PW req. after pwr up IBM TP 2652 a31

My IBM Thinkpad 2652 A31 prompts me to enter a passward after powerup before entering CMOS? I wanted to reformat my recently new HD 60gig. And install WX Pro.
I removed the cmos batt. after tryining to load Win XP disc.
It now says that the RTC clock and Date arent set with err.0260. Then prompts me for a password. After 3 unsuccesful attemps,. Ihave to turn the power off and back on with the same results.
I tried the F1 Key and both Mouse buttons depressed.
Please help?
My Email address is waydensd@yahoo.com