HOW TO LOCATE THE
BIOS CHIP ON THE MOTHERBOARD
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Before you can replace the bios, you must first locate the bios chip on the motherboard. To inspect the motherboard, you will need to open your computer. We will not attempt to explain how to open your specific computer case as the variety of different machines makes this an impossible task. There are, however, usually four or five screws which secure the removable cover to the base frame and front panel. Be sure you disconnect power before attempting to open your computer's case.

Once the case is removed, you can view the internal components of your computer. The motherboard (so named because smaller boards, like children, are attached) is the main flat assembly inside the case. In a desktop enclosure, the motherboard is mounted to the bottom of the case. In a mini-tower or full size tower the the motherboard is mounted on the side. The bios chip will most likely be a 32 pin chip in a socket (see photo). Older legacy bios chips may be 28 pins however they too are normally installed in a socket. The chip is normally identified with a sticker (paper, silver or gold) which shows the name of the bios company (such as AWARD) plus the version of code contained within the chip. You must be able to clearly locate and view this chip. If necessary, you may need to further disassemble your computer (remove boards, etc.) to gain clear access to the bios chip. The bios chip must be removed from the motherboard in order to reprogram or replace the part.

THE BIOS CHIP HAS CONNECTIONS ON ALL FOUR SIDES

If your bios chip is square with connections on all four sides, it is in a PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) package. If the PLCC part is in a socket, it can be removed and reprogrammed like any other bios. You will require a special tool to remove a PLCC part from its socket. Radio Shack sells these (276-2101). You can also remove the chip with a small jeweler's flat blade screwdrive by carefully prying up the corners a little at a time. If the PLCC part is soldered to the board (see photo) the bios cannot be reprogrammed and the board is rendered useless.

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BadFlash.com thanks Andromeda Research Labs for permitting the use of their pictures and Text.