ESCD

Short for Extended System Configuration Data, ESCD refers to a set of data stored in the BIOS (basic input/output system) of a computer. Developed by Intel, Compaq, and Phoenix Technologies, the ESCD contains information about the system's configuration and the installed hardware components. The ESCD helps ensure that the system loads correctly and that hardware components are recognized and configured appropriately.

The ESCD is used by the BIOS, the operating system, and by the PnP (plug and play) system. During the boot process, the BIOS reads the ESCD to obtain information about the system's hardware, such as the type of processor, memory modules, storage devices, and other peripherals. This information is then passed to the operating system which uses it to initialize and set up the hardware components. The PnP system allows the operating system to automatically detect and configure hardware devices without requiring a user to take any action, such as installing drivers.

Computer abbreviations, Expansion card, Hardware, ISA, Operating system terms, Process