Re: [OT?]Re: pc doesn't start

[Mark Allums <mark@allums.com>]

Wackojacko wrote:
> Redirecting to list
>
> Sudev Barar wrote:
> > 2008/7/30 Wackojacko <wackojacko32@ntlworld.com>:
> > > I was refering to the coin cell that some motherboards have for 
> > > keeping bios
> > > settings between reboots.
> > >
> > > The OP mentioned that removing the BIOS battery for a few minutes 
> > > helps the
> > > PC start so maybe it just gives the battery enough time to recover 
> > > enough
> > > charge for the reboot.  Just a guess.
> >
> > This means battery is having charge but removing it is causing BIOS to
> > reset to defaults. So is not likely problem.
> > Waiting an hour resolves this problem. Which means battery is not good
> > and waiting and hour resets BIOS (I am contradicting myself)
> >
> > But why would running the client load BIOS with some useless settings
> > that go away when BIOS resets?
> > Hmmm wish I could contribute more....
>
> Me too!  I just remember reading that a dead, or dying, BIOS Battery can 
> lead to trouble getting the PC to POST, why I don't know.  If you can 
> get your hands on another battery to test this it might be cheaper than 
> a new PSU :)
>
> HTH
>
> Wackojacko

Those "coin batteries" are typically 2025's or 2032's, and are quite 
common.  In the US, Wal*Mart carries them.  Elsewhere, try the local 
Wal*Mart equivalent, e.g. Tesco, or Radio Shack, or the local computer 
parts store should have some.  Some are lithium, some are alkaline, it 
really doesn't matter, they are fairly cheap either way.  I keep some on 
hand, not only do my computers use them, but the car "zapper" 
locker/unlocker uses them, and so does my blood sugar test meter.


Mark Allums