• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Just got a used Dell, but cant reformatt

F

fsstrike

Senior member
When I start up my Dell OptiPlex GX260 that I got used from a friend, I try to reformatt it but it does not allow me to Boot from CD because I do not have the valid bios password. My friend doesnt know the password and the technical support has expired so I cant call Dell for help. I tried resetting the CMOS by taking the battery out for a few minutes but I still cannot change the boot order due to a missing password. Is there anything I can do to reformatt this computer?

I can enter Windows already on the existing hard drive, but it doesnt allow me to create or delete any partitions.

Is there a way I can get around these problems?
 
You could use a windows 98 boot disk, the system should boot from floppy if its inserted. Format the drive using whatever (fat32) using fdisk. Then remove the floppy, insert the windows cd, and boot it up. It'll probably boot using the CD since there will be no OS on the HD. Then you can reformat to NTFS (assuming this is an XP install).

But you will really want to get that BIOS password out of there sometime. BTW - what model is this Dell?
 
I don't think there's a clear cmos jumper on most dells. I'd pull the battery and let it sit overnight, that should clear it, I've had to do it on a few free dells i've gotten from other departments in the past.
 
Originally posted by: bamacre
You could use a windows 98 boot disk, the system should boot from floppy if its inserted. Format the drive using whatever (fat32) using fdisk. Then remove the floppy, insert the windows cd, and boot it up. It'll probably boot using the CD since there will be no OS on the HD. Then you can reformat to NTFS (assuming this is an XP install).

But you will really want to get that BIOS password out of there sometime. BTW - what model is this Dell?
Click to expand...

Dell OptiPlex GX260

Is there a common Dell password that is default on all Dell Mobos?
 
Originally posted by: fsstrike
Originally posted by: bamacre
You could use a windows 98 boot disk, the system should boot from floppy if its inserted. Format the drive using whatever (fat32) using fdisk. Then remove the floppy, insert the windows cd, and boot it up. It'll probably boot using the CD since there will be no OS on the HD. Then you can reformat to NTFS (assuming this is an XP install).

But you will really want to get that BIOS password out of there sometime. BTW - what model is this Dell?
Click to expand...

Dell OptiPlex GX260

Is there a common Dell password that is default on all Dell Mobos?
Click to expand...


No, it would have been set by the owner. You may be able to find out how to reset the cmos and/or password here...
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/opgx260/en/ug/index.htm

 
Originally posted by: zagood
Originally posted by: bamacre

No, it would have been set by the owner. You may be able to find out how to reset the cmos and/or password here...
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/opgx260/en/ug/index.htm
Click to expand...

Good link. I found out how to do it in about 30 seconds.

-z
Click to expand...


Sweet.

FYI, this is the mother link...

http://support.dell.com/support/systems...documentation.aspx?c=us&cs=&l=en&s=gen

Damn good info on every Dell system.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top