What is the function of a CMOS chip in a computer system?

The CMOS chip, which stands for Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor, plays a crucial role in a computer system by storing essential data that the system requires to boot up. This data includes the system configuration settings, such as the date and time, hardware settings, and the Boot Order—a set of instructions that helps the computer to know how to initiate the boot process and which storage devices to prioritize during startup.

The CMOS memory retains this data even when the computer is powered off because it is powered by a small battery on the motherboard. This persistent storage is vital for ensuring that the computer can remember its configurations each time it is turned on. The booting process heavily relies on the information stored in the CMOS chip, making it integral to the overall functionality of the computer.

In contrast, managing system updates and installations is typically handled by the operating system and various software utilities, while the main processing tasks are performed by the CPU, not the CMOS chip. Additionally, a CMOS chip does not serve as a power supply; rather, it relies on the motherboard's battery to maintain its stored data.