Table of Contents
- Working inside your computer
- Major components of Vostro 5300
- Removing and installing components
- Troubleshooting
- Getting help and contacting Dell
DELL 5300 User Manual
Displayed below is the user manual for 5300 by DELL which is a product in the Notebooks category. This manual has pages.
Related Manuals
Vostro 5300
Service Manual
Regulatory Model: P121G
Regulatory Type: P121G001
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.
© 2020 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.
Rev. A00
Working inside your computer
Safety instructions
Use the following safety guidelines to protect your computer from potential damage and to ensure your personal safety. Unless otherwise
noted, each procedure included in this document assumes that you have read the safety information that shipped with your computer.
NOTE: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For more
safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
NOTE: Disconnect 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 to the electrical outlet.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the computer, ensure that the work surface is flat and clean.
CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by
its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.
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 shipped with the product or at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
CAUTION: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by
periodically touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work,
periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate static electricity, which could harm internal components.
CAUTION: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its pull tab, not on the cable itself. Some cables have
connectors with locking tabs or thumb-screws that you must disengage before disconnecting the cable. When
disconnecting cables, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. When connecting cables, ensure
that the ports and connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
CAUTION: Press and eject any installed card from the media-card reader.
NOTE: The color of your computer and certain components may appear differently than shown in this document.
Before working inside your computer
NOTE: The images in this document may differ from your computer depending on the configuration you ordered.
Before you begin
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.
5. Remove any media card and optical disc from your computer, if applicable.
1
Working inside your computer 3
Safety precautions
The safety precautions chapter details the primary steps to be taken before performing any disassembly instructions.
Observe the following safety precautions before you perform any installation or break/fix procedures involving disassembly or reassembly:
• Turn off the system and all attached peripherals.
• Disconnect the system and all attached peripherals from AC power.
• Disconnect all network cables, telephone, and telecommunications lines from the system.
• Use an ESD field service kit when working inside any notebook to avoid electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage.
• After removing any system component, carefully place the removed component on an anti-static mat.
• Wear shoes with non-conductive rubber soles to reduce the chance of getting electrocuted.
Standby power
Dell products with standby power must be unplugged before you open the case. Systems that incorporate standby power are essentially
powered while turned off. The internal power enables the system to be remotely turned on (wake on LAN) and suspended into a sleep
mode and has other advanced power management features.
Unplugging, pressing and holding the power button for 15 seconds should discharge residual power in the system board. Remove the
battery from notebooks.
Bonding
Bonding is a method for connecting two or more grounding conductors to the same electrical potential. This is done through the use of a
field service electrostatic discharge (ESD) kit. When connecting a bonding wire, ensure that it is connected to bare metal and never to a
painted or non-metal surface. The wrist strap should be secure and in full contact with your skin, and ensure that you remove all jewelry
such as watches, bracelets, or rings prior to bonding yourself and the equipment.
Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection
ESD is a major concern when you handle electronic components, especially sensitive components such as expansion cards, processors,
memory DIMMs, and system boards. Very slight charges can damage circuits in ways that may not be obvious, such as intermittent
problems or a shortened product life span. As the industry pushes for lower power requirements and increased density, ESD protection is
an increasing concern.
Due to the increased density of semiconductors used in recent Dell products, the sensitivity to static damage is now higher than in
previous Dell products. For this reason, some previously approved methods of handling parts are no longer applicable.
Two recognized types of ESD damage are catastrophic and intermittent failures.
•Catastrophic – Catastrophic failures represent approximately 20 percent of ESD-related failures. The damage causes an immediate
and complete loss of device functionality. An example of catastrophic failure is a memory DIMM that has received a static shock and
immediately generates a "No POST/No Video" symptom with a beep code emitted for missing or nonfunctional memory.
•Intermittent – Intermittent failures represent approximately 80 percent of ESD-related failures. The high rate of intermittent failures
means that most of the time when damage occurs, it is not immediately recognizable. The DIMM receives a static shock, but the
tracing is merely weakened and does not immediately produce outward symptoms related to the damage. The weakened trace may
take weeks or months to melt, and in the meantime may cause degradation of memory integrity, intermittent memory errors, etc.
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.
4Working inside your computer
ESD field service kit
The unmonitored Field Service kit is the most commonly used service kit. Each Field Service kit includes three main components: anti-
static mat, wrist strap, and bonding wire.
Components of an ESD field service kit
The components of an ESD field service kit are:
•Anti-Static Mat – The anti-static mat is dissipative and parts can be placed on it during service procedures. When using an anti-
static mat, your wrist strap should be snug and the bonding wire should be connected to the mat and to any bare metal on the system
being worked on. Once deployed properly, service parts can be removed from the ESD bag and placed directly on the mat. ESD-
sensitive items are safe in your hand, on the ESD mat, in the system, or inside a bag.
•Wrist Strap and Bonding Wire – The wrist strap and bonding wire can be either directly connected between your wrist and bare
metal on the hardware if the ESD mat is not required, or connected to the anti-static mat to protect hardware that is temporarily
placed on the mat. The physical connection of the wrist strap and bonding wire between your skin, the ESD mat, and the hardware is
known as bonding. Use only Field Service kits with a wrist strap, mat, and bonding wire. Never use wireless wrist straps. Always be
aware that the internal wires of a wrist strap are prone to damage from normal wear and tear, and must be checked regularly with a
wrist strap tester in order to avoid accidental ESD hardware damage. It is recommended to test the wrist strap and bonding wire at
least once per week.
•ESD Wrist Strap Tester – The wires inside of an ESD strap are prone to damage over time. When using an unmonitored kit, it is a
best practice to regularly test the strap prior to each service call, and at a minimum, test once per week. A wrist strap tester is the
best method for doing this test. If you do not have your own wrist strap tester, check with your regional office to find out if they have
one. To perform the test, plug the wrist-strap's bonding-wire into the tester while it is strapped to your wrist and push the button to
test. A green LED is lit if the test is successful; a red LED is lit and an alarm sounds if the test fails.
•Insulator Elements – It is critical to keep ESD sensitive devices, such as plastic heat sink casings, away from internal parts that are
insulators and often highly charged.
•Working Environment – Before deploying the ESD Field Service kit, assess the situation at the customer location. For example,
deploying the kit for a server environment is different than for a desktop or portable environment. Servers are typically installed in a
rack within a data center; desktops or portables are typically placed on office desks or cubicles. Always look for a large open flat work
area that is free of clutter and large enough to deploy the ESD kit with additional space to accommodate the type of system that is
being repaired. The workspace should also be free of insulators that can cause an ESD event. On the work area, insulators such as
Styrofoam and other plastics should always be moved at least 12 inches or 30 centimeters away from sensitive parts before physically
handling any hardware components.
•ESD Packaging – All ESD-sensitive devices must be shipped and received in static-safe packaging. Metal, static-shielded bags are
preferred. However, you should always return the damaged part using the same ESD bag and packaging that the new part arrived in.
The ESD bag should be folded over and taped shut and all the same foam packing material should be used in the original box that the
new part arrived in. ESD-sensitive devices should be removed from packaging only at an ESD-protected work surface, and parts
should never be placed on top of the ESD bag because only the inside of the bag is shielded. Always place parts in your hand, on the
ESD mat, in the system, or inside an anti-static bag.
•Transporting Sensitive Components – When transporting ESD sensitive components such as replacement parts or parts to be
returned to Dell, it is critical to place these parts in anti-static bags for safe transport.
ESD protection summary
It is recommended that all field service technicians use the traditional wired ESD grounding wrist strap and protective anti-static mat at all
times when servicing Dell products. In addition, it is critical that technicians keep sensitive parts separate from all insulator parts while
performing service and that they use anti-static bags for transporting sensitive components.
After working inside your computer
About this task
CAUTION: Leaving stray or loose screws inside your computer may severely damage your computer.
Steps
1. Replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside your computer.
2. Connect any external devices, peripherals, or cables you removed before working on your computer.
3. Replace any media cards, discs, or any other parts that you removed before working on your computer.
4. Connect your computer and all attached devices to their electrical outlets.
Working inside your computer 5
5. Turn on your computer.
6 Working inside your computer
Major components of Vostro 5300
The following image shows the major components of Vostro 5300.
1. Base cover
2. Battery
3. Fan
4. Wireless-card bracket
5. Wireless card
6. Coin-cell battery
7. Power button with fingerprint reader
8. I/O board
2
Major components of Vostro 5300 7
9. Palm-rest and keyboard assembly
10. Display assembly
11. Touchpad
12. Speakers
13. Power-adapter port
14. Solid-state drive shield
15. Solid-state drive
16. Heat sink
NOTE: Dell provides a list of components and their part numbers for the original system configuration purchased. These
parts are available according to warranty coverages purchased by the customer. Contact your Dell sales representative
for purchase options.
8 Major components of Vostro 5300
Removing and installing components
Recommended tools
The procedures in this document require the following tools:
• Phillips #0 screwdriver
• Phillips #1 screwdriver
• Plastic scribe: Recommended for field technicians.
NOTE: The #0 screw driver is for screws 0-1 and the #1 screw driver is for screws 2-4.
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 surface 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
Base cover Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x4 4
3-cell Battery Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x5 4
4-cell Battery Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x5 5
Solid-state drive bracket System board M2x3 1
Fan System board M2x3 2
Display-assembly hinges Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x2 3
Power-adapter port Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x3 1
3
Removing and installing components 9
Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image
I/O board Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x3 2
Wireless-card bracket Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x2.5 1
Touchpad Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x2 4
Base cover
Removing the base cover
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the base cover and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
10 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 11
Steps
1. Loosen the three captive screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Remove the four screws (M2x4) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Starting from the top-left corner, use a plastic scribe to pry the base cover in the direction of the arrows to release the base cover
from the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
CAUTION: Do not pull on or pry the base cover from the side where the hinges are; doing so may damage the base
cover.
4. Pry the base cover and remove it from the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
NOTE: The following steps are applicable only if you want to further remove any other component from your
computer.
5. Using the pull tab, disconnect the battery cable from the system board.
6. Turn your computer over and press the power button for 15 seconds to drain the flea power.
Installing the base cover
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the base cover and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
12 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 13
Steps
1. Connect the battery cable to the system board, if applicable.
2. Align the screw holes on the base cover with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly, and then snap the base cover
into place.
3. Replace the four screws (M2x4) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. TIghten the three captive screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Next steps
1. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Battery
Lithium-ion battery precautions
CAUTION:
• Exercise caution when handling Lithium-ion batteries.
• Discharge the battery as much as possible before removing it from the system. This can be done by disconnecting
the AC adapter from the system to allow the battery to drain.
• Do not crush, drop, mutilate, or penetrate the battery with foreign objects.
• Do not expose the battery to high temperatures, or disassemble battery packs and cells.
• Do not apply pressure to the surface of the battery.
• Do not bend the battery.
14 Removing and installing components
• Do not use tools of any kind to pry on or against the battery.
• Ensure any screws during the servicing of this product are not lost or misplaced, to prevent accidental puncture or
damage to the battery and other system components.
• If the battery gets stuck inside your computer as a result of swelling, do not try to release it as puncturing, bending,
or crushing a lithium-ion battery can be dangerous. In such an instance, contact Dell technical support for
assistance. See www.dell.com/contactdell.
• Always purchase genuine batteries from www.dell.com or authorized Dell partners and resellers.
Removing the 3-cell battery
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the battery and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 15
Steps
1. Remove the four screws (M2x5) that secure the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Disconnect the battery cable from the system board, if applicable.
3. Lift the battery off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the 3-cell battery
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the battery and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the battery with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Replace the four screws (M2x5) that secure the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Connect the battery cable to the system board.
16 Removing and installing components
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing the 4-cell battery
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the battery and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the five screws (M2x5) that secure the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Disconnect the battery cable from the system board, if applicable.
3. Lift the battery off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Removing and installing components 17
Installing the 4-cell battery
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the battery and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the battery with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Replace the five screws (M2x5) that secure the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Connect the battery cable to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
18 Removing and installing components
Solid-state drive
Removing the solid-state drive
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
CAUTION: Solid-state drives are fragile. Exercise care when handling the solid-state drive.
CAUTION: To avoid data loss, do not remove the solid-state drive while the computer is in sleep or on state.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Lift the mylar that covers the solid-state drive slot.
2. Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the solid-state drive bracket to the system board.
3. Slide and remove the solid-state drive bracket off the system board.
4. Slide and remove the solid-state drive from the solid-state drive slot.
Installing the solid-state drive
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
CAUTION: Solid-state drives are fragile. Exercise care when handling the solid-state drive.
Removing and installing components 19
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Lift the mylar that covers the solid-state drive slot.
2. Slide the solid-state drive into the solid-state drive slot.
3. Slide the solid-state drive bracket and align the screw hole on the solid-state drive bracket with the screw hole on the system board.
4. Replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the solid-state drive bracket to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
20 Removing and installing components
Coin-cell battery
Removing the coin-cell battery
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
CAUTION: Removing the coin-cenn 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 coin-cell battery.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the coin-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the system board.
2. Remove the coin-cell battery cable from the routing guide.
3. Peel the coin-cell battery off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the coin-cell battery
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the coin-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 21
Steps
1. Adhere the coin-cell battery to the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Route the coin-cell battery cable through the routing guide.
3. Connect the coin-cell battery cable to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the 4-cell battery.
2. Install the 3-cell battery.
3. Install the base cover.
4. 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 base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of WLAN card and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
22 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Lift the mylar that covers the wireless-card slot.
2. Remove the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the wireless card and lift the wireless-card bracket off the
wireless card.
3. Disconnect the antenna cables from the wireless card.
4. Peel off the tape that secures the wireless card to the system board.
5. Slide and remove the wireless card from the wireless-card slot.
Installing the wireless card
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of WLAN card and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 23
Steps
1. Lift the mylar that covers the wireless-card slot.
2. Align the notch on the wireless card with the tab on the wireless-card slot and insert the wireless card at an angle into the wireless-
card slot.
3. Connect the antenna cables to the wireless card.
The following table provides the antenna-cable color scheme for the wireless card 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
4. Adhere the tape that secures the wireless card to the system board.
5. Align and place the wireless-card bracket on the wireless card.
6. Replace the screw (M2x2.5) to secure the wireless-card bracket to the wireless card.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
24 Removing and installing components
Fans
Removing the fan
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the fans and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Peel off the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the fan.
2. Lift the mylar that covers the fan screw on the system board.
3. Remove the two screws (M2x3) that secure the fan to the system board.
4. Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.
5. Lift the fan off the system board.
Installing the fan
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the fans and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 25
Steps
1. Lift the mylar that covers the screw hole on the fan.
2. Align the screw holes on the fan with the screw holes on the system board.
3. Replace the two screws (M2x3) that secure the fan to the system board.
4. Connect the fan cable from the system board.
5. Adhere the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the fan.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Speakers
Removing the speakers
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the speakers and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
26 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.
2. Peel the tapes that secure the speaker cable to the battery.
3. Note the routing of the speaker cables, and remove the speaker cables from the respective routing guides on the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly.
4. Pry the speakers off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the speakers
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the speakers and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 27
Steps
1. Slide the left and the right speakers into the respective slots on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Route the speaker cables through the respective routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Adhere the tapes that secure the speaker cable to the battery.
4. Connect the left and the right speaker cables to the respective connectors on the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Display assembly
Removing the display assembly
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the display assembly and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
28 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 29
Steps
1. Lift the mylar that covers the display cable on the system board.
2. Open the latch and disconnect the display cable from the system board.
3. Remove the two screws (M2x2) that secure the left hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Remove the screw (M2x2) that secures the right hinge to the system board and the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Open the display assembly at an angle and slide the palm-rest and keyboard assembly from the display assembly.
6. After performing all the above steps, you are left with the display assembly.
30 Removing and installing components
Installing the display assembly
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the display assembly and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 31
Steps
1. Place the display assembly on a clean surface.
2. Align and place the palm-rest and keyboard assembly at an angle with the display assembly.
3. Align the screw holes on the display hinges with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Replace the screw (M2x2) that secures the right hinge to the system board and the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Replace the two screws (M2x2) that secure the left hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Lift the mylar that covers the display-cable connector on the system board.
7. Connect the display cable to the connector on the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Touchpad
Removing the touchpad
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
32 Removing and installing components
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the 4-cell battery.
4. Remove the 3-cell battery.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of touchpad and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Peel the tape that secures the speaker cables to the touchpad bracket.
2. Remove the two (M2x2) screws that secure the touchpad bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Remove the two (M2x2) screws that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Open the latch and disconnect the touchpad cable from the system board.
5. Peel the tapes that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Lift the touchpad, along with the cable, off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the touchpad
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of touchpad and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 33
Steps
1. Align and place the touchpad into the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Replace the two (M2x2) screws that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Adhere the tapes that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Connect the touchpad cable and close the latch to secure the cable to the system board.
5. Align and place the touchpad bracket into the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Replace the two (M2x2) screws that secure the touchpad bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
7. Adhere the tape that secures the speaker cables to the touchpad bracket.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Install the 4-cell battery.
3. Install the 3-cell battery.
4. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Heat sink
Removing the heat sink
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
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.
NOTE: The heat sink may become hot during normal operation. Allow sufficient time for the heat sink to cool before
you touch it.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the heat sink and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
34 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Peel off the mylar that covers the heat sink on the system board.
2. In reverse sequential order (as indicated on the heat sink), loosen the seven captive screws that secure the heat sink to the system
board.
3. Lift the heat sink off the system board.
Installing the heat sink
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
CAUTION: Incorrect alignment of the heat sink can damage the system board and processor.
NOTE: If either the system board or the heat sink is replaced, use the thermal pad/paste provided in the kit to ensure
that thermal conductivity is achieved.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the heat sink and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 35
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the heat sink with the screw holes on the system board.
2. In sequential order (as indicated on the heat sink), tighten the seven captive screws that secure the heat sink to the system board.
3. Adhere the mylar that covers the heat sink on the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Power-adapter port
Removing the power-adapter port
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the display assembly.
36 Removing and installing components
About this task
The following image indicates the location of power-adapter port and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the power-adapter port to the system board.
2. Disconnect the power-adapter port cable from the system board.
3. Lift the power-adapter port, along with its cable, off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the power-adapter port
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of power-adapter port and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 37
Steps
1. Connect the power-adapter port cable to the system board.
2. Replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the power-adapter port to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
I/O board
Removing the I/O board
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the display assembly.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of I/O board and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Peel the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the I/O board.
2. Open the latch and disconnect the I/O-board cable from the I/O board.
3. Peel the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the fan.
4. Remove the two screws (M2x3) that secure the I/O board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Lift the I/O board off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
38 Removing and installing components
Installing the I/O board
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of I/O board and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Align and place the I/O board on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Replace the two screws (M2x3) that secure the I/O board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Connect the I/O-board cable and close the latch to secure the cable to the I/O board.
4. Adhere the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the fan.
5. Adhere the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the I/O board.
Next steps
1. Install the fan.
2. Install the 3-cell battery.
3. Install the 4-cell battery.
4. Install the base cover.
5. 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.
Removing and installing components 39
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: 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.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the 4-cell battery.
4. Remove the 3-cell battery.
5. Remove the fan.
6. Remove the heat sink.
7. Remove the solid state drive.
8. Remove the display assembly.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the system board and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
40 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Open the latch, and disconnect the fingerprint-reader cable, I/O-board cable, touchpad cable, keyboard cable and keyboard-backlit
cable from the system board.
2. Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.
3. Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the system board.
4. Lift the system board off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the system board
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
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.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the system board and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 41
Steps
1. Align the system board on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Connect the right speaker cable and left speaker cable to the respective connectors on the system board.
3. Connect the coin-cell battery cable to the connector on the system board.
4. Connect the fingerprint-reader cable, I/O-board cable, touchpad cable, keyboard cable and keyboard-backlit cable to the respective
connectors and close the latch to secure the cables to the connectors on the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the display assembly.
2. Install the solid state drive.
3. Install the heat sink.
4. Install the fan.
5. Install the 4-cell battery.
6. Install the 3-cell battery.
7. Install the base cover.
8. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
42 Removing and installing components
Palm-rest and keyboard assembly
Removing the palm-rest and keyboard assembly
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the 4-cell battery.
4. Remove the 3-cell battery.
5. Remove the wireless card.
6. Remove the speakers.
7. Remove the system board.
NOTE: The system board can be removed with the heat sink attached.
8. Remove the display assembly.
9. Remove the power-adapter port.
10. Remove the touchpad.
About this task
The following image indicates the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
After performing the steps in the pre-requisites, we are left with the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
NOTE: System board can be removed with heatsink attached.
Installing the palm-rest and keyboard assembly
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 43
About this task
The following image indicates the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
Place the palm-rest and keyboard assembly on a flat surface.
Next steps
1. Install the touchpad.
2. Install the power-adapter port.
3. Install the display assembly.
4. Install the system board.
5. Install the speakers.
6. Install the wireless card.
7. Install the 4-cell battery.
8. Install the 3-cell battery.
9. Install the base cover.
10. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Power button with fingerprint reader
Removing the power button with fingerprint reader
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the 4-cell battery.
4. Remove the 3-cell battery.
5. Remove the wireless card.
6. Remove the speakers.
7. Remove the system board.
NOTE: The system board can be removed with the heat sink attached.
44 Removing and installing components
8. Remove the display assembly.
9. Remove the power-adapter port.
10. Remove the power button with fingerprint reader.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of power-adapter port and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Peel off the mylar tape that secures the power button with fingerprint reader cable connection.
2. Disconnect the power button with fingerprint reader cable from the connector on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Lift the power button with fingerprint reader off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the power button with fingerprint reader
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of power-adapter port and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 45
Steps
1. Align the power button with fingerprint reader on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Connect the power button with fingerprint reader cable to the connector on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Adhere the mylar tape that secures the power button with fingerprint reader cable connection.
Next steps
1. Install the power button with fingerprint reader.
2. Install the power-adapter port.
3. Install the display assembly.
4. Install the system board.
5. Install the speakers.
6. Install the wireless card.
7. Install the 4-cell battery.
8. Install the 3-cell battery.
9. Install the base cover.
10. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
46 Removing and installing components
Troubleshooting
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 10 operating system. It
consists of tools to diagnose and troubleshoot issues that may occur before your computer boots to the operating system. It enables you
to diagnose hardware issues, repair your computer, back up your files, or restore your computer to its factory state.
You can also download it from the Dell Support website to troubleshoot and fix your computer when it fails to boot into their primary
operating system due to software or hardware failures.
For more information about the Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery, see Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery User's Guide at www.dell.com/
support.
Backup media and recovery options
It is recommended to create a recovery drive to troubleshoot and fix problems that may occur with Windows. Dell proposes multiple
options for recovering Windows operating system on your Dell PC. For more information. see Dell Windows Backup Media and Recovery
Options.
Dell SupportAssist Pre-boot System Performance
Check diagnostics
About this task
The SupportAssist diagnostics (also known as system diagnostics) performs a complete check of your hardware. The Dell SupportAssist
Pre-boot System Performance Check diagnostics is embedded with the BIOS and is launched by the BIOS internally. The embedded
system diagnostics provides a set of options for particular devices or device groups allowing you to:
• Run tests automatically or in an interactive mode
• Repeat tests
• Display or save test results
• Run thorough tests to introduce additional test options to provide extra information about the failed device(s)
• View status messages that inform you if tests are completed successfully
• View error messages that inform you of problems encountered during testing
NOTE: Some tests for specific devices require user interaction. Always ensure that you are present at the computer
terminal when the diagnostic tests are performed.
For more information, see https://www.dell.com/support/article/sln115162/.
Running the SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance
Check
Steps
1. Turn on your computer.
2. As the computer boots, press the F12 key as the Dell logo appears.
3. On the boot menu screen, select the Diagnostics option.
4
Troubleshooting 47
4. Click the arrow at the bottom left corner.
Diagnostics front page is displayed.
5. Click the arrow in the lower-right corner to go to the page listing.
The items detected are listed.
6. To run a diagnostic test on a specific device, press Esc and click Yes to stop the diagnostic test.
7. Select the device from the left pane and click Run Tests.
8. If there are any issues, error codes are displayed.
Note the error code and validation number and contact Dell.
Validation Tools
This section contains information on how to validate the SupportAssist ePSA, ePSA or PSA error codes.
Error code verification can be done using below two methods :
•Online Enhanced Preboot System Assessment Validation Tool.
•QR scanning using QR APP on Smart Phone.
Online SupportAssist ePSA, ePSA or PSA Error Codes Validation Tool
Usage Guide
Steps
1. User to obtain information from ePSA error windows.
2. Navigate to https://www.dell.com/support/diagnose/Pre-boot-Analysis.
3. Enter error code, validation code, and service tag. Part serial number is optional.
48 Troubleshooting
NOTE: For error code, use only the last 3 or 4 digits of the code. (user can enter 0142 or 142 instead of 2000–0142.)
4. Click on Submit once all the necessary information is entered.
Results
Valid Error Code Example
Troubleshooting 49
After entering the correct information, the online tools will direct the user to the above screen which contains information on :
• Confirmation of the error code and result outcome
• Suggested Part Replacement
• If customer is still covered under Dell Warranty
• Case reference number if there is an open case under the service tag
Invalid Error Code Example
50 Troubleshooting
QR APP Validation Tool
About this task
Besides using the online tool, customers can also validate the error code by scanning the QR code with a QR APP on a smartphone.
Steps
1. User to obtain the QR code from ePSA error screen.
2. User can use any QR code scanner application through the smartphone to scan the QR code.
Troubleshooting 51
3. The QR code scanner application will scan the code and automatically generate a link. Click the link to proceed.
52 Troubleshooting
Results
The link generated will take the customer to the Dell Support website which contains information on:
• Confirmation of the error code and result outcome
• Suggested Part Replacement
• If customer is still covered under Dell Warranty
• Case reference number if there is an open case under the service tag
Troubleshooting 53
LCD Built-in Self Test
Overview : LCD Built-in Self Test (BIST)
Dell laptops have a built-in diagnostic tool that helps you determine if the screen abnormality you are experiencing is an inherent problem
with the LCD (screen) of the Dell laptop or with the video card (GPU) and PC settings .
When you notice screen abnormalities like flickering, distortion, clarity issues, fuzzy or blurry image, horizontal or vertical lines, color fade
etc., it is always a good practice to isolate the LCD (screen) by running the Built-In Self Test (BIST).
How to invoke LCD BIST Test
1. Power off the Dell laptop.
2. Disconnect any peripherals connected to the laptop. Connect only the AC adapter (charger) to the laptop.
3. Make sure that the LCD (screen) is clean (no dust particles on the surface of the screen).
4. Press and hold D key and Power on the laptop to enter LCD built-in self test (BIST) mode. Continue to hold the D key, until you see
color bars on the LCD (screen).
5. The screen will display multiple color bars and change colors on the entire screen to red, green, and blue.
6. Carefully inspect the screen for abnormalities.
7. Press Esc key to exit.
NOTE: Dell ePSA upon launch, initiates a LCD BIST first, expecting an user intervention confirm functionality of the
LCD.
54 Troubleshooting
M-BIST
M-BIST (Built In Self-Test) diagnostics tool, featuring improved accuracy in system board failures.
NOTE: M-BIST can be manually initiated before POST (Power On Self Test).
How to run M-BIST
NOTE: M-BIST must be initiated on the system from a power-off state either connected to AC power or with battery
only.
1. Press and hold both the M key on the keyboard and the power button to initiate M-BIST.
2. With both the M key and the power button held down, the battery indicator LED may exhibit two states:
a. OFF: No fault detected with the system board
b. AMBER: Indicates a problem with the system board
System diagnostic lights
Battery-status light
Indicates the power and battery-charge status.
Solid white — Power adapter is connected and the battery has more than 5 percent charge.
Amber — Computer is running on battery and the battery has less than 5 percent charge.
Off
• Power adapter is connected and the battery is fully charged.
• Computer is running on battery and the battery has more than 5 percent charge.
• Computer is in sleep state, hibernation, or turned off.
The power and battery-status light blinks amber along with beep codes indicating failures.
For example, the power and battery-status light blinks amber two times followed by a pause, and then blinks white three times followed by
a pause. This 2,3 pattern continues until the computer is turned off indicating no memory or RAM is detected.
The following table shows different power and battery-status light patterns and associated problems.
Table 3. LED codes
Diagnostic light codes Problem description
2,1 Processor failure
2,2 System board: BIOS or ROM (Read-Only Memory) failure
2,3 No memory or RAM (Random-Access Memory) detected
2,4 Memory or RAM (Random-Access Memory) failure
2,5 Invalid memory installed
2,6 System-board or chipset error
2,7 Display failure
2,8 LCD power rail failure. Replace system board
3,1 Coin-cell battery failure
3,2 PCI, video card/chip failure
3,3 Recovery image not found
3,4 Recovery image found but invalid
3,5 Power-rail failure
3,6 System BIOS Flash incomplete
Troubleshooting 55
Diagnostic light codes Problem description
3,7 Management Engine (ME) error
Camera status light: Indicates whether the camera is in use.
• Solid white — Camera is in use.
• Off — Camera is not in use.
Caps Lock status light: Indicates whether Caps Lock is enabled or disabled.
• Solid white — Caps Lock enabled.
• Off — Caps Lock disabled.
Flea power release
About this task
Flea power is the residual static electricity that remains on the computer even after it has been powered off and the battery has been
disconnected from the system board. The following procedure provides the instructions on how to release the flea power:
Steps
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
NOTE: The battery must be disconnected from the system board, see Step 2 in Removing the battery.
3. Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds to drain the flea power.
4. Install the base cover.
5. Turn on your computer.
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.
56 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 4. Self-help resources
Self-help resources Resource location
Information about Dell products and services https://www.dell.com/
Dell Support
Tips
Contact Support In Windows search, type Contact Support, and press Enter.
Online help for operating system • Windows: https://www.dell.com/support/windows
• Linux: https://www.dell.com/support/linux
Troubleshooting information, user manuals, set up instructions,
product specifications, technical help blogs, drivers, software
updates, and so on.
https://www.dell.com/support/home/
Dell knowledge base articles for various of system concerns: 1. Go to https://www.dell.com/support/home/?
app=knowledgebase.
2. Type the subject or keyword in the Search box.
3. Click Search to retrieve the related articles.
Learn and get more information about your product:
• Product specifications
• Operating system
• Setting up and using your product
• Data backup
• Troubleshooting and diagnostics
• Factory and system restore
• BIOS information
Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and
service options. 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.
• Select Detect Product.
• Locate your product through the drop-down menu under View
Products.
• Enter the Service Tag number or Product ID in the search
bar.
• Once on product support page, scroll down to Manuals and
Documents section to preview all the Manuals, documents, and
other information for your product.
5
Getting help and contacting Dell 57
Contacting Dell
Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options. 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. Availability varies by country/region and
product, and some services may not be available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues:
1. Go to https://www.dell.com/support/.
2. Select your country/region from the drop-down menu on the lower right corner of the page.
3. For customized support:
a. Enter your system Service Tag in the Enter your Service Tag field.
b. Click submit.
• The support page that lists the various support categories is displayed.
4. For general support:
a. Select your product category.
b. Select your product segment.
c. Select your product.
• The support page that lists the various support categories is displayed.
5. For contact details of Dell Global Technical Support, see https://www.dell.com/contactdell.
NOTE: The Contact Technical Support page is displayed with details to call, chat, or email the Dell Global Technical
Support team.
NOTE: Availability varies by country/region and product, and some services may not be available in your area.
58 Getting help and contacting Dell