Computers store system information (for example the time) in the so-called BIOS. To ensure the operation of this device, even if the PC is disconnected from the mains, each PC has a battery on the motherboard. If this battery is empty or defective, the BIOS loads into the basic settings and the user receives error messages. Nevertheless, there is no reason to panic, because to change this battery you really do not have to be a hardware specialist. See our step by step guide to change a computer’s BIOS battery.
Change a computer’s BIOS battery
Those who have never ventured to the guts of their PC — or those getting started with a computer as a beginner — should read the manual of the PC before starting the battery replacement. If documentation is not available in print form, it helps to look at the internet. For well-known PC brands and motherboards you can find the user manuals very easily online.
- Pull the power cable.
- If necessary, disconnect other connection cables (eg monitor, mouse, keyboard) from the housing.
- Open housing.
- Carefully remove the battery from the mainboard.
- Insert new battery.
- Close housing.
- Reconnect cable connections.
Tips and what to consider
- The same applies to a PC as to any other electrical device: Never open a PC with the power cable connected!
- If other connecting cables for opening a PC housing have to be disconnected, this sounds worse than it sounds. All plugs of a PC are standardized, color coded and can not be reversed in the rule.
- Another small problem can be the opening of a PC case for the layman. Not only are there different types of housings, but also the mounting of housing covers can be different. Some manufacturers use glands, while others use bolts. The following applies: Read the manual. As a rule, it is only sufficient for tower housings to remove a side wall; for desktops, the cover is removed. Unfortunately, compact enclosures are also very compact on the inside: Especially with mini desktops, you have to expect to have to remove parts before you get to the motherboard.
For laymen this isimportant: Record where which internal cable is connected before you solve it. In order to get better at the motherboard, it is advisable to bring the computer carefully in the case of tower housings in the transverse position.
- Important! Motherboards are very sensitive to static charges. Man is always more or less charged statically. In order not to damage the mainboard it is recommended to make grounding. Basically do not touch more parts on the motherboard than absolutely necessary!
- A BIOS battery is typically a Lithium CR2032 type battery. It is important that exactly the same battery type is changed. Such batteries are available in computer shops and sometimes also with watchmakers.
