This article provides information regarding the ASRock P45XE-R Bios update version 1.40 for Windows operating systems. This update includes specific improvements and is intended for users of the ASRock P45XE-R motherboard. It’s crucial to understand the potential risks and benefits associated with BIOS updates before proceeding. A BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) update modifies the firmware responsible for initializing hardware components during system startup. Improperly flashing the BIOS can lead to system instability or even render the system unusable. Therefore, carefully follow the instructions provided and ensure you have a stable power supply throughout the entire process.
Understanding BIOS Updates
The BIOS is a fundamental piece of software embedded on a chip on your motherboard. It acts as an intermediary between the operating system and the hardware, performing critical tasks such as:
- Power-On Self-Test (POST): Diagnosing hardware components during startup.
- Boot Sequence: Loading the operating system from the designated boot device.
- Hardware Configuration: Providing basic settings for hardware devices like hard drives, memory, and peripherals.
BIOS updates are released by motherboard manufacturers to address bugs, improve hardware compatibility, enhance performance, and introduce new features. However, they should only be applied when necessary, as an interrupted or failed update can render the motherboard unusable.
Benefits of ASRock P45XE-R Bios 1.40
This particular update, ASRock P45XE-R Bios 1.40, offers the following enhancements:
- Improved Hard Drive Recognition: Resolves issues related to the proper detection and display of information for HITACHI 1TB hard disk drives. This ensures the system correctly identifies the drive’s capacity and other parameters, leading to more reliable operation.
- Enhanced Memory Compatibility: Implements patches specifically for KINGSTON DDR2-800 2G memory modules. This improves compatibility and stability when using these specific memory modules with the ASRock P45XE-R motherboard. This can resolve issues like system crashes, memory errors, or failure to recognize the full memory capacity.
Important Considerations Before Updating
Before proceeding with the BIOS update, consider the following:
- Identify Your Motherboard: Ensure you have an ASRock P45XE-R motherboard. Applying the wrong BIOS version can severely damage your system. Verify the model number printed on the motherboard itself or use system information tools.
- Backup Your Current BIOS: Although not always feasible with every flashing utility, if possible, back up your current BIOS. This allows you to revert to the previous version if the update fails or causes unforeseen issues.
- Stable Power Supply: Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) or ensure a stable power source. A power outage during the flashing process can corrupt the BIOS and render your system unusable.
- Close All Applications: Close all running applications before initiating the update. This prevents conflicts and ensures the flashing process runs smoothly.
- Read the Instructions Carefully: Thoroughly read and understand the instructions provided by ASRock. Follow each step precisely to minimize the risk of errors.
- Assess the Risk: Consider whether the benefits of the update outweigh the potential risks. If your system is running smoothly and you are not experiencing any issues related to hard drive recognition or memory compatibility, the update may not be necessary.
Updating BIOS under Windows Vista
The following instructions detail how to update the ASRock P45XE-R Bios under Windows Vista.
<div id="pub-desc">
<p><b>Updating BIOS under Windows Vista</b></p><p>
Step1: Please right click AFUWIN.exe<br>
Step2: Click "Run as administrator".</p><p><b>Notice</b><br>
If you encounter problems while updating the new BIOS, DO NOT turn off your system since this corrupt BIOS might cause your system failed to boot up. Just repeat the process, and if the problem still persists, update the original BIOS file. If the Flash Memory Writer utility was not able to successfully update a complete BIOS file, your system may not be able to boot up. If this happens, your system will need service.</p><p><b id="whatsnew">What's New:</b></p><p>
1. Shows the information for HITACHI 1TB HDD.<br>
2. Patches KINGSTON DDR2-800 2G memory module. </p></div>Detailed Explanation of the Steps:
- Locate AFUWIN.exe: The AFUWIN.exe file is the flashing utility required to update the BIOS. This file is typically included in the downloaded BIOS update package from ASRock.
- Right-Click and "Run as administrator": Right-click on the AFUWIN.exe file and select "Run as administrator" from the context menu. This is crucial because the flashing utility requires elevated privileges to access and modify the system’s BIOS. Failure to run as administrator may result in the update failing.
Important Notice:
<div id="pub-desc">
<p><b>Updating BIOS under Windows Vista</b></p><p>
Step1: Please right click AFUWIN.exe<br>
Step2: Click "Run as administrator".</p><p><b>Notice</b><br>
If you encounter problems while updating the new BIOS, DO NOT turn off your system since this corrupt BIOS might cause your system failed to boot up. Just repeat the process, and if the problem still persists, update the original BIOS file. If the Flash Memory Writer utility was not able to successfully update a complete BIOS file, your system may not be able to boot up. If this happens, your system will need service.</p><p><b id="whatsnew">What's New:</b></p><p>
1. Shows the information for HITACHI 1TB HDD.<br>
2. Patches KINGSTON DDR2-800 2G memory module. </p></div>Explanation of the Notice:
- Do Not Interrupt the Process: If you encounter problems during the BIOS update process, DO NOT turn off your computer. Doing so can corrupt the BIOS and prevent your system from booting.
- Repeat the Process: If the update fails, try repeating the process. Ensure you are following all the steps correctly and that the power supply is stable.
- Revert to Original BIOS: If the problem persists, attempt to update using the original BIOS file (if you backed it up). This can sometimes recover the system from a failed update.
- Service Required: If the Flash Memory Writer utility fails to successfully update the complete BIOS file, your system may not be able to boot. In this case, the system will likely require professional service to re-flash the BIOS chip.
Downloading the ASRock P45XE-R Bios 1.40
You can download the ASRock P45XE-R Bios 1.40 from the following link:
https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/11348/
Alternative Download Links:
Due to the age of this BIOS update, finding direct download links can be challenging. Here are some alternative resources where you might find the ASRock P45XE-R Bios 1.40 or related files. Please exercise caution when downloading from unofficial sources and always scan downloaded files with an antivirus program before execution.
- DriverGuide.com: (Search for ASRock P45XE-R BIOS) – Often hosts archived drivers and BIOS files.
- Softpedia: (Search for ASRock P45XE-R BIOS) – Another repository that sometimes archives older drivers.
- DriversCollection.com: (Search for ASRock P45XE-R BIOS) – Similar to the previous two, offering a wide range of drivers.
- WinDrivers.com: (Search for ASRock P45XE-R BIOS) – A database of Windows drivers that may contain the BIOS file.
- ASRock’s FTP Server (if available): While ASRock might not directly host it on their main website, their FTP server might contain older BIOS versions. You’ll need to search for it specifically.
Conclusion
Updating the BIOS is a critical procedure that requires caution and careful attention to detail. This article provided information regarding the ASRock P45XE-R Bios 1.40 for Windows, including its benefits, potential risks, and the update process. By understanding the information presented here and following the instructions provided by ASRock, you can increase the likelihood of a successful BIOS update and improve the performance and stability of your system. Always remember to proceed with caution and seek professional help if you are unsure about any step in the process. Good luck with updating your ASRock P45XE-R Bios.