Check the RTC

Cycle RTC Test

1. Make a full system backup. Disconnect the PC from all other systems and networks.
2. Modify the system date to December 31, 1999.
3. Modify the system time to 11:58 p.m.
4. Display the system date and time to make sure they are set correctly.
5. Turn the computer off.
6. Wait 3 minutes to 5 minutes so the RTC can cycle into January 1, 2000.
7. Turn the computer back on.
8. Check the system date and time. They should read a few minutes after midnight, January 1, 2000. If they don't, make note of the date and time displayed­these are valuable clues to the kind of date problem you have.
9. Reset the system to the current date and time before rebooting.

Set RTC Test

1. Make a full system backup. Disconnect the PC from all other systems and networks.
2. Modify the system date to January 1, 2000.
3. Display the system date to be sure it is set correctly.
4. Turn the computer off.
5. Wait 1 minute so the RTC can cycle.
6. Turn the computer back on.
7. Check the system date and time. They should read a few minutes after midnight, January 1, 2000. If they don't, make note of the date and time displayed­these are valuable clues to the kind of date problem you have.
8. Reset the system to the current date before you reboot.