Updating your motherboard’s BIOS is a critical process that can improve system stability, enhance hardware compatibility, and unlock new features. This article provides information regarding the ASRock A780GXE/128M BIOS update version 1.50 for Windows, outlining the update’s improvements and offering guidance on how to perform the update safely. It’s essential to approach BIOS updates with caution, as a failed update can render your system unusable.
Understanding the BIOS
The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) is firmware embedded on a small chip on your motherboard. It’s the first software to run when you power on your computer. The BIOS performs several crucial tasks, including:
- Power-On Self-Test (POST): Diagnosing hardware components to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Bootstrapping: Locating and loading the operating system from a storage device (hard drive, SSD, etc.).
- Hardware Abstraction: Providing a low-level interface for the operating system to interact with hardware.
- Setup Utility: Allowing users to configure system settings, such as boot order, fan speeds, and overclocking options.
ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios 1.50: What’s New?
The ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios 1.50 update includes the following improvements and changes:
- Patches Logitech USB Illuminated Keyboard (LZ838BH): Addresses compatibility issues or functionality problems experienced with the specified Logitech keyboard model. This ensures proper recognition and operation of the keyboard within the BIOS environment and the operating system.
- Updates code to display HDD size in TB when HDD size >= 1TB: This is a crucial update for users with large capacity hard drives. Older BIOS versions might incorrectly display the size of hard drives exceeding 1TB. This update ensures accurate reporting of storage capacity in terabytes.
- Changes SETUP item ‘Legacy USB Support’ default = ‘Enabled’: ‘Legacy USB Support’ allows older operating systems (like DOS) to recognize USB devices. Enabling it by default improves compatibility with older peripherals and operating systems, but might not be necessary for modern systems.
- Changes SETUP item ‘Front Panel’ default = ‘Enabled’: This setting controls whether the front panel audio and USB ports are enabled by default. Setting it to ‘Enabled’ ensures that these ports are immediately functional after a fresh installation or BIOS reset.
- Updates CPU code: This likely includes microcode updates that improve CPU stability, enhance performance, or address security vulnerabilities. CPU microcode is essential for the proper functioning of the processor, and updates are frequently released by CPU manufacturers to resolve issues.
Updating the ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios 1.50 Under Windows
Disclaimer: BIOS updates are inherently risky. Incorrectly flashing the BIOS can render your motherboard unusable. Proceed with caution and only if you are comfortable with the process. Ensure you have a stable power supply before starting the update.
The following steps are based on the provided information and are intended as a general guide. Always refer to the official ASRock documentation for your specific motherboard model for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions.
Before you begin:
- Download the correct BIOS file: Obtain the ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios 1.50 file from a reliable source, such as the official ASRock website or a trusted driver repository. You can download it here: https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/11914/
- Identify your motherboard revision: Some motherboards have different revisions, and using the wrong BIOS file can cause serious problems. Check your motherboard’s documentation or look for a revision number printed on the board itself.
- Close all running applications: Before updating the BIOS, close all open programs to minimize the risk of conflicts or interruptions during the flashing process.
- Disable Antivirus Software: Temporarily disable your antivirus software as it may interfere with the BIOS update process.
Update Procedure (Using AFUWIN.exe):
The provided instructions specify using AFUWIN.exe to update the BIOS under Windows Vista. The general process remains the same for later Windows versions, although the specific executable might be named slightly differently (e.g., AFUWINx64.exe for 64-bit systems).
Update BIOS under Windows Vista:
Step1: Please right click AFUWIN.exe
Step2: Click “Run as administrator”.
Notice:
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.
What’s New:
1. Patches Logitech USB illuminated Keyboard (LZ838BH)
2. Updates code to display HDD size in TB when HDD size >= 1TB.
3. Changes SETUP item ‘Legacy USB Support’ default = ‘Enabled’.
4. Changes SETUP item ‘Front Panel’ default = ‘Enabled’.
5. Updates CPU code.
- Locate AFUWIN.exe: This utility should be included with the downloaded BIOS file.
- Run as Administrator: Right-click on AFUWIN.exe and select "Run as administrator." This is crucial, as the BIOS flashing process requires elevated privileges.
- Select the BIOS file: Within AFUWIN, you’ll need to locate and select the downloaded BIOS file. The program will usually have a "Browse" or "Open" button to allow you to do this.
- Start the flashing process: Once the BIOS file is selected, click the "Flash" or "Update" button to begin the process.
- Wait for the process to complete: The flashing process can take several minutes. Do not interrupt the process under any circumstances. Interrupting the process can corrupt the BIOS and render your system unusable.
- Restart your computer: Once the flashing process is complete, the utility will usually prompt you to restart your computer. Allow the system to reboot.
Important Considerations:
- Power Supply: Ensure that your computer has a stable power supply during the BIOS update. A power outage or interruption during the flashing process can corrupt the BIOS. Consider using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for added protection.
- Backup: Although not always possible, backing up your current BIOS before updating is a good practice. This allows you to revert to the previous version if something goes wrong. However, AFUWIN might not always offer a backup option.
- Troubleshooting: If you encounter problems during the update, do not turn off your system. The provided notice emphasizes the importance of repeating the process. If the problem persists, attempt to update with the original BIOS file. If the Flash Memory Writer utility fails to update a complete BIOS file, your system may not boot, and you will need to seek professional service.
Alternative Download Links for ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios 1.50:
While the primary download link is provided above, it’s always wise to have alternative sources in case the primary link is unavailable. Here are five alternative download links for the ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios 1.50 (Please note that the availability of these files is subject to change and depends on third-party websites):
- Driverscape: (Check Driverscape for ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios)
- Softpedia: (Check Softpedia for ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios)
- DriverGuide: (Check DriverGuide for ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios)
- Station-Drivers: (Check Station-Drivers for ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios)
- A Mirror Site Search: Use a search engine like Google or DuckDuckGo and search for "ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios 1.50 download mirror." This will help you find other websites hosting the file.
Disclaimer: Always exercise caution when downloading files from unofficial sources. Verify the file’s authenticity by comparing its checksum (MD5 or SHA-1) with the checksum provided by ASRock (if available).
Conclusion
Updating the BIOS on your ASRock A780GXE/128M motherboard can provide valuable improvements and fixes. This article provided guidance on the ASRock A780GXE/128M Bios 1.50 and how to update using AFUWIN. However, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved and to follow the instructions carefully. If you are unsure about any step, it is best to seek assistance from a qualified computer technician. Remember to prioritize a stable power supply and to avoid interrupting the flashing process. With careful preparation and execution, you can successfully update your BIOS and enjoy the benefits of the latest improvements.