BIOS is a program that is responsible for the initial launch of the operating system as soon as the personal computer is turned on. Its name stands for "Basic Input-Output System" or "basic input-output system." What is BIOS in a computer? Why is it needed and what functions does it perform?
Its main task is troubleshooting. This is done by testing the device. If everything went well, then the search for the bootloader of the operating system and its subsequent launch.
Now that we have figured out what BIOS is in the computer and what it is responsible for, we can turn to the question of the reasons for the failure of the download.
Signs of Errors
You can worry about a system malfunction when one of the following events occurs when the computer starts:
- when the power button is activated, there is no reaction (it is also worth checking how it is connected);
- the computer starts, but the screen does not respond at all, and the BIOS itself emits error signals;
- when the device starts, an error message appears; keyboard buttons do not respond;
- the computer starts without errors, but too quickly; without the ability to boot the BIOS.
The following will list some reasons why the BIOS cannot be started. Methods for solving some of them will also be given.
Key entry error
The first thing worth noting is that the hot keys for launching the program on each motherboard are different. And sometimes, the combination necessary to start the BIOS may not appear on the screen at all when the device starts. This greatly complicates the task. Therefore, in order to select the necessary key combinations for entering the BIOS, you will have to choose from:
- F1;
- F2;
- Del (on some keyboards - Delete).
In the event that none of them fit, it is worth doing a search on the Internet for the model of the motherboard. Most often, this characteristic can be found in the description on the manufacturer's website or at various thematic forums.
Problem with ports
This may be the simplest reason why BIOS is not loaded. The problem may be that the USB port to which the keyboard was connected stopped working correctly, and, therefore, the device itself stopped responding to any interaction with it.
The solution is extremely simple and obvious - change the keyboard connection port to one that works stably. If we are talking about a desktop computer, you should use the USB located on the motherboard. Unlike those installed in the case, they work longer and more stable.
Now you can restart the computer and boot the BIOS again.
Input device problem or error
Before you start working with this program, you should definitely make sure that the input device is working. And it does not matter whether it is necessary to check some data on the system or install a new BIOS firmware (this will be discussed later). If suddenly, when you press the right key, nothing happened, you should perform several actions:
- check the operability of USB ports (described above);
- make sure that the keyboard itself, as well as the necessary keys, are working stably.
There are also various ways to enter the BIOS without a keyboard. It is also worth noting that when working with the BIOS, it is not advisable to use a wireless keyboard. Only if there is no wired device, although this is not so critical.
There are situations when the BIOS firmware is too old and does not support the USB interface for the input device. To fix this, you will have to use a keyboard with a PS / 2 connector. You can also purchase the appropriate adapter for the modern port.
Errors in working with devices
In a specific case, the problem is that some of the devices connected to the computer does not work correctly and leads to errors. Because of the latter, BIOS is not loaded.
As a check for a startup error, you should do the following:
- disable all drives, solid state drives and hard drives;
- remove all devices connected to the motherboard;
- disable a discrete graphics card.
In the event that the problem is resolved, it is worth starting to connect all devices one at a time. This will help determine why BIOS is not loaded. Once the defective part is identified, you can contact the repair service to find out if it needs to be fixed or not.
Sound prompts
The following often happens: the computer starts up, the BIOS is called, but signals are emitted instead, and the program does not work. In this case, you need to record the type of signal and ask for help on the Internet.
There you can find tables where a list of all the signals that the system can emit in such a situation is presented. Next, you just need to find your signals among the rest and find out what problem they are reporting and how else to solve.
Problem with program settings
A similar error occurs when the device user makes any changes to the BIOS itself. One solution to the problem may be to return the program to factory settings. You can do this as follows:
- Open the system unit or unscrew the bottom cover of the laptop.
- Find the CMOS button (located next to the battery) on the motherboard. The default position is 1-2.
- Switch it to position 3-4. Hold it for about 30 seconds.
- Return to the previous state.
Errors with the motherboard
This part is the most important part in any device. In fact, she is a computer. In the event that there is a suspicion that the BIOS is not loaded precisely because of it, it is worth performing several important operations:
- Inspect the motherboard. Various physical injuries may appear on it. It is also worth checking it for oxidation and changes in capacitors.
- If no changes in the structure of the part were found, it is necessary to carry out diagnostics. For this, all devices that were connected to it are disconnected. It is only necessary to leave the processor and speakers to control the sound signals. Only connect the monitor and the power cable from the system to the system unit.
- Now you need to reset the settings. To do this, remove the battery. After about 10 seconds, insert it into its original place.
- You can start the device. If at the same time sound signals appear - the motherboard is functioning. Otherwise, you should consider replacing it.
In the event of a breakdown of such an important part, it is worth contacting a service center. Perhaps they can bring it into working condition.
Is it possible to update BIOS from a flash drive?
The BIOS installation procedure itself is necessary when the computer has an outdated version that requires updating. Also, the cause may be a conflict of the connected device or the system data was damaged by a virus.
Now we will analyze the algorithm of how to update BIOS from a flash drive.
Board Model Definition
It is worth noting that this is not so much an update of the BIOS as installation of new drivers on the motherboard. You can define a model in the following ways:
- if an expensive and professional part was purchased, its full name will be indicated on the packaging, as well as in the attached instructions;
- the same applies to mid-range boards; their type is indicated on the front side of the box;
- in the event that the part was in plain cardboard packaging or was installed in advance, it is worth referring to the software tools:
- To find out the motherboard model and BIOS version on Windows 10, call the Run command window by pressing the Win and R keys;
- in the line enter "msinfo32";
- click "OK";
- in the window that appears, find the line that will contain information about the system, as well as the BIOS version.
You can also use the program "AIDA64 Extreme". It is paid, but has a trial period of 30 days. Can I find out the model of the board using it? by going to the "Summary Information" section. It will be in the list on the left. After that, select the item with information about the system board.
Where to get the firmware?
To update an outdated BIOS version on Windows 10, you must complete the following sequence:
- in the search engine enter the motherboard model and go to the manufacturer’s resource;
- Find the download section and select the necessary software;
- in the new section, select the latest firmware, which has the mark "Instant Flash"; download;
- Unzip the downloaded file to a formatted USB flash drive;
- insert it into the device requiring reinstallation and restart it.
The process of installing BIOS from a flash drive
Now you need to carefully follow the further algorithm of actions to install a new firmware without any problems:
- As soon as the computer starts up, press the BIOS activation button. It can be (F1, F2, Del (Delete)).
- Now you need to go to the "Instant Flash" section. The firmware version and its storage source (flash drive) will be recognized by the system automatically.
- Next, select the drive with the recorded BIOS source, as well as the firmware file itself.
- Press the enter key and wait for the installation of the program.
It is also worth noting that sometimes it becomes necessary to boot from a drive that stores the installer. To do this, you must:
- when starting the device, press the keys to activate the BIOS;
- Find the BOOT tab;
- find Boot Device Priority in it; This menu sets the priority when loading devices connected to the computer. By standard, the first is always the hard drive on which the operating system is installed;
- Now you need to highlight this line;
- Next, a USB flash drive with the installed file is selected and the enter button is activated;
- Now you need to press the F10 key and leave the program menu, while saving the settings.
- after the computer restarts, the installer written to the USB flash drive will be launched.
Important points
There are several fairly serious points regarding working with BIOS program parameters. They are given below:
- It is not advisable to reinstall if the computer is stable. There is always a risk to harm the system, and therefore, do not resort to such serious actions if you are not sure that you can do everything correctly. Or that it is really necessary.
- When downloading BIOS firmware, you need to pay attention only to the full version, and not alpha or beta.
- During installation or error correction, you can not disconnect the computer from power. Otherwise, fatal problems may occur. It is also worth getting an uninterruptible power supply.
- Before installing a new version of the program, read the instructions for flashing the motherboard. Often, it comes complete with the part.