This article provides information regarding the ASRock 970 Extreme4 motherboard and its BIOS version 2.20. It aims to give users an overview of the BIOS, its features, how to update it, and crucial precautions to take during the update process. This information is based on the release as of October 19, 2012.
Overview of the ASRock 970 Extreme4 Bios 2.20
The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a crucial piece of firmware embedded on a motherboard. It’s the first software that runs when you power on your computer, and it performs several essential tasks, including:
- Hardware Initialization: The BIOS tests and initializes all the hardware components connected to the motherboard, such as the CPU, memory, graphics card, storage devices, and peripherals.
- Boot Process: It locates and loads the operating system from a storage device (e.g., hard drive, SSD) into the system’s memory, allowing the computer to start up.
- System Settings: The BIOS provides a user interface (often accessed by pressing a key like Delete, F2, or F12 during startup) where you can configure various system settings, such as boot order, CPU clock speeds, memory timings, and fan control.
- Low-Level Hardware Control: The BIOS provides basic input/output functions that the operating system can use to interact with hardware devices.
BIOS updates are released by motherboard manufacturers to improve system stability, enhance hardware compatibility, fix bugs, and sometimes even add new features. Updating your BIOS is generally recommended, but it’s crucial to do it correctly to avoid potential problems. The ASRock 970 Extreme4 Bios 2.20 update aims to improve the user experience.
What’s New in ASRock 970 Extreme4 Bios 2.20
Unfortunately, the provided source material doesn’t detail specific improvements or bug fixes included in the ASRock 970 Extreme4 Bios 2.20 update. Typically, a BIOS update’s "What’s New" section would outline enhancements to compatibility with newer hardware, resolutions to known issues, or performance optimizations.
To determine the specific changes introduced in this update, it’s recommended to consult the official ASRock website, search for relevant forums or online communities discussing the ASRock 970 Extreme4, or check the release notes (if available) accompanying the BIOS update file. These resources may provide detailed information about the improvements included in the ASRock 970 Extreme4 Bios 2.20.
Specifications
The provided source doesn’t include detailed specifications for the ASRock 970 Extreme4 motherboard. However, based on the model name, it is likely a motherboard designed for AMD processors. Key specifications would typically include:
- CPU Support: Socket type and compatible AMD processor families (e.g., AM3+, FX series).
- Chipset: Northbridge and Southbridge chipset combination used on the motherboard (e.g., AMD 970 + SB950).
- Memory Support: Number of memory slots, maximum memory capacity, and supported memory types (e.g., DDR3).
- Expansion Slots: Number and types of expansion slots (e.g., PCI-E x16, PCI-E x1, PCI).
- Storage Interfaces: Number of SATA ports, support for RAID configurations.
- USB Ports: Number of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports.
- Audio Codec: Onboard audio solution.
- LAN Chipset: Onboard network interface controller.
For accurate and complete specifications, refer to the official ASRock website and the product page for the ASRock 970 Extreme4 motherboard.
How to Update the BIOS
The provided text outlines two methods for updating the BIOS using ASRock’s Instant Flash utility. Before proceeding, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved and to back up your current BIOS settings. A failed BIOS update can render your motherboard unusable.
Important Precautions:
- Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): Ensure that your computer is connected to a UPS to prevent power outages during the update process. A sudden power loss can corrupt the BIOS and brick your motherboard.
- Download the Correct BIOS File: Download the BIOS file specifically designed for your ASRock 970 Extreme4 motherboard from the official ASRock website. Using the wrong BIOS file can damage your motherboard.
- Do Not Interrupt the Process: Once the BIOS update process has started, do not turn off your computer or interrupt the process in any way.
- Read the Instructions Carefully: Carefully read and understand the instructions provided by ASRock before attempting to update the BIOS.
Method 1: Instant Flash via BIOS Setup
- Download the BIOS File: Download the ASRock 970 Extreme4 Bios 2.20 file (970%20Extreme4(2.20)WIN.zip) from the official ASRock website or a reputable mirror site.
- Extract the BIOS File: Extract the contents of the downloaded ZIP file to a USB flash drive. The USB drive should be formatted with FAT32.
- Enter BIOS Setup: Restart your computer and press the appropriate key (usually Delete, F2, or F12) to enter the BIOS setup utility.
- Navigate to Instant Flash: Look for the "Instant Flash" option in the BIOS setup menu. It’s usually located in the "Tool" or "Advanced" section.
- Select the BIOS File: The Instant Flash utility will scan for available BIOS files on connected storage devices. Select the BIOS file you extracted to the USB drive.
- Confirm the Update: The utility will prompt you to confirm the BIOS update. Carefully verify that you have selected the correct file and confirm the update.
- Wait for the Update to Complete: The BIOS update process will begin. Do not interrupt the process. The computer will automatically restart after the update is complete.
Method 2: Instant Flash via Bootable USB
- Create a Bootable USB Drive: You will need a bootable USB drive. You can create one using various tools, such as Rufus or the Windows Media Creation Tool.
- Download and Extract the BIOS File: Download the ASRock 970 Extreme4 Bios 2.20 file (970%20Extreme4(2.20)WIN.zip) from the official ASRock website or a reputable mirror site. Extract the BIOS file to the root directory of the bootable USB drive.
- Boot from the USB Drive: Restart your computer and configure the BIOS to boot from the USB drive. This is usually done by changing the boot order in the BIOS setup utility.
- Run Instant Flash: After booting from the USB drive, you may need to run the Instant Flash utility manually. The specific command to run will depend on the utility included with the BIOS file.
- Select the BIOS File: The Instant Flash utility will scan for available BIOS files on the USB drive. Select the BIOS file you extracted.
- Confirm the Update: The utility will prompt you to confirm the BIOS update. Carefully verify that you have selected the correct file and confirm the update.
- Wait for the Update to Complete: The BIOS update process will begin. Do not interrupt the process. The computer will automatically restart after the update is complete.
Troubleshooting
The provided text includes a crucial warning: "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."
This highlights the importance of having a backup of your original BIOS file. If the update fails, try repeating the process. If the problem persists, revert to the original BIOS file. If you cannot recover from a failed BIOS update, you may need to contact ASRock support or a qualified computer technician for assistance.
Driver Download Link
You can download the ASRock 970 Extreme4 Bios 2.20 from the following location:
- Filename: 970%20Extreme4(2.20)WIN.zip (As per original article)
- Alternative Download Link: (It is recommended to search for "ASRock 970 Extreme4 Bios 2.20 download" on a reputable driver download site such as Softpedia or DriverGuide for a mirror link, ensuring the file is from a trusted source)
Disclaimer: Always exercise caution when downloading files from the internet. Verify the file’s integrity and source before installing it.