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Expert
154 Answers
- Posted on Oct 03, 2009
Re: Password problems on a Toshiba Protege m200 laptop
If you cannot access the machine after if has been powered up, it is
still possible to get past the BIOS password.
- The BIOS password is
stored in CMOS memory that is maintained while the PC is powered off by
a small battery, which is attached to the motherboard. If you remove
this battery, all CMOS information (including the BIOS password) will
be lost. You will need to re-enter the correct CMOS setup information
to use the machine. The machines owner or user will most likely be
alarmed when it is discovered that the BIOS password has been deleted.
- On some motherboards, the battery is soldered to the motherboard,
making it difficult to remove. If this is the case, you have another
alternative. Somewhere on the motherboard you should find a jumper that
will clear the BIOS password.
- If you have the motherboard
documentation, you will know where that jumper is. If not, the jumper
may be labeled on the motherboard. If you are not fortunate enough for
either of these to be the case, you may be able to guess which jumper
is the correct jumper.
- This jumper is usually standing alone near the
battery. If you cannot locate this jumper, you might short both of the
points where the battery connects to the motherboard.
If all else fails, you may have to clear the BIOS password by
resetting the RTC (Real Time Clock) IC (Integrated Circuit) on your
motherboard.
Many RTC's require an external battery. If your RTC is one of this
type, you can clear the BIOS password just by unsocketing the RTC and
reseating it.
Good luck and more power
nicole
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