Did you try to flash the BIOS because you were having problems, or did you want to update it with a newer version? If you were already having problems with your machine, the failure of the BIOS flash may be related to that original issue.

Flash BIOS

I’m not sure what instructions you used, so I’m going to print the basic instructions here. The Acer Aspire has built in BIOS recovery that you can access using a USB stick.

1. Get a USB stick and format it with FAT.
2. Download the latest BIOS from the Acer website.
3. Put the FLASHIT.EXE and the BIOS file in the root directory of the USB stick.
4. Rename that BIOS file Z95IA32.FD. Leave the USB stick in the port.
5. Turn the computer off, making sure that there is a battery and AC adapter connected to it.
6. Press Fn+Esc at the same time. Keeping those pressed, push the power button to turn the computer on.
7. After a few seconds, release Fn+Esc. The power button should be blinking.
8. Press the Power button one time. The computer will start the BIOS flash. Make sure it is not interrupted, or you can really damage your system. The computer will reboot when it is done. The BIOS should be flashed and the settings set back to factory default.

Acer Recovery

I’m really not sure what the original problem was, but you can try Acer Recovery to see if that fixes your issue.

1. Turn on the computer. When you see the Acer BIOS screen (if you can see it at all), hold down Alt+F10. This will start the recovery process.
2. When eRecovery has loaded, choose “Restore to Factory Default Settings”.
3. Choose OK to continue.
4. The recovery process will run and update the data in the C drive.

Other Options

For a bad BIOS flash, many techs recommend crisis disks or downloads that you can find on the Internet. I can’t go all the way and recommend one, but you might want to do some research. Generally, if you have a bad BIOS flash, the best remedy is to contact the manufacturer - you will likely need professional help.

Consider Service if Under Warranty

You should be able to connect an external CD or DVD drive through the USB port and boot from the Windows disks that way. Before getting into those details, you might also consider Kat’s original advice and think about taking your machine in for repair if it is still covered by warranty. Sometimes failure to follow boot sequence instructions are also indicative of a larger problem and, compounded with your installation error might mean your computer has a variety of issues. Rather than trying to stick your finger in the dam, a thorough inspection by an Acer technician will ensure that you receive the value of your investment and can enjoy your notebook in the long term.

Configure the BIOS Sequence to Boot from an External Optical Drive

That said, let’s think about how to connect the external DVD drive and get the notebook to boot from it. There are two methods that you can try to get the computer to boot from the external optical drive but first you should remove it from the USB port and let things rest. You might even want to power your computer down to reset things. Put the Windows disk in the disk reader and reconnect it. Power your computer up. Now, you can either:

1. Press F2 as the computer is booting, as soon as you see the Acer logo on your screen
2. This should open the BIOS setup
3. Choose the Boot Menu
4. Follow the onscreen directions to set the bootable optical disk drive first

OR

1. Press F12 during boot up, as soon as you see the Acer logo
2. From the list that appears, choose USB ODD

Now, choose Exit Saving Changes or press F10 or press Enter to close the boot selection menu. You should now be able to follow the onscreen directions to reinstall your operating system or run the Windows Recovery disk.

Create a Bootable USB Recovery Flash Drive

If you have no luck with this, and your computer refuses to boot from the optical drive, you can create a bootable USB drive, but you will need a Windows Recovery disk and a second computer with an optical disk drive.

1. Put the Recovery disk in the secondary computer’s disk drive
2. Connect a flash drive - with a minimum 1 GB capacity - into the secondary computer’s USB port
3. Follow the directions detailed in the previous example to open the BIOS set up in the secondary computer and configure the ODD as the first device
4. Save the changes and exit the BIOS
5. Wait while the computer boots - you should see a list of options when it is finished
6. Choose install2usb
7. Now, from the list of disk presented, choose the USB drive and click Next
8. Now you have the Windows Recovery program saved on the flash drive - take it to the Aspire One and try again, this time setting the BIOS to the USB drive and try to repair your system this way

Consult with a Remote Assistant

If you have no luck with these steps, you might want to talk to a remote technical assistant who can troubleshoot with you in real time to help get to the root of the problem and determine an appropriate course of action. At Filetonic we recommend the support services available here. I hope this is helpful, good luck!

Take your Hard Drive to a Technician

It’s possible that your hard drive is fried. If your computer is still covered under warranty, you might want to consider taking it in to the dealer for repairs. To make sure that it is the hard drive that is failing, you can consult your computer user’s manual to find the manufacturer, then visit their website and look for a diagnostic tool check the health of the hard disk. Most of the major hard drive manufacturers offer diagnostic utilities that could help you narrow down the possibilities though since the computer won’t boot, this may not be an option.

Boot to Safe Mode

To get your computer up and running you can attempt to boot into Safe Mode. This way, hopefully, you can get access to your system with only minimal programs running, reducing the chances that you will run into problems. Turn your computer off, then turn it on again and start pressing F8. When you see the Advanced Menu screen, use the arrows on your keyboard to choose Safe Mode and confirm your operating system. The next time you boot your computer it will revert to Normal Mode, so there is no need to undo these steps.

Troubleshoot the Power Source and Cord

Another common cause of this kind of problem is a faulty power cord or battery. You can start by troubleshooting the power cord and outlet by plugging something else into the plug and swapping the power cord. You can also remove the battery and try the cord directly to remove the chances of a faulty battery interfering.

Reseat or Replace the CMOS Battery

Inside your computer there is another power source called the CMOS battery that is plugged directly into the motherboard. This battery allows the computer to keep time and other internal processes even when there is no other power source. CMOS batteries have an average life span of about 5 years, so it is also possible that you need to replace it. You can consult your computer’s user’s manual and check how to find and remove the CMOS battery. In some cases, removing the battery and then re-inserting it is enough to give it a new life, so you might want to try this before replacing it.

I hope these ideas are helpful, if you are still stuck, write again and let us know your computer model, operating system, and the results of what you have tried so far and we’ll go from there.

Computer CMOS Batteries

The CMOS battery is your computer’s internal memory and real time clock power source. This battery allows your computer to initialize its boot up procedure and remember the time and date, even when there is no other power source. CMOS batteries typically last between 2 and 10 years, but thankfully they aren’t very difficult to replace. The CMOS battery is round and flat, about the size of a dime, but about twice as thick and will most likely say something like Lithium Battery and a code and voltage on it.

Try to Force the Computer to Recharge the CMOS Battery

The first thing that you can do is try to force the computer to charge the CMOS battery. You can do this by leaving the computer on for about 24 hours then reboot and see if you are still getting an error message.

Locating the CMOS Battery

If it doesn’t work, then you are going to need to open the computer. If you have a PC, lay it on its side before opening. If you have a laptop, turn it over on a flat surface. Make sure that you unplug it from its power source and discharge any static electricity before touching anything inside your computer. Open the case and look for the battery on the motherboard. You might need to use your computer user’s manual to help locate the battery.

Remove, Reseat or Replace the CMOS Battery

Sometimes unseating and reseating the CMOS battery is enough to get things working again, so you could try slipping it out then repositioning it. Otherwise, remove the battery and take it with you to the computer shop to buy a replacement. They are inexpensive, under $20. You should know that, in some cases, CMOS batteries are not removable. If it doesn’t come out easily, or if there isn’t a clip that you can lift to remove it, it is best not to force it. Either take the whole unit into a shop or consult your manual for more information.

Contact Technical Support

If you are going to open your computer and remove components from the motherboard, you might want to contact a remote technician for some real time advice. The tech can go through the steps with you to make sure you are comfortable. We recommend the services available here.

BIOS Error Codes

The codes you describe are BIOS error codes. Each one indicates a problem with a different component of your computer. For example, any BIOS error code from 100 to 199 is related to a system motherboard failure. Specific codes such as 161 within that range further identify the issue (with 161 representing a CMOS battery failure).

The BIOS is a small chip on your computer that contains its own small self-executing program. It is the first program that runs when your computer boots up. BIOS first runs a POST (Power On Self Test), testing all hardware components before loading the operating system. If one of the tests fails, an error code is generated and your computer may or may not continue loading.

Repairing BIOS Error Codes

Obviously, repairing an error code depends on which error code is displayed. For example, if you have error code 161, the CMOS battery failure code, then you would need to replace the CMOS battery. Because different BIOS makers have tweaked the POST codes to suit their own needs, it’s best to refer to the BIOS manufacturer’s list of BIOS error codes to ensure that you are working off a list that matches your computer.

When you receive a BIOS error code, this almost always indicates a problem with hardware rather than software. By deciphering the code, you will have a better idea of where the problem lies. For example, if you know that codes 200-299 indicate a problem with memory, then you know it’s time to troubleshoot those memory chips. One of the chips may be bad or it may simply need to be reseated.

The codes that you listed, 1xx 161 164 2xx 3xx 4xx 5xx 6xx 17xx, are common error codes. Here’s a brief rundown of each:

• 1xx (100-199) - System motherboard problem
• o 161 - CMOS battery failure
• o 164 - Memory system size error
• 2xx (200-299) - Memory problems
• 3xx (300-399) - Keyboard problems
• 4xx (400-499) - Monochrome video problem
• 5xx (500-599) - Color video problem
• 6xx (600-699) - Floppy disk problem
• 17xx (1700-1799) - Hard disk problem

In order to best troubleshoot the error code, let us know the exact code that you are receiving as well as the manufacturer of your BIOS. If you have Windows Vista, you can find out your BIOS details by going to Start and typing “System Information” into the search bar. Click the System Information icon and view the summary.

Beeping Bios

The beeping that you are hearing from your computer at start up is coming from the BIOS - the Basic Input/Output System - when it attempts to POST - Power On Self Test - to launch its basic functions and boot up. The beeps indicate that there is a problem, as I’m sure you’ve realized. One beep during POST is normal, as long as the boot continues.

Dell Beep Codes

The number of beeps signify different meanings for different makes of BIOS chips. There seems to be on ongoing debate among users about whether the 6 beeps you are getting indicate a DRAM problem or a CMOS reset, so we can briefly touch on both possibilities.

Reseat the CMOS Battery

The CMOS battery is the computer’s internal power source that allows the computer to retain the time and other set functions even when it isn’t getting any other power supply. CMOS batteries do run out of steam, so yours might need to be replaces, but more often than not, removing it and reseating it is enough to jump start your system. The battery you are looking for is round and thin, here’s how to find it.

1. Turn your PC off, if it isn’t already, and unplug it from the wall.
2. Lie the computer down and open the computer casing and take caution to discharge any static electricity before touching anything
3. Find the small round battery and gently remove it without forcing anything - if you have trouble locating it, use your computer’s user guide for your model instructions
4. Now you can take the battery to the shop and purchase a new one of the same model number, or try to reseat the battery
5. Make sure the battery is firmly inserted, with the positive + side showing - or as instructed in the manual
6. Close the computer and try it again.

Check the Chips and Cards

The other possibility is the DRAM situation. In this case, there might be something wrong with the system board, or too much dust accumulated in the computer. To deal with it, open the computer and check the boards and the contacts. If there is a lot of dust, you can use canned air to gently clean it. Vacuums are not the way to go as the electric power can seriously mess with your system. Check the cards are all properly inserted and try to boot.

Try Tech Support

If nothing is working, you might want to try a remote technician. We recommend the services available here - a specialist will help you troubleshoot the issue step by step to help figure out a diagnosis, and a solution. Good luck!

Make sure that you follow safety procedures when installing your second hard drive. Turn the power to the computer off and ground yourself by touching metal prior to installing the second hard drive.

Back up the BIOS

Before you begin, you might want to take the safety measure of backing up your existing BIOS and data files just in case something goes wrong.

Adding a Second Hard Drive

When you add a second hard drive to a computer, you need to set one of the drives as the master and the other as the slave. Typically, the primary hard drive or the one with the operating system is going to be set as the master drive.

Locate the cable that is being used for the primary hard drive. Find the connector that you can use for the second hard drive and use it. Secure the hard drive in securely using the screws and close the computer up. Make sure that it is properly connected so that you will have power going to it.

If the cable for the hard drive does not have a second connector, then you need to either replace it with one that does or use a second ribbon cable provided you have a place to connect it to the motherboard.

Adding a Second Hard Drive to the Setup

Follow these steps:

1)      Turn the power button on.

2)      Immediately after the memory check takes place, you need to enter the BIOS set up. You should see the information you need to do so on your computer screen.

3)      If it is available, the best step is to select the option for “autodetect.” It might be labeled a bit differently. Press “Enter.” If this option is not available, skip ahead to the step 5.

4)      Once the “autodetect” screen appears, you need to enter “Y.” This will select the default settings for the drive that is already installed for use on the second hard drive. Now, skip to step 8.

5)      If you had to skip steps 3 and 4, then you need to manually enter the drive parameters for the second hard drive. Navigate to the setup screen for hard drives on the computer.

6)      Using your arrow keys, go through the list of hard drive parameters that is showing.

7)      Look for a set that does not go over the volume for your hard drive (e.g. 4 GB.) Select a set that resembles your hard drive and select “Enter.”

8)      Press the option that accepts the settings that you have selected (OK, enter, etc.)

9)      Select “Save” and exit the setup. Press enter and the computer should restart if you have completed each step correctly.

It looks like you decided to go ahead and tackle the difficult job of reflashing the BIOS. Clearing the CMOS will erase your BIOS settings, but in this case it won’t matter to you.

Clearing the CMOS

You say that you are clearing the CMOS - I’m not sure how you’re doing this, so let’s take a look at the different methods depending on the type of motherboard you have:

• Turn the computer off and then hold down the Insert key and wait for it to boot. This may clear the CMOS memory.
• Do the same thing, only hold down the Delete key this time.
• Your motherboard may have a clear jumper that can be used to clear the CMOS. Usually, you have to open the PC and set the jumper to a special setting. You would then boot it up to clear the CMOS. After that, you boot the PC down and reset the jumper back to the previous setting.
• If you have a CMOS battery on the motherboard, you can disconnect it in order to clear it. It will look like a flat watch battery that is on the motherboard. Take it out and let it sit - some people say ten minutes will do, but I like to leave it overnight just to be safe. Put it back and the CMOS should be cleared.
• You may have a motherboard with a battery that is soldered to it or is integrated into the unit. If this is the case, then it is probably not user serviceable.

Flashing Wrong BIOS

I hate to bring this up, but is it possible that you flashed the wrong BIOS? Apparently with Asus it isn’t that hard to do, but it will wreak havoc with your machine. If you think this might be the case, then the best recourse is to replace the BIOS chip, even though there are ways to flash the BIOS in the chip on another machine. In many cases, this will just pop in and out without special tools and won’t cost very much. You can do a little research on BIOS chips at the BIOSMAN website.

You never said what the original issue was that made you suspect a BIOS virus, but the next logical step is to take a look at your motherboard. Depending on your level of expertise, at this point it may be time to get some tech help to determine if there is a problem with your board.

Viruses that attack the BIO are possible, but they are very rare. Are you having issues with the BIOS, or are you just trying to protect your system? BIOS viruses were much more common in the early days of DOS and Win 1. With Windows 95 and later systems, BIOS viruses became harder to develop, although they can still be made by having the virus piggyback on another system and can become harmful if you flash the BIOS to a more recent copy without getting rid of it on the hard drive first.

Fixmbr

If you think that you might have a boot sector virus, you can use the fixmbr command in the Recovery Console in Windows XP. You will usually see symptoms of a boot sector virus - you will probably unable to start the operating system and will usually see error messages. If you want to use the fixmbr command, follow these steps:

1. Put the Windows Setup CD in the CD ROM.
2. Make sure that your computer starts from the CD.
3. Press R to start the Recovery Console.
4. You will need to select the installation that you want to repair - usually it is 1 if you only have one installation on your machine.
5. Enter the Administrative Password. If you don’t have one, leave it blank and press Enter.
6. At the prompt, type in: fixmbr. The program will run and fix your master boot record.

Flash the BIOS

You can flash the BIOS to an updated version and that should get rid of any nasties that are residing in your BIOS. This is a rather involved process that requires that you reinstall your operating system, so don’t do this if you only suspect you have a problem. If you need information about your BIOS system, you can download BIOS Agent from the web. You want to make sure that you disconnect your hard drive when you do this so that it doesn’t simply overwrite any viruses onto the new BIOS version. Follow these steps:

1. Scan your system for viruses using your standard antivirus procedures.
2. Back up your data to a disk or USB drive.
3. Shut down the affected computer.
4. Find a clean computer and go to the website for the motherboard for a desktop, or the laptop manufacturer and find the BIOS update on the site. Download this to the disk or USB drive.
5. On the affected computer, open the case and disconnect the hard drive. You don’t have to remove it completely.
6. Insert the CD or flash drive and make sure it is booting from that device.
7. Reboot the system and wait for the reboot to finish completely - interrupting the process can be deadly for your computer.
8. Once the computer has finished the process, you can reconnect the hard drive and reboot the computer.
9. You can then reformat the hard drive and reinstall your operating system.
10. It should now run normally once again.

Unless you are experiencing major computer problems, you are probably not infected with a BIOS virus. Running your normal virus scans and antimalware programs should keep you well protected.

BIOS Recovery System

As awful as it sounds, this is a fairly common problem with Acer Aspire notebooks and it sounds like you have an issue with the BIOS - as long as you can see the power button and hear the fans running to indicate that it is not a power issue. Luckily, these notebooks come with a built-in BIOS recovery system that should get you up and running without damaging or losing any of your files. Know that doing this may void your warranty, so if you have a warranty, you should talk to Acer directly. Follow these steps EXACTLY, and it should work for you:

1. Format a USB memory stick to FAT. Make sure it is bootable.
2. Download the latest BIOS from the Acer website. Follow these links for BIOS for Aspire One 150 or this link for BIOS for Aspire One 110
3. Put the FLASHIT.EXE and the BIOS file in the root directory of the memory stick.
4. Rename the BIOS file: ZG5IA32.FD. It is important that you get the file name exactly right.
5. Remove the drive.
6. Turn the Acer off, but make sure you have a working battery and AC power connected.
7. Insert the USB memory stick into a USB port.
8. Press Fn+Esc and press the Power button at the same time. After a few seconds, release Fn+Esc.
9. The power button should be blinking. Press it once.
10. At this point, the BIOS will flash - don’t press anything or interrupt this process. If you’ve done it right, the power button will stop flashing and the notebook will reboot. When it is all done, everything should be set to reboot.

Because you have an Acer Aspire One and you are getting the blank boot screen, I’m betting that this will solve your problem. If you are still having problems after following these directions exactly, then let us know and we can try to troubleshoot hardware or screen issues that may be the culprit.