Can't get to BIOS setup

Question

My friend is having problem with windows XP(getting BSOD when loading agp440.sys) and I am trying to reload it. But it is not booting from the CD. Tried F2 to go to system setup to change the boot order, but can't go to the setup. It is a dell inspiron 5100 and has no floppy. The only way I was able to boot from CD was by removing the HD. But that does not help me because I need the HD to reinstall or repair. Can someone help, please. Thanks.

bacillus · Answer

hmm, is your friend trying to install sp2?
I suspect that you are running one of the earlier phoenix bioses & this must be updated initially to A22 in order to enter setup.
please note that A22 is not the latest available bios but it must first be installed before you can update to a later version.
since you have no floppy, you'll have to get the A22 iso, burn it to cdr then update by booting off the cdr.

http://www.bay-wolf.com/flashbios.htm

Bay Wolf · Answer

When you see the Dell BIOS splash screen, hit the key repeatedly. This should give you a one time option to boot from the CDROM.

When you see the same splash screen, hit key repeatedly to get into the BIOS setup. It is a timing issue.

snapohead · Answer

You do not need to update the bios to a dell bios to enter the setup. When the dell splash screen appears, you should see the lock lights flash on and off. When they flash, this seems to be the best time to hit the F2 or F12 keys.

bacillus · Answer

thanks for that snapohead but time after time I see the same problem popping up with folk having 1100 & 51xx models. all they seem to have in common is the old phoenix bios.
after the update the problem magically become fixed.

johnallg · Answer

Talk about a narrow window of opportunity!!

snapohead · Answer

bacillus - Thats strange. I've never had a problem getting into the setup with the phoenix bios. I have to say though, i prefer the dell bios to the phoenix bios.

kaloandhokar · Answer

I have tried all the F keys. It does not work. I have tried pressing it reapetedly, tried keeping it pressed while booting, to the point where it feels up the keyboard buffer and you start hearing the beep, still no luck. I am going to try to update the BOIS.

Bay Wolf · Answer

Try updating the BIOS.  It may correct the problem.

kaloandhokar · Answer

I upgraded the bois and was able to go to bois setup. Thanks everybody.

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Can't get to BIOS setup

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