CMOS Problem

I have a PC loaded with Windows XP. Each time I turn it off and return say 2 or 3 days later (backup) and turn it on, I get a CMOS failed Defaults loaded message. When viewing my CMOS, I see that the date as reverted back to the original date of installation not the present date and time which was set. I can reset this feature and save and the PC will load normally. Turn it off for a few days - same results.

 

Probably a weak or dead CMOS battery. It's a button cell, usually about the size of a quarter-dollar coin and on the main board somewhere.

 

joe645

sounds like you need to replace the CMOS Battery

Sven


Looks like we posted at the same time

 

Agreed - it sounds like the battery. These are typically CR2032 and can be found for a few dollars at just about any battery/camera/watch counter. Make sure you unplug the computer from the wall before starting, then remove the side panel. Touch bare metal of the case to discharge any static in your body, and to put you and the computer at the same potential.

Then carefully remove the old battery, taking note of the polarity. Take the old battery with you as most counters also recycle.

Do NOT touch the new battery with bare skin (I put a clean sock over my hand). Skin oils promote corrosion and attract dust. Touch bare metal again, and insert the battery.

While inside, make sure the interior is clean of heat trapping dust.

The very first time you power up, go directly into the BIOS setup menu. This is done by pressing the required key early in the boot process, typically the Del or F1 key, but your computer may be different. Watch for the prompt.

Once in, reset your date and time, then Save and Exit to boot normally and all "should" be fine after that.