Booting problem: CMOS/GNVP checksum bad and CMOS/Time/Date error

I help my neighbor with her computer. Gateway PC with XP. Twice last week, she booted up and the MS-DOS screen appeared with two error messages:
1) CMOS/GNVP checksum bad
2) CMOS/Time/Date error

Screen instructions - use F4 to reset. This opens the BIOS main screen. When you reset the Time and Date, save and exit, XP loads and everything seems to work well until the next time it happens.

Does anyone know the cause of this problem? What does the first error mean and how to correct? All help appreciated.

Georgi in UT

 

You need to replace the battery on the motherboard. If it's bad, it would cause both those errors. Look on the motherboard for a battery that looks like a watch battery.

 

Boot problem

Thanks Zander. I've got a schematic from Gateway on where the CMOS battery is supposed to be and how to remove and install it.

Are all CMOS batteries created equal? I found one at cables4computer.com --CR 2032 3v lithium. Would this work?

I have no idea what the replacement battery # is -- short of opening the tower and checking out the exisiting battery which I may have to do. If I can see it readily, and get the number that would be ideal. If I have to remove it to get the number, will I create more problems than I already have?

Thanks again,
Georgi in UT

 

You should open the case and take the battery out so you can see just what it is you have. Replace it with the same type. Brand isn't so important but it should be the same number. It shouldn't be a problem to take it out. Just don't be sticking that screwdriver in places it doesn't belong.

You should be able to buy one any place where they sell watch type batteries. When you first boot the computer after installing the new battery, you'll more than likely get the error again. If so, go into your bios and set the default settings (unless there's something you know you want different), then save them, exit and boot the computer. It should be the end of the error messages. Hopefully anyway.

 

Yes. And, as Zander said ....... you can get them about anywhere. Drug Store, Walmart, Radio Shack, Bait Shop, Boat Rental.

 

Booting problem

Thanks for your help. I did find a CR 2032 battery at the local hardware and have it on hand. I'll see if it's the right one on Monday when I go to my neighbors. This is an awesome sight. I always get answers that help. Keep up the good work.
Georgi in UT