What To Know
- Ensure the jumper cap is placed correctly on pins 2 and 3 or that the Clear CMOS button is pressed for long enough.
- Set the time and date manually in the BIOS or operating system after resetting the CMOS.
- Yes, you can use the CMOS jumper or Clear CMOS button to reset the CMOS without removing the battery.
The Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) chip on ASUS motherboards stores critical system settings, including date and time, hardware configurations, and overclocking profiles. Resetting the CMOS can be necessary to resolve system issues, clear forgotten passwords, or restore default settings. This comprehensive guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to reset ASUS motherboard CMOS effectively.
Locating the CMOS Jumper
The CMOS jumper is typically located near the CMOS battery on the motherboard. It is usually labeled as “CLR CMOS,” “CLEAR RTC,” or “RESET CMOS.” The jumper is a two-pin header with a metal jumper cap placed over the pins.
Resetting CMOS Using the Jumper
1. Power off the computer and disconnect it from the power outlet. This is a crucial safety precaution to prevent any electrical damage.
2. Locate the CMOS jumper on the motherboard. Refer to your motherboard manual for the exact location.
3. Remove the jumper cap from the default position. Most motherboards have the jumper cap placed over pins 1 and 2.
4. Move the jumper cap to pins 2 and 3. This will reset the CMOS settings.
5. Wait for a few seconds. This allows the CMOS chip to discharge.
6. Move the jumper cap back to its default position. This will restore power to the CMOS chip.
7. Reconnect the power cord and turn on the computer.
Resetting CMOS Using the Clear CMOS Button
Some ASUS motherboards have a dedicated Clear CMOS button instead of a jumper.
1. Power off the computer and disconnect it from the power outlet.
2. Locate the Clear CMOS button on the motherboard. It is usually a small button near the CMOS battery.
3. Press and hold the Clear CMOS button for a few seconds. This will reset the CMOS settings.
4. Reconnect the power cord and turn on the computer.
Resetting CMOS Using the BIOS
1. Power on the computer and enter the BIOS settings. This is typically done by pressing the “Del” or “F2” key during the boot-up process.
2. Navigate to the “Settings” or “Advanced” tab.
3. Look for the “Reset to Default” or “Load Optimized Defaults” option.
4. Select the option and press “Enter.”
5. Confirm the reset and exit the BIOS.
Troubleshooting CMOS Reset Issues
- CMOS settings not resetting: Ensure the jumper cap is placed correctly on pins 2 and 3 or that the Clear CMOS button is pressed for long enough.
- Computer not booting after CMOS reset: Check if the jumper cap is placed back in its default position or if any other hardware components are loose.
- Incorrect system time and date: Set the time and date manually in the BIOS or operating system after resetting the CMOS.
Additional Tips
- Note down important BIOS settings before resetting the CMOS. This will help you restore them easily after the reset.
- Resetting the CMOS can clear overclocking profiles. You may need to reconfigure overclocking settings after a reset.
- Keep the CMOS battery in place. Removing the battery will also reset the CMOS, but it can also lead to data corruption if the battery is removed for an extended period.
Wrap-Up: Mastering ASUS Motherboard CMOS Reset
Resetting the CMOS on ASUS motherboards is a straightforward procedure that can resolve various system issues. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively clear CMOS settings and restore your system to its default configuration. Remember to take necessary safety precautions and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. With this knowledge, you can confidently maintain and optimize your ASUS motherboard for optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I reset the CMOS?
A: CMOS reset is typically only necessary when troubleshooting system issues or clearing forgotten passwords.
Q: Will resetting the CMOS delete my files?
A: No, resetting the CMOS does not affect personal files stored on hard drives or SSDs.
Q: What happens if I remove the CMOS battery for an extended period?
A: Removing the CMOS battery for an extended period can cause data corruption and loss of BIOS settings.
Q: Can I reset the CMOS without removing the battery?
A: Yes, you can use the CMOS jumper or Clear CMOS button to reset the CMOS without removing the battery.
Q: Why is the CMOS jumper not resetting my settings?
A: Ensure the jumper cap is placed correctly on pins 2 and 3 and that the power is disconnected from the computer for a few seconds.
