Table of Contents
- Inspiron 7400 Service Manual
- Working inside your computer
- Removing and installing components
- Drivers and downloads
- System setup
- Troubleshooting
- Getting help and contacting Dell
DELL 7400 User Manual
Displayed below is the user manual for 7400 by DELL which is a product in the Notebooks category. This manual has pages.
Related Manuals
Inspiron 7400
Service Manual
Regulatory Model: P130G
Regulatory Type: P130G003
September 2020
Rev. A00
Notes, cautions, and warnings
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your product.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid
the problem.
WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
© 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.
Chapter 1: Working inside your computer...................................................................................... 6
Before working inside your computer.............................................................................................................................6
Safety instructions.............................................................................................................................................................. 6
Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection......................................................................................................................7
ESD field service kit ........................................................................................................................................................... 7
Transporting sensitive components................................................................................................................................ 8
After working inside your computer................................................................................................................................8
Chapter 2: Removing and installing components........................................................................... 9
Recommended tools........................................................................................................................................................... 9
Screw list............................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Major components of Inspiron 7400..............................................................................................................................10
Base cover........................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Removing the base cover...........................................................................................................................................12
Installing the base cover.............................................................................................................................................14
Battery..................................................................................................................................................................................16
Lithium-ion battery precautions............................................................................................................................... 16
Removing the 4-cell battery...................................................................................................................................... 17
Installing the 4-cell battery........................................................................................................................................ 18
Removing the 6-cell battery......................................................................................................................................18
Installing the 6-cell battery....................................................................................................................................... 20
Solid-state drive................................................................................................................................................................. 21
Removing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive..............................................................................................................21
Installing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive............................................................................................................... 22
Removing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10............................................................................24
Installing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10..............................................................................25
Heat sink..............................................................................................................................................................................27
Removing the heat sink..............................................................................................................................................27
Installing the heat sink................................................................................................................................................28
Fan........................................................................................................................................................................................ 29
Removing the fan (4-cell battery).......................................................................................................................... 29
Installing the fan (4-cell battery).............................................................................................................................30
Removing the fan (6-cell battery)........................................................................................................................... 31
Installing the fan (6-cell battery).............................................................................................................................32
Speakers.............................................................................................................................................................................. 33
Removing the speakers..............................................................................................................................................33
Installing the speakers................................................................................................................................................ 34
Display assembly................................................................................................................................................................36
Removing the display assembly............................................................................................................................... 36
Installing the display assembly..................................................................................................................................37
Power-adapter port..........................................................................................................................................................40
Removing the power-adapter port......................................................................................................................... 40
Installing the power-adapter port.............................................................................................................................41
Coin-cell battery................................................................................................................................................................ 42
Contents
Contents 3
Removing the coin-cell battery................................................................................................................................42
Installing the coin-cell battery.................................................................................................................................. 43
Antenna module................................................................................................................................................................. 43
Removing the antenna module.................................................................................................................................43
Installing the antenna module...................................................................................................................................45
Touchpad.............................................................................................................................................................................47
Removing the touchpad............................................................................................................................................. 47
Installing the touchpad............................................................................................................................................... 48
I/O board.............................................................................................................................................................................49
Removing the I/O board............................................................................................................................................ 49
Installing the IO board................................................................................................................................................ 50
Power button...................................................................................................................................................................... 51
Removing the power-button with optional fingerprint reader.......................................................................... 51
Installing the power button........................................................................................................................................51
Fingerprint-reader board................................................................................................................................................. 52
Removing the fingerprint-reader board................................................................................................................. 52
Installing the fingerprint-reader board................................................................................................................... 53
System board..................................................................................................................................................................... 54
Removing the system board..................................................................................................................................... 54
Installing the system board....................................................................................................................................... 57
Palm-rest and keyboard assembly................................................................................................................................ 60
Removing the palm-rest and keyboard assembly................................................................................................60
Installing the palm-rest and keyboard assembly................................................................................................... 61
Chapter 3: Drivers and downloads............................................................................................... 63
Chapter 4: System setup............................................................................................................. 64
Entering BIOS setup program........................................................................................................................................ 64
Navigation keys..................................................................................................................................................................64
One time boot menu.........................................................................................................................................................65
System setup options.......................................................................................................................................................65
Updating the BIOS in Windows .................................................................................................................................... 69
Updating BIOS on systems with BitLocker enabled............................................................................................70
Updating your system BIOS using a USB flash drive..........................................................................................70
Flashing the BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu............................................................................................. 71
System and setup password...........................................................................................................................................74
Assigning a system setup password........................................................................................................................74
Deleting or changing an existing system setup password................................................................................. 75
Clearing CMOS settings.............................................................................................................................................75
Clearing BIOS (System Setup) and System passwords.....................................................................................76
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting......................................................................................................... 77
Locate the Service Tag or Express Service Code of your Dell computer .............................................. 77
System diagnostic lights.................................................................................................................................................. 77
SupportAssist diagnostics............................................................................................................................................... 78
Recovering the operating system..................................................................................................................................78
Flashing BIOS (USB key).................................................................................................................................................79
Flashing the BIOS..............................................................................................................................................................79
WiFi power cycle................................................................................................................................................................79
4Contents
Flea power release............................................................................................................................................................ 80
Chapter 6: Getting help and contacting Dell.................................................................................81
Contents 5
Working inside your computer
Before working inside your computer
About this task
NOTE: The images in this document may differ from your computer depending on the configuration you ordered.
Steps
1. Save and close all open files and exit all open applications.
2. Shut down your computer. Click Start > Power > Shut down.
NOTE: If you are using a different operating system, see the documentation of your operating system for shut-down
instructions.
3. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.
4. Disconnect all attached network devices and peripherals, such as keyboard, mouse, and monitor from your computer.
CAUTION: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug the
cable from the network device.
5. Remove any media card and optical disc from your computer, if applicable.
Safety instructions
Use the following safety guidelines to protect your computer from potential damage and to ensure your personal safety. Unless
otherwise noted, each procedure included in this document assumes that you have read the safety information that shipped
with your computer.
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that is shipped with your
computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/
regulatory_compliance.
WARNING: Disconnect your computer from all power sources before opening the computer cover or panels.
After you finish working inside the computer, replace all covers, panels, and screws before connecting your
computer to an electrical outlet.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the computer, ensure that the work surface is flat, dry, and clean.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the components and cards, handle them by their edges, and avoid touching the
pins and the contacts.
CAUTION: You should only perform troubleshooting and repairs as authorized or directed by the Dell technical
assistance team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. See the
safety instructions that is shipped with the product or at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
CAUTION: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal
surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal
surface to dissipate static electricity which could harm internal components.
1
6 Working inside your computer
CAUTION: When you disconnect a cable, pull it by its connector or its pull tab, not the cable itself. Some cables
have connectors with locking tabs or thumbscrews that you must disengage before disconnecting the cable.
When disconnecting cables, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending the connector pins. When connecting
cables, ensure that the ports and the connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
CAUTION: Press and eject any installed card from the media-card reader.
NOTE: The color of your computer and certain components may appear differently than shown in this document.
Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection
ESD is a major concern when you handle electronic components, especially sensitive components such as expansion cards,
processors, memory DIMMs, and system boards. Very slight charges can damage circuits in ways that may not be obvious, such
as intermittent problems or a shortened product life span. As the industry pushes for lower power requirements and increased
density, ESD protection is an increasing concern.
Due to the increased density of semiconductors used in recent Dell products, the sensitivity to static damage is now higher than
in previous Dell products. For this reason, some previously approved methods of handling parts are no longer applicable.
Two recognized types of ESD damage are catastrophic and intermittent failures.
●Catastrophic – Catastrophic failures represent approximately 20 percent of ESD-related failures. The damage causes an
immediate and complete loss of device functionality. An example of catastrophic failure is a memory DIMM that has received
a static shock and immediately generates a "No POST/No Video" symptom with a beep code emitted for missing or
nonfunctional memory.
●Intermittent – Intermittent failures represent approximately 80 percent of ESD-related failures. The high rate of
intermittent failures means that most of the time when damage occurs, it is not immediately recognizable. The DIMM
receives a static shock, but the tracing is merely weakened and does not immediately produce outward symptoms related to
the damage. The weakened trace may take weeks or months to melt, and in the meantime may cause degradation of memory
integrity, intermittent memory errors, etc.
The more difficult type of damage to recognize and troubleshoot is the intermittent (also called latent or "walking wounded")
failure.
Perform the following steps to prevent ESD damage:
●Use a wired ESD wrist strap that is properly grounded. The use of wireless anti-static straps is no longer allowed; they do
not provide adequate protection. Touching the chassis before handling parts does not ensure adequate ESD protection on
parts with increased sensitivity to ESD damage.
●Handle all static-sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use anti-static floor pads and workbench pads.
●When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component from the anti-static
packing material until you are ready to install the component. Before unwrapping the anti-static packaging, ensure that you
discharge static electricity from your body.
●Before transporting a static-sensitive component, place it in an anti-static container or packaging.
ESD field service kit
The unmonitored Field Service kit is the most commonly used service kit. Each Field Service kit includes three main components:
anti-static mat, wrist strap, and bonding wire.
Components of an ESD field service kit
The components of an ESD field service kit are:
●Anti-Static Mat – The anti-static mat is dissipative and parts can be placed on it during service procedures. When using an
anti-static mat, your wrist strap should be snug and the bonding wire should be connected to the mat and to any bare metal
on the system being worked on. Once deployed properly, service parts can be removed from the ESD bag and placed directly
on the mat. ESD-sensitive items are safe in your hand, on the ESD mat, in the system, or inside a bag.
●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
Working inside your computer 7
mat, and the hardware is known as bonding. Use only Field Service kits with a wrist strap, mat, and bonding wire. Never use
wireless wrist straps. Always be aware that the internal wires of a wrist strap are prone to damage from normal wear and
tear, and must be checked regularly with a wrist strap tester in order to avoid accidental ESD hardware damage. It is
recommended to test the wrist strap and bonding wire at least once per week.
●ESD Wrist Strap Tester – The wires inside of an ESD strap are prone to damage over time. When using an unmonitored
kit, it is a best practice to regularly test the strap prior to each service call, and at a minimum, test once per week. A wrist
strap tester is the best method for doing this test. If you do not have your own wrist strap tester, check with your regional
office to find out if they have one. To perform the test, plug the wrist-strap's bonding-wire into the tester while it is
strapped to your wrist and push the button to test. A green LED is lit if the test is successful; a red LED is lit and an alarm
sounds if the test fails.
●Insulator Elements – It is critical to keep ESD sensitive devices, such as plastic heat sink casings, away from internal parts
that are insulators and often highly charged.
●Working Environment – Before deploying the ESD Field Service kit, assess the situation at the customer location. For
example, deploying the kit for a server environment is different than for a desktop or portable environment. Servers are
typically installed in a rack within a data center; desktops or portables are typically placed on office desks or cubicles. Always
look for a large open flat work area that is free of clutter and large enough to deploy the ESD kit with additional space to
accommodate the type of system that is being repaired. The workspace should also be free of insulators that can cause an
ESD event. On the work area, insulators such as Styrofoam and other plastics should always be moved at least 12 inches or
30 centimeters away from sensitive parts before physically handling any hardware components
●ESD Packaging – All ESD-sensitive devices must be shipped and received in static-safe packaging. Metal, static-shielded
bags are preferred. However, you should always return the damaged part using the same ESD bag and packaging that the
new part arrived in. The ESD bag should be folded over and taped shut and all the same foam packing material should be
used in the original box that the new part arrived in. ESD-sensitive devices should be removed from packaging only at an
ESD-protected work surface, and parts should never be placed on top of the ESD bag because only the inside of the bag is
shielded. Always place parts in your hand, on the ESD mat, in the system, or inside an anti-static bag.
●Transporting Sensitive Components – When transporting ESD sensitive components such as replacement parts or parts
to be returned to Dell, it is critical to place these parts in anti-static bags for safe transport.
ESD protection summary
It is recommended that all field service technicians use the traditional wired ESD grounding wrist strap and protective anti-static
mat at all times when servicing Dell products. In addition, it is critical that technicians keep sensitive parts separate from all
insulator parts while performing service and that they use anti-static bags for transporting sensitive components.
Transporting sensitive components
When transporting ESD sensitive components such as replacement parts or parts to be returned to Dell, it is critical to place
these parts in anti-static bags for safe transport.
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.
8Working inside your computer
Removing and installing components
NOTE: The images in this document may differ from your computer depending on the configuration you ordered.
Recommended tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
●Phillips screwdriver #0
●Phillips screwdriver #1
●Plastic scribe
Screw list
NOTE: When removing screws from a component, it is recommended to note the screw type, the quantity of screws, and
then place them in a screw storage box. This is to ensure that the correct number of screws and correct screw type is
restored when the component is replaced.
NOTE: Some computers have magnetic surfaces. Ensure that the screws are not left attached to such surfaces when
replacing a component.
NOTE: Screw color may vary with the configuration ordered.
Table 1. Screw list
Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image
Base cover Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x5 4
Base cover Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x3.5+2.5
(captive)
3
4-cell battery Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x2 4
4-cell battery Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M1.6x4 1
6-cell battery Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x3 4
6-cell battery Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M1.6x4.5 1
M.2 2230 solid-state
drive bracket
System board M2x2.5 1
M.2 2280 solid-state
drive/Intel Optane
System board M2x2.5 1
2
Removing and installing components 9
Table 1. Screw list (continued)
Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image
Heat sink System board Captive ●For computers
without discrete
graphics: 4
●For computers with
discrete graphics: 7
Fan Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x3 2
Display assembly Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x4 4
Power-adapter port Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x3 1
Touchpad bracket Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x2 3
Touchpad Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x2 2
I/O board Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M1.6x2.5 1
I/O board Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x2 1
Power-button bracket Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x3 3
Power-button Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x3 2
Wireless-card bracket System board M2x2.5 1
Touchpad Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x2 2
Touchpad bracket Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x2 3
Wireless-card bracket System board M2x3 1
System board Palm-rest and keyboard
assembly
M2x2 1
NOTE: Only on
computers with a
6-cell battery
Major components of Inspiron 7400
The following image shows the major components of Inspiron 7400.
10 Removing and installing components
1. base cover
2. power-adapter port
3. heat sink
4. M.2 2280 solid-state drive
5. M.2 2230 solid-state drive
6. M.2 2230 solid-state drive bracket
7. system board
8. right speaker
9. touchpad
10. display assembly
11. palm-rest and keyboard assembly
12. left speaker
13. I/O board
14. power-button with optional fingerprint reader
15. coin-cell battery
16. fan
17. battery
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.
Removing and installing components 11
Base cover
Removing the base cover
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
About this task
NOTE: Before removing the base cover, ensure that there is no micro-SD card installed in the micro-SD card slot on your
computer.
The following images indicate the location of the base cover and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
12 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 13
Steps
1. Remove the four screws (M2x5) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Loosen the three captive screws (M2x3.5+2.5) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Using a plastic scribe, pry the base cover from the middle and continue to work on the sides to open the base cover.
4. Lift and slide the base cover off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Disconnect the battery cable from the system board.
6. Press and hold the power button for five seconds to ground the computer and drain the flea power.
Installing the base cover
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the base cover and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
14 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 15
Steps
1. Connect the battery cable to the connector on the system board if disconnected.
2. Place and snap the base cover into place on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Tighten the three captive screws (M2x3.5+2.5) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Replace the four screws (M2x5) 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 completely before removing it. Disconnect the AC power adapter from the system and
operate the computer solely on battery power—the battery is fully discharged when the computer no longer
turns on when the power button is pressed.
●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.
16 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 4-cell battery
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
NOTE: The 4-cell battery can be identified by the 52 Wh printout on the left side of the battery.
The following images indicate the location of the 4-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Disconnect the battery cable from the system board, if applicable.
2. Remove the four screws (M2x2) that secure the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Remove the screw (M1.6x4) that secures the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. 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 process.
About this task
NOTE: The 4-cell battery can be identified by the 52 Wh printout on the left side of the battery.
The following images indicate the location of the 4-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Place the battery on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Align the screw holes on the battery to the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Replace the four screws (M2x2) that secure the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Replace the screw (M1.6x4) that secures the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Connect the battery 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.
Removing the 6-cell battery
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
18 Removing and installing components
About this task
NOTE: The 6-cell battery can be identified by the 78 Wh printout on the left side of the battery.
The following images indicate the location of the 6-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the four screws (M2x3) that secure the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Remove the screw (M1.6x4.5) that secures the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Lift the battery off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Lift the thermal tape that covers the battery-cable connector on the system board.
5. Disconnect the battery cable from the system board.
6. Remove the battery from the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Removing and installing components 19
Installing the 6-cell battery
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: The 6-cell battery can be identified by the 78 Wh printout on the left side of the battery.
The following images indicate the location of the 6-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Connect the battery cable to the system board.
2. Adhere the thermal tape that covers the battery-cable connector on the system board.
20 Removing and installing components
CAUTION: Ensure that the battery cable is tucked between the battery and the system board when placing
the battery on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly to avoiding pinching the cable and damaging your
computer.
3. Place the battery on palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Replace the four screws (M2x3) that secure the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Replace the screw (M1.6x4.5) that secures the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Solid-state drive
Removing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2230 solid-state drive installed.
NOTE: The M.2 card installed on your computer will depend on the configuration ordered. Supported card configurations on
the M.2 card slot:
●M.2 2230 solid-state drive + 2230 mounting bracket
●M.2 2280 solid-state drive
●M.2 2280 Intel Optane H10
The following images indicate the location of the M.2 2230 solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Removing and installing components 21
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
2. Peel the thermal tape that covers the M.2230 solid-state drive and bracket.
3. Remove the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the M.2 2230 bracket to the system board.
4. Slide and lift the M.2 2230 bracket off the system board.
5. Slide and lift the M.2 2230 solid-state drive off the system board.
Installing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies if you are installing a M.2 2230 solid-state drive.
NOTE: Depending on the configuration ordered your computer may support the following M.2 cards in the M.2 card slot:
●M.2 2230 solid-state drive + 2230 mounting bracket
22 Removing and installing components
●M.2 2280 solid-state drive
●M.2 2280 Intel Optane H10
The following images indicate the location of the M.2 2230 solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the
installation procedure.
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar off the system board.
2. Align the notch on the M.2 2230 solid-state drive with the tab on the M.2 card slot on the system board.
3. Slide the M.2 2230 solid-state drive into the M.2 card slot on the system board.
4. Place and slide the M.2 2230 bracket on the system board, aligning the notch on the M.2 2230 bracket to the groove on the
M.2 2230 solid-state drive.
5. Replace the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the M.2 2230 bracket to the system board.
6. Adhere the thermal tape over the M.2 2230 solid-state drive and bracket.
7. Place the Mylar over the M.2 2230 solid-state drive.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing and installing components 23
Removing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies only to computers shipped with a M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10 installed.
NOTE: The M.2 card installed on your computer will depend on the configuration ordered. Supported card configurations on
the M.2 card slot:
●M.2 2230 solid-state drive + 2230 mounting bracket
●M.2 2280 solid-state drive
●M.2 2280 Intel Optane H10
The following images indicate the location of the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10 and provides a visual
representation of the removal procedure.
24 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
2. Peel the thermal tape that covers the M.2 2280 solid-state drive.
3. Remove the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10 to the palm-rest and keyboard
assembly.
4. Slide and remove the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10 from the M.2 card slot on the system board.
Installing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies if you are installing a M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10.
NOTE: Depending on the configuration ordered your computer may support the following M.2 cards in the M.2 card slot:
●M.2 2230 solid-state drive + 2230 mounting bracket
●M.2 2280 solid-state drive
●M.2 2280 Intel Optane H10
The following images indicate the location of the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10 and provides a visual
representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 25
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
2. Align the notch on the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10 with the tab on the M.2 card slot on the system board.
3. Slide the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10 into the M.2 card slot on the system board.
4. Replace the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10 to the palm-rest and keyboard
assembly.
5. Adhere the thermal tape that covers the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10.
6. Place the Mylar over the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
26 Removing and installing components
Heat sink
Removing the heat sink
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
CAUTION: The heat sink may become hot during normal operation. Allow sufficient time for the heat sink to cool
before you touch it.
CAUTION: For maximum cooling of the processor, do not touch the heat transfer areas on the heat sink. The oils
in your skin can reduce the heat transfer capability of the thermal grease.
NOTE: For computers with discrete graphics the heat sink will have 7 captive screws, for computers without discrete
graphics, the heat sink will have 4 captive screws.
The following images indicate the location of the heat sink and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 27
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
NOTE: The number of screws varies depending on the configuration ordered.
2. In reverse sequential order (4>3>2>1) loosen the four captive screws that secure the heat sink to the system board.
3. Lift the heat sink from the system board.
Installing the heat sink
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: If either the system board or the heat sink is replaced, use the thermal grease provided in the kit to ensure that
thermal conductivity is achieved.
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: For computers with discrete graphics the heat sink will have 7 captive screws, for computers without discrete
graphics, the heat sink will have 4 captive screws.
The following images indicate the location of the heat sink and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
28 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Place the heat sink on the system board.
2. In sequential order (1>2>3>4) tighten the four captive screws that secure the heat sink to the system board.
NOTE: The number of screws varies depending on the configuration ordered.
3. Place the Mylar over the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Fan
Removing the fan (4-cell battery)
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
Removing and installing components 29
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the fan (4-cell battery) and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
2. Remove the two screws (M2x3) that secure the fan to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.
4. Lift the fan from the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the fan (4-cell battery)
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the fan (4-cell battery) and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
30 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
2. Place the fan on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Align the screw holes on the fan to the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Replace the two screws (M2x3) that secure the fan to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Connect the fan cable to the connector on the system board.
6. Place the Mylar over the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing the fan (6-cell battery)
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 fan (6-cell battery) and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Removing and installing components 31
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
2. Remove the two screws (M2x3) that secure the fan to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.
4. Lift the fan from the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the fan (6-cell battery)
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the fan (6-cell battery) and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
32 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
2. Place the fan on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Align the screw holes on the fan to the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Replace the two screws (M2x3) that secure the fan to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Connect the fan cable to the connector on the system board.
6. Place the Mylar over the system board.
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.
3. Remove the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the speakers and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 33
Steps
1. Open the latch and disconnect the touchpad cable from the system board.
2. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard cable from the system board.
3. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard-backlight cable from the system board.
4. Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.
5. Lift the right speaker off the palm-rest and keyboard asssembly.
6. Peel the tapes that secure the speaker cable to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
NOTE: Note the routing of the speaker cables before peeling the tapes that secure the speaker cable to the palm-rest
and keyboard assembly.
7. Lift the speakers along with its cable 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 process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the speakers and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
34 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Using the alignment posts, place the speakers on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
NOTE: Ensure that the alignment posts are threaded through the rubber grommets on the speaker.
2. Adhere the tapes that secure the cable to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Connect the speaker cable to the connector on the system board.
4. Connect the keyboard cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch.
5. Connect the keyboard-backlight cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch.
6. Connect the touchpad cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch.
7. Place the Mylar that covers the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
2. Install the base cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing and installing components 35
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 provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
36 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Remove the two screws (M2x4) that secure the left-display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Pry open the left-display hinge.
3. Lift the Mylar off the system board.
4. Peel the tape that secures the display-cable latch to the system board.
5. Lift the latch and disconnect the display cable from the system board.
6. Remove the two screws (M2x4) that secure the right-display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
7. Pry open the right-display hinge.
8. Lift the display assembly from the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the display, do not slide the palm-rest and keyboard assembly over the display
assembly.
9. After performing the above steps, you are left with the display assembly.
Installing the display assembly
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the display assembly and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 37
38 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Place the display assembly on a clean and flat surface with the display panel facing up.
2. Place the palm-rest and keyboard assembly under the display hinges.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the display, do not slide the palm-rest and keyboard assembly over the display
assembly.
3. Lift the Mylar from the system board.
4. Close the right-display hinge and align the screw holes on the right-display hinge with the screw holes on the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
5. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the right-display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Connect the display cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch.
7. Adhere the tape that secures the display-cable latch to the system board.
8. Close the left-display hinge and align the screw holes on the left-display hinge with the screw holes on the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly.
9. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the left-display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
10. Place the Mylar over the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing and installing components 39
Power-adapter port
Removing the power-adapter port
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 power-adapter port and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
2. Remove the two screws (M2x4) that secure the right-display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Pry open the right-display hinge.
4. Disconnect the power-adapter port from the system board.
40 Removing and installing components
5. Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the power-adapter to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Lift the power-adapter port from its slot on 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 process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the power-adapter port and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
2. Place the power-adapter port into its slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Align the screw hole on the power-adapter port to the screw hole on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the power-adapter port to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Connect the power-adapter port to the connector on the system board.
Removing and installing components 41
6. Close the right-display hinge and align the screw holes on the right-display hinge with the screw holes on the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly.
7. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the right-display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
8. Place the Mylar that covers the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Coin-cell battery
Removing the coin-cell battery
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the coin-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Disconnec the coin-cell battery cable from the system board.
2. Remove the coin-cell battery cable from the routing guide on the fan.
3. Using a plastic scribe, pry the coin-cell battery from the the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Lift the coin-cellbattery and its cable from the palm-rest and keyboard assembly
42 Removing and installing components
Installing the coin-cell battery
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the coin-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Steps
1. Adhere the coin-cell battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Route the coin-cell battery cable through the routing guide on the fan.
3. Connect the coin-cell battery cable to the connector on the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
2. Install the base cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Antenna module
Removing the antenna module
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the 6-cell battery.
Removing and installing components 43
About this task
NOTE: The antenna module can only be removed from the location shown on computers shipped with 6-cell battery
configurations.
The following images indicate the location of the antenna module and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Lift the Mylar that covers the system board.
2. Peel the tape that secures the antenna cables to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Remove the antenna cables from the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Remove the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the antenna module to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Lift the antenna module and its cables off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Lift the wireless-card bracket off the system board.
7. Disconnect the antenna cables from the system board.
44 Removing and installing components
8. Peel the tape that secures the antenna cables to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
9. Remove the antenna cables from the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
10. Remove the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the antenna module to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
11. Lift the antenna module and its cables off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the antenna module
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
NOTE: The antenna module can only be installed at the location shown on computers shipped with 6-cell battery
configurations.
The following images indicate the location of the antenna module and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 45
Steps
1. Place the antenna module on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Replace the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the antenna module to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Route the antenna cables through the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Adhere the tape that secures the antenna cables to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Connect the antenna cables to the wireless card on the system board.
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
46 Removing and installing components
Table 2. Antenna-cable color scheme (continued)
Connectors on the wireless card Antenna-cable color
Auxiliary (black triangle) Black
6. Place the wireless-card bracket on the wireless card.
7. Replace the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the system board.
8. Connect the coin-cell battery cable to the system board.
9. Connect the I/O-board cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch.
10. Adhere the tape that secures the I/O-board cable connector latch to the system board.
11. Place the Mylar that covers the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
2. Install the base cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Touchpad
Removing the touchpad
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
4. Remove the antenna module, only for computers with a 6-cell (78 Wh) battery.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the touchpad and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 47
Steps
1. Open the latch and disconnect the the touchpad cable from the system board.
2. Remove the three screws (M2x2) that secure the touchpad bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Lift the touchpad bracket off the touchpad.
4. Remove the two screws (M2x2) that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Peel the tapes that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Lift the touchpad 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 process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the touchpad and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Place the touchpad into its slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
NOTE: Turn the computer over and open the display to ensure that the touchpad is equally aligned on all sides.
2. Align the screw holes on the touchpad to the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Turn the computer over and open the display to ensure that the touchpad is equally aligned on all sides.
4. Close the display and place the computer in the position shown.
5. Replace the two screws (M2x3) that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Adhere the tapes that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
7. Place the touchpad bracket on the touchpad.
8. Align the screw holes on the touchpad bracket to the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
9. Replace the three screws (M2x3) that secure the touchpad bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
10. Connect the touchpad cable to the touchpad and close the latch.
48 Removing and installing components
Next steps
1. Install the antenna module, only for computers with a 6-cell (78 Wh) battery.
2. Install the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
3. Install the base cover.
4. 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.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the I/O board and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the two screws (M2x4) that secure the left-display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Pry open the left-display hinge.
3. Peel the tape that secures the I/O-board cable latch to the I/O board.
4. Open the latch and disconnect the I/O-board cable from the I/O board.
5. Remove the screw (M2x2) that secures the I/O board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Remove the screw (M1.6x2.5) that secures the I/O board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
7. Slide and lift the I/O board off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Removing and installing components 49
Installing the IO board
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the I/O board and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Slide and place the I/O board on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
NOTE: Ensure that the USB port on the I/O board is aligned to the USB port slot on the palm-rest and keyboard
assembly.
2. Align the screw holes on the I/O board to the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Replace the screw (M1.6x2.5) that secures the I/O board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Replace the screw (M2x2) that secures the I/O board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Connect the I/O-board cable to the connector on the I/O board and close the latch.
6. Adhere the tape that secures the I/O-board cable latch to the I/O board.
7. Close the left-display hinge and align the screw holes on the left-display hinge with the screw holes on the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
8. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the left-display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
50 Removing and installing components
Power button
Removing the power-button with optional fingerprint reader
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
4. Remove the fan (4-cell battery) or the fan (6-cell battery), whichever applicable.
5. Remove the I/O board.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the power-button with optional fingerprint reader and provides a visual
representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the three screws (M2x3) that secure the power-button bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Open the latch and disconnect the power-button cable from the fingerprint-reader board.
3. Remove the two screws (M2x3) that secure the power-button with optional fingerprint reader to the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly.
4. Lift the power-button, along with its cable, off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the power button
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
Removing and installing components 51
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the power-button with optional fingerprint reader and provides a visual
representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Using the alignment posts, place the power-button with optional fingerprint reader into its slot on the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly.
2. Replace the two screws (M2x3) that secure the power-button with optional fingerprint reader to the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly.
3. Connect the power-button cable to the fingerprint-reader board and close the latch.
4. Place the power-button bracket on the power-button with optional fingerprint reader.
5. Align the screw holes on the power-button bracket to the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Replace the three screws (M2x3) that secure the power-button bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the IO board.
2. Install the fan (4-cell battery) or the fan (6-cell battery), whichever applicable.
3. Install the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
4. Install the base cover.
5. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Fingerprint-reader board
Removing the fingerprint-reader board
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
52 Removing and installing components
3. Remove the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
4. Remove the fan (4-cell battery) or the fan (6-cell battery), whichever applicable.
5. Remove the I/O board.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the fingerprint-reader board and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
1. Open the latch and disconnect the power-button cable from the fingerprint-reader board.
2. Open the latch and disconnect the fingerprint-reader board cable from the fingerprint-reader board.
3. Slide and remove the fingerprint-reader board from the securing clip on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the fingerprint-reader board
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the fingerprint-reader board and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 53
Steps
1. Place and slide the fingerprint-reader board under the securing clip on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Connect the fingerprint-reader board cable to the fingerprint-reader board and close the latch.
3. Connect the power-button cable to the fingerprint-reader board and close the latch.
Next steps
1. Install the IO board.
2. Install the fan (4-cell battery) or the fan (6-cell battery), whichever applicable.
3. Install the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
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.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
4. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10, whichever applicable.
5. Remove the fan (4-cell battery) or the fan (6-cell battery), whichever applicable.
6. Remove the heat sink.
About this task
The following image indicates the connectors on the system board.
54 Removing and installing components
1. Display cable
2. Power-adapter port cable
3. Speaker cable
4. Keyboard cable
5. Keyboard-backlight cable
6. Touchpad cable
7. I/O-board cable
8. Fingerprint-reader cable
9. Coin-cell battery cable
10. Wireless-card bracket and antenna cables
The following images indicate the location of the system board and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 55
Steps
1. Peel the tape that secures the display-cable latch to the system board.
2. Lift the latch and disconnect the display cable from the system board.
56 Removing and installing components
3. Remove the two screws (M2x4) that secure the right-display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Pry open the right-display hinge.
5. Remove the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the system board.
6. Lift the wireless-card bracket off the system board.
7. Disconnect the antenna cables from the system board.
8. Peel the tape that secures the antenna cables from the system board and move the antenna cables off the system board.
9. Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the system board.
10. Open the latch and disconnect the disconnect the fingerprint-reader board cable from the system board.
11. Peel that tape that secures the I/O-board cable connector latch to the system board.
12. Open the latch and disconnect the I/O-board cable from the system board.
13. Open the latch and disconnect the touchpad cable from the system board.
14. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard cable from the system board.
15. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard-backlight cable from the system board.
16. Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.
17. Disconnect the power-adpater port cable from the system board.
18. Remove the screw (M2x2) that secures the system board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
NOTE: This step only applies to computers shipped with a 6-cell (78 Wh) battery configuration.
19. Lift the system board at angle 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 process.
About this task
The following image indicates the connectors on the system board.
1. Display cable
2. Power-adapter port cable
3. Speaker cable
4. Keyboard cable
5. Keyboard-backlight cable
Removing and installing components 57
6. Touchpad cable
7. I/O-board cable
8. Fingerprint-reader cable
9. Coin-cell battery cable
10. Wireless-card bracket and antenna cables
The following images indicate the location of the system board and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
58 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Align the I/O ports on the system board to the I/O port slots on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Using the alignment posts, slide and at angle and place the system board on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Replace the screw (M2x2) that secures the system board to the palm-restand keyboard assembly.
NOTE: This step only applies to computers shipped with a 6-cell (78 Wh) battery configuration.
NOTE: Do not replace the screw in the location marked Inspiron 7300.
4. Connect the power-adapter port cable to the connector on the system board.
5. Connect the speaker cable to the connector on the system board.
6. Connect the keyboard cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch.
7. Connect the keyboard-backlight cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch.
8. Connect the touchpad cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch.
9. Connect the I/O-board cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch.
10. Adhere the tape that secures the I/O-board cable connector latch to the system board.
11. Connect the fingerprint-reader board cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch, if applicable.
12. Connect the coin-cell battery cable to the system board.
13. Connect the antenna cables to the wireless card on the system board.
The following table provides the antenna-cable color scheme for the wireless card supported by your computer.
Table 3. Antenna-cable color scheme
Connectors on the wireless card Antenna-cable color
Main (white triangle) White
Auxiliary (black triangle) Black
Removing and installing components 59
14. Place the wireless-card bracket on the wireless card.
15. Replace the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the system board.
16. Close the right-display hinge and align the screw holes on the right-display hinge with the screw holes on the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
17. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the right-display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
18. Connect the display cable to the system board and close the latch.
19. Adhere the tape that secures the display-cable connector latch to the systemboard.
Next steps
1. Install the heat sink.
2. Install the fan (4-cell battery) or the fan (6-cell battery), whichever applicable.
3. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive/Intel Optane H10, whichever applicable.
4. Install the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
5. Install the base cover.
6. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
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 or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
4. Remove the fan (4-cell battery) or the fan (6-cell battery), whichever applicable.
5. Remove the display assembly.
6. Remove the fingerprint-reader board.
7. Remove the power-adapter port.
8. Remove the touchpad.
9. Remove the display assembly.
10. Remove the fingerprint-reader board.
11. Remove the coin-cell battery.
12. Remove the antenna module, if applicable.
13. Remove the touchpad.
14. Remove the I/O board.
15. Remove the power button.
16. Remove the system board.
NOTE: The system board can be removed along with the heat sink.
17. Remove the speakers.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and provides a visual representation of the
removal procedure.
60 Removing and installing components
Steps
After performing the pre-requisites you are left with the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the palm-rest and keyboard assembly
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and provides a visual representation of the
installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 61
Steps
Place the palm-rest and keyboard assembly on a flat and clean surface and perform the post-requisites to install the palm-rest
and keyboard assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the speakers.
2. Install the system board.
3. Install the power button.
4. Install the I/O board.
5. Install the touchpad.
6. Install the coin-cell battery.
7. Install the fingerprint-reader board.
8. Install the display assembly.
9. Install the touchpad.
10. Install the antenna module, if applicable.
11. Install the power-adapter port.
12. Install the fingerprint-reader board.
13. Install the display assembly.
14. Install the fan (4-cell battery) or the fan (6-cell battery), whichever applicable.
15. Install the 4-cell battery or the 6-cell battery, whichever applicable.
16. Install the base cover.
17. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
62 Removing and installing components
System setup
CAUTION: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings in the BIOS Setup program.
Certain changes can make your computer work incorrectly.
NOTE: Depending on the computer and its installed devices, the items listed in this section may or may not be displayed.
NOTE: Before you change BIOS Setup program, it is recommended that you write down the BIOS Setup program screen
information for future reference.
Use the BIOS Setup program for the following purposes:
●Get information about the hardware installed in your computer, such as the amount of RAM and the size of the hard drive.
●Change the system configuration information.
●Set or change a user-selectable option, such as the user password, type of hard drive installed, and enabling or disabling
base devices.
Entering BIOS setup program
Steps
1. Turn on your computer.
2. Press F2 immediately to enter the BIOS setup program.
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the desktop. Then,
turn off your computer and try again.
Navigation keys
NOTE: For most of the System Setup options, changes that you make are recorded but do not take effect until you restart
the system.
Table 4. Navigation keys
Keys Navigation
Up arrow Moves to the previous field.
Down arrow Moves to the next field.
Enter Selects a value in the selected field (if applicable) or follow
the link in the field.
Spacebar Expands or collapses a drop-down list, if applicable.
Tab Moves to the next focus area.
NOTE: For the standard graphics browser only.
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.
4
64 System setup
One time boot menu
To enter one time boot menu, turn on your computer, and then press F2 immediately.
NOTE: It is recommended to shutdown the computer if it is on.
The one-time boot menu displays the devices that you can boot from including the diagnostic option. The boot menu options
are:
●Removable Drive (if available)
●STXXXX Drive (if available)
NOTE: XXX denotes the SATA drive number.
●Optical Drive (if available)
●SATA Hard Drive (if available)
●Diagnostics
NOTE: Choosing Diagnostics, will display the ePSA diagnostics screen.
The boot sequence screen also displays the option to access the System Setup screen.
System setup options
NOTE: Depending on this computer and its installed devices, the items listed in this section may or may not appear.
Table 5. System setup options—System information menu
General-System Information
System Information
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.
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 used for the memory.
DIMM A Size Displays the DIMM A memory size.
DIMM B Size Displays the DIMM B memory size.
Processor Information
Processor Type Displays the processor type.
Core Count Displays the number of cores on the processor.
Processor ID Displays the processor identification code.
Current Clock Speed Displays the current processor clock speed.
Minimum Clock Speed Displays the minimum processor clock speed.
System setup 65
Table 5. System setup options—System information menu (continued)
General-System Information
Maximum Clock Speed Displays the maximum processor clock speed.
Intel Smart Cache Displays the Intel Smart Cache size.
HT Capable Displays whether the processor is HyperThreading (HT) capable.
64-Bit Technology Displays whether 64-bit technology is used.
Device Information
Primary HDD Displays the primary hard drive information of the computer.
M.2 SATA SSD Displays the M.2 SATA SSD device information of the computer.
M.2 PCIe SSD-0 Displays the M.2 PCIe SSD information of the computer.
LOM MAC Address Displays the LOM MAC address of the computer.
Video Controller Displays the video controller type of the computer.
dGPU Video Controller Displays the discrete 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.
Battery Information Displays the battery health information.
Boot Sequence
Boot Sequence Displays the boot sequence.
Boot List Option Displays the available boot options.
Advanced Boot Options
Enable Legacy Option ROMs Enable or disable the Legacy Option ROMs.
Enable Attempt Legacy Boot Enable or disable Legacy Boot.
UEFI Boot Path Security Enable or disable the system to prompt the user to enter the Admin password
when booting a UEFI boot path from the F12 boot menu.
Date/Time Displays the current date in MM/DD/YY format and current time in HH:MM:SS
AM/PM format.
Table 6. System setup options—System Configuration menu
System Configuration
Integrated NIC Controls the on-board LAN controller.
Enable UEFI Network Stack Enable or disable UEFI Network Stack.
SATA Operation Configure operating mode of the integrated SATA hard drive controller.
Drives Enable or disable various drives on board.
SMART Reporting Enable or disable SMART Reporting during system startup.
USB Configuration
Enable Boot Support Enable or disable booting from USB mass storage devices such as external
hard drive, optical drive, and USB drive.
66 System setup
Table 6. System setup options—System Configuration menu (continued)
System Configuration
Enable External USB Port Enable or disable booting from USB mass storage devices connected to
external USB port.
Thunderbolt Adapter Configuration Enable or disable Thunderbolt technology support.
Audio Enable or disable the integrated audio controller.
Keyboard Illumination Enables you to choose the operating mode of the keyboard illumination feature.
Keyboard Backlight Timeout on AC When the backlight is enabled, this feature defines the timeout value for the
keyboard backlight when an AC adapter is plugged into the computer.
Keyboard Backlight Timeout on
Battery
When the backlight is enabled, this feature defines the timeout value for the
keyboard backlight when the computer is running only on battery power.
Miscellaneous Devices Enable or disable various onboard devices.
Table 7. System setup options—Video menu
Video
LCD Brightness Set the panel brightness independently for Battery and AC power.
Table 8. System setup options—Security menu
Security
Admin Password Set, change, or delete the administrator password.
System Password Set, change, or delete the system password.
Internal HDD-0 Password Set, change, or delete the internal hard-disk drive password.
Strong Password Enable or disable strong passwords.
Password Configuration Control the minimum and maximum number of characters allowed for Admin
and System passwords.
Password Bypass Bypass the System (Boot) Password and the internal HDD password prompts
during a system restart.
Password Change Enable or disable changes to the System and Hard Disk passwords when an
administrator password is set.
Non-Admin Setup Changes Determines whether changes to the setup option are permitted when an
administrator password is set.
UEFI Capsule Firmware Updates Enable or disable BIOS updates through UEFI capsule update packages.
PTT Security Enable or disable Platform Trust Technology (PTT) visibility to the operating
system.
Computrace(R) Enable or disable the BIOS module interface of the optional Computrace(R)
Service from Absolute Software.
Admin Setup Lockout Enable to prevent users from entering Setup when an Admin Password is set.
Master Password Lockout Disables the master password support. Hard Disk passwords need to be
cleared before changing the setting.
Table 9. System setup options—Secure Boot menu
Secure Boot
Secure Boot Enable Enable or disable the secure boot feature.
Secure Boot Mode Modifies the behavior of Secure Boot to allow evaluation or enforcement of
UEFI driver signatures.
Expert Key Management
Expert Key Management Enable or disable Expert Key Management.
System setup 67
Table 9. System setup options—Secure Boot menu (continued)
Secure Boot
Custom Mode Key Management Select the custom values for expert key management.
Table 10. System setup options—Intel Software Guard Extensions menu
Intel Software Guard Extensions
Intel SGX Enable Enable or disable Intel Software Guard Extensions.
Enclave Memory Size Set the Intel Software Guard Extensions Enclave Reserve Memory Size.
Performance
Multi Core Support Enable multiple cores.
Default: Enabled.
Intel SpeedStep Enable or disable Intel Speedstep Technology.
Default: Enabled.
NOTE: If enabled, the processor clock speed and core voltage are adjusted
dynamically based on the processor load.
C-States Control Enable or disable additional processor sleep states.
Default: Enabled.
Intel TurboBoost Enable or disable Intel TurboBoost mode of the processor.
Default: Enabled.
HyperThread control Enable or disable HyperThreading in the processor.
Default: Enabled.
Power Management
AC Behavior Enables the system to turn on automatically, when AC power is supplied.
Enable Intel Speed Shift Technology Enable or disable Intel Speed Shift Technology.
Auto On Time Enable to set the computer to turn on automatically every day or on a
preselected date and time. This option can be configured only if the Auto On
Time is set to Everyday, Weekdays or Selected Days.
Default: Disabled.
USB Wake Support Enable the USB devices to wake the computer from Standby.
Advanced Battery Charge Configuration Enable Advanced Battery Charge Configuration from the beginning of the day
to a specified work period.
Primary Battery Charge Configuration Set the primary battery charge settings with a preselected custom charge start
and stop.
Default: Adaptive.
POST Behavior
Adapter Warnings Enable adapter warnings.
Default: Enabled.
Numlock Enable Enables the NumLock funcltion when computer boots.
Fn Lock Options Enable or disable the Fn lock mode.
Fastboot Enable to set the speed of the boot process.
Default: Thorough.
Extend BIOS POST Time Configure additional pre-boot delay.
Full Screen Logo Enable or disable to display full screen logo.
68 System setup
Table 10. System setup options—Intel Software Guard Extensions menu (continued)
Intel Software Guard Extensions
Warnings and Errors Sets the boot process to pause when Warnings or Errors are detected.
Sign of Life Indication Enable or disable to indicate during POST time that the power button press is
acknowledged in a manner the user can either hear of feel.
Table 11. System setup options—Virtualization Support menu
Virtualization Support
Virtualization Specify whether a Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) can utilize the additional
hardware capabilities provided by Intel Virtualization Technology.
VT for Direct I/O Specify whether a Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) can utilize the additional
hardware capabilities provided by Intel Virtualization Technology for Direct I/O.
Table 12. System setup options—Wireless menu
Wireless
Wireless Switch Determine which wireless devices can be controlled by the Wireless Switch.
Wireless Device Enable Enable or disable internal wireless devices.
Table 13. System setup options—Maintenance menu
Maintenance
Service Tag Display the system’s Service Tag.
Asset Tag Create a system Asset Tag.
BIOS Downgrade Control flashing of the system firmware to previous revisions.
Data Wipe Enable to securely erase data from all internal storage devices.
BIOS Recovery Enable the user to recover from certain corrupted BIOS conditions from a
recovery file on the user primary hard drive or an external USB key.
Table 14. System setup options—System Logs menu
System Logs
BIOS Events Display BIOS events.
Thermal Events Display Thermal events.
Power Events Display Power events.
Table 15. System setup options—SupportAssist System Resolution menu
SupportAssist System Resolution
Auto OS Recovery Threshold Control the automatic boot flow for SupportAssist System Resolution Console
and for Dell OS Recovery tool.
SupportAssist OS Recovery Enable or disable the boot flow for SupportAssist OS Recovery tool in the even
of certain system errors.
Updating the BIOS in Windows
Prerequisites
It is recommended to update your BIOS (System Setup), when you replace the system board or if an update is available. For
laptops, ensure that your computer battery is fully charged and connected to a power outlet.
System setup 69
About this task
NOTE: If BitLocker is enabled, it must be suspended before updating the system BIOS, and then re-enabled after the BIOS
update is completed.
Steps
1. Restart the computer.
2. Go to www.dell.com/support.
●Enter the Service Tag or Express Service Code and click Submit.
●Click Detect Product and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. If you are unable to detect or find the Service Tag, click Choose from all products.
4. Choose the Products category from the list.
NOTE: Choose the appropriate category to reach the product page.
5. Select your computer model and the Product Support page of your computer appears.
6. Click Get drivers, and then click Drivers and Downloads.
The Drivers and Downloads section is displayed.
7. Click Find it myself.
8. Click BIOS to view the BIOS versions.
9. Identify the latest BIOS file and click Download.
10. Select your preferred download method in the Please select your download method below window, and then click
Download File.
The File Download window appears.
11. Click Save to save the file on your computer.
12. Click Run to install the updated BIOS settings on your computer.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Updating BIOS on systems with BitLocker enabled
CAUTION: If BitLocker is not suspended before updating the BIOS, the next time you reboot the system it will
not recognize the BitLocker key. You will then be prompted to enter the recovery key to progress and the
system will ask for this on each reboot. If the recovery key is not known this can result in data loss or an
unnecessary operating system re-install. For more information on this subject, see Knowledge Article:
https://www.dell.com/support/article/sln153694
Updating your system BIOS using a USB flash drive
About this task
If the computer cannot load into Windows but there is still a need to update the BIOS, download the BIOS file using another
computer and save it to a bootable USB flash drive.
NOTE: You must use a bootable USB flash drive. For more information, see the knowledge base article SLN143196.
Steps
1. Download the BIOS update .exe file to another computer.
2. Copy the .exe file onto the bootable USB flash drive.
3. Insert the USB flash drive into the computer that requires the BIOS update.
4. Restart the computer and press F12 when the Dell logo appears to display the One Time Boot Menu.
5. Using arrow keys, select USB Storage Device and press Enter.
6. The computer restarts to a Diag C:\> prompt.
7. Run the file by typing the complete filename and press Enter.
8. The BIOS Update Utility is displayed. Follow the on-screen instructions.
70 System setup
Figure 1. DOS BIOS Update Screen
Flashing the BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu
Updating your system BIOS using a BIOS update.exe file copied to a FAT32 USB key and booting from the F12 one time boot
menu.
About this task
BIOS Update
You can run the BIOS update file from Windows using a bootable USB key or you can also update the BIOS from the F12 One-
Time boot menu on the system.
Most Dell systems built after 2012 have this capability and you can confirm by booting your system to the F12 One-Time Boot
Menu to see if BIOS FLASH UPDATE is listed as a boot option for your system. If the option is listed, then the BIOS supports
this BIOS update option.
NOTE: Only systems with BIOS Flash Update option in the F12 One-Time Boot Menu can use this function.
Updating from the One-Time Boot Menu
To update your BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu, you will need:
●USB key formatted to the FAT32 file system (key does not have to be bootable)
●BIOS executable file that you downloaded from the Dell Support website and copied to the root of the USB key
●AC power adapter connected to the system
●Functional system battery to flash the BIOS
Perform the following steps to execute the BIOS update flash process from the F12 menu:
CAUTION: Do not power off the system during the BIOS update process. Powering off the system could make
the system fail to boot.
Steps
1. From a power off state, insert the USB key where you copied the flash into a USB port of the system .
2. Power on the system and press the F12 key to access the One-Time Boot Menu, Highlight BIOS Update using the mouse or
arrow keys then press Enter.
System setup 71
3. The flash BIOS menu will open, and then click the Flash from file.
4. Select external USB device.
72 System setup
5. Once the file is selected, Double click the flash target file, then press submit.
6. Click the Update BIOS then system will reboot to flash the BIOS.
System setup 73
7. Once complete, the system will reboot and the BIOS update process is completed.
System and setup password
Table 16. System and setup password
Password type Description
System password Password that you must enter to log on to your system.
Setup password Password that you must enter to access and make changes to
the BIOS settings of your computer.
You can create a system password and a setup password to secure your computer.
CAUTION: The password features provide a basic level of security for the data on your computer.
CAUTION: Anyone can access the data stored on your computer if it is not locked and left unattended.
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.
74 System setup
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.
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. Remove the coin-cell battery.
4. Wait for one minute.
5. Replace the coin-cell battery.
6. Connect the battery cable to the system board.
7. Replace the base cover.
System setup 75
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.
76 System setup
Troubleshooting
Locate the Service Tag or Express Service Code of
your Dell computer
Your Dell computer is uniquely identified by a Service Tag or Express Service Code. To view relevant support resources for your
Dell computer, we recommend entering the Service Tag or Express Service Code at www.dell.com/support.
For more information on how to find the Service Tag for your computer, see Locate the Service Tag for your Dell Laptop.
System diagnostic lights
Power and battery-status light
Indicates the power and battery-charge status.
Solid white—Power adapter is connected and the battery has more than 5% charge.
Amber—Computer is running on battery and the battery has less than 5% charge.
Off
●Power adapter is connected, and the battery is fully charged.
●Computer is running on battery, and the battery has more than 5% 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 17. LED codes
Diagnostic light codes Problem description Recommended solutions
2,1 Processor failure Run the Intel CPU diagnostics tools. If problem
persists, replace the system board.
2,2 System board: BIOS or ROM (Read-Only
Memory) failure
Flash latest BIOS version. If problem persists, replace
the system board.
2,3 No memory or RAM (Random-Access
Memory) detected
Confirm that the memory module is installed properly.
If problem persists, replace the memory module.
2,4 Memory or RAM (Random-Access
Memory) failure
Reset and swap memory modules amongst the slots. If
problem persists, replace the memory module.
2,5 Invalid memory installed Reset and swap memory modules among the slots. If
problem persists, replace the memory module.
2,6 System-board or chipset error Flash latest BIOS version. If problem persists, replace
the system board.
2,7 Display failure Flash latest BIOS version. If problem persists, replace
the system board.
3,1 Coin-cell battery failure Reset the CMOS battery connection. If problem
persists, replace the RTC battery.
5
Troubleshooting 77
Table 17. LED codes (continued)
Diagnostic light codes Problem description Recommended solutions
3,2 PCI, video card/chip failure Replace the system board.
3,3 Recovery image not found Flash latest BIOS version. If problem persists, replace
the system board.
3,4 Recovery image found but invalid Flash latest BIOS version. If problem persists, replace
the system board.
3,5 Power-rail failure EC ran into power sequencing failure. If problem
persists, replace the system board.
3,6 System BIOS Flash incomplete Flash corruption detected by SBIOS. If problem
persists, replace the system board.
3,7 Management Engine (ME) error Timeout waiting on ME to reply to HECI message. If
problem persists, replace the system board.
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.
SupportAssist diagnostics
About this task
The SupportAssist diagnostics (previously known as ePSA diagnostics) performs a complete check of your hardware. The
SupportAssist diagnostics is embedded in the BIOS and is launched by it internally. The SupportAssist diagnostics provides a set
of options for particular devices or device groups. It allows 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 and provide extra information about the failed device(s)
●View status messages that indicate if the tests are completed successfully
●View error messages that indicate if problems were encountered during the test
NOTE: Some tests are meant for specific devices and require user interaction. Ensure that you are present in front of the
computer when the diagnostic tests are performed.
For more information, see SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance Check.
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.
78 Troubleshooting
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.
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.
Troubleshooting 79
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. Disconnect the power adapter from your computer.
3. Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds to drain the flea power.
4. Connect the power adapter to your computer.
5. Turn on your computer.
80 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, setup 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 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 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 and product, and some services may not be available in your country.
NOTE: If you do not have an active internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing
slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.
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