How Do I Remove the CMOS Battery on an ASUS M3A Motherboard?

Changing the CMOS battery in your PC involves accessing the motherboard.

After using your computer for several years, it may become necessary to change the Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor battery on the computer's motherboard. The CMOS battery is essentially a backup battery that keeps your computer's clock running while the computer is turned off. When this battery runs down or quits, the clock will no longer keep accurate time when you turn your computer on. The CMOS battery can also cause other PC errors, so it's best to remove it and replace it with a new one as soon as you notice it beginning to fail.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Lithium replacement battery

Instructions

1. Power down your computer and unplug all the cords from the back of the tower.

2. Unscrew the screws securing the side of the case and remove the side so you are looking directly at the motherboard of your computer. Locate the CMOS battery--a round, flat lithium battery--on the motherboard. On the Asus M3A motherboard, the battery is located on the left-hand side, near the white PCI slots.

3. Pull the battery gently upward to lift it out of its slot.

4. Slide the new battery into the slot. Make sure it is in place securely and that the positive side of the battery is facing toward you.

5. Replace the side of your case and secure it with the screws provided. Plug all the cords back into your computer.

6. Power up your computer. You will be prompted to enter the BIOS to set the date and time. Exit the BIOS and allow your computer to boot up. Verify that the time is correct on your operating system.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to discharge static electricity by touching a metal object before working on the inside of your computer. Circuits are susceptible to failure if static electricity is not discharged.

References

• ASUSTek: M3A Motherboard
• Computer Hope: Replacing the CMOS battery