What does POST stand for in computer hardware testing?

The correct answer is Power-On Self Test. This is a crucial diagnostic process that occurs when a computer is powered on. During POST, the system performs a series of checks to ensure that the hardware components required for the computer to function correctly are operational. This includes verifying the integrity of the RAM, detecting connected devices such as hard drives and keyboards, checking the CPU functionality, and ensuring that essential system is in place to proceed with the boot process.

If any issues are discovered during this self-test, the system will not proceed to load the operating system and will often provide an error code or beep sequence to indicate the specific problem. This functionality is a fundamental part of the system’s startup routine, ensuring that hardware-related issues are addressed before attempting to start the operating system.

The other options do not accurately reflect the standard terminology or processes associated with computer hardware testing at startup. For instance, while "Peripheral Output System Test" and "Processor Onboard System Test" reference testing components, they do not describe the comprehensive hardware testing that POST performs. Similarly, "Primary Operating System Test" suggests a focus on software, which is outside the scope of what POST is intended to verify.