ProBook 6540b BIOS locked

[rplecko]

I have bought broken ProBook 6540b for parts on eBay. Succeeded to repair the motherboard, added a Hard disk but unable to open BIOS to set the configuration.

What can I do to unlock? Is there a HP service that does that?

I found some software on the Internet that does the job and costs about 25 USD, but since I have nothing to hide (notebook is not stolen :-)) Ii hope that there is the simpler and cheaper way to do it.

Regards

[Huffer]

Is there a BIOS password or you just can't get into the BIOS? What exactly do you see on the screen?

[rplecko]

Hi Huffer,

Thanks for your question.

At system boot I press "esc" then "F10" key to enter the BIOS.

System is asking following...

User ID:BIOS Administrator
Enter Password

As you guessed allready - I don't know the password !!!

Bye

[Huffer]

The consumer laptops like Pavilion and Envy have a backdoor password but one of the features of the business line ProBook and Elitebook is the stringent security. The only way to get that password off is to solder a new chip on the motherboard, to my knowledge. 

@DavidPK can you help?

[DavidPK]

Hi,

I don't believe this model in on the list for the other options I know of but it's possible @REO51ST may know of another method.

Regards,

DP-K

[REO51ST]

@rplecko

I tested 10 more at the warehouse on Friday but did not send the new list to my personal Email.

I will check in the AM and let you know then.

REO

P.S. works on 6535b, 6550b, and 6560b the 6540b sounds familier but I can't say for sure.

[rplecko]

O.K. now I'm not sure what do you suggest to do ...


If the only way is to change the onboard chip, I am a bit suspicious because I tried it before with the similar model (6550) and it did not work. I suspect that there are slight differences between 6540, 6550 6560 and I probably did not detect correctly the model of the board, so I got the wrong chip... (or not)

So, first I would need to be sure about the board model (how?) and then find a reliable source for the chip...

Too many unknowns, I am affraid

what do you say?

[REO51ST]

@rplecko

Checked my list and your model has not been tested yet.

And the sales rep just informed that they sold every working 6540b last week.

This is my new list.

REO

[REO51ST · Accepted solution]

@rplecko

I wish I could have tested it first but you can still try the Shotgun method.

Your options are.

Contact HP.

 http://welcome.hp.com/country/w1/en/contact_us.html

Or download these files.

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/zu4kdgxm052l87d/AAAMi-kfX4AVH8oTCbsOM4X9a?dl=0

Insert clean USB flash drive.

Then run USB Image tool.

Choose the flash drive then click on RESTORE.

After restore remove flash drive.

Insert flash drive into locked laptop and boot. ”If HDD is installed remove before booting.”

At C:\OUTPUT   type CD..   “Then hit enter”

Type HPBR   “Then hit enter”

First thing is to save your settings.

Select #3 re-program.

Press “S” to save system information.

Type HPBR and hit enter.

Since your model is not listed select “SHOTGUN.”

After reboot repeat “SHOTGUN” a second time.

Let me know the result so I can update my list.

Some instructions here. “If you cannot boot from USB there are instructions to make a bootable HDD.”

http://mazzifsoftware.blogspot.com/2014/01/hp-bios​​-unlock-for-dos.html

More help here.

http://forums.mydigitallife.info/threads/49497-HP-Probook-Elitebook-BIOS-Password-Reset-Utility?s=ad...

REO

I must inform you that these services are not endorsed by HP, and that HP is not responsible for any damage that may arise to your system by using these services. Please be aware that you do this at your own risk.

[rplecko]

🙂

if someone send you a gun with instructions to press it to your head and pull a trigger, and you do it....
You can't even blame a sender, let alone the gun manufacturer...

...so, I probably will try the solution as you advised, and let you know the results....

thanks