New CMOS still getting checksum error

[MonicaT]

This is on my kids' computer which is pretty old. They were getting a checksum error on boot up so I changed the CMOS. The first time I booted after that, I still got a checksum error then it shut itself down.

I'm sorry that I do not remember what their mobo is but the processor is an AMD Duron if that helps any.

Is there anything else I can do to get their system up and running without spending a fortune or is this a case of "Good grief, it's ancient! Just dump it" kind of thing?

[saphalline]

When you say you "changed the CMOS", do you mean you updated the BIOS version or you changed the CR2032 button cell on the mobo? If you changed the battery out for a new one, exactly how did you do this?

[mjc]

CMOS is a type of memory chip. In order to keep the settings stored on it it requires a small amount of power. The CMOS battery provides this power and also runs the clock...

BIOS is a program that starts the computer. It is stored on a different kind of memory chip, an electronically programable Read Only Memory chip. These chips have a limited number of 'burn' cycles--times they can be reprogrammed. The BIOS settings are meant to be changed, so another method of keeping them was found...the CMOS memory chips.

[MonicaT]

When you say you "changed the CMOS", do you mean you updated the BIOS version or you changed the CR2032 button cell on the mobo? If you changed the battery out for a new one, exactly how did you do this?

I changed the button cell on the mobo. I just took it out and put in a new one.

[saphalline]

How long did you wait between swapping out the batteries? Was the system unplugged when you did this? Did you clear the CMOS using the jumper on the mobo?

[MonicaT]

How long did you wait between swapping out the batteries? Was the system unplugged when you did this? Did you clear the CMOS using the jumper on the mobo?

Yes the system was unplugged. I got the battery the next morning after getting the checksum error but didn't remove the old one until I had the new one right there to put in. I have no idea how to clear the CMOS using the jumper so I'll say no to that one.

[saphalline]

To make sure the CMOS is completely erased, unplug the system and remove the battery for a good 10 minutes. This works in lieu of a jumper, and is often easier than hunting for a jumper when you have other things to do. After the 10 minutes is up, put the battery back in and fire it up!

[MonicaT]

Thank you! I've got it out right now so we'll see how it goes in 10 minutes.

OK, I just did that and it's still not doing anything. No beeps, nothing. That sounds like the problem would be with the power supply. I double checked to make sure that everything was connected properly and still got nothing.

[saphalline]

If it's no longer doing so much as powering up anymore, then yes, that's a PSU problem. Buy a new PSU (preferably from a vendor that offers a no-hassle return policy) and try it out. You'll want one that is equal or greater than your current PSU. Rough estimate for a Duron system: 300-350W.