FTS_Bios 702 Update Download: OEM BIOS, Flashing Process, and IEEE 1394 Fix

Looking for the FTS_Bios 702 Update Download after flashing process or getting the IEEE 1394 Error? Then you are at the right spot.

Since BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a critical software component that facilitates communication between your computer’s hardware and operating system, regular BIOS updates can provide enhanced system stability, improved hardware compatibility, and security vulnerability patches.

For FTS (Fujitsu Technology Solutions) motherboards, specifically those requiring the 702 microcode update (which supports Yorkfield processors like the Q9650 CPU), performing a BIOS update is essential for optimal system performance.

The FTS BIOS 702 update Download is particularly significant as it adds support for newer processors and addresses compatibility issues that may prevent systems from booting properly with upgraded hardware.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of downloading, installing, and troubleshooting the FTS BIOS 702 update, with special attention to resolving IEEE 1394 (FireWire) issues that may arise during the process.

Understanding OEM BIOS for FTS_Bios 702 Update Download

What is OEM BIOS?

OEM BIOS refers to customized firmware that original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) pre-install on their motherboards to support specific hardware configurations and proprietary features.

FTS (Fujitsu Technology Solutions) utilizes OEM BIOS versions that are tailored to their hardware implementations, which means that generic BIOS updates from the motherboard chipset manufacturer may not be fully compatible.

Identifying Your FTS Motherboard and BIOS Version

Before attempting any BIOS update, it’s crucial to identify your specific motherboard model and current BIOS version:

1. Check during boot: The BIOS ID is typically displayed during the boot process (usually shown on the first screen that appears when powering on your computer).
2. Use system information tools: Utilities like CPU-Z or HWiNFO can provide detailed information about your motherboard and BIOS version.
3. Check existing documentation: Your motherboard manual or system specifications sheet should contain this information.

FTS motherboards often carry model numbers such as G31T-M2, G31T-M5, or G31T-LM, which are OEM variations of ECS motherboards with slight modifications. The specific model number determines which BIOS update you need to use.

Do Checkout: How to Fix bo6 error code 0xc0000005

OEM BIOS Limitations and Considerations

• Update restrictions: Some OEM BIOS implementations are locked to prevent flashing with non-OEM firmware, which can complicate update processes.
• Feature variations: OEM BIOS versions may have different feature sets compared to retail versions, including limited overclocking options or hardware support.
• Recovery challenges: Failed flash attempts on OEM systems may require specialized recovery procedures that differ from standard motherboards.

Preparing for the FTS BIOS 702 Update Download

Downloading the Correct BIOS Update

Finding the appropriate BIOS update for your FTS motherboard is crucial for a successful update process:

1. Visit official support portals: Fujitsu’s official support website (https://support.ts.fujitsu.com) should be your first resource for locating genuine BIOS updates.
2. Verify motherboard compatibility: Ensure the BIOS update specifically matches your motherboard model and revision.
3. Confirm microcode inclusion: Check that the BIOS update includes the 702 microcode needed for Yorkfield processors (CPUID 010677).

For the FTS BIOS 702 update, you may need to search using your specific motherboard model number rather than the generic “FTS BIOS 702” terminology.

Unfortunately, some older BIOS updates may no longer be available on official websites, requiring alternative sources like Wim’s BIOS (https://www.wimsbios.com/biosupdates/fujitsu.jsp), which archives various BIOS versions.

Creating Bootable Media for FTS BIOS 702 Update Flashing

Most FTS BIOS updates require creating bootable media for the flashing process:

dos

:: Example flash.bat content often found in FTS BIOS packages
@echo off
echo Please wait while BIOS is being updated...
afudos.exe BIOSIMAGE.ROM /p /b /n /x
echo BIOS update completed! Please reboot your system.

1. Download the BIOS update package: Typically comes as an ISO file or ZIP archive containing the BIOS image and flashing utility.
2. Create DOS bootable media:
   • For ISO files: Burn the image to a CD using disc burning software 1.
   • For other formats: Create a bootable USB drive with DOS system files and copy the BIOS files to it.
3. Extract necessary files: Ensure the BIOS image file (typically with .ROM extension) and flashing utility (often Afudos or similar) are on the bootable media.

Flashing the FTS BIOS 702 Update

DOS-Mode Flashing Procedure

The recommended method for flashing FTS BIOS updates is through DOS mode, which provides a clean environment without interfering with operating system processes:

1. Insert your bootable media containing the BIOS update files.
2. Reboot your system and configure the BIOS to boot from your installation media (CD/USB).
3. Boot into DOS mode: The system should start into a minimal DOS environment.
4. Run the flash utility: At the command prompt, typically, you would type flash.bat or manually run the flash command with the appropriate parameters.
5. Wait for completion: The flashing process may take several minutes. Do not interrupt power during this process, as it may render your motherboard unusable.
6. Reboot your system: Once completed, remove the bootable media and restart your computer.

Windows-Based Flashing Alternative

Some FTS BIOS updates may offer Windows-based flashing utilities:

1. Close all applications before running the flash utility to prevent conflicts.
2. Run the flash tool as Administrator to ensure it has the necessary privileges.
3. Follow on-screen instructions carefully throughout the flashing process.
4. Allow the system to reboot automatically upon completion.

While Windows-based flashing can be more convenient, DOS-mode flashing is generally more reliable for critical BIOS updates, especially those involving microcode changes.

Verification and Post-Flash Steps

After completing the FTS BIOS 702 update flash:

1. Enter BIOS setup to confirm the new version number is displayed.
2. Load optimized defaults to ensure stable operation with the new firmware.
3. Reconfigure custom settings that you may have had in the previous BIOS version.
4. Verify hardware detection: Check that all components are properly recognized, especially processors and memory.

Troubleshooting IEEE 1394 Exclamation Mark Issues

Understanding IEEE 1394 Problems After FTS BIOS 702 Updates

The IEEE 1394 (FireWire) controller showing an exclamation mark in Device Manager after a BIOS update is a common issue that indicates a device driver or hardware recognition problem. This can occur due to:

• Resource conflicts caused by changes in BIOS hardware enumeration
• Driver compatibility issues with the new BIOS version
• Incorrect BIOS settings for legacy device support
• Physical hardware failure possibly exacerbated during the update process

Step-by-Step Resolution Guide

1. Check Device Manager status:
   • Right-click on My Computer > Properties > Hardware > Device Manager
   • Locate the IEEE 1394 Bus Host Controllers section
   • Identify any devices with yellow exclamation marks
2. Reinstall/update drivers:
   • Right-click on the problematic device and select “Update Driver”
   • Choose “Install from a list or specific location”
   • Select “Don’t search. I will choose the driver to install.”
   • Choose the “OHCI Compliant IEEE 1394 Host Controller” driver if available
3. Reset NVRAM/BIOS settings:
   • Enter BIOS setup during boot (typically by pressing F2)
   • Enable Caps Lock, Scroll Lock, and Num Lock
   • Press Alt+E, then Alt+F, then Alt+B (on some Dell systems, may vary for FTS)
   • This forces the BIOS to redetect installed hardware
4. Check for hardware conflicts:
   • In Device Manager, check for resource conflicts under View > Resources by type
   • Ensure no address or IRQ conflicts with other devices
5. Verify physical hardware functionality:
   • Test with known working IEEE 1394 devices
   • Check if the issue persists across multiple devices
   • Consider that the physical ports may have failed

Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques

If basic steps don’t resolve the IEEE 1394 issue:

• Apply Windows hotfixes: Some systems require specific patches for IEEE 1394 functionality (e.g., Hotfix q329256 mentioned in Dell communities).
• Check power management settings: Disable selective suspend or power saving features for the IEEE 1394 controller.
• Test with a different operating system: Live Linux USB can help determine if the issue is hardware or software-related.
• Inspect physical components: Look for damaged ports, connectors, or circuitry on the motherboard.

5 Microcode Update Details for FTS BIOS 702

The 702 microcode specifically adds support for Yorkfield processors (CPUID 010677) and addresses various stability issues with 45nm Intel Core 2 Quad processors.

When examining BIOS contents, microcodes are stored at specific offsets with associated version information:

Table: Microcode Details in FTS BIOS

Offset	Size	Version	Date	CPUID	Processor Type
0x007130	1400	017	04/22/2005	000F41	Prescott E0
0x008930	0800	005	04/21/2005	000F43	Prescott N0
0x009130	0C00	005	04/21/2005	000F44	Smithfield A0
0x00A130	0C00	003	04/21/2005	000F47	Smithfield B0
0x00B130	0800	003	04/21/2005	000F49	Prescott G1
0x00B930	0800	004	12/14/2005	000F4A	Prescott R0
0x00c130	1000	0CB	09/16/2007	0006F6	Conroe B2
0x00D130	1000	068	09/16/2007	0006F7	Kentsfield B3
0x00E130	1000	05A	09/26/2007	0006F2	Conroe L2
0x00F130	1000	0B6/0	07/13/2007	0006FB	Conroe G0
0x010130	1000	0A3	08/13/2007	0006FD	Conroe M0
0x011130	1000	0B6/4	07/13/2007	0006FB	Conroe G0
0x012130	1000	038	09/19/2007	010661	Conroe-L A0
0x013130	1000	606/4	09/12/2007	010676	Wolfdale
0x014130	1000	606/0	09/12/2007	010676	Wolfdale
0x015130	1000	106/4	03/29/2007	010671	Wolfdale
0x016130	1000	404/4	06/08/2007	010674	Wolfdale
0x017130	1000	106/0	06/08/2007	010671	Wolfdale
0x018130	1000	404/0	06/08/2007	010674	Wolfdale
0x019130	1000	702	12/17/2007	010677	Yorkfield

Source: 3

The addition of the 702 microcode at offset 0x019130 enables support for Yorkfield processors like the Q9650 CPU, which might not function properly (or at all) with earlier microcode versions.

This is particularly important for users upgrading their processors on older motherboards that originally shipped with support for earlier CPU architectures.

FAQs: FTS_BIOS 702 Update Download Questions

1. Where can I safely download the FTS BIOS 702 update?

The safest source is officially from Fujitsu’s support portal using your specific motherboard model number.

If the BIOS is no longer available on official channels, archival sites like Wim’s BIOS may have preserved copies. Always verify the checksum of downloaded files when possible.

2. What should I do if the BIOS flash fails and my system won’t boot?

Many FTS motherboards have a BIOS recovery procedure that can be initiated by inserting a bootable media with the BIOS files and following specific key combinations during power-on. Consult your motherboard manual for exact recovery instructions.

In worst-case scenarios, you may need to use a dedicated BIOS programmer device to recover the firmware.

3. Why does my IEEE 1394 port show an exclamation mark after the BIOS update?

This typically indicates a driver or resource conflict issue. Try reinstalling the OHCI Compliant IEEE 1394 Host Controller drivers through Device Manager. If that doesn’t work, reset the NVRAM using the BIOS setup utility key combination (often Alt+E, Alt+F, Alt+B during BIOS setup).

4. Can I use a standard ECS BIOS on my FTS OEM motherboard?

While FTS motherboards are often based on ECS designs, they frequently include OEM-specific modifications that may make standard ECS BIOS versions incompatible. Attempting to flash a non-OEM BIOS may result in loss of functionality or a bricked motherboard. Always use BIOS files specifically designed for your FTS motherboard model.

5. How can I verify that the 702 microcode update was successfully applied?

You can use utilities like CPU-Z or HWiNFO to check your current microcode version after the BIOS update. Additionally, if the update was successful, your system should properly recognize and support Yorkfield processors like the Q9650 CPU that previously may not have worked correctly.

Conclusion

Updating your FTS BIOS 702 Update to the latest version requires careful attention to detail but can significantly enhance your system’s compatibility with newer hardware, particularly Yorkfield-based processors. By following this comprehensive guide—downloading the correct OEM BIOS update, properly flashing your motherboard, and troubleshooting potential IEEE 1394 issues—you can breathe new life into older FTS-based systems.

Remember that BIOS flashing carries inherent risks, so always ensure stable power during the process and carefully verify that you’re using the correct BIOS version for your specific motherboard model. With the proper preparation and methodology, you can complete the FTS BIOS 702 update and resolve any subsequent hardware detection issues that may arise.