GA-790XT-USB3, F2, RAM matter & BIOS Update

[alex1111]

Hello,

a)I just read the matter about RAM 1600mhz and AM3 socket, and in my pc I have 2 modules of 2gb RAM 1600mhz in my
GA790 with AM3 shocket, and AMD Phenon II x4. Is there any way i can reduce the 1600mhz to 1333mhz; In general, is
there any way to protect my pc from future problems; I already have it for 9 months with no problems until now. Also I
intend to add a module of 4gb RAM too...
b)I have the BIOS F2 version first release. Is it necessary to update my BIOS; If yes what i must do; To update with
F3 and F4 version first, or I can go immediately at F5a version, which is the last one;;;
 (Also i will go to W7 x64bit vrs soon, now I have the 32bit version)

Any help I really appreciate it.
Thank u!

[autotech]

Use Qflash and flash it to the latest shouldnt be a problem. In bios set the multiplyer down one notch to get to 1333. Generally 1333 with better timings is faster than 1600 running at 9-9-9-24 for most people. You can use cpuz to check correct timngs it is a free download. I must say i think you will be happier with windows 64 bit as most known bugs have been worked out. I have ran it since beta and had ultimate since oct 5th of the year it came out.

Welcome to the forums any more questions feel free to ask.

[alex1111]

Thank u for the answer, very helpful!!!
So now all ok with 1333mhz matter...But i still have problem with update. I downloaded the correct file from gigabyte.com
Then I copy it to my usb external drive. Then I restart and enter Qflash. The utility sees the external drive but not the file itself!!!
What I have to do; I don't have floppy disk drive. Also, the same happen when I entered Qflash from BIOS setup.

Thank u for your help!

[teknology9]

Hello,

Check to see if the drive is formatted to FAT 32, it might be a good idea to have a separate USB pen drive to contain the various BIOS versions. I'm sure a Moderator will either confirm or correct me on this.

Teknology9

[Dark Mantis]

Hi

You can jump directly to the last version of the BIOS as you are not going a long way. If it was four or more versions away I would advise doing it in steps but as yours isn't one update should be fine.

Smaller USB pendrives tend to be less troublesome when using as BIOS flash file holders. Make sure that you have unzipped the file before trying to do the update. That might be why you can see the drive but not the file.