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BIOS error

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9 replies

by computab

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Compaq LTE 3500 laptop, Win98, startup error, Wont start on hard disk, or on floppy disk with or without hard drive connected. At startup gives F10 prompt for BIOS but wont open BIOS, then goes straight to "81920" error code, then "Password verification" box "Enter password" OK and freezes. I have repeated this after the CMOS battery removed overnight. The BIOS needs to be reprogramed, but how?

9 replies

by oz_media

The defalut (manufacturer's) BIOS bypass for Compaq is 'Compaq' (with no quotes of course).

Other BIOS default passwords can be found here;
http://tinyurl.com/q398 depending on which manufacturer's BIOS is running.

by computab

I can't enter anything, the screen is frozen. The system freezes with or without the hard disk connected, with or without a floppy disk inserted. click on OK does nothing.

by oz_media

81920? From my experience that is a memory error.

If you have added memory, try removing all but the original or swapping them out. If not, I would suggest trying some new ram.
Laptops are REALLY fussy about RAM if you have added any.

by jaqui

I had similar problem on a dell,
no password would work to get into the bios.
killcmos ripped the cmos back to complete default.
have to put it onto a dos boot floppy. ( yes I saw the problems with booting from floppy. if it was trying to boot into windows that could be what is causing it.)

will it boot from cd?

url for killcmos freeware
http://www.utilitygeek.com/details.php?fileid=82

by grandhighdruid

First and foremost, you need to give a PROPER model type. There is no Compaq LTE 3500. There is an Armada 3500, or a LTE 5300. What is it? The reason this is SO inportant is that I had one type of Compaq laptop that you had to short out the CMOS jumper connection to clear the CMOS. Lovely, eh? When we get the right info, then we can REALLY help you!!

by computab

the details are correct, its not listed on HP site cos its a 1996 system, too old.

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