How to Hard Reset a Zire

There are two methods for resetting a Palm Zire handheld device. The first, known as a "soft" reset, is used when the Zire's operating system has locked up; it will attempt to restart the device while keeping all saved data in memory. The second method is a "hard" reset, which both restarts the device and erases any saved data contained within. The "soft" reset is the recommended method of dealing with a non-responsive Zire; however, it does not always result in success, leaving the "hard" reset as a last resort.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper clip (optional)

1. Turn on your computer. Open the "HotSync Manager" application. Confirm that the desired synchronization method is selected; if necessary, connect your Zire to your computer via USB cable.

2. Go the Zire's "Home" screen. Select the option labeled "HotSync." Choose the appropriate synchronization method and tap the "HotSync" button with your stylus. Wait for the synchronization process to complete (this may take several minutes).

3. Hold down the power button and turn the Zire over. Locate the small opening in the rear panel of the device.

4. Insert the tip of the stylus into the opening and apply pressure to depress the reset button. Return the Zire to its upright position and wait for the Palm logo to appear; release the power button. When prompted, confirm that you wish to perform a hard reset.

5. Locate the "HotSync" icon in your computer's taskbar. Right-click on the icon and select the option labeled "Custom." Select the appropriate user name from the list of options.

6. Select an application and click on the button labeled "Change." Select the option labeled "Desktop overwrites handheld." Click "OK." Repeat with any other applications you wish to restore. Click "Done."

7. Synchronize your Zire as normal; this will restore the backup data to your handheld.

Tips & Warnings

• If you cannot find your Zire's stylus, you can use a small paper clip to press the internal reset button; unfold the paper clip and insert one end into the opening on the rear of the device If you find that your device freezes often, try deleting any recently-installed applications; some third-party applications may malfunction and cause the Zire's operating system to hang.
• Some freezes are temporary; if the Zire loses network connectivity, for example, it may lock up while it tries to reestablish a connection. Wait 30 seconds before attempting to reset your device. After a hard reset, you will have to reset certain settings, such as the current date and time. Any customizations, such as an altered home screen background, will have to be redone; restoring backup data via synchronization will not restore these settings.

References

• Palm Zire 31 User's Guide (PDF)