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stuey10

2 Posts

8409

March 28th, 2005 22:00

changing BIOS settings in XP

Does anyone know how to change the BIOS settings in XP? I used to know how to do this in previous OS versions, but can not figure it out in XP.
 
I need to change the settings for the parallel port to the following:
enabled
Mode = ECP
Port address = 378h
IRQ = 7
DMA = 3
 
From what I can see in the Device Manager, the mode and port address are set as needed, but I need to change the IRQ and DMA.
 
I have spent over an hour with Dell Support, but with no luck in reaching anyone who can answer anything but the most basic questions. The tech support documentation is of no help.
 
Thanks anyone
sharon

JarmoD

171 Posts

March 28th, 2005 23:00

Bios setup is accessed at boot time, typically (for Dells) by pressing F2 as the machine boots.

Majestic

9.4K Posts

March 29th, 2005 13:00

Click here for the User Guide for your model.  It will explain how to enter the BIOS Setup.

Mary G

4 Operator

 • 

20.1K Posts

March 29th, 2005 13:00

Some Dells use different keys for entering bios. Look up your model in Product Support above or post it here. Bios is also called Setup. Watch your screen while first booting for instructions.

stuey10

2 Posts

March 29th, 2005 13:00

Mary,

My model is the Inspiron 2650. I couldn't find any info on changing the BIOS in the support area and it was going to cost $39 to speak to someone who could possibly answer my question but with no guarantee. This forum has proved much more helpful. I will watch the screen as it boots. I recall F7 in previous laptops I've owned.

thanks

sharon

Majestic

9.4K Posts

March 29th, 2005 13:00

With a Dell BIOS the most you can probably change depending on your model is the setting for the Mode and Port Address.   Since Windows by design is suppose to share IRQs this setting is not available in most of the Dell BIOSes.   If you are having a conflict with a device sharing an IRQ with the parallel port then try switching the conflicting device to another PCI slot.  This is assuming the conflicting piece of hardware is a PCI card.  

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