problem with Compaq Contura 410C

the checksum error implies a memory count problem.  try other RAM if you can.  If you cannot, is there more than one RAM module in the system?  Try one or the other and test.

Jocas,
After you try 1cell suggestion (probably right) take a look at what I found on the net.

Hope it helps.

Glenn

Checksum of CMOS is incorrect. This can indicate that CMOS has become corrupt. This error may have been caused by a weak battery.

When I pull the battery out for several seconds, put it back in, and restart it checks the memory, but locks up later.

Let me see what I can find out about the memory.

It appears that Glenn's hypothesis is correct.  I can now boot up the computer, but I can't access the hard drive.  I think it's because the CMOS settings aren't saved.

Do you have the autodetect option for the hard drive?  If not, what type is your hard drive and we will drive on.

Hope it helps

Glenn

The cmos can automatically detect the hard drive.  The only problem is, it doesn't save the information.  Also, the computer doesn't always boot.

Does this notebook computer have a separate battery for the BIOS?  Or will we need to replace the large battery in order for it to work?

It should be only one battery but I am not positive.  Can you tell me what the type of laptop it is and I will find out for you.  Keep your chin up, alot of good experts are here to help.

Glenn

Good catch 1cell, I went brain dead thinking 2 batteries were on the motherboard.

Thanks

Glenn

The notebook is a Compaq Contura 410C.  I'm don't know whether the system clock lost time or not.

BTW, thanks for your helpful responses.

Where can I buy a new CMOS battery?

Jocas,
I would recommend taking the battery out and going to your local computer store to purchase it.  They would be able to help you out.
I know this is frustrating but keep your chin up as the experts in here will help you to resolve your problem.

If you would like a source on the web I will research that but you may get a faster reponse locally.

Glenn

first, it depends on the motherbaord whether or not you can even replace the battery.  On some proprietary boards, the battery is actually soldered on.  I don't know about this one.

You should notice the system clock losing time as well if the battery is at fault.  Shut down the system (note the time first) and remove power (ACorDC) and wait 30 minutes.  Turn the system back on and check if it's lost time.

This might just be a problem with the CMOS all together.  maybe could be solved by a BIOS flash but might need new mobo all together.  Hopefully it's just the battery and it can be replaced.

I can't find specifics on this system but every other I've found from compaq is soldered.  On those systems, it does mention that you can add a battery with some kind of cable.

here's a link for the 400 series manual.  Doesn't tell us wheter it's soldered but does list part numbers

by looking at the site, it seems that whether it's soldered or not (doesn't say) you will be able to at least add a second battery which would solve the problem if it is indeed the CMOS battery

Jocas, When you stated earlier that when you pulled the battery out, which battery did you mean.

your earlier comment

When I pull the battery out for several seconds, put it back in, and restart it checks the memory, but locks up later.

just trying to pin it down.  Was it the laptop battery or the cmos battery.  
As 1cell states, the cmos battery may be soldered.
Thanks

Glenn

I'm going to take off the cover and check the battery.

listening..........

remember, either way, there is a replacement part.  You'll have to get it from Compaq but.........

Adjusted points to 225

1cell, could you give me the URL for the product manual and/or the part number?

Thanks.

WOW, I DID last night!!!

here it is
ftp://ftp.compaq.com/pub/supportinformation/techpubs/qrg/contura400.pdf

here's adobe acrobat if you don't have it
http://www.adobe.com/acrobat/readstep.html

I have a Compaq 410C - I have been trying to get Linux on it, but no luck so far...

where are we jocas?

1cell, I'll accept your comment as an answer.  If I have any further questions, then I'll post another question.

BTW, Glenn, thanks for your help, too.  

glad I could help.  If you need any more, let me know.  Just post here.

Which side of the battery should be up--the positive or the negative side?

Cool, the battery only goes in one way.

FYI: If someone is planning on buying a battery, they should consider buying it from www.ebatts.com

eBatts has very good prices; I could have saved myself $15 over buying directly from Compaq.

I take it you are up and running.  Glad to hear it and good luck.

Glenn

glad to hear of the success