Alert “System Battery Voltage is Low” Error

The “Alert System Battery Voltage Low” error message can be an alarming sight on Dell Optiplex 755, 760, 380, and 780 models.

This error typically indicates that the CMOS battery, which powers the system’s BIOS settings, needs to be replaced.

In this article, we will delve into the causes of this error, explain how to resolve it, and address the common requirement to press F1 to continue booting.

Causes of the ‘Alert System Battery Voltage Low’ Error

The CMOS battery on Dell Optiplex systems serves to retain important BIOS information, such as date and time settings, even when the computer is turned off.

Over time, the battery’s power depletes, leading to the “Alert System Battery Voltage Low” error message. This warning notifies users that the CMOS battery is no longer functioning optimally and needs to be replaced.

Resolving the ‘Alert System Battery Voltage Low’ Error

To resolve the low system battery voltage issue on Dell Optiplex models, follow these steps:

1. Power off the computer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Open the computer case to locate the CMOS battery.
3. Carefully remove the old CMOS battery from its holder.
4. Replace it with a new CR2032 lithium coin cell battery, ensuring the positive (+) side faces up.
5. Close the computer case and reconnect the power source.

By replacing the CMOS battery, you provide a fresh power supply to the BIOS settings, preventing the “Alert System Battery Voltage Low” error from reoccurring.

Press F1 to Continue

After replacing the CMOS battery, when you power on the Dell Optiplex system, you may encounter a prompt asking you to “Press F1 to Continue.” This occurs because the BIOS settings have been reset to their default values due to the battery replacement.

Pressing F1 allows the system to continue booting, but it’s essential to reconfigure the BIOS settings to match your preferences.

To reconfigure the BIOS settings:

1. Press F2 (or the key specified on the screen) during the boot process to enter the BIOS setup.
2. Navigate through the BIOS menu to modify settings such as date, time, boot order, and any other preferences you had previously customized.
3. Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup.

Once you’ve properly configured the BIOS settings, the “Press F1 to Continue” prompt should no longer appear during subsequent system startups.

In conclusion, the “Alert System Battery Voltage Low” error is a common occurrence on Dell Optiplex 755, 760, 380, and 780 models, indicating the need to replace the CMOS battery.

By following the steps outlined above, you can resolve the issue and ensure smooth operation of your Dell Optiplex system. Remember to reconfigure the BIOS settings after battery replacement to optimize your computer’s functionality.