How to Identify, Remove and Replace Bios Chip on Motherboard
The BIOS chip on a motherboard contains software that can be corrupted by viruses or failed BIOS updates. If that happens, you will not see the POST screen when you boot the computer.
You will have to identify, remove, and replace the BIOS chip on your motherboard. For each stage, be prepared with a screwdriver, a heat gun, a DIL BIOS chip extraction tool, a soldering iron, flux, and a replacement BIOS chip.
As we shall see, there are two types of BIOS chips, which are quite easy to locate. However, removing and replacing them might require a little expertise because mishandling the printed circuit board can cause irreversible damage.
Here, we will mention the materials you need to succeed without relying on third parties. Let’s jump straight to it and get our hands dirty with the technical stuff.
How to Identify a BIOS chip on Motherboard
Depending on your computer, you can encounter one of two BIOS chips. Either the soldered BIOS chip or the socketed BIOS chip. Whichever is mounted on your motherboard, identifying the BIOS chip is not complicated. The difference occurs in their mode of removal and replacement.
Follow these guidelines to identify your BIOS chip.
Materials Needed
- A precision screwdriver
Step 1: Use the precision screwdriver to unscrew the #6–32 UNC case screws by turning them anticlockwise.
Step 2: Carefully remove the computer casing and identify the BIOS chip.
In most motherboards, the BIOS chip is clearly labeled for easy identification. Look at the writings on the motherboard and locate “UEFI BIOS” or “BIOS.” If you cannot find it, you can locate it by its position. The BIOS chip is usually located next to the CMOS battery.
You can also identify the BIOS chip by referring to the printed and labeled motherboard layout in the computer’s manual. It can be a square or a rectangle, taking the form of a Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) or a Dual In-line Package (DIP). The width of the BIOS chips on the PLCC package ranges between 0.35” and 1.15”.
After identifying the BIOS chip on your motherboard, it is now time to remove it.
How to Remove the BIOS Chip on Motherboard
BIOS chips are removable because the software can be corrupted or destroyed. Imagine having to purchase a new motherboard because of a faulty BIOS chip. The thought would result in a panic if the chip were not replaceable.
However, there is no need to panic. Here is how to go about it.
Materials Needed
- DIL BIOS chip extraction tool
- Heat gun
- Soldering flux
Step 1: If the BIOS chip is held by solder, apply flux on the contacts to promote the melting of the soldering iron.
Step 2: Connect your heat gun to a power source and blow hot air over the BIOS chip to weaken the soldered contacts.
When using the heat gun, you must keep the temperature at between 90 and 400 degrees celsius depending on the solder material, which is the melting point of the solder. You should not prolong the heating for more than 90 seconds over the motherboard or the BIOS chip. Extreme temperature can weaken or destroy other components on the motherboard.
Step 3: Remove the CMOS battery.
Step 4: Use the DIL BIOS chip extraction tool to hold on the BIOS chip and pull it out vertically.
Ensure the prong hooks of the DIL BIOS extraction tool go under the chip on both sides. You should also note the alignment of the chip to its socket so that you can insert the replacement BIOS chip appropriately. Misalignment can cause overheating and possible motherboard damage.
The DIL extractor will help you remove the BIOS chip easily, whether it is a soldered or socketed chip.
How to Change BIOS Chip on Motherboard
Some BIOS chips have sockets, while others are held on the motherboard using a soldering iron. Replacing the former can be quite simple than replacing the latter.
Materials Needed
- Solder
- Heat gun
- Isopropyl alcohol
Step 1: Use isopropyl alcohol to clean the area around the motherboard where you removed the BIOS chip.
Step 2: Insert the BIOS chip with the contacts in their respective positions. Just as the old BIOS chip was aligned to the motherboard, do the same with the replacement chip.
Step 3: Solder the contacts back into position. Otherwise, press the replacement chip into position if your motherboard has a socket for the BIOS chip.
Once this is done, return the CMOS battery and lock back the computer casing with the screws. Plug the computer to power and switch it on. The boot process should then proceed normally.
Tip: Remove and replace the motherboard BIOS chip on a flat surface. It not only protects the motherboard from damage but also supports falling screws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any BIOS chip on my motherboard?
BIOS chips contain software that is specific to the motherboard model. Any BIOS chip can be incompatible, and you may still experience boot problems. Instead, get an original BIOS chip or flash the existing one.
Are all BIOS chips removable?
Both types of BIOS chips are removable. One can be removed by soldering, and the other can be removed using a DIL BIOS chip extractor tool or a similar device.
Can a BIOS chip be updated?
The USB flashback feature in motherboards allows BIOS updates to fix or add the latest features to your system.
How to tell if the BIOS chip is bad?
The most common symptom of a bad chip is that your computer cannot boot. Similarly, the computer can wake up but will not go past the product logo.