I've recently encountered with my desktop the other day. the problems were like this

  • Computer boots up. and Shows this Message

F1 for Setup and Configuration
F2 to load default values
Checking NVRAM

Once select F2 my computer boots up normaly.

this always happen when I bootup my computer

but upon bootup my time and date settings are incorrect, even if I change them. once I shutdown my PC. they will change again.

am I having CMOS problems? or is there something I am missing?


Yes, it seems like your CMOS battery is starting to die (because of the problem of not being able to permanently reset the time and date in the BIOS).

Before you change the CMOS battery, you should write down all of your current BIOS settings. If you change the CMOS battery, all of your BIOS settings will be reset to their defaults.

Before going to get a new CMOS battery, remove the CMOS battery so that you can read the engraved battery model number on the top side of the battery. Take the old battery with you when you buy a new one to make sure that the new battery is the same size and model number as the old one.

CMOS battery


It sound like your CMOS battery in your PC is failing. This is easy to fix. Open up your computer and find the battery. It looks like the picture below:

CMOS battery

If the CR# is visible, just write it down. If not, you can gently remove the battery with a small screwdriver and it will be written on one of the sided. Also, make a note of which side is positive (+) so you can be sure to put the battery in the correct way once you have the CR#.

CR#'s are standardized, so any brand that matches that number will be the right size and voltage. Once you have the proper CR# you can order a new one online, or go to your local RadioShack, or equivalent.

You do not have to worry about losing your settings like another poster answered. CMOS will retain its setting for about 10-15 minutes after the battery is removed. So after you have your new battery, just pry the old one out and put the new one in (again make sure you put it in the right way).