ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 Bios 1.20

The ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 motherboard, designed for Intel’s Lynnfield processors, gained considerable popularity for its balance of features, performance, and affordability. A crucial aspect of maintaining optimal functionality and compatibility for this motherboard is ensuring the BIOS is up-to-date. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 BIOS version 1.20, its significance, potential benefits, and how to obtain and install it.

Understanding the BIOS: The Foundation of Your System

The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) is firmware embedded on a small chip on the motherboard. It serves as the intermediary between the hardware and the operating system. When you power on your computer, the BIOS performs a Power-On Self-Test (POST) to verify the integrity of the hardware components, such as the CPU, memory, and storage devices. It then initializes these components and loads the operating system.

The BIOS is essential for the proper functioning of your computer. It controls various settings, including boot order, CPU voltage, memory timings, and fan speeds. Keeping the BIOS up-to-date is crucial for several reasons:

• Improved Hardware Compatibility: New hardware is constantly being developed. BIOS updates often include support for newer CPUs, memory modules, and other peripherals. Updating the BIOS ensures that your motherboard can properly recognize and work with these devices.
• Enhanced System Stability: BIOS updates frequently address bugs and stability issues that can cause system crashes, freezes, or other unexpected behavior.
• Performance Optimizations: BIOS updates may include optimizations that improve system performance, such as faster boot times or increased CPU efficiency.
• Security Enhancements: In some cases, BIOS updates may include security patches that address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware or other malicious software.
• New Features: Occasionally, a BIOS update may introduce new features, such as support for new technologies or improved overclocking capabilities.

ASRock P55 Pro/USB3: A Motherboard Overview

The ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 is built around the Intel P55 Express chipset, which supports Intel’s Core i7-8xx and Core i5-7xx series processors (Lynnfield). It features four DDR3 DIMM slots, allowing for up to 16GB of RAM, and supports dual-channel memory architecture. The motherboard also includes two PCI Express x16 slots for graphics cards (supporting AMD CrossFireX), as well as multiple PCI Express x1 and PCI slots for expansion cards.

A key feature of the ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 is its inclusion of USB 3.0 ports, which offer significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to USB 2.0. This was a relatively new technology at the time of the motherboard’s release, making it a desirable feature for users who frequently transferred large files.

ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 Bios 1.20: What’s New?

While specific release notes for BIOS version 1.20 are often unavailable without direct access to ASRock’s official changelog (which may no longer be publicly accessible for older products), it’s generally understood that BIOS updates for motherboards like the ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 typically address the issues mentioned above: hardware compatibility, stability, and performance.

Therefore, we can infer that BIOS 1.20 likely included:

• Improved CPU Compatibility: Support for potentially newer steppings of Lynnfield processors or perhaps even early support for future processors (though less likely on this chipset).
• Enhanced Memory Compatibility: Improved handling of different DDR3 memory modules, potentially resolving issues with specific brands or speeds.
• Bug Fixes: Resolution of any known stability issues or bugs present in previous BIOS versions.
• Minor Performance Tweaks: Small optimizations to improve overall system performance.

Without official release notes, it’s impossible to provide a definitive list of changes. However, the typical nature of BIOS updates for motherboards in this era suggests these are the most probable improvements included in the ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 Bios 1.20.

Obtaining ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 Bios 1.20

It is strongly recommended to download the ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 Bios 1.20 from a reputable source to avoid the risk of downloading corrupted or malicious files. Here is the original download link:

• TechSpot Driver Download

As an alternative, here are 5 alternative download links for the ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 BIOS 1.20:

1. Softpedia
2. DriverGuide (Note: DriverGuide may require registration)
3. DriversCollection
4. MyDrivers
5. FileHorse

Important Considerations Before Updating

Before proceeding with a BIOS update, it’s crucial to take the following precautions:

• Identify Your Motherboard Revision: Different revisions of the same motherboard model may require different BIOS versions. Verify your motherboard revision using the ASRock website or the motherboard’s manual.
• Back Up Your Existing BIOS: Most BIOS utilities allow you to back up your current BIOS version to a file. This is essential in case the update process fails or the new BIOS causes problems.
• Ensure a Stable Power Supply: A power outage during the BIOS update process can corrupt the BIOS and render your motherboard unusable. Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) if possible, or ensure that your power supply is stable.
• Read the Instructions Carefully: Follow the instructions provided by ASRock precisely. Incorrectly flashing the BIOS can damage your motherboard.

Flashing the ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 Bios 1.20

The process of flashing the BIOS typically involves the following steps:

1. Download the BIOS File: Download the BIOS file from the ASRock website or a trusted source.
2. Extract the BIOS File: The BIOS file is usually compressed in a ZIP archive. Extract the contents of the archive to a USB flash drive.
3. Prepare a Bootable USB Drive (If Necessary): Some BIOS update utilities require a bootable USB drive. You can create a bootable USB drive using tools like Rufus or the built-in Windows Disk Management utility.
4. Enter the BIOS Setup Utility: Restart your computer and press the appropriate key (usually Delete, F2, or F12) to enter the BIOS setup utility.
5. Locate the BIOS Update Utility: The BIOS setup utility typically includes a built-in BIOS update utility. The location of this utility varies depending on the BIOS manufacturer.
6. Select the BIOS File: Use the BIOS update utility to select the BIOS file on the USB flash drive.
7. Begin the Update Process: Follow the on-screen instructions to begin the BIOS update process. Do not interrupt the process until it is complete.
8. Restart Your Computer: Once the BIOS update is complete, the computer will automatically restart.

Troubleshooting BIOS Update Issues

If you encounter problems during the BIOS update process, consult the ASRock website or the motherboard’s manual for troubleshooting tips. Common issues include:

• Incorrect BIOS File: Ensure that you are using the correct BIOS file for your motherboard revision.
• Corrupted BIOS File: Download the BIOS file again to ensure that it is not corrupted.
• Incompatible USB Drive: Try using a different USB drive.
• Power Failure: If a power failure occurs during the BIOS update process, the BIOS may be corrupted. In this case, you may need to contact ASRock support for assistance.

Conclusion

Updating the ASRock P55 Pro/USB3 Bios 1.20 can be a valuable step in ensuring optimal performance, compatibility, and stability for your system. By understanding the importance of the BIOS, taking the necessary precautions, and following the instructions carefully, you can successfully update your BIOS and enjoy the benefits of the latest improvements. Remember to download the BIOS from a reputable source and always back up your existing BIOS before proceeding with the update. The ASRock P55 Pro/USB3, when paired with an updated BIOS, can continue to provide reliable performance for years to come.