How to reset to the BIOS or clear the CMOS

How to reset to the BIOS or clear the CMOS

During troubleshooting, it can be helpful to ensure that the BIOS and CMOS are using their default settings.  Please only proceed with these steps if directed by ZPE Support.

Reset the BIOS to defaults

Note: This process does not apply to Hive SR or Mini SR.
  1. Arrange Console access to the unit using terminal settings:

    1. 115200bps

    2. 8 bits

    3. No parity

    4. 1 stop bit

    5. No flow control

  2. Reboot the system

    1. Login as admin

    2. Issue command: reboot

    3. Confirm reboot: yes

  3. After beep/screen clear, press Del or Esc to access the BIOS

  4. Press F3 to Load Optimized BIOS Defaults

  5. Press F4 to Save and Exit


Clear the CMOS

Note: This process will also reset the BIOS settings.  It is generally only recommended if the BIOS cannot be accessed or applying Optimized BIOS Defaults does not resolve the issue.
  1. Disconnect all power connections
    1. This step is critical!  If the system has power connected during this process, the CMOS will not reset even if the unit is powered off.
  2. Remove the cover of the unit:
    1. NSC/NSCP: Remove the four screws on the top and two on each side of the unit.  Cover should lift up easily.
    2. NSR: Loosen the two spring loaded thumb screws on each module or bay cover.  Then pull each module or bay cover out about 1/2" to allow screw post clearance.  Then remove the three screws on the top and two on each side of the unit.  Cover should lift up easily.
    3. Link SR: Loosen two spring loaded thumb screws to release the cover of the unit. Cover should easily tilt up, then pull outward.
    4. Gate SR: Loosen two spring loaded thumb screws to release the cover of the unit. The thermal pad for the main heatsink is strongly attached.  Lift to tilt up firmly, then pull outward easily.
    5. Bold/Bold SR: Remove two thumb screws to release the cover of the unit. Cover should easily tilt up, then pull outward.
    6. Hive SR: Not recommended.  Requires torque screwdriver, and can damage cover or PC board if done incorrectly.
    7. Mini SR: Not recommended.  Difficult to reassemble due to compact design.
  3. Identify the CMOS battery; note the exact location varies:
    1. NSC/NSCP/NSR: Look for the CR2032 battery connected directly to the main board in a round socket with a spring loaded latch:

    2. Link SR/Gate SR/Bold/Bold SR: Look for a blue wrapped round object mounted vertically.  It will be connected by a set of red/black wires, which may be shrink wrapped in another color, to the main board:

  4. Remove the CMOS battery:
    1. NSC/NSCP/NSR: Use strong thin object to open the latch using a gentle leverage motion.  The battery may automatically pop up when released due to a spring underneath.
    2. Link SR/Gate SR/Bold/Bold SR: Gently unplug the battery wire from the main board.  Be sure to note the location of this connector.
  5. Wait at least 15 seconds
  6. Reinstall the CMOS battery:
    1. NSC/NSCP/NSR: Press battery again the latch to open it, then press downward.  Make sure the battery's labeling is facing upward.
    2. Link SR/Gate SR/Bold/Bold SR: Reconnect the battery wire to the main board. It is keyed to only connect in one direction.
  7. Verify no tools or other objects were left/dropped inside the unit
  8. Reinstall the cover of the unit by reversing removal steps
    1. Only when this step is done, it is safe to reconnect power to the unit.


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