The ASRock H61M-GS motherboard, based on the Intel H61 chipset, is a popular choice for budget-conscious PC builders. Like all motherboards, its functionality and compatibility are governed by its BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). The BIOS is a crucial piece of firmware that initializes the hardware components of a computer system during the boot process and provides runtime services for the operating system and programs. This article provides an overview of the ASRock H61M-GS BIOS version 1.20, covering its features, updating procedures, and important considerations.
Understanding the BIOS
Before diving into the specifics of version 1.20, it’s helpful to understand the role of the BIOS. The BIOS acts as an intermediary between the hardware and the software, enabling communication and ensuring everything functions correctly. It performs several key functions:
- Power-On Self-Test (POST): The BIOS runs a POST to verify that all essential hardware components, such as the CPU, memory, and graphics card, are functioning properly.
- Boot Loader: The BIOS locates and loads the operating system from the designated boot device (e.g., hard drive, SSD).
- System Configuration: The BIOS allows users to configure various system settings, such as boot order, memory timings, and CPU settings.
- Hardware Management: The BIOS provides basic control and monitoring of hardware components, such as fan speeds and temperature sensors.
ASRock H61M-GS: Basic Specifications
While the original document lacks specific details about the basic specifications of the ASRock H61M-GS, we can infer some key features based on the chipset and typical configurations:
- Chipset: Intel H61 Express Chipset
- CPU Support: Intel Socket 1155 for 2nd and 3rd Generation Intel Core i7/i5/i3 processors
- Memory: Dual Channel DDR3 memory technology
- Expansion Slots: Typically includes a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot for a graphics card and PCIe x1 slots for other expansion cards.
- Storage: SATA 3Gb/s ports for connecting hard drives and SSDs.
- Rear Panel I/O: Includes standard ports such as USB, audio jacks, and video outputs (VGA, DVI, or HDMI depending on the specific model).
It’s crucial to consult the official ASRock website or the motherboard manual for the complete and accurate specifications of your specific ASRock H61M-GS revision.
What’s New in BIOS 1.20
Unfortunately, the provided document doesn’t specify what changes or improvements are included in BIOS version 1.20. BIOS updates typically address the following:
- Improved Hardware Compatibility: Support for newer CPUs, memory modules, or other hardware components.
- Bug Fixes: Resolution of issues that may cause system instability or performance problems.
- Performance Enhancements: Optimizations that improve system performance.
- Security Updates: Patches for security vulnerabilities.
To determine the specific changes in BIOS 1.20, you should refer to the official ASRock website, the BIOS update changelog (if available), or the motherboard manual. These resources will provide a detailed list of the improvements and fixes included in the update.
Updating the ASRock H61M-GS BIOS
Updating the BIOS is a critical process that should be performed with caution. A failed BIOS update can render your system unusable. It’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and ensure a stable power supply during the update process.
Here’s a general overview of the BIOS update procedure:
- Download the BIOS Update: Download the BIOS 1.20 update file from the ASRock website or a trusted source. The download link for the ASRock H61M-GS BIOS 1.20 can be found here: https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/15342/. An alternative download link is: https://drivers.softpedia.com/get/BIOS/Asrock/ASRock-H61M-GS-BIOS-1-20.shtml , https://www.bios-mods.com/forum/Thread-ASRock-H61M-GS-R2-0-BIOS-Update, https://www.elhvb.com/mobos/manuals/Socket1155/ASRock/ASRock_H61M-GS_user%20manual1.0.pdf, https://www.motherboardbios.com/BIOS/ASRock/H61M-GS, [invalid URL removed].
- Prepare a Bootable USB Drive: You will need a bootable USB drive to flash the BIOS. You can use a utility like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive with FreeDOS.
- Copy the BIOS File: Extract the BIOS update file to the root directory of the bootable USB drive.
- Boot from USB: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup utility (usually by pressing DEL, F2, or F12 during startup). Configure the BIOS to boot from the USB drive.
- Flash the BIOS: Once the system boots from the USB drive, you will be presented with a command prompt. Run the appropriate flashing utility (usually included with the BIOS update file) and follow the on-screen instructions. The ASRock H61M-GS BIOS flashing utility is commonly called "Instant Flash".
- Restart the System: After the BIOS update is complete, restart your computer. The system should now boot with the new BIOS version.
Important Notes:
- Consult the ASRock H61M-GS motherboard manual for the specific BIOS update instructions.
- Ensure that you are using the correct BIOS file for your specific motherboard model and revision.
- Do not interrupt the BIOS update process. A power outage or interruption during the update can corrupt the BIOS and render your system unusable.
- Back up your current BIOS before updating, if possible. This will allow you to revert to the previous BIOS version if something goes wrong.
Checking the BIOS Version
It’s helpful to know your current BIOS version before and after updating. Here’s how to check the BIOS version:
- During Startup: The BIOS version is often displayed on the screen during the boot process. Look for a line that indicates the BIOS version and date.
- BIOS Setup Utility: Enter the BIOS setup utility (usually by pressing DEL, F2, or F12 during startup). The BIOS version is typically displayed on the main screen or in the system information section.
- Windows System Information: In Windows, you can find the BIOS version by opening the System Information utility (type "msinfo32" in the search bar). Look for the "BIOS Version/Date" entry.
Updating BIOS under Windows Vista / Windows 7
While updating the BIOS from within Windows is possible using ASRock’s Windows-based flashing utility, it’s generally considered less reliable than updating from a bootable USB drive. However, if you choose to update from Windows, follow these steps:
- Download the BIOS Update: Download the BIOS 1.20 update file from the ASRock website.
- Extract the Files: Extract the contents of the downloaded ZIP file to a folder on your hard drive.
- Run the Flashing Utility: Locate the Windows-based flashing utility (usually named something like "Flash.exe" or "Update.exe") in the extracted folder.
- Follow the On-Screen Instructions: Run the flashing utility and follow the on-screen instructions. The utility will guide you through the BIOS update process.
- Restart the System: After the BIOS update is complete, restart your computer.
Caution:
- Close all other applications before running the flashing utility.
- Ensure that your system has a stable power supply during the update process.
- Avoid using this method if you are not comfortable with Windows-based flashing utilities.
Important Notice
The original document includes a critical 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 warning highlights the importance of taking precautions when updating the BIOS. If the update process is interrupted or fails, your system may become unbootable. In such cases, you may need to seek professional assistance to recover the BIOS. If you have the original BIOS file, attempt to re-flash it.
Conclusion
Updating the ASRock H61M-GS BIOS to version 1.20 can provide various benefits, such as improved hardware compatibility, bug fixes, and performance enhancements. However, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and take precautions to avoid potential problems. Always refer to the official ASRock website and motherboard manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Before updating the BIOS on your ASRock H61M-GS motherboard, make sure you understand the risks and have a plan in place in case something goes wrong. This article provided information regarding the ASRock H61M-GS BIOS.