Framework BIOS 3.06 to 3.17 Update Without Battery

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Hey All,

I bought the original 11th generation Framework 13 back in 2021, and due to work had to switch to a Macbook Pro. Got little use out of it, and am curious on getting back into it. Dusted the Framework 13 off and realized it couldn’t boot or run unless it had AC power in it. After searching, I realized that it was a pretty common CMOS battery problem. I replaced it with an ML1220 I had and still no dice. After doing some deeper poking around I found that from the sysfs data, the main battery was only outputting 2.7 Volts and in critical condition. Looks like in all those years packaged away it performed a deep discharge and ruined the battery. I planned to purchase a new 61Wh battery from the framework store but realized the battery required an updated BIOS. Since I never updated the BIOS after purchasing the laptop it was still on version 3.06, so before I can install it up to 3.24, I need to update it to 3.17 first. I am unable to update to 3.17 as the battery is inoperable. Does anyone have any experience or know of a relevant guide they could point me to? I am aware of the risks by updating without a battery and am willing to assume them. Also, am I able to just purchase the 61Wh battery and use it to update the BIOS to get the full capacity from it? Or will the laptop not even recognize it until it has the updated BIOS. I am unfamiliar with the EC for this laptop.

Thanks for all the help!

P.S. Here are the system details:

  • Framework 13 Laptop DIY edition (11th Gen)
  • CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
  • Storage: 1TB WD_BLACK SN850
  • RAM: 64GB via 2x32GB Crucial DDR4 3200 SODIMM
  • BIOS: InsydeH20 GFW30.03.06
  • Operaing System: None at this time. I am using Gentoo LiveUSB for diagnostic purposes
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You only need the updated BIOS to use the extra capacity. Until the BIOS gets updated it will treat the battery as a 55Wh one. So you can get your new battery (if they are available, there does appear to have been a shortage), get your board running, then update the BIOS.

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If you can boot on AC with the “critical” battery still connected. It may be possible to recover it by connecting both battery and AC and let the laptop charge for one day or two. 2.7V/cell may be low, but still capable of charging normally. If a fault battery is connected to the laptop, the laptop won’t POST even with AC power. If 2.7V is the voltage of the whole pack, the battery is dead and replacement is needed

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Thanks! That’s what I’ll end up going with.

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Unfortunately, I tried that when I followed the main board reset guide because I originally thought it was the failed ML1220 CMOS battery. Am open to any tips if you know of any other ideas.