BIOS codes 0251 and 0271 (CMOS prob?)

[riddlermarc]

Hi,

Newbie here but a relatively long time lurker.. I bought a T23 cheap a few weeks ago which would always flash up BIOS errors 0251 and 0271 (check date and time settings). No problem I thought, easy fix!

I bought a new CMOS battery assuming it would be that but it's still doing the same thing.. any ideas, please? It works fine if I leave it plugged into the mains (as you'd expect) but I bought this for the missus to keep here off my T43 so I need it mobile! I don't suppose there is any way I can check if the new CMOS battery is actually working/connecting properly?

I'm guessing:
1 - the battery somehow isn't connecting properly, although I carefully threaded it through the holder like the original
2 - something more major is at fault

Thanks in advance,
Marc

[Six_Shooter]

You can use a DMM (Digital Multimeter) to check the voltage of the replacement battery. IIRC it should be 3 volts.

There might also be a problem with the connector or circuit traces that connect the CMOS battery to the components on the MoBo.

If there is anything else that causes these issues I don't know, I'm still a newbie when it comes to diagnosis of TP problems.

[RealBlackStuff]

Hi, and welcome to our forums.

If you look at the bottom of your TP, you'll find the IBM Type/Model such as 2647-4MU.
On this webpage, http://tinyurl.com/2kw6lp change it into your specific type/model and you can see what your TP originally contained.
You'll find all drivers, BIOS updates, manuals etc. there as well.
Also click there on 'Drivers and Software' and get the PC Doctor to diagnose your TP.
Make sure you get the Hardware Maintenance Manual (under 'User's guides and manuals' on the left).
Print that out (ca. 170 sheets single print or 85 pages when you fit 2 pages on 1 sheet). It's an invaluable help to take your TP apart (quite easy).

Contrary to popular belief, the T23 can take 2x 512MB (1GB total) RAM.

To help other people answer your questions better, put the TP model in your 'signature' in the Profile section (see mine).

[ajkula66]

If you got your new CMOS battery off of eBay, there's a good chance that it's a piece of garbage...I've received many "new" ones that were absolutely useless...