s about installing and updating OS bios and drivers
s about installing and updating OS bios and drivers
I'm assembling a new PC and have some queries about setup and updates. Let me begin by explaining the hardware I'm putting together. Please note I'm not focused on what you might have chosen, but on what fits my plan! Rosewill Challanger Mid ATX Case Corsair CX500 PSU Asus M5A97 R2.O Motherboard AMD FX6300 CPU (stock fan) Sapphire R7 260x 2gb GPU Kingston HyperX Fury 1600mhx 8gb memory (1x8gb stick) Western Digital Blue 1tb Hard Drive @ 7200 rpm Asus 24x dvd/rw optical drive. I intend to install Windows 8.1 in its full retail version. My main activities will involve gaming, recording, and streaming LoL matches, plus browsing and other light tasks. Now to your questions! 1. Should I, if possible, update the BIOS before installing the OS? 2. What should be the sequence for driver updates? 3. Should I install Windows first or drivers? 4. Are there any unusual considerations during installation? 5. Will the USB wireless keyboard and mouse work during setup or only after OS is in? 6. Any other points I overlooked that might help? Thanks, Jim
1. BIOS updates aren't crucial during a fresh install. They often bring minor improvements or bug fixes without significantly impacting performance right after the OS is set up. You can handle this later if necessary.
2. No. I run three or more simultaneously and boot after one prompts. LAN, chipset, audio, and graphics are the most important components.
3. It varies. Windows updates are enabled by default, so if your connection works without drivers, the OS will automatically download and install updates on first boot.
4. If you have an HDD with data to preserve, disconnect it during installation. Since you only have one HDD, there should be no issues. Before proceeding, confirm the HDD is in ACHI/SATA mode and your boot sequence is correct.
5. It depends on the motherboard. Some support it, while others may not. Certain boards lack only USB3 ports and might not work with all keyboards.
6. @be4rgryllz covered it well. Enjoy the build!
I assessed my needs and future upgrades, realizing I likely won’t go beyond 16GB. I intend to start with two 4GB drives and possibly add more later. Regarding your earlier concern about the SSD, it mainly depends on cost. I can’t afford even modest 128GB options due to budget constraints.