Will clearing CMOS damage motherboard while PC is on?

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scooter_2478

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Sep 21, 2017
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Hello,

I recently built a new PC. I would like to know if clearing the CMOS while its on and running the O.S. would cause any damage to the components? I have been tweaking the BIOS and quite often I have to clear the CMOS. I'm asking because I added a power switch to the jumper so I don't have to get inside the case every time and I'm worried if I bump the switch it could cause damage. The manual says to turn off the PC and switch the jumper for 5 to 10 seconds. So is the reset instant or do I have 4 seconds of "safe" time? If the CMOS doesn't clear instantly and I have a 4 second window, then if I bump the switch I'm safe? I would appreciate any advice. My PC specs will be posted below.

Thank You, Scooter_2478

Motherboard: MSI Z170A Gaming M5
CPU: Intel Core i5 7600K (Heat sink-Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO)
RAM: 1x G.SKILL Aegis 8GB DDR4 3000 (planning to add more)
GPU (primary Display): XFX Radeon R9 280 3GB Black Double Dissipation Edition (R9-280A-TDBD) "MODIFIED"
GPU (Secondary Display): Intel HD Graphics 630
HDD: Western Digital WD10EZRX 1TB 7200RPM SATA-6 64MB Buffer
PSU: Apevia 680W
CD/DVD: CD/DVD DL RW Burner
5in. front bay all in one Generic Card Reader+2x USB 2.0+2x eSATA+IEEE 1394+Mic+Headphone+2x fan control+temp sensor+LED Display
1x 120mm LED fan (on heat sink) ,3x 120mm Case fans, 1x 80mm led fan (mounted on side panel)
1x 12v led+control unit, 1x 12v 6ft led
Thermaltake Full Tower (unknown case series)
 
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bignastyid
1. Do not attempt to do a bios reset while the system is powered up, that is much more dangerous to the system then hitting the switch on the PSU or just pulling the plug. It's is always best to follow the manufactures instructions.

2. That PSU is dangerous junk and should be replaced asap. Apevia units are essential generic garbage in a shiny case.
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Sedivy

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Dec 17, 2016
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Uh...I actually don't know the recommendations, but I can't imagine that changing bios settings while pc is on is good for your system. I'd imagine it can cause quite a bit of havoc. I personally wouldn't do it but again, I do not know for sure. Technically you can clear cmos from bios, but full loaded into windows, I wouldn't do it ever.
 
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dextermat

dextermat

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Sep 21, 2007
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+1 pull the power cord.
This has happened my asrock and had issues with overclock.
It lasted a couple of years, then started to lose functionality on the board and overclock not saving.
When I moved the cmos jumper the computer powered up and then I was screwed.
 
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DRagor

DRagor

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Jan 23, 2017
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Well, if you don't like your system, go ahead and try :)
Seriously the warning in motherboard manual is not to be ignored. Worst case scenario would be that it could damage your motherboard. Most likely scenario, if it is turned only for a split second, it will just freeze your machine. But I would not risk my equipment that way.
 
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bignastyid

bignastyid

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Jun 19, 2011
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1. Do not attempt to do a bios reset while the system is powered up, that is much more dangerous to the system then hitting the switch on the PSU or just pulling the plug. It's is always best to follow the manufactures instructions.

2. That PSU is dangerous junk and should be replaced asap. Apevia units are essential generic garbage in a shiny case.
 
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ModiFkrz

Prominent
Jul 15, 2017
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Nope, just did it twice. PC is completely fine and boots up properly. I still would recommend doing it though as it didn't clear cmos until the PC was off.
 
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