Bypassing BIOS Administrator Password on HP EliteDesk 705 G3 SFF Without Service Center Access

[jhonnzidd]

Hi HP Community,

I’ve run into a tricky situation with my HP EliteDesk 705 G3 SFF and could use some expert insights! I recently acquired this system second-hand, but it’s locked down with a BIOS administrator password that I don’t have. I’ve already attempted a basic CMOS reset by pressing the onboard CMOS reset button for 10 seconds (both with and without power, and with the battery removed), but the password persists—possibly due to stringent security settings or a firmware quirk I’m not aware of.

Here’s the kicker: I don’t have the luxury of visiting an HP service center, so I’m looking for a DIY solution. My goal is to regain full BIOS access to tweak boot settings and update the firmware (it’s running an older version, likely pre-2019). I’ve poked around the forums and seen suggestions like shorting specific motherboard jumpers (e.g., the PSWD jumper), but the EliteDesk 705 G3 SFF service manual (Chapter 8, p. 104) is vague about whether this model supports that method—or if it’s locked out by design.

Has anyone tackled this on a similar G3 SFF model? I’m wondering if there’s a hidden jumper I’ve missed, a BIOS recovery trick via USB, or even a way to force a factory reset without triggering HP Sure Start protections (if enabled). I’ve got a multimeter and some basic soldering skills if it comes to grounding a chip, but I’d love to avoid cracking open the BIOS chip itself unless it’s the only option. Any detailed steps, jumper locations, or firmware-specific workarounds would be a lifesaver!

For context:

• Model: HP EliteDesk 705 G3 SFF
• BIOS version: Unknown (can’t access it yet!)
• No OS installed currently; I’m trying to boot from a USB to install Linux.

Thanks in advance for any wisdom you can share—this community’s expertise is my last hope before I resign myself to a password-protected paperweight!

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Hi:

If you look at this eBay listing of 705 G3 SFF motherboard, there is a green clear password jumper to the right of the yellow CMOS reset button.

There is white lettering on the motherboard where the jumper header is located labeled PSWD.

854582-001 HP EliteDesk 705 G3 SFF AM4 Motherboard Tested Working Free Shipping! | eBay

If removing that jumper does not clear the password, then the stringent security option was set, and the motherboard will need to be replaced.