Still trying to install BIOS update

[Walt & Fran]

I wrote in a few days ago asking how to install an update to my BIOS.
Received some answers but still can't get them to insall. What I can't do is
get the computer to boot from floppy. I went into the BIOS and set the
floppy as first, but when I put the disk in and restart it keeps saying that
it is not a system disk. I called Gateway and the tech said that I must have
the newest one installed already. I don't think that is true but anyway it
should still boot from a: if I set it to do that. Anyone have any other
ideas?
Am running Win XP home.

--

http://filipowiczfarm.homestead.com/

[Crusty \(-: Old Bastard :-\)]

Did you create a bootable floppy first - then add the bios flash files to
the floppy. If you don't even know how to create a bootable floppy I
"strongly" suggest you not mess with your bios!

"Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
...
> I wrote in a few days ago asking how to install an update to my BIOS.
> Received some answers but still can't get them to insall. What I can't do
is
> get the computer to boot from floppy. I went into the BIOS and set the
> floppy as first, but when I put the disk in and restart it keeps saying
that
> it is not a system disk. I called Gateway and the tech said that I must
have
> the newest one installed already. I don't think that is true but anyway it
> should still boot from a: if I set it to do that. Anyone have any other
> ideas?
> Am running Win XP home.
>
> --
>
> http://filipowiczfarm.homestead.com/
>
>

[sqr]

If you have not created a boot floppy or cannot change the bios to boot from
the floppy try a boot CD. Once you are booted run the flash program and bios
bin from a floppy which you have copied them to.

Just make sure you save the old bin when flashing and most of all you have
the correct new bios bin or you can kiss your machine goodbye.

--
Sqr
Overseer: alt.os.windows-xp
--

http://sqr.servebeer.com
ftp://sqr.myftp.biz


"Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
...
> I wrote in a few days ago asking how to install an update to my BIOS.
> Received some answers but still can't get them to insall. What I can't do
is
> get the computer to boot from floppy. I went into the BIOS and set the
> floppy as first, but when I put the disk in and restart it keeps saying
that
> it is not a system disk. I called Gateway and the tech said that I must
have
> the newest one installed already. I don't think that is true but anyway it
> should still boot from a: if I set it to do that. Anyone have any other
> ideas?
> Am running Win XP home.
>
> --
>
> http://filipowiczfarm.homestead.com/
>
>

[Walt & Fran]

No I did not create a bootable floppy, the instructions say not to all the
info is on the update command.com autoexec.bat etc.
"Crusty (-: Old ******* :-)" > wrote in
message ...
> Did you create a bootable floppy first - then add the bios flash files to
> the floppy. If you don't even know how to create a bootable floppy I
> "strongly" suggest you not mess with your bios!
>
> "Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
> ...
> > I wrote in a few days ago asking how to install an update to my BIOS.
> > Received some answers but still can't get them to insall. What I can't
do
> is
> > get the computer to boot from floppy. I went into the BIOS and set the
> > floppy as first, but when I put the disk in and restart it keeps saying
> that
> > it is not a system disk. I called Gateway and the tech said that I must
> have
> > the newest one installed already. I don't think that is true but anyway
it
> > should still boot from a: if I set it to do that. Anyone have any other
> > ideas?
> > Am running Win XP home.
> >
> > --
> >
> > http://filipowiczfarm.homestead.com/
> >
> >
>
>

[Walt & Fran]

What is a BIOS bin? I was thinking of copying the files to a CD as per the
instructions of copying to floopy do you think that might work?
"sqr" > wrote in message
...
> If you have not created a boot floppy or cannot change the bios to boot
from
> the floppy try a boot CD. Once you are booted run the flash program and
bios
> bin from a floppy which you have copied them to.
>
> Just make sure you save the old bin when flashing and most of all you have
> the correct new bios bin or you can kiss your machine goodbye.
>
> --
> Sqr
> Overseer: alt.os.windows-xp
> --
>
> http://sqr.servebeer.com
> ftp://sqr.myftp.biz
>
>
> "Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
> ...
> > I wrote in a few days ago asking how to install an update to my BIOS.
> > Received some answers but still can't get them to insall. What I can't
do
> is
> > get the computer to boot from floppy. I went into the BIOS and set the
> > floppy as first, but when I put the disk in and restart it keeps saying
> that
> > it is not a system disk. I called Gateway and the tech said that I must
> have
> > the newest one installed already. I don't think that is true but anyway
it
> > should still boot from a: if I set it to do that. Anyone have any other
> > ideas?
> > Am running Win XP home.
> >
> > --
> >
> > http://filipowiczfarm.homestead.com/
> >
> >
>
>

[Star Fleet Admiral Q]

Based on your post, my advice is to get someone knowledgeable in this area
to assist and show you the correct procedures. If this is done incorrectly,
you'll have a very expensive door stop, and will need to purchase a new PC.

"Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
...
> I wrote in a few days ago asking how to install an update to my BIOS.
> Received some answers but still can't get them to insall. What I can't do
is
> get the computer to boot from floppy. I went into the BIOS and set the
> floppy as first, but when I put the disk in and restart it keeps saying
that
> it is not a system disk. I called Gateway and the tech said that I must
have
> the newest one installed already. I don't think that is true but anyway it
> should still boot from a: if I set it to do that. Anyone have any other
> ideas?
> Am running Win XP home.
>
> --
>
> http://filipowiczfarm.homestead.com/
>
>

[Steve C. Ray]

I'm not putting you down, but it is very obvious that you don't know even
the basics. Please get a professional or someone who is knowledgeable to
help you before you destroy your computer.

--
Steve C. Ray
Replace "mail" with "36db"
"Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
...
> What is a BIOS bin? I was thinking of copying the files to a CD as per the
> instructions of copying to floopy do you think that might work?
> "sqr" > wrote in message
> ...
> > If you have not created a boot floppy or cannot change the bios to boot
> from
> > the floppy try a boot CD. Once you are booted run the flash program and
> bios
> > bin from a floppy which you have copied them to.
> >
> > Just make sure you save the old bin when flashing and most of all you
have
> > the correct new bios bin or you can kiss your machine goodbye.
> >
> > --
> > Sqr
> > Overseer: alt.os.windows-xp
> > --
> >
> > http://sqr.servebeer.com
> > ftp://sqr.myftp.biz
> >
> >
> > "Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
> > ...
> > > I wrote in a few days ago asking how to install an update to my BIOS.
> > > Received some answers but still can't get them to insall. What I can't
> do
> > is
> > > get the computer to boot from floppy. I went into the BIOS and set the
> > > floppy as first, but when I put the disk in and restart it keeps
saying
> > that
> > > it is not a system disk. I called Gateway and the tech said that I
must
> > have
> > > the newest one installed already. I don't think that is true but
anyway
> it
> > > should still boot from a: if I set it to do that. Anyone have any
other
> > > ideas?
> > > Am running Win XP home.
> > >
> > > --
> > >
> > > http://filipowiczfarm.homestead.com/
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

[Donald L McDaniel]

In article >,
says...
> I wrote in a few days ago asking how to install an update to my BIOS.
> Received some answers but still can't get them to insall. What I can't do is
> get the computer to boot from floppy. I went into the BIOS and set the
> floppy as first, but when I put the disk in and restart it keeps saying that
> it is not a system disk. I called Gateway and the tech said that I must have
> the newest one installed already. I don't think that is true but anyway it
> should still boot from a: if I set it to do that. Anyone have any other
> ideas?
> Am running Win XP home.
>
> --
>
> http://filipowiczfarm.homestead.com/
>
>
>
This posting contains generic information for flashing a BIOS. Please
read it ALL before attempting to apply ANY of it.

1) Create a "plain vanilla" bootable floppy, or download one from
http://www.bootdisk.com Make sure you create or download one which ONLY
has the system files on it, NOT the CD drivers or any other driver.
The floppy should only contain "io.sys", "msdos.sys"(or "ibmdos.sys"),
and "command.com".
2) Save the Bios flashing program on this floppy, and save the new BIOS
(usually a file with a name ending in ".bin") onto this floppy.
3) Boot with this floppy in the A: drive
4) At the "A:\" prompt, run the bios flashing program. Once in the bios
flashing program, point it to the file which ends in ".bin" (the new
Bios).

HOWEVER, SOME bioses are updated using an EXECUTABLE file. If this is
the case, simply save the executable file to the boot floppy, and run it
at the "A:\" prompt.

Also, SOME bioses are updated from within Windows. In that case, you
would probably save the BIOS flashing utility to a folder on your hard
drive you would create just for this purpose, along with the new BIOS,
and execute it from there. This may be the case if the BIOS won't fit on
a 1.44mb floppy in size

FOLLOW the directions given on the website of your motherboard
manufacturer(or computer manufacturer) for flashing the bios.

I have given fairly generic instructions for flashing a BIOS. Do NOT
follow my directions IF they are DIFFERENT from the directions given on
the computer manufacturer's website.

Before you do ANY OF THIS, download "AIDA32 Enterprise Edition" from
here: http://www.aida32.hu/aida-download.php?bit=32

Install and use it to find out the BIOS version your computer contains.
Then find out what the NEWEST bios for your computer is on the computer
manufacturer's website. Do NOT attempt to update your BIOS if it
already has the newest BIOS, or you are having no problems with your
computer. Update your BIOS as a LAST RESORT!!!

--
Donald L McDaniel
Post All replies to the Newsgroup,
so that all may be informed
==================================

[Walt & Fran]

Thank you for the valuable information and not criticism for not knowing
what to do.

"Donald L McDaniel" > wrote in message
m...
> In article >,
> > > >
> > --
> >
> > http://filipowiczfarm.homestead.com/
> >
> >
> >
> This posting contains generic information for flashing a BIOS. Please
> read it ALL before attempting to apply ANY of it.
>
> 1) Create a "plain vanilla" bootable floppy, or download one from
> http://www.bootdisk.com Make sure you create or download one which ONLY
> has the system files on it, NOT the CD drivers or any other driver.
> The floppy should only contain "io.sys", "msdos.sys"(or "ibmdos.sys"),
> and "command.com".
> 2) Save the Bios flashing program on this floppy, and save the new BIOS
> (usually a file with a name ending in ".bin") onto this floppy.
> 3) Boot with this floppy in the A: drive
> 4) At the "A:\" prompt, run the bios flashing program. Once in the bios
> flashing program, point it to the file which ends in ".bin" (the new
> Bios).
>
> HOWEVER, SOME bioses are updated using an EXECUTABLE file. If this is
> the case, simply save the executable file to the boot floppy, and run it
> at the "A:\" prompt.
>
> Also, SOME bioses are updated from within Windows. In that case, you
> would probably save the BIOS flashing utility to a folder on your hard
> drive you would create just for this purpose, along with the new BIOS,
> and execute it from there. This may be the case if the BIOS won't fit on
> a 1.44mb floppy in size
>
> FOLLOW the directions given on the website of your motherboard
> manufacturer(or computer manufacturer) for flashing the bios.
>
> I have given fairly generic instructions for flashing a BIOS. Do NOT
> follow my directions IF they are DIFFERENT from the directions given on
> the computer manufacturer's website.
>
> Before you do ANY OF THIS, download "AIDA32 Enterprise Edition" from
> here: http://www.aida32.hu/aida-download.php?bit=32
>
> Install and use it to find out the BIOS version your computer contains.
> Then find out what the NEWEST bios for your computer is on the computer
> manufacturer's website. Do NOT attempt to update your BIOS if it
> already has the newest BIOS, or you are having no problems with your
> computer. Update your BIOS as a LAST RESORT!!!
>
> --
> Donald L McDaniel
> Post All replies to the Newsgroup,
> so that all may be informed
> ==================================

[sqr]

I agree with this post.

--
Sqr
Overseer: alt.os.windows-xp
--

http://sqr.servebeer.com
ftp://sqr.myftp.biz


"Steve C. Ray" > wrote in message
...
> I'm not putting you down, but it is very obvious that you don't know even
> the basics. Please get a professional or someone who is knowledgeable to
> help you before you destroy your computer.
>
> --
> Steve C. Ray
> Replace "mail" with "36db"
> "Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
> ...
> > What is a BIOS bin? I was thinking of copying the files to a CD as per
the
> > instructions of copying to floopy do you think that might work?
> > "sqr" > wrote in message
> > ...
> > > If you have not created a boot floppy or cannot change the bios to
boot
> > from
> > > the floppy try a boot CD. Once you are booted run the flash program
and
> > bios
> > > bin from a floppy which you have copied them to.
> > >
> > > Just make sure you save the old bin when flashing and most of all you
> have
> > > the correct new bios bin or you can kiss your machine goodbye.
> > >
> > > --
> > > Sqr
> > > Overseer: alt.os.windows-xp
> > > --
> > >
> > > http://sqr.servebeer.com
> > > ftp://sqr.myftp.biz
> > >
> > >
> > > "Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
> > > ...
> > > > I wrote in a few days ago asking how to install an update to my
BIOS.
> > > > Received some answers but still can't get them to insall. What I
can't
> > do
> > > is
> > > > get the computer to boot from floppy. I went into the BIOS and set
the
> > > > floppy as first, but when I put the disk in and restart it keeps
> saying
> > > that
> > > > it is not a system disk. I called Gateway and the tech said that I
> must
> > > have
> > > > the newest one installed already. I don't think that is true but
> anyway
> > it
> > > > should still boot from a: if I set it to do that. Anyone have any
> other
> > > > ideas?
> > > > Am running Win XP home.
> > > >
> > > > --
> > > >
> > > > http://filipowiczfarm.homestead.com/
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

[Len Segal]

It isn't really criticism, it was "cautionary"! If you make a mistake
flashing a BIOS, your system will NEVER BOOT AGAIN (unless you replace the
motherboard or BIOS chip)!!

Flashing a BIOS requires that the person have some advanced technical
knowledge. You must be CERTAIN that you have the right BIOS for your
motherboard . . . sounds simple, but I have personally owned mobos where the
mfr had different BIOS for a Rev. 1.0 mobo vs. Rev. x.0 mobo and they didn't
make it easy to determine which mobo was which Rev.!

Also, the actual flash procedure may differ from one mobo mfr to another.
Due to "broken English" (BIOS flashing instructions were written in Chinese
and poorly translated into English) in the instructions (there was an
executable ZIP-file BIOS and the actual executable itself inside the
ZIP-file), I once upon a time ran the wrong executable, resulting in a
"doorstop" . . . and I've successfully flashed the BIOS hundreds of times.

So, the advice on finding someone who has good technical knowledge here was
not intended to be criticism, but to make sure that you didn't cause "fatal
damage" to your computer. Consider flashing BIOS like "brain surgery" (of
your computer), something that you really need to know what you are doing
before tackling the task to ensure that the "patient" survives.

--

Regards,
Len Segal, MCP
Microsoft - MVP
--------------
My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM Email.
NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support questions,
please post questions in newsgroup.

"Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
...
> Thank you for the valuable information and not criticism for not knowing
> what to do.



---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 4/24/2003

[Walt & Fran]

I thank you for the advice, I am new to these boards don't have much free
time and looking for help to do these kinds of things myself. I am not that
smart about computers or the way they work. That is why I am seeking help. I
just feel that for people like me (ones that don't know much but want to
learn) need a little more consideration on the answers that are given. All
the comments that are given are appreciated. I am thank-full that there are
places like this that a person can go to and receive help. Maybe I better
start all over from the beginning. I just bought a new 80 gig hard drive, I
wanted to know if I could do a clean install of Win XP Home, I am replacing
my old drive (15 gig, running out of room). I have a Gateway 633 megahertz
(?) 512 ram and it was suggested that I install an update to my bios if
there is one available. (Gateway tech support told me I cannot do a clean
install that I must first restore win me) I found on their web site that
there is a update it is about 4 months newer. I followed all the
instructions that are provided, but can't get the disk to book from a:. That
is where I am right now. In your option what would you suggest that I do?
"Len Segal" > wrote in message
...
> It isn't really criticism, it was "cautionary"! If you make a mistake
> flashing a BIOS, your system will NEVER BOOT AGAIN (unless you replace the
> motherboard or BIOS chip)!!
>
> Flashing a BIOS requires that the person have some advanced technical
> knowledge. You must be CERTAIN that you have the right BIOS for your
> motherboard . . . sounds simple, but I have personally owned mobos where
the
> mfr had different BIOS for a Rev. 1.0 mobo vs. Rev. x.0 mobo and they
didn't
> make it easy to determine which mobo was which Rev.!
>
> Also, the actual flash procedure may differ from one mobo mfr to another.
> Due to "broken English" (BIOS flashing instructions were written in
Chinese
> and poorly translated into English) in the instructions (there was an
> executable ZIP-file BIOS and the actual executable itself inside the
> ZIP-file), I once upon a time ran the wrong executable, resulting in a
> "doorstop" . . . and I've successfully flashed the BIOS hundreds of times.
>
> So, the advice on finding someone who has good technical knowledge here
was
> not intended to be criticism, but to make sure that you didn't cause
"fatal
> damage" to your computer. Consider flashing BIOS like "brain surgery" (of
> your computer), something that you really need to know what you are doing
> before tackling the task to ensure that the "patient" survives.
>
> --
>
> Regards,
> Len Segal, MCP
> Microsoft - MVP
> --------------
> My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM Email.
> NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support questions,
> please post questions in newsgroup.
>
> "Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
> ...
> > Thank you for the valuable information and not criticism for not knowing
> > what to do.
>
>
>
> ---
> Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
> Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
> Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 4/24/2003
>
>

[Steve C. Ray]

Walt, did your Gateway come with Windows ME installed? What operating system
is on the machine now? Do you have a retail XP Home disk, and if so is it an
upgrade or full version? If we know this I think we can help you.

--
Steve C. Ray
Replace "mail" with "36db"
"Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
...
> I thank you for the advice, I am new to these boards don't have much free
> time and looking for help to do these kinds of things myself. I am not
that
> smart about computers or the way they work. That is why I am seeking help.
I
> just feel that for people like me (ones that don't know much but want to
> learn) need a little more consideration on the answers that are given. All
> the comments that are given are appreciated. I am thank-full that there
are
> places like this that a person can go to and receive help. Maybe I better
> start all over from the beginning. I just bought a new 80 gig hard drive,
I
> wanted to know if I could do a clean install of Win XP Home, I am
replacing
> my old drive (15 gig, running out of room). I have a Gateway 633 megahertz
> (?) 512 ram and it was suggested that I install an update to my bios if
> there is one available. (Gateway tech support told me I cannot do a clean
> install that I must first restore win me) I found on their web site that
> there is a update it is about 4 months newer. I followed all the
> instructions that are provided, but can't get the disk to book from a:.
That
> is where I am right now. In your option what would you suggest that I do?
> "Len Segal" > wrote in message
> ...
> > It isn't really criticism, it was "cautionary"! If you make a mistake
> > flashing a BIOS, your system will NEVER BOOT AGAIN (unless you replace
the
> > motherboard or BIOS chip)!!
> >
> > Flashing a BIOS requires that the person have some advanced technical
> > knowledge. You must be CERTAIN that you have the right BIOS for your
> > motherboard . . . sounds simple, but I have personally owned mobos where
> the
> > mfr had different BIOS for a Rev. 1.0 mobo vs. Rev. x.0 mobo and they
> didn't
> > make it easy to determine which mobo was which Rev.!
> >
> > Also, the actual flash procedure may differ from one mobo mfr to
another.
> > Due to "broken English" (BIOS flashing instructions were written in
> Chinese
> > and poorly translated into English) in the instructions (there was an
> > executable ZIP-file BIOS and the actual executable itself inside the
> > ZIP-file), I once upon a time ran the wrong executable, resulting in a
> > "doorstop" . . . and I've successfully flashed the BIOS hundreds of
times.
> >
> > So, the advice on finding someone who has good technical knowledge here
> was
> > not intended to be criticism, but to make sure that you didn't cause
> "fatal
> > damage" to your computer. Consider flashing BIOS like "brain surgery"
(of
> > your computer), something that you really need to know what you are
doing
> > before tackling the task to ensure that the "patient" survives.
> >
> > --
> >
> > Regards,
> > Len Segal, MCP
> > Microsoft - MVP
> > --------------
> > My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM Email.
> > NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support questions,
> > please post questions in newsgroup.
> >
> > "Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
> > ...
> > > Thank you for the valuable information and not criticism for not
knowing
> > > what to do.
> >
> >
> >
> > ---
> > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
> > Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
> > Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 4/24/2003
> >
> >
>
>

[w filipowicz]

OK, yes my Gateway came with ME installed I have the
restoration disks for that. I bought the upgrade to Win XP
home through Gateway but it has the Microsoft logo on it
with the product key #'s (I guess that is what you call it)
I am currently running XP home. I do have a Win disk of 98
that I was going to use for the qualifing previous if my
restore disks do not or will not work.
>-----Original Message-----
>Walt, did your Gateway come with Windows ME installed?
What operating system
>is on the machine now? Do you have a retail XP Home disk,
and if so is it an
>upgrade or full version? If we know this I think we can
help you.
>
>--
>Steve C. Ray
>Replace "mail" with "36db"
>"Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
...
>> I thank you for the advice, I am new to these boards
don't have much free
>> time and looking for help to do these kinds of things
myself. I am not
>that
>> smart about computers or the way they work. That is why
I am seeking help.
>I
>> just feel that for people like me (ones that don't know
much but want to
>> learn) need a little more consideration on the answers
that are given. All
>> the comments that are given are appreciated. I am thank-
full that there
>are
>> places like this that a person can go to and receive
help. Maybe I better
>> start all over from the beginning. I just bought a new
80 gig hard drive,
>I
>> wanted to know if I could do a clean install of Win XP
Home, I am
>replacing
>> my old drive (15 gig, running out of room). I have a
Gateway 633 megahertz
>> (?) 512 ram and it was suggested that I install an
update to my bios if
>> there is one available. (Gateway tech support told me I
cannot do a clean
>> install that I must first restore win me) I found on
their web site that
>> there is a update it is about 4 months newer. I
followed all the
>> instructions that are provided, but can't get the disk
to book from a:.
>That
>> is where I am right now. In your option what would you
suggest that I do?
>> "Len Segal" > wrote in message
>> ...
>> > It isn't really criticism, it was "cautionary"! If
you make a mistake
>> > flashing a BIOS, your system will NEVER BOOT AGAIN
(unless you replace
>the
>> > motherboard or BIOS chip)!!
>> >
>> > Flashing a BIOS requires that the person have some
advanced technical
>> > knowledge. You must be CERTAIN that you have the
right BIOS for your
>> > motherboard . . . sounds simple, but I have
personally owned mobos where
>> the
>> > mfr had different BIOS for a Rev. 1.0 mobo vs. Rev.
x.0 mobo and they
>> didn't
>> > make it easy to determine which mobo was which Rev.!
>> >
>> > Also, the actual flash procedure may differ from one
mobo mfr to
>another.
>> > Due to "broken English" (BIOS flashing instructions
were written in
>> Chinese
>> > and poorly translated into English) in the
instructions (there was an
>> > executable ZIP-file BIOS and the actual executable
itself inside the
>> > ZIP-file), I once upon a time ran the wrong
executable, resulting in a
>> > "doorstop" . . . and I've successfully flashed the
BIOS hundreds of
>times.
>> >
>> > So, the advice on finding someone who has good
technical knowledge here
>> was
>> > not intended to be criticism, but to make sure that
you didn't cause
>> "fatal
>> > damage" to your computer. Consider flashing BIOS
like "brain surgery"
>(of
>> > your computer), something that you really need to
know what you are
>doing
>> > before tackling the task to ensure that the "patient"
survives.
>> >
>> > --
>> >
>> > Regards,
>> > Len Segal, MCP
>> > Microsoft - MVP
>> > --------------
>> > My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce
SPAM Email.
>> > NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support
questions,
>> > please post questions in newsgroup.
>> >
>> > "Walt & Fran" > wrote in
message
>> > ...
>> > > Thank you for the valuable information and not
criticism for not
>knowing
>> > > what to do.
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > ---
>> > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
>> > Checked by AVG anti-virus system
(http://www.grisoft.com).
>> > Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release
Date: 4/24/2003
>> >
>> >
>>
>>
>
>
>.
>

[walt & fran]

That was my post from w filipowicz, I am at work now. I
work afternoons but can still reply.
>-----Original Message-----
>Walt, did your Gateway come with Windows ME installed?
What operating system
>is on the machine now? Do you have a retail XP Home disk,
and if so is it an
>upgrade or full version? If we know this I think we can
help you.
>
>--
>Steve C. Ray
>Replace "mail" with "36db"
>"Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
...
>> I thank you for the advice, I am new to these boards
don't have much free
>> time and looking for help to do these kinds of things
myself. I am not
>that
>> smart about computers or the way they work. That is why
I am seeking help.
>I
>> just feel that for people like me (ones that don't know
much but want to
>> learn) need a little more consideration on the answers
that are given. All
>> the comments that are given are appreciated. I am thank-
full that there
>are
>> places like this that a person can go to and receive
help. Maybe I better
>> start all over from the beginning. I just bought a new
80 gig hard drive,
>I
>> wanted to know if I could do a clean install of Win XP
Home, I am
>replacing
>> my old drive (15 gig, running out of room). I have a
Gateway 633 megahertz
>> (?) 512 ram and it was suggested that I install an
update to my bios if
>> there is one available. (Gateway tech support told me I
cannot do a clean
>> install that I must first restore win me) I found on
their web site that
>> there is a update it is about 4 months newer. I
followed all the
>> instructions that are provided, but can't get the disk
to book from a:.
>That
>> is where I am right now. In your option what would you
suggest that I do?
>> "Len Segal" > wrote in message
>> ...
>> > It isn't really criticism, it was "cautionary"! If
you make a mistake
>> > flashing a BIOS, your system will NEVER BOOT AGAIN
(unless you replace
>the
>> > motherboard or BIOS chip)!!
>> >
>> > Flashing a BIOS requires that the person have some
advanced technical
>> > knowledge. You must be CERTAIN that you have the
right BIOS for your
>> > motherboard . . . sounds simple, but I have
personally owned mobos where
>> the
>> > mfr had different BIOS for a Rev. 1.0 mobo vs. Rev.
x.0 mobo and they
>> didn't
>> > make it easy to determine which mobo was which Rev.!
>> >
>> > Also, the actual flash procedure may differ from one
mobo mfr to
>another.
>> > Due to "broken English" (BIOS flashing instructions
were written in
>> Chinese
>> > and poorly translated into English) in the
instructions (there was an
>> > executable ZIP-file BIOS and the actual executable
itself inside the
>> > ZIP-file), I once upon a time ran the wrong
executable, resulting in a
>> > "doorstop" . . . and I've successfully flashed the
BIOS hundreds of
>times.
>> >
>> > So, the advice on finding someone who has good
technical knowledge here
>> was
>> > not intended to be criticism, but to make sure that
you didn't cause
>> "fatal
>> > damage" to your computer. Consider flashing BIOS
like "brain surgery"
>(of
>> > your computer), something that you really need to
know what you are
>doing
>> > before tackling the task to ensure that the "patient"
survives.
>> >
>> > --
>> >
>> > Regards,
>> > Len Segal, MCP
>> > Microsoft - MVP
>> > --------------
>> > My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce
SPAM Email.
>> > NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support
questions,
>> > please post questions in newsgroup.
>> >
>> > "Walt & Fran" > wrote in
message
>> > ...
>> > > Thank you for the valuable information and not
criticism for not
>knowing
>> > > what to do.
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > ---
>> > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
>> > Checked by AVG anti-virus system
(http://www.grisoft.com).
>> > Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release
Date: 4/24/2003
>> >
>> >
>>
>>
>
>
>.
>

[Steve C. Ray]

OK, if I understand, what you want to do now is install the new hard drive
with a clean install of XP. You DO NOT have to install any other Windows
first.
1. Shut down your computer and replace the old hard drive with the new one.
2.Put the XP disk in your CD drive.
3. Start the computer and go into your BIOS (If you don't know look at your
Gateway Manual) and set the CD-ROM as the first boot device, save and exit
BIOS.
4. The computer will boot from the XP disk. Follow instructions to install
XP, including formatting drive.
5. At some point setup will ask for a qualifying disk, insert your 98 disk.
6. After installation you will have to reload all updates.
7. If you want, you can install your old hard drive for additional storage.
8. If you don't understand this, or don't know how to set up partitions or
format DON'T start this process until you know.
9. You have been asking about upgrading your BIOS. If XP is working well now
don't worry about that at this time. If you feel you need to upgrade it, I
can tell you how after you have the new drive installed and working. Don't
try to do everything at once.

Hope this helps you - Good luck


--
Steve C. Ray
Replace "mail" with "36db"
"w filipowicz" > wrote in message
...
> OK, yes my Gateway came with ME installed I have the
> restoration disks for that. I bought the upgrade to Win XP
> home through Gateway but it has the Microsoft logo on it
> with the product key #'s (I guess that is what you call it)
> I am currently running XP home. I do have a Win disk of 98
> that I was going to use for the qualifing previous if my
> restore disks do not or will not work.
> >-----Original Message-----
> >Walt, did your Gateway come with Windows ME installed?
> What operating system
> >is on the machine now? Do you have a retail XP Home disk,
> and if so is it an
> >upgrade or full version? If we know this I think we can
> help you.
> >
> >--
> >Steve C. Ray
> >Replace "mail" with "36db"
> >"Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
> ...
> >> I thank you for the advice, I am new to these boards
> don't have much free
> >> time and looking for help to do these kinds of things
> myself. I am not
> >that
> >> smart about computers or the way they work. That is why
> I am seeking help.
> >I
> >> just feel that for people like me (ones that don't know
> much but want to
> >> learn) need a little more consideration on the answers
> that are given. All
> >> the comments that are given are appreciated. I am thank-
> full that there
> >are
> >> places like this that a person can go to and receive
> help. Maybe I better
> >> start all over from the beginning. I just bought a new
> 80 gig hard drive,
> >I
> >> wanted to know if I could do a clean install of Win XP
> Home, I am
> >replacing
> >> my old drive (15 gig, running out of room). I have a
> Gateway 633 megahertz
> >> (?) 512 ram and it was suggested that I install an
> update to my bios if
> >> there is one available. (Gateway tech support told me I
> cannot do a clean
> >> install that I must first restore win me) I found on
> their web site that
> >> there is a update it is about 4 months newer. I
> followed all the
> >> instructions that are provided, but can't get the disk
> to book from a:.
> >That
> >> is where I am right now. In your option what would you
> suggest that I do?
> >> "Len Segal" > wrote in message
> >> ...
> >> > It isn't really criticism, it was "cautionary"! If
> you make a mistake
> >> > flashing a BIOS, your system will NEVER BOOT AGAIN
> (unless you replace
> >the
> >> > motherboard or BIOS chip)!!
> >> >
> >> > Flashing a BIOS requires that the person have some
> advanced technical
> >> > knowledge. You must be CERTAIN that you have the
> right BIOS for your
> >> > motherboard . . . sounds simple, but I have
> personally owned mobos where
> >> the
> >> > mfr had different BIOS for a Rev. 1.0 mobo vs. Rev.
> x.0 mobo and they
> >> didn't
> >> > make it easy to determine which mobo was which Rev.!
> >> >
> >> > Also, the actual flash procedure may differ from one
> mobo mfr to
> >another.
> >> > Due to "broken English" (BIOS flashing instructions
> were written in
> >> Chinese
> >> > and poorly translated into English) in the
> instructions (there was an
> >> > executable ZIP-file BIOS and the actual executable
> itself inside the
> >> > ZIP-file), I once upon a time ran the wrong
> executable, resulting in a
> >> > "doorstop" . . . and I've successfully flashed the
> BIOS hundreds of
> >times.
> >> >
> >> > So, the advice on finding someone who has good
> technical knowledge here
> >> was
> >> > not intended to be criticism, but to make sure that
> you didn't cause
> >> "fatal
> >> > damage" to your computer. Consider flashing BIOS
> like "brain surgery"
> >(of
> >> > your computer), something that you really need to
> know what you are
> >doing
> >> > before tackling the task to ensure that the "patient"
> survives.
> >> >
> >> > --
> >> >
> >> > Regards,
> >> > Len Segal, MCP
> >> > Microsoft - MVP
> >> > --------------
> >> > My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce
> SPAM Email.
> >> > NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support
> questions,
> >> > please post questions in newsgroup.
> >> >
> >> > "Walt & Fran" > wrote in
> message
> >> > ...
> >> > > Thank you for the valuable information and not
> criticism for not
> >knowing
> >> > > what to do.
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > ---
> >> > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
> >> > Checked by AVG anti-virus system
> (http://www.grisoft.com).
> >> > Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release
> Date: 4/24/2003
> >> >
> >> >
> >>
> >>
> >
> >
> >.
> >

[walt & fran]

I appreciate the help. The reason I was concerned about
the BIOS is that I just thought that if there are update
to anything about or on the computer that it is best to
keep it as up to date as possible. I have been to Michael
Stevens site and down loaded the instructions on clean
install. I have a limited amount of time and am trying to
do as much as possible with the time that I have. If there
is anything more that you think I need to know before I
start please let me know.
>-----Original Message-----
>OK, if I understand, what you want to do now is install
the new hard drive
>with a clean install of XP. You DO NOT have to install
any other Windows
>first.
>1. Shut down your computer and replace the old hard drive
with the new one.
>2.Put the XP disk in your CD drive.
>3. Start the computer and go into your BIOS (If you don't
know look at your
>Gateway Manual) and set the CD-ROM as the first boot
device, save and exit
>BIOS.
>4. The computer will boot from the XP disk. Follow
instructions to install
>XP, including formatting drive.
>5. At some point setup will ask for a qualifying disk,
insert your 98 disk.
>6. After installation you will have to reload all updates.
>7. If you want, you can install your old hard drive for
additional storage.
>8. If you don't understand this, or don't know how to set
up partitions or
>format DON'T start this process until you know.
>9. You have been asking about upgrading your BIOS. If XP
is working well now
>don't worry about that at this time. If you feel you need
to upgrade it, I
>can tell you how after you have the new drive installed
and working. Don't
>try to do everything at once.
>
>Hope this helps you - Good luck
>
>
>--
>Steve C. Ray
>Replace "mail" with "36db"
>"w filipowicz" > wrote in message
...
>> OK, yes my Gateway came with ME installed I have the
>> restoration disks for that. I bought the upgrade to Win
XP
>> home through Gateway but it has the Microsoft logo on it
>> with the product key #'s (I guess that is what you call
it)
>> I am currently running XP home. I do have a Win disk of
98
>> that I was going to use for the qualifing previous if my
>> restore disks do not or will not work.
>> >-----Original Message-----
>> >Walt, did your Gateway come with Windows ME installed?
>> What operating system
>> >is on the machine now? Do you have a retail XP Home
disk,
>> and if so is it an
>> >upgrade or full version? If we know this I think we can
>> help you.
>> >
>> >--
>> >Steve C. Ray
>> >Replace "mail" with "36db"
>> >"Walt & Fran" > wrote in message
>> ...
>> >> I thank you for the advice, I am new to these boards
>> don't have much free
>> >> time and looking for help to do these kinds of things
>> myself. I am not
>> >that
>> >> smart about computers or the way they work. That is
why
>> I am seeking help.
>> >I
>> >> just feel that for people like me (ones that don't
know
>> much but want to
>> >> learn) need a little more consideration on the
answers
>> that are given. All
>> >> the comments that are given are appreciated. I am
thank-
>> full that there
>> >are
>> >> places like this that a person can go to and receive
>> help. Maybe I better
>> >> start all over from the beginning. I just bought a
new
>> 80 gig hard drive,
>> >I
>> >> wanted to know if I could do a clean install of Win
XP
>> Home, I am
>> >replacing
>> >> my old drive (15 gig, running out of room). I have a
>> Gateway 633 megahertz
>> >> (?) 512 ram and it was suggested that I install an
>> update to my bios if
>> >> there is one available. (Gateway tech support told
me I
>> cannot do a clean
>> >> install that I must first restore win me) I found on
>> their web site that
>> >> there is a update it is about 4 months newer. I
>> followed all the
>> >> instructions that are provided, but can't get the
disk
>> to book from a:.
>> >That
>> >> is where I am right now. In your option what would
you
>> suggest that I do?
>> >> "Len Segal" > wrote in message
>> >> ...
>> >> > It isn't really criticism, it was "cautionary"! If
>> you make a mistake
>> >> > flashing a BIOS, your system will NEVER BOOT AGAIN
>> (unless you replace
>> >the
>> >> > motherboard or BIOS chip)!!
>> >> >
>> >> > Flashing a BIOS requires that the person have some
>> advanced technical
>> >> > knowledge. You must be CERTAIN that you have the
>> right BIOS for your
>> >> > motherboard . . . sounds simple, but I have
>> personally owned mobos where
>> >> the
>> >> > mfr had different BIOS for a Rev. 1.0 mobo vs. Rev.
>> x.0 mobo and they
>> >> didn't
>> >> > make it easy to determine which mobo was which
Rev.!
>> >> >
>> >> > Also, the actual flash procedure may differ from
one
>> mobo mfr to
>> >another.
>> >> > Due to "broken English" (BIOS flashing instructions
>> were written in
>> >> Chinese
>> >> > and poorly translated into English) in the
>> instructions (there was an
>> >> > executable ZIP-file BIOS and the actual executable
>> itself inside the
>> >> > ZIP-file), I once upon a time ran the wrong
>> executable, resulting in a
>> >> > "doorstop" . . . and I've successfully flashed the
>> BIOS hundreds of
>> >times.
>> >> >
>> >> > So, the advice on finding someone who has good
>> technical knowledge here
>> >> was
>> >> > not intended to be criticism, but to make sure that
>> you didn't cause
>> >> "fatal
>> >> > damage" to your computer. Consider flashing BIOS
>> like "brain surgery"
>> >(of
>> >> > your computer), something that you really need to
>> know what you are
>> >doing
>> >> > before tackling the task to ensure that
the "patient"
>> survives.
>> >> >
>> >> > --
>> >> >
>> >> > Regards,
>> >> > Len Segal, MCP
>> >> > Microsoft - MVP
>> >> > --------------
>> >> > My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce
>> SPAM Email.
>> >> > NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email
support
>> questions,
>> >> > please post questions in newsgroup.
>> >> >
>> >> > "Walt & Fran" > wrote in
>> message
>> >> > ...
>> >> > > Thank you for the valuable information and not
>> criticism for not
>> >knowing
>> >> > > what to do.
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> > ---
>> >> > Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
>> >> > Checked by AVG anti-virus system
>> (http://www.grisoft.com).
>> >> > Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release
>> Date: 4/24/2003
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >>
>> >>
>> >
>> >
>> >.
>> >
>
>
>.
>

[Len Segal]

Steve,

His current BIOS may not support an 80GB HDD. That might be motivating him
to upgrade BIOS before the install. Of course, we have no way of knowing if
even the BIOS upgrade will allow the mobo to work with an 80GB natively.

Walt - call Gateway Tech Supt and ask them what the max HDD size that your
system will support, BEFORE tackling anything else.

--

Regards,
Len Segal, MCP
Microsoft - MVP
--------------
My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM Email.
NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support questions,
please post questions in newsgroup.

"Steve C. Ray" > wrote in message
...
> OK, if I understand, what you want to do now is install the new hard drive
> with a clean install of XP. You DO NOT have to install any other Windows
> first.
> 1. Shut down your computer and replace the old hard drive with the new
one.
> 2.Put the XP disk in your CD drive.
> 3. Start the computer and go into your BIOS (If you don't know look at
your
> Gateway Manual) and set the CD-ROM as the first boot device, save and exit
> BIOS.
> 4. The computer will boot from the XP disk. Follow instructions to install
> XP, including formatting drive.
> 5. At some point setup will ask for a qualifying disk, insert your 98
disk.
> 6. After installation you will have to reload all updates.
> 7. If you want, you can install your old hard drive for additional
storage.
> 8. If you don't understand this, or don't know how to set up partitions
or
> format DON'T start this process until you know.
> 9. You have been asking about upgrading your BIOS. If XP is working well
now
> don't worry about that at this time. If you feel you need to upgrade it, I
> can tell you how after you have the new drive installed and working. Don't
> try to do everything at once.
>
> Hope this helps you - Good luck
>
>
> --
> Steve C. Ray



---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 4/24/2003

[walt @ fran]

I'll call them and find out, will let you know what they
say. (they are also the ones that told me I cannot do a
clean install!((under not circumstances)).
>-----Original Message-----
>Steve,
>
>His current BIOS may not support an 80GB HDD. That might
be motivating him
>to upgrade BIOS before the install. Of course, we have no
way of knowing if
>even the BIOS upgrade will allow the mobo to work with an
80GB natively.
>
>Walt - call Gateway Tech Supt and ask them what the max
HDD size that your
>system will support, BEFORE tackling anything else.
>
>--
>
>Regards,
>Len Segal, MCP
>Microsoft - MVP
>--------------
>My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM
Email.
>NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support
questions,
>please post questions in newsgroup.
>
>"Steve C. Ray" > wrote in message
...
>> OK, if I understand, what you want to do now is install
the new hard drive
>> with a clean install of XP. You DO NOT have to install
any other Windows
>> first.
>> 1. Shut down your computer and replace the old hard
drive with the new
>one.
>> 2.Put the XP disk in your CD drive.
>> 3. Start the computer and go into your BIOS (If you
don't know look at
>your
>> Gateway Manual) and set the CD-ROM as the first boot
device, save and exit
>> BIOS.
>> 4. The computer will boot from the XP disk. Follow
instructions to install
>> XP, including formatting drive.
>> 5. At some point setup will ask for a qualifying disk,
insert your 98
>disk.
>> 6. After installation you will have to reload all
updates.
>> 7. If you want, you can install your old hard drive for
additional
>storage.
>> 8. If you don't understand this, or don't know how to
set up partitions
>or
>> format DON'T start this process until you know.
>> 9. You have been asking about upgrading your BIOS. If
XP is working well
>now
>> don't worry about that at this time. If you feel you
need to upgrade it, I
>> can tell you how after you have the new drive installed
and working. Don't
>> try to do everything at once.
>>
>> Hope this helps you - Good luck
>>
>>
>> --
>> Steve C. Ray
>
>
>
>---
>Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
>Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
>Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
4/24/2003
>
>
>.
>

[walt & fran]

I called Gateway, but I have to be at my computer and get
to the BIOS screen so they know what version is currently
on the system and let me know if it will support the 80
gig hard drive. Said it probably will but will check to
make sure. Will have to do that in the morning because I
am at work right now (work afternoons). Will find out and
let you know ASAP.
>-----Original Message-----
>Steve,
>
>His current BIOS may not support an 80GB HDD. That might
be motivating him
>to upgrade BIOS before the install. Of course, we have no
way of knowing if
>even the BIOS upgrade will allow the mobo to work with an
80GB natively.
>
>Walt - call Gateway Tech Supt and ask them what the max
HDD size that your
>system will support, BEFORE tackling anything else.
>
>--
>
>Regards,
>Len Segal, MCP
>Microsoft - MVP
>--------------
>My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM
Email.
>NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support
questions,
>please post questions in newsgroup.
>
>"Steve C. Ray" > wrote in message
...
>> OK, if I understand, what you want to do now is install
the new hard drive
>> with a clean install of XP. You DO NOT have to install
any other Windows
>> first.
>> 1. Shut down your computer and replace the old hard
drive with the new
>one.
>> 2.Put the XP disk in your CD drive.
>> 3. Start the computer and go into your BIOS (If you
don't know look at
>your
>> Gateway Manual) and set the CD-ROM as the first boot
device, save and exit
>> BIOS.
>> 4. The computer will boot from the XP disk. Follow
instructions to install
>> XP, including formatting drive.
>> 5. At some point setup will ask for a qualifying disk,
insert your 98
>disk.
>> 6. After installation you will have to reload all
updates.
>> 7. If you want, you can install your old hard drive for
additional
>storage.
>> 8. If you don't understand this, or don't know how to
set up partitions
>or
>> format DON'T start this process until you know.
>> 9. You have been asking about upgrading your BIOS. If
XP is working well
>now
>> don't worry about that at this time. If you feel you
need to upgrade it, I
>> can tell you how after you have the new drive installed
and working. Don't
>> try to do everything at once.
>>
>> Hope this helps you - Good luck
>>
>>
>> --
>> Steve C. Ray
>
>
>
>---
>Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
>Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
>Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
4/24/2003
>
>
>.
>

[Len Segal]

Walt,

Yes, I know! I almost commented about their competency, but decided not to
at the time. <g>

I purchased 4 Gateways from 1990 to 1993 and had my problems with their Tech
Supt until I was able to escalate it up very very high and from then on I
only dealt with people who really knew their stuff.

This should be a real easy question for them, let's hope that whatever they
tell you is correct.

--

Regards,
Len Segal, MCP
Microsoft - MVP
--------------
My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM Email.
NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support questions,
please post questions in newsgroup.

"walt @ fran" > wrote in message
...
> I'll call them and find out, will let you know what they
> say. (they are also the ones that told me I cannot do a
> clean install!((under not circumstances)).
> >-----Original Message-----
> >Steve,
> >
> >His current BIOS may not support an 80GB HDD. That might
> be motivating him
> >to upgrade BIOS before the install. Of course, we have no
> way of knowing if
> >even the BIOS upgrade will allow the mobo to work with an
> 80GB natively.
> >
> >Walt - call Gateway Tech Supt and ask them what the max
> HDD size that your
> >system will support, BEFORE tackling anything else.
> >
> >--
> >
> >Regards,
> >Len Segal, MCP
> >Microsoft - MVP
> >--------------
> >My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM
> Email.
> >NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support
> questions,
> >please post questions in newsgroup.



---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 4/24/2003

[walt & fran]

I want to thank everyone for there help, I will get back
to you as soon as I can.
>-----Original Message-----
>Walt,
>
>Yes, I know! I almost commented about their competency,
but decided not to
>at the time. <g>
>
>I purchased 4 Gateways from 1990 to 1993 and had my
problems with their Tech
>Supt until I was able to escalate it up very very high
and from then on I
>only dealt with people who really knew their stuff.
>
>This should be a real easy question for them, let's hope
that whatever they
>tell you is correct.
>
>--
>
>Regards,
>Len Segal, MCP
>Microsoft - MVP
>--------------
>My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM
Email.
>NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support
questions,
>please post questions in newsgroup.
>
>"walt @ fran" > wrote in message
...
>> I'll call them and find out, will let you know what they
>> say. (they are also the ones that told me I cannot do a
>> clean install!((under not circumstances)).
>> >-----Original Message-----
>> >Steve,
>> >
>> >His current BIOS may not support an 80GB HDD. That
might
>> be motivating him
>> >to upgrade BIOS before the install. Of course, we have
no
>> way of knowing if
>> >even the BIOS upgrade will allow the mobo to work with
an
>> 80GB natively.
>> >
>> >Walt - call Gateway Tech Supt and ask them what the max
>> HDD size that your
>> >system will support, BEFORE tackling anything else.
>> >
>> >--
>> >
>> >Regards,
>> >Len Segal, MCP
>> >Microsoft - MVP
>> >--------------
>> >My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM
>> Email.
>> >NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support
>> questions,
>> >please post questions in newsgroup.
>
>
>
>---
>Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
>Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
>Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date:
4/24/2003
>
>
>.
>

[Walt & Fran]

Just got off the phone with Gateway. They say that I have the latest BIOS on
board. Don't need to update. Can't tell me why there is another version on
their site. Whatever they say that this version that I have supports XP (I
know that I have it loaded now) and it should support the new hard drive. So
that is where I am now.
"Len Segal" > wrote in message
...
> Walt,
>
> Yes, I know! I almost commented about their competency, but decided not to
> at the time. <g>
>
> I purchased 4 Gateways from 1990 to 1993 and had my problems with their
Tech
> Supt until I was able to escalate it up very very high and from then on I
> only dealt with people who really knew their stuff.
>
> This should be a real easy question for them, let's hope that whatever
they
> tell you is correct.
>
> --
>
> Regards,
> Len Segal, MCP
> Microsoft - MVP
> --------------
> My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM Email.
> NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support questions,
> please post questions in newsgroup.
>
> "walt @ fran" > wrote in message
> ...
> > I'll call them and find out, will let you know what they
> > say. (they are also the ones that told me I cannot do a
> > clean install!((under not circumstances)).
> > >-----Original Message-----
> > >Steve,
> > >
> > >His current BIOS may not support an 80GB HDD. That might
> > be motivating him
> > >to upgrade BIOS before the install. Of course, we have no
> > way of knowing if
> > >even the BIOS upgrade will allow the mobo to work with an
> > 80GB natively.
> > >
> > >Walt - call Gateway Tech Supt and ask them what the max
> > HDD size that your
> > >system will support, BEFORE tackling anything else.
> > >
> > >--
> > >
> > >Regards,
> > >Len Segal, MCP
> > >Microsoft - MVP
> > >--------------
> > >My reply address is intentionally wrong to reduce SPAM
> > Email.
> > >NOTE: We do not respond to unsolicited Email support
> > questions,
> > >please post questions in newsgroup.
>
>
>
> ---
> Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
> Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
> Version: 6.0.476 / Virus Database: 273 - Release Date: 4/24/2003
>
>

[Michael Stevens]

Steve C. Ray wrote:
> I'm not putting you down, but it is very obvious that you don't know
> even the basics. Please get a professional or someone who is
> knowledgeable to help you before you destroy your computer.
>


He was following the directions on the Gateway web site and it says to use a
BLANK FORMATTED floppy, not to use a bootable floppy. The files are
extracted to the c:\cabs\<biosupdate>folder and the files are then to be
COPIED to the floppy. Walt has done exactly that and it is not working for
some reason. I created a floppy using the Gateway instructions and it booted
and started the bios flash. It halted when it saw it was not the right bios,
but it did work. He has set the floppy to boot as first device. I don't know
why it won't work, but it is not because he doesn't know what he is doing.
--

Michael Stevens MS-MVP XP

http://michaelstevenstech.com