I recently started getting error messages on boot up such as "CMOS checksum bad", which were resolved by pressing F2 to reset default BIOS settings. Then things got worse, and this would not work - got messages telling me date and time were not set and "Your programme caused a divide overflow error". The only way to boot was to go into the BIOS, then save changes and exit. I replaced the CMOS battery (a standard CR2032) and this helped at first but now things have gone back to the way they were. It could be because I handled the battery with sweaty fingers causing a discharge, so I will try another battery - not sure how best to avoid causing a similar discharge again. Perhaps rubber or polythene gloves would help which should I presume be OK so long as I wear my anti-static wrist strap. However, a lot of my programmes have got weird date and time info in them e.g. Norton anti-virus now tells me that the last time I made a set of rescue disks was -2790 days ago! I dont know if this matters or if I should reinstall NAV. Any advice on these issues welcome! thanks

Have you tried to clear the cmos ?? Unplug the power and move ur jumper to clear / power back up for a few mins then power down and unplug and switch the jumper back then power back up and see if this helps u Also have you check your new Battery for volts?? It may of been in the store for some time , I had this problem 1 time before

Well, it's nearly impossible to discharge a battery with sweaty fingers. The human body has too much resistance. It would require more voltage than the battery can possibly produce. It COULD have been sitting in the store for a long time, batteries to have a limited shelf life(never more than 3 years IIRC). Especially the Silver Oxide ones. Clear the CMOS, like bIL suggested. Baring that, it may be that the BIOS is corrupted. I have actually seen that happen before.

>> Well, it's nearly impossible to discharge a battery with sweaty fingers. << Dont you believe it. You can discharge a CMOS battery in seconds if you short the terminals with your fingers and sweaty fingers are only going to help the process as will greasy fingers. Its the low internal resistance of the battery that does it which allows them to supply a large current reltive to their size. Consequently, CMOS batteries should always be handled by their edges, that way you only touch one terminal. Stuart