The BIOS Flash: To Flash or Not to Flash...

[RonKe]

HP sometimes recommends routine BIOS updates through Flashing.  I would never classify BIOS flashing as routine; rather, I prefer to consider it a method of last resort, such as repetitive BSODs, no boot up issues, etc.

Again, this information is not intended to scare people away from a valid and necessary BIOS flash, but rather to inform you to recognize if there is a critical need to flash your BIOS, to use care on ensuring the d/l of the proper HP BIOS update posted on the HP Support & Drivers page while using the exact Model and/or Product Number of your computer, and to consider the dire consequences if a flash should fail:

From the Intel BIOS Update Instructions page referenced in the body of the text below:

Important Notes:

• Update the BIOS on your computer only if the newer BIOS version specifically solves a problem you have. We do not recommend BIOS updates for computers that do not need it.

And:

If you flashed the BIOS and it stopped for whatever reason or you flashed the wrong BIOS version, there is nothing that you can do except to replace the BIOS IC. 

From Intel (link provided at the end)

Processors

PC Does Not Boot After Flashing the BIOS

Symptom(s):

No boot after BIOS update

Solution:

Important Note: Only a computer professional should assemble, disassemble, upgrade, or troubleshoot computers since the electronic devices may cause serious damage to the installer, the system, or its components if these actions are done improperly. Before attempting to disassemble or assemble computers, install components in a computer or troubleshoot computers, carefully review the documentation specific for the computer and its related components. Lastly, make sure to follow procedures to prevent damage from Electrostatic Discharge (ESD).

If you flashed the BIOS and it stopped for whatever reason or you flashed the wrong BIOS version, there is nothing that you can do except to replace the BIOS IC.

* If the system has a boot block to restore the original BIOS, use it. Refer to your system or motherboard documentation.

* If not, you will need to contact the system or motherboard manufacturer for a replacement.For Intel desktop boards, refer to BIOS Update Instructions for useful instruction on how to update your BIOS successfully.

For more information about troubleshooting IA platform systems, refer to the Troubleshooting for the IA Platform PDF document.

This applies to: Intel® Celeron® Processor Family

Intel® CoreTM2 Duo Desktop Processor

Intel® CoreTM2 Extreme Processor

Intel® Pentium® 4 Processor Extreme Edition

Intel® Pentium® 4 Processors

Intel® Pentium® D Processor

Intel® Pentium® III Processor

Intel® Pentium® III Xeon® Processor

Intel® Xeon® Processor

http://www.intel.com/support/processors/sb/CS-001659.htm

[iam_fletcher]

For the most part I ONLY flash a BIOS if it needs to be done. Typicaly in situations where there is a power managment issue or intermittant hardware problems. I've never had a BIOS Flash Brick a computer on me, but i've heard it's possible, so I do it as little as possible. I would never recomend regular BIOS updates to anyone, as they say, if it's not broke, don't fix it.

[cristi0866]

I Presario f550el, I did it update the BIOS and then-board wireless network disappeared from the device manager. Before the update we have not had problems. My question is if you find previous version? And if it is recommended downgrade BIOS?

[James_Cummins]

it's not a big deal, if you have no reason to flash a new bios, don't.  If you do, the reason must have been more significant that the small chance of having problems doing so.

However, I always prefer a DOS bios flash, no point in letting a frail windows installation foul up what is a simple thing IF/when needed.

[RonKe]

Two Points for J. Cummins or others:

1)  Several people has asked this question:  Should they REFLASH BACK to the previous BIOS version that was working to REFIX the problem that occurred with the new Flash?

2)  Please explain the step-by-step procedure for a DOS based BIOS Flash

Over the 1.5 years on the Business Forum, I  have seen a no small number of people ruin their computers because of a Bad BIOS Flash.

There have been 2 BIOS Flash failures posted on this Consummer Forum in the last 1.5 weeks, and one current just down thread.

Thanks