This document provides information regarding the JetWay NF93-LF motherboard BIOS update, version A02. Updating the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a critical process that can improve system stability, enhance compatibility, and fix existing issues. This article outlines the changes included in this specific update, the recommended procedures for flashing the BIOS, and important precautions to take to ensure a successful update.
The JetWay NF93-LF motherboard is a legacy product, and BIOS updates like this are typically released to address specific problems encountered by users. Understanding the purpose of the update and following the instructions carefully is crucial to avoid potential system instability or damage.
Purpose of the Update: Resolving CMOS and Boot Screen Issues
According to the release notes, the primary purpose of the JetWay NF93-LF BIOS A02 update is to resolve issues related to clearing the CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) and subsequent boot screen errors. The CMOS is a small memory chip on the motherboard that stores system settings, such as boot order, date, and time. Clearing the CMOS resets these settings to their default values, which can be useful for troubleshooting system problems.
The update addresses a specific problem where clearing the CMOS on the JetWay NF93-LF motherboard could result in a "messed up" boot screen. This could manifest as distorted images, incorrect text, or other visual anomalies during the boot process. By updating to BIOS A02, users experiencing this issue should find that their boot screen returns to normal after clearing the CMOS.
Important Notices and Upgrade Procedure
Before proceeding with the BIOS update, it is imperative to carefully review and understand the following notices and instructions. Failure to do so could result in a non-functional system.
Notice:
(1.) After you flash the BIOS, to load Optimized Defaults or clear CMOS is a MUST to ensure the system works properly.
(2.) BIOS Upgrade Step: Flash BIOS –> Enter into BIOS –> Load Optimized Defaults –> Save and Exit
(3.) Please make sure that you are using the AWARD Flash Utility Ver. 8.83 before upgrading your BIOS.
(4.) Some motherboards incorporate SPI BIOS may cause the system crash by updating with the former version of AWARD Flash Utility!
(5.) when using AWDFLASH(we recommend version newer than V8.83)to renew the BIOS of this version"/cd/cp/ch/wb/qi"parameters are required.
(6.) Please let the folowing motherboard series use the updated tool Award Flash 8.27B.
(P4XFA P4XFB P4XFBU P4XFCP P4XFCU P4XFM P4XFMP P4XFMU V6DP V6DU V6FP V6FU)
What’s New:
Solve some mainboard clean cmos ,boot screen will mess.
Explanation of Notices:
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Post-Flash Configuration: After successfully flashing the BIOS, it is essential to either load "Optimized Defaults" in the BIOS setup or clear the CMOS. This ensures that the new BIOS settings are properly applied and the system operates correctly. Loading Optimized Defaults typically sets the system to stable and recommended configurations.
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Step-by-Step Upgrade: The recommended BIOS upgrade procedure is as follows:
- Flash BIOS: Run the AWARD Flash Utility to update the BIOS with the A02 version.
- Enter BIOS: Restart the computer and enter the BIOS setup utility (usually by pressing DEL, F2, or another key during startup – consult your motherboard manual).
- Load Optimized Defaults: Within the BIOS setup, locate the option to load "Optimized Defaults" (or similar wording) and select it.
- Save and Exit: Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup. The system will restart.
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AWARD Flash Utility Version: Using the correct version of the AWARD Flash Utility is critical. The documentation specifies using version 8.83 or newer. Using an older version may lead to flashing errors or system instability.
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SPI BIOS Warning: Some motherboards utilize SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) BIOS chips. Updating these boards with older versions of the AWARD Flash Utility can cause system crashes. Ensure you are using the recommended version to avoid this risk.
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AWDFLASH Parameters: When using AWDFLASH (version newer than V8.83) to flash the BIOS, specific parameters are required: "/cd/cp/ch/wb/qi". These parameters are crucial for ensuring a successful and correct flash.
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Specific Motherboard Series: For the following motherboard series: (P4XFA P4XFB P4XFBU P4XFCP P4XFCU P4XFM P4XFMP P4XFMU V6DP V6DU V6FP V6FU), it is mandatory to use the updated tool Award Flash 8.27B.
Obtaining the BIOS and Flash Utility
The BIOS update and the appropriate AWARD Flash Utility can be downloaded from the following link:
https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/11854/
Alternative Download Links:
Given the age of the JetWay NF93-LF motherboard, finding official download links can be challenging. Here are some alternative sources to explore, but exercise caution when downloading from unofficial websites and always scan downloaded files for viruses:
- DriverGuide.com: DriverGuide can often host older drivers and BIOS files. Search for "JetWay NF93-LF BIOS" on their site.
- Softpedia.com: Softpedia is another reputable source for drivers and software. Search for the specific BIOS version (A02) to narrow down your results.
- Archive.org (Wayback Machine): If you know the original JetWay website address, you can use the Wayback Machine to see if archived versions of the site contain the BIOS file.
- DriverIdentifier.com: This site can identify your hardware and suggest drivers. It might have a link to the JetWay NF93-LF BIOS.
- Third-Party Driver Sites (Caution Advised): Numerous websites offer driver downloads. However, proceed with extreme caution, as some may bundle malware or offer outdated/incorrect files. Verify the file size and source carefully before downloading.
Disclaimer: We are not responsible for any issues arising from downloading files from third-party websites. Always scan downloaded files with an up-to-date antivirus program.
Flashing the BIOS: A Detailed Guide
Flashing the BIOS is a delicate process. The following steps provide a general guide, but always consult your motherboard manual for specific instructions:
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Preparation:
- Backup: Back up your important data before starting the BIOS update. A failed update could potentially corrupt your system.
- Download: Download the BIOS A02 file and the AWARD Flash Utility (version 8.83 or newer) from a reliable source.
- Extract: Extract the downloaded files to a folder on your hard drive or a bootable USB drive.
- Disable Antivirus: Temporarily disable your antivirus software, as it may interfere with the flashing process.
- Power Stability: Ensure a stable power supply. A power outage during the BIOS update can brick your motherboard. Consider using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) if power outages are common in your area.
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Creating a Bootable USB Drive (If Required):
- Some flashing utilities require a bootable DOS environment. You can create a bootable USB drive using tools like Rufus or the HP USB Disk Storage Format Tool.
- Copy the BIOS file and the AWARD Flash Utility to the bootable USB drive.
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Booting into DOS:
- Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup utility (usually by pressing DEL, F2, or another key during startup).
- Configure the BIOS to boot from the USB drive.
- Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup. The system will restart and boot into DOS from the USB drive.
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Flashing the BIOS:
- At the DOS prompt, navigate to the directory containing the BIOS file and the AWARD Flash Utility.
- Run the AWARD Flash Utility with the appropriate parameters. The original document specifies using the "/cd/cp/ch/wb/qi" parameters. The command would look something like this:
AWDFLASH [BIOS FILENAME] /cd/cp/ch/wb/qi(replace[BIOS FILENAME]with the actual name of the BIOS file). - Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
- Do not interrupt the flashing process!
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Verification and Completion:
- After the flashing process is complete, the utility will usually prompt you to restart the computer.
- Remove the bootable USB drive.
- Restart the computer.
- Enter the BIOS setup utility again.
- Load Optimized Defaults.
- Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup.
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Post-Update Testing:
- After the system restarts, test its functionality to ensure that everything is working correctly.
- Specifically, test the features that were addressed by the BIOS update (in this case, clearing the CMOS and the boot screen display).
Troubleshooting
If the BIOS update fails, your system may become unbootable. Here are some potential troubleshooting steps:
- Refer to Motherboard Manual: Consult your motherboard manual for specific troubleshooting instructions related to BIOS recovery.
- BIOS Recovery Features: Some motherboards have built-in BIOS recovery features that allow you to restore a previous BIOS version from a backup file.
- Professional Help: If you are unable to recover the BIOS yourself, consider seeking professional help from a computer repair technician.
Conclusion
Updating the BIOS on your JetWay NF93-LF motherboard to version A02 can resolve specific issues related to clearing the CMOS and boot screen display. However, it is crucial to follow the instructions carefully and take all necessary precautions to avoid potential problems. By using the correct tools, following the recommended procedure, and understanding the risks involved, you can successfully update your BIOS and improve the stability and functionality of your system. Always remember to consult your motherboard manual for detailed instructions specific to your hardware.