If your computer is experiencing issues such as losing time or date settings, displaying messages like CMOS Read Error, CMOS checksum error, or CMOS Battery Failure, or encountering a loss of display – as observed by some users using mini PCs where all indicators appear correct, RAM is properly inserted, yet there's no display – the problem may lie in the CMOS. It retains certain errors and fails to show any information on the hardware. In such cases, removing the CMOS battery and attempting the process again might be necessary.
Before opening your computer, ensure you are mindful of ElectroStatic Discharge (ESD) and its potential hazards. ESD is a significant threat that can lead to damage or the destruction of your computer or its components. Similar to the shock experienced when rubbing your feet on the carpet and touching a metal object, ESD can occur during computer maintenance, causing touched components to malfunction. ESD may transpire without the user sensing a shock, particularly while working inside the computer or handling hardware like expansion cards. The most effective means of preventing ESD is by using an ESD wrist strap, grounding mat, or grounding workbench. However, recognizing that not all users have access to such equipment, we have outlined the steps below to minimize the risk of ESD as much as possible.
For our mini PC, once you've removed the CMOS battery, reconnect the power adapter and switch on the mini PC. At this point, it should display normally, confirming that there are no underlying hardware issues with the computer. After this, power it off, disconnect the power plug, and then reinstall the CMOS battery. Once the CMOS battery is back in place, everything should operate normally.
