BIOS Update Question

[CoffeeandBagels]

I got this validation error in my build after ordering a different CPU than I had originally planned:

 

Compatibility Notes

• Some AMD A88X chipset motherboards may need a BIOS update prior to using Kaveri CPUs.

 

How difficult is it to update a BIOS? Should I be concerned about this?

 

Build can be viewed here:

http://pcpartpicker.com/p/tLwBNG

[LogicalDrm]

Its not that hard. But you need patience and stable powerline. Boot or shutdown at wrong moment means bricked mobo.

 

You get correct (newest for that board) BIOS files from support site and onto USB. Then booting to BIOS you select update tool (Q-Flash etc.). There you select USB and correct file on it. You select file and run it. Then you wait until you A) get screen which tells you to load Optimized settings or select correct boot device, B) If you already have running OS, wait until you get login screen/desktop.

 

Oh, and you will need to have correct and working CPU to do this. Only few Asus and AsRock boards have Flashback feature for Intel chipsets.

 

E: One more thing. If this board has been out there for few years and BIOS version also has been out for 6mo-1y, board might already run correct and working version of BIOS.

[CoffeeandBagels]

4 minutes ago, LoGiCalDrm said:

 

E: One more thing. If this board has been out there for few years and BIOS version also has been out for 6mo-1y, board might already run correct and working version of BIOS.

Does that mean I should only take action in the event of a failed boot sequence after assembling?

[LogicalDrm]

2 hours ago, CoffeeandBagels said:

Does that mean I should only take action in the event of a failed boot sequence after assembling?

It means that if chipset/BIOS version doesn't support CPU, you can't boot into BIOS. So if you fail to boot, you need another supported CPU to flash BIOS.