motherboard bios update, HELP!!!

[burgyman]

i have an enpc kb21bx motherboard, its about a year old now, and id like to update the bios. i have never done it before and know it isnt easy! will somebody please run a newbie through how to do it for this particular mobo? PLEASE!!!!!! i await with baited breath to see if you can help me!!!!!!!

[Psycho-holic Slag]

search the forum for 'BIOS.' it'll take a little time, but you'll find your answer and probably learn something along the way. good luck.

next time you have a question you may want to include specific information such as make/model of motherboard. BIOS updates are pretty similar all around for the most part.

[Mr97]

I can't really help too much there, but I give you a general idea. Go to the manufacturer's web site and download the Flash Utility and the Updated BIOS file. Be sure to read the instructions on the site.

In DOS, go into your Flash Utility and save existing BIOS in one file. Next, try updating with new one. Basically, the only trick is not to turn off a computer until Flashing is successful. Otherwise, say good bye to your CMOS chip.

One other thing, if you don't need to flash your BIOS, you don't have to. Motherboard manufacturers don't usually recommend such a practise, and it may void your warranty.

Mr97

[Fingers]

I agree with MR97, if you’re not familiar with flashing a bios, don't do it unless you have a compelling reason to do so. A failed BIOS update will leave your computer about a useful as a box of rocks. It is also highly recommended that you be connected to an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) during the flash process.

Did I scare you?...Good, this is serious stuff if done improperly, but it is pretty safe if you’re careful.

Here is the ENPC BIOS update website: http://www.enpc.com.tw/enpcbios.htm. Their instructions seem somewhat vague compared to the instructions I've seen for other BIOS updates.

I've only flashed 2 bios'. I'm no expert, thus I'm not comfortable giving detailed instructions. Here are some things to consider that are not mentioned on the ENPC site:

1) The BIOS must be flashed from DOS (not a DOS Window)
2) A "clean" bootable floppy or Windows startup disk should be used to start DOS, to insure that no unnecessary programs are loading.
3) The flash utility (.exe) and the Bios update (.bin) files should be located in the same directory (preferably, on a separate formatted floppy).
4) Always save a copy of your "old" Bios, if the utility program offers this option.
5) Print out a hard copy of the instructions before you begin.
6) Use an UPS if at all possible.
7) Be absolutely certain that the Bios and Flash Utility program that you downloaded are correct for your specific motherboard.

Hopefully, one of our many experts will be able to provide you with the specific instructions that you requested.

Be careful, Good Luck. http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/smile.gif



[This message has been edited by Fingers (edited 09-11-2000).]