One of the ways to reset a BIOS password on your Dell Latitude laptop is by resetting the CMOS memory. The BIOS password allows you to load your operating system when you start the Dell laptop. The BIOS password is stored in the CMOS memory. It is maintained while the PC is powered off by a small battery, attached to the motherboard.
Instructions
1. Turn off your Dell Latitude 100L. Unplug the power adapter from the main power source. Unplug the other end of the adapter from the power port on your laptop. Close the display panel.
2. Turn the laptop upside down. Wait for at least 10 minutes to cool the laptop down if you have been using it for long period of time.
3. Push the battery release button. This will remove the battery from the battery compartment.
4. Find the CMOS battery compartment in the left corner of the laptop battery compartment. It is a black circular object. Push the CMOS battery compartment latch gently. This will remove the cover, thus revealing the battery.
5. Remove the CMOS battery gently from its compartment. Unplug it from the grounding cable. Wait for about an hour or so.
6. Reconnect the battery cable and place the CMOS battery pack (that you removed earlier) back to its original spot.
7. Place the main battery back to its original place. The battery should snap into place.
8. Open the Latitude laptop display. Reconnect the power adapter to a power source. Push the power button.
Tags: battery compartment, CMOS battery, adapter from, back original, BIOS password