BIOS update lost power and now my computer won't turn on at all

[projectmom]

My Dell desktop was performing a BIOS update and appeared to lock up. 2 days later it was still updating but before I could contact Dell I lost power in a storm. Now it will not power up at all. The BIST button works and the power button will stay on, amber, if I combine the power button with the BIST button, but I can't get any further. Any ideas?

 

[Kashimi]

Try to reset the cmos. also unplug the PSU from the wall and then press in the power button for about 10 seconds, then plug it in and try to continue.

 

[projectmom]

I've already done the power discharge. I'm not sure how to reset the CMOS?

 

[Supernova1138]

I've already done the power discharge. I'm not sure how to reset the CMOS?

Unplug the system and remove the CMOS battery, it's the coin battery on the motherboard. Leave the battery out for a couple of minutes then reinstall it and plug your system back in. The odds of this actually fixing your problem are slim though, you've got a failed BIOS update, and that usually bricks the motherboard. You may have to contact Dell about a replacement BIOS chip or motherboard if they don't have another recovery option for you.

 

[Kashimi]

Unplug the PSU, then unplug the CMOS battery and wait for about 60 seconds. Plug the battery back in, then plug the PSU back in and try that.