Member Avatar for Morgan25

Im trying to install drivers for my motherboard () ASUS P4PE. It's about 3 years old. I downloaded a BIOS update, but the file type is .awd.
IMy PC says i dont have a program to open with it. Would anyone have any clues as to what i should do to install this driver?? :-| , :o

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by caperjack

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As ’s download shows, the .awd file in this thread is firmware for the motherboard BIOS — not a Windows driver — and the replies from and correctly warn that it must be written to the ROM with a flasher utility and that a failed flash can make the board unusable. The practical gap in the replies is a safe, step-by-step workflow and simple recovery options.

  • Verify exact board ID and PCB revision printed on the board, and confirm the BIOS filename/release notes match that exact revision.
  • Read any included README or flash instructions before doing anything. Use the manufacturer-supplied flasher when possible; many vendors provide both a Windows updater and a DOS flasher. The DOS method is usually safer because it is less likely to be interrupted by the OS.
  • Prepare bootable media (floppy or bootable DOS USB) and copy the flasher and the .awd file. If the vendor gives checksums, verify them. Back up the current BIOS if the flasher supports it.
  • Minimize risk: disconnect non-essential drives/peripherals, disable power-saving features, ensure a stable mains supply (use a UPS if available), and do not interrupt the process once started.
  • Follow the exact flasher commands from the README and wait until the utility reports completion; then reboot and, if recommended, clear CMOS and reconfigure settings.

If a flash fails, check the motherboard manual for any "crisis recovery" or BIOS-restore jumper/method. As noted, a corrupted BIOS can theoretically be fixed by reprogramming or replacing the ROM chip, but that is often more effort and cost than replacing the board. Given the real risk, update the BIOS only when the new version addresses a specific problem or adds necessary support.

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Member Avatar for Ignite

Ive never heard of anything like that good luck with it.

Member Avatar for Laser

Im trying to install drivers for my motherboard () ASUS P4PE. It's about 3 years old. I downloaded a BIOS update, but the file type is .awd.
IMy PC says i dont have a program to open with it. Would anyone have any clues as to what i should do to install this driver?? :-| , :o

It's an image file for Award BIOS. Instructions Here

I wouldn't recommend updating the bios unless the new version has a fix for a problem you're experiencing. That's just my opinion.

Member Avatar for Catweazle

Agreed. the BIOS update is NOT a driver!

It's an update to the system BIOS, it needs to be installed using a software tool, and if there is a problem while its being installed you can find that your PC may never work again! Danger, BEWARE!


This is the reason, actually, that most BIOS update downloads are nor self-executing files, but need a separate installer tool ;)

Member Avatar for caperjack

a bad flash is fixable, you would need to buy a new bios chip with the correct Data on it for that board !!don't know were you would buy one !!

Member Avatar for Catweazle

Fixable in theory, caperjack. In reality you'd expend so much time, effort and possibly even money to locate a replacement BIOS chip and have it shipped to you that it would be a better alternative to simply replace the motherboard :)

Member Avatar for caperjack

Yeah, but a whole lot of smoke coming from the chip when it was the wrong one was intersting .and they do get really hot!:) heehee

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