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The process that tests the motherboard and various hardware components at startup is known as POST, which stands for Power-On Self-Test. When the computer is powered on, the POST routine is executed by the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). Its primary function is to perform a series of checks to ensure that essential hardware components, such as the CPU, RAM, and other critical peripherals, are functioning correctly before allowing the operating system to load.

POST checks for basic hardware integrity, ensures that connections are secure, and identifies any potential hardware issues. If the POST successfully completes without errors, the system will proceed to load the operating system. If the POST detects any issues, it may emit beep codes or visual error codes that inform the user about the hardware that is problematic, which can help in troubleshooting.

While BIOS is involved in this routine, it is primarily the POST that carries out the testing of hardware. The other options mention specific components or diagnostic phrases, but they do not encapsulate the complete routine focused on hardware checks at startup as effectively as POST.