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Studio XPS 435MT, cannot upgrade to BIOS 1.1.2
I am trying to update the BIOS on my aged Studio XPS 435MT.
My BIOS version is 1..1.1, and the latest BIOS update is 1.1.4
I have tried to follow the procedures at https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-ca/drivers/driversdetails?driverid=r253098&oscode=wv64&productcode=studio-xps-435
The bootable USB drive option leads to a black screen with a blinking cursor (no C:\ prompt). I have tried both FreeDos and the method outlined by Dell here https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-ca/000145519/how-to-create-a-bootable-usb-flash-drive-using-dell-diagnostic-deployment-package-dddp
Attempts to execute the BIOS update via the Windows method results in a "failure to launch" message.
I am running Windows 10 on an internal SSD, as I was anxious to have security updates when Vista support was discontinued. FYI - attempts to update the BIOS when I was still running Vista also failed.
Any suggestions?
redxps630
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September 9th, 2024 14:27
first thing to do is replace cmos battery w a new one then clear cmos settings via motherboard jumper
redxps630
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September 9th, 2024 14:30
Re: My BIOS version is 1..1.1, and the latest BIOS update is 1.1.4
this is a very old Intel 1st gen i7 pc. bios 1.1.4 does not have much better security than 1.1.1. both were written many years ago. I believe the 435MT is End of life. 1.1.4 is circa 27 Dec 2009
All you need is have latest Win 10. You do not need a most uodated yet still ancient bios to improve security,
Far North Guy
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September 10th, 2024 06:17
@redxps630 Thanks. I will try that
Far North Guy
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September 10th, 2024 06:18
@redxps630 Understood re: end-of-life. But, I want to upgrade the CPU and want to lessen the chance of incompatibility issues.
redxps630
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September 10th, 2024 13:36
The 435MT, unlike its bigger cousin tower 435T, does not enjoy a bios upgrade to support gulftown 6 core cpu or equivalent Xeon cpu. The bios 1.1.4 does nothing to help w cpu upgrade in 435MT.
cpu is limited to 4 core Intel 1st gen.
Far North Guy
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September 10th, 2024 16:16
@redxps630 Understood re: 6 core cpu. I am planning on upgrading to the highest compatible 4 core (to i7-975, from i7-920).
redxps630
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September 10th, 2024 18:53
it appears old bios in early 2009 already supports i7 975
https://www.userbenchmark.com/UserRun/46545982
Far North Guy
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September 10th, 2024 22:02
@redxps630 Thanks. Seems updating the bios might be too much pain for the gain.
redxps630
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September 10th, 2024 22:43
not only little gain but unnecessary risk as these old mobo bios can be brittle. a failed or stalled flash bricks the board.
incidentally i7 975 may need a more beefy cooler or liquid cooler than 920. but you can not overclock in the 435MT
Far North Guy
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September 11th, 2024 03:26
@redxps630 Understood. Will be watching for extra heat and will upgrade the cooler if need be.