have got and how do I update it.
2007-01-30 20:00:28 · 5 answers · asked by B i n g o 4 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Desktops
It's easy to do. But. I would only do it if you are having problems that need fixed with an upgrade. The main risk is from a power failure. If something goes wrong when updating, then you could kill it.
It's much the same story for all flashing. Just run the utility. Often that is done from a bootable floppy, or just from within windows. Never had any problems myself. Just remember, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it".
2007-01-30 20:14:52 · answer #1 · answered by 👑 Hypocrite 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It is not as risky as it sound, but there are potentially expensive mistakes you can make. The first thing to know is that if your existing motherboad is an old one, some of the components may not be compatible with a new motherboard you want to buy. The following will most probably be OK: drives (unless your new MB only takes SATA and your old ones are ATA), video cards, PCI cards. If is likely that your CPU will not go into the new MB and the memory may not if they are older types and not DDR or DDR2.
It is possible to find out what MB you have by removing the covers off your PC and looking at the MB itself. But that does not help you in choosing a new one. My suggestion is to think of what you want to do with your new PC and not be tied to your old hardware. You may need to discard some old stuff but it is better than constraining yourself too much by your existing PC.
If you are going for a big jump from your existing PC, get some advice from someone with IT experience. The newer CPUs may even need a new power supply. It may be cheaper to buy a new one.
2007-01-30 20:18:40 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Julian ... I mean " C J " (LOL ... I'm also a Trailer Park Boys fan) is absolutely right ... be careful.
My question is why ? Do it because you've never done it before is not a good reason.
If it ain't broke ... don't fix it.
To identify the mainboard use the tips on this page :
http://www.pcnineoneone.com/howto/moboid1.html
regards,
Philip T
2007-01-30 20:18:10 · answer #3 · answered by Philip T 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Only update your formware (BIOS) if the update says it resolves an issue that you currently are experiancing. other than that leave it alone!!
But if you must flash you BIOS out of curiosity you must make sure you have the EXACT update for your EXACT BIOS for your EXACT mainboard or you will render it useless, the whole thing.
Also, if you have a power failure when doing this your computer will cease to function.
2007-01-30 21:20:18 · answer #4 · answered by Timothy L 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I strongly suggest you have a tech do it ... if needed.
If you botch it, you will need a new motherboard - seriously.
2007-01-30 20:03:07 · answer #5 · answered by C J 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋