| How to Update Your Computer's Bios |
 |
BIOS, or Basic Input Output System, is a type of software that’s stored in a chip which is mounted on your computer’s motherboard. This chip holds the codes that allow the computer to control various hardware devices such as keyboards, mice, and disk drives. As you add new hardware to your system, you may have to upgrade the BIOS in order for it to control it.
Updating the BIOS is risky and isn’t a job for everyone. Mistakes and incorrect BIOS chips for your model could result in a computer that won’t boot. Make sure you understand the risks and are confident in what you are doing before attempting a BIOS update on your own.
First, check with your computer manufacturer and/or the motherboard manufacturer for information about update the BIOS. Your computer’s user’s manual may have this information or the manufacturer’s website may have it. For example, if you have a Toshiba laptop computer, the Toshiba website has a support area that lets you search for downloads specific to your exact model. You can search for device drivers and BIOS updates.
You should also double check by rebooting your computer and entering the BIOS Setup screen. This process varies by computer so you’ll need to check your manual for exact instructions. Sometimes you must hit the “delete” key during the reboot but other times you must hit some other key or combination of keys. In addition, each manufacturer has their own BIOS interface so BIOS settings also vary by manufacturer. Once in BIOS Setup, you can view the details about the BIOS. Use the Print option to print out copies of this information. You’ll want to note the manufacturer and model of the BIOS including any version numbers or dates.
If you still can’t find your BIOS information, you may need to physically inspect the motherboard and check the BIOS chip for this information.
Some BIOS can be “flash” upgraded. If this is the case, download the utility from the BIOS manufacturer’s website and follow the instructions for upgrading the BIOS in this manner.
If not, check to see if an updated BIOS chip is available and if it will fit into the same location on your motherboard. If it is available and will fit, purchase the chip and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Reboot your computer and enter BIOS setup. If everything is fine, you’re done. If not, you may need to adjust a few settings.
Warnings and Tips
· It’s critical that you read all instructions and only install the correct version of BIOS for your system. For example, a current BIOS update is available for Toshiba Satellite A130 notebook computers; however, it is only for those computers running Windows Vista. If you are running Windows XP on this model laptop, this BIOS is not appropriate and it could make the computer inoperable.
· Sometimes it’s easier, cheaper, and more desirable to buy a new computer. For example, not all BIOS chips will fit into the existing BIOS slot which will require replacing the entire motherboard.
Top pick for the best Driver Update Software:
 |
 |
