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Removing and Installing Parts

Dell™ Dimension™ 9150 Service Manual

Memory

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. For information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Specifications."

NOTICE: Before you install new memory modules, download the most recent BIOS for your computer from the Dell™ Support website at support.dell.com.

Memory Overview

• Memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology. If the memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance. See the label in the corner of the module to determine the module's capacity.
  
  

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

The recommended memory configurations are:

• A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2
  
  

or

• A pair of matched memory modules installed in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 and another matched pair installed in connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4
  
  

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

• If you install mixed pairs of DDR2 400-MHz (PC2-3200), DDR2 533-MHz (PC2-4300) and DDR2 667-MHz (PC2-5300) memory, the modules function at the slowest speed installed.
  
  
• Be sure to install a single memory module in the DIMM_1 connector, the connector closest to the processor, before you install modules in the other connectors.
  
  

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

NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly. You should install your original memory modules in pairs either in connectors DIMM_1 and DIMM_2 or connectors DIMM_3 and DIMM_4.

Addressing Memory With 4-GB Configurations

Your computer supports a maximum of 4 GB of memory when you use four 1-GB DIMMs. Current operating systems, such as Microsoft® Windows® XP, can only use a maximum of 4 GB of address space; however, the amount of memory available to the operating system is less than 4 GB. Certain components within the computer require address space in the 4-GB range. Any address space reserved for these components cannot be used by computer memory.

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.

1. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
2. Remove the computer cover.
   
   
3. Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the computer.
   
   
4. Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
   
   

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

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.

6. 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.

7. Replace 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.

8. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
   
   
9. When the message appears stating that memory size has changed, press <F1> to continue.
   
   
10. Log on to your computer.
    
    
11. Right-click the My Computer icon on your Windows desktop and click Properties.
    
    
12. Click the General tab.
    
    
13. 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.

1. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
2. Remove the computer cover.
   
   
3. Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
   
   
4. 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.

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.

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

• Three 33-MHz PCI card slots
  
  
• One PCI Express x1 card slot
  
  
• One PCI Express x16 card slot
  
  
• One PCI Express x4 card slot
  
  

Removing and Installing PCI and PCI Express Cards

NOTE: Dell offers an optional customer kit for Audigy II and IEEE 1394 PCI add-in-cards that includes a front-mounted IEEE 1394 connector.

1. If you are replacing a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
   
   
2. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
3. Remove the computer cover.
   
   

   
   
   

4. Push the two release tabs 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.
   
   

5. If your computer includes a card retention mechanism:
   
   
   1. Grasp the end of the card retention mechanism and, while pressing the release tab down with your thumb, rotate the mechanism towards the base of the computer.
      
      
   2. Detach the mechanism from its retaining tabs and set it aside in a secure location.
      
      
6. If a "piano" bracket (for full-length PCI-E cards) is present on your computer, rotate it upward by pressing the tabs on the side of the bracket toward each other.
   
   

7. If you are replacing or removing a card:
   
   
   1. If necessary, disconnect any cables connected to the card.
      
      
   2. Pull the securing tab (if present), grasp the card by its top corners, and ease it out of its connector.
      
      
   3. If you are not replacing the card, 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.

8. If you are installing a new card, remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening
   
   
9. 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.

10. Position the card so that it is aligned with the slot and (if present) the securing tab is aligned with the securing slot.
    
    

NOTICE: Ensure that you release the securing tab to seat the card. If the card is not installed correctly, you may damage the system board.

11. Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is fully seated in the slot.
    
    

12. 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.
      
      

13. Close the card retention door by snapping it into place to secure the card(s).
    
    

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

14. If you installed a card, connect any cables that should be attached to the card.
    
    

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

15. If a card retention mechanism is present on your computer, reseat it in its tabs, and rotate it down until it snaps into place.
    
    
16. If a "piano" bracket (for full-length PCI-E cards) is present on your computer, rotate it down into place.
    
    

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

17. Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
    
    
18. If you removed or installed a sound card or a network adapter, see "Network Adapter and Sound Card Settings."
    
    
19. Add or remove drivers:
    
    
    1. If you removed a card, remove the current driver for the card from the operating system.
       
       
    2. If you installed a card, install any drivers required for the card as described in the card documentation.
       
       

Network Adapter and Sound Card Settings

If you installed a sound card:

1. Enter system setup, select Integrated Audio Controller, and then change the setting to Off.
   
   
2. Connect external audio devices to the sound card connectors. Do not connect external audio devices to the microphone, speaker/headphone, or line-in connectors on the back panel.
   
   

If you removed a sound card:

1. Enter system setup, select Integrated Audio Controller, and then change the setting to On.
   
   
2. Connect external audio devices to the audio connectors on the back panel of the computer.
   
   

If you installed an add-in network adapter and want to disable the integrated network adapter:

1. Enter system setup, select Integrated NIC Controller, and then change the setting to Off.
   
   
2. Connect the network cable to the add-in network adapter connectors. Do not connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel.
   
   

If you removed an add-in network connector:

1. Enter system setup, select Integrated NIC Controller, and then change the setting to On.
   
   
2. Connect the network cable to the integrated connector on the back panel of the computer.
   
   

Drive Panels

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.

Removing the Drive Panel

1. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   

2. Grasping the lever on the sliding plate, pull the sliding plate to the right and hold in place.
   
   

NOTE: The sliding plate secures and releases the drive panel and helps to secure the drives.

3. Push from the inside and pivot the drive panel to the left to release the panel from its side hinges.
   
   
4. Set the drive panel aside in a secure location.
   
   

Removing the Drive-Panel Insert

NOTICE: Drive-panel inserts may contain screws on the inside. You can attach the screws to new drives that do not have any screws.

NOTICE: To avoid breaking the drive-panel insert tab, do not pull the insert more than approximately 1 cm (½ inch) away from the drive panel before sliding the tab out of the slot.

1. On the inside of the drive panel, pinch the two drive-panel insert release tabs together and pull the insert out and to the right just enough to release it from the drive panel.
   
   
2. Set the drive-panel insert aside in a secure location.
   
   

Replacing the Drive-Panel Insert

1. Place the drive-panel insert tab into the drive-panel slot.
   
   
2. Pinch the drive-panel insert release tabs and press the drive panel insert into place.
   
   

3. Ensure that the drive-panel insert is correctly seated in the drive panel.
   
   

Replacing the Drive Panel

1. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   

2. Align the drive panel tabs with the side-door hinges.
   
   
3. Rotate the drive panel toward the computer until the sliding plate lever clicks into place and the drive panel snaps into place on the front panel.
   
   

Drives

Your computer supports:

• Two hard drives (Serial ATA)
  
  
• One floppy drive
  
  
• One flexbay drive
  
  
• Two CD or DVD drives
  
  

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. Some CD/DVD drives may also have an audio connector; one end of the audio cable will attach to the drive connector and the other will attach to the system board.

Connect hard drives to data connectors labeled "SATA" and connect CD/DVD drives to connectors labeled "IDE".

When you connect two IDE devices to a single IDE interface cable and configure them for the cable select setting, the device attached to the last connector on the interface cable is primary or the boot device (drive 0), and the device attached to the middle connector on the interface cable is the secondary device (drive 1). See the drive documentation in your upgrade kit for information on configuring devices for the cable select setting.

Drive Interface Connectors

Most interface connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector. Keyed connectors ensure that the pin-1 wire in the cable (indicated by the colored stripe along one edge of the IDE cable—serial ATA cables do not use a colored stripe) goes to the pin-1 end of the connector. The pin-1 end of a connector on a board or a card is usually indicated by a silk-screened "1" printed directly on the board or card.

NOTICE: When you connect an IDE interface cable, do not place the colored stripe away from pin 1 of the connector. Reversing the cable prevents the drive from operating and could damage the controller, the drive, or both.

When connecting an IDE cable, ensure that you align the colored stripe with the pin 1 connector. When disconnecting an IDE cable, grasp the colored pull tab and pull until the connector detaches.

When connecting and disconnecting a serial ATA cable, hold the cable by the connector at each end. Like IDE connectors, the serial ATA interface connectors are keyed for correct insertion; that is, a notch or a missing pin on one connector matches a tab or a filled-in hole on the other connector.

Hard Drive

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

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

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.

1. If you are replacing a hard drive that contains data you want to keep, back up your files before you begin this procedure.
   
   
2. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
3. Remove the computer cover.
   
   

Removing a Hard Drive

1. Disconnect the power and SATA data cables from the drive.
   
   

2. Press the tabs on each side of the drive towards each other and slide the drive up and out.
   
   

Installing a Hard Drive

1. Unpack the replacement hard drive, and prepare it for installation.
   
   
2. Check the documentation for the drive to verify that the drive is configured for your computer.
   
   
3. If your replacement hard drive does not have the hard drive bracket attached, remove the bracket from the old hard drive by unsnapping it from the drive.
   
   
4. Snap the hard drive bracket onto the replacement hard drive.
   
   
5. Install the hard drive into the computer by sliding the drive into place until you feel it click into place.
   
   

6. Connect the power and SATA data cables to the hard drive.
   
   

7. Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and firmly seated.
   
   
8. Replace the computer cover.
   
   

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

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

See the documentation that came with the hard drive for instructions about installing any software required for the operation of the hard drive.

10. If the drive you just installed is the primary drive, insert bootable media into drive A.
    
    
11. Turn on the computer.
    
    
12. Enter system setup, and update the appropriate Primary Drive option (0 or 1).
    
    
13. Exit system setup, and reboot the computer.
    
    
14. Partition and logically format your drive before you proceed to the next step.
    
    

See the documentation for your operating system for instructions.

15. Test the hard drive by running the Dell Diagnostics.
    
    
16. If the drive you just installed is the primary drive, install your operating system on the hard drive.
    
    

Adding a Second Hard Drive

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

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

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.

1. Check the documentation for the drive to verify that it is configured for your computer.
   
   
2. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
3. Press in on the tabs on each side of the hard drive bracket in the empty drive bay and slide the bracket up and out.
   
   
4. Snap the hard drive bracket onto the new hard drive.
   
   

NOTICE: Do not install any drive into the lower hard-drive bay until you have removed the hard drive bracket from the inside of the hard drive bay.

5. Slide the new hard drive into empty bay until you feel a click.
   
   

NOTE: If your replacement hard drive does not have the hard drive bracket attached, remove the bracket from the old hard drive by unsnapping it from the drive. Snap the bracket onto the new hard drive.

6. Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.
   
   
7. Connect the power and SATA data cables to the drive.
   
   

8. Check all connectors to be certain that they are properly cabled and firmly seated.
   
   
9. Replace 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 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 opening the cover.

NOTE: If you are adding a floppy drive, see "Installing a Floppy Drive."

Removing a Floppy Drive

1. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
2. Remove the computer cover.
   
   
3. Disconnect the power and floppy drive cables from the back of the floppy drive.
   
   
4. Disconnect the other end of the floppy-drive cable from the system board
   
   

5. Pull the sliding plate to the right and hold in place.
   
   
6. Slide the floppy drive out of the floppy drive bay.
   
   

Installing a Floppy Drive

1. If you are installing a new floppy drive, remove the shoulder screws from the inside of the drive-panel insert and attach the screws to the new drive.
   
   

2. Slide the floppy drive into the floppy drive bay until the sliding plate clicks into place and the drive snaps into position.
   
   
3. Attach the power and floppy-drive cables to the floppy drive.
   
   
4. Connect the other end of the floppy-drive cable to the connector labeled "FLOPPY" on the system board. For more information on the system board, see "System Board Components."
   
   
5. Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents.
   
   
6. Replace the computer cover.
   
   

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

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

See the documentation that came with the floppy drive for instructions on installing any software required for the operation of the drive.

8. Enter system setup and select the appropriate Diskette Drive option.
   
   
9. Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics.
   
   

Media Card Reader

Removing a Media Card Reader

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.

1. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
2. Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the computer.
   
   
3. Remove the computer cover.
   
   
4. Remove the drive panel.
   
   

5. Disconnect the USB cable on the back of the Media Card Reader from the front panel USB connector on the system board (see "System Board Components") and remove the cable from the clip on the shroud.
   

   
   
   

6. While pushing on the back of the drive, remove the Media Card Reader by sliding and holding the sliding plate.
   
   
7. Replace the drive panel.
   
   
8. Replace the computer cover.
   
   

Installing a Media Card Reader

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.

1. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   

2. Lay the computer on its side so that the system board is on the bottom of the inside of the computer.
   
   
3. Remove the computer cover.
   
   
4. Remove the drive panel.
   
   
5. Remove the Media Card Reader from its packaging and ensure that all four screws are included.
   
   
6. Gently slide the drive into place until you feel a click or feel the drive securely installed.
   
   

Ensure that the Media Card Reader is installed before the FlexBay cable is connected.

7. Connect the FlexBay USB cable to the back of the Media Card Reader and to the Media Card Reader connector on the system board (see "System Board Components").
   
   

8. Insert the Media Card Reader into the bay and slide the drive in to seat it in the computer.
   
   
9. Route the USB cable through the cable routing clip.
   
   
10. Replace the computer cover.
    
    

CD/DVD Drive

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

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

Removing a CD/DVD Drive

1. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
2. Remove the computer cover.
   
   
3. Disconnect the power cable from the back of the drive and the CD/DVD drive cable from the back of the drive and the system board.
   
   

4. Slide the drive release mechanism to the right to release the shoulder screw and slide the drive out to remove it from the drive bay.
   
   

Installing a CD/DVD Drive

1. If you are installing a new drive, unpack the drive and prepare it for installation.
   
   

Check the documentation that accompanied the drive to verify that the drive is configured for your computer. If you are installing an IDE drive, configure the drive for the cable select setting.

2. If you are installing a new drive, remove the three shoulder screws from the inside of the drive- panel insert and attach the screws to the new drive.
   
   

3. Slide the drive into the drive bay until the drive clicks into position.
   
   
4. Connect the power cable to the drive and the CD/DVD cable to the drive and system board.
   
   

5. If you are installing a new CD/DVD drive rather than replacing a drive, remove the front panel inserts.
   
   
6. Check all cable connections, and fold cables out of the way to provide airflow for the fan and cooling vents.
   
   
7. Replace the computer cover.
   
   

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

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

See the documentation that came with the drive for instructions on installing any software required for drive operation.

9. Enter system setup and select the appropriate Drive option.
   
   
10. Verify that your computer works correctly by running the Dell Diagnostics.
    
    

Power Supply

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

Removing the Power Supply

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 frame 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.

3. Remove any cables from the cable routing clip on the power supply.
   
   
4. Remove the four screws that attach the power supply to the back of the computer frame.
   
   
5. Press the release button located on the floor of the computer frame.
   
   

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

6. Slide the power supply approximately 1 inch closer to the front of the computer.
   
   
7. Lift the power supply out of the computer.
   
   

Replacing the Power Supply

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

1. Slide the power supply into place.
   
   
2. Replace the four screws that secure the power supply to the back of the computer frame.
   
   
3. Reconnect the DC power cables.
   
   
4. Connect the AC power cable to the connector.
   
   
5. Run the cables underneath the clips, and press the clips to close them over the cables.
   
   
6. Replace the computer cover.
   
   

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

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

Processor

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

Removing the Processor

1. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
2. Remove the computer cover.
   
   
3. If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the x16 card in place from the top:
   
   
   1. Pivot the mechanism upward and gently press the release tab downward to release the mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.
      
      

2. Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.
   
   
4. Use a long Phillips screwdriver to loosen the two captive screws on each side of the heat-sink assembly.
   
   

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

5. Rotate the heat-sink assembly toward the rear of the computer, and remove it from the computer.
   
   

1	heat sink and fan shroud assembly
2	captive screw housing (2)

NOTICE: If you are installing a processor upgrade kit from Dell, discard the original heat sink. If you are not installing a processor upgrade kit from Dell, reuse the original heat sink when you install your new processor.

6. Place your finger upon the hook end of the release lever, then push down and out to release it from the tab that secures it
   
   

1	processor cover
2	processor
3	socket
4	release lever

7. Release the release lever and lift the processor cover.
   
   

NOTICE: When the release lever is freed, the processor may shift in place. Before securing the processor cover after it has been opened, ensure that the notches on the processor are aligned with the notches on the socket.

NOTICE: When replacing the processor, do not touch any of the pins inside the socket or allow any objects to fall on the pins in the socket.

8. Gently remove the processor from the socket.
   
   

Leave the release lever extended in the release position so that the socket is ready for the new processor.

Installing the Processor

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

NOTICE: When replacing the processor, do not touch any of the pins inside the socket or allow any objects to fall on the pins in the socket.

1. Unpack the new processor, being careful not to touch the underside of the processor.
   
   

NOTICE: You must position the processor correctly in the socket to avoid permanent damage to the processor and the computer when you turn on the computer.

2. If the release lever on the socket is not fully extended, move it to that position.
   
   
3. Orient the front and rear alignment notches on the processor with the front and rear alignment notches on the socket.
   
   
4. Align the pin-1 corners of the processor and socket.
   
   

1	processor cover	6	release lever
2	securing tab	7	front alignment notch
3	processor	8	socket and processor pin-1 indicator
4	processor socket	9	rear alignment notch
5	center cover latch

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. When the processor is fully seated in the socket, close the processor cover.
   
   

Ensure that the securing tab on the processor cover is positioned underneath the center cover latch on the socket.

7. Pivot the socket release lever back toward the socket and snap it into place beneath the securing tab.
   
   

NOTICE: If you are not installing a processor upgrade kit from Dell, reuse the original heat-sink assembly when you replace the processor.

If you installed a processor replacement kit from Dell, return the original heat-sink assembly and processor to Dell in the same package in which your replacement kit was sent.

8. 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 tighten the two capture screws.
      
      

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

1	heat sink and fan shroud assembly
2	heat-sink assembly bracket
3	captive screw housing (2)

9. Replace the computer cover.
   
   

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

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

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.

I/O-Panel Components

1	USB ports
2	diagnostic, hard-drive activity, and network lights
3	headphones connector
4	microphone connector

Removing the I/O Panel

1. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
2. Remove the computer cover.
   
   
3. If your computer includes a card retention mechanism to secure the x16 card in place from the top:
   
   
   1. Pivot the mechanism upward and gently press the release tab downward to release the mechanism from the two tab slots holding it in place.
      
      

2. Set the retention mechanism aside in a secure location.
   
   
4. Use a long Phillips screwdriver to loosen the two captive screws on each side of the heat-sink assembly.
   
   

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

5. Rotate the heat-sink assembly towards the rear of the computer, and remove it from the computer.
   
   

1	heat sink and fan shroud assembly
2	captive screw housing (2)

6. Place the heat-sink assembly on its side in a safe place.
   
   
7. Disconnect the system fan cable from the system board.
   
   
8. Ensure that all cables have been removed from the routing clips on the top of the system fan assembly.
   
   

1	heat sink and fan shroud assembly
2	captive screw housing (2)
3	drive panel

9. Lift the fan release lever, then slide the fan toward the back of the computer to release it from the bottom cover.
   
   
10. Remove the fan from the computer.
    
    
11. Disconnect the control-panel cable from the I/O panel connector by pulling with the cable loop.
    
    
12. Remove the drive panel.
    
    
13. If an optional sound card is installed, disconnect the cable from the edge of the I/O panel.
    
    
14. If an optional IEEE 1394 cable is installed in the front port, remove the cable from the front of the computer by following the instructions that came with the connector.
    
    
15. Remove the mounting screw from the I/O panel.
    
    

16. Remove the I/O panel from the computer.
    
    

Replacing the I/O Panel

Follow the removal procedure in reverse order, ensuring that the tabs on the top panel, bottom panel, and front panel are secure.

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.

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 you have turned 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 the screens in system setup so that you can restore the correct settings in step 9.
   
   
2. Follow the procedures in "Before You Begin."
   
   
3. Remove the computer cover.
   
   
4. Locate the battery socket.
   
   

NOTICE: If you pry the battery out of its socket with a blunt object, be careful not to touch the system board with the object. Ensure that the object is inserted between the battery and the socket before you attempt to pry out the battery. Otherwise, you may damage the system board by prying off the socket or by breaking circuit traces on the system board.

5. Remove the battery by carefully prying it out of its socket with your fingers or with a blunt, nonconducting object such as a plastic screwdriver.
   
   
6. Insert the new battery into the socket with the side labeled "+" facing up, and snap the battery into place.
   
   

7. Replace 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.

8. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
   
   
9. Enter system setup and restore the settings you recorded in step 1.
   
   

CAUTION: For instructions about how to safely dispose of a battery, see your Product Information Guide.

10. Properly dispose of the old battery.
    
    

System Board

Removing the System Board

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

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.

1. Shut down the computer through the Start menu.
   
   
2. Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
   
   

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network port or device.

3. Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
   
   
4. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board.
   
   
5. Open the computer cover.
   
   
6. Remove any components that restrict access to the system board (CD/DVD drive(s), floppy drive, hard drive, I/O panel).
   
   
7. Remove the heat-sink assembly and processor.
   
   
8. Disconnect all cables from the system board.
   
   

1	system board
2	screws (10)

9. Remove the 10 screws from the system board.
   
   
10. Slide the system board assembly toward the front of the computer, and then lift the board away.
    
    
11. Place the system board assembly that you just removed next to the replacement system board to ensure that it is identical.
    
    

Replacing the System Board

1. Gently align the board into the chassis and slide it toward the back of the computer.
   
   
2. Replace the screws on the system board.
   
   
3. Replace any components and cables that you removed from the system board.
   
   
4. Reconnect all cables to their connectors at the back of the computer.
   
   
5. Replace the computer cover.
   
   

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

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

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