I found there is a BIOS update that has some enhancements I would like. Now, I know that trying to flash the BIOS in Vista (or any windows for that matter) is VERY risky, and I'd rather not try. So, I want to use my USB jumpdrive to do it. Here is where it gets icky...
I need to create a bootable USB jumpdrive in Vista. I do not have a copy of XP sitting around (have one of XP 64 bit, but that won't work). All I want is a way to put a generic OS of some type that the BIOS file will recognize and run from on bootup.
ANY help will be appriciated, as I have searched the net (and these forums) for the past 4 hours.
"Not risky as all" provided you download the version for your exact model computer. If it is the update provided in the Dell downloads section, I imagine you will have no problems assuming you follow the instructions to the letter. Also, if your system is under warrenty, Dell will replace your motherboard if you get a bed update from them.
I think it is understood the flash of the eprom chip does happen outside the Windows environment, the point I was trying to make it that it is nto necessary to have a floppy in order to do this.
ok everyone i got brave this morning and called dell tec and he assisted me in ugrading a13 toa14 bios on my inspiron 6400 under the windows eviroment and everything went well
Actually, it sounded a bit harsh but I knew what you meant. No worries. :)
Anyway, I decided to take the plunge and run the file as administrator. I knew for a long time, updating the BIOS in windows was VERY risky, simply because of the number of failures I have seen. Not to mention, updating your BIOS is not a warranty covered thing....
The update went without a hitch. BIG thanks to Dell for getting that done, and done right. Yes, it actually updates during the restart. Not entirely sure what the 'tweaks' were that they claimed they did, as the system seems to be doing ok. Though, now, when I shut the lid, it won't go into Standby....probably a setting I messed with but will look deeper.
jmwills
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Posted April 27th, 2007 12:00