (POST) during the boot process. This is the correct answer because:

1. BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is the first software that runs when a computer is powered on.
2. It initializes and tests hardware components before loading the operating system.
3. The POST is a crucial part of this initialization process, checking the integrity and functionality of essential hardware.

The other options are incorrect:

CPU (Central Processing Unit):
- While the CPU executes the POST instructions, it doesn't initiate or control the process.
- The CPU is one of the components tested during POST, not the component responsible for running it.

Operating system kernel:
- The OS kernel loads after the POST is completed.
- It's not involved in the initial hardware checks or boot process initialization.

Boot loader:
- The boot loader runs after the POST and BIOS/UEFI initialization.
- Its primary function is to load the operating system, not to perform hardware tests.

In summary, the BIOS/UEFI firmware is the component that initiates and manages the entire boot process, including the crucial Power-On Self-Test.