Updating the BIOS on a Dell G5 155587 often resolves battery reporting errors and charging failures by correcting firmware communication between the motherboard and power management systems. This process involves downloading the correct executable from Dell’s support portal, ensuring stable power, and installing the update via Windows or a bootable USB to restore accurate power metrics.
Why BIOS Updates Fix Battery Issues
The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) contains low-level code that initializes hardware components during startup, including the Embedded Controller (EC). The EC manages power distribution, thermal monitoring, and battery charging logic. Over time, manufacturers release BIOS updates to fix bugs where the system misreads battery capacity, fails to recognize the charger, or shuts down unexpectedly due to incorrect voltage readings. For the Dell G5 155587, specific firmware revisions have addressed issues where the laptop reported "Plugged in, not charging" despite a functional adapter.
If your battery percentage drops suddenly or the system refuses to charge past a certain threshold, outdated firmware is a primary suspect. Before proceeding, ensure you are not experiencing physical hardware damage. If the battery is swollen or physically damaged, software updates will not help. Refer to Laptop Battery Levels Dropping Suddenly for additional diagnostics if the issue persists after updating.
Preparation Steps
Before initiating any firmware update, proper preparation is critical to prevent bricking the motherboard. A failed BIOS flash can render the laptop unusable, requiring professional repair. Follow these steps strictly:
- Connect AC Power: Plug your Dell G5 155587 into its original AC adapter. Do not attempt this update on battery power alone. The process requires uninterrupted electricity.
- Check Battery Health: Ensure the internal battery is charged above 10%. Some Dell utilities refuse to start the update if the battery level is too low.
- Close Applications: Save all work and close running applications. The system may restart automatically during the installation phase.
- Disable Antivirus Temporarily: While rare, some third-party antivirus software can interfere with driver installations. Consider pausing real-time protection for the duration of the download and install.
Downloading the Correct BIOS File
Navigating Dell’s support site correctly ensures you get the right file for your specific model number. Using the wrong BIOS version can cause system instability.
- Identify Your Service Tag: Locate the white sticker on the bottom of your laptop. It displays a 7-character alphanumeric Service Tag (e.g., XYZ1234). Alternatively, press
Win + R, typewmic bios get serialnumber, and press Enter to retrieve it in Windows. - Visit Dell Support: Go to the Dell Support website and enter your Service Tag in the search bar. This directs you to the exact driver page for your machine.
- Select Drivers & Downloads: Click on the "Drivers & Downloads" tab. Ensure the operating system is set to your current version (e.g., Windows 10 or 11).
- Filter by Category: Select "BIOS" from the dropdown menu under "Category."
- Download the Latest Version: Look for the BIOS update with the highest version number. It will typically be named something like "BIOS Update for Dell G5 15-5587." Download the executable file (.exe) to your desktop.
Do not extract the files manually unless instructed by Dell’s documentation. The executable usually contains the necessary drivers and extraction tools.
Installing the BIOS Update
Dell provides two main methods for installing BIOS updates: via Windows using the executable file or via a bootable USB drive. The Windows method is simpler for most users.
Method 1: Windows Executable Installation
This method runs within the operating system and handles the reboot sequence automatically.
- Run as Administrator: Right-click the downloaded .exe file and select "Run as administrator."
- Accept Terms: Read and accept the End User License Agreement (EULA).
- Monitor Progress: The installer will check prerequisites. If successful, it will prompt you to restart. Click "Restart Now."
- Wait for Completion: The screen may go black, and fans may spin at maximum speed. This is normal. Do not touch the power button or keyboard. The process can take 5-10 minutes.
- Post-Install Reset: After the update, the system may restart again. Upon returning to Windows, verify the new BIOS version in the System Information app.
Method 2: Bootable USB (If Windows Fails)
If you cannot boot into Windows or the executable fails, use a bootable USB. Create a FAT32-formatted USB drive. Download the "BIOS Flash Image" version of the update from Dell’s site. Use Dell’s Media Creation Tool or Rufus to write the image to the USB. Insert the USB, boot the laptop, and press F12 to access the One-Time Boot Menu. Select the USB drive and follow the on-screen prompts.
Verifying the Fix
Once the update is complete, monitor your battery behavior for 24 hours. Charge the laptop to 100% and let it discharge naturally. Check if the "Plugged in, not charging" message disappears. If the issue remains, consider resetting the Embedded Controller by removing the AC adapter, holding the power button for 30 seconds, and reconnecting power. For deeper electrical troubleshooting, see Troubleshooting: Laptop Battery Not Charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update the BIOS without an internet connection?
No, you must download the BIOS file on another computer first. You can transfer the file via USB drive, but the initial download requires internet access. Once downloaded, you can proceed with the offline installation methods described above.
Will updating the BIOS delete my files or reset settings?
Updating the BIOS does not erase personal files, photos, or documents. However, it may reset BIOS settings to their default values, such as boot order or virtualization features. You may need to re-enable Secure Boot or TPM if required for your security software.
What happens if the power goes out during the update?
If the power fails during a BIOS flash, the firmware may become corrupted, rendering the laptop unable to boot. This is why connecting to AC power is mandatory. In worst-case scenarios, Dell service centers can reflash the chip using specialized hardware, but this is costly.
How do I know if my BIOS update was successful?
You can verify the update by pressing Win + R, typing msinfo32, and checking the "BIOS Version/Date" field. Compare this date and version number with the one listed on Dell’s support page for your Service Tag.
Should I update the BIOS immediately when a new version is available?
Not always. Only update if the release notes mention fixes for issues you are experiencing, such as battery problems, Wi-Fi connectivity, or stability crashes. If your system is working perfectly, waiting for a more significant cumulative update may be prudent.