How to Use OEM Info Tool to Identify Hardware and BIOS Data

How to Use OEM Info Tool to Identify Hardware and BIOS Data

What it does

The OEM Info Tool reads and displays manufacturer-supplied system information stored in Windows (SMBIOS/firmware and registry), and can show or edit fields like manufacturer, model, support contact, and BIOS details. It helps quickly identify hardware and BIOS metadata for inventory, support, or troubleshooting.

When to use it

• Verifying OEM-provided model/manufacturer strings
• Gathering BIOS version, release date, and vendor for updates
• Preparing inventory lists or support reports
• Correcting incorrect OEM information shown in System Properties

Quick steps

1. Download and run the OEM Info Tool (run as Administrator if editing).
2. Choose “Read” or equivalent to fetch current system OEM fields and BIOS/SMBIOS data.
3. Review displayed fields: Manufacturer, Model, Serial Number, BIOS/UEFI vendor and version, release date, and support links.
4. If permitted and needed, edit text fields (Manufacturer, Model, Support Hours, Support URL). Save/apply changes and reboot if prompted.
5. For BIOS details not exposed by the tool, use built-in commands (e.g., wmic bios get manufacturer, smbiosbiosversion, releasedate) to cross-check.

Safety and permissions

• Editing OEM fields requires admin rights and may be restricted by manufacturer or group policies.
• Back up current settings before making changes.
• Do not alter serial numbers or service tags that are used for warranty/asset tracking unless authorized.

Useful built-in commands to cross-check data

• wmic bios get manufacturer, smbiosbiosversion, releasedate
• wmic csproduct get name, vendor, identifyingnumber
• PowerShell: Get-CimInstance -ClassName Win32_BIOS and Get-CimInstance -ClassName Win32_ComputerSystem

Troubleshooting tips

• If changes don’t persist, check for OEM tools or firmware locks from the manufacturer.
• If fields are blank, ensure firmware exposes SMBIOS fields or check registry keys under HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\OEMInformation.
• For inconsistent serial/service-tag values, verify using vendor diagnostic utilities or the system BIOS setup screen.

Best practices

• Record original values before editing.
• Use plain text for URLs and phone numbers.
• Keep edits minimal and documented for future support personnel.