updated BIOS, now nothing starts up

[elzmaddy]

I have a system with an Epox 8RDA3+ that I updated to the latest bios firmware, but now I cannot start any operating system, either from hard drive or from CD. For example, when I boot from Ultimate Boot CD, I can get to the main menu, but I cannot start a DOS boot disk image, I get a "divide error, stack" message. SUSE Linux boot CD will start, but going to Ínstallation gives me a blank screen. Only memtest86 can start, and runs fine. Also, my floppy drive is no longer recognized.

It sounds to me like either a bad bios update or incorrect bios settings. I've tried failsafe defaults, but no go. I leave the memory specs on Auto, and set the FSB and multiplier to the correct settings.

I appreciate any comments or suggestions.

 

[montag451]

Try resetting BIOS by using the CLRCMOS jumper whilst your computer is unplugged.
Disconnect everything that is unnecessary to boot from mobo and psu - excess drives, sound etc.
If that fails, Try reflashing.
If that fails can you RMA?

 

[daniel49]

if all of the above fail flash back to previous version for bios

 

[elzmaddy]

Resetting the jumper did the trick. Thank you!

I wonder why loading fail-safe defaults didn't have the same effect.

 

[xgsound]

Clearing the bios is a common requirement after a bios update. I've heard this is because there is no telling what result your old settings will have after the registers are all redefined. This can leave many of the apparent settings inoperable until the clear.


Jim