Update CPU, MOBO, RAM and launch directly into BIOS
Update CPU, MOBO, RAM and launch directly into BIOS
I replaced my motherboard, CPU, and RAM to upgrade the system, left the previous storage (1 SSD, 1 HDD) and GPU (7700XTX) in place on Windows 10 64-bit. I moved from a Z390 to a Z790 with an i7-12700K and 32GB RAM. When I started up, it immediately went to BIOS. I can clearly see the drives, RAM, CPU, and GPU so I’m confident the new components are recognized. However, I can’t select boot from the old drives—they’re hidden in the menu. XMP settings are also disabled. The system powers on and cycles power normally. Some forums suggested flipping CSM/UEFI settings might help, but others reported mixed results. I also noticed some advice to reinstall the BIOS, though no further updates have been confirmed. Right now I’m working, so I can only share what I know.
Reinstall Windows after upgrading motherboards and CPUs. They function using various chipsets and drivers that Windows identifies and installs automatically. With the latest hardware, your new chipset may not be recognized by Windows.
Yes, turning off secure boot and turning on CSM might allow you to start from an MBR formatted disk. This shouldn't be an issue if you had GPT/UEFI boot before. If your disks aren't encrypted (like with BitLocker), you could remove them and install a brand-new SSD or HDD without any files. Then put Windows on the new drive, reconnect the old ones, and restore your data.
I think I'll start with the boot switch first, and if that doesn't work, I might grab a M.2 card on the way home. Do any adjustments need to be made to the old drives so they work with the new one once it's installed? I don't see a problem moving data out and reformatting the old ones to UEFI, then switching back to UEFI boot.
It shouldn't work out of the box. Windows should only grab it unless BitLocker is enabled.
You might need to set a disk letter in Disk Management, but don’t format the disks until you’ve recovered data. Make sure they’re disconnected temporarily during Windows installation to avoid bootloader problems. This isn’t required if you plan to use them as backup storage. If Secure Boot is enabled and CSM is off (required for Windows 11), secondary drives can still be used after booting. You can change an old MBR drive to GPT format, but it’s wise to back up first! ^^
It's suggested to upgrade the BIOS for 13th-14th generation CPUs to receive the most recent patches, though currently 12th generation models aren't affected. Check if an installation is possible, and if not, consider applying the BIOS update.