NVIDIA offers a command-line tool called NVFlash designed for updating or replacing the firmware on graphics processing units. This firmware acts as the software layer that manages and controls the GPU’s hardware components. In the context of graphics cards, this firmware is commonly referred to as either BIOS or VBIOS (Video BIOS).
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | NVFlash (NVIDIA Flash) |
| Developer | NVIDIA Corporation |
| Purpose | Firmware flashing utility for NVIDIA graphics cards – used to update, backup, and restore GPU BIOS/VBIOS |
| File Types |
• Windows: nvflash.exe, nvflash64.exe • Linux: nvflash, nvflash_linux • DOS: nvflash.exe |
| Supported Platforms |
• Windows (32-bit and 64-bit) • Linux • DOS • UEFI |
| Compatible GPUs | NVIDIA GeForce, Quadro, and Tesla graphics cards (varies by version) |
| Primary Functions |
• Flash/Update GPU BIOS • Backup current BIOS • Restore previous BIOS • Display adapter information • Modify BIOS settings • Enable/disable BIOS protection |
| Common Commands |
• nvflash --save backup.rom – Save current BIOS• nvflash --index=0 newbios.rom – Flash new BIOS• nvflash --list – List all GPUs• nvflash --version – Show version info• nvflash -6 newbios.rom – Force flash (bypass checks)• nvflash --protectoff – Disable BIOS write protection• nvflash --protecton – Enable BIOS write protection |
| Key Features |
• Multiple GPU support • BIOS verification • Checksum validation • Version detection • Adapter information display • Override capabilities for advanced users |
| Requirements |
• Administrator/Root privileges • Compatible NVIDIA GPU • Matching BIOS file for specific GPU model • Stable power supply recommended • All GPU applications closed |
| Usage Scenarios |
• Updating outdated BIOS • Recovering from corrupted BIOS • Enabling additional features • Overclocking modifications • Fixing compatibility issues • Repairing bricked graphics cards |
| Risks & Warnings |
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNINGS: • Can permanently damage GPU if done incorrectly • Wrong BIOS file can brick the card • Power loss during flashing can cause failure • May void warranty • Requires exact BIOS match for GPU model • No official support for failed flashes |
| Best Practices |
• Always backup original BIOS first • Verify BIOS file compatibility • Use UPS or stable power source • Close all GPU-intensive applications • Read documentation thoroughly • Have recovery plan ready • Test in safe environment first |
| Alternatives |
• GPU-Z (BIOS backup only) • ATIFlash/AMDVBFlash (for AMD cards) • NVIDIA System Tools • Manufacturer-specific tools |
| File Format | ROM files (.rom, .bin) – Binary firmware images |
| Typical File Size | 64KB – 1MB (depending on GPU generation) |
| Official Source | NVIDIA official website, TechPowerUp (BIOS database) |
| User Level | Advanced users, enthusiasts, professionals – NOT recommended for beginners |
| Legal Status | Legal to use on your own hardware; modifying BIOS may void warranty |
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