Problem with CPU internal cache

[Qbart]

I have stupidly messed with my BIOS/CMOS settings. My problem all started when I screwed up my hard drive trying to partition it. I have a Pentium 200 with 64mb of ram running windows 95. I did a complete format of my hard drive and reloaded windows. I have noticed that my computer is running slower than it did before. When I looked in the PC Guide it says that the CPU's internal cache should be enabled, don't ask me why I messed with the BIOS/CMOS settings in the first place. Mine wasn't so I enabled it, but now when I try to boot up my computer with it enabled it gives me Windows protection error or something like fault at IOS cxxxxx-xxxxx or it tries to reboot itself. I posted a problem earlier about my MP3's not playing right, I think this is the cause of the problem. What can I do to fix this, my computer was running good before I messed with it.

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DOH!

[kenja]

I think I'd look on the motherboard for a jumper that says "CMOS Clear" or remove the button-cell battery for a minute or two (assuming it's not soldered in). This should take you back to square one: the default state of the BIOS settings.

I don't know why the machine would run slower after reinstalling Windows unless there were programs running in the background. On Win98, I run "msconfig" to shut down these "features" that were added by the OEM on the restore disk. If you're installing from a Microsoft CD, that would not be the case. Somewhere in these forums is an explanation of how to shut down background programs on Windows 95.

[This message has been edited by kenja (edited 01-22-2001).]

[Paleo Pete]

When you boot the machine go into BIOS and look for a "Restore Default Settings" option. Run this option, recheck boot sequence, hard drive parameters, and floppy drive settings, make sure they are correct, save changes and reboot.

You might also have "Set Performance Defaults". If so you might set that one instead, it configures the machine for basic performance optimums.

In either case, check the serial port settings, if COM2, 2F8 is disabled, make sure and check it as well after making changes. That is related to the modem, if enabled you might suddenly find your modem no longer working.

Write down all changes, as well as original settings, so you can change it back easily if necessary. Original settings to note are: Hard drive parameters, floppy settings, serial ports, boot sequence, Power Management, Internal and External cacheing. IN general it's best to make changes one at a time, so you know the last change is the cause if you have problems.

BIOS Survival Guide (http://www.manawatu.gen.nz/pages/bios_survival/bios_sg.htm)

PC GUide BIOS Settings (http://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/set/index.htm)

Definitive BIOS Optimization Guide (http://www.adriansrojakpot.com/Speed_Demonz/BIOS_Guide/BIOS_Guide_Index.htm)

Troubleshooting Windows Protection Errors (http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/Q149/9/62.asp) may also help.



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