Inspiron 1501 BIOS update without Windows

Question

Hi, I've an Inspiron 1501 without Windows. I've problems with the wireless card and I hope a BIOS update could solve it (I have BIOS version 1.4.0 installed and the newest is 1.7.0). Even though the help on the Web site http://support.euro.dell.com/support/downloads/download.aspx?c=en&l=en&s=gen&releaseid=R142027&SystemID=INS_PNT_1501&os=BIOSA&osl=EN&deviceid=13120&devlib=0&typecnt=1&vercnt=3&formatcnt=1&libid=1&fileid=189540 says that you can use DOS to flash it, a test with FreeDOS gave me the usual 'This program cannot be run in DOS mode.' message. Can anybody confirm whether it does work under DOS ? Does anybody know whether there is a way to flash the BIOS without installing Windows ? Thanks, SurJector

bacillus · Answer

you can use the bios file to flash in pure dos by adding the file to a bootable floppy or cdr. here is how to make a bootable cdr, http://www.bay-wolf.com/burnimage.htm

SurJector · Answer

I know how to boot in DOS (FreeDOS actually) but the executable won't run in DOS: to be precise it does run but only print the message: "This program cannot be run in DOS mode". I wanted to know whether this is the expected behaviour (i.e. if the program NEEDS windows to run) or if I have a problem in my setup.

Thanks for any help,

SurJector

StereoHeathen · Answer

I've been having this same exact problem, and a solution for it would certainly be helpful

AlxMAX · Answer

On the BIOS download page (A07) they say the update program, Win1501210.exe, may be run in DOS mode. If it did not run on FreeDOS, try a Windows 98 or a Windows Me boot disk.

StereoHeathen · Answer

Sounds like a good plan, but, where would I find what I need to make a bootable CD of one of those? Message Edited by StereoHeathen on 02-11-2007 02:17 PM

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