[OT] Cannot save BIOS settings

[jludwig]

On Thursday 23 February 2006 19:17, Tod Merley wrote:
> > Date: Thu, 23 Feb 2006 16:51:28 -0500
> > From: "James He" <icrazy at gmail.com>
> > Subject: [OT] Cannot save BIOS settings
> > To: fedora-list at redhat.com
> > Message-ID:
> >        <fd0f51b90602231351h361b635cx4da7fce0941a8534 at mail.gmail.com>
> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
> >
> > Hi, all!
> >
> > This might be off-topic, but since we are running FC on this machine,
> > so maybe you can help.
> >
> > I replaced a bad motherboard with a new one for one computer and the
> > computer started to be working again. The only problem now is that I
> > am not able to save the BIOS(Phoenix) setting on that computer, that
> > is to say, the default setting will always come back automatically.
> > This is not acceptable, for we need to boot the computer from network,
> > but the default booting sequence prefers to boot from hard disk, on
> > which we do have a bootable operating system.
> >
> > The BIOS reset jumper is in its normal place, and I even changed the
> > battery on the motherboard to see how it goes -- the problem remained.
> >
> > Thanks in advance!
> >
> > --
> > Best regards,
> >
> > James He
>
> Hi James!
>
> I would be doing the following:
>
> 0. Making sure I am using the proper procedure to save the settings as I
> leave the CMOS setup program.  Some have the ability to exit without saving
> permitting the use of the settings one time only.  I would make sure that I
> save and exit. I would also look at any CMOS security settings just in
> case.
>
> 1. Reading the MB manual with specific attention concerning how the CMOS is
> powered and controlled.  I often find these PDF on the web if they are not
> in hand.
>
> 2. Measuring the actual CMOS battery voltages - with a volt meter out of
> box and with a simulated load if I could figure out with that was (if it
> holds with a 1K resistor my guess is that it is fine).  I would also look
> into measuring it as it feeds the CMOS on the MB (very carefully of
> course!!).
>
> 3. Taking some time to clean and look at very closely the battery holder
> and associated parts.
>
> 4. I would try removing or changing the CMOS jumper you mention and also
> take a good look it it's integrity and clean the posts as well and try
> another jumper.
>
> 5. If all this did not clear the problem, considering another MB.
>
> Good Hunting!
>
> Tod
These batteries deliver micro-amps. Maybe a 100k resistor.
(They usually last 3 to 5 years in service.)
-- 
Some people have convictions.
Some people have opinions
I think I'll have a cheeseburger!