HP Z420 Bios Block update - Any reasonably simple way?

Discussion in 'BIOS Mods' started by Uky, Aug 24, 2020.

  1. Uky

    Uky MDL Novice

    Jul 30, 2015
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    #1 Uky, Aug 24, 2020
    The HP Z420 is a nice workstation. They come in two versions where the BIOS Boot block
    either allows for 2011 Xeons V1 or also V2. The problem is that the "normal" BIOS can be
    updated using a USB-stick with an updated image. The Boot Block cannot.

    And it is the BootBlock that sets the difference.

    I have seen procedures on the net that requires a considerable effort and the use
    of a Raspberry (or some of this kind) and multiple wires attached to the BIOS circuit.
    Warnings are issued: Any mistake will brick the mobo. It is also quite time consuming.

    Anyone knows of a simpler way to do this update?
    Can it be that the circuit comes preloaded for board population?
     
  2. itsmemario1

    itsmemario1 MDL Expert

    Sep 10, 2012
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    #2 itsmemario1, Aug 27, 2020
  3. Uky

    Uky MDL Novice

    Jul 30, 2015
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    #3 Uky, Sep 17, 2020 (OP)
    No, I actually did not come from Reddit, but experiences from other flash products has been that the use of vendor specific flash software
    in order to unlock certain areas might be necessary. I have unlocked other write-protected flash-memories using vendor supplied software
    specifically for development and massfabrication.

    I did read some of the links provided. Decided that unless someone finds the HP software tools necessary
    for a complete BIOS upgrade including the BootBlock, it is not worth the risk of bricking a MB.

    Thanks for the links.