X61s: Trying to flash new bios (2.16) - problems

[iamdmc]

I'm trying to update my BIOS from 2.13 to 2.16, but I'm having some problems.

Problem 1: I'm running 64-bit Windows, so I can't use the windows-based flash utility to flash the bios

Problem 2: I'm using an external (USB) DVD drive to try to flash the BIOS from a CD (using the ISO from the Lenovo website). The drive is bootable, but I get errors like "NO DRIVER INSTALLED", "NO CD DRIVE", etc. I can only assume that Lenovo wants me to buy one of their external DVD drives to flash the bios.

Other than installing 32-bit Vista (or XP) - Any ideas?

Thanks!

[Alexiskass]

make a second partition (10GB not more) with the computer management (in vista) and install (dual boot) trial vista x32bit.

make the upgrade via the program.

then through the vista x64bit delete the partion (10GB) and merge it.

restart the pc with vista dvd and make: fix problems/boot.

i think this will help.

if you try the above make sure you have a complete backup (image) of your disk (before partitioning)

[tinue]

Maybe this helps: http://www.vistajuice.com/2007/02/solut ... e_bios.php
Regards, Martin

[iamdmc]

Why wouldn't the bootable ISO burned to a CD and then used with a bootable USB-connected external DVD drive work?

Moreover, why doesn't it?

[erik]

the BIOS updater needs a direct ATAPI connection.   the only way to do this is via an internal HDD or by using the update on CD/DVD in an optical drive in the X6 ultrabase.

somewhere on the BIOS update page is a note saying that CD images must be mounted in the ultrabase and that USB drives won't work.

imagine flashing a BIOS and accidentally unplugging a USB device.   you'd be guaranteed to brick the system.

[bananaman]

Ouch, that bites!

Vista 64 is officially supported on the X61.

Why isn't the Windows BIOS utility supported?

When you buy an X61 with Vista 64, there is no warning that BIOS upgrades require the UltraBase with a CD/DVD burner.