Locate the CMOS chip that contains the BIOS near the CMOS battery.
A computer's BIOS (Basic Input Output System) is a firmware program that dictates how the computer's motherboard communicates and initializes the hardware connected to it. This firmware program is encoded onto the CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) chip. In certain circumstances, such as after a failed BIOS update, this chip must be located for replacement or repair. Furthermore, CMOS chips may be updated to newer chips containing larger BIOS programs that are capable of more advanced functions.
Instructions
1. Disconnect the computer from any electrical sources and remove the side access panel. This may require removing one or more thumbscrews on the rear face of the computer case.
2. Examine the area directly adjacent to the PCI slots and CMOS battery. The CMOS battery is the only flat, round battery on the motherboard.
3. Locate the words "CMOS" or "BIOS" on the motherboard in these areas. These words will be printed on the motherboard directly next to the BIOS chip.
4. Examine the chip for a manufacturer title matching that of the BIOS manufacturer. For example, a BIOS written by the AWARD company will have "AWARD" written directly on the forward-facing portion of the BIOS chip. This label is written onto a 3D holographic label in many cases.
Tags: CMOS battery, BIOS chip, firmware program