The ASRock A790GXH/128M motherboard, a popular choice among PC enthusiasts during its time, relied on its BIOS to manage essential system functions. Updating the BIOS, or Basic Input/Output System, is a critical process that can improve system stability, enhance compatibility with newer hardware, and even unlock performance enhancements. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the ASRock A790GXH/128M Bios 1.70, its features, potential benefits, and how to obtain and install it.
Understanding the BIOS
The BIOS is firmware embedded on a small chip on the motherboard. It’s the first piece of software that runs when you power on your computer. Its primary functions include:
- Power-On Self-Test (POST): This diagnostic routine checks all essential hardware components, such as the CPU, memory, and storage devices, to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Boot Sequence: The BIOS determines the order in which the system attempts to boot from different storage devices (e.g., hard drive, SSD, USB drive).
- Hardware Configuration: The BIOS allows users to configure various hardware settings, such as CPU clock speeds, memory timings, and fan speeds.
- System Services: The BIOS provides low-level system services that the operating system can use to interact with hardware.
ASRock A790GXH/128M: A Look Back
The ASRock A790GXH/128M was a motherboard designed for AMD processors. It featured the AMD 790GX chipset, known for its integrated Radeon HD 3300 graphics. This made it a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers and users who didn’t require a dedicated graphics card. The "128M" in the name refers to the 128MB of SidePort memory, which acted as a dedicated buffer for the integrated graphics, improving performance.
ASRock A790GXH/128M Bios 1.70: Features and Potential Benefits
BIOS version 1.70 for the ASRock A790GXH/128M likely included several key improvements and fixes over previous versions. While official release notes are often scarce for older BIOS updates, common improvements in BIOS updates typically include:
- Improved CPU Compatibility: Updates to the BIOS often include support for newer CPU models. While the A790GXH/128M is an older platform, BIOS updates can sometimes extend its compatibility with later generations of AMD processors within the same socket type.
- Enhanced Memory Support: The update might have improved compatibility with different types of RAM modules, potentially allowing users to utilize higher-capacity or faster memory.
- Stability Improvements: BIOS updates often address bugs and stability issues that could lead to system crashes or unexpected behavior. Version 1.70 likely included fixes for various issues reported by users.
- Improved Hardware Support: Updates may have included improvements to the detection and support of various hardware components, such as hard drives, SSDs, and expansion cards.
- Tweaked Overclocking Options: For users interested in overclocking, the BIOS update might have included refined options for adjusting CPU and memory frequencies and voltages, allowing for more stable and effective overclocking.
Upgrading to ASRock A790GXH/128M Bios 1.70 could potentially lead to a more stable and reliable system. It’s also possible that the update addressed specific security vulnerabilities, making the system more secure.
Obtaining the ASRock A790GXH/128M Bios 1.70
Finding the correct BIOS update for your specific motherboard model is crucial. Installing the wrong BIOS can render your motherboard unusable.
Primary Download Location:
- TechSpot Drivers: https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/13940/
This link directs you to the TechSpot driver database, where you can download the ASRock A790GXH/128M Bios 1.70.
Alternative Download Locations:
Due to the age of this motherboard, finding the BIOS update on the official ASRock website might be difficult. However, here are some alternative sources where you might be able to find it:
- ASRock’s FTP Server: ASRock often maintains an FTP server with older BIOS files. Try searching for "ASRock FTP BIOS" to find the server address and then navigate to the A790GXH/128M directory.
- Third-Party Driver Websites: Websites like Softpedia or DriverGuide sometimes archive older drivers and BIOS files. However, exercise caution when downloading from these sources, as they may not always be reliable. Always scan downloaded files with a reputable antivirus program.
- Motherboard Review Websites: In some cases, motherboard review websites from the time the board was released might have links to the BIOS file.
- Hardware Forums: Online hardware forums like Tom’s Hardware or Overclock.net can be valuable resources. Users may have archived the BIOS file and be willing to share it.
- Archive.org (The Wayback Machine): Use archive.org to search for the ASRock product page for the A790GXH/128M. You might find archived versions of the page with download links to the BIOS.
Important Considerations Before Downloading:
- Verify the Model Number: Double-check that the BIOS file is specifically for the ASRock A790GXH/128M. Installing a BIOS intended for a different motherboard can cause irreversible damage.
- Check the File Integrity: After downloading the BIOS file, verify its integrity by comparing its MD5 or SHA checksum with the checksum provided on the download page (if available). This ensures that the file hasn’t been corrupted during the download process.
- Read the Instructions: Carefully read any instructions or documentation that accompanies the BIOS file. These instructions will outline the proper procedure for flashing the BIOS.
Flashing the BIOS: A Step-by-Step Guide
Flashing the BIOS is a potentially risky procedure. If done incorrectly, it can render your motherboard unusable. It’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully and take precautions to prevent interruptions during the flashing process.
Preparation:
- Backup Your Existing BIOS: If possible, use the BIOS flashing utility to create a backup of your current BIOS before proceeding. This will allow you to revert to the previous version if something goes wrong.
- Disable Antivirus Software: Disable any antivirus software running on your computer, as it can sometimes interfere with the BIOS flashing process.
- Ensure a Stable Power Supply: Make sure your computer is connected to a stable power supply. A power outage during the flashing process can corrupt the BIOS and damage the motherboard. A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is highly recommended.
- Close Unnecessary Programs: Close all unnecessary programs and applications to free up system resources and minimize the risk of interruptions.
Flashing Methods:
There are typically two main methods for flashing the BIOS:
- From Within the BIOS: Most modern motherboards include a built-in BIOS flashing utility. This is generally the safest and easiest method.
- Enter the BIOS setup utility by pressing the appropriate key during startup (usually Del, F2, or F12).
- Locate the BIOS flashing utility (it may be called "Instant Flash," "Q-Flash," or something similar).
- Select the BIOS file from your USB drive or hard drive.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to flash the BIOS.
- Using a DOS-Based Utility: Some older motherboards may require you to use a DOS-based flashing utility. This method involves creating a bootable USB drive with the flashing utility and the BIOS file.
- Download the DOS-based flashing utility from the motherboard manufacturer’s website.
- Create a bootable USB drive using a tool like Rufus.
- Copy the flashing utility and the BIOS file to the USB drive.
- Boot from the USB drive and follow the instructions in the flashing utility to flash the BIOS.
Important Steps During Flashing:
- Do Not Interrupt the Process: Once the flashing process has started, do not interrupt it under any circumstances. Do not turn off the computer, unplug the power cord, or press any keys.
- Monitor the Progress: Carefully monitor the progress of the flashing process. The utility should display a progress bar or percentage indicator.
- Wait for Completion: Wait for the flashing process to complete fully. The utility will typically display a message indicating that the process is complete and that you can reboot the computer.
After Flashing:
- Reboot the Computer: After the flashing process is complete, reboot the computer.
- Enter the BIOS Setup Utility: Enter the BIOS setup utility and load the default settings. This will ensure that the system is configured correctly after the BIOS update.
- Verify the BIOS Version: Verify that the BIOS version has been updated correctly. The BIOS version should be displayed on the main screen of the BIOS setup utility.
- Test System Stability: Test the system for stability by running various applications and games. Monitor the system for any errors or unexpected behavior.
Conclusion
Updating to ASRock A790GXH/128M Bios 1.70 can bring several benefits, including improved compatibility, enhanced stability, and potentially even performance enhancements. However, it’s crucial to proceed with caution and follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your motherboard. Always verify the BIOS file before flashing, ensure a stable power supply, and never interrupt the flashing process. By taking these precautions, you can safely update your BIOS and ensure that your ASRock A790GXH/128M motherboard continues to function optimally. Remember to always download the ASRock A790GXH/128M Bios 1.70 from a trusted source like TechSpot or the alternative locations mentioned above. Good luck!