This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:
You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide.
A component can be replaced by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.
Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
Small flat-blade screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Flash BIOS update program floppy disk or CD
Turn Off Your Computer
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn off your computer.
Shut down the operating system:
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start button, and then click Turn
Off Computer.
In the Turn off computer window, click Turn off.
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.
Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached
devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, turn them off now.
Before Working Inside Your Computer
Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help ensure your own personal safety.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.
NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.
NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself. Some cables have a connector with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer.
NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network port or device.
Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the
power button to ground the system board.
Removing the Computer Cover and Front Panel
Removing the Computer Cover
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
If you have installed a security cable, remove it from the security cable slot.
NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to support the removed cover—at least 30 cm (1 ft) of desk top space.
NOTICE: Ensure that you are working on a level, protected surface to avoid scratching either the computer or the surface on which it is resting.
Lay your computer on a flat surface with the cover facing up.
Pull back the cover latch release.
NOTE: If you have a desktop computer, the drives will appear differently.
1
cover latch release
2
computer cover
3
cover hinges
Locate the three hinge tabs on the edge of the computer.
Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up, using the hinges as leverage points.
Release the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside in a secure location.
Removing the Front Panel
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
NOTE: If you have a desktop computer, the drives will appear differently.
Lift the front-panel release lever and slide the panel to the left to disengage and remove the front
panel.
Chassis Intrusion Switch
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
Disconnect the chassis intrusion switch cable from the system board.
Note the routing of the chassis intrusion switch cable as you remove it from the chassis. Chassis hooks may hold the cable in place inside the chassis.
Using a flat blade screwdriver, gently slide the chassis intrusion switch out of its slot, and remove the
switch and its attached cable from the computer.
Replacing the Chassis Intrusion Switch
Gently slide the chassis intrusion switch into its slot and reconnect the cable to the system board.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Resetting the Chassis Intrusion Detector
Turn on (or restart) your computer.
When the blue DELL™ logo appears, press <F2> immediately.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. Then shut down your computer (see Turn Off Your Computer) and try again.
Enter System Setup (see Entering System Setup), select the Chassis Intrusion option, and then press
the left- or right-arrow key to select Reset. Change the setting to On, On-Silent, or Disabled.
NOTE: The default setting is On-Silent.
Press <Alt><b> to restart the computer and implement your changes.
Memory
For information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see Specifications.
NOTICE: Before you install new memory modules, download the most recent BIOS for your computer from the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com.
Memory Overview
Memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology. If the memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. See the label in the upper-right corner of the module to determine the module's capacity.
NOTE: Always install memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.
The recommended memory configurations are:
A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2
or
A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 and another matched pair installed in connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4
If you install mixed pairs of DDR2 memory that run at different speeds, the modules function at the slowest speed installed.
Be sure to install a single memory module in the DIMM_1 connector, the connector closest to the processor, before you install modules in the other connectors.
While installing memory modules, ensure that you do not mix ECC and non-ECC memory.
A
matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 (white securing clips)
B
matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4 (black securing clips)
NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.
NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 or connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4.
Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations
Your computer supports a maximum of 8 GB of memory when you use four 2-GB DIMMs. Current operating systems, such as Microsoft® Windows® XP, can only use a maximum of 4 GB of address space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is less than 4 GB. Certain components within the computer require address space in the 4-GB range. Any address space reserved for these components cannot be used by computer memory.
NOTE: If you use a 64-bit version operating system, the entire memory range is available to the operating system.
The following components require memory address space:
System ROM
APIC(s)
Integrated PCI devices, such as network connectors, SAS controllers, and IEEE 1394 controllers
PCI or PCI Express devices/cards
At start-up, the BIOS identifies the components that require address space. The BIOS dynamically calculates the amount of reserved address space required. The BIOS then subtracts the reserved address space from 4 GB to determine the amount of usable space.
If the total installed computer memory is less than the usable space, all installed computer memory is available for use only by the operating system.
If the total installed computer memory is equal to or greater than the usable address space, a small portion of installed memory is available for use by the operating system.
Installing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Press <F2> to enter system setup and check the value for System Memory.
The computer should have changed the value of System Memory to reflect the newly installed memory. Verify the new total. If it is correct, skip to step 10.
If the memory total is incorrect, turn off and disconnect your computer and devices from their
electrical outlets, remove the computer cover (see Removing the Computer Cover), and check the
installed memory modules to ensure that they are seated properly in their sockets. Then repeat steps 6,
7, and 8.
When the System Memory total is correct, press <Esc> to exit system setup.
Run the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics) to verify that the memory modules are operating
properly.
Removing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
Grasp the module and pull up.
If the module is difficult to remove, gently ease the module back and forth to remove it from the connector.
Drives
Tower Computer Drives
Possible fully-populated computer configurations:
Four serial ATA (SATA) hard drives, one optical drive, and one floppy drive or one Media Card Reader
Three (SAS or SATA) hard drives, one optical drive, and one floppy drive or one Media Card Reader
One or two (SAS or SATA) hard drives with up to two optical drives and one floppy drive or one Media Card Reader
1
upper 5.25-inch drive bay (holds CD/DVD drive)
2
lower 5.25-inch drive bay (holds optional CD/DVD drive or optional fourth serial ATA hard drive)
3*
additional fan space
4
secondary hard drive
5
primary hard drive
6
lower 3.5-inch drive bay (holds floppy drive or optional Media Card Reader)
7
upper 3.5-inch drive bay (holds optional third serial ATA or SAS hard drive, floppy drive, or Media Card Reader)
Desktop Computer Drives
Possible fully-populated computer configurations:
Three hard drives (two SAS and one SATA, one SAS and two SATA, or three SATA drives), one optical drive, and one floppy drive or one Media Card Reader
One or two (SAS or SATA) hard drives with up to two optical drives and one floppy drive or Media Card Reader
1
upper 5.25-inch drive bay (holds CD/DVD drive)
2
lower 5.25-inch drive bay (holds CD/DVD drive or optional third serial ATA hard drive
3*
additional fan location (not present in this image)
4
second hard drive in secondary hard-drive bay
5
first hard drive in primary hard-drive bay
6
3.5-inch drive bay (holds floppy drive or optional Media Card Reader)
About the Metal Shields Present in Some Drive Configurations
In certain computer configurations, metal shields are present in the drive bays of your computer. If metal shields are present in your computer configuration, they are essential and must be installed in the appropriate bays at all times.
NOTICE: If metal shields are present in your computer configuration, they must be installed at all times while your computer is in use or your computer may not function properly.
Note that if a metal shield is installed over a hard drive, and you install an optical drive in its place, a shield is not needed in that bay. In this situation, the metal shield should be kept in case it is needed later.
If you remove a hard drive, optical drive, media card reader, or floppy drive from your computer, you will need to install a metal shield in its place. If a metal shield is not installed in any of these cases, your computer may not function properly. Contact Dell if you need an extra shield (see Contacting Dell).
Removing and Replacing the FlexBay Metal Shield
To remove a metal shield from the lower Flexbay:
Slide the sliding-plate lever to the right and hold it in place as you pull to remove the vented metal insert from the FlexBay.
To replace a metal shield over the lower drive bays:
Align the metal insert's two upper screws and its two lower screws with the corresponding slots
inside the FlexBay.
Push the vented metal insert until it clicks into place and its metal tabs rest flush against the
chassis surface.
Removing and Replacing an Upper Drive Bay Metal Shield
To remove a metal shield from one of the upper drive bays:
Grasp the metal shield by it's tab located in the center of the front surface.
Pull the shield out by the tab in a straight motion to avoid tearing the tab from the shield.
To replace a metal shield from one of the upper drive bays, align the shield so that it fits snugly with the drive bay and press in gently until it is flush with the surface of the bay.
General Installation Guidelines
When you install a drive, you connect two cables—a DC power cable from the power supply and a data cable—to the back of the drive. The other end of the data cable will connect to either an expansion card or to the system board. Most connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector.
Power Cable Connectors
1
power cable
2
power input connector
When connecting an IDE data cable, align the tab on one connector with the notch on the other. When disconnecting an IDE data cable, grasp the colored pull-tab and pull until the connector detaches.
When you connect two IDE devices to a single IDE data cable and configure the devices for the cable select setting, the device attached to the last connector on the data cable is primary or the boot device, and the device attached to the middle connector on the data cable is the secondary device. See the drive documentation in your upgrade kit for information on configuring devices for the cable select setting.
When connecting a SAS or SATA cable, hold the cable by the connector at each end and press firmly into the connector. When disconnecting a SAS or SATA cable, hold the cable by the connector at each end and pull until the connector detaches.
SATA Data Cable Connectors
1
SATA data cable
2
SATA data connector (on the system board
3
SATA drive
SAS Data Cable Connectors
1
power cable
2
SAS connector
3
SAS drive
4
SAS data cable
5
SAS connector
6
optional PCI Express SAS controller card
Drive Cable Colors
Device
Color
Hard drive
blue cable
Floppy drive
black pull-tab
CD/DVD drive
orange pull-tab
Hard Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
CAUTION: For configurations with three SAS hard drives, you must install an additional fan. See Installing an Additional Fan.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the hard drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.
If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data that you want to keep, back up your files before you
begin this procedure.
Disconnect the serial ATA cable from the hard drive.
Disconnect the serial ATA cable from the SATA0 or SATA1 connector on the system board,
depending on whether you are removing the hard drive from the secondary or primary hard-drive
bay.
1
SATA0 connector
2
SATA1 connector
3
power cable
4
serial ATA cable
To remove a SAS hard drive:
Disconnect the power cable from the SAS drive.
Remove the SAS connector from the hard drive.
Disconnect the SAS cable from the SAS controller card.
1
SAS connector on SAS controller card
2
SAS connector on SAS controller card
3
hard drive in secondary hard-drive bay
4
hard drive in primary hard-drive bay
5
blue tabs (2 on each hard-drive bracket)
Press in on the blue tabs on each side of the hard-drive bracket and slide the drive up and out of the
primary or secondary hard-drive bay.
1
blue tabs (2)
2
secondary hard-drive bay
3
hard drive in primary hard-drive bay
Installing a Hard Drive or Adding a Second Optional Hard Drive (Tower or Desktop Computer)
Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation.
Check the documentation for the hard drive to verify that the drive is configured for your computer.
NOTE: If a hard-drive bracket is still installed in the inside of the hard-drive bay, remove the bracket before you install the new hard drive with the new or old hard-drive bracket.
If your replacement hard drive does not have the hard-drive bracket attached, remove the bracket from
the old drive by unsnapping it from the drive. Snap the bracket onto the new drive.
1
drive
2
hard-drive bracket
NOTICE: If you are installing only one hard drive, install it in the primary hard-drive bay. If you are adding a second hard drive, install it in the secondary hard-drive bay.
Slide the hard drive into the primary or secondary hard-drive bay until it clicks securely into place.
Connect the power cable to the drive.
Install the hard drive.
To install a serial ATA hard drive:
Connect one end of the serial ATA cable to the hard drive.
If you are installing a serial ATA hard drive in the primary hard-drive bay, connect the other end of
the serial ATA cable to the SATA0 connector on the system board.
If you are installing a serial ATA hard drive in the secondary hard-drive bay, connect the other end of the serial ATA cable to the SATA1 connector on the system board.
1
serial ATA cable
2
SATA0 connector
3
SATA1 connector
4
power cable
5
secondary hard-drive bay
6
hard drive in lower hard-drive bay
To install a SAS hard drive:
Connect the power cable to the SAS connector.
Connect the SAS connector to the hard drive.
Connect the other end of the SAS cable to the SAS controller card.
Ensure that all connectors are properly cabled and firmly seated.
Disconnect the power cable from the back of the hard drive and from the power supply.
If you are removing a SATA drive, disconnect the serial ATA cable from the back of the hard drive and
from the SATA connector on the system board.
1
power cable
2
serial ATA cable
3
SATA connector
4
optional third serial ATA/SAS hard drive
If you are removing a SAS drive:
Disconnect the power cable form the SAS connector.
Disconnect the SAS connector from the hard drive.
Disconnect the SAS connector from the SAS controller card.
Slide the sliding-plate lever to the right to release the shoulder screw and slide the drive out of the
lower 3.5-inch drive bay.
Set the drive aside in a secure location.
If you are removing a hard drive that has a metal shield, and are not going to install a replacement drive
in the drive bay, reinstall the shield in the empty bay (see About the Metal Shields Present in Some
Drive Configurations). Then, install a drive-panel insert (see Replacing a Drive-Panel Insert).
Installing an Optional Third Hard Drive (Tower Computer)
NOTICE: Do not attempt to install an SAS hard drive in the lower 3.5-inch drive bay. This drive bay will only support a floppy drive or a Media Card Reader.
If you are installing a new drive, unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.
Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
NOTE: Drive-panel inserts may contain screws on the inside. You can attach the screws to new drives that do not have any screws
If you are installing a new drive, remove the drive panel (see Drive Panel) and the drive-panel insert (see
Drive-Panel Inserts) from the upper 3.5-inch drive bay. Use the screws provided with the new drive to
install the drive into the drive bay.
Disconnect the power cable from the back of the hard drive.
Disconnect the serial ATA cable from the back of the hard drive and from the SATA connector on the
system board.
1
sliding-plate lever
2
optional fourth hard drive
Slide the sliding-plate lever to release the shoulder screw and slide the drive out of the lower 5.25-inch
drive bay.
Set the drive aside in a secure location.
Installing an Optional Fourth Hard Drive (Tower Computer)
NOTICE: In a tower configuration with multiple optional drives, there can only be one floppy drive or Media Card Reader- which must be installed in the lower 3.5-inch drive bay. The 3rd hard drive must occupy the upper 3.5-inch drive bay. The fourth hard drive must occupy the lower 5.25-inch drive bay.
If you are installing a new drive, unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.
Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
NOTE: Drive-panel inserts may contain screws on the inside. You can attach the screws to new drives that do not have any screws
If you are installing a new drive, remove the drive panel (see Drive Panel) and the drive-panel insert (see
Drive-Panel Inserts) from the lower 5.25-inch drive bay. Use the screws provided with the new drive to
install the drive into the drive bay.
Slide the sliding-plate lever and hold it in place as you guide the drive into the lower 5.25-inch drive
bay and gently slide it in until it is securely seated.
1
sliding-plate lever
2
optional fourth hard drive
Connect a power cable to the hard drive and to the power supply.
Connect the serial ATA cable to the back of the drive and to the SATA3 connector on the system
board.
Removing an Optional Third Hard Drive (Desktop Computer)
Disconnect the power cable from the back of the hard drive and from the power supply.
If you are removing a SATA drive, disconnect the serial ATA cable from the back of the hard drive and
from the SATA connector on the system board.
1
power cable
2
power supply
3
serial ATA cable
4
SATA2 connector
5
optional serial ATA hard drive in lower 5.25-inch drive bay
If you are removing a SAS drive:
Disconnect the power cable form the SAS connector.
Disconnect the SAS connector from the hard drive.
Disconnect the SAS connector from the SAS controller card.
Slide the sliding-plate lever to the right to release the shoulder screw and slide the drive out of the
lower 5.25-inch drive bay.
1
sliding-plate lever
2
optional third hard drive in lower 5.25-inch drive bay
Set the drive aside in a secure location.
If you are removing a hard drive that has a metal shield, and are not going to install a replacement drive
in the drive bay, reinstall the shield in the empty bay (see About the Metal Shields Present in Some
Drive Configurations). Then, install a drive-panel insert (see Replacing a Drive-Panel Insert).
Installing an Optional Third Hard Drive (Desktop Computer)
CAUTION: For configurations with three SAS hard drives, you must install an additional fan. See Installing an Additional Fan.
If you are installing a new drive, unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.
Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
If you are installing a new drive, remove the drive panel (see Drive Panel) and the drive-panel insert (see
Drive-Panel Inserts) from the lower 5.25-inch drive bay.
If you already have a drive installed in the lower 5.25-inch drive bay, remove the optical or hard drive.
Place the hard drive in the hard-drive bracket and press the drive down until it snaps securely into
place.
1
hard drive
2
hard-drive bracket
Slide the hard drive in the hard-drive bracket into the hard-drive holder.
1
hard-drive holder
2
hard drive in hard-drive bracket
Slide the hard-drive holder into the lower 5.25-inch drive bay until it is securely seated.
1
sliding-plate lever
2
hard-drive holder with hard drive
NOTE: The optional third hard drive is located in the lower 5.25-inch drive bay for desktop computers.
Connect a power cable to the hard drive and to the power supply.
Connect the serial ATA cable to the back of the drive and to the SATA3 connector on the system
board.
1
power cable
2
power supply
3
serial ATA cable
4
SATA3 connector
5
optional serial ATA hard drive (desktop illustrated)
NOTE: The optional third hard drive is located in the lower 5.25-inch drive bay for desktop computers.
Installing an Additional Fan
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
CAUTION: For configurations with three SAS hard drives, you must install an additional fan. See Installing an Additional Fan.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the drive, do not set it on a hard surface. Instead, set the drive on a surface, such as a foam pad, that will sufficiently cushion it.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
NOTE: If you have a desktop computer, the drives and drive panel will appear differently.
1
sliding plate
2
sliding-plate lever
3
drive panel
NOTE: This sliding plate secures and releases the drive panel and helps to secure the drives.
Grasping the lever on the sliding plate, pull the sliding plate to the right until it releases the drive panel
from its side hinges.
Set the drive panel aside in a secure location.
Removing a Drive-Panel Insert
NOTICE: Drive-panel inserts may contain screws on the inside. You can attach the screws to new drives that do not have any screws.
1
drive panel
2
drive-panel insert
3
drive-panel insert release tabs (2)
4
drive-panel insert tab in tab slot
NOTICE: To avoid breaking the drive-panel insert tab, do not pull the insert more than approximately 1 cm (½ inch) away from the drive panel before sliding the tab out of the slot.
On the inside of the drive panel, pinch the two drive-panel insert release tabs together and pull the
insert out and to the right just enough to release it from the drive panel.
Set the drive-panel insert aside in a secure location.
Replacing a Drive-Panel Insert
Place the drive-panel insert tab into the drive-panel slot.
Pinch the drive-panel insert release tabs and press the drive panel insert into place.
1
drive panel
2
drive-panel insert
3
drive-panel insert release tabs (2)
4
drive-panel insert tab in tab slot
Ensure that the drive-panel insert is correctly seated in the drive panel.
Replacing the Drive Panel
Align the drive-panel tabs with the side-door hinges.
1
sliding plate
2
sliding-plate lever
3
drive panel
4
drive-panel tabs
Rotate the drive panel toward the computer until it snaps into place on the front panel.
Floppy Drive or Media Card Reader
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
Disconnect the power cable from the back of the floppy drive.
Disconnect the data cable from the back of the floppy drive.
If you are removing a Media Card Reader, disconnect the data cable from the back of the Media Card
Reader.
Disconnect the other end of the data cable from the system board connector labeled "FLOPPY" (for a
floppy drive) or "FLEXBAY" (for a Media Card Reader). To locate system board connectors, see System
Board Components.
1
power cable
2
floppy-drive cable
3
floppy-drive connector (FLOPPY)
Slide the sliding-plate lever to the right to release the shoulder screw and slide the drive or Media Card
Reader out of the 3.5-inch drive bay.
Installing a Floppy Drive or Media Card Reader (Tower Computer)
NOTICE: In a tower configuration with 4 hard drives, there can only be one floppy drive or Media Card Reader which must be installed in the lower 3.5-inch drive bay. In this case, the 4th hard drive (which must be a SATA drive) will occupy the upper 3.5-inch drive bay.
If you are installing a new floppy drive or Media Card Reader, remove the drive-panel insert (see
Removing a Drive-Panel Insert) and remove the shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-panel
insert. Attach the screws to the new drive.
1
floppy drive
2
screws (4)
Gently slide the drive into place in the 3.5-inch bay until you hear a click or feel the drive securely
installed.
If you are installing a floppy drive:
Connect the power cable from to the back of the floppy drive.
Connect the data cable to the back of the floppy drive.
If you are installing a Media Card Reader, connect the data cable to the back of the Media Card Reader.
Connect the other end of the data cable to the system board connector labeled "FLOPPY" (for a floppy
drive) or "FLEXBAY" (for a Media Card Reader). To locate system board connectors, see System Board
Components.
1
drive-conversion latch
2
power cable
3
floppy-drive cable
4
floppy-drive connector (FLOPPY)
Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling
vents.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network port or device and then plug it in to the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup) and select the appropriate Diskette Drive option (for
a floppy drive) or a USB option (for a Media Card Reader).
Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).
Removing a Floppy Drive or a Media Card Reader (Desktop Computer)
Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the floppy drive or Media Card Reader.
Disconnect the other end of the floppy-drive cable from the system board connector labeled
"FLOPPY" (for a floppy drive) or "FLEXBAY" (for a Media Card Reader). To locate system board
connectors, see System Board Components.
1
power cable
2
floppy-drive cable
3
floppy-drive connector (FLOPPY)
Pull the desktop drive retention insert by the handle and set it aside in a safe place.
Slide the sliding-plate lever to the right to release the shoulder screw and slide the drive out of the 3.5-
inch drive bay.
1
drive retention insert
2
sliding-plate lever
3
floppy drive
Installing a Floppy Drive or Media Card Reader (Desktop Computer)
If you are installing a new floppy drive or Media Card Reader, remove the drive-panel insert (see
Removing a Drive-Panel Insert) and remove the shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-panel
insert and attach the screws to the new drive.
1
drive
2
screws (2)
Gently slide the drive into place until you hear a click or feel the drive securely installed.
Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive or Media Card Reader.
Connect the other end of the data cable to the system board connector labeled "FLOPPY" (for a floppy
drive) or "FLEXBAY" (for a Media Card Reader). To locate system board connectors, see System Board
Components.
1
power cable
2
floppy-drive cable
3
floppy-drive connector (FLOPPY)
Replace the desktop drive retainer insert and fold the handle down.
Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling
vents.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network port or device and then plug it in to the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup) and select the appropriate Diskette Drive (for a
floppy drive) or USB (for a Media Card Reader) option.
Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).
CD/DVD Drive
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
Disconnect the power cable from the back of the drive and the CD/DVD-drive cable from the back of
the drive and the system board.
1
CD/DVD-drive cable
2
power cable
3
system board CD/DVD connector
Slide the sliding-plate lever to the right to release the shoulder screw and slide the drive out to remove
it from the drive bay.
1
sliding-plate lever
2
CD/DVD drive
Installing a CD/DVD Drive (Tower Computer)
NOTICE: In a tower configuration with 4 hard drives, there can only be one optical drive which must be installed in the upper 5.25-inch drive bay. In this case, the 3rd hard drive will occupy the upper 3.5-inch drive bay. The fourth hard drive will occupy the lower 5.25-inch drive bay..
If you are installing a new drive, unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.
Check the documentation that accompanied the drive to verify that the drive is configured for your computer. If you are installing an IDE drive, configure the drive for the cable select setting.
If you are installing a new drive, remove the drive-panel insert (see Removing a Drive-Panel Insert) and
remove the shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-panel insert and attach the screws to the new
drive.
Gently slide the drive into place until the drive securely clicks into position.
Connect the power cable to the drive, and connect the CD/DVD-drive cable to the drive and to the
system board.
1
CD/DVD-drive cable
2
power cable
3
system-board CD/DVD-drive connector
Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling
vents.
Disconnect the power cable from the back of the drive and the CD/DVD-drive cable from the back of
the drive and the system board.
1
CD/DVD-drive cable
2
power cable
3
system-board CD/DVD- drive connector
Pull the drive retention insert out by the handle and set it aside in a safe place.
Slide the drive out and remove it from the drive bay.
1
drive retention insert
2
CD/DVD drive
Installing a CD/DVD Drive (Desktop Computer)
NOTICE: In a desktop configuration with 3 hard drives, there can only be one optical drive which must be installed in the upper 5.25-inch drive bay. In this case, the 3rd hard drive will occupy the lower 5.25-inch drive bay.
If you are installing a new drive, unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.
Check the documentation that accompanied the drive to verify that the drive is configured for your computer. If you are installing an IDE drive, configure the drive for the cable select setting.
If you are installing a new drive, remove the drive-panel insert (see Removing a Drive-Panel Insert) and
remove the shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-panel insert and attach the screws to the new
drive.
Gently slide the drive into place until the drive securely clicks into position.
Connect the power cable to the drive, and connect the CD/DVD-drive cable to the drive and to the
system board.
1
CD/DVD-drive cable
2
power cable
3
system-board CD/DVD-drive connector
Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to avoid blocking the fan and cooling vents.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable in to the network port or device and then plug it in to the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to their electrical outlets, and turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup) and select the appropriate Drive option.
Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).
Cards
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
NOTE: Check the documentation for cards to ensure that you can accommodate them in your configuration. Some cards that require more physical space and power (such as PCI Express graphics cards) may restrict the use of other cards.
Your Dell™ computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards:
If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
Installing a PCI Card
NOTE: Dell offers a customer kit for Audigy II and IEEE 1394 PCI cards that includes a front-mounted IEEE 1394 connector. For more information about connecting the card cable to the I/O panel, see I/O Panel.
Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because
the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.
1
release tab
2
card retention mechanism
3
card retention door
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the card in place from the top:
Pivot the mechanism upward and gently press the release tab downward to release the mechanism
from the two tab slots holding it in place.
Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.
If you are installing a long card, repeat step 4 for the card retention mechanism near the system fan.
If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue
with step 8.
If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.
Prepare the card for installation.
See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.
CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.
Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.
1
bracket within slot
2
bracket caught outside of slot
3
card fully seated
4
card not fully seated
Before you close the card retention door, ensure that:
The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.
The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.
1
card retention door
2
release tab
Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the card(s).
NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.
Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
See the documentation for the card for information about the card's cable connections.
If you replaced a card that was already installed in the computer and you removed one or both
retention mechanisms, you may reinstall the retention mechanisms.
Before replacing a card retention mechanism, ensure that:
The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.
The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.
Snap the card retention mechanism into place, securing the card. Repeat if the card retention
mechanism near the system fan was also removed.
1
release tab
2
card retention mechanism
3
card retention door
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug the cable into the computer.
Replace the computer cover (see Replacing the Computer Cover), reconnect the computer and
devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
If you installed a sound card:
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup), select Audio Controller, and then change the
setting to Off.
Connect external audio devices to the sound card's connectors. Do not connect external audio
devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel.
If you installed a network adapter card and want to disable the integrated network adapter:
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup), select Network Controller, and then change the
setting to Off.
Connect the network cable to the network adapter cards connectors. Do not connect the network
cable to the network connector on the back panel.
Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.
Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because
the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.
1
release tab
2
card retention mechanism
3
card retention door
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the card in place from the top:
Pivot the mechanism upward and gently press the release tab downward to release the mechanism
from the two tab slots holding it in place.
Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it
out of its connector.
If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening.
NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network adapter and then plug the cable into the computer.
Replace the computer cover, (see Replacing the Computer Cover), reconnect the computer and
devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
Uninstall the driver for the removed card. See the documentation that came with the card.
If you removed a sound card:
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup), select Audio Controller, and then change the
setting to On.
Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the computer.
If you removed a network adapter card:
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup), select Network Controller, and then change the
setting to On.
Connect the network cable to the network connector on the back panel of the computer.
PCI Express Cards
Your computer supports:
one PCI Express x16 card or x1 card in a x16 slot
one PCI Express x8, x4, or x1 card in a x8 slot (wired as x4)
one PCI Express x1 card in a x1 slot
NOTE: Check the documentation for cards to ensure that you can accommodate them in your configuration. Some cards that require more physical space and power (such as PCI Express graphics cards) may restrict the use of other cards.
If you are installing or replacing a PCI Express card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing, but not replacing a card, see Removing a PCI Express Card.
If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card.
Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because
the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.
1
release tab
2
card retention mechanism
3
card retention door
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the card in place from the top:
Pivot the mechanism upward and gently press the release tab downward to release the mechanism
from the two tab slots holding it in place.
Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.
If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then, continue
with step 7.
If you are replacing a card that is already installed in the computer, remove the card.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. If your card includes a retention mechanism, remove the top of the retention mechanism by pressing the tab and pulling up on the top. Gently pull the securing tab, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease it out of its connector.
1
PCI Express x16 card
2
PCI Express x16 card slot
3
securing tab
4
PCI Express x1 card
58
PCI Express x1 card slot
Prepare the card for installation.
See the documentation that came with the card for information on configuring the card, making internal connections, or otherwise customizing it for your computer.
CAUTION: Some network adapters automatically start the computer when they are connected to a network. To guard against electrical shock, be sure to unplug your computer from its electrical outlet before installing any cards.
If you are installing the card into the card connector, position the card so that the securing slot is
aligned with the securing tab, and gently pull the securing tab.
NOTICE: Ensure that you release the securing tab to unseat the card. If the card is not removed correctly, the system board may be damaged.
Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.
1
alignment guide
2
bracket caught outside of slot
3
bracket within slot
4
alignment bar
5
fully seated card
6
not fully seated card
If you replaced a card that was already installed in the computer and you removed the retention
mechanism, you may reinstall the retention mechanism.
Before replacing the card retention mechanism, ensure that:
The tops of all cards and filler brackets are flush with the alignment bar.
The notch in the top of the card or filler bracket fits around the alignment guide.
Snap the card retention mechanism into place, securing the card.
1
release tab
2
card retention mechanism
3
release tabs (2)
NOTICE: Do not route card cables over or behind the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network adapter and then plug the cable into the computer.
Replace the computer cover, (see Replacing the Computer Cover), reconnect the computer and
devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
If you installed a sound card:
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup), select Audio Controller, and then change the
setting to Off.
Connect external audio devices to the sound card's connectors. Do not connect external audio
devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel.
If you installed a network adapter card and want to disable the integrated network adapter:
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup), select Network Controller, and then change the
setting to Off.
Connect the network cable to the network adapter card. Do not connect the network cable to the
integrated connector on the back panel.
Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.
Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. Because
the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.
1
release tab
2
card retention mechanism
3
card retention door
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the card in place from the top:
Pivot the mechanism upward and gently press the release tab downward to release the mechanism
from the two tab slots holding it in place.
Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.
If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card. Grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it
out of its connector.
If you are removing the card permanently, install a filler bracket in the empty card-slot opening.
NOTE: Installing filler brackets over empty card-slot openings is necessary to maintain FCC certification of the computer. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of your computer.
Reseat the card retention mechanism in the tabs and pivot downward to snap it into place.
Close the card retention door to snap it into place to secure the card(s).
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network adapter and then plug the cable into the computer.
Replace the computer cover, (see Replacing the Computer Cover), reconnect the computer and
devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
Uninstall the driver for the removed card. See the documentation that came with the card.
If you removed a sound card:
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup), select Audio Controller, and then change the
setting to On.
Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the computer.
If you removed a network connector card:
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup), select Network Controller, and then change the
setting to On.
Connect the network cable to the network connector on the back panel of the computer.
NOTE: Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.
Installing the Optional Speaker
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
NOTE: To loosen the two captive screws on each side of the heat-sink assembly, you need a long Phillips screwdriver.
Loosen the two captive screws on each side of the heat-sink assembly.
CAUTION: Despite having a plastic shield, the heat-sink assembly may be very hot during normal operation. Ensure that it has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.
Rotate the heat-sink assembly upward, and remove it from the computer.
1
heat-sink assembly
2
captive screw housing (2)
NOTICE: If you are installing a processor upgrade kit from Dell, discard the original heat-sink assembly. If you are not installing a processor upgrade kit from Dell, reuse the original heat-sink assembly when you install your new processor.
Open the processor cover by sliding the release lever from under the center cover latch on the socket.
Then, pull the lever back to release the processor.
1
processor cover
2
processor
3
socket
4
release lever
NOTICE: When replacing the processor, do not touch any of the pins inside the socket or allow any objects to fall on the pins in the socket.
Gently remove the processor from the socket.
Leave the release lever extended in the release position so that the socket is ready for the new processor.
Replacing the Processor
NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer.
NOTICE: When replacing the processor, do not touch any of the pins inside the socket or allow any objects to fall on the pins in the socket.
Unpack the new processor, being careful not to touch the underside of the processor.
NOTICE: You must position the processor correctly in the socket to avoid permanent damage to the processor and the computer when you turn on the computer.
If the release lever on the socket is not fully extended, move it to that position.
Orient the front and rear alignment notches on the processor with the front and rear alignment
notches on the socket.
Align the pin-1 corners of the processor and socket.
1
processor cover
2
tab
3
processor
4
processor socket
5
center cover latch
6
release lever
7
front alignment notch
8
socket and processor pin-1 indicator
9
rear alignment notch
NOTICE: To avoid damage, ensure that the processor aligns properly with the socket, and do not use excessive force when you install the processor.
Set the processor lightly in the socket and ensure that the processor is positioned correctly.
When the processor is fully seated in the socket, close the processor cover.
Ensure that the tab on the processor cover is positioned underneath the center cover latch on the socket.
Pivot the socket release lever back toward the socket and snap it into place to secure the processor.
NOTICE: If you are not installing a processor upgrade kit from Dell, reuse the original heat-sink assembly when you replace the processor.
If you installed a processor replacement kit from Dell, return the original heat-sink assembly and processor to Dell in the same package in which your replacement kit was sent.
Install the heat-sink assembly:
Place the heat-sink assembly back onto the heat-sink assembly bracket.
Rotate the heat-sink assembly down towards the computer base and tighten the two capture
screws.
NOTICE: Ensure that the heat-sink assembly is correctly seated and secure.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug the cable into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Battery
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
CAUTION: A new battery can explode if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
About the Battery
A coin-cell battery maintains computer configuration, date, and time information. The battery can last several years.
The battery may need replacing if you have repeatedly reset the time and date information after turning on the computer or if one of the following messages appear:
Time-of-day not set - please run SETUP program
or
Invalid configuration information - please run SETUP program
or
Strike the F1 key to continue, F2 to run the setup utility
To determine whether you need to replace the battery, re-enter the time and date in system setup and exit the program to save the information. Turn off your computer and disconnect it from the electrical outlet for a few hours; then reconnect the computer, turn it on, and enter system setup (see Entering System Setup). If the date and time are not correct in system setup, replace the battery.
You can operate your computer without a battery; however, without a battery, the configuration information is erased if the computer is turned off or unplugged from the electrical outlet. In this case, you must enter system setup (see Entering System Setup) and reset the configuration options.
Removing the Battery
If you have not already done so, make a copy of your configuration information found in system setup
(see System Setup).
NOTICE: If you pry the battery out of its socket with a blunt object, be careful not to touch the system board with the object. Ensure that the object is inserted between the battery and the socket before you attempt to pry out the battery. Otherwise, you may damage the system board by prying off the socket or by breaking circuit traces on the system board.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the battery connector, you must firmly support the connector while removing the battery.
Support the battery connector by pressing down firmly on the positive side of the connector.
While supporting the battery connector, press the battery tab away from the positive side of the
connector and pry the battery it up out of the securing tabs at the negative side of the connector.
1
system battery
2
battery socket tab
3
battery socket
4
positive side of battery connector
Properly dispose of the old battery. For more information, see your Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup) and restore the settings that you recorded when you
removed the existing battery.
I/O Panel
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
I/O-Panel Components
1
USB port
2
diagnostic, hard-drive access, and network integrity lights
NOTE: To loosen the two captive screws on each side of the heat-sink assembly, you need a long Phillips screwdriver.
Loosen the two captive screws on each side of the heat-sink assembly.
CAUTION: Despite having a plastic shield, the heat-sink assembly may be very hot during normal operation. Ensure that the assembly has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.
Rotate the heat-sink assembly upward, and remove it from the computer.
1
heat-sink assembly
2
captive screw housing (2)
Place the heat-sink assembly on its side in a safe place.
Disconnect the system fan cable from the system board.
1
fan release lever
2
fan
Lift the fan release lever and slide the fan toward the back of the computer to release it from the
bottom and remove it from the computer.
Disconnect the control-panel cable from the I/O panel connector by pulling with the cable loop.
If an optional sound card is installed, disconnect the cable from the edge of the I/O panel.
If an optional IEEE 1394 cable is installed in the front port, remove the cable from the front of the
computer by following the instructions that came with the connector.
If an optional thermal sensor cable is installed (the other end of the cable will be attached to the
system board connector labeled "THRM" as found in System Board Components), disconnect the
cable from the edge of the I/O panel.
1
I/O panel
2
mounting screw
Remove the mounting screw from the I/O panel.
Remove the I/O panel from the computer.
Replacing the I/O Panel
Follow the removal procedure in reverse order, ensuring that the tabs on the top panel, bottom panel, and front panel are secure.
Power Supply
CAUTION: Before performing any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
Disconnect the DC power cables from the system board and the drives.
Note the routing of the DC power cables underneath the tabs in the computer frame as you release the tabs and remove the cables from the system board and drives. You must route these cables properly when you replace them to prevent their being pinched or crimped.
Remove the four screws that attach the power supply to the back of the computer chassis.
1
power supply screws (4)
Slide the power supply toward the front of the computer by approximately one inch.
Lift the power supply out of the computer.
Replacing the Power Supply
Slide the power supply into place.
Replace the four screws that secure the power supply to the back of the computer chassis.
Reconnect the DC power cables.
On the desktop computer, reattach the power cables to the side of the hard drive.
Run the cables underneath the tabs, and press the tabs to close them over the cables.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
System Board
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
NOTICE: The system board and metal tray are connected and are removed as one piece.
Remove any components that restrict access to the system board.
Disconnect all cables from the system board.
Before you remove the existing system board assembly, visually compare the replacement system board
to the existing system board to make sure that you have the correct part.
Remove the system board screws.
1
system board
2
screws
Pull up on the two tabs, slide the system board assembly toward the front of the computer, and then
lift the assembly up and away.
Place the system board assembly that you just removed next to the replacement system board.
1
system board
2
back of computer
Replacing the System Board
Transfer components from the existing system board to the replacement system board:
Remove the memory modules and install them on the replacement board. See Memory for more
information.
CAUTION: The processor package and heat-sink assembly can get hot. To avoid burns, ensure that the package and assembly have had sufficient time to cool before you touch them.
Remove the heat-sink assembly and processor from the existing system board and transfer them to
the replacement system board. See Processor for more information.
Set the jumpers on the replacement system board so that they are identical to the ones on the existing
board (see System Board Components).
NOTE: Some components and connectors on the replacement system board may be in different locations than the corresponding connectors on the existing system board.
Orient the replacement board by aligning the notches on the bottom of the board with the tabs on the
computer.
Slide the system board assembly toward the back of the computer until the assembly clicks into
position.
Replace any components and cables that you removed from the system board.
Reconnect all cables to their connectors at the back of the computer.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
Replacing the Front Panel and Replacing the Computer Cover
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.
Replacing the Front Panel
Align the notches on the front panel with the corresponding holes on the front of the computer.
Pull the front-panel release lever, and slide the panel to the right to engage and secure the front panel.
Replacing the Computer Cover
Ensure that all cables are connected, and fold cables out of the way.
Gently pull the power cables toward you so that they do not get caught underneath the drives.
Ensure that no tools or extra parts are left inside the computer.
Replace the cover:
Align the computer cover with the tabs on the side of the computer that has the hard drive bays.
Pivot the cover down and gently press the cover until it clicks into place.
Ensure that the cover is locked. If not, repeat all of step 3.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
