This chapter provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:
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.
CAUTION: When working inside the computer, be aware that the heat sink assembly, power supply, and other components may be very hot during normal operation. Be sure that components have had sufficient time to cool before you touch them.
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.
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 its side with the computer cover facing up.
Pull back the cover release latch located on the top panel.
1
cover latch release
2
computer cover
3
back of computer
4
bottom hinge tabs
Locate the three hinge tabs on the bottom edge of the computer.
Grip the sides of the computer cover and pivot the cover up, using the bottom hinge tabs as leverage
points.
Release the cover from the hinge tabs and set it aside in a secure location.
Memory
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board.
Your computer supports DDR2 memory. For additional information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see Memory.
NOTICE: Do not install ECC or buffered memory modules. Only unbuffered, non-ECC memory is supported.
Memory Installation Guidelines
DIMM connectors must be populated in numerical order beginning with connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2, then connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4.
If a single DIMM is installed, you must install it in connector DIMM_1.
For best performance, 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 operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. (See the label on the module to determine the module's capacity.) For example, if you install a mixed pair of DDR2 533-MHz and DDR2 667-MHz memory, the modules function at the slowest speed installed.
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)
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 DIMM connectors 1 and 2 or DIMM connectors 3 and 4.
NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.
Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations
Your computer supports a maximum of 4 GB of memory when you use four 1-GB DIMMs. Current 32-bit operating systems, such as Microsoft® Windows® XP, can use a maximum of 4 GB of address space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is less than that installed. 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.
Installing Memory
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions 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.
Press the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
1
memory connector farthest from processor (DIMM_1)
2
securing clips (2)
3
connector
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.
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.
Replace the computer cover.
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.
Right-click the My Computer icon and click Properties.
Click the General tab.
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 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.
Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
Grasp the module and pull up.
Cards
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions 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:
If you are installing or replacing a card, follow the procedures in the next section. If you are removing but not replacing a PCI card, see Removing a PCI Card.
If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. The
door is hinged and will remain in the open position.
If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening. Then continue
with step 6.
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
alignment bar
2
fully seated card
3
not fully seated card
4
alignment guide
5
bracket within slot
6
bracket caught outside of slot
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
alignment guide
2
alignment bar
3
release tab
4
card retention door
Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the cards.
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.
On a new card, connect any cables that are part of the installation. See the documentation for the card
for information about the card's cable connections. On a replacement card, connect any cables that
you removed in step 5.
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.
If you installed a sound card:
Enter system setup (see System Setup), go to Onboard Devices and select IntegratedAudio, 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 an add-in network adapter and want to use only the add-in network adapter, then
disable the integrated network adapter:
Enter system setup (see System Setup), go to Onboard Devices and select Integrated NIC, and
then change the setting to Off.
Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter's connectors. Do not connect the
network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel.
NOTE: You can use the integrated NIC and add-in NIC adapter at the same time if you have a requirement. In this case, set the Integrated NIC setting to On and install the driver for the add-in adapter.
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. The
door is hinged and will remain in the open position.
1
release tab
2
card retention door
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.
1
alignment guide
2
alignment bar
3
release tab
4
card retention door
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 device and then plug it into the computer.
When replacing the PCI Express Video Card, be aware that the heat sink on the on the card may be very hot during normal operation. Be sure that the heat sink has had sufficient time to cool before you touch the card.
NOTE: If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
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.
Gently push the release tab on the card retention door from the inside to pivot the door open. The
door is hinged and will remain in the open position (see Installing a PCI Card for an illustration of the
card retention door).
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the x16 card in place from the top:
Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the mechanism from
the two tab slots holding it in place.
Set the retention mechanism aside.
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.
Disconnect any cables connected to the card. 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
securing tab
3
PCI Express x1 card
4
PCI Express x1 card slot
5
PCI Express x16 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 PCI Express x16 card connector, position the card so the securing
slot is aligned with the securing tab, and gently pull the securing tab.
Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.
1
alignment bar
2
fully seated card
3
not fully seated card
4
alignment guide
5
bracket within slot
6
bracket caught outside of slot
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.
If previously removed, snap the card retention mechanism into place, securing the x16 PCI card.
1
card retention door
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 device and then plug it into the computer.
Reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
If you installed a sound card:
Enter system setup (see System Setup), go to Onboard Devices and select Integrated Audio, 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 an add-in network adapter, and want to only use it, then disable the integrated network
adapter:
Enter system setup (see System Setup), go to Onboard Devices and select Integrated NIC, and
then change the setting to Off.
Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter's connectors. Do not connect the
network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel.
NOTE: You can use the integrated NIC and add-in NIC adapter at the same time. In this case, set the Integrated NIC setting to On and install the driver for the add-in adapter.
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. The
door is hinged and will remain in the open position (see Installing a PCI Card for an illustration of the
card retention door).
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the x16 card in place from the top:
Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the mechanism from
the two tab slots holding it in place.
Set the retention mechanism aside.
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, securing the cards.
NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network device and then plug it into the computer.
Rotate the drive panel toward the computer until it snaps into place on the front panel.
Drives
The computer supports a combination of these devices:
Up to two serial ATA hard drives
One optional floppy drive or an optional Media Card Reader
Up to two CD or DVD drives
1
CD/DVD drive
2
FlexBay for optional floppy drive or optional Media Card Reader
3
hard drive
Connect serial ATA hard drives to connectors labeled "SATA0" or "SATA1" on the system board.
Connect serial ATA CD or DVD drives to connectors labeled "SATA2" or "SATA3" on the system board. See System Board Components.
Connecting Drive Cables
When you install a drive, you connect a DC power cable and a data cable to the back of the drive.
1
power cable
2
power input connector
Drive Interface Connectors
The drive cable connectors are keyed for correct insertion. Properly align the cable connector key on the cable and the drive before connecting.
1
interface cable
2
interface connector
Connecting and Disconnecting Drive Cables
When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA data cable, disconnect the cable using the 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 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.
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.
Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
Disconnect the power and data cables from the drive.
NOTICE: Use the pull-tab to remove the data cable from your hard drive.
1
serial ATA data cable
2
power cable
Press in on the blue tabs on each side of the drive and slide the drive up and out of the computer.
1
tabs (2)
2
hard drive
If removing this drive changes the drive configuration, then be sure to reflect these changes in system
setup. When you restart your computer, enter system setup (see System Setup), then go to the
"Drives" section of the System Setup and under Drive 0 through 3, set the Drive to the correct
configuration.
Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
NOTE: 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
Align the hard drive bracket with the guides in the hard drive bay.
1
hard-drive bracket
2
hard drive
3
guide in hard-drive bay
Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or the drive is securely installed. Take care not to
let the drive free-fall into the drive bay.
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 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.
Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
Align the hard drive bracket with the guides in the hard drive bay.
Gently slide the new drive (second hard drive) into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely
installed. Take care not to let the drive free-fall into the drive bay.
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 then turn them on.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
Floppy 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 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 chassis.
Disconnect the power and data cable from the back of the floppy drive. Disconnect the other end of
the cable from the floppy connector on the system board (see System Board Components).
Remove the data cable from the clip on the processor shroud. Remove the cable from the computer.
Slide the drive latch release toward the bottom of the computer, and then slide the floppy drive out
through the front of the computer.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
Installing a Floppy Drive
NOTE: In the event that the replacement or new floppy drive does not have shoulder screws, use the shoulder screws located within the drive panel insert. Otherwise, reuse the screws attached to the drive that you are replacing.
Remove the four shoulder screws from the drive panel insert.
Install two of the shoulder screws on each side of the drive.
1
floppy drive
2
shoulder screws (4)
Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.
Attach the power and data cables to the floppy drive.
Connect the other end of the data cable to the connector labeled "FLOPPY1" on the system board (see
System Board Components) and route the cable through the clip on the processor shroud.
1
power cable
2
data cable
3
processor shroud clip
Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to avoid blocking airflow between the fan
and cooling vents. Insert the floppy data cable into the clip on top of the processor shroud.
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 their electrical outlets, and then 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 System Setup) and select the appropriate Diskette Drive option.
Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).
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 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 chassis.
Disconnect the USB cable from the back of the Media Card Reader. Disconnect the other end of the
cable from the USB connector on the system board (see System Board Components). Remove the
cable from any clips and lift out of the computer.
1
drive release latch
2
sliding plate
3
Media Card Reader
Slide the drive latch release toward the bottom of the computer and, without releasing the drive latch
release, slide the Media Card Reader out through the front of the computer.
If you are not replacing the Media Card Reader, reinstall the drive panel insert, as needed (see
Installing the Drive-Panel Insert).
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
Installing a Media Card Reader
NOTE: In the event that the replacement or new Media Card Reader does not have shoulder screws, use the screws located within the drive panel insert. Otherwise, reuse the screws attached to the card reader that you are replacing.
Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
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.
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.
Disconnect the power cable and the CD/DVD drive data cable from the back of the drive and the
system board.
.
1
power cable
2
data cable
Slide the drive latch release toward the bottom of the computer and, without releasing the drive latch
release, slide the CD/DVD drive out through the front of the computer.
NOTE: In the event that the replacement or new CD/DVD drive does not have shoulder screws, check for the screws located within the drive panel insert or, if applicable, reuse screws attached to the drive that you are replacing.
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 a new CD/DVD drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the drive panel insert
(see Removing the Drive-Panel Insert), then remove three shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-
panel insert and attach the screws to the new drive.
Slide the drive into the drive bay until the drive clicks into position.
Connect the power cable to the drive.
Connect the CD/DVD data cable to the drive and to the connector on the system board (see System
Board Components).
.
1
power cable
2
data cable
Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to avoid blocking airflow between the fan
and cooling vents.
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 their electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
When you restart your computer, enter system setup (see System Setup), and select the appropriate
Drive option.
See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.
Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).
Battery
Replacing the Battery
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions 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:
Record all the screens in system setup (see System Setup) so that you can restore the correct settings in
step 9.
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 then turn them on.
Enter system setup (see System Setup) and restore the settings you recorded in step 1. Then go to the
Maintenance section and clear the low battery and other errors associated with the battery
replacement in the Event Log.
Properly dispose of the old battery.
See the Product Information Guide for battery disposal information.
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.
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 them from being pinched or crimped.
Remove the hard drive cable, CD/DVD drive data cable, front panel ribbon cable, and any other cables
from the securing clip on the side of the power supply.
Remove the four screws that attach the power supply to the back of the computer chassis.
Press the release button located on the floor of the computer chassis.
1
release button
2
power supply
3
screws (4)
4
AC power connector
Slide the power supply toward the front of the computer by approximately 1 inch.
Lift the power supply up and out of the computer.
Lower the replacement power supply into the computer.
Slide the power supply toward the back of the computer until the release button snaps into the locking
position.
Replace the screws that secure the power supply to the back of the computer chassis.
NOTICE: Route the DC power cables under the chassis tabs. The cables must be properly routed to prevent the cables from being damaged.
Reconnect the DC power cables to the system board and drives.
Secure the hard drive cable, CD/DVD drive data cable, and the front panel ribbon cable to the
securing clip on the side of the power supply.
NOTE: Double-check all cable connections to make sure they are secure.
Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on.
Verify that the computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).
Processor
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.
Carefully disconnect and move any cables that are routed over the heat sink assembly.
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the x16 card in place from the top:
Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the mechanism from
the two tab slots holding it in place.
Set the retention mechanism aside.
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 prevent damage to the processor, press on the heat sink assembly toward the front of the computer to help break the thermal grease bond between the heat sink and the processor.
Rotate the heat sink assembly upward, and remove it 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 heat sink is required for the new processor, reuse the original heat sink assembly when you replace the processor.
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. Bending the pins can permanently damage the processor.
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 see 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 unpack the processor. Bending the pins can permanently damage the processor.
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.
If the release lever on the socket is not fully extended, move it to that position.
Align the pin-1 corners of the processor and socket.
1
processor pin-1 indicator
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.
Set the processor lightly in the socket and ensure that the processor is positioned correctly.
While lightly pressing down on the processor, rotate the release lever back toward the system board
until it snaps into place, securing the processor.
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.
Apply the new thermal grease to the top of the processor.
NOTICE: Ensure that the floppy drive and audio cables are not routed so that they are pinched when the heat sink assembly is installed.
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 ensure that the two captive
screws are properly aligned with the holes in the system board.
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)
If previously removed, snap the card retention mechanism into place, securing the x16 PCI card.
Connect any cables disconnected before removing the heat sink assembly.
Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on.
Verify that the computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).
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.
CAUTION: The heat sink assembly, power supply, and other components may be very hot during normal operation. Be sure that they have had sufficient time to cool before you touch them.
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.
Removing the I/O Panel
NOTE: Note the routing of all cables as you remove them so that you can re-route them correctly when installing the new I/O panel.
NOTICE: When sliding the I/O panel out of the computer, be extremely careful. Carelessness my result in damage to the cable connectors and the cable routing clips.
Remove the screw that secures the I/O panel. Press on the release button and slide the card away from
the front of the computer.
Carefully remove the panel from the computer.
Disconnect all of the cables from the I/O panel.
1
I/O panel release button
2
securing screw
3
I/O panel
4
I/O cable connector
Installing the I/O Panel
Reconnect the cables to the I/O panel.
NOTICE: Take care not to damage the cable connectors and the cable routing clips when sliding the I/O panel into the computer.
Slide the I/O panel into place using the guides on the I/O panel bracket to help position the I/O panel
in place, and use the notch on the I/O panel bracket to help seat the panel. Rotate the panel until the
release button is secure.
Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on.
Verify that the computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics (see Dell Diagnostics).
Processor 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: The heat sink assembly, power supply, and other components may be very hot during normal operation. Be sure that they have had sufficient time to cool before you touch them.
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.
Carefully disconnect and move any cables that are routed over the heat sink assembly.
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the x16 card in place:
Pivot the mechanism upward and gently squeeze in on the sides to release the mechanism from
the two tab slots holding it in place.
Set the retention mechanism aside.
1
release tab
2
card retention mechanism
3
card retention door
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 prevent damage to the processor, press on the heat sink assembly toward the front of the computer to help break the thermal grease bond between the heat sink and the processor.
Rotate the heat sink assembly towards the rear of the computer, and then remove it from the
computer.
Lay the heat sink assembly down on its top, with the thermal grease facing upward.
Ensure that all cables have been removed from the routing clips on the top of the processor fan
assembly.
1
fan release lever
2
fan release lever tab
3
processor fan
The fan has two release levers. One on the side facing the hard disk and a smaller one on the opposite
side next to the bottom cover. Release both fan levers, then slide the fan toward the back of the
computer to release the four fan tabs from the four slots in the bottom cover.
Remove the fan from the computer.
Installing the Processor Fan
When reinstalling the fan, ensure that you do not pinch the wires that run between the system board and the fan.
NOTICE: Ensure that the four fan tabs are fully inserted into the four keyhole slots in the bottom cover so that the fan can slide back fully into position. Ensure that the fan release lever tabs are seated into their respective slots.
Place the fan into the computer, aligning the fan assembly to the notches in the bottom of the chassis.
Then slide the fan assembly toward the front of the computer. Ensure that the release levers are secure.
Replace the cables that were removed from the routing clips on top of the processor fan assembly.
Place the heat sink assembly back onto the heat-sink assembly bracket.
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.
Tighten the two captive screws.
NOTICE: Ensure that the heat sink assembly is correctly seated and secure.
Replace any cables that were routed over the heat sink assembly.
If your computer includes a card retention mechanism, replace it.
Connect your computer and devices to an electrical outlet, and turn them on.
System Board
Removing the System Board
CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.
CAUTION: The heat sink assembly, power supply, and other components may be very hot during normal operation. Be sure that they have had sufficient time to cool before you touch them.
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.
Remove any add-in cards on the system board (see Cards).
Remove the processor and heat sink assembly (see Processor).
Remove the memory modules (see Removing Memory) and document which memory module is
removed from each memory socket so that the memory modules can be installed in the same location
after the board is replaced.
Disconnect all cables from the system board. Note the routing of all cables as you remove them so that
you can re-route them correctly after installing the new system board.
Remove the six screws from the system board.
Remove the two green screws securing the heat sink assembly bracket. Note the orientation of the heat
sink assembly bracket as you remove it so that you can properly position the bracket after replacing the
system board.
Slide the system board assembly toward the front of the computer, and then lift the board up and away.
System Board Screws
1
system board
2
heat sink assembly bracket
3
screws (8)
Place the system board assembly that you just removed next to the replacement system board to ensure it is identical.
Installing the System Board
Gently align the board into the chassis and slide it toward the back of the computer.
Using the six screws, secure the system board to the chassis.
Install the heat sink assembly bracket and secure using the two green screws.
NOTE: The heat sink bracket assembly must be properly oriented to allow proper installation of the heat sink assembly.
Replace the cables that you removed from the system board.
Replace the memory modules into the memory sockets at the same locations from which you removed
them (see Installing Memory).
Place the heat sink assembly back onto the heat-sink assembly bracket.
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.
Tighten the two captive screws.
NOTICE: Ensure that the heat sink assembly is correctly seated and secure.
