How to update the Bios
Unknown to most users, the BIOS software is essential for the proper functioning of the PC . Without it, Windows could not start . Unlike other software, the BIOS is not stored on the hard drive is housed in the bowels of the machine inside an electronic component located on the motherboard . On all newer PCs , this component is a flash memory. This means that if necessary the BIOS can be easily updated using a simple software ( MS- DOS ) .
This process is called flash (Hence the term " Flashing the Bios ").
In practice, this involves a serious risk :
if the process terminates unexpectedly , the PC can not work at all ! Many users who have heard of the possibility of updating the BIOS are still tempted to do so. So remember that the Flashing Bios shall be made only if it is really necessary. For example, to deal with malfunctions or problems of compatibility between hardware and software.
Access to new functions
Sometimes , the update also enables access to new functions (eg for overclocking ). But it may happen that an update is generating new concerns . This case remains very rare . If you are determined to complete the transaction , you need to get a version of the BIOS newer than you have. For the PC brand , you usually find on the manufacturer's website (the download is free) .
If you built your own micro home an assembler, or is a non-branded PC or an unknown brand, turn to the editor of the BIOS ( to know , see the Home screen of the Bios or the PC manual ), contact the manufacturer of the motherboard , or ask your dealer. If you understand English , you will also find information on Unicore.com and on page Winfiles.cnet. In all cases , carefully check the documentation for the new version. It is almost always in English , use a dictionary if you have any doubt about the meaning of a word or on the details of the procedure .
Create a Startup Disk
In the example presented here , we have updated the Bios of a Compaq computer. For the other major manufacturers , the procedure differs very little . However, in some cases, you must create yourself a boot floppy or boot the PC in MS - DOS. The instructions are always detailed in the documentation that accompanies the downloaded file .
Finally , if something goes wrong and you 're not very secured in the computer field , do not try to go back through manipulation risky as this may aggravate the situation. Instead, see a dealer who offers a help desk.
Beware of hidden code
Whatever version of Windows used by your PC, you can flash your Bios. But some major brand PC you can reserve a (bad) surprises when you want to restart Windows, especially if it is Windows Millennium. In fact , it happens more often than the BIOS to contain , well hidden , a code number. The same code is hidden in Windows . Every time you start the PC, Windows checks prior to launch, its code is the same as the bios. In principle, almost everyone takes advantage of Microsoft protects against illegal copying because Windows can not run on another PC as that with which it is sold , in return , Windows is sold cheaper for manufacturers who accept this coverage and ultimately the buyer saves on the purchase of their PC . But if you decide to flash the bios of such a machine , you remove the code ... and Windows will not work . Better , then, before you start , check with the manufacturer to ensure that the operation is feasible .
1 - Check the version of BIOS installed
Start your PC and , during the first few seconds of initialization , press access Bios , usually Del or Del , F2 or F10 . If you do not know which key to press , watch the screen at startup, because it is often mentioned briefly . Otherwise , see the PC manual .
When menus are displayed Bios , locate the number and date of the release. Note these and other technical information displayed by the various menus . In case of problems , you restore it easier for the original configuration . Validate, if it exists, the authorization option writing bios. Finally , see the documentation for the PC whether to move a jumper on the motherboard to validate the updated bios. If so , turn off the PC, open the box and adjust the jumper.
2 - Download the new version on the Internet
Log onto the website of the manufacturer of your PC and locate the Support or Support. Start by visiting the French site, if any, to detect the presence ( rather unlikely) of a specific version of Bios for models sold in France. Alternatively, visit the international site . Locate the program update (Bios Update, Rom Update , or Flash BIOS ROMPaq for Compaq ). Do not download software that is specifically recommended for your model . The proposed Bios must always be one that is specifically tailored to your PC . When in doubt , ask by e- mail to the helpdesk. And make sure that the date of the update is later than the version already installed.
3 - Create the disk update
Once downloaded, follow the instructions to unzip the file ( if it is a Zip file ) and copy the image of the program update on disk ( because the flash can not s Perform in Windows) . In our example, the procedure is very simple, since the manufacturer provides a self- executable program that automates the process of creating a flash disk . It simply insert a blank floppy disk drive , preferably previously formatted .
4 - Start the process of flashing
Then exit Windows and turn your PC off . Insert the flash disk into the drive and reboot the PC. After loading the program update , follow the instructions on the screen .
Attention : how to flash the BIOS should be interrupted for any reason. If it is incomplete for any reason , the PC can not boot and the bios is incomplete , you can not start flashing . Better to avoid the stormy days , and if you have a UPS , connect it .
Finally , if during the process of flashing the software provides a backup of the old BIOS , enable this feature. This will allow you to restore it if necessary , possibly by moving a jumper on the motherboard ( see the documentation of the PC) .
