M125: Changing batteries and the Reset Dilemma

[TheBrownRecluse]

When I change batteries on my Palm (which I am careful to do within a few seconds of removing the old ones), the Palm, for the first time that I know of, asks me "Erase all data?: Yes - "up" button; No - any other button". Of course, I press any other button, and it just turns off. What must I do to get back to the where I was before I changed the batteries without having to Erase the data on my Palm. I admit, I haven't backed it up in a week.

[Telyx]

Wow, that isn't right... if you recently bought the m125, you might want to exchange it at the store for another. I've never had that problem with mine.

[djmangen]

Well, at least it is giving you the option.

Try changing batteries a little bit earlier in the cycle, and maybe changing them one at a time. By this I mean have your replacement set available, pop and old one out and immediately replace with a new, then go to the next one. This might help a bit.

[DreamWisdom]

I just started having this reset problem with my m105. Since I've used the NiMH batteries for over a year before I developed the problem I doubt that they are the cause. I just tried changing batteries even though my current set was still 3/4 full - no luck. So changing earlier in the cycle isn't the answer either. I also changed batteries one at a time - about 2 seconds for each one, and that didn't help either. I've done a hard reset, too - no help. I suspect the capacitor that holds the charge (or is supposed to) while you are changing batteries has gone bad. The one thing that doesn't fit that hypothesis is that after I've reset the Palm but _before_ I've restored the data I can take the batteries out for up to 30 seconds without losing the time setting. Perhaps it takes more "juice" with the data than without? I have about 6000K used, so it's pretty full.

Has anyone who had this problem found any solutions?

[strider_mt2k]

I had the same problem with my m125.
I used to replace the batts one at a time, and that seemed to handle it.

It's a bummer, because the m125 is a killer little unit.

[DreamWisdom]

Thanks for the reply, but changing batteries one at a time is not the answer for my unit. I did that as fast as I could (about 2 seconds for each battery) and it STILL lost data.

But I _have_ found an answer, of sorts. I found another device that uses 2 batteries and has accessible contacts (a hand-held tape recorder, in my case). I ran small wires from the terminals of the tape recorder to the terminals on my Palm so that it would "borrow" the voltage from the tape recorder even with the batteries out. You have to be sure you have the correct terminals. A volt meter is a big help because you could probably burn up both units if you do it wrong! Once the wires were in place I took out my Palm batteries one at a time and replaced them with recharged NiMH batteries. IT WORKED!

In spite of that success I bought a new m105 from Amazon.com for $74.00 ($99 less $25 rebate). I'll consider my old unit a backup from now on - it's just too cumbersome to change batteries that way. But it IS possible.

DW

[Mully]

I have the same problem with my m105. My wife started to have the problem with her m100 awhile ago. Now mine has started to do the same thing. Looks like this is a new "feature" for the mXX series.

I haven't tried the theory of changing one battery at a time though. I'll let you know how it goes next time I have to change them.

[strider_mt2k]

Bully piece of Magyvering!
Well, done, but I'm sorry it came to that.


Originally posted by DreamWisdom
Thanks for the reply, but changing batteries one at a time is not the answer for my unit. I did that as fast as I could (about 2 seconds for each battery) and it STILL lost data.

But I _have_ found an answer, of sorts. I found another device that uses 2 batteries and has accessible contacts (a hand-held tape recorder, in my case). I ran small wires from the terminals of the tape recorder to the terminals on my Palm so that it would "borrow" the voltage from the tape recorder even with the batteries out. You have to be sure you have the correct terminals. A volt meter is a big help because you could probably burn up both units if you do it wrong! Once the wires were in place I took out my Palm batteries one at a time and replaced them with recharged NiMH batteries. IT WORKED!

In spite of that success I bought a new m105 from Amazon.com for $74.00 ($99 less $25 rebate). I'll consider my old unit a backup from now on - it's just too cumbersome to change batteries that way. But it IS possible.

DW

[schmuck]

Magyvering Indead!

I'm So Impressed I Just Spilled My Beer !!!

Damn.. Spilled It On My Clie At That.. Damn I'm A Schmuck

Originally posted by DreamWisdom
Thanks for the reply, but changing batteries one at a time is not the answer for my unit. I did that as fast as I could (about 2 seconds for each battery) and it STILL lost data.

But I _have_ found an answer, of sorts. I found another device that uses 2 batteries and has accessible contacts (a hand-held tape recorder, in my case). I ran small wires from the terminals of the tape recorder to the terminals on my Palm so that it would "borrow" the voltage from the tape recorder even with the batteries out. You have to be sure you have the correct terminals. A volt meter is a big help because you could probably burn up both units if you do it wrong! Once the wires were in place I took out my Palm batteries one at a time and replaced them with recharged NiMH batteries. IT WORKED!

In spite of that success I bought a new m105 from Amazon.com for $74.00 ($99 less $25 rebate). I'll consider my old unit a backup from now on - it's just too cumbersome to change batteries that way. But it IS possible.

DW

[DreamWisdom]

Ahhhh... I take that "Bully piece of Magyvering" is a compliment, so thank you very much. But what _is_ Magyvering??? I'd love to add it to my vocabulary but don't want to misuse it and make a fool of myself, or spill my beer. BTW, does that yeasty Clie still work?

DW

[DrMud]

Palm has posted what they believe are helpful tips on changing the batteries and that page is listed below. The fact is that the capictor on the 125 that is suppose to hold the data while the batteries are changed is defective on many units. If under warranty or not I would call Palm.
DrMud

Battery Solutions from Palm.com (http://205.141.210.149/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE/,/)

[schmuck]

yeah It's Fine... gave it some Monostat & it fired right up

[Mully]

Your link didn't work very well; try posting it again.

Thanks


Originally posted by DrMud
Battery Solutions from Palm.com (http://205.141.210.149/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE/,/)

[Telyx]

"MacGyvering" (named after the TV show "MacGyver") is the act of rigging a solution to a problem (often something electronic, but sometimes something mechanical) out of bits and pieces you manage to randomly find.

That's not a formal definition, of course.

An example: The teams on "Junkyard Wars" engage in mechanical MacGyvering to build cars and boats out of junk.

[schmuck]

Great definition Telyx.. i was going to say the ability to construct an Atomic Device from a piece of Chewing gum & the Bra your wife found under the seat of your car

[DreamWisdom]

Thanks for the tip, DrMud. I did call Palm, but since my Palm was ONE month past its warranty period they wouldn't replace or repair it. Well, they _would_ but for a small fee - very nearly the same price as a new unit. I thought that grossly unfair since I'd spent over a month trying to troubleshoot the problem, first on my own and then via email with tech support. If I had immediately thrown up my hands and said, "It broke,n" I'd have been within the warranty period. They are (inadvertently?) punishing resourcefulness. Do you (or anyone else) have any magic words to help Palm see the error of their ways?

DreamWisdom

Originally posted by DrMud
Palm has posted what they believe are helpful tips on changing the batteries and that page is listed below. The fact is that the capictor on the 125 that is suppose to hold the data while the batteries are changed is defective on many units. If under warranty or not I would call Palm.
DrMud

Battery Solutions from Palm.com (http://205.141.210.149/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE/,/)

[DrMud]

I suppose in this day subcontracted tech and customer support there is little effort made to make the reps familiar with the idea of brand loyalty and going one step beyond to satisfy the customer.
Doc

[strider_mt2k]

Very well put.

(Yes indeed, I did mean it as a compliment.)

Originally posted by Telyx
"MacGyvering" (named after the TV show "MacGyver") is the act of rigging a solution to a problem (often something electronic, but sometimes something mechanical) out of bits and pieces you manage to randomly find.

That's not a formal definition, of course.

An example: The teams on "Junkyard Wars" engage in mechanical MacGyvering to build cars and boats out of junk.

[mikepa1]

I've had this problem with my M125. This only started when I started using rechargeable batteries. The difficulty seemed to be that the recharg. were slightly shorter than regular batteries and would not really make the connection across the strip. I ended up putting a thin strip of plastic behind the metal clip to firm up the connection and have NEVER had the problem since. I think it's something like the connection goes on and off and it causes the soft reset. If you maintain the battery connection all is well. Try it.

[BlueEagle]

I HAD THE SAME PROBLEM WITH MY M125. DON'T TRY TO CHANGE BATTERIES ONE AT A TIME. REMOVE THEM BOTH QUICKLY AND REPLACE ONLY WITH ALKALINE BATTERIES(DO THIS W/N 60 SEC). SOME MAY SAY REPLACE IT ONE BY ONE BUT TRUST ME THIS IS WHAT I DID:cool:

[strider_mt2k]

No need to yell. We can hear you just fine! :)

[tuffguy]

Originally posted by BlueEagle
DON'T TRY TO CHANGE BATTERIES ONE AT A TIME. REMOVE THEM BOTH QUICKLY AND REPLACE ONLY WITH ALKALINE BATTERIES(DO THIS W/N 60 SEC). SOME MAY SAY REPLACE IT ONE BY ONE BUT TRUST ME THIS IS WHAT I DID

I beg to differ blueeagle. Palm specifically states not to change both batteries at one time. I have always done one at a time. I always use the same kind of batteries (Energizer Max). Reading this thread mades me paranoid every time I change batteries, but I stick with the manufacture's recommendations and have never had a problem ;)

tuff

[BlueEagle]

Thanks but for some reason this is how my handheld works. I'm also confused why it works that way (changing the batteries). Anyway, i have to do some research if what i'm doing will have any bad effects on my palm.:D

[strider_mt2k]

The battery issue was never consistant with my m125. I noticed it would soft-reset sometimes after a battery change, but it would never lose data.
It was a contributing factor, however in my decision to upgrade.

I got tired of the battery BS, and the wonky digitizer, and got an m130. I haven't looked back.

[damfino1920]

I have a m105 and am also recently having problems with batteries and a reset. Before the low battery indicator even popped up, I changed batteries (alkaline) and it's resetting. I synced it right before changing the batteries, HOWEVER..... when I synced it again, NOTHING came back. I had lost all my info, apps, lists in Memo Pad, etc. I had to install everything again, and never got the Memo Pad stuff back. I have it set up so it syncs "both ways" yet the info doesn't seem to be going from the Palm to the computer so I can recall it from the computer during the sync. What could be wrong?

It's only the last 2 times that I've had to change batteries that this has happened. Before I didn't have any problems. Now I'm ready to just use this thing as a paperweight and go back to pen and paper, since that way I can keep my Memo Pad lists.

Any hints are appreciated! Thanks!

[tuffguy]

No offense intended but maybe its time to update your 105. Nearly all pdas now have rechargeable capabilities. With rebates and incentives the 130 is down to where it should be (less than $200).
Personally, I own a 130. I bought my wife a 125 a few months ago and really regret doing so. All she needs is an appointment and address book. If I would have known the Zire was coming out I would have waited.
I am a heavy pda user. A couple to a few hours every day. Knowing this, I bought a rechargeable. I never would have been able to get by on alkaline batteries.

Just my opinion, take it for what its worth.

tuff

[damfino1920]

I just got it a year ago - it was handed out to everyone in the office where I work. I hardly used it the first 4 months I had it and only in the past 5 months or so have I really used it moderately heavy. I'm just wondering why it's so flaky about keeping the info or not. When I switch batteries, there is no more than 5 seconds between when the old ones go out and the new ones go in. Supposedly I have a 2 minute window. I just don't understand it.

Yes, I suppose I could upgrade if I had the money. I'll just mess around with it and see if I can find a way for it to work.

[DreamWisdom]

My guess is that if your unit isn't keeping its data for a 5 second battery change that it isn't going to work no matter how fast you change them. I doubt that changing them one at a time will help, either. A properly functioning unit should give you up to 60 seconds to change batteries - one at a time or both at once.

I discovered that there are "secret" codes you can use to change various settings on the Palm. For instance, if you type the "short cut stroke" (looks like a lower case cursive "L"), then two taps (to create a period), then a "7," it will change the possible battery type: [Alkaline], [NiCad], [Rechargeable Alkaline], [NiMH]. It seems to change the battery indicator level slightly depending on what setting you use. I'd guess that each setting uses a different algorithm that matches the characteristics of that particular battery type. Does anyone have any experience with this, pro or con?

By trial and error this is what I've discovered about the special commands:

Short cut stroke, period, 1 - freezes Palm (do soft reset)
Short cut stroke, period, 2 - seems to do nothing
Short cut stroke, period, 3 - [No Auto-Off] (no sleep until reset)
Short cut stroke, period, 4 - flashes owner name & a long string of numbers
Short cut stroke, period, 5 - seems to do nothing
Short cut stroke, period, 6 - prints a date. anyone know what it is?
Short cut stroke, period, 7 - switches battery type (see above)
Short cut stroke, period, 8 - reverses the backlight (toggle)
Short cut stroke, period, 9 - seems to do nothing

DreamWisdom

[tuffguy]

I believe the shortcut period six is the palm's birthday. does anyone disagree? You got my curiosity up now?

tuff

[DrMud]

The Dot 6 command displays the Birth Date of the ROM chip. Not the actual assembly date for the unit.
Dots 1 & 2 are actually different debugging modes.

Dot 5 does a lot. It deletes the HotSync log and the User name. On the next hotsync you'll find a world of duped entries.
Doc

PS: I discourage most folks from using any of the Dot Commands other than 3, 6, 7 and 8.

[tuffguy]

Ooops!! Does your machine still work ok Dreamwisdom?

[DreamWisdom]

Yup, it still works. I only experimented on my semi-dead Palm - the one that loses its mind every time I change batteries. That way I was pretty sure I wouldn't lose any important info. Now I'm _really_ glad I didn't try all those commands on my new Palm!

[DrMud]

I have a semi dead IIIxe I keep for much the same purpose. "Lets try this. What can it hurt!"
Glad you survived.
Doc

[hoodoo]

I keep trying the shortcut strokes to change battery type or toggle the backlight. They NEVER work for me, despite the instructions above.

I have an m105, with the battery reset problem!

ok,
a. I tap new memo
b. shortcut stroke
c. tap-tap (for a period)
d. 7

nothing happens - I tried typing with the shortcut menu activated, and whne I I waited for it to disappear, I always end up with a memo titled ".7". What am I doing wrong?:confused:

[DreamWisdom]

It sounds like you are doing it correctly, to me. I tried what you wrote and it works for me. Are you sure you are typing a "7" on the right side of the Graffiti area? Do your other shortcut strokes work? If they do, I can't imagine why this doesn't work for you. BUT, I doubt this would solve your battery problem anyway - it didn't help mine.

DreamWisdom

[DrMud]

The memo should show the change in the battery setting in brackets not the period 7 string you are seeing. Your problem is that you are not creating the "short cut command." The character is similar to a cursive "l". It can be made in the ABC section of the Graffiti area, start your stroke in the lower left, swing your stroke up, after half an inch to 3/4ths turn left and head down back toward your starting point, crossing over the up stroke near its start. The short cut "l" should now appear on the memo screen. Follow with the two taps and the 7.
Doc

[hoodoo]

AHA! :cool:

I'm still a dork with the graffiti, so once I got that stroke in, the secret commands worked great! I discovered that you need to turn the unit off/on to make them effective, though.

So now, with my NiMH batteries, I have a full charge again, not always sitting at 88%.

I started out looking for a solution to the change battery dilemma, which I will have to put up with I guess, but I learned something new! :D

Thank you all for your help, and Dr. Mud for helping me see the light!

[DrMud]

Delighted I'm sure!
Doc

[jrmene]

As my partners, I had the same problem with my Palm m125 recently. I read the various opinions about the case and none had an good result in my palm.

Finaly I decided disarm the palm (I have experience in electronics for several years and I´m in capacity of make this operation. Notes: 1. If you haven´t any experience in electronics not intent disarm the apparatus because you can damage the case or the electronic board inside. In this case, suggest get help of any friend that knows and have proved experience in electronics . 2. If the device have even warranty I suggest bring it to palm for repairment) and "surprise", in the board there are two backup capacitors vomited around it (MrMud had hit comments to respect).

Subsequently, I desolded both capacitors and cleaned it with a cleaner (thinner or isoprophilic alcohol) and q-tips. Also cleaned the board area where the capacitors are. Reinstalled the capacitors and reasembled the unit and "you can believe it", the problem disapeared.

Is possible that the indicated procedure result in the mayority of the cases. However, I recommend that the "definitive solution" of this problem is replace both capacitors for someone news.

In addition, I was investigating about the type and manufacturer of the capacitors and the caracteristics are: manufacturer: ELNA, Capacity: 0.22 F (Farads)/3.3 VDC. In the web page of ELNA (www.elna-america.com) you can find the technical characteristics of this device which are: DSK series, double layer capacitor, ELNA part No. DSK-3R3H224-H. Also, appears information about distribuitors and dealers in North America and worldwide.

I wait that this comments help us to resolve the problems with the lost memory of the palms.

JRMene

[m500 User]

Hey, call me weird, but I'd fix this problem very simply. I'd get an m500...they have a re-chargable lithium-ion battery for $150 at Best Buy, and m125's are also $150 at Best Buy. With the built-in battery, larger screen, flash ROM, and everything that an m125 has, m500's are just a better deal now!