How to Reset the Time Attendance Machine?
Time attendance machines like ZKTeco are widely used to track employee in-and-out time, overtime, and attendance summaries. When these devices hang, display errors, or have settings corrupted, a factory reset is sometimes the quickest way to restore normal operation.
Before resetting, always remember: a factory reset may erase all attendance logs, user data, and settings if the device lacks a backup or cloud sync. Make sure you back up your data first, or consult your support provider, to avoid losing important records.
When should you reset a time attendance machine?
A reset is usually considered when:
- The device is frozen, running very slowly, or repeatedly restarting.
- Admin password or menu access is lost, and no one can change settings.
- Network, time, or attendance policies have become unstable after repeated incorrect configurations.
- You are moving the device to a new branch and want to start with a clean configuration.
If normal restarts and minor configuration changes do not resolve the issue, a factory reset is a last resort to restore the device to its original default state.
General reset steps
Although the button arrangement and menu names can vary by model, ZKTeco time attendance devices follow a similar reset process (a sequence of steps to restore settings). Ensure the device is connected to a stable power source (steady electrical current) or uninterruptible power supply (UPS—a backup battery device) to prevent power loss during the reset.
Step-by-step reset process
- Turn on the time attendance machine.
- Wait until the main or standby screen loads fully.
- Wait until the main screen or standby screen appears.
Open the main menu
- Hold the M or OK button until the main menu appears or a password is requested.
- On many models, this brings up the main menu or asks for an administrator password.
Enter the default password.
If the device uses factory settings or the default admin account, try passwords like 12345 or 8888. If defaults fail, you need the current password or professional support. Navigate to the factory reset option.
From the menu, go to:
- Menu > Settings > Restore Factory Settings.
- On some models, look for System, Advanced Settings, or Default Settings.
- Review the on-screen instructions before confirming the reset.
- Confirm the factory reset.
- Select OK, Yes, or Restore when prompted for confirmation.
- The machine will reboot or display a progress bar while clearing its configuration.
After completion, the device usually restarts with the default language, time, and an empty user list, ready for a fresh setup.
After reset, you must reconfigure date and time, device ID (a unique number for each device), network (set an IP address or Wi-Fi), company name or logo (if supported), and re-enroll users (register employees again) or resync (update) from your management software or server.
Important precautions before resetting
Because a factory reset cannot be undone (irreversible), treat it like erasing everything from a phone or computer. All stored data and customised settings will be lost.
- Backup attendance logs to a USB drive, an SD card, or via a connected software application before performing a reset.
- Note down the network settings (IP address, gateway, server address) to quickly reconnect after a reset.
- Confirm with HR/payroll that all necessary reports have been exported for the current period.
- Check warranty and service terms, as unauthorized actions may affect free support for some devices.
When unsure, contact an authorized support center or your supplier. This helps prevent unintentional data loss and ensures your device is reset and reconfigured correctly by professionals familiar with the equipment.
Who can help reset your time attendance system?
For businesses in Bangladesh, professional support saves time and avoids costly mistakes, especially when managing multi‑branch attendance devices. If you are not comfortable doing a factory reset or have forgotten the admin password, dedicated technical teams can handle this remotely or on‑site.
DigiMark support for time attendance systems
DigiMark provides comprehensive assistance for popular time attendance brands like ZKTeco, including:
- Password unlock and access recovery, where possible.
- Safe backup of attendance logs before reset.
- Proper factory reset and fresh configuration.
- Network setup with your server or cloud software.
- Post‑reset testing to ensure punches sync correctly.
You can reach DigiMark through:
Technical Support: +88019889 99916
RMA Support (repair/replacement): +8801979 234327
If your time attendance device is not responding, showing frequent errors, or you are unsure which reset method is correct for your model, contact DigiMark Support directly for quick, expert assistance.
