Table of Contents
- Inspiron 3891 Service Manual
- Contents
- Working inside your computer
- Removing and installing components
- Recommended tools
- Screw list
- Left-side cover
- Front cover
- Fan shroud
- Memory modules
- Solid-state drive
- Coin-cell battery
- Wireless card
- Antenna modules
- Graphics card
- Serial and parallel ports expansion card
- Power-supply unit
- Hard drive
- Optical drive
- Optical-drive bezel
- Media-card reader
- Fan and heat-sink assembly
- Processor
- System board
- Drivers and downloads
- System setup
- Troubleshooting
- Getting help and contacting Dell
DELL 3891 User Manual
Displayed below is the user manual for 3891 by DELL which is a product in the PCs/Workstations category. This manual has pages.
Related Manuals
Inspiron 3891
Service Manual
Regulatory Model: D29M
Regulatory Type: D29M004
August 2021
Rev. A02
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...................................................................................... 5
Before working inside your computer.............................................................................................................................5
Safety instructions.............................................................................................................................................................. 5
Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection..................................................................................................................... 6
ESD field service kit ........................................................................................................................................................... 6
Transporting sensitive components................................................................................................................................ 7
After working inside your computer................................................................................................................................8
Chapter 2: Removing and installing components........................................................................... 9
Recommended tools........................................................................................................................................................... 9
Screw list............................................................................................................................................................................... 9
System-board components........................................................................................................................................ 11
Left-side cover................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Removing the left-side cover....................................................................................................................................12
Installing the left-side cover...................................................................................................................................... 13
Front cover.......................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Removing the front cover..........................................................................................................................................13
Installing the front cover............................................................................................................................................ 14
Fan shroud........................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Removing the fan shroud........................................................................................................................................... 15
Installing the fan shroud............................................................................................................................................. 16
Memory modules................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Removing the memory modules................................................................................................................................17
Installing the memory modules..................................................................................................................................18
Solid-state drive................................................................................................................................................................. 19
Removing the solid-state drive/Intel Optane........................................................................................................19
Installing the solid-state drive/Intel Optane......................................................................................................... 20
Coin-cell battery................................................................................................................................................................ 22
Removing the coin-cell battery................................................................................................................................22
Installing the coin-cell battery.................................................................................................................................. 22
Wireless card...................................................................................................................................................................... 23
Removing the wireless card...................................................................................................................................... 23
Installing the wireless card........................................................................................................................................ 24
Antenna modules............................................................................................................................................................... 26
Removing the antenna modules...............................................................................................................................26
Installing the antenna modules................................................................................................................................. 27
Graphics card..................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Removing the graphics card..................................................................................................................................... 28
Installing the graphics card....................................................................................................................................... 29
Serial and parallel ports expansion card....................................................................................................................... 31
Removing the serial and parallel ports expansion card....................................................................................... 31
Installing the serial and parallel ports expansion card.........................................................................................32
Power-supply unit............................................................................................................................................................. 34
Removing the power-supply unit.............................................................................................................................34
Contents
Contents 3
Installing the power-supply unit...............................................................................................................................35
Hard drive............................................................................................................................................................................37
Removing the hard drive............................................................................................................................................37
Installing the hard drive..............................................................................................................................................38
Optical drive....................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Removing the optical drive....................................................................................................................................... 40
Installing the optical drive.......................................................................................................................................... 41
Optical-drive bezel............................................................................................................................................................ 42
Removing the optical-drive bezel............................................................................................................................ 42
Installing the optical drive..........................................................................................................................................43
Media-card reader.............................................................................................................................................................43
Removing the media-card reader............................................................................................................................ 43
Installing the media-card reader.............................................................................................................................. 44
Fan and heat-sink assembly............................................................................................................................................45
Removing the fan and heat-sink assembly............................................................................................................45
Installing the fan and heat-sink assembly..............................................................................................................46
Processor.............................................................................................................................................................................47
Removing the processor............................................................................................................................................ 47
Installing the processor..............................................................................................................................................49
System board..................................................................................................................................................................... 50
Removing the system board.....................................................................................................................................50
Installing the system board....................................................................................................................................... 53
Chapter 3: Drivers and downloads............................................................................................... 57
Chapter 4: System setup.............................................................................................................58
Entering BIOS setup program........................................................................................................................................ 58
Navigation keys..................................................................................................................................................................58
Boot Sequence...................................................................................................................................................................58
System setup options.......................................................................................................................................................59
System and setup password...........................................................................................................................................68
Assigning a system setup password....................................................................................................................... 69
Deleting or changing an existing system setup password.................................................................................69
Updating the BIOS............................................................................................................................................................ 69
Updating the BIOS in Windows................................................................................................................................69
Updating the BIOS using the USB drive in Windows..........................................................................................70
Updating the BIOS in Linux and Ubuntu................................................................................................................ 70
Updating the BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu.....................................................................................70
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting......................................................................................................... 72
System diagnostic lights.................................................................................................................................................. 72
Recovering the operating system..................................................................................................................................72
WiFi power cycle................................................................................................................................................................73
Real-Time Clock (RTC Reset)........................................................................................................................................ 73
Diagnostic error messages.............................................................................................................................................. 73
System error messages....................................................................................................................................................76
Chapter 6: Getting help and contacting Dell................................................................................ 77
4Contents
Working inside your computer
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.
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 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.
1
Working inside your computer 5
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.
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.
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.
6Working inside your computer
●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.
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.
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.
Lifting equipment
Adhere to the following guidelines when lifting heavy weight equipment:
CAUTION: Do not lift greater than 50 pounds. Always obtain additional resources or use a mechanical lifting
device.
1. Get a firm balanced footing. Keep your feet apart for a stable base, and point your toes out.
2. Tighten stomach muscles. Abdominal muscles support your spine when you lift, offsetting the force of the load.
3. Lift with your legs, not your back.
4. Keep the load close. The closer it is to your spine, the less force it exerts on your back.
5. Keep your back upright, whether lifting or setting down the load. Do not add the weight of your body to the load. Avoid
twisting your body and back.
6. Follow the same techniques in reverse to set the load down.
Working inside your computer 7
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.
8 Working inside your computer
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:
●Philips screwdriver #1 and #2
●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 Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image
Left-side cover Chassis 6-32, hex head 2
Solid-state drive System board M2x3.5 1
Wireless card System board M2x3.5 1
Antenna modules Chassis M3 2
3.5-inch hard drive Chassis 6-32, pan head 4
VGA-connector cover Chassis 4-40 (captive) 2
NOTE: Only on
computers shipped
with 11th
Generation Intel
Core i5-11400F and
11th Generation
Intel Core
i7-11700Fprocessor
s.
2
Removing and installing components 9
Table 1. Screw list (continued)
Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image
Power-supply unit Chassis 6-32, hex head 3
Optical drive Chassis M2x2 2
Media-card reader Chassis 6-32, pan head 1
I/O-cover door Chassis 6-32, pan head 1
Fan and heat-sink
assembly
System board M3 (captive) 4
System board Chassis 6-32, hex head 8
System board Chassis 6-32, M.2 card
mounting screw
1
10 Removing and installing components
System-board components
Figure 1. System-board components
1. power-button cable connector (PWR SW)
2. media-card reader board connector (SD CARD)
3. coin-cell battery slot
4. system-board power cable connector (ATX SYS)
5. hard-drive data cable connector (SATA0)
6. hard-drive power cable connector (SATA PWR)
7. hard-drive/optical drive data cable connector (SATA3)
8. hard-drive data cable connector (SATA1)
9. M.2 card slot for wireless card (M.2 WLAN)
10. PCIe x16 slot for graphics card (SLOT3)
11. PCIe x1 expansion slot (SLOT1)
12. M.2 2230/2280 card slot for solid-state drive (M.2 SSD PCIE2)
13. processor slot
Removing and installing components 11
14. processor-power cable connector (ATX CPU)
15. memory-module slot (DIMM 1)
16. memory-module slot (DIMM 2)
Left-side cover
Removing the left-side cover
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the left-side cover and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the two thumb screws (6-32) that secure the left-side cover to the chassis.
2. Using the tab on the left-side cover, slide the cover towards the back of the computer and remove the left-side cover off
the chassis.
12 Removing and installing components
Installing the left-side cover
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the left-side cover and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Steps
1. Align the tabs on the left-side cover with the slots on the chassis, and slide it towards the front of the computer.
2. Replace the two thumb screws (6-32) that secure the left-side cover to the chassis.
Next steps
1. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Front cover
Removing the front cover
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
Removing and installing components 13
2. Remove the left-side cover.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the front cover and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Gently pry and release the front-cover tabs sequentially from the top.
2. Rotate the front cover outward from the chassis.
3. Remove the front cover from the chassis.
Installing the front cover
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the front cover and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
14 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Align and insert the front-cover tabs with the slots on the chassis.
2. Rotate the front cover towards the chassis and snap it into place.
Next steps
1. Install the left-side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Fan shroud
Removing the fan shroud
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the fan shroud and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 15
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its left side facing up.
2. Press on both securing clips to release the fan shroud from the fan and heat-sink assembly.
3. Slide and lift the fan shroud off the system board.
Installing the fan shroud
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the fan shroud and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
16 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Slide and put the fan shroud into place on the fan and heat-sink assembly and snap it into place.
2. Place the computer in an upright position.
Next steps
1. Install the left-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 left-side cover.
Removing and installing components 17
About this task
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges. Do not touch the
components on the memory module.
NOTE: Note the slot and the orientation of the memory module in order to install the replacement in the correct slot.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the memory modules and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its left side facing up.
2. Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing-clips on each end of the memory-module slot.
3. Grasp the memory module near the securing clip, and then gently ease the memory module out of the memory-module slot.
NOTE: Repeat step 2 to step 3 to remove any other memory modules installed in your computer.
NOTE: If the memory module is difficult to remove, gently ease the memory module back and forth to remove it from
the slot.
Installing the memory modules
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges. Do not touch the
components on the memory module.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the memory modules and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
18 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Ensure that the securing clips are in an open position.
2. Align the notch on the memory module with the tab on the memory-module slot.
3. Insert the memory module into the memory-module connector until the memory module snaps into position and the securing
clip locks in place.
NOTE: The securing clips return to the locked position. If you do not hear the click, remove the memory module and
reinstall it.
NOTE: Repeat step 1 to step 3 when installing more than one memory module in your computer.
4. Place the computer in an upright position.
Next steps
1. Install the left-side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Solid-state drive
Removing the solid-state drive/Intel Optane
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
About this task
NOTE: Depending on the configuration ordered your computer may come with one of the following modules installed:
●M.2 2230 solid-state drive
Removing and installing components 19
●M.2 2280 solid-state drive
The following image(s) indicate the location of the solid-state drive/Intel Optane and provides a visual representation of the
removal procedure.
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its left side facing up.
2. Remove the screw (M2x3.5) that secures the solid-state drive to the system board.
3. Slide and lift the solid-state drive from the M.2 card slot on the system board.
Installing the solid-state drive/Intel Optane
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: You may install the following supported modules on your computer's M.2 card slot:
20 Removing and installing components
●M.2 2230 solid-state drive
●M.2 2280 solid-state drive
The following image(s) indicate the location of the solid-state drive/Intel Optane and provides a visual representation of the
installation procedure.
Steps
1. Locate the notch on the solid-state drive.
2. Align the notch on the solid-state drive with the tab on the M.2 card slot.
3. Slide the solid-state drive into the M.2 card slot on the system board.
4. Replace the screw (M2x3.5) that secures the solid-state drive/Intel Optane to the system board.
5. Place the computer in an upright position.
Next steps
1. Install the left-side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing and installing components 21
Coin-cell battery
Removing the coin-cell battery
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
About this task
NOTE: Removing the coin-cell battery resets the BIOS setup program's settings to default. It is recommended that you
note the BIOS setup program's settings before removing the battery.
NOTE: After a service incident where the system board is replaced, or when the coin-cell battery is replaced an RTC reset
cycle will occur. When an RTC Reset cycle occurs, the computer turns on and off three times. An "Invalid Configuration"
error message is displayed prompting you to enter the BIOS and configure the date and time. The computer starts
functioning normally after setting the date and time.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the coin-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its left side facing up.
2. Using a plastic scribe, push the coin-cell battery securing-clip on the coin-cell battery socket to release the coin-cell battery
out of the slot on the system board.
3. Lift the coin-cell battery off its slot on the system board.
Installing the coin-cell battery
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
22 Removing and installing components
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the coin-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Steps
1. Insert the coin-cell battery into its slot on the system board with the positive side (+) label facing up.
2. Press down and snap the coin-cell battery into the slot on the system board.
3. Place the computer in an upright position.
Next steps
1. Install the left-side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Wireless card
Removing the wireless card
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the wireless card and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 23
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its left side facing up.
2. Remove the screw (M2x4) that secures the wireless card to the system board.
3. Slide and lift the wireless-card bracket off the wireless card.
4. Disconnect the antenna cables from the wireless card.
5. Slide and remove the wireless card at an angle from the wireless-card slot.
Installing the wireless card
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the wireless card and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
24 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Connect the antenna cables to the wireless card.
The following table provides the antenna-cable color scheme for the wireless card that is supported by 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. Slide and place the wireless-card bracket on the wireless card.
3. Align the notch on the wireless card with the tab on the wireless-card slot.
4. Slide the wireless card at an angle into the wireless-card slot.
5. Replace the screw (M2x4) that secures the wireless card to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the left-side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing and installing components 25
Antenna modules
Removing the antenna modules
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
3. Remove the front cover.
4. Remove the wireless card.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the antenna modules and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the two screws (M3) that secure the antenna modules to the chassis.
26 Removing and installing components
2. Route the antenna cables through the routing guides on the chassis.
3. Peel the antenna modules off the chassis.
Installing the antenna modules
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the antenna modules and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Steps
1. Place the antenna modules into the slots on the chassis.
2. Replace the two screws (M3) that secure the antenna modules to the chassis.
3. Route the antenna cables through the routing guides on the chassis and thread the cables through the slot on the chassis.
Removing and installing components 27
Next steps
1. Install the wireless card.
2. Install the front cover.
3. Install the left-side cover.
4. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Graphics card
Removing the graphics card
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the graphics card and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
28 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its left side facing up.
2. Locate the graphics card installed in the PCIe x16 card slot.
3. Lift the pull tab and open the expansion-card door.
4. Push and hold the securing tab on the graphics-card slot and lift the graphics card from the PCIe x16 card slot.
Installing the graphics card
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
Removing and installing components 29
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the graphics card and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Steps
1. Align the graphics card with the PCIe x16 card slot on the system board.
2. Using the alignment post, insert the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is firmly seated.
3. Close the expansion-card door.
4. Place the computer in an upright position.
Next steps
1. Install the left-side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
30 Removing and installing components
Serial and parallel ports expansion card
Removing the serial and parallel ports expansion card
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the serial and parallel ports expansion card and provides a visual representation
of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 31
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its left side facing up.
2. Locate the serial and parallel ports expansion card that is installed in the PCIe x1 card slot.
3. Lift the pull tab and open the expansion-card door.
4. Lift the serial and parallel ports expansion card from the PCIe x1 card slot.
Installing the serial and parallel ports expansion card
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the serial and parallel ports expansion card and provides a visual representation
of the installation procedure.
32 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Align the serial and parallel ports expansion card with the PCIe x1 card slot on the system board.
2. Using the alignment post, insert the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is firmly seated.
3. Close the expansion-card door.
4. Place the computer in an upright position.
Next steps
1. Install the left-side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing and installing components 33
Power-supply unit
Removing the power-supply unit
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the power-supply unit and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
34 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its left side facing up.
2. Remove the three screws (6-32) that secure the power supply to the chassis.
3. Disconnect the power-supply unit cables from the system board.
NOTE: The power-supply unit cables are connected to the system board at two locations and supply power to the
following components at the two locations:
●Processor
●System board
4. Remove the power-supply cables from the routing guides on the chassis.
5. Press down on the securing clip to release the power supply from the chassis.
6. Slide and lift the power supply from its slot on the chassis.
Installing the power-supply unit
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
Removing and installing components 35
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the power-supply unit and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
36 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Route the power-supply unit cables into the routing guides on the chassis.
2. Connect the power-supply unit cables to the two connectors on the system board.
NOTE: The power-supply unit cables are connected to the system board at two locations and supply power to the
following components at the two locations:
●Processor
●System board
3. Place and slide the power-supply unit into its slot on the chassis.
4. Replace the three screws (6-32) that secure the power-supply unit to the chassis.
5. Place the computer in an upright position.
Next steps
1. Install the left-side cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Hard drive
Removing the hard drive
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
3. Remove the front cover.
Removing and installing components 37
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the hard drive and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its left side facing up.
CAUTION: Hold the hard drive in place when removing the screws that secure the hard drive to the chassis to
prevent the hard drive from falling from place and damaging your computer.
2. Disconnect the hard-drive power cable and hard-drive data cable.
3. Remove the four screws (6-32) that secure the hard drive to the chassis.
4. Lift the hard drive off the chassis.
Installing the hard drive
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
38 Removing and installing components
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the hard drive and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Hold the hard drive into place on the chassis and align the screw holes on the hard drive with the screw holes on the chassis.
2. Connect the hard-drive power cable and hard-drive data cable to the hard drive.
3. Replace the four screws (6-32) that secure the hard drive to the chassis.
Next steps
1. Install the front cover.
2. Install the left-side cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing and installing components 39
Optical drive
Removing the optical drive
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the front cover.
3. Remove the left-side cover.
About this task
NOTE: These steps are only applicable for computers that are shipped with the optional optical drive.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the optical drive and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its left side facing up.
2. Disconnect the optical-drive power cable from the optical drive.
3. Disconnect the optical-drive data cable from the optical drive.
40 Removing and installing components
4. Remove the two screws (M2x2) that secure the optical drive to the chassis.
5. Slide and lift the optical drive from its slot on the chassis.
6. Remove the optical drive bezel.
Installing the optical drive
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: When installing the optional optical drive, ensure that the front cover of your computer has the slot for it.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the optical drive and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Steps
1. Install the optical drive bezel.
2. Slide and replace the optical drive into its slot on the chassis.
3. Align the screw holes on the optical drive with the screw holes on the chassis.
Removing and installing components 41
4. Replace the two screws (M2x2) that secure the optical drive to the chassis.
5. Connect the optical-drive power cable to the connector on the optical drive.
6. Connect the optical-drive data cable to the connector on the optical drive.
Next steps
1. Install the left-side cover.
2. Install the front cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Optical-drive bezel
Removing the optical-drive bezel
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
3. Remove the front cover.
4. Remove the optical drive.
About this task
NOTE: These steps are only applicable for computers that are shipped with the optional optical drive.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the optical-drive bezel and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
Pry and lift the optical-drive bezel from the optical drive.
42 Removing and installing components
Installing the optical drive
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: When installing the optional optical drive, ensure that the front cover of your computer has the slot for it.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the optical-drive bezel and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Steps
1. Place the optical-drive bezel on the optical drive, aligning the hooks on the optical-drive bezel with the slots on the optical
drive.
2. Press down on the optical-drive bezel to secure it into place on the optical drive.
Next steps
1. Install the optical drive.
2. Install the front cover.
3. Install the left-side cover.
4. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Media-card reader
Removing the media-card reader
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
Removing and installing components 43
3. Remove the front cover.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the media-card reader and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the screw (6-32) that secures the media-card reader to the chassis.
2. Slide and lift the media-card reader from the slot on the chassis.
Installing the media-card reader
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following image(s) indicate the location of the media-card reader and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
44 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Connect the media-card reader into its slot on the chassis.
2. Replace the screw (6-32) that secures the media-card reader to the chassis.
Next steps
1. Install the front cover.
2. Install the left-side cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Fan and heat-sink assembly
Removing the fan and heat-sink assembly
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
3. Remove the fan shroud.
Removing and installing components 45
About this task
WARNING: The heat sink may become hot during normal operation. Allow sufficient time for the heat sink to
cool before you touch it.
CAUTION: For maximum cooling of the processor, do not touch the heat transfer areas on the heat sink. The oils
in your skin can reduce the heat transfer capability of the thermal grease.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the fan and heat-sink assembly and provides a visual representation of the
removal procedure.
Steps
1. Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.
2. In a reverse sequential order (4>3>2>1) loosen the four captive screws (M3) that secure the fan and heat-sink assembly to
the system board.
3. Lift the fan and heat-sink assembly off the system board.
Installing the fan and heat-sink assembly
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: If either the processor or the fan and heat-sink assembly is replaced, use the thermal grease provided in the kit to
ensure that thermal conductivity is achieved.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the fan and heat-sink assembly and provides a visual representation of the
installation procedure.
46 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Gently place the fan and heat-sink assembly on the processor.
2. Align the screw holes on the fan and heat-sink assembly with the screw holes on the system board.
3. In sequential order (1>2>3>4) tighten the four captive screws (M3) that secure the fan and heat-sink assembly to the
system board.
4. Connect the fan cable to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the fan shroud.
2. Install the left-side cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Processor
Removing the processor
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the left-side cover.
3. Remove the fan shroud.
4. Remove the fan and heat-sink assembly.
Removing and installing components 47
About this task
CAUTION: The processor may become hot during normal operation. Allow sufficient time for the heat sink to
cool before you touch it.
CAUTION: For maximum cooling of the processor, do not touch the heat transfer areas on the heat sink. The oils
in your skin can reduce the heat transfer capability of the thermal grease.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the processor and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Lay the computer with its right side facing down.
2. Press the release lever down and then push it away from the processor to release it from the securing tab.
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. Extend the release lever completely and open the processor cover.
4. Gently lift the processor from the processor socket on the system board.
48 Removing and installing components
Installing the processor
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: If either the processor or the fan and heat-sink assembly is replaced, use the thermal grease provided in the kit to
ensure that thermal conductivity is achieved.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the processor and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Ensure that the release lever on the processor socket is fully extended in the open position.
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. Align the notches on the processor with the tabs on the processor socket and place the processor in the processor socket
on the system board.
Removing and installing components 49
NOTE: Ensure that the processor-cover notch is positioned underneath the alignment post.
3. When the processor is fully seated in the socket, pivot the release-lever down and place it under the tab on the processor
cover.
Next steps
1. Install the fan and heat-sink assembly.
2. Install the fan shroud.
3. Install the left-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 left-side cover.
3. Remove the front cover.
4. Remove the fan shroud.
5. Remove the solid-state drive.
6. Remove the wireless card.
7. Remove the hard drive.
8. Remove the graphics card.
9. Remove the media-card reader.
10. Remove the fan and heat-sink assembly.
11. Remove the processor.
About this task
NOTE: For computers that are shipped with 11th Generation Intel Core i5-11400F and 11th Generation Intel Core i7-11700F
processors, a VGA-connector cover is installed over the VGA connector, and a HDMI-port cover is installed over the HDMI
port.
NOTE: Your computer's Service Tag is stored in the system board. You must enter the Service Tag in the BIOS setup
program after you replace the system board.
NOTE: Replacing the system board removes any changes you have made to the BIOS using the BIOS setup program. You
must make the appropriate changes again after you replace the system board.
NOTE: After a service incident where the system board is replaced, an RTC reset cycle will occur. When an RTC Reset
cycle occurs, the computer turns on and off three times. An "Invalid Configuration" error message is displayed prompting
you to enter the BIOS and configure the date and time. The computer starts functioning normally after setting the date and
time.
NOTE: Before disconnecting the cables from the system board, note the location of the connectors so that you can
reconnect the cables correctly after you replace the system board.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the system board and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
50 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 51
52 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Remove the two screws (6-32) that secure the front I/O bracket to the chassis.
2. Remove the front I/O bracket from the chassis.
3. Disconnect the following cables from the system board. Refer to the system-board components for more information about
the respective connectors of the following cables.
●power-supply unit cables
●hard-drive cable
●optical drive cable
●power-button cable
4. Remove the eight screws (6-32) that secure the system board to the chassis.
5. Lift the system board at an angle and remove it from the chassis.
Installing the system board
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: For computers that are shipped with 11th Generation Intel Core i5-11400F and 11th Generation Intel Core i7-11700F
processors, a VGA-connector cover is installed over the VGA connector, and a HDMI-port cover is installed over the HDMI
port.
Removing and installing components 53
NOTE: Your computer's Service Tag is stored in the system board. You must enter the Service Tag in the BIOS setup
program after you replace the system board.
NOTE: Replacing the system board removes any changes you have made to the BIOS using the BIOS setup program. You
must make the appropriate changes again after you replace the system board.
NOTE: If either the processor or the fan and heat-sink assembly is replaced, use the thermal grease provided in the kit to
ensure that thermal conductivity is achieved.
The following image(s) indicate the location of the system board and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
54 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Slide the front I/O-ports on the system board into the front I/O-slots on the chassis and align the screw holes on the
system board with the screw holes on the chassis.
2. Replace the eight screws (6-32) that secure the system board to the chassis.
3. Connect the following cables to the system board. Refer to the system-board components for more information about the
respective connectors of the following cables.
Removing and installing components 55
●power-supply cables
●hard-drive cable
●power-button cable
4. Align the front I/O bracket to the front I/O ports and the screw holes on the chassis.
5. Replace the two screws that secure the front I/O bracket to the chassis.
Next steps
1. Install the processor.
2. Install the fan and heat-sink assembly.
3. Install the media-card reader.
4. Install the graphics card.
5. Install the hard drive.
6. Install the wireless card.
7. Install the solid-state drive.
8. Install the fan shroud.
9. Install the front cover.
10. Install the left-side cover.
11. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
56 Removing and installing components
System 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.
Entering BIOS setup program
About this task
Turn on (or restart) your computer and press F2 immediately.
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.
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.
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.
Boot Sequence
Boot Sequence allows you to bypass the System Setup–defined boot device order and boot directly to a specific device (for
example: optical drive or hard drive). During the Power-on Self Test (POST), when the Dell logo appears, you can:
●Access System Setup by pressing F2 key
●Bring up the one-time boot menu by pressing F12 key
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)
4
58 System setup
NOTE: XXX denotes the SATA drive number.
●Optical Drive (if available)
●SATA Hard Drive (if available)
●Diagnostics
NOTE: Choosing Diagnostics, will display the diagnostics screen.
The boot sequence screen also displays the option to access the System Setup screen.
System setup options
NOTE: Depending on this computer and its installed devices, the items listed in this section may or may not appear.
Table 3. System setup options—System information menu
Overview
Inspiron 3891
BIOS Version Displays the BIOS version number.
Service Tag Displays the Service Tag of the computer.
Asset Tag Displays the Asset Tag of the computer.
Manufacture Date Displays the manufacture date of the computer.
Ownership Date Displays the ownership date of the computer.
Express Service Code Displays the express service code of the computer.
Ownership Tag Displays the ownership tag of the computer.
Signed Firmware Update Displays whether the signed firmware update is enabled.
PROCESSOR
Processor Type Displays the processor type.
Maximum Clock Speed Displays the maximum processor clock speed.
Minimum Clock Speed Displays the minimum processor clock speed.
Current Clock Speed Displays the current processor clock speed.
Core Count Displays the number of cores on the processor.
Processor ID Displays the processor identification code.
Processor L2 Cache Displays the Processor L2 Cache size.
Processor L3 Cache Displays the Processor L2 Cache size.
Microcode Version Displays the microcode version of the processor.
Intel® Hyper-Threading Capable Displays whether the processor is Hyper-Threading (HT) capable.
64-Bit Technology Displays whether 64-bit technology is used.
MEMORY
Memory Installed Displays the total computer memory installed.
Memory Available Displays the total computer memory available.
Memory Speed Displays the memory speed.
Memory Channel Mode Displays single or dual channel mode.
Memory Technology Displays the technology used for the memory.
DIMM 1 Size Displays the DIMM 1 memory size.
DIMM 2 Size Displays the DIMM 2 memory size.
System setup 59
Table 3. System setup options—System information menu (continued)
Overview
DEVICES
Video Controller Displays the video controller type of the computer.
Video Memory Displays the video memory information of the computer.
Wi-Fi Device Displays the wireless device information of the computer.
Native Resolution Displays the native resolution of the computer.
Video BIOS Version Displays the video BIOS version of the computer.
Audio Controller Displays the audio controller information of the computer.
Bluetooth Device Displays the Bluetooth device information of the computer.
LOM MAC Address Displays the LOM MAC address of the computer.
Slot 2 Displays the status of the expansion slot (Slot 2) of the computer.
Slot 3 Displays the status of the expansion slot (Slot 3) of the computer.
Table 4. System setup options—Boot Configuration menu
Boot Configuration
Boot Sequence
Boot Mode: UEFI only Displays the boot mode of this computer.
Boot Sequence Specifies the order that the BIOS searches the list of devices to find an
operating system to boot.
By default, UEFI Hard Drive 2 is selected
By default, Windows Boot Manager is selected
By default, UEFI Hard Drive is selected
By default, ONBOARD NIC (IPV4) is selected
By default, ONBOARD NIC (IPV6) is selected
By default, UEFI HTTPS Boost is selected
Secure Boot
Enable Secure Boot Enables secure boot using only validated boot software.
Default: OFF
Secure Boot Mode Modifies the behavior of Secure Boot to allow evaluation or enforcement of
UEFI driver signatures. Deployed Mode should be selected for normal operation
of Secure Boot.
By default, Deployed Mode is selected.
Expert Key Management
Enable Custom Mode Allows the PK, KEK, db, and dbx security key databases to be modified.
Default: OFF
NOTE: If Custom Mode is not enabled, any changes made with respect to
the keys will not be saved.
Custom Mode Key Management Allows for selection of key database.
●Save to File will save the key to a user-selected file.
●Replace from File will replace the current key with a key from a user-
selected file.
●Append from File will add a key to the current database from a user-
selected file.
●Delete will delete the selected key.
60 System setup
Table 4. System setup options—Boot Configuration menu (continued)
Boot Configuration
●Reset All Keys will reset all four keys to their default settings.
By default, PK security key database is selected.
By default, Save to File is selected.
Table 5. System setup options—Integrated Devices menu
Integrated Devices
Date/Time
Date Sets the computer date in MM/DD/YYYY format. Changes to the date take
effect immediately.
Time Sets the computer time in HH/MM/SS 24-hour format. You can switch
between 12-hour and 24-hour clock. Changes to the time take effect
immediately.
Camera
Enable Camera Enables or disables the camera.
By default, Enable Camera is selected.
Audio Enables or disables all integrated audio controller.
Default: ON
Enable Microphone Enables or disables microphone.
By default, Enable Microphone is selected.
Enable Internal Speaker Enables or disables internal speaker.
By default, Enable Internal Speaker is selected.
USB Configuration Enables or disables booting from USB mass storage devices such as external
hard drive, optical drive, and USB drive.
By default, Enable Front USB Ports is selected.
By default, Enable Rear USB Ports is selected.
By default, Enable USB Boot Support is selected.
Front USB Configuration Enables or disables individual USB ports.
By default, Front Port 1 (Bottom Left)* is selected.
By default, Front Port 2 (Bottom Right)* is selected.
By default, Front Port 3 (Top Left) is selected.
By default, Front Port 5 (Top Right) is selected.
* Denotes a USB 3.0-capable port
NOTE: USB keyboard and mouse always work in the BIOS setup
irrespective of this setting.
Rear USB Configuration Enables or disables individual USB ports.
By default, Rear Port 1 (Top Left)* is selected.
By default, Rear Port 2 (Top Right)* is selected.
By default, Rear Port 3 (Bottom Left) is selected.
By default, Rear Port 5 (Bottom Right) is selected.
* Denotes a USB 3.0-capable port
System setup 61
Table 5. System setup options—Integrated Devices menu (continued)
Integrated Devices
NOTE: USB keyboard and mouse always work in the BIOS setup
irrespective of this setting.
Table 6. System setup options—Storage menu
Storage
SATA Operation
SATA Operation Configures operating mode of the integrated storage device controller.
Default: RAID On. Storage device is configured to support RAID. (Intel® Rapid
Restore Technology)
Storage Interface
Port Enablement Enables or disables the onboard drives.
Default: SATA-0 is ON
Default: SATA-1 is ON
Default: SATA-3 is ON
Default: M.2 PCIe SDD-0 is ON
SMART Reporting Enable or disable SMART Reporting during system startup.
Default: OFF
Drive Information Displays the information of various onboard drives.
Enable MediaCard Turn on or off all media cards, or enable or disable the media card in read-only
state.
By default, Secure Digital (SD) Card is selected.
Table 7. System setup options—Display menu
Display
Primary Display
Video Primary Display Set or change the primary video controller when multi controllers are available
in the system.
By default, Auto is selected.
Brightness on battery power Sets the screen brightness when the computer is running on battery power.
Default: 50
Full Screen Logo
Full Screen Logo Displays the full screen logo if the screen resolution matches the image of the
logo.
Default: OFF
Table 8. System setup options—Connection menu
Connection
Network Controller Configuration
Integrated NIC Controls the onboard LAN controller.
By default, Enable with PXE is selected.
Wireless Device Enable
WLAN Enables or disables the internal WLAN device.
62 System setup
Table 8. System setup options—Connection menu (continued)
Connection
Default: ON
Bluetooth® Enables or disables the internal Bluetooth® device.
Default: ON
Enable UEFI Network Stack
Enable UEFI Network Stack Enable or disable UEFI Network Stack.
Default: ON
HTTP(s) Boot Feature Enables or disables internal speaker.
By default, Enable Internal Speaker is selected.
HTTP(s) Boot Enables or disables HTTP(s) Boot Feature.
Default: ON
HTTP(s) Boot Modes Configure the HTTP(s) Boot Mode. Auto Mode will extract Boot URL from
the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). Manual mode reads user-
provided Boot URL.
By default, Auto Mode is selected.
Table 9. System setup options—Power menu
Power
USB Wake Support
Enable USB Wake Support Enables USB devices like a mouse or keyboard to wake the system from
Standby, Hibernation, or Power Off state.
Default: ON
AC Behavior
AC Recovery Configures the system response when power is restored after an unexpected
loss of power.
Default: Power OFF is selected. System stays off after AC power is restored.
Active State Power Management
ASPM Configures the Active State Power Management (ASPM) level.
Default: Auto. There is handshaking between the device and PCI Express hub
to determine the best ASPM mode supported by the device.
Block Sleep
Block Sleep Blocks the computer from entering Sleep (S3) mode in the operating system.
Default: OFF
Deep Sleep Control
Deep Sleep Control Configures how aggressive the system is at conserving power while in
Shutdown (S5) or Hibernate (S4) mode.
Default: Enabled in S4 and S5
Intel Speed Shift Technology
Intel Speed Shift Technology Enables or disables the Intel Speed Shift Technology support. Turning on
this option allows the operating system to select the appropriate processor
performance automatically.
Default: ON
System setup 63
Table 10. System setup options—Security menu
Security
Intel® Platform Trust Technology
Intel Platform Trust Technology On Enable or disable the Intel Platform Trust Technology (PPT) visibility to the
operating system.
PPI ByPass for Clear Commands Enable or disable the TPM Physical Presence Interface (PPI). When enabled,
this setting will allow the OS to skip BIOS PPI user prompts when issuing the
Clear command. Changes to this setting take effect immediately.
Default: Disabled
Clear Enable or disable the Intel Platform Trust Technology (PPT) owner
information. When enabled, this setting will reset the PPT to its default state.
Changes to this setting take effect after exiting the BIOS setup menu.
Default: Disabled
SMM Security Mitigation
SMM Security Mitigation Enable or disable additional SMM Security Mitigation protection. The operating
system makes use of this feature to protect the secure environment crated by
virtualization-based security.
Default: OFF
Data Wipe on Next Boot
Start Data Wipe Enable or disable data wipe cycle. If enabled, the BIOS will schedule a data
wipe cycle for storage device(s) connected to the motherboard on the next
reboot. Any data on the storage device(s) cannot be recovered after this
Secure Wipe Operation.
Default: OFF
Absolute® Enable or disable the BIOS module interface of the optional Absolute
Persistence Module service from Absolute® Software.
Default: Enable Absolute
UEFI Boot Path Security
UEFI Boot Path Security Configures whether the system will prompt the user for the admin password (if
set) when booting to a UEFI boot path device from the F12 boot menu.
Default: Always Except Internal HDD is selected
Admin Password Set, change, or delete the administrator password.
System Password Set, change, or delete the system password.
Internal HDD-0 Password Set, change, or delete the internal hard-disk drive password.
Password Configuration Control the minimum and maximum number of characters allowed for Admin
and System passwords.
Password Change Enable or disable changes to the System and Hard Disk passwords when an
administrator password is set.
UEFI Capsule Firmware Updates Enable or disable BIOS updates through UEFI capsule update packages.
PTT Security
PTT On Enable or disable Platform Trust Technology (PTT) visibility to the operating
system.
Clear Default: Disabled
PPI ByPass for Clear Commands Enable or disable the TPM Physical Presence Interface (PPI). When enabled,
this setting will allow the OS to skip BIOS PPI user prompts when issuing the
Clear command. Changes to this setting take effect immediately.
64 System setup
Table 10. System setup options—Security menu (continued)
Security
Default: Disabled
Absolute® Enable or disable the BIOS module interface of the optional Absolute
Persistence Module service from Absolute® Software.
Default: Enable Absolute
Admin Setup Lockout Enable to prevent users from entering Setup when an Admin Password is set.
Master Password Lockout Disables the master password support. Hard Disk passwords need to be
cleared before changing the setting.
SMM Security Mitigation Enable or disable SMM Security Mitigation
Table 11. System setup options—Passwords menu
Passwords
Admin Password Enables the user to set, change, or delete the administrator (admin) password.
The admin password enables several security features
System Password Enables the user to set, change, or delete the system password.
Password Configuration
Upper Case Letter Enforces password restriction that the password must contain at least one
upper case letter.
Default: OFF
Lower Case Letter Enforces password restriction that the password must contain at least one
lower case letter.
Default: OFF
Digit Enforces password restriction that the password must contain at least one
digit.
Default: OFF
Special Character Enforces password restriction that the password must contain at least one
special character.
Default: OFF
Minimum Characters Controls the minimum number of characters allowed for password.
Default: 04
Password Changes
Enable Non-Admin Password Changes Enables or disables the user to change the system and hard drive password
without the need for admin password.
Default: ON
Master Password Lockout
Enable Master Password Lockout Enables or disables master password support.
Allow Non-Admin PSID Revert
Enable Allow Non-Admin PSID Revert Enables or disables Physical Security ID (PSID) revert of NVMe storage drives
from the Dell Security Manager prompt.
Default: Disabled
NOTE: When disabled, the PSID revert is protected by the BIOS Admin
password (if set), and the user will be prompted for the password before
the revert is performed
System setup 65
Table 12. System setup options—Update,Recovery menu
Update,Recovery
UEFI Capsule Firmware Updates
Enable UEFI Capsule Firmware Updates Enables or disables BIOS updates through UEFI capsule update packages.
Default: ON
BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive
BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive Enables the computer to recover from certain corrupted BIOS conditions from
a recovery file on the user primary hard drive or an external USB key.
Default: ON
NOTE: BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive is not available for Self-encrypting
drives (SED).
BIOS Downgrade
Allow BIOS Downgrade Controls flashing of the system firmware to previous revisions.
Default: ON
SupportAssist OS Recovery
SupportAssist OS Recovery Enables or disables the boot flow for SupportAssist OS Recovery tool, in the
event of certain system errors.
Default: ON
BIOSConnect
BIOSConnect Enables or disables cloud Service OS recovery if the main OS fails to boot
within the number of failures equal or greater than the value specified by
Dell Auto OS Recovery Threshold, and local Service does not boot, or is not
installed.
Default: ON
Dell Auto OS Recovery Threshold
Dell Auto OS Recovery Threshold Controls the automatic boot flow for SupportAssist System Resolution Console
and for Dell operating system Recovery tool.
Default: 2.
Table 13. System setup options—System Management menu
System Management
Service Tag PubTbl cell border-right-style="none"Displays the Service Tag of the
computer.
Asset Tag Creates a system Asset Tag that can be used by an IT administrator to
uniquely identify a particular system. Once set in BIOS, the Asset Tag cannot
be changed.
Wake on LAN/WLAN
Wake on LAN/WLAN Enables the computer to be powered on by special LAN signals.
Default: Disabled
Auto On Time
Auto On Time Controls automatic powering up of system for defined days and times.
Default: Disabled
SERR Messages
Enable SERR Messages Enables or disables SERR message mechanism. Some graphics cards require
that SERR message mechanism be disabled.
66 System setup
Table 13. System setup options—System Management menu (continued)
System Management
Default: ON
First Power On Date
Set Ownership Date Enable or disable setting of Ownership date.
Default: OFF
Table 14. System setup options—Keyboard menu
Keyboard
Keyboard Errors
Enable Keyboard Error Detection Enables or disables report of keyboard-related errors when the computer
boots.
Default: ON
Numlock LED
Enable Numlock LED Enables or disables Numlock when the computer boots.
Default: ON
Table 15. System setup options—Pre-boot Behavior menu
Pre-boot Behavior
Warnings and Errors
Warnings and Errors Selects an action on encountering a warning or error during boot.
Default: Prompt on Warnings and Errors. Stop, prompt, and wait for user input
when warnings or errors are detected.
NOTE: Errors deemed critical to the operation of the computer hardware
will always halt the computer.
Fastboot
Fastboot Configures the speed of the UEFI boot process.
Default: Thorough. Performs complete hardware and configuration initialization
during boot.
Extend BIOS POST Time
Extend BIOS POST Time Configures the BIOS POST (Power-On Self-Test) load time.
Default: 0 seconds
Table 16. System setup options—Virtualization menu
Virtualization
Intel Virtualization Technology
Enable Intel Virtualization Technology
(VT)
Enables the computer to run a virtual machine monitor (VMM).
Default: ON
VT for Direct I/O
Enable Intel VT for Direct I/O Enables the computer to perform Virtualization Technology for Direct I/O (VT-
d). VT-d is an Intel method that provides virtualization for memory map I/O.
Default: ON
System setup 67
Table 17. System setup options—Performance menu
Performance
Multi-Core Support
Active Cores CPU core disabling is not supported with current BIOS version. Changes the
number of CPU cores available to the operating system. The default value is
set to the maximum number of cores.
Default: All Cores
Intel® SpeedStep
Enable Intel SpeedStep Technology Enables or disables the Intel SpeedStep Technology to dynamically adjust
processor voltage and core frequency, decreasing average power consumption
and heat production.
Default: ON
C-States Control
Enable C-State Control Enables or disables the CPU's ability to enter and exit low-power states.
Default: ON
Intel Turbo Boost Technology
Enable Intel® Turbo Boost Technology Enabled or disabled the Intel TurboBoost mode of the processor. If enabled,
the Intel TurboBoost driver increases the performance of the CPU or graphics
processor.
Default: ON
Intel Hyper-Threading Technology
Enable Intel Hyper-Threading Technology Enabled or disabled the Intel Hyper-Threading mode of the processor. If
enabled, the Intel Hyper-Threading increases the efficiency of the processor
resources when multiple threads run on each core.
Default: ON
Table 18. System setup options—System Logs menu
System Logs
BIOS Event Log
Clear Bios Event Log Select keep or clear BIOS events.
Default: Keep
System and setup password
Table 19. System and setup password
Password type Description
System password Password that you must enter to log on 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 stored on your computer if it is not locked and left unattended.
68 System setup
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.
●The password can contain the numbers 0 through 9.
●Only lower case letters are valid, upper case letters are not valid.
●Only the following special characters are valid: Space, (”), (+), (,), (-), (.), (/), (;), ([), (\), (]), (`).
3. Type the system password that you entered earlier in the Confirm new password field and click OK.
4. Press Esc and a message prompt's you to save the changes.
5. Press Y to save the changes.
The computer restarts.
Deleting or changing an existing system setup password
For this computer, the password clear feature is not performed with the service jumper. Instead, this function is accomplished
through the power button.
The Master System Password is used to clear the admin and system password.
Note the code that appears on your locked computer's screen that is generated by hashing the computer's service tag. Dell
customer support representative requires this code to generate the Master System password. Contact Dell customer support
for receiving more assistance on resetting the system setup password.
Updating the BIOS
Updating the BIOS in Windows
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.
System setup 69
For more information, see knowledge base article 000124211 at www.dell.com/support.
Updating the BIOS using the USB drive in Windows
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 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 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
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.
70 System setup
4. Select external USB device.
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 setup 71
Troubleshooting
System diagnostic lights
Power-supply diagnostics light
Indicates the power-supply state.
Hard-drive activity light
Turns on when the computer reads from or writes to the hard drive.
Table 20. LED codes
Diagnostic light codes Problem description
1,1 TPM detection failure
1,2 Unrecoverable SPI flash failure
2,1 CPU failure
2,2 Motherboard, covers BIOS corruption or ROM error
2,3 No Memory/RAM detected
2,4 Memory/RAM failure
2,5 Invalid memory installed
2,6 Motherboard/chipset error
3,1 CMOS battery failure
3,2 PCI of Video card/chip failure
3,3 Recovery Image not found
3,4 Recovery Image found but invalid
3,5 EC ran into power sequencing failure
3,6 Flash corruption detected by SBIOS
3,7 Timeout waiting on ME to reply to HECI message
4,1 Memory DIMM power rail failure
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.
5
72 Troubleshooting
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.
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.
Real-Time Clock (RTC Reset)
The Real Time Clock (RTC) reset function allows you or the service technician to recover Dell Inspiron, systems from No
POST/No Power/No Boot situations. The legacy jumper enabled RTC reset has been retired on these models.
Start the RTC reset with the system powered off and connected to AC power. Press and hold the power button for thirty (30)
seconds. The system RTC Reset occurs after you release the power button.
Diagnostic error messages
Table 21. Diagnostic error messages
Error messages Description
AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE The touchpad or external mouse may be faulty. For an
external mouse, check the cable connection. Enable the
Pointing Device option in the System Setup program.
BAD COMMAND OR FILE NAME Ensure that you have spelled the command correctly, put
spaces in the proper place, and used the correct path name.
CACHE DISABLED DUE TO FAILURE The primary cache internal to the microprocessor has failed.
Contact Dell
CD DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE The optical drive does not respond to commands from the
computer.
DATA ERROR The hard drive cannot read the data.
DECREASING AVAILABLE MEMORY One or more memory modules may be faulty or improperly
seated. Reinstall the memory modules or, if necessary, replace
them.
DISK C: FAILED INITIALIZATION The hard drive failed initialization. Run the hard drive tests in
Dell Diagnostics.
DRIVE NOT READY The operation requires a hard drive in the bay before it can
continue. Install a hard drive in the hard drive bay.
Troubleshooting 73
Table 21. Diagnostic error messages (continued)
Error messages Description
ERROR READING PCMCIA CARD The computer cannot identify the ExpressCard. Reinsert the
card or try another card.
EXTENDED MEMORY SIZE HAS CHANGED The amount of memory recorded in non-volatile memory
(NVRAM) does not match the memory module installed in the
computer. Restart the computer. If the error appears again,
Contact Dell
THE FILE BEING COPIED IS TOO LARGE FOR THE
DESTINATION DRIVE
The file that you are trying to copy is too large to fit on the
disk, or the disk is full. Try copying the file to a different disk
or use a larger capacity disk.
A FILENAME CANNOT CONTAIN ANY OF THE
FOLLOWING CHARACTERS: \ / : * ? " < > | -
Do not use these characters in filenames.
GATE A20 FAILURE A memory module may be loose. Reinstall the memory module
or, if necessary, replace it.
GENERAL FAILURE The operating system is unable to carry out the command.
The message is usually followed by specific information.
For example, Printer out of paper. Take the
appropriate action.
HARD-DISK DRIVE CONFIGURATION ERROR The computer cannot identify the drive type. Shut down the
computer, remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from
an optical drive. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the
hard drive, and restart the computer. Run the Hard Disk
Drive tests in Dell Diagnostics.
HARD-DISK DRIVE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0 The hard drive does not respond to commands from the
computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive,
and boot the computer from an optical drive. Then, shut
down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the
computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the
Hard Disk Drive tests in Dell Diagnostics.
HARD-DISK DRIVE FAILURE The hard drive does not respond to commands from the
computer. Shut down the computer, remove the hard drive,
and boot the computer from an optical drive. Then, shut
down the computer, reinstall the hard drive, and restart the
computer. If the problem persists, try another drive. Run the
Hard Disk Drive tests in Dell Diagnostics.
HARD-DISK DRIVE READ FAILURE The hard drive may be defective. Shut down the computer,
remove the hard drive, and boot the computer from an
optical. Then, shut down the computer, reinstall the hard
drive, and restart the computer. If the problem persists,
try another drive. Run the Hard Disk Drive tests in Dell
Diagnostics.
INSERT BOOTABLE MEDIA The operating system is trying to boot to non-bootable media,
such as an optical drive. Insert bootable media.
INVALID CONFIGURATION INFORMATION-PLEASE RUN
SYSTEM SETUP PROGRAM
The system configuration information does not match the
hardware configuration. The message is most likely to occur
after a memory module is installed. Correct the appropriate
options in the system setup program.
KEYBOARD CLOCK LINE FAILURE For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the
Keyboard Controller test in Dell Diagnostics.
KEYBOARD CONTROLLER FAILURE For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Restart
the computer, and avoid touching the keyboard or the mouse
during the boot routine. Run the Keyboard Controller test in
Dell Diagnostics.
74 Troubleshooting
Table 21. Diagnostic error messages (continued)
Error messages Description
KEYBOARD DATA LINE FAILURE For external keyboards, check the cable connection. Run the
Keyboard Controller test in Dell Diagnostics.
KEYBOARD STUCK KEY FAILURE For external keyboards or keypads, check the cable
connection. Restart the computer, and avoid touching the
keyboard or keys during the boot routine. Run the Stuck Key
test in Dell Diagnostics.
LICENSED CONTENT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN
MEDIADIRECT
Dell MediaDirect cannot verify the Digital Rights Management
(DRM) restrictions on the file, so the file cannot be played.
MEMORY ADDRESS LINE FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ
VALUE EXPECTING VALUE
A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.
Reinstall the memory module or, if necessary, replace it.
MEMORY ALLOCATION ERROR The software you are attempting to run is conflicting with the
operating system, another program, or a utility. Shut down
the computer, wait for 30 seconds, and then restart it. Run
the program again. If the error message still appears, see the
software documentation.
MEMORY DOUBLE WORD LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS,
READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE
A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.
Reinstall the memory module or, if necessary, replace it.
MEMORY ODD/EVEN LOGIC FAILURE AT ADDRESS,
READ VALUE EXPECTING VALUE
A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.
Reinstall the memory module or, if necessary, replace it.
MEMORY WRITE/READ FAILURE AT ADDRESS, READ
VALUE EXPECTING VALUE
A memory module may be faulty or improperly seated.
Reinstall the memory module or, if necessary, replace it.
NO BOOT DEVICE AVAILABLE The computer cannot find the hard drive. If the hard drive is
your boot device, ensure that the drive is installed, properly
seated, and partitioned as a boot device.
NO BOOT SECTOR ON HARD DRIVE The operating system may be corrupted, Contact Dell.
NO TIMER TICK INTERRUPT A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the
System Set tests in Dell Diagnostics.
NOT ENOUGH MEMORY OR RESOURCES. EXIT SOME
PROGRAMS AND TRY AGAIN
You have too many programs open. Close all windows and
open the program that you want to use.
OPERATING SYSTEM NOT FOUND Reinstall the operating system. If the problem persists,
Contact Dell.
OPTIONAL ROM BAD CHECKSUM The optional ROM has failed. Contact Dell.
SECTOR NOT FOUND The operating system cannot locate a sector on the hard
drive. You may have a defective sector or corrupted File
Allocation Table (FAT) on the hard drive. Run the Windows
error-checking utility to check the file structure on the hard
drive. See Windows Help and Support for instructions (click
Start > Help and Support). If a large number of sectors are
defective, back up the data (if possible), and then format the
hard drive.
SEEK ERROR The operating system cannot find a specific track on the hard
drive.
SHUTDOWN FAILURE A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run
the System Set tests in Dell Diagnostics. If the message
reappears, Contact Dell.
TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK LOST POWER System configuration settings are corrupted. Connect your
computer to an electrical outlet to charge the battery. If
the problem persists, try to restore the data by entering the
System Setup program, then immediately exit the program. If
the message reappears, Contact Dell.
Troubleshooting 75
Table 21. Diagnostic error messages (continued)
Error messages Description
TIME-OF-DAY CLOCK STOPPED The reserve battery that supports the system configuration
settings may require recharging. Connect your computer to an
electrical outlet to charge the battery. If the problem persists,
Contact Dell.
TIME-OF-DAY NOT SET-PLEASE RUN THE SYSTEM
SETUP PROGRAM
The time or date stored in the system setup program does
not match the system clock. Correct the settings for the Date
and Time options.
TIMER CHIP COUNTER 2 FAILED A chip on the system board may be malfunctioning. Run the
System Set tests in Dell Diagnostics.
UNEXPECTED INTERRUPT IN PROTECTED MODE The keyboard controller may be malfunctioning, or a memory
module may be loose. Run the System Memory tests and the
Keyboard Controller test in Dell Diagnostics or Contact
Dell.
X:\ IS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE DEVICE IS NOT
READY
Insert a disk into the drive and try again.
System error messages
Table 22. System error messages
System message Description
Alert! Previous attempts at booting this
system have failed at checkpoint [nnnn]. For
help in resolving this problem, please note
this checkpoint and contact Dell Technical
Support
The computer failed to complete the boot routine three
consecutive times for the same error.
CMOS checksum error RTC is reset, BIOS Setup default has been loaded.
CPU fan failure CPU fan has failed.
System fan failure System fan has failed.
Hard-disk drive failure Possible hard disk drive failure during POST.
Keyboard failure Keyboard failure or loose cable. If reseating the cable does not
solve the problem, replace the keyboard.
No boot device available No bootable partition on hard disk drive, the hard disk drive
cable is loose, or no bootable device exists.
●If the hard drive is your boot device, ensure that the
cables are connected and that the drive is installed
properly and partitioned as a boot device.
●Enter system setup and ensure that the boot sequence
information is correct.
No timer tick interrupt A chip on the system board might be malfunctioning or
motherboard failure.
NOTICE - Hard Drive SELF MONITORING SYSTEM
has reported that a parameter has exceeded
its normal operating range. Dell recommends
that you back up your data regularly. A
parameter out of range may or may not
indicate a potential hard drive problem
S.M.A.R.T error, possible hard disk drive failure.
76 Troubleshooting
Getting help and contacting Dell
Self-help resources
You can get information and help on Dell products and services using these self-help resources:
Table 23. Self-help resources
Self-help resources Resource location
Information about Dell products and services www.dell.com
My Dell app
Tips
Contact Support In Windows search, type Contact Support, and press
Enter.
Online help for operating system www.dell.com/support/windows
www.dell.com/support/linux
Access top solutions, diagnostics, drivers and downloads, and
learn more about your computer through videos, manuals and
documents.
Your Dell computer is uniquely identified by a Service Tag or
Express Service Code. To view relevant support resources for
your Dell computer, enter the Service Tag or Express Service
Code at www.dell.com/support.
For more information on how to find the Service Tag for your
computer, see Locate the Service Tag on your computer.
Dell knowledge base articles for a variety of computer
concerns
1. Go to www.dell.com/support.
2. On the menu bar at the top of the Support page, select
Support > Knowledge Base.
3. In the Search field on the Knowledge Base page, type the
keyword, topic, or model number, and then click or tap the
search icon to view the related articles.
Contacting Dell
To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues, see www.dell.com/contactdell.
NOTE: Availability varies by country/region and product, and some services may not be available in your country/region.
NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information about your purchase invoice,
packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.
6
Getting help and contacting Dell 77