    =

    AST RESEARCH, INC.        TECHNICAL BULLETIN # 1181                 5-12-95

    =

    				  UPDATING ASCENTIA 9XXN SYSTEM BIOS

    This is an informational bulletin.

    The Ascentia 9XXN systems use a flash BIOS which allows the user to update
    the system BIOS from a floppy diskette.  The most recent BIOS can be
    downloaded from AST's BBS ("Systems" file area) unto a high density floppy
    diskette by calling (817) 230-6850.  AST's BBS supports modem speeds up to
    28.8k bps.  AST BIOS files are also posted on:

    CompuServe
    Go ASTSUPPORT

    AST Worldwide Web Site
    http://www.ast.com

    The user may also obtain the latest BIOS by calling AST Spare Parts at
    (800) 727-1278 or the local AST Authorized Service Center.

    Before performing a BIOS update, please note the following:

    DO NOT interrupt the power while updating the BIOS.  Interrupting the power
    may create a fatal error, causing the system to become inoperable once it has
    been turned OFF.  If the power is interrupted, exit System Setup, save all
    work in progress, turn OFF the system, and call the nearest AST Authorized
    Service Center. If the computer is connected to a PowerStation, disconnect it.

    DO NOT attempt a BIOS update without a fully charged battery or with only
    an AC adapter attached.  The battery must be installed and fully charged prior
    to flashing the system with a BIOS update.

    To perform the BIOS update:

    1. Save all work in progress and close all open applications.

    2. Insert the BIOS update diskette into drive A.

    3. Press  to start System Setup.

    4. In the System Setup menu, move the cursor to "Update BIOS" and press
       .

    5. Select "Update BIOS" from the pop-up screen that appears.

    6. Do one of the following:

    	a) Select "Update and save changes" to update the BIOS and save changes
    	   made to System Setup.

    	b) Select "Update without saving changes" to update the BIOS and lose
    	   any changes made to System Setup.

    7. Follow all instructions as they appear on the screen.  When the update is
       successful, the following message will appear:

    	The BIOS update was successful.
    	Press any key to reboot the computer.

    8. Remove the BIOS update diskette from drive A and press any key to
       reboot the system.

    If the BIOS update was not successful, make sure that:
    	You are using the correct BIOS update for your system.
    	The diskette is completely inserted into drive A.
    	The BIOS diskette is not damaged or corrupted.
    	The battery does not need to be replaced.

    NOTE: This information is contained in the Ascentia 910N User's Reference,
    P/N 003131-001 A, page 93.

    SYSTEMS AFFECTED
    AST PART NUMBER AND DESCRIPTION

    All Ascentia 9XXN systems.