bios upgrade for vostro 3400

Hi  rudirmee,

Welcome to the Community,

BIOS version A10 released on 11/1/2010 is the last updated BIOS version available for download.

Here is the link for downalod : www.dell.com/.../vostro-3400

Note:To view the previous BIOS versions expand Previous Versions on the same link.

Thank You

thanks roshan..really appreciate it

so how do i install them in the laptop? i just run it?

Hi rudirmee,

To update BIOS download and save it to your desktop,then double click on the saved file to install (follow on screen instruction).

Note:While updating BIOS,AC adapter should be connected to the system,battery should be adequately charged and all external peripherals(USB devices) should be disconnected from the system.

My battery won't charge and I am told I need the bios update on my vostro 3400.  Problem is the battery is below 10%.  So it's a catch 22 as I can't do the update unless the battery is above 10%.  This is kind of BS and it ticks me off that Dell would do this.  I NEED a work around please!?

Hi dwhitnack,

Welcome to the Community,

Check in BIOS (tap F2 on start up,Dell logo) if the AC adapter is getting detected normally.Does it show 65/90 watt or does it show "Unknown"?

Try releasing flea power from the system.Disconnect charger,remove battery,disconnect all external peripherals(USB devices),press and hold down power button for 30 seconds.Reconnect battery and charger and check if the battery charges normally.

Are you using the original Dell battery  and AC adapter which came along with the system?

If possible try using a different AC adapter of the same watt (borrow from some one who uses a similar AC adapter)  and confirm if the issue persists even with a different AC adapter.

Post back your findings.

Thank You

It shows "Unknown"

I did try another adapter and the issue exists with both chargers.

I'll try the flea power thing and get back to the post.

I just bought an aftermarket battery as it was "green" power and less money than Dell OEM.

Releasing the flea power did not work.  I do still have the factory OEM battery.   What next?

Hi dwhitnack,

If both AC adapters(assuming its the Dell Original AC adapter) shows "Unknown" in BIOS then it could be an issue with the system board which needs to be replaced.

Updating BIOS may help but before you can do that you may need to find a another system (same model) or check with a local repair shop  and get your system battery charged  to be able to update BIOS.

The OEM battery does it not charge on your system with both the AC adapters?