Studio XPS 8100 Bios Upgrade

If it is still under warranty (which I would assume it probably is), go ahead and update.  Dell will replace the motherboard if the BIOS goes bad and the system is no longer usable.  Bad BIOS flashes do happen, but they are extremely rare.  If it is not under warranty, then you need to measure what the update offers against the unlikely possibility of losing your systemboard functionality.

The release notes for this A05 says:

"Update CPU microcode for launching INTEL new stepping CPU."

So, if you don't plan on upgrading your processor to a later model, then you don't need the update anyway. 

Thanks for the reply.  Everything seems to work ok so I think I will just leave it be.  This is a brand new system, got it about  a week ago but the book recommends updating the Bios

It's a good idea to at least be aware of updates for your computer, as they not only contain code valuable for upgrading hardware/software, but often contain fixes for bugs in the hardware.  For sure, upgrade all system firmware (including BIOS) before the system goes out of warranty.  Whether you keep it, sell it, or give it away, you could be doing yourself or someone else a favor.  That way, if it does go wrong, then Dell can get it replaced before it's out of warranty.

Thanks!  It's A05 installed 7/8/10, same as the OP.

Boot to the BIOS Setup (F2) and it will list the BIOS version at the top.

I got my XPS 8100 on 11/18/10.  Had some issues and was running diagnostics and could swear that I saw A04 listed.  With the release date of A05, I must have a the older version.  I tried to install A05, it said that A05 is either older or the same as what I have but showed both the file and the current as being A05.

Where exactly in the BIOS is the version and install date listed?

Just look in System Information (start>all programs>accessories>system tools>system information) and you'll see the bios version and date.