Is this a desktop or laptop? If its a desktop on the main board should be a jumper to clear CMOS. If its there move the jumper to the other two pins and turn on the system. Wait for about 5 seconds and then move it back. Once that is done you may have to configure the BIOS.
Question. Why dont you get the Password from the person who set it? Please let us (Tek-tips members) know if the solutions we provide are helpful to you. Not only do they help you but they may help others.
jb,
I am not familiar with the model you are using or the mobo.
However if you cannot find the jumper, or if the mobo does
not have a clear jumper(Dell optiplex 100 syndrome) then
as a last resort you can try to remove the cmos battery and then reseat it after a few minutes.
For anyone else posting to this, the Compaq Armada is a Laptop, and a good one. Heavy, as the usual configuration is fully loaded (its practically a desktop) and not very user friendly for modification. Just voice of experience. Unfortunately, I can't suggest anything new for your problem but I do think that marsd is right about removing the battery. If that doesn't work, try a basic bootdisk for DOS (if you can find one) possibly, though I don't think that'll be it.
There is a program called "Killcmos" on the net that will reset your cmos settings (inc password)but you need to put it on a bootable floppy.
Question: How do I clear the Power On Password if it is not known?
Answer:
Clearing Passwords
The power-on password prevents use of the computer until the password is entered. The setup password prevents unauthorized changes to Computer Setup. To clear the passwords, you must remove all power from the system board. If you do not know the passwords, use the following procedure to clear the password:
1. Remove all battery packs from the battery bay and MultiBay, if applicable.
2. Disconnect the AC power.
3. Remove the real-time clock battery.
4. Wait five minutes.
5. Reconnect the AC power.
6. Restart the computer. During Power-On Self Test (POST), a "162 System Options not set" message appears.
7. Shut down the computer, then disconnect AC power again.
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