Gateway 6400 - Manual (Page 79)

70 Using the BIOS Setup Utility
Setting the configuration switches
The system board has a configuration switch block related to the BIOS. You
can use specific switches to reset the CMOS settings to the BIOS defaults, or
to erase a misplaced or forgotten password. For the location of the
configuration switch block, see “System board” on page 6.
The Clear Password switch
The Clear Password switch on the system board (SW3) lets you clear the
existing system passwords in case they are misplaced or forgotten, or if the
system administrator is unavailable. For normal operation, SW3 should be set
to the OFF position. To clear the passwords, SW3 should be set to the ON
position. Make sure you turn off the computer and unplug the power cord
before moving the switch.
Once the switch is set to the ON position, passwords will be disabled, allowing
you to go directly to the operating system or to enter the BIOS Setup without
entering a password. To set up a new password, enter the BIOS Setup and enter
the password as you normally would, then turn off the system. Prior to turning
on the system again, open the case, return SW3 back to the OFF position,
then close the case.
The Clear CMOS switch
The Clear CMOS switch on the system board (SW4) lets you clear all BIOS
Setup settings. For normal operation, SW4 should be in the OFF position. To
clear the CMOS settings (and to clear passwords as well), SW4 should be
turned to the ON position. Make sure you turn off the computer and unplug
the power cord before moving the switch.
Caution Moving any of these switches while the power is on can
damage your computer. Always turn off the computer and
unplug the power cord from the computer before changing
switch settings.
05032.book Page 70 Monday, July 10, 2000 11:43 AM