Make your PC's clock remember the time

Q When I first switch on my PC, the date is always stuck on December 2003 and I have to change it to the current time and date before I do anything else.

When I am finished I switch off the PC but when I return to it later and switch it on again, the date has returned to December 2003. I cannot seem to make the computer remember the correct time, can you help?

David Taylor

A This is a common problem with older PCs. Computers have to use a battery to keep the internal clock running when they are switched off at the mains.

Like any battery, these will run out of power after time and need replacing. Rather than a typical AA or AAA battery used in most electronic devices, the type used on motherboards is a small battery resembling a coin.

They can be purchased from some computer shops, chemists and watchmakers and are fairly cheap.
Many motherboards use a battery called the CR2032, but check the manual or old battery.

To replace the battery you will need to open your PC and look on the motherboard for the slot where the old battery is, and then replace it. Although it’s a fairly easy procedure, it does mean having to poke around inside your PC, and this can be confusing. Watch our video for advice.

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