The AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 motherboard, a product from the mid-2000s, catered to enthusiasts seeking a versatile platform for AMD’s Socket 939 processors. While now considered a legacy component, understanding its BIOS, specifically version 1.30, remains relevant for users maintaining or troubleshooting systems based on this hardware. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 BIOS 1.30, its features, potential updates, and resources for obtaining the necessary files.
Understanding the AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 Motherboard
Before delving into the specifics of BIOS 1.30, it’s crucial to understand the context of the AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 motherboard. This board was designed to support AMD Athlon 64 and Athlon 64 X2 processors, offering a then-modern feature set that included:
- Socket 939: The physical interface for compatible AMD processors.
- NVIDIA SLI Support: Allowing for the use of two NVIDIA graphics cards in a Scalable Link Interface (SLI) configuration for enhanced graphics performance.
- eSATA2 Connectivity: Providing external Serial ATA (eSATA) ports for high-speed data transfer with external storage devices.
- Dual-Channel DDR Memory Support: Enabling the use of two memory modules for increased memory bandwidth.
- PCI Express x16 Slot: A dedicated slot for a primary graphics card.
- PCI Slots: Providing expansion slots for various add-in cards.
The AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 was often favored for its balance of features and affordability, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers and PC builders.
The Role of the BIOS
The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) is a firmware embedded on a motherboard that initializes the hardware components during the boot process and provides low-level control over the system. It acts as an intermediary between the operating system and the hardware, enabling them to communicate effectively. The BIOS performs several essential functions, including:
- Power-On Self-Test (POST): A diagnostic routine that checks the system’s hardware components for errors.
- Boot Device Selection: Allowing the user to choose the boot device (e.g., hard drive, SSD, optical drive) from which the operating system will load.
- Hardware Configuration: Providing options to configure various hardware settings, such as CPU clock speeds, memory timings, and fan speeds.
- System Information: Displaying information about the installed hardware, such as CPU type, memory size, and BIOS version.
AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 BIOS 1.30: Features and Improvements
BIOS 1.30 for the AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 likely included updates and improvements over previous versions. While specific release notes are often difficult to locate for older BIOS versions, typical BIOS updates generally address the following:
- CPU Compatibility: Enhanced support for newer or previously unsupported CPU models.
- Memory Compatibility: Improved compatibility with different memory modules, potentially resolving stability issues or enabling better performance.
- Bug Fixes: Addressing known bugs or errors in the previous BIOS version, leading to improved system stability.
- Performance Enhancements: Optimizations to improve overall system performance.
- Hardware Support: Enabling or improving support for specific hardware components.
Without access to the original release notes, it’s impossible to definitively state all the changes included in BIOS 1.30. However, users who upgraded to this version likely experienced improved stability and compatibility compared to older BIOS versions.
Obtaining the AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 BIOS 1.30
Finding the BIOS 1.30 file for the AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 can be challenging due to the age of the motherboard. The primary and recommended source is:
This link should provide access to the BIOS file for download. However, given the age of the file, it’s prudent to have alternative sources in case the primary link is no longer active. Here are five alternative download links:
- Softpedia: (Please note: Softpedia is a reputable site, but always verify the file integrity.) [Search Softpedia for "AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 BIOS 1.30"] – Finding direct links for older BIOS versions on Softpedia requires a specific search.
- DriverGuide: (DriverGuide often hosts older drivers and BIOS files.) [Search DriverGuide for "AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 BIOS 1.30"] – Requires a search on their site.
- Archive.org (Wayback Machine): Try searching for the AsRock product page for the 939SLI32-eSATA2 on archive.org. The original download link might be archived there.
- BIOSAgentPlus: (This site offers BIOS updates and often has older versions.) https://www.biosagentplus.com/ – (Note: Using this site might require a scan and potential purchase for the BIOS update, proceed with caution and only if you are comfortable with the process). Search for the specific motherboard model.
- Motherboard Driver Sites: Several websites specialize in archiving motherboard drivers and BIOS files. Search for "AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 BIOS 1.30 download" on a search engine to find these sites. Always exercise caution when downloading from unknown sources.
Important Considerations Before Downloading:
- Verify the File: Ensure that the downloaded file is indeed the BIOS 1.30 for the AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 motherboard. Check the file size and any available checksums to confirm its authenticity.
- Read the Instructions: Carefully read the instructions provided by AsRock or the download source for flashing the BIOS. Incorrectly flashing the BIOS can render the motherboard unusable.
- Backup Your Current BIOS: If possible, back up your current BIOS before flashing the new one. This allows you to revert to the previous version if something goes wrong.
Flashing the BIOS
Flashing the BIOS is a critical process that requires caution and attention to detail. Incorrectly flashing the BIOS can brick the motherboard, rendering it unusable. Here’s a general overview of the BIOS flashing process:
- Prepare a Bootable USB Drive: Create a bootable USB drive using a tool like Rufus or similar software.
- Copy the BIOS File: Copy the downloaded BIOS file to the bootable USB drive.
- Boot from the USB Drive: Configure the BIOS to boot from the USB drive. This usually involves accessing the BIOS setup utility by pressing a specific key (e.g., Delete, F2, F12) during startup.
- Run the Flashing Utility: Once booted from the USB drive, run the BIOS flashing utility. This utility is typically included with the BIOS file or can be downloaded from the motherboard manufacturer’s website.
- Follow the Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided by the flashing utility. Do not interrupt the process or turn off the power.
- Reboot the System: After the flashing process is complete, reboot the system. The new BIOS should now be installed.
Warning:
- Never interrupt the BIOS flashing process.
- Ensure a stable power supply during the flashing process.
- Double-check that you are flashing the correct BIOS file for your motherboard.
Troubleshooting BIOS Issues
If you encounter issues after flashing the BIOS, such as the system not booting or experiencing instability, try the following:
- Clear the CMOS: Clearing the CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) memory resets the BIOS settings to their default values. This can often resolve issues caused by incorrect BIOS configurations. Refer to your motherboard manual for instructions on how to clear the CMOS. This usually involves shorting two pins on the motherboard or removing the CMOS battery for a short period.
- Revert to the Previous BIOS: If you backed up your previous BIOS, revert to that version.
- Seek Professional Help: If you are unable to resolve the issue yourself, seek professional help from a qualified computer technician.
Conclusion
The AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 BIOS 1.30 represents a crucial piece of firmware for a legacy motherboard. While finding and flashing this BIOS version can be challenging, understanding the process and taking the necessary precautions can help users maintain and troubleshoot systems based on this hardware. By following the guidelines and warnings outlined in this article, users can increase their chances of successfully updating their BIOS and maximizing the performance and stability of their AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 motherboard. The AsRock 939SLI32-eSATA2 was a solid performer in its day, and a properly updated BIOS can help keep it running smoothly.