Resetting the CMOS battery clears the BIOS settings on your computer's motherboard, reverting them to factory defaults. Here's a step-by-step guide based on information provided by Intel on how to do it:
Steps to Reset the CMOS Battery
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Turn off all peripheral devices: Disconnect any devices connected to your computer, such as printers, external hard drives, etc.
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Disconnect the power cord: Unplug the power cord from the AC power source. This is crucial for safety and to ensure the CMOS chip loses power.
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Remove the computer cover: Open your computer case to access the motherboard.
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Locate the CMOS battery: The CMOS battery is usually a small, coin-sized battery (CR2032) on the motherboard. It's often silver and easily identifiable.
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Remove the battery:
- Carefully detach the battery. This might involve pressing a small clip to release it from its holder.
- Important: Note the orientation of the battery before removing it for proper reinstallation.
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Wait: Allow 1–5 minutes (Intel recommends this timeframe) for the CMOS to fully discharge and reset. This step is crucial to ensure that the BIOS settings are cleared.
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Reinstall the battery: Place the CMOS battery back into its holder, ensuring the correct orientation.
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Replace the computer cover: Close your computer case.
Once you've completed these steps, plug the power cord back in and turn on your computer. Your BIOS settings will be reset to their default values. You may need to enter the BIOS setup during startup to configure settings like boot order and date/time.
