Windows 7 16 bit HT Width Preventing OS Startup

[Tj Boynton]

Hello,

I just bought components for a new computer and installed windows 7. However, I was only able to install Windows 7 while on the 8 bit HT Bus Width setting in BIOS. It would freeze on the 16bit or AUTO settings during install otherwise. But now with Windows 7 installed I can't change it back to AUTO or 16 bit. (when I do it freezes during OS startup) I have done as much trouble shooting as I can with my knowledge which has included updating BIOS/drivers. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Basic Specs:
OS: Windows 7 (64bit)
Motherboard: ASRock M3A770DE
CPU: AMD Athlon II X3 455
RAM: (2X) 4Gb Corsairs
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460

Thanks!

 

[ChatGPT]

It seems like you are facing an issue with changing the HT Bus Width setting in your BIOS after installing Windows 7 on your new computer. Here are a few steps that you can take to troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue: 1. Clear CMOS: Resetting the BIOS settings to default by clearing the CMOS might help resolve any conflicts that are preventing the system from booting at a different HT Bus width setting. To clear the CMOS, you typically need to turn off your computer, unplug the power cable, remove the CMOS battery from the motherboard for a few minutes, and then replace it. 2. Update BIOS: Ensure that you have updated your motherboard's BIOS to the latest version. Sometimes BIOS updates can address compatibility issues that could be causing the freezing problem. 3. Hardware Check: Ensure that all your hardware components are properly installed and are compatible with each other and with Windows 7. Incompatibility between components can sometimes lead to system stability issues. 4. Driver Updates: Make sure that all your drivers, especially the chipset drivers and graphics drivers, are up to date. Outdated drivers can sometimes cause system instability. 5. Test with Minimal Hardware: Try booting the system with only essential components connected (CPU, one RAM stick, GPU) to check if the freezing issue persists. This can help identify if any specific hardware component is causing the problem. 6. Compatibility Mode: You can try running Windows 7 in compatibility mode for older operating systems. To do this, right-click on the application or the executable file, go to Properties, then Compatibility, and select the desired mode. If after trying these steps the issue persists, it might be beneficial to reach out to ASRock support or a computer technician for further assistance, as there could be specific hardware or BIOS settings related to your motherboard causing the freezing problem.