MSI motherboard CMOS battery obsolescence: Difference between revisions

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{{IncidentCargo|Company=MSI|Status=Ongoing|Product=Motherboards|ArticleType=Incident|StartDate=2022}}

==Background==

MSI Mainboard (2025-2026 Models, MEG & MPG Product lines) CMOS CR2032 batteries are no longer contained within a standard easily accessible clip-mount holder. Instead the CMOS battery is hidden beneath the VRM heatsink assembly, and is affixed to the mainboard via a lead, and mounted with adhesives and shrink-wrap plastic.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> Some of the lower-end tier models of MSI motherboard still have a clip-mount, but it is blocked by heatsinks (that are not part of the VRM assembly). All current models (2025-2026) of motherboard have a line of text in the user manual that states the following:

This statement is false. The battery is a standard CR2032 battery. It is not rechargeable, or unique, and is replaceable, with some extended [[MSI Motherboard CMOS Battery Obsolescence#Workarounds|effort]].

In addition to inconvenience and obfuscation, there is the potential that the location of the battery near the high temperature heatsink may shorten the lifespan of the cell. The operating temperature of a CR2032 coin cell is typically -30°C to 85°C, it's recommended to consult the manufacturer should the temperature exceeds 70°C<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2024-07-01 |title=CR2032 CR Coin-type Lithium Battery |url=https://energy.panasonic.com/dam/master/pdf/en/datasheet/lithium/CR2032_Datasheet_EN_240701.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260302101209/https://energy.panasonic.com/dam/master/pdf/en/datasheet/lithium/CR2032_Datasheet_EN_240701.pdf |archive-date=2026-03-02 |access-date=2026-03-02 |website=Panasonic Energy}}</ref>. VRMs typically run at higher temperatures typically around 80°C to 90°C, with safe operating temperature exceeding 100°C<ref>{{Cite web |last=u/jayyywhattt |date=2022-01-07 |title=Motherboard, vrm temperatures |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/overclocking/comments/ry9cdc/motherboard_vrm_temperatures/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260302101503/https://old.reddit.com/r/overclocking/comments/ry9cdc/motherboard_vrm_temperatures/ |archive-date=2026-03-02 |access-date=2026-03-02 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>.

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==Workarounds==

If your CMOS battery dies and needs replacing, here are some steps to follow to replace your 'irreplaceable' battery.

*Obtain a new standard CR2032 battery.  Alternatively, replacement CR2032 for MSI Laptops that ship with the lead are available from third party vendors.  The connectors from these products appear to match the MSI mainboard plug<ref>{{Cite web |others=Archive didn't preserve the image, Use the Live Link if you need to see the picture. |title=MSI Laptop Cell Discussion Thread |url=https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/cmos-battery-replacement.391638/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260304092350/https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/cmos-battery-replacement.391638/ |archive-date=2026-03-04 |website=MSI Forums}}</ref>, though this is unconfirmed.  If you have obtained one of these and the connector fits, you will not need a tack welder or shrink wrap in the steps below.

*Un-mount your mainboard from your computer case and look for several screws on the reverse side of the board opposing the VRM assembly<ref name=":3" />.  Removing these allows you to remove the VRM heatsink.

**Solder each lead to a piece of nickle strip, and use a tack-welder to re-anchor each strip to the correct polarity battery surface.  Alternatively, simply wrap some electricians tape to re-anchor leads to the terminals, though be mindful, that tape adhesive will weaken over time, leading to possible loose connections.  Tack welding is strongly recommended.  Upon completing this assembly to your satisfaction, move on to the next step.

**Encase the new battery with electrical tape or heat shrink-wrap.

*Replace the VRM heatsink, ensuring good contact across all thermal pads, and reconnecting the RGB lighting connector if it is present.

*Re-Anchor the screws on the opposing side of the PCB.

[[Category:MSI]]