the clock on my farberware microwave resets to 0:00 every time i have a power flicker, is there a battery?

Diagnosis

The Farberware FMO11AHTBKB is designed as a cost-effective, entry-level appliance. Unlike high-end convection ovens or smart appliances, this model lacks a Non-Volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM) chip or a CMOS backup battery (such as a CR2032 coin cell) on its main control board. The clock function relies entirely on a continuous flow of AC current to maintain the oscillation of its internal timing circuit. When a power flicker occurs—even for a fraction of a second—the capacitors on the control board discharge completely. This causes the microprocessor to trigger a hard reset, wiping the temporary memory where the current time is stored. Consequently, the display defaults to 0:00, which serves as a system notification that the device has lost power and requires a manual time synchronization. If your clock is resetting frequently without a noticeable utility outage, it may indicate a loose power cord connection or a failing capacitor on the board, but in 99% of cases, it is simply the result of the hardware's lack of a battery backup.

How to Fix It

Since there is no internal battery to install, the only solution is to manually re-program the clock after every power event. Follow these precise steps to ensure the clock locks in correctly:

1. Ensure the microwave is plugged into a grounded 120V AC outlet. If the display shows 0:00 or is flashing, the unit is in "Set" mode.
2. Press the Clock button once. The display will typically begin to flash, indicating it is ready for input.
3. Using the numeric keypad, enter the current time. Enter the hours first, then the minutes (e.g., for 12:30, press 1, 2, 3, 0).
4. Press the Clock button a second time to confirm and lock in the time. The display should stop flashing and begin counting normally.
5. If you make a mistake during entry, press the Clear/Off button to reset the input process and start from step 2.

If That Didn't Work

If the clock continues to reset even when your home power seems stable, or if you cannot get the time to "stick," try these alternatives:

• Install a Small UPS: Plug the microwave into a small, high-capacity Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) or a battery backup surge protector. This provides a bridge of power during flickers, preventing the control board from losing its memory. Ensure the UPS is rated for the high wattage of a microwave, though most only support the clock/display standby power.
• Check the Power Cord Seating: Ensure the 3-prong plug is pushed firmly into the wall outlet. A loose connection can cause "micro-outages" that reset the clock without tripping a circuit breaker.
• Test on a Different Circuit: Move the unit to a different outlet on a separate circuit breaker. If the clock stops resetting, the original outlet may have a faulty connection or be shared with a high-draw appliance (like a refrigerator) that causes voltage dips.
• Hard Reset the Logic Board: Unplug the unit from the wall for exactly 60 seconds. This allows all residual energy to drain from the capacitors. Plug it back in and set the clock immediately to clear any software glitches in the control board's volatile memory.

Heads Up

• Avoid Extension Cords: Never use a power strip or extension cord with this microwave. The high current draw can cause voltage drops that may trigger the clock to reset or, worse, cause the cord to overheat.
• Child Lock Feature: If the buttons aren't responding while you try to set the clock, check if the Child Lock is engaged. Usually, holding the Stop/Clear button for 3 seconds will toggle this feature.
• Voltage Spikes: Power flickers are often accompanied by voltage surges. If the clock resets and you notice the display flickering or dimming, your home may have "dirty power," and a dedicated surge protector is highly recommended to prevent the control board from frying.