How to Resetting the CMOS

Resetting the CMOS
There is only one other way to get past the BIOS password. It involves discharging the static memory (CMOS) used to store the password and other system information. Once it is discharged, however, you have to reset all the system settings by hand.

Follow these steps:

1. Start up the computer a. If the system allows it, enter the Setup Screen (Usually by pressing F1, DEL or INS during the memory check)
2. Record all the Setup Information. Double Check.
3. Turn off the computer
4. Remove the casing, and put the computer on the ground in such a way that you can see and access the side of the motherboard with the processor on it.
5. Look at the motherboard
6. If you can see a round, disc-like battery, then remove it, and let the computer sit without the battery for 15-30 minutes. Put the battery back in.
7. If you have access to the circuit diagrams for the motherboard, look in there for the password or CMOS jumper. Flip it on and off.
8. Look for a blue, soldered-in battery with a jumper running off of it. This jumper is for connecting an external battery. Pull it out for 15-30 min. to reset the CMOS.
9. Replace the computer casing.
10. Enter the Setup Screen, and set the Setup Information back to the original values that you (hopefully) recorded.

If you were unable to record the setup info, then you'll just have to set it up manually. Some newer Plug & Play BIOSes have an autodetect feature that automatically sets-up the hard disk and other items.

Again, I would like to mention that there are numerous password extractors available for free off the internet and on BBSes. Try those first: they are much cleaner and easier-to-use.