How to Update the Compaq BIOS
By Launie Sorrels
Upgrading the BIOS allows you to accommodate newer processors, overclocking options and new features that the old BIOS may not be able to perform. Under normal circumstances, it is not a good idea to enter the BIOS unless you are proficient in computer technologies. The BIOS holds all the hardware configurations for the boot-up process, and an inexperienced user has the potential of locking himself out of the BIOS via the password feature. Take great care when entering the BIOS.
Retrieve BIOS Information
Step 1
Restart your computer.
Step 2
Press the "F1" key when the first screen appears to access the BIOS. This screen is the black initial screen that appears, not the Windows splash screen. If you see the Windows logo, then you missed the opportunity to get into the BIOS--go back to Step 1.
Step 3
Write down the BIOS version that is listed on the main screen of the BIOS.
Step 4
Exit the BIOS. Press the "F10" key, select "Yes" and then press the "Enter" key. The computer will restart and boot up normally.
Retrieve and Install the BIOS Update
Step 1
Click the "Compaq Drivers Downloads" link at the bottom of the page in the "Resources" section.
Step 2
Type in the model of your computer in the "Enter your product number" field, and click the "Next" button.
Step 3
Select the operating system that is installed on your computer.
Step 4
Find the BIOS updates that are available for your computer. BIOS updates can be found under three different headings: BIOS, BIOS-System or RomPaq.
Step 5
Click the appropriate link and download the BIOS update onto your computer.
Step 6
Copy the downloaded file onto a blank formatted floppy disk. Leave the disk in the drive and restart the computer. When the computer restarts, it will open the "Download Page" from the floppy drive. The "Download Page" will have different instructions, depending on the BIOS version and model type of your computer. After the "Download Page," the Installation Setup" screen will appear. Follow the instructions carefully and fully. Your BIOS update has now been installed.
Tips
- If you want to enter the BIOS on a pre-2002 Compaq Presario, then press the "F10" key instead of the "F1" key.
Writer Bio
Launie Sorrels is a veteran who has worked as a chef and has more than two decades of martial arts training. His writing has developed from his experience as a quality assurance manager for Microsoft and IBM. Sorrels has a degree in computer science and is currently working on his journalism degree.