4 Pics 1 Word: Guess the Hidden Connection

CMOS
Battery
ICT CSS 9
 Objectives:
○ Explain the function of CMOS battery in
computers.
○ Formulate facts about the functions and
troubleshooting of CMOS battery in computers.
○ Appreciate the role of small components in the
overall functionality of computers.
What is
CMOS?
CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor)

 is a lithium battery provides power to chip on the

motherboard in order to store information like the
system time and date, BIOS settings, and other critical
data when the computer is powered off.
 Without a functioning CMOS battery, your computer
would not be able to keep track of basic information
like the correct time or retain custom BIOS settings.
The CMOS battery, also known as the
RTC (real-time clock) battery, is a
special battery that provides power to the
CMOS chip on a computer’s
motherboard. This chip, usually located
near the BIOS chip, stores basic system
information like the date, time and BIOS
settings.
Nearly all modern computers contain a
small, flat, coin-shaped battery. It
usually lasts between 2-5 years before
needing replacement. The most common
types of batteries used are the CR2032
and CR2025 lithium coin cell batteries.
Some older computers may use a
CR2354 or BR2032 CMOS battery.
CR2032
CR2025
CR2354
BR2032
 Functions of CMOS
1. Store Date and Time
One of the CMOS battery’s main task is to
allow the computer to keep track of the current date
and time. This allows the operating system to
maintain the correct date and time even when the
computer is powered off. Without a functional
battery, the system time will reset to a default date
every time you restart your computer.
 Functions of CMOS
2. Save BIOS Settings
The CMOS chip also stores user-configured
BIOS settings, such as boot order, overclocking
parameters, and enabled/disabled devices. When
you modify BIOS settings, these configuration
changes are stored to the CMOS chip and will
remain even when power is removed. This allows
your custom BIOS settings to persist.
 Functions of CMOS
3. Power-On Self Tests
Each time a computer boots, the CMOS runs
through a series of power-on self-tests (POST) to
check that hardware components like drives, ports,
and RAM are functioning correctly before booting
into the operating system. The CMOS battery
allows these POST results and errors to be logged
and reviewed later for troubleshooting.
 Functions of CMOS
4. BMC/IPMI Support
Server-grade and some consumer
motherboards include a BMC (baseboard
management controller) for remote management
and monitoring. The CMOS battery keeps the
BMC powered when the system is off so
administrators can remotely access it.
 Troubleshooting CMOS Battery Issue
Symptoms Steps to Troubleshoot
Incorrect Date and Time • Check the date/time in the operating system and
If your computer shows the incorrect date and BIOS setup. If incorrect, the CMOS battery is
time in the system tray or in the BIOS setup likely bad.
screen, the CMOS battery may be depleted. • Replacing the battery should allow the system to
The system time will reset to the default date, maintain the proper date and time.
often January 1, 2001.

BIOS Settings Reset

When your custom BIOS settings • Enter BIOS setup and load optimized defaults, then
suddenly revert back to the factory defaults. reconfigure your custom settings.
This happens because the CMOS is unable to • If settings revert again on next boot, the CMOS
retain your configured BIOS parameters like battery needs to be replaced.
boot order, overclock settings, or hard drive
configurations.
 Booting Issues

 Failure to POST (power-on self-

test).
 Boot loops
 Boot failure errors.
 Booting Issues
Operating system crashes
If you experience boot problems
along with CMOS-related issues like
loss of date/time or BIOS settings,
consider replacing the CMOS battery.
 CMOS Battery
Replacement Steps:
1. Power Off and Unplug Computer
First power off and unplug your
computer from the power source to
avoid potential electrical shorts. It’s also
safe practice to press and hold the power
button for 5-10 seconds to discharge any
residual power after unplugging.
2. Locate and Remove Old Battery
Refer to your computer or motherboard
manual to locate the CMOS battery housing on
the motherboard. Often labeled “RTC” or
“CMOS”, it will hold a small watch-style
lithium battery. Note the orientation of the + and
– sides if marked. Use a small flathead
screwdriver to gently pry and remove the old
battery from its holder.
3. Insert New Battery
Have your new CR2032 or other CMOS
replacement battery ready. Match the orientation
of the positive and negative sides to the original
battery if indicators are present around the
holder. The positive (+) side usually faces up
from the motherboard surface. Press the new
battery down firmly and ensure it is seated
properly in the holder.
4. Reassemble and Power On
Close up the computer case
and reconnect any internal cables
you may have detached. Plug in
the power cable and turn on the
PC.
ACTIVITY
TIME!
Instruction: Group yourselves into
two (2). Within seven minutes, you
will construct five statements about
CMOS answerable by “TRUE” or
“FALSE”. After which, group 1 will
throw their first statement to group 2.
Instruction: Read and analyze the following statements. Identify
what is asked in the statements. Write your answer on your paper.
1. What is the complete meaning of the word CMOS?
2. CMOS is also known as?
3-4. What is the older computer use in terms of CMOS?
5. What is the main task of a CMOS battery?
6. Without a functional battery, the system time will __________ to a default date every time you
restart your computer.
7. One of the functions of CMOS that runs through power-on self-test (POST).
8. One of the functions of CMOS that keeps the BMC powered when the system is off so
administrators can remotely access it.
9-10. Give two issues that you may encounter in CMOS battery.
AGREEMENT:
Have an advance reading on what makes a
computer work. What components are there in a
computer?
“Love is like a battery; when it runs
low, recharge it to keep the
connection alive.”
—Anonymous