Service Manual

When Working Inside Your Computer
Before you remove the computer covers, perform the following steps in the sequence indicated.
CAUTION: Some Dell systems can be serviced only by trained service technicians because of
high voltages and energy hazards. Do not attempt to service the computer system yourself,
except as explained in this guide and elsewhere in Dell documentation. Always follow
installation and service instructions closely.
NOTICE: To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait 5 seconds after turning off the
system before removing a component from the system board or disconnecting a peripheral device
from the computer.
1. Turn off your computer and any devices.
2. Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the chassis, such as the metal around the
card-slot openings at the back of the computer, before touching anything inside your computer.
While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis to dissipate any
static electricity that might harm internal components.
3. Disconnect your computer and devices from their power sources. Also, disconnect any telephone or
telecommunication lines from the computer.
Doing so reduces the potential for personal injury or shock.
In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate:
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 disconnecting the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly
aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, make sure that both
connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
Handle components and cards with care. Don’t 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 microprocessor chip
by its edges, not by its pins.
CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding 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.
Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge
Static electricity can harm delicate components inside your computer. To prevent static damage, discharge
static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’s electronic components, such as the
microprocessor. You can do so by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to remove any