Start tapping the Delete key as soon as you power on. If your computer uses another key to enter the BIOS, start tapping that as soon as you power on.

Also, Dell recommends you use a plastic screwdriver when replacing your computers battery.

Sound crazy?  Well maybe, but for less than $4.00 plus shipping, I bought one for my computer tool-box.  Suppose you could make something yourself but for that price its worth getting.  Nice for carefully lifting ribbon cables, and wires inside your case as well as, changing the CMOS battery.

I got mine here but if you do a search and type in "plastic screwdrivers" you will get several sites that sell them. 

Good Luck

My older computer requires you hold the Delete key down, not tap it, so try it both ways.

Also comes in the handy Computer tool kit available at office supply/computer stores, complete with non magnitized screwdrivers, chip puller, extra screws, etc.

Thanks a lot.  I'll get a plastic screwdriver.

I really appreciate your help.

Raymond,

I see you have only posted 5 times to this forum, so your brand new here - Welcome!

Just a tip to help you out - you don't have to add a new post each time, if you simply wish to add something to your original post.  If you decide that you wished you had said some others things to your post, simply select your post again and look to the right side of the page and you will see the word Options with a yellow down arrow.  Click the yellow down arrow and select the first option.  This will allow you to edit your message instead of posting new ones each time.

Hope you enjoy the forum

Message Edited by tedh10000 on 09-09-2003 05:33 PM

Thanks a million for your help.  I've been postponing replacing the battery - now I can!