HP Workstation xw4200 Additional Password Security and Resetting CMOS

Appendix H Additional Password Security
and Resetting CMOS

This appendix discusses additional password security and CMOS (complementary metal oxide
semiconductor)-related issues for the HP Workstation xw4200. This appendix includes the following
sections:

 “Resetting the Password Jumper” on page 180

 “Clearing and Resetting the CMOS” on page 181

This workstation supports security password features, which can be established through the Computer
Setup Utilities menu. These features are:

 setup password

 power-on password

When you establish only a setup password, the power-on password is required to access Computer
Setup and any other information on the workstation. When you establish both passwords, only the setup
password will give you access to Computer Setup.

When both passwords are set, the setup password can also be used in place of the power-on password
as an override to log in to the workstation. This is a useful feature for a network administrator.

If you forget the password for the computer, there are two method for clearing that password so you can
gain access to the information on the workstation:

 resetting the password jumper

 using the Clear CMOS button

CAUTION Pushing the CMOS button resets CMOS values to factory defaults and erases any

customized information including passwords, asset numbers, and special settings. It is important to back
up the workstation CMOS settings before resetting them in case they are needed later. To back up the
CMOS settings, use Computer Setup and run the Save to Diskette option from the File menu.

179

Appendix H

Resetting the Password Jumper

To disable the power-on or setup password features, and clear the power-on and setup passwords:

1 Shut down the operating system and then turn off the workstation and any external devices.

Disconnect the power cord of the workstation and any external devices from the power outlets.

2 Disconnect the keyboard, monitor, and any other external devices that are connected to the

workstation.

WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury from electrical shock and hot surfaces, be sure to

disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet and allow the internal system components to cool before
touching.

CAUTION When the workstation is plugged in, the power supply always has voltage applied to the

system board even when the unit is turned off. Failure to disconnect the power cord can result in damage
to the system.

CAUTION Static electricity can damage the electronic components of the workstation or optional

equipment. Before beginning these procedures, ensure that you are discharged of static electricity by
briefly touching a grounded metal object.

3 Remove the access panel.

4 Locate the header and jumper. The password jumper is E49.

NOTE The password jumper is green so that it can be easily identified. For assistance locating the

password jumper and other system board components, see “System Board Components” on page 17.

5 Remove the jumper from pins 1 and 2. Place the jumper on either pin 1 or 2, but not both, so it does

not get lost.

6 Replace the access panel.

7 Reconnect the external equipment.

8 Plug in the workstation and turn on the power. Allow the operating system to start. This clears the

current passwords and disables the password features.

9 To establish new passwords, repeat steps 1 through 4, replace the password jumper on pins 1 and 2,

then repeat steps 6 through 8. Establish the new passwords in Computer Setup.

180 ADDITIONAL PASSWORD SECURITY AND RESETTING CMOS