OT: System and Video BIOS Question

Chronon · #1 August 14th, 2003, 03:46 PM

I was doing some software upgrading recently, and I downloaded SiSoft's latest Sandra system benchmark software. Checking out the system and video sections, it informed me that my system and video BIOS's are very old (from around 1998).

I know nothing about these programs (or even if they are technically programs) other than they allow the hardware to work with the software. Do I really need newer Versions? If so, how do I go about finding them? And, how do I know exactly which ones I need?

I know we have a few IT experts here. If one of you could help, I would really appreciate it. Thanks!

Edit: I should probably give you some system information.
System: Dell Dimension v400c with Celeron 400 Mhz
CPU: P6C Celeron 300-533 MHz 2v
BIOS: Intel 4A4RB0X0.10A.0020.P07
OS: Windows 98 (no bLaster worm, woohoo!)
Integrated Video: ATI XPERT 980 AGP 2X

[ August 14, 2003, 14:55: Message edited by: Chronon ]

Slynky · #2 August 14th, 2003, 03:52 PM

Most system BIOS can be "flashed" (see your manufacturer). Not sure about the ability to flash video BIOS, though.

The dangers? Flashing your BIOS is supposed to be able to be done without any problem. Though I've done done a few and never had a problem afterwards, but I'd hate to tell you you won't encounter a problem.

Others may comment with different information.

Chronon · #3 August 14th, 2003, 03:56 PM

Slynky, Wow, that was fast!

For the manufacturer, would that be Dell (computer) or Intel (CPU)?

rdouglass · #4 August 14th, 2003, 04:18 PM

It should be Dell not Intel. BIOS is a motherboard feature and not a processor feature.

IMO this site is one of the best out there for finding BIOS info...

http://www.wimsbios.com/

Chronon · #5 August 14th, 2003, 04:26 PM

Thanks rdouglass, that looks like an excellent site. I'll have to take some time this evening and look through it. It looks like there is plenty of good introductory information about BIOS's, and how to upgrade them.

Thermodyne · #6 August 14th, 2003, 04:35 PM

If you are not having a problem, don't flash. While a new bios can add features or fix problems, the act of installing them (flashing) can go wrong. If the new bios does not add something that you need, why risk it?