What is POST?

     POST stands for Power-On-Self-Test. The computer power-on self-test tests the computer to make sure it meets the necessary system requirements and that all hardware is working properly before starting the remainder of the boot process. If the computer passes the POST, the computer may have a single beep (with some computer BIOS suppliers it may beep twice) as the computer starts and the computer will continue to start normally.

First stage of a typical POST operation.

Bios Manufacturer : American Megatrends Inc.                          

Motherboard          : Asus P5KPL                                                 
Bios version            : 0603                                                   

CPU                        : Intel Pentium Dual CPU E2180 @ 2.00 Ghz

The second stage of a POST

This will show the boot sequence (usually you can see at the bottom boot from cd...) . And also you can see the hardisk, optical, floppy drive and controllers configuration at this stage.