Bios updates....WHY?

[SuperJudge_XIII]

What is the purpose of updating the bios? I just recently purchased a new motherboard and checked for updated drivers and saw that there is also updated bios files. Should I or shouldn't I update? And if yes, how?

Thanks!

[billmez]

Hi,

Basically speaking the bios is the code contained on a motherboard chip that allows the OS to communicate with the hardware by setting up the channels and parameters for that communication.

Check the manufacturers web site and see if they have listed what fixes or new features the bios update includes. If there is nothing significant (especially in the way of fixes), and you are not having any problems with the system, there is no need to update. (updates are usually either fixes or support for new or additional hardware such as higher processor speeds.)

If you do need to update it, manufactures have specific instructions for their BIOS usually included in the update file (FOLLOW THEM EXACTLY) and make sure you follow the instructions to save a copy of your old bios just in case.

Bottom line, If it ain't broke- don't fix it.

Good luck,

Bill

[Tushar]

Yes I agree with bottom line given by Billmez above. Even I had a same post very recently. And the advices and tips by many senior and other members, told me the same. If it ain't broke don't fix it.

But do definitely know where you can find updates, it may be required one another day.

[Sowulo]

It might even be a good idea to check for, and download updates often. Just archive them for insurance against some future date when you need them and your manufacturers site is down or worse, they've gone out of business.

[Ruslan]

Originally posted by Sowulo:
It might even be a good idea to check for, and download updates often. Just archive them for insurance against some future date when you need them and your manufacturers site is down or worse, they've gone out of business.

I couldn't say it better! Unless You're familiar with BIOSes, stand-alone flash programmers and so on - BE ON SAFE SIDE OF CAUTION!

[SuperJudge_XIII]

I would like to thank everyone who replied. I have downloaded the latest update but I'm not going to install them. I recently had a tech tell me that he wasn't a big fan of the particular mobo that I have so if anyone can give me any suggestions about another please feel free. I currently have a SOYO mobo, for an AMD Athlon 850, and use a TNT2 nvidia vid card. Any input would be much appreciated!

Thanks!

[Lycia]

The thing to remember is that bios updates are simply the same as Driver updates for things like video cards. A bios update either fixes issues found after the motherboard was shipped or adds certain features. As an example this is a list of fixes for my motherboard, Abit KA7-100:
Fixes the unstable issue with the mouse under Window95.
Increases the stability of SDRAMs.
Fixes the compatibility issue with the Matrox G400 AGP Card.
Fixes the compatibility issue with the SCSI Cards

I noticed that it also added a few options in the bios menu.

In some cases, it might be best to update even if nothing is broke.

[CookieMonster]

I agree with lycia69. Sometimes I have noticed that the description of what the bios updates is not complete. I have been pleasently surprised at times to find additional fixes/updates that were never mentioned.

[britaries]

i agree with lycia69 and cookiemonster. i have flashed several bioses before, and recieved "bonus" options. most of the mobo sites list a gist of what the update repairs. it takes to much time for them to list everything that has been patched (updated). also the language barrier. alot of mobos are made overseas. and it is easier for them to translate common words. another words they follow the k.i.s.s. rule. all the best, britaries :eek: