Bios rom checksum error

[Norm]

I am getting the error message " bios rom checksum error ". Followed by
" detecting a floppy drive media insert system disk " . I can not get into the bios or Windows.

Tyan s1854 trinity 400 motherboard w/ award bios
500Mhz celeron
Win98SE

I read through posts on this forum and others. The consensus was a problem in the bios itself, and try to reflash the bios.

Before flashing the bios I tried:

clearing cmos and replacing battery
disconecting unnecessary hardware
checked connections and cables
put hard drive in another system to make sure OK
Ran Memtest86, it reported no errors

I had never flashed a bios on a motherboard before, but I think I got it right. I downloaded the most recent bios and flash utility from Tyan. I ran the utility, it loaded up and did its thing. However, afterwards it automatically rebooted the system. The Tyan site indicated to shut down system after flashing, clear cmos, and then bootup. Anyway, I shut down, cleared cmos, and rebooted. Probably no big deal. But still the same error message. I tried to reflash the bios again using the same bios but it would not let me. I can't remember the exact message, but it essentially said that the bios I was attempting to flash was not newer than the one present and to download a newer version.

At this point I am thinking maybe it is time to order a new bios chip, also something I have not previously attempted. Any advice, tips? Something I overlooked perhaps.

[glc]

afterwards it automatically rebooted the system

I have never seen THAT happen with an Award bios of that age. However, it appears that you did get a good flash.

I would be inclined to say there may be a problem elsewhere on the motherboard other than on the bios chip itself. I would remove the board from the case and try for a minimum hardware POST on the table to rule out mounting issues, such as a shorted standoff or a bad ground. If the bios chip is socketed, carefully remove it and reinsert it.

http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.php?t=12753

[Norm]

I did a minimal hardware post and still got the bios checksum error. So I pulled the bios and reinserted. Hit the power switch and nothing, completely dead. My first thought was that I had forgot to plug in the power cord. Double checked to make sure all connections good and that power cord was plugged in securely. Pulled bios and reinserted a second time making sure it was fully seated. Still completely dead. I also attempted clearing the cmos, and I noticed that when I pull the cmos jumper the fan on the cpu moves slightly.

Definitely leaning towards just ordering another motherboard at this point. I noticed Newegg has one for just over $40.00, and if I am lucky that would cover all possible problems.