System Battery Low...on a desk top?

Hi,
This has been coming up on and off for awhile now...But it's on my Dell Desk top...not a lap top..It doesn't do it everytime, but when I start my computer up it comes up to a screen that has writing on it but then half way down it says:

Alert!...System battery voltage is low. Press F1 to go to Configuration Utility or F2 to start up.

I press F1 and cant really find anything or know what to do so I always just press F2 and go on.

My computer is a Dell Dimension XPS Gen2, Windows XP Home Edition.

Thanks, Rhonda

 

Hi Rhonda,

This is your CMOS battery, if you're happy enough you can open up your case and look for it on the motherboard (they're usually button cell types) A replacement can be bought anywhere for pennies and it should be too difficult to swap them over.

 

Thank you, I never knew desk tops even had one....I'll do that.
Thanks, Rhonda

 

It's used to power your cmos memory (BIOS settings etc) and the system clock when your computer is powered down. If you start getting DATE/TIME errors or startup problems don't worry about them until you replace the battery.

 

Ok...a stupid question kinda, but when I go to get one of these battery's do I just look for a CMOS battery or do they have a different name?
Thank you, Rhonda

 

It depends, most 90%+ are Maxell-CR2032 or equivalent, but I don't know your system it's possible (though unlikely) yours is different. If you have a look the type should be stamped/printed on it somewhere.

 

Ok, I'll do that tonight, thank you so much, if i can't find it I'll write and let ya know, and maybe give me some ideas on where it's at. But if it's stamped on there I'm sure I'll find it. Thanks again, Rhonda

 

Hi Rhonda, The batteries (CR2032) are readily available in most Battery Display units in your local Supermarket. A word of caution when changing the battery, unless you are confident about opening the computer case - get someone who is experienced to do it for you. You must ensure the AC power is switched off and press the start switch in for at least 5 seconds to completely power down the internals. Usually the battery may be pushed in one direction and eased out carefully. Don't touch any of the other electronic parts unless you are wearing a static strap. If you don't have one make sure you touch the metal frame of your computer to discharge static electricity from your body before you start. When handling the battery it's good practice to avoid touching the = + sides of the battery with your fingers as sweat will leave the contact surface prone to corrosion and therefore bad connection. All the best. Neil.