Updateing the BIOS on a R4

Question

I would like to update my BIOS I currently have the original BIOS version AO3 that came installed when I bought the computer.  I want to update to the latest version of A11 I have read so many horror stories about things going wrong when updating the BIOS, like bricking the mother board and the Command Center not working after and update. What is the best way to update, I have read to update to version A05 first, can I jump to A05 or do I have to go to A04 first, then after A05 jump to A11? My computer is working  great right now, I am doing this so I can upgrade my video card, I'm not so sure I have the nerve to redo the BIOS,  but I sure would like to upgrade the video card, So any advice, tips or hints  would be greatly appreciated

Alienware - Rodrigo · Accepted Answer

Hi Nisei,

Yes, please follow the exact order that I posted on my previous reply for flashing the Bios to the latest version. You can disregard what it says about running Bios A05 from a bootable USB flash drive, you can download and run the executable from Windows. Let us know is you need further assistance.

Alienware - Rodrigo · Answer

Hi,

We recommend you update from A03 to A05, then from A05 to A07, and finally from A07 to A11. When you are going to flash Bios, make sure no other programs are running at the time, the system needs to restart for each Bios update so make sure nothing interrupts this process.

Tesla1856 · Answer

Yes, it's a 'stepped' approach like Rodrigo posted. Heed his warning to prevent bricking your motherboard. Still a nice system config. Have you considered adding a SSD for Windows boot drive?

compnut · Answer

yes I have thought about an SSD for boot drive, if I live through the BIOS update and new graphics card that my be my next project .....

Nisei · Answer

Hi compnut

Did you succeed? I'm in exactly the same situation (having to upgrade from A03 to A11). Did you go from A03 -> A05 -> A07 -> A11 like suggested?

I was wondering: the A05 description says you have to run the exe from a bootable USB flash drive while versions A07 and up say you can do the upgrade from Windows. Is this correct or can A05 also be done from Windows?

Thanks in advance

Nisei · Answer

Can anyone answer that last question please? Thanks

Nisei · Answer

Thanks Rodrigo I'm not looking forward doing it but I will have to if I want to upgrade my video card.

Nisei · Answer

Rodrigo,

Do I have to write down all the current settings (memory speed, processor clock speed etcetera)?

I haven't made any changes to the bios settings since I bought it so will it be set correctly when I flash to the newer versions? I have the Intel i7 3820 version.

Alienware - Rodrigo · Answer

Hi Nisei, There is no need to write down the current settings, they should remain the same with the newer Bios versions.

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