> So, is there any way to deal with this, other than fixing
> something on the motherboard (how likely is it that a BIOS
> update would help)?

If a newer BIOS is available, you should try that - I won't place
bets on likelihood of fixing your problem.

I have no clue if there is a workaround (either by not insisting on apid 
2 or by trying to remap it someway different).

Martin