On Mon, 24 Dec 2007 23:50:35 -0800 (PST), Robert
<magineeer@hotmail.com> wrote:
> On Dec 24, 10:54 am, "Ken Blake, MVP"
> <kbl...@this.is.am.invalid.domain> wrote:
> > On Sun, 23 Dec 2007 21:29:57 -0800 (PST), Robert
> >
> > <magine...@hotmail.com> wrote:
> > > I was just wondering, how is one to know when to replace the computer
> > > battery?
> >
> > When the old one dies. You will know that because typically the system
> > clock will start losing time when the computer is powered *off*.
> >
> > > I have a Dell Dimension 8200 with XP which I bought in 2002 I
> > > believe.
> >
> > Although batteries sometimes last more than 5 years, you've gotten
> > good life out of yours. But don't expect it to last much longer.
> >
> > > I recently upgraded my hard drive and cd-drive to a dvd/rw
> > > drive so I have no problems about opening the case and doing this.
> > > Also are batteries all the same
> >
> > A number of years ago, there were several different types in use. Most
> > are the same these days, but to be sure, you can remove yours and take
> > it to the store with you. Or just copy down the info on it.
> >
> > It isn't always necessary these days, but I am always more comfortable
> > having a hard copy of all the BIOS settings before removing the
> > battery, so if necessary I can put back anything that got reset when
> > the battery was removed. You can make a copy by going into the BIOS
> > setup program and copying everything down by hand. Although there are
> > often automated ways to do this, it only takes a few minutes with a
> > pencil and paper.
> >
> > > and can I just go to Radio Shack to
> > > buy this or should I order online from Newegg? or?
> >
> > Considering that these cost only a few dollars, and that I would want
> > to minimize the time without a good battery installed, I just pick one
> > up locally. Radio Shack is about as good a place as any.
> >
> > --
> > Ken Blake, Microsoft MVP Windows - Shell/User
> > Please Reply to the Newsgroup
>
>
>
> I know this is going to sound simple minded, but just where is the
> BIOS settings so that I can copy the information down in case I need
> to reset things back to normal?
How to get into your BIOS depends, not on Windows, but on what
motherboard/BIOS you have. As a matter of fact, you have to access the
BIOS before Windows even starts to boot. One common way is to press
the Del key when you first power on, but that's not necessarily right
for your computer. Watch the screen carefully when you first boot;
there's often a message there telling you what to do. If not, check
your system documentation or check with your vendor.
Also look here:
http://michaelstevenstech.com/bios_manufacturer.htm Or
just try the Del key. There's a good chance that's correct for you.
> Even though I haven't noticed a
> difference with my computer I suppose I should replace the battery
> before I do, given it's age.
I wouldn't, but it's your choice, of course.
> Is there anything else I should know or
> do?
The most important thing, before putting your hands inside the box, is
to discharge any static electricity by touching a ground. Static
discharges can zap components inside the box.
--
Ken Blake, Microsoft MVP Windows - Shell/User
Please Reply to the Newsgroup