This article provides information regarding the ASRock A780GMH/128M motherboard BIOS update version 1.20, specifically designed for installation under Windows Vista. It outlines the update process, important precautions, and the enhancements included in this particular BIOS revision. Updating your motherboard’s BIOS can improve system stability, compatibility, and performance. However, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved and follow the instructions carefully.
Understanding the BIOS
The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a firmware program embedded on a chip on the motherboard. It’s the first piece of software that runs when you power on your computer. Its primary function is to initialize the hardware components of the system and load the operating system. The BIOS controls fundamental operations such as booting, memory management, and communication with peripherals.
Why Update Your BIOS?
BIOS updates are released by motherboard manufacturers to address various issues and introduce new features. Common reasons for updating the BIOS include:
- Improved Hardware Compatibility: Updates often include support for newer CPUs, memory modules, and other hardware components.
- Enhanced System Stability: Bug fixes and optimizations in the BIOS can improve the overall stability and reliability of the system.
- Performance Enhancements: Some updates can optimize system performance, particularly in areas such as memory access and CPU utilization.
- Security Patches: BIOS updates can address security vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited by malicious software.
- New Features: Occasionally, updates introduce new features or options within the BIOS setup utility.
ASRock A780GMH/128M Bios 1.20: What’s New
BIOS version 1.20 for the ASRock A780GMH/128M motherboard includes the following key improvements:
- Patches Logitech USB illuminated Keyboard (LZ838BH): Resolves compatibility issues with the specified Logitech USB illuminated keyboard model, ensuring proper functionality and input recognition.
- Updates code to display HDD size in TB when HDD size >= 1TB: Modifies the BIOS to accurately display hard drive sizes exceeding 1TB in terabytes (TB) within the BIOS setup utility, providing a more user-friendly representation of storage capacity.
- Changes SETUP item ‘Legacy USB Support’ default = ‘Enabled’: Sets the default setting for ‘Legacy USB Support’ in the BIOS setup to ‘Enabled’. This ensures that older USB devices, such as keyboards and mice, are properly recognized during the boot process, particularly in operating systems that may not have native USB support enabled early in the boot sequence.
- Changes SETUP item ‘Front Panel’ default = ‘Enabled’: Sets the default setting for ‘Front Panel’ functionality to ‘Enabled’. This ensures that the front panel connectors on the computer case, such as the power button, reset button, and audio jacks, are properly configured and functional by default.
- Updates CPU code: Includes updates to the CPU code, likely addressing compatibility issues or improving performance with specific CPU models supported by the ASRock A780GMH/128M motherboard.
Updating the BIOS under Windows Vista: A Step-by-Step Guide
The provided instructions are specifically for updating the ASRock A780GMH/128M BIOS under Windows Vista. Although the process may be similar for other Windows versions, it’s crucial to consult the official ASRock documentation for your specific operating system to ensure compatibility and avoid potential issues.
- Locate the AFUWIN.exe Utility: This utility is a flashing tool specifically designed for updating the BIOS. It is usually included in the downloaded BIOS package.
- Run AFUWIN.exe as Administrator: Right-click the "AFUWIN.exe" file and select "Run as administrator" from the context menu. This is essential because the BIOS update process requires elevated privileges to access and modify system firmware.
Important Precautions and Potential Risks
Updating the BIOS is a sensitive operation, and it’s vital to take the following precautions to minimize the risk of problems:
- Use the Correct BIOS File: Ensure you are using the correct BIOS file specifically designed for your ASRock A780GMH/128M motherboard. Using an incorrect file can render your system unusable.
- Stable Power Supply: Maintain a stable power supply throughout the update process. Power interruptions or fluctuations can corrupt the BIOS and cause irreversible damage. Consider using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to protect against power outages.
- Close All Applications: Close all running applications before starting the update process. This will minimize the risk of conflicts or errors during the flashing procedure.
- Do Not Interrupt the Process: Once the update process has begun, do not interrupt it under any circumstances. Avoid turning off the computer, restarting it, or performing any other actions that could interfere with the flashing process.
- Backup Your Existing BIOS (If Possible): Some BIOS flashing utilities offer the option to back up your existing BIOS before updating. If this option is available, it’s highly recommended to create a backup as a safety measure.
- Read the Official Documentation: Consult the official ASRock documentation for your motherboard for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions and warnings.
What to Do if Problems Occur
The following guidance is taken directly from the original instructions:
"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."
In other words, if the flashing process fails, attempt to repeat the procedure. If that doesn’t work, try flashing the original BIOS file. If neither of these options works, your system may require professional servicing.
Download Link
You can download the ASRock A780GMH/128M Bios 1.20 from the following link: https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/11916/
Alternative Download Links
While the TechSpot link is the primary source, here are several alternative websites where you might find the ASRock A780GMH/128M Bios 1.20, although availability cannot be guaranteed:
- Softpedia: (Search for "ASRock A780GMH/128M BIOS" on Softpedia)
- DriverGuide: (Search for "ASRock A780GMH/128M BIOS" on DriverGuide)
- DriversCollection: (Search for "ASRock A780GMH/128M BIOS" on DriversCollection)
- Driver Downloads: (Search for "ASRock A780GMH/128M BIOS" on Driver Downloads)
- Filehorse: (Search for "ASRock A780GMH/128M BIOS" on Filehorse)
Disclaimer: These are general driver download sites. Always exercise caution when downloading files from the internet. Verify the file’s authenticity and scan it with an antivirus program before running it.
Conclusion
Updating the ASRock A780GMH/128M BIOS to version 1.20 can provide improvements in compatibility, stability, and potentially performance. However, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved and follow the instructions carefully. Always prioritize safety and consult the official ASRock documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date information. By taking the necessary precautions, you can successfully update your BIOS and ensure the optimal performance of your system.