- BIOS Recovery and Replacement -
| Home > FAQ |
|
Where on my motherboard is the BIOS chip located? The location will be different for each board, but it will be a PLCC in a socket or soldered to the board and usually has a sticker on it. The sticker would usually have something like "Award-BIOS", "AMI BIOS", or "Phoenix BIOS" printed on it along with some numbers. Click here for an example.
|
||||
|
How can I find my motherboard model number? It is usually printed right on the motherboard. Click here for an example. |
||||
|
Where can I find a link to the BIOS file for my motherboard? Most motherboard makers have a website with the most current BIOS binary (.bin) files available for download. Find the name of your motherboard maker (printed on the board), then use a search engine to find their homepage. |
||||
|
How do I remove the chip from the socket? The proper way is with a PLCC Extractor. If that is not an option, you can use something small like a paperclip to stick in the corners of the socket and pry the chip out. Make sure the power is off before removing the chip. |
||||
|
How long will it take to receive my chip? If you sent a chip for reflashing, you should receive it within a few business days. If you ordered a new chip, it can take 3-10 business days depending on how many we have in stock. |
||||
|
How do I package the chip for shipping? Putting the chip in something static proof like a 35 mm film can or some static proof bubble wrap would give it all the protection it needs. |
||||
|
What if I send my chip and you discover that it is damaged? In this case we would contact you and apply your payment to the cost of a new chip if we have the correct chip in stock. Otherwise you will be issued a refund. |
||||
|
What if I receive a bad chip? Send us the chip and we will check it. If it is not working, we will replace it. |
||||
|
My computer is not booting after installing the new/reflashed chip, what should I do? See the troubleshooting section. |
||||
|
Can a soldered chip be repaired or replaced? If the pins come out the other side of the board, then it is possible to remove. If you are experienced at soldering it should be no problem to remove and resolder the chip. For most people, it is usually best to replace the whole motherboard in this case. |
||||
|
If I send you the motherboard with the soldered BIOS, will you reflash the BIOS? In most cases, this would cost more than it would to replace the whole motherboard. If this is your only option, email us and we will give you a quote.  |
||||
|
Do you flash DIPs (dual in-line packages)? We do not currently support DIPs. |
||||
|
I can barely set my alarm clock, let alone remove or replace my BIOS chip. What other options do I have? This procedure is easier than you think. It involves opening the case on your computer, searching for the BIOS chip on the motherboard, and removing it. If you feel you can't do this, you can take it to your local computer store and have them do it. It can be done in a few minutes and should not cost much if anything. |
||||
|
Do you only accept PayPal? Yes, we currently only accept payments through PayPal. It is a very easy way to send money and you don't need a PayPal account to do so. |
||||
|
My question was not answered, who should I contact? |
