Setting the configuration switches
The system board has a configuration switch block related to the BIOS. You can use specific switches to reset the CMOS settings to the BIOS defaults, or to erase a misplaced or forgotten password. For the location of the configuration switch block, see “System board” on page 6.
Caution Moving any of these switches while the power is on can damage your computer. Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the computer before changing switch settings.
The Clear Password switch
The Clear Password switch on the system board (SW3) lets you clear the existing system passwords in case they are misplaced or forgotten, or if the system administrator is unavailable. For normal operation, SW3 should be set to the OFF position. To clear the passwords, SW3 should be set to the ON position. Make sure you turn off the computer and unplug the power cord before moving the switch.
Once the switch is set to the ON position, passwords will be disabled, allowing you to go directly to the operating system or to enter the BIOS Setup without entering a password. To set up a new password, enter the BIOS Setup and enter the password as you normally would, then turn off the system. Prior to turning on the system again, open the case, return SW3 back to the OFF position, then close the case.
The Clear CMOS switch
The Clear CMOS switch on the system board (SW4) lets you clear all BIOS Setup settings. For normal operation, SW4 should be in the OFF position. To clear the CMOS settings (and to clear passwords as well), SW4 should be turned to the ON position. Make sure you turn off the computer and unplug the power cord before moving the switch.
70Using the BIOS Setup Utility