Updating the BIOS
Updated versions of the BIOS may be available on the HP website.
Most BIOS updates on the HP website are packaged in compressed files called
SoftPaqs
.
Some download packages contain a file named Readme.txt, which contains information regarding
installing and troubleshooting the file.
Determining the BIOS version
To determine whether available BIOS updates contain later BIOS versions than those currently
installed on the computer, you need to know the version of the system BIOS currently installed.
BIOS version information (also known as
ROM date
and
System BIOS
) can be displayed by pressing
fn
+
esc
(if you are already in Windows) or by using Computer Setup.
1.
Start Computer Setup.
2.
Use a pointing device or the arrow keys to select
Main
>
System Information
.
3.
To exit Computer Setup without saving your changes, click the
Exit
icon in the lower-right corner
of the screen, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
– or –
Use the
tab
key and the arrow keys to select
Main
>
Ignore Changes and Exit
, and then press
enter
.
Downloading a BIOS update
CAUTION:
To reduce the risk of damage to the computer or an unsuccessful installation, download
and install a BIOS update only when the computer is connected to reliable external power using the
AC adapter. Do not download or install a BIOS update while the computer is running on battery
power, docked in an optional docking device, or connected to an optional power source. During the
download and installation, follow these instructions:
Do not disconnect power on the computer by unplugging the power cord from the AC outlet.
Do not shut down the computer or initiate Sleep.
Do not insert, remove, connect, or disconnect any device, cable, or cord.
1.
Access the HP website,
http://www.hp.com
.
2.
Click
Support
, and then click
Download drivers
.
3.
Enter the product name in the text box, and the click
Go
.
4.
Select your computer model, and then select your operating system.
5.
In the BIOS section, follow these steps:
a.
Identify the most recent BIOS update and compare it to the BIOS version currently installed
on your computer. Make a note of the date, name, or other identifier. You may need this
information to locate the update later, after it has been downloaded to your hard drive.
b.
Follow the on-screen instructions to download your selection to the hard drive.
If the update is more recent than your BIOS, make a note of the path to the location on your
hard drive where the BIOS update is downloaded. You will need to access this path when
you are ready to install the update.
Using Computer Setup
83
