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

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				  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 <Fn+F2> to start System Setup.

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

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.