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How to set clock on samsung microwave that doesn t have a clock button?

Quick Answer

Setting the clock on a Samsung microwave that doesn’t have a dedicated clock button can be tricky, but is definitely possible. The basic process involves pressing a combination of the number pads and Start button in a specific sequence to enter clock setting mode. The exact steps vary slightly by model. Generally, you’ll press Cancel or Stop/Clear first, followed by entering the current time in HH:MM format using the number pads, then Start or Cook to save. It may take a few tries to get the timing right. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact keypad sequence for your specific model.

Steps to Set the Clock on a Samsung Microwave Without a Clock Button

Here are the general steps to set the clock on a Samsung microwave without a clock button:

  1. Locate the Owner’s Manual – Consult the owner’s manual for your specific Samsung microwave model. The manual should specify the exact button sequence to enter clock setting mode. Models can vary.
  2. Press Cancel or Stop/Clear – On most models, you’ll need to press the Cancel or Stop/Clear button first. This clears any existing settings.
  3. Enter Clock Time – Use the number pads to enter the current time in HH:MM 24-hour format. For example, for 10:30 AM enter 1030. For 4:45 PM enter 1645. Press numbers slowly, pausing briefly between.
  4. Press Start or Cook – After entering the time, press Start or Cook to save the setting. You may need to try a few times to get the timing right.
  5. Check Setting – After setting, check the clock by pressing Cancel or Stop/Clear, then press Start or Cook. The clock time should display for a few seconds to confirm it is set correctly.
  6. Reset After Power Loss – Microwaves often reset after a power outage. You’ll need to re-enter the time using the steps above.

On some models, you may need to press a combination like Cancel/Stop-1-2-3 instead of just Cancel/Stop. But the general process of entering clock time then Start/Cook remains the same. Refer to your owner’s manual or online documentation for details. With some practice, you’ll get the timing down and be able to set the clock easily without a dedicated button.

Understanding Samsung Microwave Clock Setting Models

Samsung microwaves use different methods for setting the clock depending on the specific model. Here are some of the most common ways Samsung microwaves allow setting the time:

  • Dedicated Clock or Set Clock Button – Many Samsung models have a button specifically labeled Clock or Set Clock that enters clock setting mode when pressed. This offers the easiest way to set the time.
  • Start/Cook button – On some models without a dedicated clock button, pressing Start/Cook after entering the clock time sets the clock and starts the microwave.
  • Number code – Some models require pressing a code like Cancel/Stop-1-2-3 instead of just Cancel/Stop to enter clock setting.
  • Hold Cancel/Stop – On some units, you need to hold Cancel/Stop for 3+ seconds to enter clock mode after entering time.
  • Clock pad – A few models use the Clock pad for the clock setting sequence instead of Cancel/Stop.

As you can see, Samsung uses different programming on their microwaves that adapt the clock setting to work without a dedicated button. Checking your owner’s manual thoroughly is key to finding the specific sequence that works for your model.

Troubleshooting Samsung Microwave Clock Setting Issues

Here are some common troubleshooting tips for issues programming the clock on Samsung microwaves without a dedicated clock button:

  • Double check owner’s manual for right button sequence.
  • Make sure to press number pads slowly, pausing briefly between each when entering time.
  • Try holding down Cancel/Stop for 3+ seconds after entering time before pressing Start/Cook.
  • Attempt sequence multiple times, up to 10 tries, to get timing right.
  • Press only buttons mentioned in owner’s manual sequence.
  • After setting, check clock by pressing Cancel/Stop then Start/Cook – time should display for a few seconds.
  • Unplug microwave for 10+ seconds then retry if sequence still fails.

With patience and by carefully following the outlined steps, you should be able to successfully set the clock. Contact Samsung support if still unable to set after multiple tries. They can walk through the process for your specific model.

Setting Other Functions Like Kitchen Timers

In addition to the main clock, you’ll also need to set secondary functions like minute and kitchen timers on Samsung microwaves without clock buttons:

  • Minute Timer – Press number pads to enter time in minutes and seconds (e.g. 105 for 1:05), then press Start/Cook. Cancels with Cancel/Stop.
  • Kitchen Timer – Press number pads to enter time in minutes and seconds, then press Timer/Clock. Counts down without microwave operation, cancels with Cancel/Stop.

These secondary functions use the same principles of entering time via the number pads then pressing Start/Cook or Timer/Clock. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact process on your Samsung model. With practice, you’ll be able to set all clock-related functions quickly.

Alternative Ways to Track Time

If you continue having trouble setting the clock on a Samsung microwave without a dedicated button, here are some alternative options for tracking time while cooking:

  • Use the minute timer mode – Set 1 or 5 minute increments as needed for timing.
  • Use a standalone timer, clock, or your smartphone stopwatch.
  • Use a portable plug-in kitchen timer that doesn’t require programming.
  • Stick reminder notes on the microwave indicating cook times for common foods.
  • Replace the microwave control panel if model allows – panels with clock buttons are often interchangeable.

While not as convenient as having the correct time on the unit, these alternatives allow you to work around a malfunctioning or difficult to set microwave clock display. With some adaption, you can still get accurate cook times.

When to Call for Service

If you’ve thoroughly consulted the owner’s manual and still cannot get a Samsung microwave without a clock button to accept time settings, it likely requires professional service:

  • Attempt clock setting 10+ times over multiple days with no success.
  • Unable to enter any program mode like minute timer or kitchen timer.
  • Display doesn’t turn on or shows error message when attempting clock set.
  • Physical button damage prevents presses from registering.
  • Microwave does not heat food even with manual cook time entry.

Microwave control boards, membranes, and displays can deteriorate over time and fail to register button presses correctly for clock setting. In those cases, only a certified appliance repair technician has the skills and tools to properly diagnose and replace any faulty components.

Pro Tips for Setting the Clock

Follow these pro tips when trying to set the clock on a Samsung microwave without dedicated buttons:

  • Use a bright flashlight to illuminate any hard-to-see button labeling.
  • Try setting procedure early morning or late evening when not rushed.
  • Have someone press buttons as you read owner’s manual sequence aloud.
  • Use a blunt object like a popsicle stick if any button sticks.
  • Clean membrane panel with isopropyl alcohol and cotton swab before setting.
  • Refer to Youtube tutorials of the exact clock setting sequence for your model.

With focus, patience, and the right technique, you can master the clock setting process for your Samsung microwave even without a dedicated clock button. Consider a unit upgrade if the model proves too difficult to program reliably.

Conclusion

Setting the clock on Samsung microwaves without a dedicated clock button requires pressing a specific sequence of Cancel/Stop, number pads, and Start/Cook to enter clock setting mode. While the process varies by model, the overall timing, button order, and confirmation are similar across units. Checking your owner’s manual diligently and following troubleshooting tips will help overcome common programming issues. With practice, you’ll be able to set the accurate time for optimal cooking even without a one-touch clock function. Consider professional service if the unit has underlying control board issues that prevent successful programming despite your best efforts.