Optiplex 390 BIOS Password Reset

Question

Recently purchased a Used Dell Optiplex 390.  I know, probably a risky move but I'm struggling with money at the moment.   Anyway, I'm trying to update the BIOS on it, only to find that the BIOS has a password on it.  I'm unable to get the BIOS password.  I read about the password reset jumpers, and there are two jumpers I can find on the board.  I think one of them is labeled CMOS something but I can't be sure.  When I switch this one to pins 2 and 3, the computer gives me a message that says 'Alert, Service Mode Jumper is Set'.   The BIOS password remains.   When I switch the other jumper (I cannot find a label for it) the computer will not turn on at all.   I feel like I'm clearly missing something simple, but what is it?Thank you!

ejn63 · Answer

One of those jumpers should be labeled PSWD.  It should be near the SATA connectors. Move the jumper to 2-3, power up for 30 sec and then power off.  Reset the jumper and the password will be cleared.

harmonherring · Answer

Found it - was the third jumper located far away from SATA connectors, underneath the bottom PCI x1 slot.  Was blocked by a card I had there, I'm just an idiot.

harmonherring · Answer

Thank you for your help.  After some additional searching, I found it on the jumper located furthest away from the SATA connectors.  It was hidden by a PCIe card that I have in there.  Thank you for your help and I'm sorry for wasting your time

Locked Topics – Desktops General

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