Well, now that I read this post I have more information. The BIOS update WOULD cause the issue if it was not completed. I recommend you take it to a tech. For a decent price best buy has the geek squad, but they are not "experts." I have never encountered a problem like this one, but I do not think it is un-recoverable. Just a ain in the butt to do so. From the problems it was having before you ran into this one......yes it may have needed updates. Get the BIOS fixed and you should be able to continue on your merry way, finish updating, and be happy with your comuter. At least until it messes up again.....