The ASRock 990FX Extreme4 motherboard, a popular choice for AMD-based systems, relies on its BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) to initialize hardware components and provide the foundation for the operating system to load. The BIOS version 2.00, released in October 2012, represents a specific iteration of this crucial firmware, offering potential improvements, bug fixes, and compatibility enhancements compared to earlier versions. This article provides an overview of the ASRock 990FX Extreme4 Bios 2.00, detailing its features, update procedures, and important considerations for users looking to upgrade.
Overview
The BIOS acts as the intermediary between the hardware and software of a computer. It performs a power-on self-test (POST) to ensure all components are functioning correctly, configures hardware settings, and manages the boot process. Updating the BIOS can resolve issues related to hardware compatibility, improve system stability, and even unlock new features.
As of its last update on October 19, 2012, the ASRock 990FX Extreme4 Bios 2.00, accessible via the filename 990FX%20Extreme4(2.00)WIN.zip, offered users a potentially enhanced computing experience.
What’s New
Unfortunately, the original release notes do not explicitly detail the specific changes implemented in BIOS version 2.00. Typically, BIOS updates include a combination of the following:
- Improved Hardware Compatibility: Support for newer CPUs, memory modules, or other expansion cards.
- Bug Fixes: Resolution of issues that may have caused system instability, crashes, or incorrect hardware detection.
- Performance Enhancements: Optimization of system performance through tweaks to memory timings, CPU voltage control, or other settings.
- Security Updates: Patches to address potential security vulnerabilities within the BIOS.
Without specific release notes, users would need to rely on community feedback or conduct their own testing to identify the exact changes included in this update.
Updating the BIOS
ASRock provides a utility called "Instant Flash" for updating the BIOS. The original documentation outlines two methods for using Instant Flash:
- Method 1 (Assumptions): This method assumes the user will download the BIOS file, extract it, and place the extracted BIOS file on a USB drive. They would then enter the BIOS setup utility, usually by pressing DEL during startup, and navigate to the Instant Flash utility to select and flash the new BIOS from the USB drive.
- Method 2 (Assumptions): This method assumes that the user will use the ASRock’s Windows-based flashing utility. User will execute the utility and point to the downloaded BIOS file to flash.
Important Considerations
- Risk of Failure: Updating the BIOS carries a risk of failure, which can render the motherboard unusable. It’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully and ensure a stable power supply during the update process.
- Backup: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided text, it is always advisable to back up your current BIOS settings before updating. Some motherboards offer a feature to save the existing BIOS to a file, allowing you to revert to the previous version if necessary.
- Power Interruption: The most critical point is to avoid any power interruption during the flashing process. A sudden power outage can corrupt the BIOS and brick the motherboard. Using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is highly recommended.
- Repeat the Process: If you encounter problems during the update, the documentation advises repeating the process.
- Seek Professional Help: If the problem persists, and especially if the system fails to boot after a failed flash, the documentation recommends seeking professional service. Attempting to repair a corrupted BIOS yourself can be risky and may void your warranty.
Filename and Download
The BIOS file for ASRock 990FX Extreme4 Bios 2.00 is named 990FX%20Extreme4(2.00)WIN.zip.
Download Link: Unfortunately, the original article does not provide a direct download link. However, you can usually find the BIOS file on the ASRock website under the support section for the ASRock 990FX Extreme4 motherboard.
Alternative Download Link: As ASRock can sometimes make older BIOS files difficult to locate directly on their site, you might find it on third-party driver repositories. Be cautious when downloading from unofficial sources and verify the file’s integrity before flashing. One such alternative download site for the ASRock 990FX Extreme4 Bios 2.00 is https://www.driverscape.com/manufacturers/asrock/motherboards/990fx-extreme4/516. However, users should always exercise caution when downloading from third-party sites and ensure they have adequate virus protection.
Conclusion
The ASRock 990FX Extreme4 Bios 2.00 is a firmware update for the ASRock 990FX Extreme4 motherboard that was released in 2012. Updating the BIOS can improve system stability, compatibility, and performance, but it also carries a risk of failure. Users should follow the instructions carefully, ensure a stable power supply, and back up their current BIOS settings before updating. If problems persist after attempting the update, it’s crucial to seek professional help. While specific details regarding improvements included in the ASRock 990FX Extreme4 Bios 2.00 are not readily available, users can often find valuable information and support from online communities and forums dedicated to the ASRock 990FX Extreme4.