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Roel
10-24-2001, 05:01 AM
Im having PII 350Mhz with 4.3 GB HD. I wanted to add another HD but Im not able to find a smaller GB. I got a 40GB seagate now. But when I fixed its not getting detected. Do I need to upgrade my BIOS? how to back up my existing BIOS?

BigBlue66
10-24-2001, 01:54 PM
Hey,

If your computer is working fine except for not recognizing the new harddrive, then a BIOS update is not recommended. Trust me on that. Others will back me up.

The safest way to get your system to recognize the new harddrive is to use the Disk Management Software that should have been included with the new harddrive. It's usually on a floppy disk and is bootable. Use that to install Disk Drive Overlay, (sometimes called EZ-BIOS) on the harddrive. You can also partition and format the new harddrive using the disk management software floppy disk.

Once the DDO (EZ-BIOS) is installed, the system will recognize all 40 gigs of the new drive.

Seagate's disk management software is commonly referred to as Disc Wizard, or something close to that. Check the box that the new harddrive came in for a floppy labeled as such. Boot up using the floppy, choose to install DDO, partition and format and then you're on your way.

If you did not receive the Disc Wizard software, you can download it from Seagate's website.

Good luck.

Big Blue 66


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Life = Karma, or is it, Karma = Life?

diurnal
10-24-2001, 02:25 PM
Ill back you up bigblue, updating your bios is a real pain, especially if you have a older model motherboard. I would not recommend it to anyone, its very technical and invovles dos, and thats bad for rookies. The newer motherboards have address this issue by making bios updates easier, i think now you can do it through windows. Also the ezbios you add to your existing bios is a solution, but personally i would not recommend it . Because if you mess up your exitsting bios, its over. The damage is irreplacable, unless you buy a new rom chip and thats not good. I would go with a new motherboard but thats my opinion , others i know will disagree, so dont take my advice unless your absoulutely sure.

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Sledgehammer will save the day!

Roel
10-25-2001, 12:21 AM
Thank you guys. I wish I can do that but, How?? Here's the scenario.

I fixed the new 40GB seagate as a Master and an old Wester Digital 4.3GB as slave both on IDE 1. Jumpers are all set accordingly. But when I boot up the system it didn't continue it fail on detecting my new 40GB as master.. there is a message (press f4 to skip) but it didn't work. So I Interchanged it I assigned 4.3GB as Master and 40GB as slave.. Same thing it detedt only my 4.3 as master and hung up for detecting the slave. Now guys can you pls. tell me how can I use that program you're refering instead of updating my Bios. Thanks god you remind me I was about to do the BIOS update.....

Whyzman
10-25-2001, 12:48 AM
Some of the older MB Biosi (or Bioses) have some sort of limit on the HDD size they are capable of recognizing. Perhaps the folks up on this could chime in about now....also, does the EZ BIOS overcome the inability of the older Biosi to recognize the larger HDDs without updating?




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May all your dealings in life be win/win!

Whyzman

Roel
10-25-2001, 01:40 AM
Whyzman
How can I used this EZ bios. can you tell me the procedures. Since Im not able to boot the machine. Where can I get this thing

Thanks

BigBlue66
10-25-2001, 10:18 AM
Hey,

Use the Disc Wizard software that should have come with the new harddrive. It's on a 3 1/2" floppy disk. Insert it in the floppy drive and turn the computer on. The computer will boot to that disk.

Among the choices present, choose the one that says it will check your existing BIOS for compatibility with the new harddrive. If the BIOS is older, it probably won't recognize all 40gigs of the new drive without using the EZ-BIOS. Look at the options presented to you after the computer boots up using the floppy disk. There should be an option for Easy Setup, or something like that. It will check the BIOS and install the DDO software if needed. Keep in mind that you will then have to partition and format the drive for usability.

Included in the options, should be an option for copying all contents from your old harddrive to the new harddrive. Make sure you have the new harddrive set to Master and the old one set to slave. Choose to copy all contents of the old drive to the new drive. Your computer should then boot as before.

If you didn't receive the Disc Wizard software, you can download it from Seagate's website.

Good luck.

Big Blue 66


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Life = Karma, or is it, Karma = Life?

Roel
10-25-2001, 10:48 AM
BigBlue66
I don't have that floppy. my new DH comes along with a cd. I don't know yet what is inside since Im not able to boot my PC.
Are you saying once I have this Disc Wizard software I can boot my PC? how about the process of detecting my new HD. That's my main problem the machine can't be use coz its getting hung up during POST.

diurnal
10-25-2001, 05:44 PM
Get a new motherboard aand processer

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Sledgehammer will save the day!

BigBlue66
10-25-2001, 08:54 PM
Roel,

No, No, there is nothing wrong with a PII 350. You don't need a new motherboard and processor, unless of course, that is what you want. I don't think it is. I think you just want to be able to use the new harddrive. Right?

You need disk management software that will not only allow you to boot your computer, but will install Disk Drive Overlay software so that your system will recognize the full capacity of the drive. You can also partition and format using the disk management software. Go here:
http://www.seagate.com/support/disc/drivers/discwiz.html

Scroll about 2/3 down the page. Download the Disk Manager software for DOS. Read up on it. Follow the directions to make a bootable floppy with the disk manager software on it. Then, reread my previous posts as to how to go about using it.

Important: You may have to go into the BIOS setup on your computer and set the boot sequence to start with the floppy drive. Usually, you hit the Del key to enter setup. Watch the screen. There should be a message that tells you how to get into setup. I think the option you need is under Advanced CMOS Setup, but if not, look at all the choices until you see the line item that says something like, "Boot sequence". Use the PgUp or PgDn key to toggle between the choices. Make sure that Floppy is the first device selected. Save and exit. Make sure the Disk Manager floppy is in the drive and it will boot to it. Follow the directions.

Make sure you have the new drive set as Master and the old drive set as slave. Reread my previous posts. If you don't have any luck, I'm gonna have to come over there and help you. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Good luck.

Big Blue 66




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Life = Karma, or is it, Karma = Life?

Whyzman
10-25-2001, 10:38 PM
BB66...

I've seen photos of the Philippine sunsets...should you need an assistant...boy, I'd like to see one in person! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/smile.gif

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May all your dealings in life be win/win!

Whyzman

Roel
10-26-2001, 01:12 AM
BigBlue66

Thanks for your help it looks like Im having a clear pictures now. I hope that it will gonna work. The instruction you have given me was great and clear. If all didn't work then You really need to come down here and help me. hehehe. But don't worry everything will be free during your stay here. Just provide a ticket

Whyzman
Wanna see some real sunset/sunrised here come and visit my place you're most welcome...

Whyzman
10-26-2001, 01:38 AM
Roel,

You are most gracious! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif Would you be sure to post back and let us know if everything works out alright?



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May all your dealings in life be win/win!

Whyzman

Roel
10-26-2001, 01:57 AM
Whyzman
I have downloaded the DiscWizard but the problem is its about 6MB which I don't think can't be stored on a floppy disk. My PC at home doesn't have internet right now since I re format my HD. Onother problem is when I re installed my WINDOWS I can't see my CD DRIVE.. could you pls help me

mjc
10-26-2001, 02:05 AM
Ok, do a search on Google (http://www.google.com) for file splitters...there are a bunch out there...they can be used to split a file up into floppy sized pieces, it would take about 5 floppies.


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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.dreamwater.org/tech/mjc/index.htm)

Celts are the men that heaven made mad, For all their battles are merry and their songs are all sad.

Whyzman
10-26-2001, 02:07 AM
Roel,

You'll have to wait for BigBlue on this one. I'm not at all familiar with the program. The whole download may not be needed...perhaps just a utility or two. Sounds to me like BB has got this covered.

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May all your dealings in life be win/win!

Whyzman

Roel
10-26-2001, 02:13 AM
That's great news then...I hope they can tell me which file I might needed to fire up the machine

Thank you guys

[This message has been edited by Roel (edited 10-26-2001).]

BigBlue66
10-26-2001, 11:06 AM
DAMMIT JIM! One thing I hate is to type out a big long response and then get an internal server error! Oivay!

Anyway, Roel, read the directions on the web page I provided. It specifically says to not try to download that file to a floppy. You must download the executable file to the harddrive of the computer you're using to access the net. Be sure to download the Disk Manager for DOS 32bit. That file can always be deleted later.

Once the file has been downloaded, insert a freshly formatted 1.44mb floppy disk in the floppy drive. Find the downloaded file and double-click it. It will by magic install the disk management software onto the floppy disk and make it bootable.

Take that floppy disk to your computer and insert it in the floppy drive. Again, you may need to go into the BIOS setup and make sure that the floppy drive is selected as the first boot device. Re-read my previous posts.

The system should boot to that floppy, after a period of time, be patient, and then you will see the disk manager software splash screen and several options. Choose the Easy Setup option, or something similar to that.

Read and read some more. On that web page is everything you need to know in order to create a bootable floppy disk and how to use it. Use the links provided. Again, make sure you're downloading the 32bit DOS version of Disk Manager.

Be patient, take your time and re-read my previous posts. You can do this!

Post back with your progress, please.

Big Blue 66


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Life = Karma, or is it, Karma = Life?

Roel
10-26-2001, 02:19 PM
Whyzman........ BigBlue66.....

Guys thanks for helping me. .. here's the lates I managed to have a Disk Manager in the floppy.. I boot up my machine and still Im getting same problem hung up on detecting my 40GB seagate. where ever I assigned it always getting hung. But somehow I manage to use the disk manager just to have an Idea what it looks like and how it works. I tried to use it on mg 40GB but its giving me the problem which I expect. It is something like BIOS problem. So the bottom line is Disk Manager didn't work and still I can't understand why. I manage to normalized my PC and I hook up to internet. I was thinking to download the update BIOS for my main board. Do you think it will help... My mainboard is PC Partner i440BX chip set... I already found the site where to get the update... Im just want to know your opinions GUYS.... before I carry out this suicidal things hehehehee.... Comment pls...

Just a inquiry does it matter which socket I used in IDE 1 data cable as long as I assigned and place the jumper properly... or the socket should go to master and the middle one should go tp slave disk... ( sounds funny ah)
Thanks

[This message has been edited by Roel (edited 10-26-2001).]

diurnal
10-26-2001, 02:36 PM
Im telling you roel youll save a alot of hardship, if you just get another motherboard and processer, which now is like a 120 bucks(oh probably need a new case too).If you update your bios, and it doesnt work, you might be done for. Make sure to back up the old bios. This procedure, i think , is the hardest thing to do , updating your bios, but it can be done. Go to your motherboard site and find the update bios procedures.

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Sledgehammer will save the day!

^JyHaD
10-26-2001, 02:40 PM
Kabayan! Baka maaring makatulong ako.

First of all, lemme get this straight. You're using a P2-350 on a PC Partner i440BX and you want to add a 40GB Seagate HD plus your old 4.3GB WD HD. Right?

Have you tried isolating the problem? I'm not familiar with the PC Partner i440BX mobo but if you can provide me with a link to the BIOS upgrade site then I might be able to provide you with more help. Anyway, try doing this first. Change the IDE cable.

If you live in Manila I can give you my home phone number so you can call me and guide you through the troubleshooting sequence. Otherwise, its off to the dreaded BIOS upgrade. Warning: Don't flash your BIOS unless you are absolutely sure you have the correct BIOS for the exact model and brand of your mobo.



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Celibacy is not hereditary.

Roel
10-26-2001, 03:10 PM
Thanks Kabayan.. But Im not in manila right now even my PC is not there. Im pretty much sure about my Mainboard model and chipset coz Im the one who build it last time and manuals are still with me. Here is the link for my BIOS update
http://www.pcpartner.com/bios/i440.htm#440bx
Thanks for your help.. I really appreciate it

^JyHaD
10-26-2001, 03:47 PM
Well it seems that the PC Partner site provides you with an upgrade for every board they made. Let's get back to troubleshooting. Have you tried replacing the IDE cables or at least tried placing the 40GB on the end or middle part?

If that doesn't work then have the board detect the 40GB without the 4.3GB. If the mobo detects it, there is either something wrong with your IDE cable or your mobo.

If that doesn't work then try placing the 40GB on the secondary IDE and settle for the 4.3GB as your C drive. Its sad but it will have to do until you get a new board. For me, Asus is the best but if you want more bang for the buck then get an EPOX or ABIT.

If that doesn't work try praying or better yet sacrifice a live cat. Suggestion: Shave off the fur before you burn it.
I tied a pigeon to a whistle bomb and set it off with a long fuse so I can say a couple of prayers. But that was for a board that couldn't detect my mouse. I think your problem requires a cat or something bigger. =)

If that doesn't work, you can always do the BIOS upgrade. Try to remember, flashing your mobo with a new BIOS is always a risk. Hope that there wouldn't a be a system error or power outage WHILE you are flashing it. And once again, make sure you have the CORRECT BIOS upgrade info. Try to email the manufacturers and get their info on your problem. Good luck though if you want a quick reply.

Got ICQ?


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Celibacy is not hereditary.

Roel
10-26-2001, 04:02 PM
Thanks for your Quick reponse. I have tried each and everything almost all the combination but no luck... But changing IDE cable doesn't make sense since its working on my old 4.3 HD.. Why not in 40GB?.. Sorry I just re format my HD and still didn't install back my ICQ. Anyway I keep on reviewing my board details and I'll make it sure that Im getting the right BIOS update before executing it.

Thanks

^JyHaD
10-26-2001, 04:23 PM
I forgot to tell you. It is also very important to get the issues resolved by the new BIOS you're installing. If it doesn't state the compatibility issues of the board to new harddrives then think twice before you flash your board. Always try alternatives such as those posted in this forum.

Anyway, here is the last suggestion I can think of. I don't know if this will work but try changing your IDE cable to an 80-conductor type. Also, you stated that your old IDE cable works on your 4.3GB. It might not make sense to you but trying another IDE cable is worth a try. Those things are cheap anyway costing around 50PhP or 1US$. Try installing the 40GB on another PC, maybe its defective or something, but do it on another PC that has the same mobo you have.

Pare, I'm emphasizing to you that flashing your board is a great risk. If you fail then there is the risk of losing your board. By the way, where are you in the Philippines?

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Celibacy is not hereditary.

^JyHaD
10-26-2001, 04:25 PM
I forgot to tell you. It is also very important to get the issues resolved by the new BIOS you're installing. If it doesn't state the compatibility issues of the board to new harddrives then think twice before you flash your board. Always try alternatives such as those posted in this forum.

Anyway, here is the last suggestion I can think of. I don't know if this will work but try changing your IDE cable to an 80-conductor type. Also, you stated that your old IDE cable works on your 4.3GB. It might not make sense to you but trying another IDE cable is worth a try. Those things are cheap anyway costing around 50PhP or 1US$. Try installing the 40GB on another PC, maybe its defective or something, but do it on another PC that has the same mobo you have.

Pare, I'm emphasizing to you that flashing your board is a great risk. If you fail then there is the risk of losing your board. By the way, where are you in the Philippines?

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Celibacy is not hereditary.

Roel
10-26-2001, 04:38 PM
Thank you for reminding me. Actually I got another 2 sets of IDE cables coz Im still having an old mainboard but never been used. Its not a well know brand (lucky tech) but as per the document says it can handle only up to 333Mhz Processor. but it's also having some jumper settings up to 450 Mhz. I think that's what they called over clocking( correct me if Im wrong) I personally don't like BIOS upgrading. But I need to utilized my 40GB.. Well I might buy another set of mainboard and P3 processor. most probobly next month in manila (PC Express). I don't have any other machine to test my 40GB. By the way Im not in Phil. right now

BigBlue66
10-26-2001, 09:44 PM
Roel,

You didn't go far enough with the disk management software!!!! Yes, you have a BIOS limitation, and yes, you won't be able to use the full capacity of the harddrive because of it.

There should have been an option with the disk management software to install Disk Drive Overlay, or maybe it's called EZ-BIOS, or maybe it's called OnTrack, or maybe it's called something different. The option should be there.

You're giving up too soon on it. DO NOT flash your BIOS unless the update will allow for the motherboard to recognize larger harddrives. If it won't, you're still right where you're at.

Hang tight whilst I go see what's up with that Disk Manager software.

Big Blue 66



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Life = Karma, or is it, Karma = Life?

BigBlue66
10-26-2001, 09:57 PM
Roel,

Ok, just got back from perusing that website. The option you should choose with the Disk Manager software is, "Easy Disk Installation". Follow the prompts. If Dynamic Drive Overlay (DDO) is required, it will present you with directions. Follow the prompts.

One other thing you should do before attempting this is, go back to the website I provided. Scroll down to where it's talking about the DOS 32bit version of Disk Manager. Click on the link that says something like, "Learn More About Disk Manager". Print those pages out. Follow the directions provided.

One thing that might be a problem is if your current BIOS does not provide AUTO and LBA options for the IDE channels. Those pages mentioned above will describe how you should set your BIOS so that the Disk Manager software can do its thing.

Good luck. I damn near ready to book a flight. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Big Blue 66

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Life = Karma, or is it, Karma = Life?

Roel
10-26-2001, 10:23 PM
BigBlue66
Well I really don't give up yet. Im still thinking how to solve this problem I have gone to all the instruction on the Website. And as I said I managed to get this 32bit Disk Manager. I have tried also so many options on that program. one thing I notice now everytime I boot my PC Im getting some message from that software (disk manager) its saying "press space bar to boot on floppy" and some seagate logos. So Im thinking that disk manager stored something in my BIOS..

You're right there is options on my CMOS for detecting IDE these are Auto, None and User(user means I have to define the disk details like sector, and others)
now if I select auto my machine didn't boot (saying press f4 to skip)
if it set to none its ok its not detecting my drive... and user also get hung coz the capacity on the bios to detect is about only 8.3 GB

Roel
10-27-2001, 12:58 AM
BigBlue66
I tried to run Disk Wizard it doesn't help at all. Its keep on asking me to set my new drive in CMOS to primary slave. Which I can't bacaused if I set it in Auto it hung and "press F4 to skip will appear" and if I select on User and feed those numbers.. It didn't detect and it hung as well. Is there any more Idea... Thanks and sorry for disturbing you..

Paleo Pete
10-27-2001, 01:07 AM
OK maybe I can come up with some things to try or help...

1st, use the spacebar to boot from a floppy. That's what the message is telling you. Disk Manager has always worked that way. Turn on the machine with the floppy NOT in the drive, and press the spacebar while that message shows. You'll have about 5 seconds to press the spacebar. THEN put in the floppy and follow the onscreen instructions.

I'm not sure if the Disk Manager software will work even then, but it might...I think with older machines and ISA controller cards things worked a bit differently, the machine would still boot to a floppy. But with an onboard controller it might not, try it and see. If it works you might be in good shape. If it boots to the floppy Disk Manager is not difficult to use, just follow the onscreen prompts. Having Disk Manager's EZBIOS already installed might allow the option to boot to a floppy before drive detection is attempted. If it doesn't, you may have no choice but a BIOS update, smaller hard drive or new motherboard.

If it won't boot, you need to know exactly what model motherboard you have and check the site where you found the BIOS update to be absolutely positive it will add support for larger drives. If so, a BIOS update might be in your future. If not, it might mean you need a new motherboard that will handle larger drives or a smaller drive.

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Support the right to keep and arm bears.
Note: Please post your questions on the forums, not in my email.

Computer Information Links (http://www.dreamwater.com/paleopete/computer.htm) has been moved, please update your bookmarks.

ranger
10-27-2001, 07:18 AM
I had a similar problem with a old gateway when installing a second hardrive. Fortunately I read the PCGuide in time to avoid a dynamic drive overlay (EZ Bios etc) It points out some of the problems with this solution and suggests instead the use of a Bios Expansion Card. I installed a Promise ATA/66 controller card which solved the problem completely, lets me add as many as 8 hard drives, and has been working flawlessly for four years. Its relatively cheap and can be purchased on line from Multiwave for under 50 dollers. If you decide to flash your bios by all means use something called Bios Savior which takes the risk out of flashing. It costs about 20 dollars from Multiwave. Good Luck.

Roel
10-27-2001, 08:54 AM
Pete Paleo
I think you got it right my machine is dtecting first the IDE before it bootup to floppy. I strongly beleived that is causing the problem. Seagate utilities didn't help at all.

BigBlue66
10-27-2001, 10:43 PM
Hmmm, OK, well, it was worth a shot, Roel. Sorry you didn't progress as planned. Using disk management software is a bit tricky. If you miss a step, or don't completely understand what is going on, it can be totally useless.

I also agree with prior postings that the EZ-BIOS is not the best solution, simply because it inhibits future things you can do. However, in the short run, and for saving money, it's a viable solution. I ran a harddrive with the DDO on it for a couple of years with no problems whatsoever.

I still am of the opinion that if I came over there, I could get it going using the disk management software. However, guess that's not in the cards, so the next best thing is to purchase an add-on ATA controller card, such as the Promise card as suggested above. I have used one and they work quite well. However, you must have a spare PCI slot on the motherboard to use it. (Something tells me that this may not be the way to go, as it too involves a bit of tricky configuration. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/eek.gif )

A cheaper, but more dangerous route, would be to flash the BIOS. You're on your own with that one. Make sure you know what you're doing and what you can expect with the flash program. Some flash programs, such as Awdflash, are very easy to use and will give you choices to make, or will even give you the option to bail out if you get weak-kneed. hehe

Other BIOS flash programs, such as the ones for the Phoenix BIOS, are not user friendly to say the least. That's speaking from personal experience, which was not a good one.

Please be sure that if you go ahead with the flash, that it will enable the features you want. If it won't, you would be better off going with the add-on controller card, or just bite the bullet and go with a new motherboard, which should have a recent BIOS date.

Good luck. Again, sorry it didn't work out, Roel. Wish I could have helped more.

Big Blue 66


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Life = Karma, or is it, Karma = Life?

Whyzman
10-28-2001, 12:38 AM
Roel,

Sounds like BIOS time! I like that idea Ranger had regarding the Bios Savior...I looked it up and for $20.00 US or thereabouts...sounds like a winner if you decide to go that route.

If you decide on a new MB the one that iisbob recommends isn't a whole lot more than the Bios Savior and sounds like a lot of bang for the buck ECS K7S5A You can check it out HERE (http://www.pricewatch.com). One source had it for $55 + 8s/h.


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May all your dealings in life be win/win!

Whyzman

[This message has been edited by Whyzman (edited 10-28-2001).]

Roel
10-28-2001, 10:53 AM
Thank you very much guys.

Well I don't have any other opitions aside from what you guys have given. as
BigBlue66 saying flashing my Bios is the cheapest but so dangerous, regarding the controller card can you pls give me some details about this what brand, and any specifications. I have some 2 PCI slot available. Changing MB is also bit difficult for me. Coz Im using a slot 1 i think its hard to find this type of MB now in the market. Bios savior is also good idea but I don't know where I can get this (if only im in USA)..

BigBlue66
I hope you can come down here and solve the problem.... You'r very much welcome.... just buy a ticket and forget about the rest...



[This message has been edited by Roel (edited 10-28-2001).]

Whyzman
10-28-2001, 12:49 PM
Roel,

You can get the BIOS SAVIOR factory direct: HERE (http://http://www.ioss.com.tw/eg/rd1/)
Or, retail, as mentioned by Ranger, Click Here (http://direct.mwave.com/mwave/ProdAC-MB.hmx?UID=&CID=&updepts=AC&DNAME=%3Cb%3EAccessories%2FCable%3C%2Fb%3E&back=ProdAC-MB.hmx?)

As far as the ATA Controller Card mentioned, again...you can Try This (http://www.pricewatch.com)

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May all your dealings in life be win/win!

Whyzman

Whyzman
10-28-2001, 12:54 PM
Cannot believe I got a Server Error...ARGH Let's try this again.

You can go Factory Direct HERE (http://www.ioss.com.tw/eg/rd1/)

Or, Retail Click Here (http://direct.mwave.com/mwave/ProdAC-MB.hmx?UID=&CID=&updepts=AC&DNAME=%3Cb%3EAccessories%2FCable%3C%2Fb%3E&back=ProdAC-MB.hmx?)

As far as the ATA Controller you could Check Here (http://www.pricewatch.com)

Hope this helps....and Good Luck!

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May all your dealings in life be win/win!

Whyzman

Roel
10-28-2001, 02:25 PM
Whyzman
I'll see if this one will help or solve my problem. Let me read and understand this first. Thank you very very much I appreciate all your help

iisbob
10-28-2001, 02:44 PM
..It will by magic install the disk management software onto the floppy disk and make it bootable...


LOL you sound like Mikey Meyers! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/tongue.gif


First off make sure you have a new 80 wire EIDE cable if this is a new ATA 100 drive, they will not work with the older IDE 40 wire cables- not enough grounding. I have an old Epox 440bx chipset with a 40 GB Maxtor on it, i did update the BIOS, but if i didn't i'd have used the EZBIOS wizrad as blue suggested.


Try this; Boot into your current BIOS and set the first boot device to floppy ( A ) make sure you have created the Disk Wizard on a standard floppy first of course, Set the new drive as Master and place it on the end of the cable, place the old drive on the middle connector on your IDE#1 cable After booting with the floppy just follow the Disk wizard in assigning a partition/format for your new drive the wizard will recognize your BIOS's limitations and set up the DDO(disk drive overlay)

Post back with your results.

No need to buy a new Motherboard if you just follow these steps, and those of Pete's and Blue's.



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iisbob
"Ward, come upstairs and talk to The Beaver."
-- June (Mrs. Frisky) Cleaver

Roel
10-28-2001, 03:19 PM
iisbob
Thanks for the suggestion I don't remember If I already tried that before. Since i have tried so many combinations to make it work.Anyway let see if this will gonna work. Im not so familiar with the cables you're refering. I'll check the local shop so that I can have it.. I hope that my bios wil detect the new drive... Coz I'll trying for a couple of days using Disk Manager but it really didn't help at all...

rond36
10-29-2001, 05:05 PM
If you can get one put the new 40GB drive on a Promise IDE controler card thats what I did to get my 40GB WD drive to work with my 440LX mobo 4.51PG award BIOS. The Promise card has its own BIOS with support for large hard drives. I think that it will even support the new 120GB Western Digital drive that just came out! Put the 4.3GB drive on the primary IDE controler as master without a slave. put the 40GB drive on Promise PCI IDE controler as IDE 0 master without slave. The card will give you 4 more IDE chanels than you have now for a total of 8 IDE devices.

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Alright who messed it up this time!

Roel
10-29-2001, 05:29 PM
Rond36

Thanks for giving me that idea but where can I buy this thing. Any sites you can give me so that I can reviews things all about this card.

Mr_Galactica
10-30-2001, 10:18 PM
Dude ..

I fully agree with issbob on making sure you have a ATA100 IDE cable for the drive IF indeed it is an ATA100 HDD

I have just been down this road ( The new cable looks much nicer . lol)

oh yer and it fixeg the prob !! hehe

B$#~+y Things.. PC's http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Roel
10-30-2001, 10:53 PM
Yeh Im fully convince now that this one will help me to make my 40GB works. But still Im not able to get the cable. neither the promised drive.

Whyzman
10-30-2001, 10:57 PM
Roel,

I think that there are vendors who will ship internationally. Try again HERE (http://www.pricewatch.com) http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

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May all your dealings in life be win/win!

Whyzman