When I built my computer, the ABit BD7II mainboard did not have drivers for USB 2.0. ABit now do so, but require as well a BIOS flash to a higher rev. I note that on their site there is a recommendation to re-install Windows too (I have XP), as a result of the BIOS upgrade.I think I'll try not re-installing the OS first :), anyone ever had to do that?. I've flashed BIOS before and never had to. However, my question is regarding the drivers the sound chip and NIC, both imbedded; and the Intel drivers I have also installed. Should I need to consider re-installing these? There's not mention on the ABit site about them. Then again, I've never before had imbedded hardware on the mainboard.Thanks for any advice, or general words of experience in flashing BIOS (I always hold my breath when I do this!).Thanks,Bruce.

The BIOS is only going to do lower level improvements to your system. Think of the drivers as higher level programs that interfaces with DOS or Windows. Those drivers are not even started until you load DOS or Windows.You will, of course, need to clear your MOBO CMOS memory, either with a jumper or other means (read the MOBO manual). Make sure you disconnect the power supply cable to your MOBO, when clearing the CMOS plus the jumper.You will need to set all the parameters in BIOS so make sure you open BIOS before you flash BIOS and either write down ALL the settings or open the MOBO manual to the BIOS section and mark/amend the settings listed in the manual.The only problem about settings will be if they add/amend new settings in the new BIOS. Its a best guess on those!!:-lolThe recommendation to reinstall OS may be due to the updates in functionality of the MOBO, i.e., USB 2.0, ACPI, etc. You can try not updating first to see what happens. Next try restoring/reinstalling by putting your WinXP CD in the drive and follow the instructions. I did that with my daughters computer, ignored the reregistration, and then installed all the Pre-SP1 updates again (would just install SP1 now). Last option would be to reformat and reinstall, however, I think WinXP can do a better job of finding changes and installing them.

Thanks for your reply, and the comments on drivers. etc."and then installed all the Pre-SP1 updates again (would just install SP1 now).."I have SP1 installed. Do you suggest I just re-run the SP1 install again? I'm assuming that the update from the CDROM is now outdated / will not work, due to the SP1 version I'm running?If a refresh of the OS is required, or even a full re-install, what effects do you anticipate I'll see when I re-boot. Maybe just yellow exclamation marks in DM, or worse maybe? (I realize that's an impossible question to answer :) ).Thanks,Bruce.

I did my daughter's computer prior to SP1 release. However, if you have an original WinXP CD and you invoke a repair/reinstall, it will probably remove all the SP1 updates. You will have to reinstall SP1 after you do the repair/reinstall, plus visit the Microsoft Update Website for post-SP1 (pre-SP2 (I see they are now calling them that)) updates to remain current.I didn't notice on ABIT site where it recommended reinstalling the OS. I did see something about the Raid driver which has to be installed during the OS install.I would expect crashes and the contentions in DM. I really do think you are going to have a problem.

Thanks again."I really do think you are going to have a problem"Not what I wanted to hear :), I'll have to figure out if USB 2.0 is worth it- since I don't use much externally.I wonder if I was to be happy with USB 1.x, whether my USB ports would work- I have them disabled in BIOS currently- I might try enabling them without all the BIOS upgrade / USB 2.0 install, and see what happens.Thanks again,Bruce.

Sorry Bruce,Should have been "DON'T". Didn't reread my response!Take a deep breath, hum your mantra, get the heart rate back to normal!That's the way!!!:-lolSorry for the typo!!!

Whew! Thanks!"Take a deep breath, hum your mantra, get the heart rate back to normal!"Here in Boulder, CO, that's what we do well! :)Thanks,Bruce.

All I ever do in CO is breath heavy. Haven't been skiing in about seven years. The wife just showed me a medical conference at Vale in early March 2003, prime time if she can get the hospital to pay for the trip.