lubuntu-desktop team mailing list archive

[Yorvyk <yorvik.ubunto@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:27:21 +0400
amjjawad HOOHAA <amjjawad@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

> 
> I called HP and we managed to fix the problem on DV6 with a BIOS Update. As
> for DV5 one, they couldn't help because it has Linux (Ubuntu 10.04) and I
> have no clue how to update the BIOS while on Linux.
> 
Depending on the manafacturer therare a variety of ways of updating the BIOS.

Some provide a bootable ISO which uses FreeDOS or you may be able to concoct your own using FreeDOS.   http://www.freedos.org/

I've had some success with FlashROM which is available in the repos. http://flashrom.org/

Another option is to temporary install Windows if you have a copy that came with the machine, especially if the manufacturer's site has an automated tool for telling you which updates are required.  Until recently I've been using a '60 day' evaluation copy of WinXP for this purpose if the above doesn't work.  Sadly a lot of recent machines require Vista or Win 7 for this sort of tool.

Even if the BIOS upgrade doesn't mention your problem it may well be worth updating as manufacturers don't always tell you everything the BIOS update resolves.  It may also be useful to look at firmware updates for the hard drive as well.

The other thing to look at is cleaning the vents, heat-sink and fan to ensure good airflow.


-- 
Yorvyk