Back to Contents Page

Adding and Replacing Parts

Dell™ Inspiron™ 1420 Owner's Manual

Before You Begin

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 performed the steps in Turning Off Your Computer and Before Working Inside Your Computer.
  
  
• You have read the safety information in your Dell Product Information Guide.
  
  
• A component can be replaced—or if purchased separately—installed 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
  
  
• Small plastic scribe
  
  
• Flash BIOS update (see the Dell Support website at support.dell.com)
  
  

Turning 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.

1. Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
   
   
2. Click Start , click the arrow , and then click Shut Down.
   
   

The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.

3. 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, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off.
   
   

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 electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

1. Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.
   
   
2. Turn off your computer (see Turning Off Your Computer).
   
   

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer, and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

3. Disconnect any telephone or network cables from the computer.
   
   
4. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.
   
   

NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before you service the computer.

NOTE: To avoid damage to the computer, use only the battery designed for this particular Dell computer. Do not use batteries designed for other Dell computers.

5. Turn the computer over.
   
   
6. Slide the battery release latches toward the sides of the computer until they are engaged.
   
   
7. Slide the battery out of the battery bay.
   
   

1

battery

2

battery release latch (2)

8. Turn the computer top-side up, open the display, and press the power button to ground the system board.
   
   
9. Remove any installed cards from the ExpressCard slot (see Removing an ExpressCard or Blank) and the 8-in-1 memory card reader (see Removing a Memory Card or Blank).
   
   

Hard Drive

CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot, do not touch the metal housing of the hard drive.

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

NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see Turning Off Your Computer) before removing the hard drive. Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is on or in Sleep state.

NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile. Exercise care when handling the hard drive.

NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than Dell.

NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell, you need to install an operating system, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive (see Restoring Your Operating System and Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities).

Removing the Hard Drive

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Turn the computer over.
   
   
3. Loosen the two captive screws securing the hard drive cover and then remove the cover.
   
   

1

hard drive cover

2

screws (2)

4. Remove the hard drive assembly by using the pull-tab.
   
   

1

hard drive assembly

2

pull-tab

NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging (see "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide).

Replacing the Hard Drive

1. Remove the new drive from its packaging.
   
   

Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive.

NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may damage the connector.

2. Place the hard drive assembly in the hard drive bay by aligning the tabs on the hard drive assembly with the slots in the bay and pressing the connector end down.
   
   
3. Replace the hard drive door and tighten the captive screws.
   
   
4. Install the operating system for your computer, as needed (see Restoring Your Operating System).
   
   
5. Install the drivers and utilities for your computer, as needed (see Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities).
   
   

Returning a Hard Drive to Dell

Return your old hard drive to Dell in its original, or comparable, foam packaging. Otherwise, the hard drive may be damaged in transit.

1

foam packaging

2

hard drive

Optical Drive

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

Removing the Optical Drive

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Turn the computer over.
   
   
3. Remove the locking screw from the optical drive.
   
   
4. Using a plastic scribe, push the notch to release the optical drive from the bay.
   
   
5. Slide the optical drive out of the bay.
   
   

1

optical drive

2

locking screw

3

notch

Replacing the Optical Drive

1. Slide the optical drive into the bay.
   
   
2. Replace and tighten the locking screw.
   
   

Hinge Cover

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

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before you begin working inside the computer.

Removing the Hinge Cover

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Open the display as far as it will open.
   
   

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the hinge cover, do not lift the cover on both sides simultaneously.

3. Insert a plastic scribe into the indent to lift the hinge cover on the right side.
   
   
4. Ease the hinge cover up, moving from right to left, and remove it.
   
   

1

hinge cover

2

scribe

Replacing the Hinge Cover

1. Align the tabs along the left edge of the hinge cover with the corresponding notches in the computer.
   
   
2. Moving from left to right, press down until the hinge cover snaps into place.
   
   

Keyboard

For more information about the keyboard, see Using the Keyboard and Touch Pad.

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

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before you begin working inside the computer.

Removing the Keyboard

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Remove the hinge cover (see Hinge Cover).
   
   
3. Remove the two screws at the top of the keyboard.
   
   

NOTICE: The key caps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-consuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the keyboard.

4. Lift the keyboard and hold it up and slightly forward to access the keyboard connector.
   
   
5. Rotate the keyboard connector latch towards the front of the computer to disconnect the keyboard cable from the keyboard connector on the system board.
   
   
6. Slide the keyboard cable out of the keyboard connector.
   
   

1	screws (2)	2	keyboard
3	tabs (5)	4	keyboard cable
5	keyboard connector latch	6	palmrest

Replacing the Keyboard

1. Slide the keyboard cable into the keyboard connector.
   
   
2. Rotate the keyboard connector latch to secure the cable.
   
   
3. Place the tabs along the front edge of the keyboard into the palmrest.
   
   
4. Press on the right edge near the top to snap the keyboard into place.
   
   
5. Replace the two screws to secure the keyboard.
   
   

Memory

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

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See Specifications for information on the memory supported by your computer. Install only memory modules that are intended for your computer.

NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.

Your computer has two user-accessible SODIMM sockets, DIMM A and DIMM B accessed from the bottom of the computer.

NOTICE: If your computer has only one memory module, install the memory module in the connector labeled "DIMMA."

NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the connector labeled "DIMMA" before you install a module in the connector labeled "DIMMB."

Removing the Memory Module

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Turn the computer over.
   
   
3. Loosen the captive screws from the memory module cover.
   
   
4. Lift the memory module cover and set it aside.
   
   

1

captive screws (3)

2

memory module cover

NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory module securing clips.

5. Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module connector until the module pops up.
   
   
6. Remove the memory module from the connector.
   
   

1

memory module

2

securing clips (2)

Replacing the Memory Module

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

1. Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.
   
   
2. Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 30-degree angle, and rotate the module down until it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the memory module and reinstall it.
   
   

NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot. No error message indicates this failure.

1

tab

2

notch

3

memory module

3. Replace the memory module cover and tighten the three captive screws.
   
   
4. Insert the battery into the battery bay or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet.
   
   
5. Turn on the computer.
   
   

As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system configuration information.

To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, click Start  ® Help and Support® Dell System Information.

Modem

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

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Turn the computer over, loosen the three captive screws on the modem cover, and then remove the cover.
   
   
3. Remove the screw securing the modem to the system board.
   
   
4. Remove the modem by using the pull-tab, ensuring that you do not pull on the modem cable with excessive force.
   
   
5. Remove the modem cable from the connector on the modem.
   
   

1	screw	2	pull-tab
3	modem cable	4	modem

6. Install the replacement modem by pressing the modem into the connector on the system board.
   
   

NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors and realign the card.

7. Tighten the screw to secure the modem in place.
   
   
8. Connect the modem cable.
   
   
9. Tighten the three screws and replace the modem cover.
   
   

Subscriber Identity Module

Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM) identify users uniquely through an International Mobile Subscriber Identity.

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

NOTE: Only GSM (HSDPA) type cards need a SIM. EVDO cards do not use a SIM.

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. In the battery bay, locate the SIM compartment at the base.
   
   
3. Slide in the SIM into the compartment with the cut-off corner of the card aligning with the cut-off corner in the SIM compartment.
   
   

1

battery bay

2

SIM

Wireless Mini Cards

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

NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before you begin working inside the computer.

If you ordered a wireless Mini Card with your computer, the card is already installed. Your computer supports three types of wireless Mini Cards:

• Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
  
  
• Mobile Broadband or Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)
  
  
• Internal card with Bluetooth® wireless technology
  
  

Removing a WLAN Card

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Remove the hinge cover (see Removing the Hinge Cover).
   
   
3. Remove the keyboard (see Removing the Keyboard).
   
   
4. Loosen the screw that secures the WLAN Card to the system board.
   
   
5. Disconnect the antenna cables from the WLAN card.
   
   

1

antenna cable connectors

2

WLAN card

3

screw

6. Lift the WLAN card out of its system board connector.
   
   

Replacing a WLAN Card

NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the system board, and realign the card.

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the WLAN card, never place cables under the card.

1. Insert the WLAN card connector into the system board connector labeled "WLAN" at a 45-degree angle by aligning the notch on the WLAN card to the slot on the system board connector.
   
   
2. Press down the other end of the WLAN card and tighten the screw securing the card to the system board.
   
   
3. Connect the appropriate antenna cables to the WLAN card you are installing:
   
   

If the WLAN card has two triangles on the label (white and black), connect the white antenna cable to the connector labeled "main" (white triangle), and connect the black antenna cable to the connector labeled "aux" (black triangle).

If the WLAN card has three triangles on the label (white, black, and gray), connect the white antenna cable to the white triangle, connect the black antenna cable to the black triangle, and connect the gray antenna cable to the gray triangle.

4. Secure unused antenna cables in the protective mylar sleeve.
   
   
5. Replace the keyboard (see Replacing the Keyboard).
   
   
6. Replace the hinge cover (see Replacing the Hinge Cover).
   
   

Internal Card with Bluetooth® Wireless Technology

CAUTION: Before performing the following procedures, follow the safety instructions in your Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching a connector on the back panel of the computer.

If you ordered an internal card with Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer, it is already installed.

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Remove the memory module cover (see Memory).
   
   

NOTICE: Be careful when removing the card to avoid damaging the card, card cable, or surrounding components.

3. Loosen the captive screw to remove the card carrier.
   
   

1	metal clip	2	internal card with Bluetooth wireless technology
3	captive screw

4. Gently slide the card out from underneath the metal clips.
   
   
5. Disconnect the card from the card cable and keep it in a secure location.
   
   

1

card

2

card cable

Removing a Mobile Broadband or WWAN Card

NOTE: WWAN is also available on an ExpressCard (see ExpressCards).

NOTE: WWAN card and FCM share the same slot. You can install only one card at a time.

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Remove the hinge cover (see Removing the Hinge Cover).
   
   
3. Remove the keyboard (see Removing the Keyboard).
   
   
4. Loosen the screw that secures the WWAN Card to the system board.
   
   
5. Disconnect the antenna cables from the WWAN card.
   
   

1

WWAN card

2

antenna cables (2)

6. Pull the WWAN card out of its system board connector.
   
   

Replacing a WWAN Card

NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the system board, and realign the card.

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the WWAN card, never place cables under the card.

1. Insert the WWAN card connector into the system board connector labeled "WWAN" at a 45-degree angle by aligning the notch on the WWAN card to the slot on the system board connector.
   
   
2. Press down the other end of the WWAN card and tighten the screw securing the card to the system board.
   
   
3. Connect the appropriate antenna cables to the WWAN card you are installing.
   
   

Connect the white striped cable to the connector on the card marked with a white triangle. Connect the black striped cable to the connector on the card marked with a black triangle.

4. Secure unused antenna cables in the protective mylar sleeve.
   
   
5. Replace the keyboard (see Replacing the Keyboard).
   
   
6. Replace the hinge cover (see Replacing the Hinge Cover).
   
   

Flash Cache Module

The Flash Cache Module (FCM), is an internal flash drive that helps improve the performance of your computer.

NOTE: This card is only compatible with the Windows Vista™ operating system.

NOTE: If you ordered a FCM with your computer, the card is already installed.

NOTE: WWAN card and FCM share the same slot. You can install only one card at a time.

Removing the FCM

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Remove the hinge cover (see Hinge Cover).
   
   
3. Remove the keyboard (see Keyboard).
   
   
4. Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
   
   

NOTE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.

5. Remove the screw securing the FCM to the system board.
   
   
6. Lift the card out of its connector.
   
   

1

antenna cables

2

screw

Replacing the FCM

NOTICE: When installing this card, ensure the two antenna cables are not under the card. The antenna cables are designed to lay alongside the FCM and into the protective sleeve. Installing the card on top of these antenna cables may cause damage to your computer.

NOTICE: Install the FCM in the WWAN slot. Do not install an FCM in the WLAN card slot. Doing so may cause damage to your computer.

1. Connect the FCM to the connector on the system board.
   
   
2. Tighten the screw securing the FCM to the system board.
   
   
3. Replace the keyboard. (see Replacing the Keyboard)
   
   
4. Replace the hinge cover. (see Replacing the Hinge Cover)
   
   

Coin-Cell Battery

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

NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

NOTICE: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before you begin working inside the computer.

Removing the Coin-Cell Battery

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin.
   
   
2. Turn the computer over.
   
   
3. Loosen the captive screws on the coin-cell battery cover (see Bottom View), and remove the cover.
   
   
4. Remove the modem (see Modem).
   
   
5. Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the system board.
   
   

1

coin-cell battery

2

battery cable connector

6. Lift the battery out.
   
   

Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery

1. Connect the coin-cell battery cable to the system board.
   
   
2. Place the coin-cell battery on the system board in the location marked .
   
   
3. Replace the modem (see Modem).
   
   
4. Replace the cover and tighten the screws.
   
   

Back to Contents Page