Table of Contents
- OptiPlex 3090 Micro Service Manual
- Contents
- Working inside your computer
- Removing and installing components
- Drivers and downloads
- BIOS setup
- Troubleshooting
- Getting help
DELL 3090 User Manual
Displayed below is the user manual for 3090 by DELL which is a product in the PCs/Workstations category. This manual has pages.
Related Manuals
OptiPlex 3090 Micro
Service Manual
Regulatory Model: D14U
Regulatory Type: D14U001
October 2021
Rev. A00
Notes, cautions, and warnings
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your product.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid
the problem.
WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
© 2021 Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. All rights reserved. Dell, EMC, and other trademarks are trademarks of Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. Other
trademarks may be trademarks of their respective owners.
Chapter 1: Working inside your computer...................................................................................... 6
Safety instructions.............................................................................................................................................................. 6
Before working inside your computer.......................................................................................................................6
Safety precautions.........................................................................................................................................................7
Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection................................................................................................................7
ESD field service kit ..................................................................................................................................................... 8
After working inside your computer..........................................................................................................................9
Chapter 2: Removing and installing components.......................................................................... 10
Recommended tools..........................................................................................................................................................10
Screw list............................................................................................................................................................................. 10
Major components of your system................................................................................................................................ 12
Side cover............................................................................................................................................................................ 13
Removing the side cover............................................................................................................................................13
Installing the side cover.............................................................................................................................................. 15
Front bezel...........................................................................................................................................................................16
Removing the front bezel...........................................................................................................................................16
Installing the front bezel............................................................................................................................................. 17
Hard-drive assembly..........................................................................................................................................................18
Removing the hard-drive assembly......................................................................................................................... 18
Removing the hard-drive bracket............................................................................................................................ 19
Installing the hard-drive bracket..............................................................................................................................20
Installing the 2.5 in. hard-drive assembly............................................................................................................... 21
Solid-state drive................................................................................................................................................................ 22
Removing the M.2 2230 PCIe solid-state drive................................................................................................... 22
Installing the M.2 2230 PCIe solid-state drive..................................................................................................... 23
Removing the M.2 2280 PCIe solid-state drive................................................................................................... 24
Installing the M.2 2280 PCIe solid-state drive..................................................................................................... 25
Fan assembly...................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Removing the fan assembly...................................................................................................................................... 26
Installing the fan assembly........................................................................................................................................ 28
WLAN card..........................................................................................................................................................................30
Removing the WLAN card.........................................................................................................................................30
Installing the WLAN card............................................................................................................................................31
Heat sink..............................................................................................................................................................................33
Removing the heat sink..............................................................................................................................................33
Installing the heat sink................................................................................................................................................34
Coin-cell battery................................................................................................................................................................35
Removing the coin-cell battery................................................................................................................................35
Installing the coin-cell battery..................................................................................................................................35
Memory modules............................................................................................................................................................... 36
Removing the memory modules...............................................................................................................................36
Installing the memory modules................................................................................................................................. 37
Speaker................................................................................................................................................................................ 38
Contents
Contents 3
Removing the speaker................................................................................................................................................38
Installing the speaker..................................................................................................................................................39
Optional I/O modules (Type C/ HDMI/VGA/DP/Serial)........................................................................................ 40
Removing optional I/O modules (Type C/ HDMI/VGA/DP/Serial)................................................................40
Installing optional I/O modules (Type C/ HDMI/VGA/DP/Serial)...................................................................41
Processor............................................................................................................................................................................ 45
Removing the processor............................................................................................................................................45
Installing the processor..............................................................................................................................................46
System board......................................................................................................................................................................47
Removing the system board..................................................................................................................................... 47
Installing the system board....................................................................................................................................... 49
Chapter 3: Drivers and downloads............................................................................................... 52
Chapter 4: BIOS setup.................................................................................................................53
BIOS overview................................................................................................................................................................... 53
Entering BIOS setup program........................................................................................................................................ 53
Navigation keys..................................................................................................................................................................53
One time boot menu.........................................................................................................................................................54
System setup options.......................................................................................................................................................54
General options............................................................................................................................................................ 54
System information.....................................................................................................................................................55
Video screen options.................................................................................................................................................. 55
Security..........................................................................................................................................................................56
Secure boot options....................................................................................................................................................57
Intel Software Guard Extensions options..............................................................................................................58
Performance................................................................................................................................................................. 58
Power management....................................................................................................................................................59
Post behavior............................................................................................................................................................... 59
Virtualization support................................................................................................................................................. 60
Wireless options...........................................................................................................................................................60
Maintenance..................................................................................................................................................................61
System logs................................................................................................................................................................... 61
Advanced configuration..............................................................................................................................................61
SupportAssist System Resolution........................................................................................................................... 62
Updating the BIOS............................................................................................................................................................ 62
Updating the BIOS in Windows................................................................................................................................62
Updating the BIOS in Linux and Ubuntu................................................................................................................ 62
Updating the BIOS using the USB drive in Windows..........................................................................................62
Updating the BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu.....................................................................................63
System and setup password...........................................................................................................................................64
Assigning a system setup password....................................................................................................................... 64
Deleting or changing an existing system setup password.................................................................................64
Clearing BIOS (System Setup) and System passwords.......................................................................................... 65
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting.........................................................................................................66
Dell SupportAssist Pre-boot System Performance Check diagnostics................................................................66
Running the SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance Check................................................................66
Diagnostic LED behavior................................................................................................................................................. 66
4Contents
Recovering the operating system................................................................................................................................. 68
Backup media and recovery options.............................................................................................................................68
WiFi power cycle............................................................................................................................................................... 68
Chapter 6: Getting help...............................................................................................................69
Contacting Dell.................................................................................................................................................................. 69
Contents 5
Working inside your computer
Safety instructions
Use the following safety guidelines to protect your computer from potential damage and to ensure your personal safety. Unless
otherwise noted, each procedure included in this document assumes that you have read the safety information that shipped
with your computer.
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that is shipped with your
computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/
regulatory_compliance.
WARNING: Disconnect your computer from all power sources before opening the computer cover or panels.
After you finish working inside the computer, replace all covers, panels, and screws before connecting your
computer to an electrical outlet.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the computer, ensure that the work surface is flat, dry, and clean.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the components and cards, handle them by their edges, and avoid touching the
pins and the contacts.
CAUTION: You should only perform troubleshooting and repairs as authorized or directed by the Dell technical
assistance team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. See the
safety instructions that is shipped with the product or at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
CAUTION: 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 static electricity which could harm internal components.
CAUTION: When you disconnect a cable, pull it by its connector or its pull tab, not the cable itself. Some cables
have connectors with locking tabs or thumbscrews that you must disengage before disconnecting the cable.
When disconnecting cables, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending the connector pins. When connecting
cables, ensure that the ports and the connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
CAUTION: Press and eject any installed card from the media-card reader.
CAUTION: Exercise caution when handling Lithium-ion batteries in laptops. Swollen batteries should not be used
and should be replaced and disposed properly.
NOTE: The color of your computer and certain components may appear differently than shown in this document.
Before working inside your computer
About this task
NOTE: The images in this document may differ from your computer depending on the configuration you ordered.
Steps
1. Save and close all open files and exit all open applications.
2. Shut down your computer. Click Start > Power > Shut down.
1
6 Working inside your computer
NOTE: If you are using a different operating system, see the documentation of your operating system for shut-down
instructions.
3. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.
4. Disconnect all attached network devices and peripherals, such as keyboard, mouse, and monitor from your computer.
CAUTION: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug the
cable from the network device.
5. Remove any media card and optical disc from your computer, if applicable.
Safety precautions
The safety precautions chapter details the primary steps to be taken before performing any disassembly instructions.
Observe the following safety precautions before you perform any installation or break/fix procedures involving disassembly or
reassembly:
●Turn off the system and all attached peripherals.
●Disconnect the system and all attached peripherals from AC power.
●Disconnect all network cables, telephone, and telecommunications lines from the system.
●Use an ESD field service kit when working inside any desktop to avoid electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage.
●After removing any system component, carefully place the removed component on an anti-static mat.
●Wear shoes with non-conductive rubber soles to reduce the chance of getting electrocuted.
Standby power
Dell products with standby power must be unplugged before you open the case. Systems that incorporate standby power are
essentially powered while turned off. The internal power enables the system to be remotely turned on (wake on LAN) and
suspended into a sleep mode and has other advanced power management features.
Unplugging, pressing and holding the power button for 20 seconds should discharge residual power in the system board.
Bonding
Bonding is a method for connecting two or more grounding conductors to the same electrical potential. This is done through
the use of a field service electrostatic discharge (ESD) kit. When connecting a bonding wire, ensure that it is connected to bare
metal and never to a painted or non-metal surface. The wrist strap should be secure and in full contact with your skin, and
ensure that you remove all jewelry such as watches, bracelets, or rings prior to bonding yourself and the equipment.
Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection
ESD is a major concern when you handle electronic components, especially sensitive components such as expansion cards,
processors, memory DIMMs, and system boards. Very slight charges can damage circuits in ways that may not be obvious, such
as intermittent problems or a shortened product life span. As the industry pushes for lower power requirements and increased
density, ESD protection is an increasing concern.
Due to the increased density of semiconductors used in recent Dell products, the sensitivity to static damage is now higher than
in previous Dell products. For this reason, some previously approved methods of handling parts are no longer applicable.
Two recognized types of ESD damage are catastrophic and intermittent failures.
●Catastrophic – Catastrophic failures represent approximately 20 percent of ESD-related failures. The damage causes
an immediate and complete loss of device functionality. An example of catastrophic failure is a memory DIMM that has
received a static shock and immediately generates a "No POST/No Video" symptom with a beep code emitted for missing or
nonfunctional memory.
●Intermittent – Intermittent failures represent approximately 80 percent of ESD-related failures. The high rate of
intermittent failures means that most of the time when damage occurs, it is not immediately recognizable. The DIMM
receives a static shock, but the tracing is merely weakened and does not immediately produce outward symptoms related to
the damage. The weakened trace may take weeks or months to melt, and in the meantime may cause degradation of memory
integrity, intermittent memory errors, etc.
Working inside your computer 7
The more difficult type of damage to recognize and troubleshoot is the intermittent (also called latent or "walking wounded")
failure.
Perform the following steps to prevent ESD damage:
●Use a wired ESD wrist strap that is properly grounded. The use of wireless anti-static straps is no longer allowed; they do not
provide adequate protection. Touching the chassis before handling parts does not ensure adequate ESD protection on parts
with increased sensitivity to ESD damage.
●Handle all static-sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use anti-static floor pads and workbench pads.
●When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component from the anti-static
packing material until you are ready to install the component. Before unwrapping the anti-static packaging, ensure that you
discharge static electricity from your body.
●Before transporting a static-sensitive component, place it in an anti-static container or packaging.
ESD field service kit
The unmonitored Field Service kit is the most commonly used service kit. Each Field Service kit includes three main components:
anti-static mat, wrist strap, and bonding wire.
Components of an ESD field service kit
The components of an ESD field service kit are:
●Anti-Static Mat – The anti-static mat is dissipative and parts can be placed on it during service procedures. When using an
anti-static mat, your wrist strap should be snug and the bonding wire should be connected to the mat and to any bare metal
on the system being worked on. Once deployed properly, service parts can be removed from the ESD bag and placed directly
on the mat. ESD-sensitive items are safe in your hand, on the ESD mat, in the system, or inside a bag.
●Wrist Strap and Bonding Wire – The wrist strap and bonding wire can be either directly connected between your wrist
and bare metal on the hardware if the ESD mat is not required, or connected to the anti-static mat to protect hardware that
is temporarily placed on the mat. The physical connection of the wrist strap and bonding wire between your skin, the ESD
mat, and the hardware is known as bonding. Use only Field Service kits with a wrist strap, mat, and bonding wire. Never
use wireless wrist straps. Always be aware that the internal wires of a wrist strap are prone to damage from normal wear
and tear, and must be checked regularly with a wrist strap tester in order to avoid accidental ESD hardware damage. It is
recommended to test the wrist strap and bonding wire at least once per week.
●ESD Wrist Strap Tester – The wires inside of an ESD strap are prone to damage over time. When using an unmonitored
kit, it is a best practice to regularly test the strap prior to each service call, and at a minimum, test once per week. A
wrist strap tester is the best method for doing this test. If you do not have your own wrist strap tester, check with your
regional office to find out if they have one. To perform the test, plug the wrist-strap's bonding-wire into the tester while it is
strapped to your wrist and push the button to test. A green LED is lit if the test is successful; a red LED is lit and an alarm
sounds if the test fails.
●Insulator Elements – It is critical to keep ESD sensitive devices, such as plastic heat sink casings, away from internal parts
that are insulators and often highly charged.
●Working Environment – Before deploying the ESD Field Service kit, assess the situation at the customer location. For
example, deploying the kit for a server environment is different than for a desktop or portable environment. Servers are
typically installed in a rack within a data center; desktops or portables are typically placed on office desks or cubicles. Always
look for a large open flat work area that is free of clutter and large enough to deploy the ESD kit with additional space to
accommodate the type of system that is being repaired. The workspace should also be free of insulators that can cause an
ESD event. On the work area, insulators such as Styrofoam and other plastics should always be moved at least 12 inches or
30 centimeters away from sensitive parts before physically handling any hardware components
●ESD Packaging – All ESD-sensitive devices must be shipped and received in static-safe packaging. Metal, static-shielded
bags are preferred. However, you should always return the damaged part using the same ESD bag and packaging that the
new part arrived in. The ESD bag should be folded over and taped shut and all the same foam packing material should be
used in the original box that the new part arrived in. ESD-sensitive devices should be removed from packaging only at an
ESD-protected work surface, and parts should never be placed on top of the ESD bag because only the inside of the bag is
shielded. Always place parts in your hand, on the ESD mat, in the system, or inside an anti-static bag.
●Transporting Sensitive Components – When transporting ESD sensitive components such as replacement parts or parts
to be returned to Dell, it is critical to place these parts in anti-static bags for safe transport.
8Working inside your computer
ESD protection summary
It is recommended that all field service technicians use the traditional wired ESD grounding wrist strap and protective anti-static
mat at all times when servicing Dell products. In addition, it is critical that technicians keep sensitive parts separate from all
insulator parts while performing service and that they use anti-static bags for transporting sensitive components.
After working inside your computer
About this task
CAUTION: Leaving stray or loose screws inside your computer may severely damage your computer.
Steps
1. Replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside your computer.
2. Connect any external devices, peripherals, or cables you removed before working on your computer.
3. Replace any media cards, discs, or any other parts that you removed before working on your computer.
4. Connect your computer and all attached devices to their electrical outlets.
5. Turn on your computer.
Working inside your computer 9
Removing and installing components
NOTE: The images in this document may differ from your computer depending on the configuration you ordered.
Recommended tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
●Phillips screwdriver #0
●Phillips screwdriver #1
●Plastic scribe
Screw list
NOTE: When removing screws from a component, it is recommended to note the screw type, the quantity of screws, and
then place them in a screw storage box. This is to ensure that the correct number of screws and correct screw type is
restored when the component is replaced.
NOTE: Some computers have magnetic surfaces. Ensure that the screws are not left attached to such surfaces when
replacing a component.
NOTE: Screw color may vary with the configuration ordered.
Table 1. Screw list
Component Screw type Quantity Image
Side cover 6x32 (Thumb screw)
NOTE: Captive
screw
1
M.2 2230/2280 Solid-state drive M2x3.5 1
WLAN card M2x3.5 1
I/O module (optional) M3x3 2
2
10 Removing and installing components
Table 1. Screw list (continued)
Component Screw type Quantity Image
System board M3x4
6-32
2
4
Removing and installing components 11
Major components of your system
1. Side cover
12 Removing and installing components
2. Fan assembly
3. Heatsink
4. Speaker
5. Hard drive caddy
6. System board
7. Chassis
8. Processor
9. M.2 WLAN
10. Memory module
11. M.2 Solid-state drive
12. Hard drive assembly
NOTE: Dell provides a list of components and their part numbers for the original system configuration purchased. These
parts are available according to warranty coverages purchased by the customer. Contact your Dell sales representative for
purchase options.
Side cover
Removing the side cover
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
NOTE: Ensure that you remove the security cable from the security-cable slot (if applicable).
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the side cover and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 13
Steps
1. Loosen the thumbscrew (6x32) that secures the side cover to the system.
14 Removing and installing components
2. Slide the side cover towards the front of the system and lift the cover.
Installing the side cover
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the side cover and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 15
Steps
1. Align the side cover with the grooves on the chassis.
2. Slide the side cover towards the back of the system to install it.
3. Tighten the thumbscrew (6x32) to secure the side cover to the system.
Next steps
1. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
Front bezel
Removing the front bezel
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the front bezel and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
16 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Pry the retention tabs to release the front bezel from the system.
2. Remove the front bezel from the system.
Installing the front bezel
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the front bezel and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 17
Steps
1. Position the bezel to align the tabs with the slots on the chassis.
2. Press the bezel until the release tabs click into place.
Next steps
1. Install the side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
Hard-drive assembly
Removing the hard-drive assembly
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the hard-drive assembly and provide a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
18 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Press the release tabs on the hard-drive assembly and slide it towards the front of the system to disconnect it from the
connector on the system board.
2. Lift the hard drive assembly from the system.
NOTE: Note the orientation of the hard drive so that you can replace it correctly.
Removing the hard-drive bracket
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
3. Remove the 2.5 in. hard-drive assembly.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the hard-drive bracket and provide a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Removing and installing components 19
Steps
1. Pull one side of the hard-drive bracket to disengage the pins on the bracket from the slots on the drive.
2. Lift the hard-drive out of the bracket.
Installing the hard-drive bracket
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the hard-drive bracket and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
20 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Place the hard-drive into the bracket.
2. Align and insert the pins on the drive bracket with the slots on the drive.
NOTE: Note the orientation of the hard-drive so that you can replace it correctly.
Next steps
1. Install the 2.5 in. hard-drive assembly.
2. Install the side cover.
3. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
Installing the 2.5 in. hard-drive assembly
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the hard-drive assembly and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 21
Steps
1. Insert the hard-drive assembly into the slot on the system.
2. Slide the hard-drive assembly towards the connector in the system board until the release tabs clicks into place.
Next steps
1. Install the side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
Solid-state drive
Removing the M.2 2230 PCIe solid-state drive
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
3. Remove the hard-drive assembly.
22 Removing and installing components
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the solid-state drive and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the screw (M2x3.5) that secures the solid-state drive to the system board.
2. Slide and lift the solid-state drive off the system board.
Installing the M.2 2230 PCIe solid-state drive
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 23
Steps
1. Align the notch on the solid-state drive with the tab on the solid-state drive connector on the system board.
2. Insert the solid-state drive at a 45-degree angle into the solid-state drive connector.
3. Replace the screw (M2x3.5) that secures the M.2 2230 PCIe solid-state drive to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the hard-drive assembly.
2. Install the side cover.
3. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
Removing the M.2 2280 PCIe solid-state drive
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
3. Remove the hard-drive assembly.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the solid-state drive and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
24 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Remove the screw (M2x3.5) that secures the solid-state drive to the system board.
2. Slide and lift the solid-state drive off the system board.
Installing the M.2 2280 PCIe solid-state drive
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 25
Steps
1. Align the notch on the solid-state drive with the tab on the solid-state drive connector on the system board.
2. Insert the solid-state drive at a 45-degree angle into the solid-state drive connector.
3. Replace the screw (M2x3.5) that secures the M.2 2280 PCIe solid-state drive to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the hard-drive assembly.
2. Install the side cover.
3. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
Fan assembly
Removing the fan assembly
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the fan assembly and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
26 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 27
Steps
1. Unroute the speaker cable from the routing guide on the fan assembly.
2. Press the blue tabs on both sides of the fan, and slide to lift the fan to release it from the system.
3. Turn the fan assembly over.
4. Disconnect the fan cable from the connector on the system board. Lift the fan assembly out of the system.
Installing the fan assembly
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the fan assembly and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
28 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 29
Steps
1. Connect the fan cable to the connector on the system board.
2. Turn the fan assembly over.
3. Press the release tab on the fan assembly and place it on the system until it clicks into place.
4. Route the speaker cable through the routing guides on the fan assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
WLAN card
Removing the WLAN card
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
30 Removing and installing components
2. Remove the side cover.
3. Remove the hard-drive assembly.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the wireless card and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the (M2x3.5) screw that secures the WLAN card bracket to the system board.
2. Slide and lift the WLAN card bracket away from the WLAN card.
3. Disconnect the antenna cables from the WLAN card.
4. Slide and remove the WLAN card from the connector on the system board.
Installing the WLAN card
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the wireless card and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 31
Steps
1. Connect the antenna cables to the WLAN card.
The following table provides the antenna-cable color scheme for the WLAN card of your computer.
Table 2. Antenna-cable color scheme
Connectors on the wireless card Antenna-cable color
Main (white triangle) White
Auxiliary (black triangle) Black
2. Place the WLAN card bracket to secure the antenna cables.
3. Align the notch on the WLAN card with the tab on the WLAN card slot. Insert the WLAN card into the connector on the
system board.
4. Replace the (M2x3.5) screw to secure the WLAN card bracket to the WLAN card.
Next steps
1. Install the hard-drive assembly.
2. Install the side cover.
3. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
32 Removing and installing components
Heat sink
Removing the heat sink
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
3. Remove the fan assembly.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the heat sink and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Loosen the three captive screws that secure the heat sink to the system.
NOTE: Loosen the screw in the sequential order (1,2,3) as printed on the heat sink.
2. Lift the heat-sink from the system board.
Removing and installing components 33
Installing the heat sink
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the heat sink and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Align the screws of the heat sink with the holders on the system board and place the heat sink on the processor.
2. Tighten the captive screws that secure the heat sink to the system board.
NOTE: Tighten the screws in a sequential order (1,2,3) as printed on the heat sink.
Next steps
1. Install the fan assembly.
2. Install the side cover.
3. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
34 Removing and installing components
Coin-cell battery
Removing the coin-cell battery
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
NOTE: Removing the coin-cell battery resets the BIOS setup program settings to default. It is recommended that you note
the BIOS setup program settings before removing the coin-cell battery.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the coin-cell battery and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Using a plastic scribe, gently pry the coin-cell battery out of the battery socket on the system board.
2. Remove the coin-cell battery out of the system.
Installing the coin-cell battery
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the coin-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 35
Steps
1. Insert the coin cell battery with the "+" sign facing up and slide it under the securing tabs at the positive side of the
connector.
2. Press the battery into the connector until it locks into place.
Next steps
1. Install the side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
Memory modules
Removing the memory modules
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
3. Remove the fan assembly.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the memory modules and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges. Do not touch the
components on the memory module.
36 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Pull the securing clips from the memory module until the memory module pops up.
2. Slide and remove the memory module from the memory-module slot.
Installing the memory modules
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the memory modules and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 37
Steps
1. Align the notch on the memory module with the tab on the memory-module slot.
2. Slide the memory module firmly into the slot at an angle and press the memory module down until it clicks into place.
NOTE: If you do not hear the click, remove the memory module and reinstall it.
Next steps
1. Install the fan assembly.
2. Install the side cover.
3. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
Speaker
Removing the speaker
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
3. Remove the fan assembly.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the speaker and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
38 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.
2. Press the release tab and lift the speaker along with the cable from the system board.
Installing the speaker
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the speaker and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 39
Steps
1. Align and insert the speaker into the slot and press it until the release tab clicks.
2. Connect the speaker cable to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the fan assembly.
2. Install the side cover.
3. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
Optional I/O modules (Type C/ HDMI/VGA/DP/Serial)
Removing optional I/O modules (Type C/ HDMI/VGA/DP/Serial)
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the optional I/O Modules and provide a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the two (M3X3) screws that secure the optional I/O module to the computer chassis.
2. Disconnect the I/O-module cable from the connector on the system board.
3. Remove the I/O module from the computer.
40 Removing and installing components
Installing optional I/O modules (Type C/ HDMI/VGA/DP/Serial)
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the system board and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 41
42 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 43
Steps
1. To remove the dummy metal bracket, insert a flat-head screwdriver in the hole of the bracket. Push the bracket to release
the bracket, and then lift the bracket out from the system.
NOTE: This is applicable if you are upgrading the system or adding any of the optional video ports. This is not applicable
if you are replacing a defective module.
2. Insert the optional I/O module (Type-C/HDMI/VGA/DP/Serial) into its slot from the inside of your computer.
3. Connect the I/O cable to the connector on the system board.
4. Replace the two (M3X3) screws to secure the optional I/O module to the system.
Next steps
1. Install the side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
44 Removing and installing components
Processor
Removing the processor
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
3. Remove the fan assembly.
4. Remove the heat sink.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the processor and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Press down and push the release lever away from the processor to release it from the securing tab.
2. Lift the lever upward to lift the processor cover.
Removing and installing components 45
CAUTION: When removing the processor, do not touch any of the pins inside the socket or allow any objects
to fall on the pins in the socket.
3. Gently lift the processor from the processor socket.
Installing the processor
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the processor and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Align the pin-1 corner of the processor with the pin 1 corner of the processor socket, and then place the processor in the
processor socket.
46 Removing and installing components
NOTE: The pin-1 corner of the processor has a triangle that aligns with the triangle on the pin-1 corner on the processor
socket. When the processor is properly seated, all four corners are aligned at the same height. If one or more corners of
the processor are higher than the others, the processor is not seated properly.
2. When the processor is fully seated in the socket, close the processor cover.
3. Press down and push the release lever under the securing tab to lock it.
Next steps
1. Install the heat sink.
2. Install the fan assembly.
3. Install the side cover.
4. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
System board
Removing the system board
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the side cover.
3. Remove the hard drive assembly.
4. Remove the solid-state drive.
5. Remove the WLAN card.
6. Remove the fan assembly.
7. Remove the heat sink.
8. Remove the memory modules.
9. Remove the speaker.
10. Remove the optional IO module.
11. Remove the processor.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the system board and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 47
48 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Remove the screw (6-32) that secures the hard drive caddy support to the system board.
2. Lift the hard drive caddy support away from the system board.
3. Remove the two (M3x4) screws and three (6-32) screws that secure the system board to the chassis.
4. Lift the system board away from the chassis.
Installing the system board
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the system board and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 49
50 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Align and lower the system board into the system until the connectors at the back of the system board align with the slots
on the chassis, and the screw holes on the system board align with the standoffs on the system.
2. Replace the two (M3x4) screws and three (6-32) screws to secure the system board to the chassis.
3. Align the slot on the hard drive caddy support with system board and place the hard drive caddy on the system board.
4. Replace the screw (6-32) to secure the hard drive caddy support to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the processor.
2. Install the optional IO module.
3. Install the speaker.
4. Install the memory modules.
5. Install the heat sink.
6. Install the fan assembly.
7. Install the WLAN card.
8. Install the solid-state drive.
9. Install the hard drive assembly.
10. Install the side cover.
11. Follow the procedure in after working inside your computer.
Removing and installing components 51
BIOS setup
CAUTION: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings in the BIOS Setup program.
Certain changes can make your computer work incorrectly.
NOTE: Depending on the computer and its installed devices, the items listed in this section may or may not be displayed.
NOTE: Before you change BIOS Setup program, it is recommended that you write down the BIOS Setup program screen
information for future reference.
Use the BIOS Setup program for the following purposes:
●Get information about the hardware installed in your computer, such as the amount of RAM and the size of the hard drive.
●Change the system configuration information.
●Set or change a user-selectable option, such as the user password, type of hard drive installed, and enabling or disabling
base devices.
BIOS overview
The BIOS manages data flow between the computer's operating system and attached devices such as hard disk, video adapter,
keyboard, mouse, and printer.
Entering BIOS setup program
Steps
1. Turn on your computer.
2. Press F2 immediately to enter the BIOS setup program.
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the desktop. Then,
turn off your computer and try again.
Navigation keys
NOTE: For most of the System Setup options, changes that you make are recorded but do not take effect until you restart
the system.
Table 3. Navigation keys
Keys Navigation
Up arrow Moves to the previous field.
Down arrow Moves to the next field.
Enter Selects a value in the selected field (if applicable) or follow
the link in the field.
Spacebar Expands or collapses a drop-down list, if applicable.
Tab Moves to the next focus area.
NOTE: For the standard graphics browser only.
4
BIOS setup 53
Table 3. Navigation keys (continued)
Keys Navigation
Esc Moves to the previous page until you view the main screen.
Pressing Esc in the main screen displays a message that
prompts you to save any unsaved changes and restarts the
system.
One time boot menu
To enter one time boot menu, turn on your computer, and then press F12 immediately.
NOTE: It is recommended to shutdown the computer if it is on.
The one-time boot menu displays the devices that you can boot from including the diagnostic option. The boot menu options
are:
●Removable Drive (if available)
●STXXXX Drive (if available)
NOTE: XXX denotes the SATA drive number.
●Optical Drive (if available)
●SATA Hard Drive (if available)
●Diagnostics
The boot sequence screen also displays the option to access the System Setup screen.
System setup options
NOTE: Depending on the computer and its installed devices, the items listed in this section may or may not appear.
General options
Table 4. General
Option Description
System Information Displays the following information:
●System Information: Displays BIOS Version, Service Tag, Asset Tag, Ownership Tag,
Manufacture Date, Ownership Date, and the Express Service Code.
●Memory Information: Displays Memory Installed, Memory Available, Memory Speed,
Memory Channel Mode, Memory Technology, DIMM 1 Size, and DIMM 2 Size.
●PCI Information: Displays Slot1_M.2, Slot2_M.2
●Processor Information: Displays Processor Type, Core Count, Processor ID, Current
Clock Speed, Minimum Clock Speed, Maximum Clock Speed, Processor L2 Cache,
Processor L3 Cache, HT Capable, and 64-Bit Technology.
●Device Information: Displays SATA-0, M.2 PCIe SSD-2, LOM MAC Address, Video
Controller, Audio Controller, Wi-Fi Device, and Bluetooth Device.
Boot Sequence Allows you to specify the order in which the computer attempts to find an operating system
from the devices specified in this list.
UEFI Boot Path Security This option controls whether or not the system prompts the user to enter the Admin
password when booting a UEFI boot path from the F12 Boot Menu.
Date/Time Allows you to set the date and time settings. Changes to the system date and time take
effect immediately.
.
54 BIOS setup
System information
Table 5. System Configuration
Option Description
Integrated NIC Allows you to control the onboard LAN controller. The option ‘Enable UEFI Network Stack’ is
not selected by default. The options are:
●Disabled
●Enabled
●Enabled w/PXE (default)
NOTE: Depending on the computer and its installed devices, the items that are listed in
this section may or may not appear.
SATA Operation Allows you to configure the operating mode of the integrated hard drive controller.
●Disabled = The SATA controllers are hidden
●AHCI = SATA is configured for AHCI mode
●RAID ON = SATA is configured to support RAID mode (selected by default)
Drives Allows you to enable or disable the various drives onboard:
●SATA-0 (enabled by default)
●M.2 PCIe SSD-0 (enabled by default)
Smart Reporting This field controls whether hard-drive errors for integrated drives are reported during system
startup. The Enable Smart Reporting option is disabled by default.
USB Configuration Allows you to enable or disable the integrated USB controller for:
●Enable USB Boot Support
●Enable Front USB Ports
●Enable Rear USB Ports
All the options are enabled by default.
Front USB Configuration Allows you to enable or disable the front USB ports. All the ports are enabled by default.
Rear USB Configuration Allows you to enable or disable the back USB ports. All the ports are enabled by default.
Audio Allows you to enable or disable the integrated audio controller. The option Enable Audio is
selected by default.
●Enable Microphone
●Enable Internal Speaker
Both the options are selected by default.
Dust Filter Maintenance Allows you to enable or disable BIOS messages for maintaining the optional dust filter that
is installed in your computer. BIOS will generate a pre-boot reminder to clean or replace the
dust filter based on the interval set. The option Disabled is selected by default.
●Disabled
●15 days
●30 days
●60 days
●90 days
●120 days
●150 days
●180 days
Video screen options
Table 6. Video
Option Description
Primary Display Allows you to select the primary display when multiple controllers are available in the system.
BIOS setup 55
Table 6. Video
Option Description
●Auto (default)
●Intel HD Graphics
NOTE: If you do not select Auto, the on-board graphics device will be present and
enabled.
Security
Table 7. Security
Option Description
Admin Password Allows you to set, change, and delete the admin password.
System Password Allows you to set, change, and delete the system password.
Internal HDD-0 Password Allows you to set, change, and delete the computer’s internal hard drive password.
Password Configuration Allows you to control the minimum and maximum number of characters that are allowed for
an administrative password and the system password. The range of characters is between 4
and 32.
Password Bypass This option lets you bypass the System (Boot) Password and the internal hard drive
password prompts during a system restart.
●Disabled — Always prompt for the system and internal HDD password when they are set.
This option is disabled by default.
●Reboot Bypass — Bypass the password prompts on Restarts (warm boots).
NOTE: The system will always prompt for the system and internal HDD passwords when
powered on from the off state (a cold boot). Also, the system will always prompt for
passwords on any module bay HDDs that may be present.
Password Change This option lets you determine whether changes to the System and Hard Disk passwords are
permitted when an administrator password is set.
Allow Non-Admin Password Changes - This option is enabled by default.
UEFI Capsule Firmware
Updates
This option controls whether this system allows BIOS updates via UEFI capsule update
packages. This option is selected by default. Disabling this option will block BIOS updates
from services such as Microsoft Windows Update and Linux Vendor Firmware Service
(LVFS).
TPM 2.0 Security Allows you to control whether the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is visible to the operating
system.
●TPM On (default)
●Clear
●PPI Bypass for Enable Commands
●PPI Bypass for Disable Commands
●PPI Bypass for Clear Commands
●Attestation Enable (default)
●Key Storage Enable (default)
●SHA-256 (default)
Choose any one option:
●Disabled
●Enabled (default)
Absolute This field lets you Enable, Disable or permanently Disable the BIOS module interface of the
optional Absolute Persistence Module service from Absolute Software.
●Enabled - This option is selected by default.
●Disable
56 BIOS setup
Table 7. Security (continued)
Option Description
●Permanently Disabled
Chassis Intrusion This field controls the chassis intrusion feature.
Choose any one of the options:
●Disabled (default)
●Enabled
●On-Silent
Admin Setup Lockout Allows you to prevent users from entering Setup when Admin password is set. This option is
not set by default.
Master Password Lockout Allows you to disable master password support. Hard Disk passwords need to be cleared
before the settings can be changed. This option is not set by default.
SMM Security Mitigation Allows you to enable or disable additional UEFI SMM Security Mitigation protections. This
option is not set by default.
Secure boot options
Table 8. Secure Boot
Option Description
Secure Boot Enable Allows you to enable or disable Secure Boot feature
●Secure Boot Enable
This option is not selected by default.
Secure Boot Mode Allows you to modify the behavior of Secure Boot to allow evaluation or enforcement of
UEFI driver signatures.
●Deployed Mode (default)
●Audit Mode
Expert key Management Allows you to manipulate the security key databases only if the system is in Custom Mode.
The Enable Custom Mode option is disabled by default. The options are:
●PK (default)
●KEK
●db
●dbx
If you enable the Custom Mode, the relevant options for PK, KEK, db, and dbx appear.
The options are:
●Save to File- Saves the key to a user-selected file
●Replace from File- Replaces the current key with a key from a user-selected file
●Append from File- Adds a key to the current database from a user-selected file
●Delete- Deletes the selected key
●Reset All Keys- Resets to default setting
●Delete All Keys- Deletes all the keys
NOTE: If you disable the Custom Mode, all the changes made will be erased and the
keys will restore to default settings.
BIOS setup 57
Intel Software Guard Extensions options
Table 9. Intel Software Guard Extensions
Option Description
Intel SGX Enable This field specifies you to provide a secured environment for
running code/storing sensitive information in the context of
the main OS.
Click one of the following options:
●Disabled
●Enabled
●Software controlled—Default
Enclave Memory Size This option sets SGX Enclave Reserve Memory Size
Click one of the following options:
●32 MB
●64 MB
●128 MB—Default
Performance
Table 10. Performance
Option Description
Multi Core Support This field specifies whether the process has one or all cores
enabled. The performance of some applications improves with
the additional cores.
●All—Default
●1
●2
●3
Intel SpeedStep Allows you to enable or disable the Intel SpeedStep mode of
processor.
●Enable Intel SpeedStep
This option is set by default.
C-States Control Allows you to enable or disable the additional processor sleep
states.
●C states
This option is set by default.
Intel TurboBoost Allows you to enable or disable the Intel TurboBoost mode of
the processor.
●Enable Intel TurboBoost
This option is set by default.
Hyper-Thread Control Allows you to enable or disable the HyperThreading in the
processor.
●Disabled
●Enabled—Default
58 BIOS setup
Power management
Table 11. Power Management
Option Description
AC Recovery Determines how the system responds when AC power is re-applied after a power loss. You
can set the AC Recovery to:
●Power Off
●Power On
●Last Power State
This option is Power Off by default.
Enable Intel Speed Shift
Technology
Allows you to enable or disable Intel Speed Shift Technology support. The option Enable
Intel Speed Shift Technology is set by default.
Auto On Time Sets time to automatically turn on the computer. Time is kept in standard 12-hour format
(hour:minutes:seconds). Change the startup time by typing the values in the time and
AM/PM fields.
NOTE: This feature does not work if you turn off your computer using the switch on a
power strip or surge protector or if Auto Power is set to disabled.
Deep Sleep Control Allows you to define the controls when Deep Sleep is enabled.
●Disabled
●Enabled in S5 only
●Enabled in S4 and S5
.
USB Wake Support Allows you to enable the USB devices to wake the computer from standby mode. The option
"Enable USB Wake Support" is selected by default
Wake on LAN/WWAN This option allows the computer to power up from the off state when triggered by a special
LAN signal. This feature only works when the computer is connected to AC power supply.
●Disabled - Does not allows the system to power on by special LAN signals when it
receives a wake-up signal from the LAN or wireless LAN.
●LAN or WLAN - Allows the system to be powered on by special LAN or wireless LAN
signals.
●LAN Only - Allows the system to be powered on by special LAN signals.
●LAN with PXE Boot - A wakeup packet sent to the system in either the S4 or S5 state,
that will cause the system to wake-up and immediately boot to PXE.
●WLAN Only - Allows the system to be powered on by special WLAN signals.
This option is Disabled by default.
Block Sleep Allows you to block entering to sleep (S3 state) in OS environment. This option is disabled by
default.
Post behavior
Table 12. POST Behavior
Option Description
Adapter Warnings This option lets you choose whether the system displays warning messages when you use
certain power adapters. This option is enabled by default.
Numlock LED Allows you to enable or disable the Numlock feature when your computer starts. This option
is enabled by default.
Keyboard Errors Allows you to enable or disable the keyboard error reporting when the computer starts. The
option Enable Keyboard Error Detection is enabled by default.
Fast Boot This option can speed up the boot process by bypassing some compatibility steps:
BIOS setup 59
Table 12. POST Behavior (continued)
Option Description
●Minimal — The system boots quickly, unless the BIOS has been updated, memory
changed, or the previous POST did not complete.
●Thorough — The system does not skip any steps in the boot process.
●Auto — This allows the operating system to control this setting (this works only when
the operating system supports Simple Boot Flag).
This option is set to Thorough by default.
Extend BIOS POST Time This option creates an additional pre-boot delay.
●0 seconds (default)
●5 seconds
●10 seconds
Full Screen Logo This option will display full screen logo if your image match screen resolution. The option
Enable Full Screen Logo is not set by default.
Warnings and Errors This option causes the boot process to only pause when warning or errors are detected.
Choose any one of the option:
●Prompt on Warnings and Errors - default
●Continue on Warnings
●Continue on Warnings and Errors
Virtualization support
Table 13. Virtualization Support
Option Description
Virtualization This option specifies whether a Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) can utilize the additional
hardware capabilities provided by the Intel Virtualization technology.
●Enable Intel Virtualization Technology
This option is set by default.
VT for Direct I/O Enables or disables the Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) from utilizing the additional hardware
capabilities provided by the Intel Virtualization technology for direct I/O.
●Enable VT for Direct I/O
This option is set by default.
Wireless options
Table 14. Wireless
Option Description
Wireless Device Enable Allows you to enable or disable the internal wireless devices.
The options are:
●WLAN/WiGig
●Bluetooth
All the options are enabled by default.
60 BIOS setup
Maintenance
Table 15. Maintenance
Option Description
Service Tag Displays the service tag of your computer.
Asset Tag Allows you to create a system asset tag if an asset tag is not already set.
This option is not set by default.
SERR Messages Controls the SERR message mechanism. This option is set by default. Some graphics cards
require that the SERR message mechanism be disabled.
BIOS Downgrade Allows you to flash previous revisions of the system firmware.
●Allow BIOS Downgrade
This option is set by default.
Data Wipe Allows you to securely erase data from all internal storage devices.
●Wipe on Next Boot
This option is not set by default.
BIOS Recovery BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive—This option is set by default. Allows you to recover the
corrupted BIOS from a recovery file on the HDD or an external USB key.
NOTE: BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive field must be enabled.
Always Perform Integrity Check—Performs integrity check on every boot.
First Power On Date Allows you the set Ownership date. The option Set Ownership Date is not set by default.
System logs
Table 16. System Logs
Option Description
BIOS events Allows you to view and clear the System Setup (BIOS) POST events.
Advanced configuration
Table 17. Advanced configuration
Option Description
ASPM Allows you to set the ASPM level.
●Auto (default) - There is handshaking between the device and PCI Express hub to
determine the best ASPM mode supported by the device
●Disabled - ASPM power management is turned off at all time
●L1 Only - ASPM power management is set to use L1
BIOS setup 61
SupportAssist System Resolution
Option Description
Auto OS
Recovery
Threshold
Allows you to control the automatic boot flow for SupportAssist System. Options are:
●Off
●1
●2 (Enabled by default)
●3
SupportAssist
OS Recovery
Allows you to recover the SupportAssist OS Recovery (Enabled by default).
BIOSConnect BIOSConnect enable or disable cloud Service OS upon absence of Local OS Recovery (Enabled by
default).
Updating the BIOS
Updating the BIOS in Windows
About this task
CAUTION: If BitLocker is not suspended before updating the BIOS, the next time you reboot the system it
will not recognize the BitLocker key. You will then be prompted to enter the recovery key to progress and the
system will ask for this on each reboot. If the recovery key is not known this can result in data loss or an
unnecessary operating system re-install. For more information on this subject, see Knowledge Article: https://
www.dell.com/support/article/sln153694
Steps
1. Go to www.dell.com/support.
2. Click Product support. In the Search support box, enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Search.
NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the SupportAssist feature to automatically identify your computer. You
can also use the product ID or manually browse for your computer model.
3. Click Drivers & Downloads. Expand Find drivers.
4. Select the operating system installed on your computer.
5. In the Category drop-down list, select BIOS.
6. Select the latest version of BIOS, and click Download to download the BIOS file for your computer.
7. After the download is complete, browse the folder where you saved the BIOS update file.
8. Double-click the BIOS update file icon and follow the on-screen instructions.
For more information, see knowledge base article 000124211 at www.dell.com/support.
Updating the BIOS in Linux and Ubuntu
To update the system BIOS on a computer that is installed with Linux or Ubuntu, see the knowledge base article 000131486 at
www.dell.com/support.
Updating the BIOS using the USB drive in Windows
About this task
CAUTION: If BitLocker is not suspended before updating the BIOS, the next time you reboot the system it
will not recognize the BitLocker key. You will then be prompted to enter the recovery key to progress and the
62 BIOS setup
system will ask for this on each reboot. If the recovery key is not known this can result in data loss or an
unnecessary operating system re-install. For more information on this subject, see Knowledge Article: https://
www.dell.com/support/article/sln153694
Steps
1. Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 6 in Updating the BIOS in Windows to download the latest BIOS setup program file.
2. Create a bootable USB drive. For more information, see the knowledge base article 000145519 at www.dell.com/support.
3. Copy the BIOS setup program file to the bootable USB drive.
4. Connect the bootable USB drive to the computer that needs the BIOS update.
5. Restart the computer and press F12 .
6. Select the USB drive from the One Time Boot Menu.
7. Type the BIOS setup program filename and press Enter.
The BIOS Update Utility appears.
8. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the BIOS update.
Updating the BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu
Update your computer BIOS using the BIOS update.exe file that is copied to a FAT32 USB drive and booting from the F12
One-Time boot menu.
About this task
CAUTION: If BitLocker is not suspended before updating the BIOS, the next time you reboot the system it
will not recognize the BitLocker key. You will then be prompted to enter the recovery key to progress and the
system will ask for this on each reboot. If the recovery key is not known this can result in data loss or an
unnecessary operating system re-install. For more information on this subject, see Knowledge Article: https://
www.dell.com/support/article/sln153694
BIOS Update
You can run the BIOS update file from Windows using a bootable USB drive or you can also update the BIOS from the F12
One-Time boot menu on the computer.
Most of the Dell computers built after 2012 have this capability, and you can confirm by booting your computer to the F12
One-Time Boot Menu to see if BIOS FLASH UPDATE is listed as a boot option for your computer. If the option is listed, then the
BIOS supports this BIOS update option.
NOTE: Only computers with BIOS Flash Update option in the F12 One-Time boot menu can use this function.
Updating from the One-Time boot menu
To update your BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu, you need the following:
●USB drive formatted to the FAT32 file system (key does not have to be bootable)
●BIOS executable file that you downloaded from the Dell Support website and copied to the root of the USB drive
●AC power adapter that is connected to the computer
●Functional computer battery to flash the BIOS
Perform the following steps to perform the BIOS update flash process from the F12 menu:
CAUTION: Do not turn off the computer during the BIOS update process. The computer may not boot if you turn
off your computer.
Steps
1. From a turn off state, insert the USB drive where you copied the flash into a USB port of the computer.
2. Turn on the computer and press F12 to access the One-Time Boot Menu, select BIOS Update using the mouse or arrow keys
then press Enter.
The flash BIOS menu is displayed.
3. Click Flash from file.
4. Select external USB device.
BIOS setup 63
5. Select the file and double-click the flash target file, and then click Submit.
6. Click Update BIOS. The computer restarts to flash the BIOS.
7. The computer will restart after the BIOS update is completed.
System and setup password
Table 18. System and setup password
Password type Description
System password Password that you must enter to log in to your system.
Setup password Password that you must enter to access and make changes to
the BIOS settings of your computer.
You can create a system password and a setup password to secure your computer.
CAUTION: The password features provide a basic level of security for the data on your computer.
CAUTION: Anyone can access the data that is stored on your computer if it is not locked and left unattended.
NOTE: System and setup password feature is disabled.
Assigning a system setup password
Prerequisites
You can assign a new System or Admin Password only when the status is in Not Set.
About this task
To enter the system setup, press F12 immediately after a power-on or reboot.
Steps
1. In the System BIOS or System Setup screen, select Security and press Enter.
The Security screen is displayed.
2. Select System/Admin Password and create a password in the Enter the new password field.
Use the following guidelines to assign the system password:
●A password can have up to 32 characters.
●At least one special character: ! " # $ % & ' ( ) * + , - . / : ; < = > ? @ [ \ ] ^ _ ` { | }
●Numbers 0 through 9.
●Upper case letters from A to Z.
●Lower case letters from a to z.
3. Type the system password that you entered earlier in the Confirm new password field and click OK.
4. Press Esc and save the changes as prompted by the pop-up message.
5. Press Y to save the changes.
The computer restarts.
Deleting or changing an existing system setup password
Prerequisites
Ensure that the Password Status is Unlocked (in the System Setup) before attempting to delete or change the existing
System and/or Setup password. You cannot delete or change an existing System or Setup password, if the Password Status is
Locked.
64 BIOS setup
About this task
To enter the System Setup, press F12 immediately after a power-on or reboot.
Steps
1. In the System BIOS or System Setup screen, select System Security and press Enter.
The System Security screen is displayed.
2. In the System Security screen, verify that Password Status is Unlocked.
3. Select System Password, update, or delete the existing system password, and press Enter or Tab.
4. Select Setup Password, update, or delete the existing setup password, and press Enter or Tab.
NOTE: If you change the System and/or Setup password, reenter the new password when prompted. If you delete the
System and/or Setup password, confirm the deletion when prompted.
5. Press Esc and a message prompts you to save the changes.
6. Press Y to save the changes and exit from System Setup.
The computer restarts.
Clearing BIOS (System Setup) and System passwords
About this task
To clear the system or BIOS passwords, contact Dell technical support as described at www.dell.com/contactdell.
NOTE: For information on how to reset Windows or application passwords, refer to the documentation accompanying
Windows or your application.
BIOS setup 65
Troubleshooting
Dell SupportAssist Pre-boot System Performance
Check diagnostics
About this task
SupportAssist diagnostics (also known as system diagnostics) performs a complete check of your hardware. The Dell
SupportAssist Pre-boot System Performance Check diagnostics is embedded with the BIOS and is launched by the BIOS
internally. The embedded system diagnostics provides a set of options for particular devices or device groups allowing you to:
●Run tests automatically or in an interactive mode
●Repeat tests
●Display or save test results
●Run thorough tests to introduce additional test options to provide extra information about the failed device(s)
●View status messages that inform you if tests are completed successfully
●View error messages that inform you of problems encountered during testing
NOTE: Some tests for specific devices require user interaction. Always ensure that you are present at the computer
terminal when the diagnostic tests are performed.
For more information, see https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/000180971.
Running the SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance Check
Steps
1. Turn on your computer.
2. As the computer boots, press the F12 key as the Dell logo appears.
3. On the boot menu screen, select the Diagnostics option.
4. Click the arrow at the bottom left corner.
Diagnostics front page is displayed.
5. Click the arrow in the lower-right corner to go to the page listing.
The items detected are listed.
6. To run a diagnostic test on a specific device, press Esc and click Yes to stop the diagnostic test.
7. Select the device from the left pane and click Run Tests.
8. If there are any issues, error codes are displayed.
Note the error code and validation number and contact Dell.
Diagnostic LED behavior
Table 19. Diagnostic LED behavior
Blinking pattern
Problem description Suggested resolutionAmber White
1 2 Unrecoverable SPI Flash
Failure
5
66 Troubleshooting
Table 19. Diagnostic LED behavior (continued)
Blinking pattern
Problem description Suggested resolutionAmber White
2 1 CPU failure ●Run the Dell Support
Assist/Dell Diagnostics
tool.
●If problem persists,
replace the system board.
2 2 System board failure (included
BIOS corruption or ROM
error)
●Flash latest BIOS version
●If problem persists,
replace the system board.
2 3 No memory/RAM detected ●Confirm that the memory
module is installed
properly.
●If problem persists,
replace the memory
module.
2 4 Memory/RAM failure ●Reset the memory module.
●If problem persists,
replace the memory
module.
2 5 Invalid memory installed ●Reset the memory module.
●If problem persists,
replace the memory
module.
2 6 System board / Chipset
Error / Clock failure / Gate
A20 failure / Super I/O
failure / Keyboard controller
failure
●Flash latest BIOS version
●If problem persists,
replace the system board.
3 1 CMOS battery failure ●Reset the CMOS battery
connection.
●If problem persists,
replace the RTS battery.
3 2 PCI or Video card/chip failure Replace the system board.
3 3 BIOS Recovery image not
found
●Flash latest BIOS version
●If problem persists,
replace the system board.
3 4 BIOS Recovery image found
but invalid
●Flash latest BIOS version
●If problem persists,
replace the system board.
3 5 Power rail failure ●EC ran into power
sequencing failure.
●If problem persists,
replace the system board.
3 6 SBIOS Flash corruption ●Flash corruption detected
by SBIOS
●If problem persists,
replace the system board.
3 7 Intel ME (Management
Engine) Error
●Timeout waiting on ME to
reply to HECI message
●If problem persists,
replace the system board.
Troubleshooting 67
Table 19. Diagnostic LED behavior (continued)
Blinking pattern
Problem description Suggested resolutionAmber White
4 2 CPU Power Cable Connection
Issue
Recovering the operating system
When your computer is unable to boot to the operating system even after repeated attempts, it automatically starts Dell
SupportAssist OS Recovery.
Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery is a standalone tool that is preinstalled in all Dell computers installed with Windows operating
system. It consists of tools to diagnose and troubleshoot issues that may occur before your computer boots to the operating
system. It enables you to diagnose hardware issues, repair your computer, back up your files, or restore your computer to its
factory state.
You can also download it from the Dell Support website to troubleshoot and fix your computer when it fails to boot into their
primary operating system due to software or hardware failures.
For more information about the Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery, see Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery User's Guide at
www.dell.com/serviceabilitytools. Click SupportAssist and then, click SupportAssist OS Recovery.
Backup media and recovery options
It is recommended to create a recovery drive to troubleshoot and fix problems that may occur with Windows. Dell proposes
multiple options for recovering Windows operating system on your Dell PC. For more information. see Dell Windows Backup
Media and Recovery Options.
WiFi power cycle
About this task
If your computer is unable to access the internet due to WiFi connectivity issues a WiFi power cycle procedure may be
performed. The following procedure provides the instructions on how to conduct a WiFi power cycle:
NOTE: Some ISPs (Internet Service Providers) provide a modem/router combo device.
Steps
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Turn off the modem.
3. Turn off the wireless router.
4. Wait for 30 seconds.
5. Turn on the wireless router.
6. Turn on the modem.
7. Turn on your computer.
68 Troubleshooting
Getting help
Contacting Dell
Prerequisites
NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing
slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.
About this task
Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options. Availability varies by country and product, and
some services may not be available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues:
Steps
1. Go to Dell.com/support.
2. Select your support category.
3. Verify your country or region in the Choose a Country/Region drop-down list at the bottom of the page.
4. Select the appropriate service or support link based on your need.
6
Getting help 69