This flash BIOS update is for use on 2140 and 2142 Aptiva systems. It installs BIOS level BSWxx4G (BSWUS4G on US models) on systems with Trident video chipsets and BLXxx4M (BLXUS4M on US models) on systems with Pentium II CPUs and ATI video chipsets.

Executing this file will run a program which creates a bootable floppy. Booting the computer off of the floppy will flash the BIOS, updating it to the most current level. This can solve conflicts with new hardware and software that require information not in the original BIOS in order to interact with the system.

Downloadable File:

IDFLASH.EXE
[1,035,750 bytes]
Released 1/22/99

Installation:

Download the IDFLASH.EXE file to your hard drive
Insert a blank 3.5" floppy diskette in Drive A:\ and Double-Click on the IDFLASH file stored on your hard drive to run it. Running this file will extract the necessary files to create the BIOS flash diskette.
Shut the system down normally. Be sure it is powered off, not suspended.
Insert the BIOS update diskette in the diskette drive and start (boot) the system.
A menu will prompt you to choose the desired language.
You will be asked if you would like to change the serial number. Choose (N)o.
You will be asked if you would like to change the machine type/model. Choose (N)o.
The system BIOS will be updated. When the BIOS update is complete, remove the diskette and press the enter key to reboot the system. *** Do not do this until you are prompted to do so. ***

NOTE: Unless you are an authorized servicer, DO NOT change the model number or serial number of the system. Doing so could cause your Aptiva not to function properly with software designed specially for the system.

More Information:

This update adds the following modifications to both the BSWUS4G and BLXUS4M BIOS builds contained within IDFLASH:

Corrected ATAPI drive and hard disk detection
Added checks for real-time clock (RTC) update-in-progress in power management and timer tick Y2K rollover

...and the following modifications to BLXUS4M for models with the Pentium II processor only:

Added latest processor microcode
Corrected Wake on Ring status checking

WARNING~!
Do NOT turn off or reboot your system while updating the BIOS! Should you do so irreparable damage may be done to the system.