ASRock H67M-GE/HT Bios 1.60

This article provides information regarding the ASRock H67M-GE/HT Bios version 1.60, a crucial piece of software that manages the fundamental operations of your motherboard. This BIOS update, released on July 11, 2011, aims to improve system compatibility, stability, and overall performance. While the original release dates back to 2011, understanding the purpose and process of updating the BIOS remains relevant for users who may still be utilizing this motherboard or encounter similar scenarios with other hardware.

Understanding the BIOS

The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) is a firmware embedded on a small chip on your motherboard. It’s the first software that runs when you power on your computer. The BIOS performs several essential functions:

Power-On Self-Test (POST): It checks all hardware components (CPU, memory, storage, etc.) to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Boot Sequence: It determines the order in which devices are searched for an operating system to load.
Hardware Configuration: It provides a basic interface to configure hardware settings, such as boot order, CPU settings, and memory timings.
Operating System Loading: It locates and loads the operating system from the designated boot device.

Updating the BIOS can resolve compatibility issues with new hardware, improve system stability, fix bugs, and sometimes even enhance performance. However, it’s crucial to approach BIOS updates with caution, as an interrupted or failed update can render your system unusable.

ASRock H67M-GE/HT Bios 1.60: What We Know

Given the age of this particular BIOS update, specific details about the changes included in version 1.60 are limited. Typically, BIOS updates address specific bugs or improve compatibility with newer hardware that might not have been available at the time of the motherboard’s initial release. Common improvements included:

Enhanced CPU Compatibility: Support for a wider range of Intel CPUs compatible with the H67 chipset.
Improved Memory Support: Better compatibility with different memory modules and configurations.
Bug Fixes: Resolution of known issues related to system stability, boot errors, or hardware conflicts.
Enhanced SATA Support: Improved performance or compatibility with SATA hard drives and SSDs.

Without specific release notes, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact changes included in the ASRock H67M-GE/HT Bios 1.60. However, users experiencing issues with CPU, memory, or storage compatibility on this motherboard might find that updating to this version resolves their problems.

Updating the ASRock H67M-GE/HT Bios

Important Notice: Updating the BIOS is a critical process. If interrupted, it can lead to irreversible damage to your motherboard, rendering your system unbootable. Ensure you have a stable power supply and follow the instructions carefully. DO NOT turn off your system during the update process. If you encounter problems, repeat the process. If the issue persists, consult the motherboard manual or contact ASRock support. If the Flash Memory Writer utility fails to update the BIOS completely, your system may require professional service.

The original document outlines a Windows-based update procedure, likely involving a utility provided by ASRock. While the exact steps may vary slightly depending on the specific utility, the general process is as follows:

Download the BIOS Update: Download the "H67M-GE(1.60)WIN.zip" file from a reputable source. Consider the official ASRock website or a trusted driver repository.

Download Link: You can attempt to download the driver from TechSpot.
Extract the Files: Extract the contents of the ZIP file to a convenient location on your hard drive.
Run the Update Utility: Locate and run the BIOS update utility within the extracted files (usually an executable file).
Follow On-Screen Instructions: The utility will guide you through the update process. Pay close attention to all instructions and prompts.
Restart Your System: Once the update is complete, the utility will typically prompt you to restart your computer.
Verify the Update: After restarting, enter the BIOS setup utility (usually by pressing Del, F2, or another key during startup) and verify that the BIOS version has been updated to 1.60.

Alternative Methods:

While the provided information focuses on a Windows-based update, other methods may be available, such as:

Instant Flash: ASRock motherboards often feature an "Instant Flash" utility in the BIOS itself. This allows you to update the BIOS directly from a USB drive without needing to boot into Windows.
DOS-Based Update: Some BIOS updates can be performed from a DOS environment using a bootable USB drive.

Consult your ASRock H67M-GE/HT motherboard manual for detailed instructions on these alternative methods.

Checking Your Current BIOS Version

Before updating, it’s essential to know your current BIOS version. This allows you to confirm whether the update is necessary and to revert to the previous version if needed. There are several ways to check your BIOS version:

During Startup: The BIOS version is often displayed briefly during the POST screen when you first turn on your computer.
System Information (Windows): In Windows, you can find the BIOS version in the System Information utility (search for "msinfo32" in the Start menu). Look for the "BIOS Version/Date" entry.
BIOS Setup Utility: Enter the BIOS setup utility (usually by pressing Del, F2, or another key during startup). The BIOS version is typically displayed on the main screen or in the system information section.

Risks and Precautions

As emphasized earlier, updating the BIOS carries inherent risks. A failed update can render your motherboard unusable. To minimize the risk of problems:

Ensure a Stable Power Supply: Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to protect against power outages during the update process.
Use the Correct BIOS File: Verify that the BIOS file you are using is specifically designed for your ASRock H67M-GE/HT motherboard.
Follow Instructions Carefully: Read and understand all instructions before starting the update process.
Do Not Interrupt the Update: Do not turn off your computer or restart it during the update process.
Backup Your Existing BIOS (If Possible): Some BIOS update utilities allow you to back up your existing BIOS before updating. This provides a safety net in case something goes wrong.

Alternative Download Links

While the TechSpot link provides one potential source, here are a few alternative locations to search for the ASRock H67M-GE/HT Bios 1.60. Note that file availability may vary:

ASRock Website: The official ASRock website is the most reliable source. Navigate to the support section for the H67M-GE/HT motherboard.
DriverGuide.com: A popular driver download site, but always scan downloaded files with an antivirus program.
Softpedia: Another well-known software and driver repository. Exercise caution and verify file integrity.
DriversCollection.com: This website hosts various drivers; search for the specific BIOS version.
MajorGeeks.com: A reputable source for software downloads, including drivers and BIOS updates.

Always prioritize downloading from the official ASRock website when possible. When using third-party sites, exercise caution and verify the file’s integrity using checksums (if provided) and a reputable antivirus program.

Conclusion

The ASRock H67M-GE/HT Bios 1.60 is an important update for users of this motherboard. While the update is quite old, understanding the BIOS update process and taking necessary precautions remains relevant. Remember to prioritize a stable power supply, use the correct BIOS file, and follow the instructions carefully to minimize the risk of problems. Always check your current ASRock H67M-GE/HT Bios version before attempting an update. Before updating the ASRock H67M-GE/HT Bios, ensure that you have a backup of your current ASRock H67M-GE/HT Bios, if possible.