IBM THINKCENTRE 8086 User Manual

Contents

Appendix A. Updating system programsThis appendix contains information about updating system programs and how torecover from a POST/BIOS update failure.System programsSystem programs are the basic layer of software that is built into your computer.They include the power-on self-test (POST), the basic input/output system (BIOS)code, and the IBM Setup Utility program. POST is a set of tests and proceduresthat is performed each time you turn on your computer. BIOS is a layer ofsoftware that translates instructions from other layers of software into electricalsignals that the computer hardware can understand. You can use the IBM SetupUtility program to view and change the configuration and setup of your computer.Your computer system board has a module called electrically erasable programmableread-only memory (EEPROM, also referred to as flash memory). You can easily updatePOST, BIOS, and the IBM Setup Utility program by starting your computer using aflash update diskette or by running a special update program from your operatingsystem.Note: An optional USB diskette drive is required to update (flash) BIOS from adiskette.IBM might make changes and enhancements to the system programs. Whenupdates are released, they are available as downloadable files on the World WideWeb (see the Quick Reference). Instructions for using the system program updatesare available in a .txt file that is included with the update files. For most models,you can download either an update program to create a system-program-update(flash) diskette or an update program that can be run from the operating system.Updating (flashing) BIOS from a disketteNote: An optional USB diskette drive is required to update (flash) BIOS from adiskette.1. Insert a system program update (flash) diskette into the diskette drive (drive A)in your computer. System program updates are available athttp://www.ibm.com/pc/support/ on the World Wide Web.2. Turn on the computer. If it is on already, you must turn it off and back onagain. The update begins.Updating (flashing) BIOS from your operating systemNote: Due to constant improvements being made to the IBM Web site, Web pagecontent (including the links referenced in the following procedure) is subjectto change.1. From your browser, type http://www.pc.ibm.com/support in the address fieldand press Enter.2. Locate the Downloadable files for your machine type.3. Under Select your product, choose your machine type and click Go.4. In Downloadable file by category, click BIOS.© Copyright IBM Corp. 2004 29