Upgrade BIOS chip tools (Minisforum TH50/i5-11320H/16GB DDR4 RAM)
Upgrade BIOS chip tools (Minisforum TH50/i5-11320H/16GB DDR4 RAM)
You're trying to apply a BIOS update straight to the chip of your Minisforum TH50 using a tool that doesn't work through Windows. You're facing a long boot time and are considering a workaround from Amazon. The situation sounds frustrating, especially since you're open to taking some risk if it works. It's good you're thinking about alternatives and have tried other fixes like replacing the CMOS battery and clearing everything. If you're unsure about the right approach, feel free to ask for more details.
It seems unlikely. I’ll check the BIOS again, though I’m unsure if this is feasible with the device. I talked to customer support a few months back and they said it wasn’t possible, but I don’t recall reviewing the BIOS settings (it was a bit of a side quest, hehe).
It was odd they sent a compressed file. It contained an .exe for a BIOS flashing tool, which they warned against using and claimed it didn’t work. They also provided a .bat, a .bin, and two .sys files. They instructed me to run the .bat file with admin privileges, but nothing happened. I didn’t try Safe Mode.
You have restored the BIOS to its original settings using the "reset hole" on page 9. The documentation suggests it should be simple to flash the BIOS, though the instructions are unclear. The BIOS zip contains three folders; you likely want to use the Win files. The batch file only executes an executable with several switches—make sure all files are placed in the root of the USB drive.
It seems the platform is quite disappointing, with minimal actual information available. Most guidance comes from vague suggestions rather than clear details. Accessing the BIOS appears challenging, and the manual mentions little to no BIOS or configuration options. However, the purchasing features function properly.
This instruction doesn’t require a physical BIOS flasher. The manual explains how to disable Intel ME and highlights the CSME tools downloads. It notes that support appears limited to version 14, but a repository offers versions 15 and 16. There’s no clear way to identify which CSME tool matches a platform without testing both newer versions. The key tool mentioned is Intel FPT inside the CSME folder—after unzipping, locate fpt.exe and its related file. Save it on an MSDOS drive using Rufus, then boot into DOS and run the command with the correct version extension. If issues arise, ensure your BIOS files are accurate, as mismatched files can cause bricking. For more reliable results, consider using a physical BIOS programmer like the one recommended (Ch341A) and basic soldering tools.
I checked the root directory and followed the setup instructions. It doesn’t work when I open it in Windows or boot from the USB. I’ve tried all possible reset methods.