Table of Contents
DELL 7390 User Manual
Displayed below is the user manual for 7390 by DELL which is a product in the Notebooks category. This manual has pages.
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Service Manual
Regulatory Model: P103G
Regulatory Type: P103G001
June 2020
Rev. A01
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.
© 2019-2020 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.
1 Safety instructions....................................................................................................................... 5
Before working inside your computer................................................................................................................................. 5
Before you begin .............................................................................................................................................................5
Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection.......................................................................................................................... 6
ESD field service kit ..............................................................................................................................................................6
Transporting sensitive components.................................................................................................................................... 7
After working inside your computer.................................................................................................................................... 7
2 Removing and installing components............................................................................................. 8
Recommended tools..............................................................................................................................................................8
Screw list................................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Base cover..............................................................................................................................................................................9
Removing the base cover............................................................................................................................................... 9
Installing the base cover................................................................................................................................................ 12
Battery...................................................................................................................................................................................13
Removing the battery.................................................................................................................................................... 13
Installing the battery...................................................................................................................................................... 15
Display assembly...................................................................................................................................................................16
Removing the display assembly....................................................................................................................................16
Installing the display assembly...................................................................................................................................... 18
Speakers............................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Removing the speakers................................................................................................................................................ 20
Installing the speakers....................................................................................................................................................21
System-board assembly...................................................................................................................................................... 21
Removing the system board......................................................................................................................................... 21
Installing the system board...........................................................................................................................................24
Keyboard assembly..............................................................................................................................................................27
Removing the keyboard assembly............................................................................................................................... 27
Installing the Keyboard..................................................................................................................................................28
Palm-rest assembly..............................................................................................................................................................31
Removing the palm-rest and keyboard assembly...................................................................................................... 31
Installing the palm-rest assembly................................................................................................................................. 31
3 Device drivers............................................................................................................................ 33
Intel Chipset Software Installation Utility......................................................................................................................... 33
Video drivers........................................................................................................................................................................ 33
Intel Serial IO driver............................................................................................................................................................. 33
Intel Trusted Execution Engine Interface......................................................................................................................... 33
Intel Virtual Button driver................................................................................................................................................... 33
Wireless and Bluetooth drivers.......................................................................................................................................... 33
4 System setup.............................................................................................................................34
BIOS overview..................................................................................................................................................................... 34
Entering BIOS setup program............................................................................................................................................34
Contents
Contents 3
Navigation keys....................................................................................................................................................................34
Boot Sequence.................................................................................................................................................................... 35
System setup options......................................................................................................................................................... 35
System and setup password..............................................................................................................................................43
Assigning a system setup password............................................................................................................................44
Deleting or changing an existing system setup password........................................................................................44
Clearing CMOS settings............................................................................................................................................... 45
Clearing BIOS (System Setup) and System passwords...........................................................................................45
5 Troubleshooting......................................................................................................................... 46
Dell SupportAssist Pre-boot System Performance Check diagnostics........................................................................46
Running the SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance Check....................................................................... 46
Recovering the operating system..................................................................................................................................... 46
Flashing BIOS (USB key)....................................................................................................................................................47
Flashing the BIOS................................................................................................................................................................ 47
Backup media and recovery options................................................................................................................................. 47
WiFi power cycle..................................................................................................................................................................47
Flea power release...............................................................................................................................................................48
6 Getting help and contacting Dell..................................................................................................49
4Contents
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.
Topics:
•Before working inside your computer
•Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection
•ESD field service kit
•Transporting sensitive components
•After working inside your computer
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.
1
Safety instructions 5
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.
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.
•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
6Safety instructions
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.
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.
Safety instructions 7
Removing and installing components
Recommended tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
• Phillips screwdriver #00
• Phillips screwdriver #0
• Torx screwdriver T5
• Flat-head screwdriver
• 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 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 assembly M2x4.5 8 Torx screws
Battery System board M1.6x3.4 1 Torx screw
Battery Palm-rest assembly M1.6x3 7
Battery Palm-rest assembly M1.2x4 2
Display-cable bracket System board M1.6x3 1 captive screw on
display-cable bracket
Display assembly Palm-rest assembly M2.5x3 4
USB Type-C bracket System board M1.6x3 1
USB Type-C bracket System board M1.6x2 1
System board Palm-rest assembly M1.6x2.5 4
2
8 Removing and installing components
Table 1. Screw list(continued)
Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image
System board Palm-rest assembly M1.2x3 3
System board Palm-rest assembly M1.2x4 1 captive screw
Keyboard assembly Palm-rest assembly M1.2x1.4 38
Keyboard assembly Palm-rest assembly M1.2x1.6 10
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.
Removing and installing components 9
10 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 11
Steps
1. Remove the eight Torx screws (M2x4.5) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest assembly.
2. Starting from the bottom-left corner, pry the base cover in the direction of the arrows to release it from the palm-rest assembly.
CAUTION: Do not pull on or pry the base cover from the top as it may damage the base cover.
3. Hold both sides of the base cover and rotate from front to back to remove from palm rest assembly.
NOTE: The pins at the bottom of the base cover for grounding the antennas and the audio board are fragile. Place
the base cover on a clean surface to avoid damage to the pins.
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
Steps
1. Align and secure the back of the base cover on the palm-rest assembly, and then snap the base cover into place.
2. Replace the eight Torx screws (M2x4.5) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest assembly.
Next steps
1. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Battery
Removing the 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 13
Steps
1. Remove the Torx 5 screw (M1.6x3.4) that secures the battery cable to the system board.
2. Disconnect the battery cable from the interposer board.
NOTE: Remove the interposer board immediately after disconnecting the battery cable to avoid misplacing it. Hold
the edges of the interposer board to avoid damaging the pins on it.
14 Removing and installing components
NOTE: The interposer board is not polarity sensitive and both sides are compatible.
3. Remove the interposer board from the system board.
4. Remove the seven screws (M1.6x3) that secure the battery to the palm-rest assembly.
5. Remove the two screws (M1.2x4) that secure the battery to the system board.
6. Lift the battery off the palm-rest assembly.
7. Turn the battery over.
8. Using a plastic scribe, push to remove the magnet and the metal bar from the battery.
NOTE: Keep the magnet and the metal bar as they need to be installed on the new battery.
Installing the 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.
Removing and installing components 15
Steps
1. Adhere the magnet and the metal bar to the battery.
NOTE: Install the magnet and the metal bar from the faulty battery.
2. Align the screw holes on the battery with the screw holes on the system board and palm-rest assembly.
3. Replace the two screws (M1.2x4) that secure the battery to the system board.
4. Replace the seven screws (M1.6x3) that secure the battery to the palm-rest assembly.
5. Place the interposer board to the connector on the system board.
NOTE: The interposer board is not polarity sensitive and both sides are compatible.
6. Connect the battery cable to the interposer board.
7. Replace the Torx 5 screw (M1.6x3.4) that secures the battery cable to 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.
3. Remove the battery.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of display assembly and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
16 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Loosen the captive screw (M1.6x3) that secures the display-cable bracket to the system board.
2. Lift the display-cable bracket off the system board.
3. Peel the tapes that secure the display cable and camera cable to the system board.
4. Using the tape as a pull tab, disconnect the display cable and camera cable from the system board.
Removing and installing components 17
5. Remove the display cable and camera cable from the routing guides on the system board.
6. Remove the four screws (M2.5x3) that secure the display hinges to the palm-rest assembly.
7. Slide the palm-rest assembly off the display assembly.
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 display assembly and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
18 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Slide the palm-rest assembly under the display assembly.
2. Align the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly with the screw holes on the display hinges.
3. Replace the four screws (M2.5x3) that secure the display hinges to the palm-rest assembly.
4. Route the display cable and camera cable through the routing guides on the system board.
Removing and installing components 19
5. Connect the display cable and camera cable to the system board.
6. Adhere the tapes that secure the display cable and camera cable to the system board.
7. Align and place the display-cable bracket on the system board.
8. Tighten the captive screw (M1.6x3) that secures the display-cable bracket to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the battery.
2. Install the base cover.
3. 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.
3. Remove the battery.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of speakers and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.
2. Note the routing of the speaker cable and remove the speaker cable from the routing guides on the palm-rest assembly.
3. Using a plastic scribe, pry the speakers off the palm-rest assembly.
20 Removing and installing components
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 speakers and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Slide the speakers into the slots on the palm-rest assembly.
NOTE: Ensure that there is no adhesive residue from the faulty speakers that are removed previously.
2. Route the speaker cable through the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Connect the speaker cable to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the battery.
2. Install the base cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
System-board assembly
Removing the system board
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the battery.
Removing and installing components 21
About this task
The following image indicates the connectors on your system board.
Figure 1. System-board connectors
1. Speaker cable 2. Fingerprint-reader cable
3. Display cable 4. Camera cable
5. Keyboard-controller board cable
The following images indicate the location of system board and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
22 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Loosen the captive screw (M1.6x3) that secures the display-cable bracket to the system board.
2. Lift the display-cable bracket off the system board.
3. Peel the tapes that secure the display cable and camera cable to the system board.
4. Using the tape as a pull tab, disconnect the display cable and camera cable from the system board.
5. Remove the display cable and camera cable from the routing guides on the system board.
6. Remove the screw (M1.6x3) and the screw (M1.6x2) that secures the type-C bracket to the system board.
NOTE: The M1.6x2 screw has a bigger head than the M1.6x3 screw.
7. Lift the type-C bracket off the system board.
8. Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.
9. Open the latch and disconnect the fingerprint-reader cable from the system board.
10. Peel off the fingerprint-reader daughter-board from the system board.
11. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard-controller board cable from the system board.
12. Remove the four screws (M1.6x2.5), three screws (M1.2x3), and one captive screw (M1.2x4) that secure the system board to the
palm-rest assembly.
13. Lift the system board off the palm-rest assembly.
Removing and installing components 23
Installing the system board
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the connectors on your system board.
Figure 2. System-board connectors
1. Speaker cable 2. Fingerprint-reader cable
3. Display cable 4. Camera cable
5. Keyboard-controller board cable
The following images indicate the location of system board and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
24 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 25
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the system board with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
2. Replace the fours screws (M2x4), three screws (M1.2x3), and one screw (M1.2x4) that secure the system board to the palm-rest
assembly.
3. Connect the keyboard-controller board cable to the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.
4. Connect the speaker cable to the system board.
5. Adhere the fingerprint-reader board to the slot on the system board.
6. Connect the fingerprint-reader cable to the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.
7. Align the screw holes on the USB Type-C bracket to the screw holes on the system board.
8. Replace the screw (M1.6x3) and the screw (M1.6x2) that secures the USB Type-C port bracket to the system board.
NOTE: The M1.6x2 screw has a bigger head than the M1.6x3 screw.
9. Route the display cable and camera cable through the routing guides on the system board.
10. Connect the display cable and camera cable to the system board.
11. Adhere the tapes that secure the display cable and camera cable to the system board.
12. Align and place the display-cable bracket on the system board.
13. Tighten the captive screw (M1.6x3) that secures the display-cable bracket to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the battery.
2. Install the base cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
26 Removing and installing components
Keyboard assembly
Removing the keyboard assembly
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the battery.
4. Remove the system-board assembly.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of keyboard assembly and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 27
Steps
1. Peel the fingerprint reader cable from the keyboard.
2. Remove the speaker cable from the routing guides on the left keyboard bracket.
3. Loosen the captive screw that secures the left keyboard bracket to the palm-rest assembly.
4. Using a plastic scribe, pry the left keyboard bracket off the palm-rest assembly.
5. Loosen the captive screw that secures the right keyboard bracket to the palm-rest assembly.
6. Using a plastic scribe, pry the right keyboard bracket off the palm-rest assembly.
7. Disconnect the keyboard cable and keyboard backlight cable from the keyboard controller board.
8. Peel the keyboard controller board cable from the keyboard.
9. Remove the 38 screws (M1.2x1.4) and ten screws (M1.2x1.6) that secure the keyboard to the palm-rest assembly.
NOTE: Peel off the three copper foil from the palm-rest assembly, and then peel off the two conductive tapes on the
keyboard assembly to separate the keyboard assembly and the palm-rest assembly.
10. Lift the keyboard off the palm-rest assembly.
Installing the Keyboard
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 keyboard assembly and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
28 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 29
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the keyboard with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
NOTE: Adhere the two conductive tapes on the keyboard, and then adhere the three copper foils on the palm-rest
assembly to secure the keyboard assembly to the palm-rest assembly.
2. Replace the 38 screws (M1.2x1.4) and ten screws (M1.2x1.6) that secure the keyboard to the palm-rest assembly.
NOTE: Do not install keyboard assembly screws into locations that are marked with MB. Those screw holes are
reserved for system board screws.
3. Adhere the keyboard controller board cable to the keyboard.
4. Connect the keyboard cable and keyboard backlight cable to the keyboard controller board.
5. Adhere the right keyboard bracket in the slots on the palm-rest assembly.
6. Tighten the captive screw that secures the right keyboard bracket to the palm-rest assembly.
7. Adhere the right keyboard bracket in the slots on the palm-rest assembly.
8. Tighten the captive screw that secures the left keyboard bracket to the palm-rest assembly.
9. Route the speaker cable through the routing guides on the left keyboard assembly.
10. Adhere the fingerprint reader cable to the keyboard.
Next steps
1. Install the system-board assembly.
2. Install the battery.
3. Install the base cover.
4. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
30 Removing and installing components
Palm-rest 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 battery.
4. Remove the display assembly.
5. Remove the speakers.
6. Remove the system-board assembly.
7. Remove the keyboard assembly.
About this task
The following image indicates the palm-rest assembly and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
After performing the steps in the prerequisites, we are left with the palm-rest assembly.
NOTE: Keep the power-button bracket if you need to replace the palm-rest assembly as it is reusable.
Installing the palm-rest assembly
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the palm-rest assembly and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 31
Steps
Place the palm-rest assembly on a flat surface.
NOTE: If you are installing components to a new palm-rest assembly, use the power-button bracket from the previous
palm-rest assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the keyboard assembly.
2. Install the system-board assembly.
3. Install the speakers.
4. Install the display assembly.
5. Install the battery.
6. Install the base cover.
7. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
32 Removing and installing components
Device drivers
Intel Chipset Software Installation Utility
In the Device Manager, check if the chipset driver is installed.
Install the Intel chipset updates from www.dell.com/support.
Video drivers
In the Device Manager, check if the video driver is installed.
Install the video driver update from www.dell.com/support.
Intel Serial IO driver
In the Device Manager, check if the Intel Serial IO driver is installed.
Install the driver updates from www.dell.com/support.
Intel Trusted Execution Engine Interface
In the Device Manager, check if the Intel Trusted Execution Engine Interface driver is installed.
Install the driver update from www.dell.com/support.
Intel Virtual Button driver
In the Device Manager, check if the Intel Virtual Button driver is installed.
Install the driver updates from www.dell.com/support.
Wireless and Bluetooth drivers
In the Device Manager, check if the network card driver is installed.
Install the driver updates from www.dell.com/support.
In the Device Manager, check if the Bluetooth driver is installed.
Install the driver updates from www.dell.com/support.
3
Device drivers 33
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: 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.
Topics:
•BIOS overview
•Entering BIOS setup program
•Navigation keys
•Boot Sequence
•System setup options
•System and setup password
BIOS overview
The BIOS manages data flow between the computer's operating system and attached devices such as hard disk, video adapter, keyboard,
mouse, and printer.
Entering BIOS setup program
Steps
1. Turn on (or restart) your computer.
2. During POST, when the DELL logo is displayed, watch for the F2 prompt to appear, and then press F2 immediately.
NOTE: The F2 prompt indicates that the keyboard is initialized. This prompt can appear very quickly, so you must
watch for it, and then press F2. If you press F2 before the F2 prompt, this keystroke is lost. If you wait too long and
the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the desktop. Then, turn off your computer and try
again.
Navigation keys
NOTE: For most of the System Setup options, changes that you make are recorded but do not take effect until you
restart the system.
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.
4
34 System setup
Keys Navigation
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)
NOTE: XXX denotes the SATA drive number.
• Optical Drive (if available)
• SATA Hard Drive (if available)
• Diagnostics
The boot sequence screen also displays the option to access the System Setup screen.
System setup options
NOTE: Depending on this computer and its installed devices, the items that are listed in this section may or may not be
displayed.
Table 2. System setup options—System information menu
Overview
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.
Ownership Tag Displays the ownership 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.
Battery Displays the battery health information.
Primary Displays the primary battery.
Battery Level Displays the battery level.
Battery State Displays the battery state.
Health Displays the battery health.
AC Adapter Displays whether an AC adapter is installed.
Processor Information
Processor Type Displays the processor type.
Maximum Clock Speed Displays the maximum processor clock speed.
System setup 35
Table 2. System setup options—System information menu(continued)
Overview
Core Count Displays the number of cores on the processor.
Processor L2 Cache Displays the processor L2 Cache size.
Processor ID Displays the processor identification code.
Processor L3 Cache Displays the processor L3 Cache size.
Current Clock Speed Displays the current processor clock speed.
Minimum Clock Speed Displays the minimum processor clock speed.
Microcode Version Displays the microcode version.
Intel Hyper-Threading Capable Displays whether the processor is Hyper-Threading (HT) capable.
64-Bit Technology Displays whether 64-bit technology is used.
Memory Information
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 that is used for the memory.
Device Information
Video Controller Displays the integrate graphics information of the computer.
Video BIOS Version Displays the video BIOS version of the computer.
Video Memory Displays the video memory information of the computer.
Panel Type Displays the Panel Type of the computer.
Native Resolution Displays the native resolution of the computer.
Audio Controller Displays the audio controller information of the computer.
Wi-Fi Device Displays the wireless device information of the computer.
Bluetooth Device Displays the Bluetooth device information of the computer.
Table 3. System setup options—Boot options menu
Boot options
Advanced Boot Options
Enable UEFI Network Stack Enables or disables UEFI Network Stack.
Default: OFF.
Boot Mode
Boot Mode: UEFI only Displays the boot mode of this computer.
Enable Boot Devices Enables or disables boot devices for this computer.
Boot Sequence Displays the boot sequence.
BIOS Setup Advanced Mode Enables or disables advanced BIOS settings.
Default: ON.
UEFI Boot Path Security Enables or disables the system to prompt the user to enter the Admin password
when booting a UEFI boot path from the F12 boot menu.
Default: Always Except Internal HDD.
36 System setup
Table 4. System setup options—System Configuration menu
System Configuration
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.
Storage Interface
Port Enablement Enables the selected onboard drives.
SATA Operation Configures operating mode of the integrated SATA hard drive controller.
Default: RAID. SATA is configured to support RAID (Intel Rapid Restore Technology).
Drive Information Displays the information of various onboard drives.
Enable Audio Enables or disables all integrated audio controller.
Default: ON.
Enable Microphone Enables or disables microphone.
Default: ON.
Enable Internal Speaker Enables or disables internal speaker.
Default: ON.
USB Configuration
Enable Boot Support Enables or disables booting from USB mass storage devices such as external hard
drive, optical drive, and USB drive.
Default: ON.
Enable External USB Ports Enables or disables USB ports to be functional in an operating system environment.
Default: ON.
Enable Thunderbolt Technology Support Enables or disables Thunderbolt Technology Support.
Default: ON.
Enable Thunderbolt Boot Support Enables or disables Thunderbolt Boot Support.
Default: OFF.
Miscellaneous Devices Enables or disables various onboard devices.
Enable Camera Enables or disables the camera.
Default: ON.
Touchscreen Enables or disables the touchscreen for the operating system.
NOTE: Touchscreen will always work in the BIOS setup irrespective of
this setting.
Default: ON.
Enable Fingerprint Reader Device Enables or disables the Fingerprint Reader Device.
Default: ON.
Enable Fingerprint Reader Single Sign On Enables or disables the Fingerprint Reader Device's Single Sign On capability.
Default: ON.
Enable MediaCard Enables to switch all media cards On/Off or set the media card to read-only state.
Default: Enable Secure Digital (SD) Card.
Keyboard Illumination Configures the operating mode of the keyboard illumination feature.
System setup 37
Table 4. System setup options—System Configuration menu(continued)
System Configuration
Default: Bright. Enable the keyboard illumination feature at 100% brightness level.
Keyboard Backlight Timeout on AC Configures the timeout value for the keyboard when an AC adapter is connected to
the computer. The keyboard backlight timeout value is only effect when the
backlight is enabled.
Default: 10 seconds.
Keyboard Backlight Timeout on Battery Configures the timeout value for the keyboard when the computer is running on
battery. The keyboard backlight timeout value is only effect when the backlight is
enabled.
Default: 10 seconds.
Table 5. System setup options—Video menu
Video
LCD Brightness
Brightness on battery power Sets the screen brightness when the computer is running on battery power.
Brightness on AC power Sets the screen brightness when the computer is running on AC power.
Table 6. System setup options—Security menu
Security
Enable Admin Setup Lockout Enables or disables the user from entering BIOS Setup when an Admin Password is
set.
Default: OFF.
Password Bypass Bypass the System (Boot) Password and the internal hard drive password prompts
during a system restart.
Default: Disabled.
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.
Non-Admin Setup Changes
Allow Wireless Switch Changes Enables or disables changes to the setup option when an Administrator password is
set.
Default: OFF.
Enable UEFI Capsule Firmware Updates Enables or disables BIOS updates through UEFI capsule update packages.
Absolute Enables, disables or permanently disable the BIOS module interface of the optional
Absolute Persistence Module service from Absolute Software.
Default: Enable Absolute.
TPM 2.0 Security On Select whether or not the Trusted Platform Model (TPM) is visible to the OS.
Default: ON.
PPI Bypass for Enable Commands Enables or disables the OS to skip BIOS Physical Presence Interface (PPI) user
prompts when issuing TPM PPI enabled and activate commands.
Default: OFF.
PPI Bypass for Disable Commands Enables or disables The OS to skip BIOS PPI user prompts when issuing TPM PPI
Disable and Deactivate commands.
Default: OFF.
38 System setup
Table 6. System setup options—Security menu(continued)
Security
PPI Bypass for Clear Commands Enables or disables the operating system to skip BIOS Physical Presence Interface
(PPI) user prompts when issuing the Clear command.
Default: OFF.
Attestation Enables Enables to control whether the TPM Endorsement Hierarchy is available to the OS.
Disabling this setting restricts the ability to use the TPM for signature operations.
Default: ON.
Key Storage Enable Enables to control whether the TPM Endorsement Hierarchy is available to the OS.
Disabling this setting restricts the ability to use the TPM for storing owner data.
Default: ON.
SHA-256 Enables or disables the BIOS and the TPM to use the SHA-256 hash algorithm to
extend measurements into the TPM PCRs during BIOS boot.
Default: ON.
Clear Enables or disables the computer to clear the PTT owner information, and returns
the PTT to the default state.
Default: OFF.
TPM State Enables or disables the TPM. This is the normal operating state for the TPM when
you want to use its complete array of capabilities.
Default: Enabled.
Intel SGX Enables or disables the Intel Software Guard Extensions (SGX) to provide a secured
environment for running code/storing sensitive information.
Default: Software Control
SMM Security Mitigation Enables or disables additional UEFI SMM Security Mitigation protections.
Default: OFF.
NOTE: This feature may cause compatibility issues or loss of
functionality with some legacy tools and applications.
Enable Strong Passwords Enables or disables strong passwords.
Default: OFF.
Password Configuration Control the minimum and maximum number of characters that are allowed for Admin
and System passwords.
Admin Password Sets, Changes, or deletes the administrator (admin) password (sometimes called the
"setup" password).
System Password Sets, Changes, or deletes the system password.
Enable Master Password Lockout Enables or disables the master password support.
Default: OFF.
Table 7. System setup options—Secure Boot menu
Secure Boot
Enable Secure Boot Enables or disables the computer to boos using only validated boot software.
Default: OFF.
NOTE: For Secure Boot to be enabled, the computer needs to be in UEFI
boot mode and the Enable Legacy Option ROMs option needs to be
turned off.
System setup 39
Table 7. System setup options—Secure Boot menu(continued)
Secure Boot
Secure Boot Mode Selects the Secure Boot operation mode.
Default: Deployed Mode.
NOTE: Deployed Mode should be selected for normal operation of Secure
Boot.
Table 8. System setup options—Expert Key Management menu
Expert Key Management
Enable Custom Mode Enables or disables the keys in the PK, KEK, db, and dbx security key databases to be
modified.
Default: OFF.
Custom Mode Key Management Selects the custom values for expert key management.
Default: PK.
Table 9. System setup options—Performance menu
Performance
Intel Hyper-Threading Technology Enables or disables the Intel Hyper-Threading Technology to use processor resources
more efficiently.
Default: ON.
Intel SpeedStep Enables or disables the Intel SpeedStep Technology to dynamically adjust processor
voltage and core frequency, decreasing average power consumption and heat
production.
Default: ON.
Intel TurboBoost 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.
Multi-Core Support 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.
Enable C-State Control Enables or disables the CPU's ability to enter and exit low-power states.
Default: ON.
Table 10. System setup options—Power Management menu
Power Management
Wake on AC Enables the computer to turn on and go to boot when AC power is supplied to the
computer.
Default: OFF.
Wake on Dell USB-C Dock Enables connecting a Dell USB-C Dock to wake the computer from Standby.
Default: ON.
Auto on Time Enables the computer to automatically power on for defined days and times.
Default: Disabled. The system will not automatically power up.
Battery Charge Configuration Enables the computer to run on battery during power usage hours. Use the below
options to prevent AC power usage between certain times of each day.
40 System setup
Table 10. System setup options—Power Management menu(continued)
Power Management
Default: Adaptive. Battery settings are adaptively optimized based on your typical
battery usage pattern.
Enable Advanced Battery Charge
Configuration
Enables Advanced Battery Charge Configuration from the beginning of the day to a
specified work period. Advanced Battery Charged maximizes battery health while still
supporting heavy use during the work day.
Default: OFF.
Block Sleep Blocks the computer from entering Sleep (S3) mode in the operating system.
Default: OFF.
NOTE: If enabled, the computer will not go to sleep, Intel Rapid Start will
be disabled automatically, and the operating system power option will be
blank if it was set to Sleep.
Peak Shift Enables the computer to run on battery during peak power usage hours.
Default: OFF.
Wireless Radio Control Enables to sense the connection of the computer to a wired network and
subsequently disable the selected wireless radios (WLAN and/or WWAN). Upon
disconnection from the wired network, the selected wireless radios are re-enabled.
Default: OFF.
Wake on LAN Enables or disables the computer to turn on by a special LAN signal.
Default: Disabled.
Intel Speed Shift Technology Enables or disables the Intel Speed Shift Technology support. Setting this option to
enable allows the operating system to select the appropriate processor performance
automatically.
Default: ON.
Lid Switch Enables the computer to power up from the off state whenever the lid is opened.
Default: ON.
Table 11. System setup options—Wireless menu
Wireless
Wireless Device Enable Enable or disable internal WLAN/Bluetooth devices.
WLAN Default: ON.
Bluetooth Default: ON.
Table 12. System setup options—POST Behavior menu
POST Behavior
Numlock Enable Enables or disables Numlock when the computer boots.
Default: ON.
Enable Adapter Warnings Enables the computer to display adapter warning messages during boot.
Default: ON.
Extend BIOS POST Time Configures the BIOS POST (Power-On Self-Test) load time.
Default: 0 seconds.
Fastboot Configures the speed of the UEFI boot process.
System setup 41
Table 12. System setup options—POST Behavior menu(continued)
POST Behavior
Default: Thorough. Performs complete hardware and configuration initialization during
boot.
Fn Lock Options Enables or disables the Fn lock mode.
Default: ON.
Lock Mode Default: Lock Mode Secondary. Lock Mode Secondary = If this option is selected, the
F1-F12 keys scan the code for their secondary functions.
Full Screen Logo Enabled or disabled the computer to display full screen logo if the image match
screen resolution.
Default: OFF.
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.
Mouse/Touchpad Defines how the computer handles mouse and touchpad input.
Default: Touchpad and PS/2 Mouse. Leave the integrated touchapd enabled when an
external PS/2 mouse is present.
Sign of Life
Early Logo Display Display Logo Sign of Life.
Default: ON.
Early Keyboard Backlight Keyboard Backlight Sign of Life.
Default: ON.
MAC Address Pass-Through Replaces the external NIC MAC address (in a supported dock or dongle) with the
selected MAC address from the computer.
Default: System Unique MAC Address.
Table 13. System setup options—Virtualization menu
Virtualization
Intel Virtualization Technology Enables the computer to run a virtual machine monitor (VMM).
Default: ON.
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.
Table 14. System setup options—Maintenance menu
Maintenance
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.
Service Tag Displays the Service Tag of the computer.
BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive Enables the computer to recover from a bad BIOS image, as long as the Boot Block
portion is intact and functioning.
Default: ON.
42 System setup
Table 14. System setup options—Maintenance menu(continued)
Maintenance
NOTE: BIOS recovery is designed to fix the main BIOS block and cannot
work if the Boot Block is damaged. In addition, this feature cannot work
in the event of EC corruption, ME corruption, or a hardware issue. The
recovery image must exist on an unencrypted partition on the drive.
BIOS Auto-Recovery Enables the computer to automatically recover the BIOS without user actions. This
feature requires BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive to be set to Enabled.
Default: OFF.
Start Data Wipe CAUTION: This Secure Wipe Operation deletes information in a way that
it cannot be reconstructed.
If enabled, the BIOS will queue up a data wipe cycle for storage devices that are
connected to the motherboard on the next reboot.
Default: OFF.
Allow BIOS Downgrade Controls flashing of the system firmware to previous revisions.
Default: ON.
Table 15. System setup options—System Logs menu
System Logs
Power Event Log Displays Power events.
Default: Keep.
BIOS Event Log Displays BIOS events.
Default: Keep.
Thermal Event Log Displays Thermal events.
Default: Keep.
Table 16. System setup options—SupportAssist menu
SupportAssist
Dell Auto operating system Recovery
Threshold
Controls the automatic boot flow for SupportAssist System Resolution Console and
for Dell operating system Recovery tool.
Default: 2.
SupportAssist operating system Recovery Enables or disables the boot flow for SupportAssist operating system Recovery tool
in the even of certain system errors.
Default: ON.
System and setup password
Table 17. 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.
System setup 43
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.
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 F2 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 allowed.
• Only the following special characters are allowed: 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 prompts you to save the changes.
5. Press Y to save the changes.
The computer reboots.
Deleting or changing an existing system setup password
Prerequisites
Ensure that the Password Status is Unlocked (in the System Setup) before attempting to delete or change the existing System and
Setup password. You cannot delete or change an existing System or Setup password, if the Password Status is Locked.
About this task
To enter the System Setup, press F2 immediately after a power-on or reboot.
Steps
1. In the System BIOS or System Setup screen, select System Security and press Enter.
The System Security screen is displayed.
2. In the System Security screen, verify that Password Status is Unlocked.
3. Select System Password, alter or delete the existing system password and press Enter or Tab.
4. Select Setup Password, alter or delete the existing setup password and press Enter or Tab.
NOTE: If you change the System and/or Setup password, re enter the new password when prompted. If you delete
the System and Setup password, confirm the deletion when prompted.
5. Press Esc and a message prompts you to save the changes.
6. Press Y to save the changes and exit from System Setup.
The computer restarts.
44 System setup
Clearing CMOS settings
About this task
CAUTION: Clearing CMOS settings will reset the BIOS settings on your computer.
Steps
1. Remove the base cover.
2. Disconnect the battery cable from the system board.
3. Wait for one minute.
4. Connect the battery cable to the system board.
5. Replace the base cover.
Clearing BIOS (System Setup) and System passwords
About this task
To clear the system or BIOS passwords, contact Dell technical support as described at www.dell.com/contactdell.
NOTE: For information on how to reset Windows or application passwords, refer to the documentation accompanying
Windows or your application.
System setup 45
Troubleshooting
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 Resolve Hardware Issues With Built-in and Online Diagnostics (SupportAssist ePSA, ePSA or PSA Error
Codes) .
Running the SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance
Check
Steps
1. Turn on your computer.
2. As the computer boots, press the F12 key as the Dell logo appears.
3. On the boot menu screen, select the Diagnostics option.
4. Click the arrow at the bottom left corner.
Diagnostics front page is displayed.
5. Click the arrow in the lower-right corner to go to the page listing.
The items detected are listed.
6. To run a diagnostic test on a specific device, press Esc and click Yes to stop the diagnostic test.
7. Select the device from the left pane and click Run Tests.
8. If there are any issues, error codes are displayed.
Note the error code and validation number and contact Dell.
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.
5
46 Troubleshooting
For more information about the Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery, see Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery User's Guide at www.dell.com/
support.
Flashing BIOS (USB key)
Steps
1. Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 7 in "Flashing the BIOS" to download the latest BIOS setup program file.
2. Create a bootable USB drive. For more information see the knowledge base article SLN143196 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 when the Dell logo is displayed on the screen.
6. Boot to the USB drive from the One Time Boot Menu.
7. Type the BIOS setup program filename and press Enter.
8. The BIOS Update Utility appears. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the BIOS update.
Flashing the BIOS
About this task
You may need to flash (update) the BIOS when an update is available or when you replace the system board.
Follow these steps to flash the BIOS:
Steps
1. Turn on your computer.
2. Go to www.dell.com/support.
3. Click Product support, enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit.
NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model.
4. Click Drivers & downloads > Find it myself.
5. Select the operating system installed on your computer.
6. Scroll down the page and expand BIOS.
7. Click Download to download the latest version of the BIOS for your computer.
8. After the download is complete, navigate to the folder where you saved the BIOS update file.
9. Double-click the BIOS update file icon and follow the instructions on the screen.
Backup media and recovery options
It is recommended to create a recovery drive to troubleshoot and fix problems that may occur with Windows. Dell proposes multiple
options for recovering Windows operating system on your Dell PC. For more information. see Dell Windows Backup Media and Recovery
Options.
WiFi power cycle
About this task
If your computer is unable to access the internet due to WiFi connectivity issues a WiFi power cycle procedure may be performed. The
following procedure provides the instructions on how to conduct a WiFi power cycle:
NOTE: Some ISPs (Internet Service Providers) provide a modem/router combo device.
Steps
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Turn off the modem.
Troubleshooting 47
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.
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
removed. The following procedure provides the instructions on how to conduct flea power release:
Steps
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the battery.
4. Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds to drain the flea power.
5. Replace the battery.
6. Replace the base cover.
7. Turn on your computer.
48 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 18. Self-help resources
Self-help resources Resource location
Information about Dell products and services www.dell.com
My Dell
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
Troubleshooting information, user manuals, set up instructions,
product specifications, technical help blogs, drivers, software
updates, and so on.
www.dell.com/support
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.
Learn and know the following 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
See Me and My Dell at www.dell.com/support/manuals.
To locate the Me and My Dell relevant to your product, identify
your product through one of the following:
• 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.
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.
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