ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 Bios 2.20 for DOS

This article provides information regarding the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 motherboard and its BIOS update version 2.20 for DOS. It aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the BIOS, its purpose, the flashing process, and essential considerations for users who might need to update or reinstall the BIOS on this specific motherboard. The ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 motherboard, while an older model, can still be found in use, and understanding how to manage its BIOS is crucial for maintaining system stability and compatibility.

Understanding the BIOS

BIOS, which stands for Basic Input/Output System, is a fundamental piece of software embedded on a motherboard. It’s the first software that runs when a computer is powered on, responsible for initializing hardware components, performing self-tests (POST – Power-On Self-Test), and loading the operating system. The BIOS acts as an interface between the operating system and the hardware.

The BIOS contains crucial settings for configuring hardware, such as CPU clock speeds, memory timings, boot order, and SATA controller modes. Updates to the BIOS, like version 2.20 for the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2, often include bug fixes, improved hardware compatibility, and sometimes, performance enhancements.

The ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 Motherboard

The ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 was a popular motherboard designed to support AMD Socket 939 processors. It was known for its flexibility and features, including support for both DDR and DDR2 memory (though not simultaneously), and the inclusion of SATA2 ports, which were relatively new at the time. This dual-memory capability allowed users to upgrade their systems without necessarily replacing their existing memory modules immediately.

Given its age, finding updated drivers and BIOS versions can be challenging. However, maintaining an up-to-date BIOS is still important for optimal performance and compatibility with newer hardware or software.

BIOS Version 2.20: What to Expect

Specific details about the changes included in BIOS version 2.20 for the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 are often found in the release notes accompanying the BIOS file. These notes typically outline the improvements and bug fixes introduced in the update. Common BIOS update benefits may include:

• Improved CPU Compatibility: Support for newer AMD Socket 939 processors that were released after the initial BIOS version.
• Enhanced Memory Support: Improved compatibility with different memory modules and potentially optimized memory timings.
• SATA Controller Enhancements: Bug fixes or performance improvements related to the SATA2 controllers.
• Bug Fixes: Resolution of any known issues or errors present in previous BIOS versions.
• Stability Improvements: Overall system stability enhancements.

Without the original release notes, it’s difficult to provide a definitive list of changes. However, these are common improvements found in BIOS updates.

Flashing the BIOS: A DOS-Based Approach

The BIOS update process described here involves using a DOS environment. This was a common method for flashing BIOS on older motherboards. The process generally involves the following steps:

1. Download the BIOS File: Download the BIOS version 2.20 file specifically designed for the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 motherboard.

2. Prepare a Bootable DOS USB Drive: Create a bootable USB drive with a DOS environment. Several tools are available online for creating bootable DOS drives. One popular option is Rufus.

3. Copy the BIOS File and Flashing Utility: Copy the downloaded BIOS file and the BIOS flashing utility (usually included in the BIOS download package) to the bootable USB drive.

4. Boot from the USB Drive: Restart your computer and configure the BIOS to boot from the USB drive. This is usually done by pressing a specific key (e.g., Delete, F2, F12) during startup to enter the BIOS setup.

5. Run the Flashing Utility: Once booted into DOS, navigate to the USB drive and run the BIOS flashing utility. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully. This usually involves typing a command that specifies the BIOS file to be flashed.

6. Wait for the Process to Complete: The flashing process will take a few minutes. Do not interrupt the process. Interrupting the process can corrupt the BIOS and render the motherboard unusable.

7. Restart the Computer: Once the flashing process is complete, restart the computer. The new BIOS should now be installed.

Important Considerations and Warnings

• Verify the BIOS File: Ensure that the BIOS file you download is specifically designed for the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 motherboard. Using the wrong BIOS file can damage the motherboard.
• Power Stability: Ensure a stable power supply during the flashing process. A power outage during the process can corrupt the BIOS. Consider using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) if you are concerned about power outages.
• Read the Instructions Carefully: Read and understand all instructions provided with the BIOS file and flashing utility before starting the process.
• Backup Existing BIOS (If Possible): Some flashing utilities allow you to back up the existing BIOS before flashing. This can be helpful if you need to revert to the previous BIOS version.
• Risk of Damage: Flashing the BIOS is a potentially risky procedure. If done incorrectly, it can render the motherboard unusable. Proceed with caution and only if you are comfortable with the process.

Downloading the BIOS File

The primary download location for the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 BIOS version 2.20 is:

https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/7749/

This link leads to the TechSpot drivers page, which should provide the necessary file and potentially some information about the update.

Alternative Download Links

Due to the age of the motherboard, the original download link might become unavailable over time. Here are five alternative download links for the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 BIOS version 2.20 from other sources. Please note: Always exercise caution when downloading files from unfamiliar sources. Verify the file integrity by checking the MD5 or SHA checksum (if available) and scan the file with an antivirus program before using it.

1. ASRock Website (Official, if available): Check the official ASRock website for archived downloads. Search for the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 motherboard model and look for the BIOS section.

2. DriverGuide.com: DriverGuide often archives older drivers and BIOS files. Search for the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 on their site.

3. Softpedia: Softpedia is a reputable software download site that may have the BIOS file available.

4. WinDrivers.com: WinDrivers is another website that archives older drivers and BIOS files.

5. Archive.org (Wayback Machine): Use the Wayback Machine to search for the original ASRock product page for the 939Dual-SATA2. If the page was archived, you might be able to find the BIOS download link.

Conclusion

Updating the BIOS on an older motherboard like the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 can be a valuable step for maintaining system stability and compatibility. However, it’s essential to understand the risks involved and proceed with caution. By following the steps outlined in this article and taking the necessary precautions, you can successfully update the BIOS and potentially improve the performance and longevity of your system. Remember to always verify the BIOS file, ensure a stable power supply, and read the instructions carefully before proceeding with the flashing process.