The ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 motherboard was a popular choice for enthusiasts and gamers building systems around Intel’s 2nd and 3rd generation Core processors. A critical component of any motherboard is its BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), which is firmware that initializes the hardware during the boot process and provides a low-level interface to the operating system. This article provides an informative guide to the ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 BIOS 1.20, focusing on its features, potential updates, and the procedure for updating the BIOS under Windows Vista and Windows 7.
Understanding the BIOS
Before delving into the specifics of BIOS 1.20, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental role of the BIOS. The BIOS acts as the bridge between the hardware and the operating system. It performs the following key functions:
- Power-On Self-Test (POST): When you power on your computer, the BIOS performs a series of diagnostic tests to ensure that all essential hardware components (CPU, memory, storage devices, etc.) are functioning correctly.
- Bootloader: After the POST, the BIOS locates and loads the operating system from the designated boot device (typically a hard drive or SSD).
- Hardware Abstraction: The BIOS provides a set of low-level routines that the operating system can use to interact with the hardware. This allows the operating system to control devices without needing to know the specific details of their operation.
- CMOS Configuration: The BIOS settings are stored in a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) chip, which is powered by a small battery. This allows the system to retain the BIOS settings even when the computer is turned off. These settings allow users to configure boot order, CPU settings, memory timings, and other essential system parameters.
Features of the ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 BIOS
The original source material provides a placeholder for "Features," which is unfortunate. However, based on the capabilities of the ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 motherboard itself and common BIOS features of the time, we can infer some of the functionalities provided by the BIOS:
- CPU Support: The BIOS would support a range of Intel 2nd and 3rd generation Core processors (Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge). It would allow users to adjust CPU multipliers, voltage, and other settings to fine-tune performance.
- Memory Support: The BIOS would support DDR3 memory modules at various speeds and timings. Users could configure memory timings and voltage to optimize memory performance.
- Storage Device Support: The BIOS would support SATA hard drives and SSDs. It might also include support for RAID configurations.
- Boot Order Configuration: The BIOS would allow users to specify the order in which the system attempts to boot from different devices (hard drive, SSD, optical drive, USB drive, etc.).
- Integrated Graphics Configuration: For processors with integrated graphics, the BIOS would allow users to allocate memory to the integrated GPU and configure other related settings.
- Hardware Monitoring: The BIOS would likely include sensors to monitor CPU temperature, fan speeds, and system voltages.
- Overclocking Features: Given the target audience of enthusiasts, the BIOS would probably offer overclocking features, allowing users to push the limits of their CPU and memory.
- Security Features: The BIOS might include features such as a boot password to prevent unauthorized access to the system.
Potential Updates in BIOS 1.20
Similarly, the "What’s New" section in the original source is also a placeholder. BIOS updates typically address bug fixes, improve hardware compatibility, and enhance system performance. Possible updates in BIOS 1.20 could have included:
- Improved CPU Compatibility: Support for newer revisions of existing CPUs or potentially even preliminary support for upcoming processors.
- Enhanced Memory Compatibility: Improved compatibility with a wider range of DDR3 memory modules.
- Bug Fixes: Resolution of any known bugs or stability issues in the previous BIOS version.
- Performance Enhancements: Minor tweaks to improve overall system performance.
- Security Patches: Addressing any security vulnerabilities that may have been discovered.
- Updated Option ROMs: Updates to the Option ROMs for storage controllers or network adapters to improve compatibility and performance.
Updating the BIOS Under Windows Vista / Windows 7
The original document outlines the procedure for updating the BIOS under Windows Vista and Windows 7. While the specific steps might vary slightly depending on the exact utility provided by ASRock, the general process is as follows:
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Download the BIOS Update: Download the ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 BIOS 1.20 update file from a trusted source, such as the official ASRock website or a reputable driver download site.
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Extract the Files: Extract the contents of the downloaded ZIP file to a folder on your hard drive. This folder will typically contain the BIOS file itself (usually with a .ROM or .BIN extension) and a flash utility.
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Run the Flash Utility: Locate the flash utility in the extracted folder and run it as an administrator. This is crucial for ensuring that the utility has the necessary permissions to access the hardware.
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Select the BIOS File: The flash utility will prompt you to select the BIOS file that you want to flash. Browse to the folder where you extracted the files and select the BIOS file.
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Initiate the Flashing Process: Once you have selected the BIOS file, initiate the flashing process. The utility will typically display a progress bar indicating the status of the update.
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Restart the System: After the flashing process is complete, the utility will prompt you to restart your system. It is essential to restart the system immediately to allow the new BIOS to take effect.
Important Considerations:
- Backup Your Existing BIOS: Before updating the BIOS, it is always a good idea to back up your existing BIOS. This will allow you to revert to the previous version if something goes wrong during the update process. Many BIOS utilities provide an option to create a backup.
- Ensure a Stable Power Supply: It is crucial to ensure that your system has a stable power supply during the BIOS update process. A power outage or interruption could corrupt the BIOS and render your system unusable. Consider using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to protect against power outages.
- Do Not Interrupt the Process: Do not interrupt the BIOS update process under any circumstances. Do not turn off your system or restart it manually while the update is in progress.
- Read the Instructions Carefully: Carefully read the instructions provided by ASRock before updating the BIOS. These instructions may contain specific information or warnings that are relevant to your particular motherboard model.
Warning: As the original note states, if you encounter problems while updating the new BIOS, DO NOT turn off your system, as this corrupt BIOS might cause your system to fail to boot. Just repeat the process, and if the problem 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.
Download Links
Here are some download links for the ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 BIOS 1.20:
Alternative Download Links:
(Please note that availability may vary and use these links at your own risk. Always scan downloaded files with an antivirus program.)
- Softpedia: (Search Softpedia for "ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 BIOS")
- DriverGuide: (Search DriverGuide for "ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 BIOS")
- DriversCollection: (Search DriversCollection for "ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 BIOS")
- Station-Drivers: (Search Station-Drivers for "ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 BIOS")
- WinDrivers: (Search WinDrivers for "ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 BIOS")
These alternative sources may offer the BIOS file; however, exercise caution and verify the file’s authenticity before flashing. It’s always preferable to obtain the BIOS from the official ASRock website if possible.
Conclusion
Updating the BIOS on your ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 motherboard can be a beneficial process, potentially improving system stability, compatibility, and performance. However, it is essential to proceed with caution and follow the instructions carefully. By understanding the role of the BIOS, the potential benefits of updating, and the proper procedure for flashing the BIOS, you can minimize the risk of encountering problems and ensure a successful update. The ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3 is a capable board and keeping its BIOS updated can extend its life.