Member Avatar for Biker920

Ok My problem, My 3yr old X205 Toshiba with Phonix bios is asking for a bios password.My account is admin & never has had a bios password set. Press on switch,bios splash screen comes up then goes to password request.This is not a windows pass request but a bios pass request. any ideas are much appreciated as this is a last ditch effort before sending lappy off to Toshiba along with $100 U.S. Thanks for any help. Later---

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Quick expert note on the Toshiba X205 (Phoenix BIOS) password issue. The hardware-reset suggestions from , the jumper idea from and the small-battery point from are common starting points, but the thread would benefit from a short diagnostic-first roadmap and clearer cautions before any teardown.

First, identify the lock type. A BIOS/power‑on (supervisor/user) password appears before POST and blocks access to BIOS settings; a hard‑drive (HDD) password or encryption typically makes the drive unreadable even when removed. A safe way to tell the difference is to attempt to access the drive from another system (using a SATA/USB adapter). If the drive mounts and files are visible, the problem is BIOS-level; if the drive is locked, data recovery options are limited until the lock is cleared.

Priority and options:

  • Preserve data first. If files matter, remove the HDD and image or copy it before further procedures that risk wiping or damaging data.
  • Use official routes next. Toshiba support or an authorized service center (with proof of ownership) can clear passwords or perform board-level EEPROM work reliably.
  • Consult the X205 service manual for exact service-point/jumper locations and safe disassembly instructions; that avoids unnecessary damage. Note that some Phoenix BIOS supervisor passwords are stored in nonvolatile memory and will not clear with simple power/battery tricks—board reprogramming may be required.

Cautions: avoid unverified “master‑code” or paid challenge‑code services, which are frequently unreliable and risky. Disassembly carries ESD and warranty‑void risks. If the data isn’t needed and cost is a concern, consider replacing the drive or using authorized repair as the safest path.

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Member Avatar for PhilliePhan

any ideas are much appreciated as this is a last ditch effort before sending lappy off to Toshiba along with $100 U.S.

Get ahold of Phoenix and see if they can help you.... for free :)

Lappy can be tricky. The tried and true method used to be to remove the CMOS battery and let it sit until residual has discharged. Much easier with a tower than laptop.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cg_wvp1YdSI


http://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000235.htm

Good luck :)
PP

Edited by PhilliePhan because: Fixed Linky
Member Avatar for mjdodd

On some towers and some laptops there is a jumper on the mother board and removal of this jumper will bypass the bios password. Putting it back will reinstall it unless you change it once you get through!!
m

Member Avatar for Biker920

thanks for suggestions am going thru probable fixes as I get time. Later---

Member Avatar for barryt

yes on laptop , remove battery and let comp run down completely , could be that there is also a small battery that you have to remove to, the above mentioned fixes should work

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