ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 Bios 1.60 for DOS

This article provides information about the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 motherboard BIOS update version 1.60, designed for DOS-based flashing. It aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the BIOS, its purpose, the updating process, and potential benefits and risks associated with flashing a BIOS in a DOS environment. This information is intended for users familiar with hardware and software modifications, and who understand the potential consequences of BIOS flashing.

Understanding the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 Motherboard

The ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 was a popular motherboard released in the mid-2000s, designed to support AMD Athlon 64 processors utilizing the Socket 939. A key feature of this board was its dual-graphics card support, offering a degree of future-proofing and enhanced graphics capabilities for its time. It also boasted SATA2 support, allowing for faster data transfer rates compared to the older SATA standard. The motherboard’s versatility made it a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers and PC enthusiasts.

What is a BIOS and Why Update It?

BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System. It’s a crucial piece of firmware embedded on a motherboard that initializes hardware components during the boot process. It acts as an intermediary between the operating system and the hardware, allowing them to communicate effectively. The BIOS performs several essential tasks, including:

• Power-On Self-Test (POST): Verifies the functionality of essential hardware components like the CPU, RAM, and graphics card.
• Boot Sequence: Determines the order in which storage devices are searched for an operating system to load.
• Hardware Configuration: Allows users to configure various hardware settings, such as CPU clock speeds, memory timings, and boot device priority.
• System Services: Provides low-level services for the operating system to interact with hardware.

Updating the BIOS, often referred to as "flashing" the BIOS, is the process of replacing the existing BIOS firmware with a newer version. Manufacturers release BIOS updates to address various issues, including:

• Improved Hardware Compatibility: Support for newer CPUs, memory modules, or other hardware components.
• Bug Fixes: Resolution of errors or glitches in the existing BIOS code.
• Performance Enhancements: Optimization of system performance and stability.
• Security Updates: Patches for vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious software.

However, flashing a BIOS is not without risk. A failed BIOS update can render the motherboard unusable, requiring specialized equipment to recover. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the process thoroughly and proceed with caution.

ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 Bios 1.60: Specific Improvements and Fixes

While specific release notes for ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 Bios 1.60 are unavailable, BIOS updates generally address the kinds of issues listed above. It’s likely that version 1.60 provided enhanced compatibility with newer hardware available at the time of its release, addressed stability issues reported by users, or implemented performance optimizations. To understand the specific changes included in the update, consult the official ASRock website or related online forums, which may contain user reports or discussions about the update.

Obtaining the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 Bios 1.60

The primary source for downloading the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 Bios 1.60 is:

• TechSpot: https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/7049/

In the event that the primary link is unavailable, here are some alternative download locations:

1. Softpedia: (Check Softpedia for archived versions of the BIOS)
2. DriverGuide: (DriverGuide may have a copy in their archive)
3. WinDrivers: (Check WinDrivers for archived versions of the BIOS)
4. Motherboard.cz: (Often has BIOS files for older motherboards)
5. BIOSAgentPlus: (While not a direct download, it can help identify and locate compatible BIOS updates)

Important: When downloading from alternative sources, exercise extreme caution to ensure the file is legitimate and free from malware. Always scan downloaded files with a reputable antivirus program before executing them.

Preparing for the BIOS Update

Before flashing the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 Bios 1.60, several preparatory steps are crucial:

1. Identify Your Motherboard Revision: Ensure you have the correct BIOS version for your specific motherboard revision. Installing the wrong BIOS can cause serious problems.
2. Download the Correct BIOS File: Download the BIOS update file from a trusted source. Verify the file’s integrity by comparing its checksum (MD5 or SHA1 hash) with the value provided on the download page, if available.
3. Create a Bootable DOS Drive: The ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 BIOS update is designed to be flashed from DOS. This requires creating a bootable DOS drive, typically a USB flash drive. You can use tools like Rufus or the HP USB Disk Storage Format Tool to create a bootable DOS drive.
4. Copy the BIOS File to the Bootable Drive: Copy the BIOS update file and any necessary flashing utilities (such as AWDFLASH, which was commonly used for Award BIOS, often found on ASRock boards) to the bootable DOS drive.
5. Backup Your Existing BIOS (If Possible): Some BIOS flashing utilities allow you to create a backup of your existing BIOS before flashing the new version. This backup can be invaluable if the update fails.
6. Disable Unnecessary Devices: Disconnect any unnecessary peripherals, such as external hard drives or printers, to minimize the risk of conflicts during the flashing process.
7. Ensure a Stable Power Supply: A stable power supply is critical during the BIOS update. Interruptions in power can corrupt the BIOS and render the motherboard unusable. Consider using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to protect against power outages.

Flashing the BIOS in DOS

Warning: This process involves risks and should only be performed by experienced users. Incorrectly flashing the BIOS can damage your motherboard.

1. Boot from the DOS Drive: Restart your computer and boot from the bootable DOS drive you created. You may need to adjust the boot order in the existing BIOS settings to prioritize the USB drive.
2. Navigate to the BIOS File: Once booted into DOS, navigate to the directory containing the BIOS update file and the flashing utility using DOS commands (e.g., CD, DIR).
3. Run the Flashing Utility: Execute the flashing utility with the appropriate command-line parameters. This typically involves specifying the name of the BIOS file to flash. For example, if using AWDFLASH, the command might be: AWDFLASH BIOS_FILE.BIN /PY /SN /CC.
   • /PY: Program the Flash ROM.
   • /SN: No Serial Number.
   • /CC: Clear CMOS after programming.
     Note: The specific command-line parameters may vary depending on the flashing utility used. Consult the utility’s documentation for details.
4. Wait for the Flashing Process to Complete: The flashing process can take several minutes. Do not interrupt the process or turn off the power. The utility will typically display a progress bar or messages indicating the status of the update.
5. Verify the Update: After the flashing process is complete, the utility may prompt you to restart your computer. Allow the system to restart and enter the BIOS setup utility to verify that the new BIOS version is installed.
6. Load Default Settings: After flashing the BIOS, it’s recommended to load the default settings in the BIOS setup utility. This ensures that the system is configured correctly for the new BIOS version.
7. Reconfigure Settings: After loading the default settings, you can reconfigure any custom settings, such as CPU clock speeds or memory timings.

Troubleshooting BIOS Flashing Issues

If the BIOS flashing process fails, the motherboard may become unusable. Here are some common troubleshooting steps:

• Check the Power Supply: Ensure that the power supply is stable and providing sufficient power.
• Verify the BIOS File: Double-check that you have downloaded the correct BIOS file for your motherboard revision.
• Try a Different Flashing Utility: If one flashing utility fails, try using a different one.
• CMOS Reset: Clear the CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) memory by removing the CMOS battery for a few minutes and then reinserting it. This can reset the BIOS to its default settings.
• Seek Professional Help: If you are unable to recover the motherboard yourself, consider seeking professional help from a computer repair technician. Some technicians have specialized equipment for recovering from failed BIOS flashes.

Conclusion

Updating the ASRock 939Dual-SATA2 Bios 1.60 can provide benefits such as improved hardware compatibility, bug fixes, and performance enhancements. However, it’s a process that carries inherent risks. By understanding the process thoroughly, taking necessary precautions, and following the instructions carefully, you can minimize the risk of encountering problems. If you are not comfortable with the process, it’s best to seek professional assistance. Remember to always back up your existing BIOS if possible and ensure a stable power supply during the update.