How to reset IBM Aptiva's BIOS Password?

co_regular · 09-09-2006, 08:28 PM

Hi,

I have an IBM Aptiva PC (PII-350MHz). I have not activated neither the System Password nor the Setup PAssword of the BIOS. However, a week ago, the system suddendly asked for a password. I'm the only user of this PC. Is there a virus that activates System and Setup passwords? How can I reset the passwords. I've never used my PC since then. I've already tried removing the system battery and it was not able to reset the passwords. I've also tried pressing the two mouse buttons during boot up (as per advise by some technies). Unfortunately, it didn't work either.

I hope somebody could shed some light.

Thanks in advance.

Sincerely,

Omar Regular

Will.Spencer · 09-10-2006, 12:48 AM

What is the Type and Model number for your Aptiva?

Here's where to look for them:

co_regular · 09-11-2006, 10:33 PM

Sir,

My PC is like the third one from left (as shown in the picture that you gave).

The sticker on the pc was removed. I'm still trying to find it.

Omar

Will.Spencer · 09-11-2006, 11:41 PM

This case is only seen on the following IBM Machine Types:

2136
2137
2138
2139
2164
2172
2174

Strangely, only the 2172 shows up as having a Hardware Maintenance Manual online.

The Hardware Maintenance Manual for 2170, 2171, and 2172 model Aptivas might just have the answers we're looking for.

On page 150 and 151 is documents the location of a switch which turns off password checking. Instructions for using the switch are on page 11.

Now I can only hope that you have a 2172 -- or that whatever type number you have is close enough to a 2172 that this switch is the same on your motherboard.

co_regular · 09-12-2006, 10:21 PM

Sir,

My Machine type is 2139 E5U. S/N:AF 1TNVV. My machine has a different system board. SW1 has 8 switches.

Omar

Will.Spencer · 09-13-2006, 12:35 AM

OK --- this is the complete suck.

IBM doesn't list this model at all. See for yourself.

One thing you might try is IBM's "Detect My System" script at the same URL.

You need that Hardware Maintenance Manual. Without it, you're down to guessing which DIP switches to flip.

co_regular · 09-20-2006, 06:28 PM

Sir,

I was finally able to bypass the password. I set the DIP switch # 2 to "ON".

Thanks so much for the help.

Sincerely,

Omar

Will.Spencer · 09-20-2006, 07:13 PM

I'm glad to hear that you got it working!