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Removing and Installing Parts

Dell™ Dimension™ C521 Service Manual

Memory

If your computer only has one memory module installed on the system board, you can increase your computer memory by installing an additional memory module.

Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For additional information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see Specifications.

DDR2 Memory Overview

Your computer has a minimum memory configuration of one DDR2 memory module. This memory module must be installed in DIMM1. If two or more DDR2 memory modules are installed, they should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology. If the DDR2 memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. See the label on the module to determine the module's capacity.

NOTE: Always install DDR2 memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.

NOTICE: Do not install ECC or buffered memory modules. Only unbuffered, non-ECC memory is supported.

The recommended memory configurations are:

• A memory module installed in connector DIMM1
  
  
• A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2
  
  
• A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM1 and DIMM2 and another matched pair installed in connectors DIMM3 and DIMM4
  
  
• If you install mixed pairs of DDR2 533-MHz (PC2-4300) and DDR2 667-MHz (PC2-5400) memory, the modules function at the slower installed speed.
  
  

Be sure to populate the memory modules in order starting with DIMM1, the connector closest to the edge of the system board, before you install modules in the other connectors.

1

Channel A: matched pair of memory modules in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 (white securing clips)

2

Channel 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.

Installing Memory

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

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 chassis.

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
   
   

1

memory connector closer to edge of board

2

securing clips (2)

3

connector

3. Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.
   
   

1	cutouts (2)	2	memory module	3	notch
4	crossbar

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector while you apply equal force to each end of the module.

4. Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
   
   

If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the module.

5. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
   
   

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

6. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
   
   
7. When a message appears stating that memory size has changed, press <F1> to continue.
   
   
8. Log on to your computer.
   
   
9. Right-click the My Computer icon, then click Properties.
   
   
10. Click the General tab.
    
    
11. To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed.
    
    

Removing Memory

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

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 chassis.

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
   
   
3. 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.

4. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
   
   

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

5. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
   
   

Cards

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

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 chassis.

Your Dell™ computer provides the following slots for PCI and PCI Express cards:

• One low-profile PCI card slot
  
  
• One low-profile PCI Express x1 and x16 card slot
  
  

1	PCI Express x1 card	2	PCI Express x16 card	3	PCI
4	PCI Express x1 card slot	5	PCI Express x16 card slot	6	PCI card slot

If you are installing or replacing an expansion card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing and not replacing an expansion card, see Removing an Expansion Card.

If you are replacing a card with a different type of card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.

Installing an Expansion Card

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Gently push the release tab on the inside of the card retention door to pivot the door open. Because the door is captive, it will remain in the open position.
   
   
3. If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening, then continue with step 5.
   
   

1

release tab

2

card retention door

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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	alignment bar
4	alignment guide	5	fully seated card	6	not fully seated card

7. 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	release tab	2	card retention door	3	filler bracket
4	alignment guide	5	alignment bar

8. Close the card retention door by snapping it into place.
   
   

NOTICE: Do not route card cables over the cards. Cables routed over the cards can prevent the computer cover from closing properly or cause damage to the equipment.

9. Connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
   
   

See the documentation for the card for information about the card's cable connections.

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

10. Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
    
    
11. If you installed a sound card:
    
    
    1. Enter system setup, select Integrated Audio from the Onboard Devices group, and change the setting to Off. See System Setup Options.
       
       
    2. Connect external audio devices to the sound card's connectors. Do not connect external audio devices to the line-in connector on the back panel of the computer. See Back Panel I/O Connectors.
       
       
12. If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network adapter:
    
    
    1. Enter system setup, select Integrated NIC from the Onboard Devices group, and change the setting to Off. See System Setup Options.
       
       
    2. Connect the network cable to the network adapter card's connectors. Do not connect the network cable to the integrated network connector on the back panel of the computer.
       
       
13. Install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.
    
    

Removing an Expansion Card

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. 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.
   
   
3. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card.
   
   
4. Remove the card:
   
   

If you are removing a PCI or PCI Express x1 card, grasp the card by its top corners and ease it out of its connector. Then go to step 6.

If you are removing a PCI Express x16 card, go to step 5.

5. While pressing the lever, pull the card up and out of the card connector.
   
   

1	PCI Express x16 card	2	lever	3	securing slot
4	securing tab	5	PCI Express x16 card connector

6. 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.

7. 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.
     
     
8. Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the cards.
   
   

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

9. Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
   
   
10. Remove the card's driver from the operating system.
    
    
11. If you removed a sound card:
    
    
    1. Enter system setup, select Integrated Audio from the Onboard Devices group, and change the setting to On. See System Setup Options.
       
       
    2. Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the computer. See Back Panel I/O Connectors.
       
       
12. If you removed an add-in network connector:
    
    
    1. Enter system setup, select Integrated NIC from the Onboard Devices group, and then change the setting to On. See System Setup Options.
       
       
    2. Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the computer.
       
       

Drives

Your computer supports a combination of these devices:

• One optional floppy drive or Media Card Reader
  
  
• One CD or DVD drive
  
  
• One serial ATA (SATA) hard drive
  
  

1

DVD drive

2

optional floppy drive or media card reader

3

hard drive

General Installation Guidelines

Connect the SATA hard drive to the connector labeled "SATA0." Connect the SATA CD or DVD drives to the connector labeled "SATA1" on the system board.

Connecting Drive Cables

When you install a drive, you connect two cables—a DC power cable and a data cable—to the back of the drive and to the system board.

Drive Interface Connectors

1

interface cable

2

interface connector

Power Cable Connector

1

power cable

2

power input connector

Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables

When removing a SATA data cable, grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector detaches. When connecting a SATA data cable, hold the cable by the black connector at each end.

CD/DVD Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

Removing a CD/DVD Drive

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   

NOTICE: Do not pull the drive out of the computer by the drive cables. Doing so may cause damage to the cables and the cable connectors.

2. Pull up on the drive release latch and slide the drive towards the back of the computer. Then, lift up to remove the drive from the computer.
   
   

1

drive release latch

2

CD/DVD drive

3. Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the drive.
   
   
4. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
   
   

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

5. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
   
   

Installing a CD/DVD Drive

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.
   
   
3. If you are installing a new drive:
   
   
   1. Press the two snaps on the top of the drive-panel insert and rotate the insert toward the front of the computer. Remove it from the computer.
      
      
   2. Remove the three shoulder screws from the drive-panel insert.
      
      
4. If you are replacing an existing drive:
   
   
   1. Remove the existing drive.
      
      
   2. Remove the three shoulder screws from the existing drive.
      
      
5. Insert the three shoulder screws into the sides of the new drive and tighten them.
   
   
6. Connect the power and data cables to the drive.
   
   
7. Align the shoulder screws with the screw guides, and slide the drive into the bay until it clicks into place.
   
   

8. Check all cable connections and fold cables out of the way to avoid blocking airflow between the fan and cooling vents.
   
   
9. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
   
   

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

10. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
    
    

Floppy Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

Removing a Floppy Drive

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   

NOTE: It is not necessary to disconnect the cables connected to the CD/DVD drive in the following step, as long as the cables do not obstruct your working area once the drive is set aside.

2. Remove the CD/DVD drive (see Removing a CD/DVD Drive) and carefully set it aside.
   
   

NOTICE: Do not pull the drive out of the computer by the drive cables. Doing so may cause damage to the cables and cable connectors.

3. Pull up on the drive release latch and slide the floppy drive towards the back of the computer. Then, lift up to remove the drive from the computer.
   
   

1

drive release latch

2

floppy drive

4. Disconnect the power and data cables from the back of the floppy drive.
   
   
5. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
   
   

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

6. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
   
   

Installing a Floppy Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

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 chassis.

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Remove the floppy drive and bracket from its packaging.
   
   
3. If you are installing a new drive:
   
   
   1. Remove the drive-panel insert that blocks the FlexBay.
      
      
   2. Remove the four shoulder screws from the drive-panel insert.
      
      
4. If you are replacing an existing drive:
   
   
   1. Remove the existing drive.
      
      
   2. Remove the four shoulder screws from the existing drive.
      
      
5. Insert the four shoulder screws into the sides of the new floppy drive and tighten them.
   
   

6. Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive.
   
   
7. Locate the correct guidance-slot for the drive (slot 2) and align the shoulder screws with the screw guides.
   
   

1

floppy drive

2

slot verification number

8. Slide the drive into the bay until it clicks into place.
   
   
9. Connect the data cable to the connector labeled "FLOPPY" on the system board.
   
   
10. Replace the CD/DVD drive.
    
    
11. Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents.
    
    
12. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
    
    

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

13. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
    
    

Media Card Reader

Removing a Media Card Reader

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

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 chassis.

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   

NOTE: It is not necessary to disconnect the cables connecting the CD/DVD drive in the following step, as long as the cables do not obstruct your working area once the drive is set aside.

2. Remove the CD/DVD drive (see Removing a CD/DVD Drive) and carefully set it aside.
   
   

NOTICE: Do not pull the drive out of the computer by the drive cables. Doing so may cause damage to the cables and the cable connectors.

3. Disconnect the Media Card Reader USB cable from the USB connector (USB1) on the system board and route the cable through the clip on the shroud.
   
   
4. Pull up on the drive release latch and slide the Media Card Reader towards the back of the computer. Then, lift up to remove it from the computer.
   
   

1

Media Card Reader

2

drive release latch

5. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
   
   

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

6. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
   
   

Installing a Media Card Reader

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

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 chassis.

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Remove the Media Card Reader and bracket from its packaging.
   
   
3. If you are installing a new Media Card Reader:
   
   
   1. Remove the drive-panel insert that blocks the FlexBay.
      
      
   2. Remove the four shoulder screws from the drive-panel insert.
      
      
4. If you are replacing an existing Media Card Reader:
   
   
   1. Remove the existing Media Card Reader.
      
      
   2. Remove the four shoulder screws from the existing Media Card Reader.
      
      
5. Insert four shoulder screws into the sides of the Media Card Reader and tighten them.
   
   

6. Locate the correct guidance-slot for the Media Card Reader (slot 2) and align the shoulder screws with the screw guides.
   
   

1

Media Card Reader

2

slot verification number

7. Slide the Media Card Reader into the bay until it clicks into place.
   
   
8. Connect the power and data cables to the back of the Media Card Reader.
   
   
9. Connect the data cable to the USB connector on the system board.
   
   
10. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
    
    

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

11. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
    
    

Hard Drive

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located 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 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.

NOTICE: If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data you want to keep, back up your files before you begin this procedure.

Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.

Removing a Hard Drive

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   

NOTE: In the following steps it is not necessary to disconnect the cables connecting the CD/DVD or floppy drive or the Media Card Reader, as long as it does not obstruct your working area once it is set aside.

2. Remove the CD/DVD drive (if installed) from the bay and carefully set it aside. See Removing a CD/DVD Drive.
   
   
3. Remove the floppy drive or Media Card Reader (if installed) from the bay and carefully set it aside. See Removing a Media Card Reader or Removing a Floppy Drive.
   
   
4. Press in on the two plastic securing clips on each side of the drive and slide the drive towards the back of the computer.
   
   

NOTICE: Do not pull the drive out of the computer by the drive cables. Doing so may cause damage to the cables and the cable connectors.

5. Lift the drive out of the computer and disconnect the power and data cables from the drive.
   
   

1

securing clips (2)

2

hard drive

Installing a Hard Drive

1. Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
   
   

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.

2. Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation.
   
   
3. If your replacement hard drive does not have the plastic hard-drive bracket attached, remove the bracket from the existing drive by unsnapping it from the drive.
   
   

1

hard drive

2

release tabs (2)

3

plastic hard-drive bracket

4. Attach the bracket to the new drive by aligning the two securing tabs with the mounting holes in the hard drive and then rotating the drive down snapping it onto the bracket.
   
   

1	securing tabs (2)	2	hard drive	3	release tabs (2)
4	plastic hard-drive bracket

5. Connect the power and data cables to the drive.
   
   
6. Locate the correct guidance-slot for the drive (slot 1) and align the release tabs with the alignment guides.
   
   

1

hard drive

2

slot verification number

NOTICE: To prevent damaging the hard drive, gently slide the drive into the drive bay. Excessive force could damage the hard drive.

7. Gently slide the drive into the bay until it clicks into place.
   
   
8. Replace any drives or readers that you removed.
   
   
9. Check all connectors to ensure that they are properly cabled and firmly seated.
   
   
10. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
    
    

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

11. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
    
    
12. If the drive that you installed is the primary drive, insert bootable media into your boot drive.
    
    
13. Enter system setup (see Entering System Setup) and update the appropriate Primary Drive option (0 or 2).
    
    
14. Exit system setup, and reboot the computer.
    
    
15. Partition and logically format your drive before you proceed to the next step.
    
    

For instructions, see the documentation that came with your operating system.

16. Test the hard drive by running the Dell Diagnostics. See Dell Diagnostics.
    
    
17. Install your operating system on the hard drive. For instructions, see the documentation that came with your operating system
    
    

Battery

Replacing the Battery

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

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 chassis.

A coin-cell battery maintains computer configuration, date, and time information. The battery can last several years. If you have to repeatedly reset time and date information after turning on the computer, replace the battery.

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.

To replace the battery:

1. Record all of the settings in system setup (see System Setup Options) so that you can restore the correct settings in step 8.
   
   
2. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
3. Locate the battery socket.
   
   
4. Remove the battery by carefully pressing the battery release lever away from the battery.
   
   

When the battery release lever is properly pressed, the battery should spring out of the socket.

1

battery

2

battery release lever

3

battery socket

5. Insert the new battery into the socket with the side labeled "+" facing up, and snap the battery into place.
   
   
6. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
   
   

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device, and then plug it into the computer.

7. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
   
   
8. Enter system setup (see System Setup) and restore the settings you recorded in step 1.
   
   

The system will log a low battery event in the event log. You can clear the log event from System Setup.

9. Properly dispose of the old battery. See the Product Information Guide for battery disposal information.
   
   

Processor

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

Removing the Processor

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Loosen the captive screw 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. Be sure that it has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the processor or processor socket, slide the heat sink assembly forward and backwards to break the thermal grease seal between the processor and heat sink. If you do not break the seal first, the processor may stick to the heat sink assembly while rotating the assembly upward.

3. Rotate the heat sink assembly upward, and remove the assembly from the computer.
   
   

Lay the heat sink assembly down on its top, with the thermal grease facing upward.

1

heat sink assembly

2

captive screws (2)

NOTICE: Unless a new heatsink is required for the new processor, reuse the original heat sink assembly when you replace the processor.

4. Pull the release lever straight up until the processor is released.
   
   

1

processor

2

release lever

3

socket

NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you remove the processor from the socket. Bending the pins can permanently damage the processor.

5. 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, and go to Installing the Processor.

NOTICE: After removing the processor, be careful not to get any thermal grease on the processor pins. Thermal grease on the pins can permanently damage the processor.

Installing the Processor

NOTICE: Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the computer.

NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you replace the processor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the processor.

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   

NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins when you unpack the processor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the processor.

2. Unpack the new processor, being careful not to bend any of the processor pins.
   
   

NOTE: 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.

3. If the release lever on the socket is not fully extended, move it to that position.
   
   
4. Align the pin-1 corners of the processor and socket.
   
   

1	pin-1 corner	2	processor	3	release lever
4	socket

NOTICE: To avoid damage, ensure that the processor aligns properly with the socket, and do not use excessive force when you install the processor.

5. Set the processor lightly in the socket and ensure that the processor is positioned correctly.
   
   
6. While lightly pressing down on the processor, rotate the release lever back toward the system board until it snaps into place, securing the processor.
   
   
7. Clean the thermal grease from the bottom of the heat sink.
   
   

NOTICE: Ensure that you apply new thermal grease. New thermal grease is critical for ensuring adequate thermal bonding, which is a requirement for optimal processor operation.

8. Apply the new thermal grease to the top of the processor.
   
   
9. Install the heat sink assembly:
   
   
   1. Place the heat sink assembly back onto the heat-sink assembly bracket.
      
      
   2. Rotate the heat sink assembly down towards the computer base and ensure that the two captive screws are properly aligned with the holes in the system board.
      
      
   3. Tighten the two captive screws.
      
      

NOTICE: Ensure that the heat sink assembly is correctly seated and secure.

1

heat sink assembly

2

heat-sink assembly bracket

3

captive screws (2)

10. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
    
    

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network port or device and then plug it into the computer.

11. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
    
    

Power Supply

Replacing the Power Supply

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.

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 chassis.

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. 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 chassis as you remove them from the system board and drives. You must route these cables properly when you replace them to prevent their being pinched or crimped.

3. Remove the two screws that attach the power supply to the back of the computer chassis.
   
   
4. Press the release button located on the floor of the computer chassis.
   
   

1	release button	2	power supply	3	screws (2)
4	AC power connector

5. Slide the power supply toward the front of the computer and lift the power supply up and out of the computer.
   
   
6. Lower the replacement power supply into the computer.
   
   
7. Slide the replacement power supply toward the back of the computer until it snaps into place.
   
   
8. Replace the screws that secure the power supply to the back of the computer chassis.
   
   
9. Reconnect the DC power cables.
   
   
10. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
    
    
11. Connect the AC power cable to the AC power connector.
    
    

Front I/O Panel

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in your Product Information Guide.

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

Removing the Front I/O Panel

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Remove the computer cover. See Removing the Computer Cover.
   
   
3. Loosen the captive screw on each side of the heat sink assembly. See Removing the Processor.
   
   

CAUTION: Despite having a plastic shield, the heat sink assembly may be very hot during normal operation. Be sure that it has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.

NOTICE: To avoid damaging the processor or processor socket, slide the heat sink assembly forward and backwards to break the thermal grease seal between the processor and heat sink. If you do not break the seal first, the processor may stick to the heat sink assembly while rotating the assembly upward.

4. Slide the heat sink assembly forward and backwards to break the thermal grease seal.
   
   
5. Rotate the heat sink assembly upward.
   
   
6. Disconnect the cable attached to the front I/O panel.
   
   
7. Remove the screw that secures the front I/O panel to the chassis.
   
   
8. Rotate the I/O panel toward the back of the computer and remove and the I/O panel from the computer.
   
   

1	securing tab	2	screw	3	I/O panel bracket
4	I/O panel	5	front panel openings

Installing the Front I/O Panel

1. Align the I/O panel connectors and lights with the openings in the front panel.
   
   
2. Rotate the I/O panel toward the front panel so that the I/O panel bracket aligns with the securing tab.
   
   
3. Install the screw that secures the I/O panel to the chassis.
   
   
4. Reconnect the cable to the I/O panel.
   
   
5. Rotate the heat sink assembly down towards the computer base and ensure that the two captive screws are properly aligned with the holes in the system board.
   
   
6. Tighten the two captive screws to secure the heat sink assembly to the system board.
   
   
7. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
   
   
8. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
   
   

Fan Assembly

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

Removing the Fan Assembly

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Remove the computer cover. See Removing the Computer Cover.
   
   
3. Remove the front I/O panel. See Removing the Front I/O Panel.
   
   

CAUTION: The heat-sink assembly can get very hot during normal operation. Be sure that the assembly has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.

4. Disconnect the fan power cable from the FAN_CPU1 connector on the system board. See System Board Components.
   
   

1	fan tabs (2)	2	fan release lever	3	fan cable connector
4	fan assembly

5. While pressing the fan release lever, rotate the fan assembly toward the back of the computer and up to release the two fan tabs from the vent holes in the chassis.
   
   
6. Remove the fan assembly from the computer.
   
   

Installing the Fan Assembly

When reinstalling the fan, ensure that you do not pinch any wires that run near the fan.

NOTICE: Ensure that the two fan tabs are fully inserted into the keyhole slots in the chassis so that the fan can slide back fully into position. Ensure that the fan release lever is seated into its slot in the chassis.

1. Lower the fan assembly into the chassis and align the two fan tabs with the vent holes in the chassis.
   
   
2. Rotate the fan assembly toward the front of the computer until the fan release lever snaps into place.
   
   
3. Connect the fan assembly cable to the FAN_CPU1 connector on the system board. See System Board Components.
   
   
4. Install the front I/O panel. See Installing the Front I/O Panel.
   
   
5. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
   
   
6. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
   
   

System Board

Removing the System Board

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   

NOTICE: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate any static electricity that could harm internal components.

2. Remove the computer cover. See Removing the Computer Cover.
   
   
3. Remove any components that restrict access to the system board (CD/DVD drive(s), floppy drive, hard drive, power supply).
   
   
4. Remove any expansion cards that are installed. See Removing an Expansion Card.
   
   
5. Remove the memory. See Removing Memory.
   
   

Make a note of where each memory module(s) is installed so that you can reinstall the memory module(s) in the same connector.

6. Remove the processor and heat sink assembly. See Removing the Processor.
   
   
7. Remove the fan assemble. See Removing the Fan Assembly.
   
   
8. Disconnect all cables from the system board.
   
   
9. Remove the eight screws from the system board.
   
   

1

system board

2

screws (8)

10. Slide the system board assembly toward the front of the computer, and then lift the board up and away.
    
    

Place the system board assembly that you just removed next to the replacement system board to ensure it is identical.

Replacing the System Board

1. Gently align the system board into the chassis and slide it toward the back of the computer.
   
   
2. Using the eight screws, secure the system board to the chassis.
   
   
3. Replace the fan assembly. See Installing the Fan Assembly.
   
   
4. Replace the processor. See Installing the Processor.
   
   
5. Replace the memory modules. See Installing Memory.
   
   

Ensure that you install the memory modules in the same connectors as noted in step 5 of Removing the System Board.

6. Replace any removed expansion cards. See Installing an Expansion Card.
   
   
7. Replace any other components and cables that you removed from the system board.
   
   
8. Replace the computer cover. See Replacing the Computer Cover.
   
   
9. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
   
   
10. Verify the computer is operational by running the Dell Diagnostics. See Dell Diagnostics.
    
    

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