A user reports that her desktop's clock resets to January 1, 2008 every time the PC is shut down and unplugged. In addition, custom BIOS settings such as the boot order disappear after each power loss. Which internal component should you replace first to correct this symptom and preserve the clock?
The coin-cell CMOS battery mounted on the motherboard
A depleted CMOS battery can no longer supply standby power to the motherboard's real-time clock (RTC) and non-volatile BIOS storage when the system is unplugged. As a result, the system date/time revert to a default value and any customized firmware settings are lost. Replacing the coin-cell CMOS battery restores constant power to the RTC, eliminating the inaccurate clock issue.
A power supply unit problem would cause the system not to turn on or to shut off unexpectedly, but BIOS settings would remain intact when AC power is removed.
Faulty RAM can cause POST beeps or random crashes but does not affect the RTC.
A CPU fan or a front-panel USB header has no role in maintaining firmware or clock data.
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