(PnP). The ability of a computer to automatically detect and configure new hardware components when they are plugged in, without requiring the user to go through complicated installation procedures. With plug and play, it should be possible to immediately use a new peripheral as soon as it is plugged in. Macintosh equipment has always been plug and play; PC users have it since Windows 95. A computer must have a plug and play BIOS on the motherboard as well as the right operating system for plug and play. Expansion boards are designed specifically for plug and play, though if an older expansion board is added, the plug and play system will help the user find the correct settings for it.