Why Do You Need a New BIOS?
by
thechas
·
about 11 years, 8 months ago
In reply to Acer BIOS
Yes, the BIOS downlaod and BIOS installer on the ACER website is for a Windows based Flash program. So you do need to be able to boot into Windows to run the Flash program to update the BIOS.
My primary question is why do you want to update the BIOS?
A BIOS update will seldom repair a no-boot issue for Windows.
If the thought is that the CMOS data is corrupt, Flashing the BIOS is NOT the first step to take. You need to locate the clear CMOS jumper, set it, then hit the power button, reset the jumper and then power up again and enter BIOS setup.
CAUTION: An improper BIOS update can make it so your computer cannot be repaired.
If you do not have the knowledge and skill to verify the correct BIOS and load process, you should NOT attempt to update your BIOS!!!!!
Now, if you do have a corrupt system BIOS, the first step is to see if you can boot to a boot floppy.
If you cannot boot to a command prompt using the floppy drive, you have no method to change the BIOS.
If you can boot with a floppy, then you need to determine which BIOS manufacture ACER used. Award, AMI, Phoenix.
You can copy the BIOS companies DOS mode Flash software onto your bootable floppy, and copy the .BIN file from the ACER download.
Boot from the floppy and run the flash program.
But again, I have SERIOUS doubts that a BIOS update will fix your computer.
Odds are that your motherboard has suffered a hardware failure and you will need to replace it or your system.
Keep in mind that you have less than 2 years left before Microsoft stops support for XP. Rather than repairing this computer, it might be better to put your money into a new Windows 7 system.
Chas