Table of Contents
- XPS 17 9700 Service Manual
- Contents
- Working inside your computer
- Removing and installing components
- Recommended tools
- Screw list
- Major components of XPS 17 9700
- Base cover
- Battery
- Memory modules
- Solid-state drive in SSD1 slot
- Solid-state drive in SSD2 slot
- Fans
- Heat sink
- Removing the heat sink (for computers shipped with integrated graphics card)
- Installing the heat sink (for computers shipped with integrated graphics card)
- Removing the heat sink (for computers shipped with discrete graphics card)
- Installing the heat sink (for computers shipped with discrete graphics card)
- I/O board
- Display assembly
- System board
- Antenna
- Palm-rest and keyboard assembly
- Drivers and downloads
- System setup
- Troubleshooting
- Handling swollen Lithium-ion batteries
- Locate the Service Tag or Express Service Code of your Dell computer
- System diagnostic lights
- SupportAssist diagnostics
- Built-in self-test (BIST)
- Recovering the operating system
- Backup media and recovery options
- WiFi power cycle
- Drain residual flea power (perform hard reset)
- Real Time Clock—RTC reset
- Getting help and contacting Dell
DELL 9700 User Manual
Displayed below is the user manual for 9700 by DELL which is a product in the Notebooks category. This manual has pages.
Related Manuals
XPS 17 9700
Service Manual
Regulatory Model: P92F
Regulatory Type: P92F001
August 2021
Rev. A03
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.
© 2020-2021 Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. All rights reserved. Dell, EMC, and other trademarks are trademarks of Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries.
Other trademarks may be trademarks of their respective owners.
Chapter 1: Working inside your computer...................................................................................... 5
Before working inside your computer.............................................................................................................................5
Safety instructions.............................................................................................................................................................. 5
Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection..................................................................................................................... 6
ESD field service kit ...........................................................................................................................................................6
Transporting sensitive components................................................................................................................................ 7
After working inside your computer................................................................................................................................7
Chapter 2: Removing and installing components........................................................................... 8
Recommended tools........................................................................................................................................................... 8
Screw list............................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Major components of XPS 17 9700............................................................................................................................... 10
Base cover........................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Removing the base cover...........................................................................................................................................12
Installing the base cover.............................................................................................................................................15
Battery..................................................................................................................................................................................16
Lithium-ion battery precautions............................................................................................................................... 16
Removing the battery..................................................................................................................................................17
Installing the battery....................................................................................................................................................18
Memory modules................................................................................................................................................................19
Removing the memory modules............................................................................................................................... 19
Installing the memory modules.................................................................................................................................20
Solid-state drive in SSD1 slot.......................................................................................................................................... 21
Removing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive from the SSD1 slot..........................................................................21
Installing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive in the SSD1 slot.................................................................................22
Removing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD1 slot.........................................................................22
Installing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive in the SSD1 slot.................................................................................23
Solid-state drive in SSD2 slot.........................................................................................................................................24
Removing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive from the SSD2 slot........................................................................ 24
Installing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive in the SSD2 slot................................................................................25
Removing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD2 slot........................................................................ 26
Installing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive in the SSD2 slot................................................................................ 27
Fans...................................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Removing the right fan.............................................................................................................................................. 28
Installing the right fan................................................................................................................................................ 29
Removing the left fan.................................................................................................................................................30
Installing the left fan....................................................................................................................................................31
Heat sink..............................................................................................................................................................................32
Removing the heat sink (for computers shipped with integrated graphics card).......................................32
Installing the heat sink (for computers shipped with integrated graphics card).........................................33
Removing the heat sink (for computers shipped with discrete graphics card)...........................................34
Installing the heat sink (for computers shipped with discrete graphics card).............................................35
I/O board.............................................................................................................................................................................36
Removing the I/O board............................................................................................................................................36
Contents
Contents 3
Installing the I/O board.............................................................................................................................................. 37
Display assembly................................................................................................................................................................38
Removing the display assembly............................................................................................................................... 38
Installing the display assembly..................................................................................................................................40
System board..................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Removing the system board..................................................................................................................................... 43
Installing the system board....................................................................................................................................... 46
Antenna................................................................................................................................................................................49
Removing the antennas............................................................................................................................................. 49
Installing the antennas............................................................................................................................................... 50
Palm-rest and keyboard assembly................................................................................................................................ 52
Removing the palm-rest and keyboard assembly................................................................................................ 52
Installing the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.................................................................................................. 53
Chapter 3: Drivers and downloads............................................................................................... 55
Chapter 4: System setup............................................................................................................. 56
Entering BIOS setup program........................................................................................................................................ 56
Navigation keys................................................................................................................................................................. 56
Boot Sequence.................................................................................................................................................................. 56
One time boot menu......................................................................................................................................................... 57
System setup options.......................................................................................................................................................57
System and setup password...........................................................................................................................................68
Assigning a system setup password....................................................................................................................... 68
Deleting or changing an existing system setup password.................................................................................68
Clearing CMOS settings............................................................................................................................................ 69
Clearing BIOS (System Setup) and System passwords.................................................................................... 69
Updating the BIOS............................................................................................................................................................ 69
Updating the BIOS in Windows................................................................................................................................69
Updating the BIOS using the USB drive in Windows..........................................................................................70
Updating the BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu.....................................................................................70
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting......................................................................................................... 71
Handling swollen Lithium-ion batteries......................................................................................................................... 71
Locate the Service Tag or Express Service Code of your Dell computer ...............................................71
System diagnostic lights.................................................................................................................................................. 72
SupportAssist diagnostics............................................................................................................................................... 73
Built-in self-test (BIST)................................................................................................................................................... 73
System board built-in self-test (M-BIST)..............................................................................................................73
M-BIST........................................................................................................................................................................... 73
LCD Built-in Self Test (BIST)................................................................................................................................... 74
Recovering the operating system..................................................................................................................................74
Backup media and recovery options............................................................................................................................. 74
WiFi power cycle............................................................................................................................................................... 75
Drain residual flea power (perform hard reset)......................................................................................................... 75
Real Time Clock—RTC reset..........................................................................................................................................75
Chapter 6: Getting help and contacting Dell................................................................................ 77
4Contents
Working inside your computer
Before working inside your computer
About this task
NOTE: The images in this document may differ from your computer depending on the configuration you ordered.
Steps
1. Save and close all open files and exit all open applications.
2. Shut down your computer. Click Start > Power > Shut down.
NOTE: If you are using a different operating system, see the documentation of your operating system for shut-down
instructions.
3. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.
4. Disconnect all attached network devices and peripherals, such as keyboard, mouse, and monitor from your computer.
CAUTION: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug the
cable from the network device.
5. Remove any media card and optical disc from your computer, if applicable.
Safety instructions
Use the following safety guidelines to protect your computer from potential damage and to ensure your personal safety. Unless
otherwise noted, each procedure included in this document assumes that you have read the safety information that shipped
with your computer.
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that is shipped with your
computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/
regulatory_compliance.
WARNING: Disconnect your computer from all power sources before opening the computer cover or panels.
After you finish working inside the computer, replace all covers, panels, and screws before connecting your
computer to an electrical outlet.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the computer, ensure that the work surface is flat, dry, and clean.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the components and cards, handle them by their edges, and avoid touching the
pins and the contacts.
CAUTION: You should only perform troubleshooting and repairs as authorized or directed by the Dell technical
assistance team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. See the
safety instructions that is shipped with the product or at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
CAUTION: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal
surface, such as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal
surface to dissipate static electricity which could harm internal components.
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.
1
Working inside your computer 5
When disconnecting cables, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending the connector pins. When connecting
cables, ensure that the ports and the connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
CAUTION: Press and eject any installed card from the media-card reader.
CAUTION: Exercise caution when handling Lithium-ion batteries in laptops. Swollen batteries should not be used
and should be replaced and disposed properly.
NOTE: The color of your computer and certain components may appear differently than shown in this document.
Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection
ESD is a major concern when you handle electronic components, especially sensitive components such as expansion cards,
processors, memory DIMMs, and system boards. Very slight charges can damage circuits in ways that may not be obvious, such
as intermittent problems or a shortened product life span. As the industry pushes for lower power requirements and increased
density, ESD protection is an increasing concern.
Due to the increased density of semiconductors used in recent Dell products, the sensitivity to static damage is now higher than
in previous Dell products. For this reason, some previously approved methods of handling parts are no longer applicable.
Two recognized types of ESD damage are catastrophic and intermittent failures.
●Catastrophic – Catastrophic failures represent approximately 20 percent of ESD-related failures. The damage causes
an immediate and complete loss of device functionality. An example of catastrophic failure is a memory DIMM that has
received a static shock and immediately generates a "No POST/No Video" symptom with a beep code emitted for missing or
nonfunctional memory.
●Intermittent – Intermittent failures represent approximately 80 percent of ESD-related failures. The high rate of
intermittent failures means that most of the time when damage occurs, it is not immediately recognizable. The DIMM
receives a static shock, but the tracing is merely weakened and does not immediately produce outward symptoms related to
the damage. The weakened trace may take weeks or months to melt, and in the meantime may cause degradation of memory
integrity, intermittent memory errors, etc.
The more difficult type of damage to recognize and troubleshoot is the intermittent (also called latent or "walking wounded")
failure.
Perform the following steps to prevent ESD damage:
●Use a wired ESD wrist strap that is properly grounded. The use of wireless anti-static straps is no longer allowed; they do not
provide adequate protection. Touching the chassis before handling parts does not ensure adequate ESD protection on parts
with increased sensitivity to ESD damage.
●Handle all static-sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use anti-static floor pads and workbench pads.
●When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component from the anti-static
packing material until you are ready to install the component. Before unwrapping the anti-static packaging, ensure that you
discharge static electricity from your body.
●Before transporting a static-sensitive component, place it in an anti-static container or packaging.
ESD field service kit
The unmonitored Field Service kit is the most commonly used service kit. Each Field Service kit includes three main components:
anti-static mat, wrist strap, and bonding wire.
Components of an ESD field service kit
The components of an ESD field service kit are:
●Anti-Static Mat – The anti-static mat is dissipative and parts can be placed on it during service procedures. When using an
anti-static mat, your wrist strap should be snug and the bonding wire should be connected to the mat and to any bare metal
on the system being worked on. Once deployed properly, service parts can be removed from the ESD bag and placed directly
on the mat. ESD-sensitive items are safe in your hand, on the ESD mat, in the system, or inside a bag.
●Wrist Strap and Bonding Wire – The wrist strap and bonding wire can be either directly connected between your wrist
and bare metal on the hardware if the ESD mat is not required, or connected to the anti-static mat to protect hardware that
is temporarily placed on the mat. The physical connection of the wrist strap and bonding wire between your skin, the ESD
mat, and the hardware is known as bonding. Use only Field Service kits with a wrist strap, mat, and bonding wire. Never
6Working inside your computer
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.
Working inside your computer 7
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
●Torx #5 (T5) screwdriver
●Plastic scribe
Screw list
NOTE: When removing screws from a component, it is recommended to note the screw type, the quantity of screws, and
then place them in a screw storage box. This is to ensure that the correct number of screws and correct screw type is
restored when the component is replaced.
NOTE: Some computers have magnetic surfaces. Ensure that the screws are not left attached to such 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
Torx M2.5x4 8
Battery System board and
palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2x4 7
Solid-state drive thermal
bracket (SSD1 slot)
System board and
palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2x4
NOTE: This
screw is also
one of the
seven screws
that secures
the battery to
the palm-rest
and keyboard
assembly.
1
Solid-state drive thermal
bracket (SSD2 slot)
Palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2x4
NOTE: This
screw is also
one of the
seven screws
1
2
8 Removing and installing components
Table 1. Screw list (continued)
Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image
that secures
the battery to
the palm-rest
and keyboard
assembly.
Left fan System board and
palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M1.6x4
M2x4
1
2
Right fan System board and
palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M1.6x4
M2x4
1
2
Heat sink (for integrated
graphics card)
System board M2x6.5 4
Heat sink (for discrete
graphics card)
System board M2x6.5 6
I/O board Palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2x4 3
Display-cable bracket Palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2x4 2
Left hinge System board and
palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2.5x6 3
Right hinge System board and
palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2.5x6 3
System board Palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2x4 3
Antenna (left) Palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2x2 4
Antenna (right) Palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2x2 4
Wireless-card bracket System board M2x4 1
USB-port bracket (left) Palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2x4 2
USB-port bracket (right) Palm-rest and
keyboard assembly
M2x4 2
Removing and installing components 9
Major components of XPS 17 9700
The following image shows the major components of XPS 17 9700.
10 Removing and installing components
1. Base cover
2. Battery
3. Solid-state drive 1 thermal bracket
Removing and installing components 11
4. Solid-state drive 1
5. Right fan
6. Display-cable bracket
7. USB Type-C port bracket
8. System board
9. Memory module
10. Right antenna
11. Palm-rest and keyboard assembly
12. Display assembly
13. Left antenna
14. Solid-state drive 2
15. Solid-state drive 2 thermal bracket
16. I/O board
17. USB Type-C port bracket
18. Left fan
19. Heat sink
NOTE: Dell provides a list of components and their part numbers for the original system configuration purchased. These
parts are available according to warranty coverages purchased by the customer. Contact your Dell sales representative for
purchase options.
Base cover
Removing the base cover
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the base cover and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
12 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 13
Steps
1. Remove the eight Torx screws (M2.5x4) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
CAUTION: Do not pull on or pry the base cover from where the hinges are located; doing so may damage the
base cover.
2. Starting from the bottom-left corner, use a plastic scribe to pry the base cover in the direction of the arrows to release the
base cover from the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Grasp the left side and the right side of the base cover and remove the base cover from the palm-rest and keyboard
assembly.
NOTE: The following steps are applicable only if you want to further remove any other component from your computer.
14 Removing and installing components
NOTE: Disconnecting the battery cable, removing the battery, or draining the flea power clears the CMOS and resets
the BIOS settings on your computer.
NOTE: After your computer is reassembled and powered on, it prompts for the Real Time Clock (RTC) reset. When
the RTC reset cycle occurs, the computer restarts several times and then an error message is displayed– "Time of
day not set". Enter the BIOS when this error appears and set the date and time on your computer to resume normal
functionality.
4. Disconnect the battery cable from the system board.
5. Turn your computer over and press the power button for 15 seconds to drain the flea power.
Installing the base cover
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the base cover and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 15
Steps
1. Connect the battery cable to the system board, if applicable.
2. Align the screw holes on the base cover with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly, and then snap the
base cover into place.
3. Replace the eight Torx screws (M2.5x4) 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.
16 Removing and installing components
●Do not apply pressure to the surface of the battery.
●Do not bend the battery.
●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.
●Swollen batteries should not be used and should be replaced and disposed properly. For guidelines on how to
handle and replace swollen Lithium-ion batteries, see Handling swollen Lithium-ion batteries.
Removing the battery
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
NOTE: Removing the battery clears the CMOS and resets the BIOS settings on your computer.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the battery and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Disconnect the battery cable from the system board, if it was not disconnected earlier.
2. Remove the seven screws (M2x4) that secure the solid-state drive thermal bracket and the battery to the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly.
NOTE: The two screws (M2x4) that secure the top of the battery also secure the solid-state drive thermal brackets to
the system board.
3. Lift the battery off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Removing and installing components 17
Installing the battery
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the battery and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Align the screw hole on each solid-state drive thermal bracket with the respective screw hole on the palm-rest and keyboard
assembly.
2. Align the screw holes on the battery with the screw holes on the solid-state thermal brackets and the palm-rest and
keyboard assembly.
NOTE: The two screws (M2x4) that secure the top of the battery also secure the solid-state drive thermal brackets
to the system board. Ensure that the solid-state drive thermal bracket is installed between the battery and the system
board.
3. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the top of the battery and the solid-state drive thermal brackets to the
palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Replace the five screws (M2x4) that secure the bottom of the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Connect the battery cable to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
18 Removing and installing components
Memory modules
Removing the memory modules
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the memory modules and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
Steps
1. Lift the flap to access the memory module.
2. Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing-clips on each end of the memory-module slot until the memory
module pops up.
3. Slide and remove the memory module from the memory-module slot.
NOTE: Repeat step 2 and step 3 to remove another memory from your computer.
Removing and installing components 19
Installing the memory modules
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the memory modules and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Steps
1. Lift the flap to access the memory-module slot.
2. Align the notch on the memory module with the tab on the memory-module slot.
3. Slide the memory module firmly at an angle, into the memory-module slot.
4. Press the memory module down until it clicks into place.
NOTE: If you do not hear the click, remove the memory module and reinstall it.
NOTE: Repeat step 1 to step 4 to install another memory module in your computer.
20 Removing and installing components
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Solid-state drive in SSD1 slot
Removing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive from the SSD1 slot
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the battery.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2230 solid-state drive installed in the SSD1 slot.
NOTE: Depending on the configuration ordered, your computer may support an M.2 2230 solid-state drive or an M.2 2280
solid-state drive in the SSD1 slot.
The following image indicates the location of the M.2 2230 solid-state drive that is installed in the SSD1 slot and provides a
visual representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the screw (M2x4) that secures the solid-state drive thermal bracket and the solid-state drive to the system board.
2. Lift the thermal plate off the solid-state drive.
3. Slide and lift the solid-state drive off the SSD1 slot.
Removing and installing components 21
Installing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive in the SSD1 slot
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2230 solid-state drive installed in SSD1 slot.
NOTE: Depending on the configuration ordered, your computer may support an M.2 2230 solid-state drive or an M.2 2280
solid-state drive in the SSD1 slot.
The following image indicates the location of the M.2 2230 solid-state drive that is installed in the SSD1 slot and provides a
visual representation of the installation procedure.
Steps
1. Align the notch on the solid-state drive with the tab on the SSD1 slot.
2. Slide the solid-state drive into the SSD1 slot.
3. Using the alignment post, place the solid-state thermal bracket over the solid-state drive.
4. Align the screw hole on the solid-state thermal bracket with the screw hole on the system board.
5. Replace the screw (M2x4) that secures the solid-state thermal bracket and the solid-state drive to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the battery.
2. Install the base cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD1 slot
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
22 Removing and installing components
3. Remove the battery.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2280 solid-state drive installed in the SSD1 slot.
NOTE: Depending on the configuration ordered, your computer may support an M.2 2230 solid-state drive or an M.2 2280
solid-state drive in the SSD1 slot.
The following image indicates the location of the M.2 2280 solid-state drive that is installed in SSD1 slot and provides a visual
representation of the removal procedure.
Steps
1. Remove the screw (M2x4) that secures the solid-state drive thermal bracket and the solid-state drive to the system board.
2. Lift the thermal plate off the solid-state drive.
3. Slide and lift the solid-state drive off the SSD1 slot.
Installing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive in the SSD1 slot
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2280 solid-state drive installed in the SSD1 slot.
NOTE: Depending on the configuration ordered, your computer may support an M.2 2230 solid-state drive or an M.2 2280
solid-state drive in the SSD1 slot.
The following image indicates the location of the M.2 2280 solid-state drive that is installed in SSD1 slot and provides a visual
representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 23
Steps
1. Align the notch on the solid-state drive with the tab on the SSD1 slot.
2. Slide the solid-state drive into the SSD1 slot.
3. Using the alignment post, place the solid-state drive thermal bracket over the solid-state drive.
4. Align the screw hole on the solid-state drive thermal bracket with the screw hole on the system board.
5. Replace the screw (M2x4) that secures the solid-state drive thermal bracket and the solid-state drive to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the battery.
2. Install the base cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Solid-state drive in SSD2 slot
Removing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive from the SSD2 slot
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the battery.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2230 solid-state drive installed in the SSD2 slot.
NOTE: Depending on the configuration ordered, your computer may support an M.2 2230 solid-state drive or an M.2 2280
solid-state drive in SSD2 slot.
The following image indicates the location of the M.2 2230 solid-state drive that is installed in the SSD2 slot and provides a
visual representation of the removal procedure.
24 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the solid-state drive to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Slide and lift the solid-state drive off the SSD2 slot on the system board.
Installing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive in the SSD2 slot
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2230 solid-state drive installed in the SSD2 slot.
NOTE: Depending on the configuration ordered, your computer may support an M.2 2230 solid-state drive or an M.2 2280
solid-state drive in the SSD2 slot.
NOTE: Install the solid-state drive mounting bracket, if it is not installed.
The following image indicates the location of the M.2 2230 solid-state drive that is installed in the SSD2 slot and provides a
visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 25
Steps
1. Align the notch on the solid-state drive with the tab on the SSD2 slot.
2. Slide the solid-state drive into the SSD2 slot.
3. Using the alignment post, place the solid-state drive thermal bracket over the solid-state drive.
4. Align the screw hole on the solid-state drive thermal bracket with the screw hole on the system board.
5. Replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the solid-state drive to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the battery.
2. Install the base cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD2 slot
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the battery.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2280 solid-state drive installed in the SSD2 slot.
The following image indicates the location of the M.2 2280 solid-state drive that is installed in the SSD2 slot and provides a
visual representation of the removal procedure.
26 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Remove the screw (M2x4) that secures the solid-state drive thermal bracket and the solid-state drive to the system board.
2. Lift the thermal plate off the solid-state drive.
3. Slide and lift the solid-state drive off the SSD2 slot.
Installing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive in the SSD2 slot
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
NOTE: This procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2280 solid-state drive installed in the SSD2 slot.
The following image indicates the location of the M.2 2280 solid-state drive that is installed in the SSD2 slot and provides a
visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 27
Steps
1. Align the notch on the solid-state drive with the tab on the SSD2 slot.
2. Slide the solid-state drive into the SSD2 slot.
3. Using the alignment post, place the solid-state drive thermal bracket over the solid-state drive.
4. Align the screw hole on the solid-state drive thermal bracket with the screw hole on the system board.
5. Replace the screw (M2x4) that secures the solid-state drive thermal bracket and the solid-state drive to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the battery.
2. Install the base cover.
3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Fans
Removing the right fan
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the right fan (FAN1) and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
28 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Remove the screw (M1.6x4) and the two screws (M2x4) that secure the right fan (FAN1) to the system board and palm-rest
and keyboard assembly.
CAUTION: Do not hold the fan assembly at the center, as it may damage the center bearing.
2. Disconnect the right fan cable from the system board.
3. Lift the right fan (FAN1) off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the right fan
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the right fan (FAN1) and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 29
Steps
1. Connect the right fan cable to the system board.
2. Align the screw holes on the right fan (FAN1) with the screw holes on the system board and palm-rest and keyboard
assembly.
3. Replace the screw (M1.6x4) and the two screws (M2x4) that secure the right fan (FAN1) to the system board and palm-rest
and keyboard assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing the left fan
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the left fan (FAN2) and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
30 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Remove the screw (M1.6x4) and the two screws (M2x4) that secure the left fan (FAN2) to the system board and palm-rest
and keyboard assembly.
CAUTION: Do not hold the fan assembly at the center, as it may damage the center bearing.
2. Disconnect the left fan cable from the system board.
3. Lift the left fan (FAN2) off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the left fan
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the left fan (FAN2) and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 31
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the left fan (FAN2) with the screw holes on the system board and palm-rest and keyboard
assembly.
2. Replace the screw (M1.6x4) and the two screws (M2x4) that secure the left fan (FAN2) to the system board and palm-rest
and keyboard assembly.
3. Connect the left fan cable to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Heat sink
Removing the heat sink (for computers shipped with integrated
graphics card)
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
CAUTION: For maximum cooling of the processor, do not touch the heat transfer areas on the heat sink. The
oils in your skin can reduce the heat transfer capability of the thermal grease.
NOTE: The heat sink may become hot during normal operation. Allow sufficient time for the heat sink to cool before you
touch it.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the heat sink and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
32 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. In reverse sequential order (as indicated by the numbers on the heat sink), remove the four screws (M2x6.5) that secure the
heat sink to the system board.
2. Lift the heat sink off the system board.
Installing the heat sink (for computers shipped with integrated
graphics card)
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
CAUTION: Incorrect alignment of the heat sink can damage the system board and the processor.
NOTE: If either the system board or the heat sink is replaced, use the thermal pad or thermal paste provided in the kit to
ensure that there is thermal conductivity.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the heat sink and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 33
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the heat sink with the screw holes on the system board.
2. In sequential order (as indicated by the numbers on the heat sink), replace the four screws (M2x6.5) that secure the heat
sink to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Removing the heat sink (for computers shipped with discrete
graphics card)
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
CAUTION: For maximum cooling of the processor, do not touch the heat transfer areas on the heat sink. The
oils in your skin can reduce the heat transfer capability of the thermal grease.
NOTE: The heat sink may become hot during normal operation. Allow sufficient time for the heat sink to cool before you
touch it.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the heat sink and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
34 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. In reverse sequential order (as indicated by the numbers on the heat sink), remove the six screws (M2x6.5) that secure the
heat sink to the system board.
2. Lift the heat sink off the system board.
Installing the heat sink (for computers shipped with discrete
graphics card)
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
CAUTION: Incorrect alignment of the heat sink can damage the system board and the processor.
NOTE: If either the system board or the heat sink is replaced, use the thermal pad or thermal paste provided in the kit to
ensure that there is thermal conductivity.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the heat sink and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 35
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the heat sink with the screw holes on the system board.
2. In sequential order (as indicated by the numbers on the heat sink), replace the six screws (M2x6.5) that secure the heat sink
to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
I/O board
Removing the I/O board
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the I/O board and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
36 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Remove the three screws (M2x4) that secure the I/O board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Lift the I/O board off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the I/O board
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the I/O board and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
Removing and installing components 37
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the I/O board with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Replace the three screws (M2x4) that secure the I/O board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Display assembly
Removing the display assembly
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the display cable and the display hinges and provide a visual representation of the
removal procedure.
38 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 39
Steps
1. Remove the two screws (M2x4) that secure the display-cable bracket to the system board.
2. Lift the display-cable bracket off the system board.
3. Push the camera cable and the display cable away from the system board to disconnect them from the system board.
4. Remove the three screws (M2.5x6) that secure the left display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Remove the three screws (M2.5x6) that secure the right display hinge to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Lift the left and right display hinges from the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
7. Slide the palm-rest and keyboard assembly from the display assembly.
8. After performing all 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 procedure.
About this task
The following images indicate the location of the display cable and the display hinges and provide a visual representation of the
installation procedure.
40 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 41
Steps
1. Slide the palm-rest and keyboard assembly under the display hinges.
2. Align the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly with the screw holes on the right and left display hinges.
3. Replace the three screws (M2.5x6) that secure the left display hinge to the system board and the palm-rest and keyboard
assembly.
4. Replace the three screws (M2.5x6) that secure the right display hinge to the system board and the palm-rest and keyboard
assembly.
5. Connect the display cable and the camera cable to the system board.
6. Align the screw holes on the display-cable bracket with the screw holes on the system board.
7. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the display-cable bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
NOTE: Apply gentle torque when tightening the two screws (M2x4) to avoid damaging the screw threads.
Next steps
1. Install the base cover.
2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
42 Removing and installing components
System board
Removing the system board
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
NOTE: The Service Tag of your computer is stored in the system board. Enter the Service Tag in the BIOS setup
program after you replace the system board.
NOTE: Replacing the system board removes any changes that you have made to the BIOS using the BIOS setup
program. Make the appropriate changes again after you replace the system board.
NOTE: Before disconnecting the cables from the system board, note the location of the connectors so that you can
reconnect the cables correctly after you replace the system board.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the battery.
4. Remove the memory modules.
5. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD1 slot.
6. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD2 slot.
7. Remove the heat sink.
NOTE: The system board can be removed or installed together with the heat sink attached. This simplifies the
procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and the heat sink.
8. Remove the right fan.
9. Remove the left fan.
10. Remove the I/O board.
11. Remove the display assembly.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the cables on your system board.
Figure 1. System-board cables
1. Power-button cable 2. Left fan cable
3. Left antenna cable (applicable only to computers shipped
with active antenna)
4. Left speaker cable
5. Keyboard cable 6. Right speaker cable
Removing and installing components 43
7. Antenna cables 8. Right antenna cable (applicable only to computers shipped
with active antenna)
9. Right fan cable 10. Display cable
The following images indicate the location of the system board and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
44 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Remove the two screws (M2x4) that secure the display-cable bracket to the system board.
2. Lift the display-cable bracket off the system board.
3. Disconnect the camera cable and the display cable from the system board.
4. Remove the two screws (M2x4) that secure the USB Type-C port bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Peel off the Mylar that secures the power-button cable and the left antenna cable (applicable only to computers shipped
with active antenna) to the system board.
6. Open the latch and disconnect the power-button cable from the system board.
7. Open the latch and disconnect the left antenna cable from the system board.
8. Disconnect the left speaker cable from the system board.
9. Disconnect the keyboard cable from the system board.
10. Remove the two screws (M2x4) that secure the USB Type-C port bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
11. Peel off the Mylar that secures the right antenna cable (applicable only to computers shipped with active antenna) and the
antenna cable to the system board.
12. Remove the screw (M2x4) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the system board.
13. Open the latch and disconnect the antenna cable from the wireless card.
14. Disconnect the right speaker cable from the system board.
15. Remove the three screws (M2x4) that secure the system board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
16. Lift the system board off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Removing and installing components 45
Installing the system board
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
NOTE: The Service Tag of your computer is stored in the system board. Enter the Service Tag in the BIOS setup program
after you replace the system board.
NOTE: Replacing the system board removes any changes that you have made to the BIOS using the BIOS setup program.
Make the appropriate changes again after you replace the system board.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the cables on your system board.
Figure 2. System-board cables
1. Power-button cable 2. Left fan cable
3. Left antenna cable (applicable only to computers shipped
with active antenna)
4. Left speaker cable
5. Keyboard cable 6. Right speaker cable
7. Antenna cables 8. Right antenna cable (applicable only to computers shipped
with active antenna)
9. Right fan cable 10. Display cable
The following images indicate the location of the system board and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
46 Removing and installing components
Removing and installing components 47
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the system board with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Replace the three screws (M2x4) that secure the system board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Connect the right antenna cable (applicable only to computers shipped with active antenna) to the system board and close
the latch to secure the right antenna cable to the system board.
4. Connect the antenna cables to the wireless card.
The following table provides the antenna-cable color scheme for the wireless card that is supported by your computer.
Table 2. Antenna-cable color scheme
Connectors on the wireless card Antenna-cable color
Main (white triangle) White
Auxiliary (black triangle) Black
5. Connect the right speaker cable to the system board and close the latch to secure the cable to the system board.
6. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the power-button bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
7. Adhere the Mylar that secures the right antenna cable and the antenna cables to the system board.
8. Replace the screw (M2x4) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the system board.
9. Connect the power-button cable to the system board and close the latch to secure the cable to the system board.
10. Connect the left antenna cable (applicable only to computers shipped with active antenna) to the system board and close
the latch to secure the cable to the system board.
11. Connect the left speaker cable to the system board and close the latch to secure the cable to the system board.
12. Connect the keyboard cable to the system board and close the latch to secure the cable to the system board.
13. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the USB Type-C port bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
14. Adhere the Mylar that secures the power-button cable and the left antenna cable (applicable only to computers shipped with
active antenna) to the system board.
48 Removing and installing components
15. Connect the display cable and the camera cable to the system board.
16. Align the screw holes on the display-cable bracket with the screw holes on the system board.
17. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the display-cable bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
NOTE: Apply sufficient torque when tightening the two screws (M2x4) to avoid damaging the screw threads.
Next steps
1. Install the display assembly.
2. Install the I/O board.
3. Install the right fan.
4. Install the left fan.
5. Install the heat sink.
6. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive in the SSD2 slot.
7. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive in the SSD1 slot.
8. Install the memory modules.
9. Install the battery.
10. Install the base cover.
11. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Antenna
Removing the antennas
Prerequisites
1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.
NOTE: The Service Tag of your computer is stored in the system board. Enter the Service Tag in the BIOS setup
program after you replace the system board.
NOTE: Replacing the system board removes any changes that you have made to the BIOS using the BIOS setup
program. Make the appropriate changes again after you replace the system board.
NOTE: Before disconnecting the cables from the system board, note the location of the connectors so that you can
reconnect the cables correctly after you replace the system board.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the battery.
4. Remove the memory modules.
5. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD1 slot.
6. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD2 slot.
7. Remove the heat sink.
NOTE: The system board can be removed or installed together with the heat sink attached. This simplifies the
procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and the heat sink.
8. Remove the right fan.
9. Remove the left fan.
10. Remove the I/O board.
11. Remove the display assembly.
12. Remove the system board.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the antennas and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.
Removing and installing components 49
Steps
1. Remove the four screws (M2x2) that secure the right antenna to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Remove the four screws (M2x2) that secure the left antenna to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Note the routing of the antenna cables along the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Peel off the tapes that secure the antenna cable to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Remove the antenna cable from the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Lift the left and the right antenna, along with its cables, off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Installing the antennas
Prerequisites
If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the location of the antennas and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.
50 Removing and installing components
Steps
1. Place the antennas into the slots on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
2. Route the antenna cable through the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
3. Adhere the tapes that secure the antenna cable to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
4. Align the screw holes on the right antenna with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
5. Replace the four screws (M2x2) that secure the right antenna to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
6. Align the screw holes on the left antenna with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
7. Replace the four screws (M2x2) that secure the left antenna to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Next steps
1. Install the system board.
2. Install the display assembly.
3. Install the I/O board.
4. Install the right fan.
5. Install the left fan.
6. Install the heat sink.
NOTE: The system board can be removed or installed together with the heat sink attached. This simplifies the
procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and the heat sink.
7. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD2 slot.
Removing and installing components 51
8. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD1 slot.
9. Install the memory modules.
10. Install the battery.
11. Install the base cover.
12. 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.
NOTE: The Service Tag of your computer is stored in the system board. Enter the Service Tag in the BIOS setup
program after you replace the system board.
NOTE: Replacing the system board removes any changes that you have made to the BIOS using the BIOS setup
program. Make the appropriate changes again after you replace the system board.
NOTE: Before disconnecting the cables from the system board, note the location of the connectors so that you can
reconnect the cables correctly after you replace the system board.
2. Remove the base cover.
3. Remove the battery.
4. Remove the memory modules.
5. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD1 slot.
6. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive from the SSD2 slot.
7. Remove the heat sink.
NOTE: The system board can be removed or installed together with the heat sink attached. This simplifies the
procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and the heat sink.
8. Remove the right fan.
9. Remove the left fan.
10. Remove the I/O board.
11. Remove the display assembly.
12. Remove the system board.
13. Remove the antenna.
About this task
The following image indicates the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and provides a visual representation of the removal
procedure.
52 Removing and installing components
After performing the steps in 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 procedure.
About this task
The following image indicates the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and provides a visual representation of the installation
procedure.
Removing and installing components 53
Steps
Place the palm-rest and keyboard assembly on a flat surface.
Next steps
1. Install the antenna.
2. Install the system board.
3. Install the display assembly.
4. Install the I/O board.
5. Install the right fan.
6. Install the left fan.
7. Install the heat sink.
NOTE: The system board can be removed or installed together with the heat sink attached. This simplifies the
procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and the heat sink.
8. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive in the SSD2 slot.
9. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or the M.2 2280 solid-state drive in the SSD1 slot.
10. Install the memory modules.
11. Install the battery.
12. Install the base cover.
13. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
54 Removing and installing components
System setup
CAUTION: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings in the BIOS Setup program.
Certain changes can make your computer work incorrectly.
NOTE: Depending on the computer and its installed devices, the items listed in this section may or may not be displayed.
NOTE: Before you change BIOS Setup program, it is recommended that you write down the BIOS Setup program screen
information for future reference.
Use the BIOS Setup program for the following purposes:
●Get information about the hardware installed in your computer, such as the amount of RAM and the size of the hard drive.
●Change the system configuration information.
●Set or change a user-selectable option, such as the user password, type of hard drive installed, and enabling or disabling
base devices.
Entering BIOS setup program
About this task
Turn on (or restart) your computer and press F2 immediately.
Navigation keys
NOTE: For most of the System Setup options, changes that you make are recorded but do not take effect until you restart
the system.
Table 3. Navigation keys
Keys Navigation
Up arrow Moves to the previous field.
Down arrow Moves to the next field.
Enter Selects a value in the selected field (if applicable) or follow
the link in the field.
Spacebar Expands or collapses a drop-down list, if applicable.
Tab Moves to the next focus area.
NOTE: For the standard graphics browser only.
Esc Moves to the previous page until you view the main screen.
Pressing Esc in the main screen displays a message that
prompts you to save any unsaved changes and restarts the
system.
Boot Sequence
Boot Sequence allows you to bypass the System Setup–defined boot device order and boot directly to a specific device (for
example: optical drive or hard drive). During the Power-on Self Test (POST), when the Dell logo appears, you can:
●Access System Setup by pressing F2 key
4
56 System setup
●Bring up the one-time boot menu by pressing F12 key
The one-time boot menu displays the devices that you can boot from including the diagnostic option. The boot menu options
are:
●Removable Drive (if available)
●STXXXX Drive (if available)
NOTE: XXX denotes the SATA drive number.
●Optical Drive (if available)
●SATA Hard Drive (if available)
●Diagnostics
The boot sequence screen also displays the option to access the System Setup screen.
One time boot menu
To enter one time boot menu, turn on your computer, and then press F12 immediately.
NOTE: It is recommended to shutdown the computer if it is on.
The one-time boot menu displays the devices that you can boot from including the diagnostic option. The boot menu options
are:
●Removable Drive (if available)
●STXXXX Drive (if available)
NOTE: XXX denotes the SATA drive number.
●Optical Drive (if available)
●SATA Hard Drive (if available)
●Diagnostics
The boot sequence screen also displays the option to access the System Setup screen.
System setup options
NOTE: Depending on this computer and its installed devices, the items that are listed in this section may or may not be
displayed.
Table 4. System setup options—System information menu
Overview
XPS 17 9700
BIOS Version Displays the BIOS version number.
Service Tag Displays the Service Tag of the computer.
Asset Tag Displays the Asset Tag of the computer.
Manufacture Date Displays the manufacture date of the computer.
Ownership Date Displays the ownership date of the computer.
Express Service Code Displays the express service code of the computer.
Ownership Tag Displays the ownership tag of the computer.
Signed Firmware Update Displays whether the signed firmware update is enabled.
Default: Enabled
Battery Displays the battery health information.
Primary Displays the primary battery.
Battery Level Displays the battery level.
System setup 57
Table 4. System setup options—System information menu (continued)
Overview
Battery State Displays the battery state.
Health Displays the battery health.
AC Adapter Displays whether an AC adapter is connected. If connected, the AC adapter
type.
PROCESSOR
Processor Type Displays the processor type.
Maximum Clock Speed Displays the maximum processor clock speed.
Minimum Clock Speed Displays the minimum processor clock speed.
Current Clock Speed Displays the current processor clock speed.
Core Count Displays the number of cores on the processor.
Processor ID Displays the processor identification code.
Processor L2 Cache Displays the processor L2 Cache size.
Processor L3 Cache Displays the processor L3 Cache size.
Microcode Version Displays the microcode version.
Intel Hyper-Threading Capable Displays whether the processor is Hyper-Threading (HT) capable.
64-Bit Technology Displays whether 64-bit technology is used.
MEMORY
Memory Installed Displays the total computer memory installed.
Memory Available Displays the total computer memory available.
Memory Speed Displays the memory speed.
Memory Channel Mode Displays single or dual channel mode.
Memory Technology Displays the technology that is used for the memory.
DIMM SLOT 1 Displays the memory card installed in slot 1
DIMM SLOT 2 Displays the memory card installed in slot 2
DEVICES
Panel Type Displays the Panel Type of the computer.
Video Controller Displays the integrate graphics information of the computer.
Video Memory Displays the video memory information of the computer.
Wi-Fi Device Displays the Wi-Fi device installed in the computer.
Native Resolution Displays the native resolution of the computer.
Video BIOS Version Displays the video BIOS version of the computer.
Audio Controller Displays the audio controller information of the computer.
Bluetooth Device Displays whether a Bluetooth device is installed in the computer.
Pass Through MAC Address Displays the MAC address of the video pass-through.
Table 5. System setup options—Boot Configuration menu
Boot Configuration
Boot Sequence
Boot Mode: UEFI only Displays the boot mode of this computer.
Boot Sequence Displays the boot sequence.
58 System setup
Table 5. System setup options—Boot Configuration menu (continued)
Boot Configuration
Secure Digital (SD) Card Boot Enables or disables Secure Digital (SD) Card boot.
Secure Boot
Enable Secure Boot Enables or disables checking of boot software (including firmware drivers and
the operating system).
Secure Boot Mode Modifies the behavior of Secure Boot to allow evaluation or enforcement of
UEFI driver signatures.
By default, Deployed Mode is selected.
Expert Key Management
Enable Custom Mode Enables or disables custom mode to allow keys in the PK, KEK, db, and dbx
security key databases to be modified.
Default: OFF
Table 6. System setup options—Integrated Devices menu
Integrated Devices
Date/Time
Date Sets the computer date in MM/DD/YYYY format. Changes to the date take
effect immediately.
Time Sets the computer time in HH/MM/SS 24-hour format. You can switch
between 12-hour and 24-hour clock. Changes to the time take effect
immediately.
Thunderbolt Adapter Configuration
Enable Thunderbolt Technology Support Enables or disables the Thunderbolt Technology feature and associated ports
and adapters.
Default: ON
Enable Thunderbolt Boot Support Enables or disables Thunderbolt adapter features during pre-boot.
Default: OFF
Enable Thunderbolt (and PCIe behind
TBT) pre-boot modules
Enables or disables the setting that allows PCIe devices that are connected via
a Thunderbolt adapter.
Default: OFF
Thunderbolt Security level Sets the Thunderbolt adapter security level within the operating system.
By default, User Authorization is selected.
Camera
Enable Camera Enables or disables the camera.
By default, Enable Camera is selected.
Audio
Enable Audio Enables or disables all integrated audio controller.
Default: ON
Enable Microphone Enables or disables microphone.
By default, Enable Microphone is selected.
Enable Internal Speaker Enables or disables internal speaker.
By default, Enable Internal Speaker is selected.
System setup 59
Table 6. System setup options—Integrated Devices menu (continued)
Integrated Devices
USB Configuration Enables or disables booting from USB mass storage devices such as external
hard drive, optical drive, and USB drive.
By default, Enable USB Boot Support is selected.
By default, Enable External USB Ports is selected.
Miscellaneous Devices
Enable Fingerprint Reader Device Enables or disables the Fingerprint Reader Device.
By default, Enable Fingerprint Reader Device is selected.
Enable Fingerprint Reader Single Sign On Enables or disables the Fingerprint Reader Single Sign On capability.
By default, Enable Fingerprint Reader Single Sign On is selected.
Table 7. System setup options—Storage menu
Storage
SATA Operation Configures operating mode of the integrated SATA hard drive controller.
Default: RAID On. SATA is configured to support RAID (Intel Rapid Restore
Technology).
Storage Interface
Port Enablement Enables the selected onboard drives.
●SATA-4
Default: ON
●M.2 PCIe SSD-0
Default: ON
●M.2 PCIe SSD-1
Default: ON
Drive Information Displays the information of various onboard drives.
Enable SMART Reporting Enables or disables Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology
(SMART).
Default: OFF
Enable MediaCard Enables to switch all media cards On/Off or set the media card to read-only
state.
By default, Enable Secure Digital (SD) Card is selected.
Table 8. System setup options—Display menu
Display
Display Brightness
Brightness on battery power Sets the screen brightness when the computer is running on battery power.
Default: 50
Brightness on AC power Sets the screen brightness when the computer is running on AC power.
Default: 0
Touch Screen Enables or disables the touch screen for the OS.
NOTE: The touch screen will always work in the BIOS setup irrespective of
this setting.
60 System setup
Table 8. System setup options—Display menu (continued)
Display
Full Screen Logo Enabled or disabled the computer to display full screen logo if the image match
screen resolution.
Default: OFF
Direct Graphics Controller Direct
Output Mode
When enabled, all graphics output ports directly to the Graphics Processing
Unit (GPU), bypassing Intel Integrated graphics outputs for HDMI, Thunderbolt,
and mDP ports.
Default: OFF
Table 9. System setup options—Connection menu
Connection
Wireless Device Enable Enable or disable internal WLAN/Bluetooth devices.
By default, WLAN is selected.
By default, Bluetooth is selected.
Enable UEFI Network Stack
Enable UEFI Network Stack When enabled, UEFI networking protocols are installed and available, allowing
pre-OS and early OS networking features to use any enabled NICs. This may be
used without PXE turned on.
Default: ON
Wireless Radio Control
Control WLAN radio Enables to sense the connection of the computer to a wired network and
subsequently disable the selected wireless radios (WLAN and/or WWAN).
Upon disconnection from the wired network, the selected wireless radios are
re-enabled.
Default: OFF
Table 10. System setup options—Power menu
Power
Battery Configuration Enables the computer to run on battery during power usage hours. Use the
below options to prevent AC power usage between certain times of each day.
By default Adaptive is selected.
Advanced Configuration
Enable Advanced Battery Charge
Configuration
Enables Advanced Battery Charge Configuration from the beginning of the
day to a specified work period. Advanced Battery Charged maximizes battery
health while still supporting heavy use during the work day.
Default: OFF
Peak Shift Enables the computer to run on battery during peak power usage hours.
Default: OFF
Thermal Management Sets cooling fan and processor heat management to adjust system
performance, noise, and temperature.
By default, Optimized is selected.
USB Wake Support
Wake on Dell USB-C Dock Enables connecting a Dell USB-C Dock to wake the computer from Standby.
Default: ON
Block Sleep Blocks the computer from entering Sleep (S3) mode in the operating system.
System setup 61
Table 10. System setup options—Power menu (continued)
Power
Default: OFF
NOTE: If enabled, the computer will not go to sleep, Intel Rapid Start will
be disabled automatically, and the operating system power option will be
blank if it was set to Sleep.
Lid Switch
Enable Lid Switch Enables or disables the lid switch.
Default: ON
Power On Lid Open Enables the computer to power up from the off state whenever the lid is
opened.
Default: ON
Intel Speed Shift Technology Enables or disables the Intel Speed Shift Technology support. Setting this
option to enable allows the operating system to select the appropriate
processor performance automatically.
Default: ON
Table 11. System setup options—Security menu
Security
TPM 2.0 Security On Select whether or not the Trusted Platform Model (TPM) is visible to the OS.
Default: ON
PPI Bypass for Enable Commands Enables or disables the OS to skip BIOS Physical Presence Interface (PPI) user
prompts when issuing TPM PPI enabled and activate commands.
Default: OFF
PPI Bypass for Disable Commands Enables or disables The OS to skip BIOS PPI user prompts when issuing TPM
PPI Disable and Deactivate commands.
Default: OFF
PPI Bypass for Clear Commands Enables or disables the operating system to skip BIOS Physical Presence
Interface (PPI) user prompts when issuing the Clear command.
Default: OFF
Attestation Enable Enables to control whether the TPM Endorsement Hierarchy is available to the
OS. Disabling this setting restricts the ability to use the TPM for signature
operations.
Default: ON
Key Storage Enable Enables to control whether the TPM Endorsement Hierarchy is available to the
OS. Disabling this setting restricts the ability to use the TPM for storing owner
data.
Default: ON
SHA-256 Enables or disables the BIOS and the TPM to use the SHA-256 hash algorithm
to extend measurements into the TPM PCRs during BIOS boot.
Default: ON
Clear Enables or disables the computer to clear the PTT owner information, and
returns the PTT to the default state.
Default: OFF
TPM State Enables or disables the TPM. This is the normal operating state for the TPM
when you want to use its complete array of capabilities.
62 System setup
Table 11. System setup options—Security menu (continued)
Security
Default: Enabled
Intel Software Guard Extensions
Intel SGX Enables or disables the Intel Software Guard Extensions (SGX) to provide a
secured environment for running code/storing sensitive information.
By default, Software Control is selected.
SMM Security Mitigation
SMM Security Mitigation Enables or disables additional UEFI SMM Security Mitigation protections.
Default: OFF
NOTE: This feature may cause compatibility issues or loss of functionality
with some legacy tools and applications.
Data Wipe on Next Boot
Start Data Wipe When enabled, the BIOS will queue up a data wipe cycle for storage device(s)
connected to the motherboard on the next reboot.
Default: OFF
Absolute
Absolute Enables, disables or permanently disable the BIOS module interface of the
optional Absolute Persistence Module service from Absolute Software.
By default, Enable Absolute is selected.
UEFI Boot Path Security
UEFI Boot Path Security Controls whether the system will prompt the user to enter the admin password
(if set) when booting to a UEFI boot path device from the F12 boot menu.
By default, Always Except Internal HDD is selected.
Table 12. System setup options—Passwords menu
Passwords
Admin Password Sets, changes, or deletes the administrator password (sometimes called
the "setup password"). The administrator password enables several security
features.
Password Configuration
Upper Case Letter When enabled, password must contain at least one upper case letter.
Default: OFF
Upper Case Letter When enabled, password must contain at least one lower case letter.
Default: OFF
Digit When enabled, password must contain at least one digit number.
Default: OFF
Special Character When enabled, password must contain at least one special character.
Default: OFF
Minimum Characters Sets the minimum number of characters allowed for passwords.
Default: 04
Password Bypass
System setup 63
Table 12. System setup options—Passwords menu (continued)
Passwords
Password Bypass When enabled, the system and the hard drive passwords are prompted when
the computer is powered on from the Off state.
By default, Disabled is selected.
Password Changes
Enable Non-Admin Password Changes When On, users can change the system and the hard drive password without
the need for administrator password.
Default: ON
Admin Setup Lockout
Enable Admin Setup Lockout Enables or disables the user from entering BIOS Setup when an administrator
password is set.
Default: OFF
Master Password Lockout
Enable Master Password Lockout Enables or disables the master password support.
Default: OFF
Table 13. System setup options—Update Recovery menu
Update Recovery
UEFI Capsule Firmware Updates
Enable UEFI Capsule Firmware Updates Controls whether this computer allows BIOS updates via EUFI capsule update
packages.
Default: ON
BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive
BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive Enables the computer to recover from a bad BIOS image, as long as the Boot
Block portion is intact and functioning.
Default: ON
NOTE: BIOS recovery is designed to fix the main BIOS block and cannot
work if the Boot Block is damaged. In addition, this feature cannot work
in the event of EC corruption, ME corruption, or a hardware issue. The
recovery image must exist on an unencrypted partition on the drive.
BIOS Downgrade
Allow BIOS Downgrade Controls flashing of the system firmware to previous revisions.
Default: ON
SupportAssist OS Recovery
SupportAssist OS Recovery Enables or disables the boot flow for SupportAssist OS Recovery tool in the
event of certain system errors.
Default: ON
BIOSConnect
BIOSConnect Enables or disables cloud Service OS recover if the main operating system fails
to boot with the number of failures equal to or greater than the value specified
by the Auto OS Recovery Threshold setup option.
Default: ON
Dell Auto OS Recovery Threshold Controls the automatic boot flow for SupportAssist System Resolution Console
and for Dell operating system Recovery tool.
64 System setup
Table 13. System setup options—Update Recovery menu (continued)
Update Recovery
By default, 2 is selected.
Table 14. System setup options—System Management menu
System Management
Service Tag Displays the Service Tag of the computer.
Asset Tag Creates a system Asset Tag that can be used by an IT administrator to
uniquely identify a particular system. Once set in BIOS, the Asset Tag cannot
be changed.
AC Behavior
Wake on AC Enables the computer to turn on and go to boot when AC power is supplied to
the computer.
Default: OFF
Wake on LAN/WLAN
Wake on LAN/WLAN Enables or disables the computer to turn on by a special LAN/WLAN signal.
By default, Disabled is selected.
Table 15. System setup options—Keyboard menu
Keyboard
Numlock Enable
Enable Numlock Enables or disables Numlock when the computer boots.
Default: ON
Fn Lock Options
Fn Lock Options Enables or disables the Fn lock option.
Default: ON
Lock Mode Default: Lock Mode Secondary. Lock Mode Secondary = If this option is
selected, the F1-F12 keys scan the code for their secondary functions.
Keyboard Illumination
Keyboard Illumination Configures the operating mode of the keyboard illumination feature.
By default, Bright is selected.
Keyboard Backlight Timeout on AC
Keyboard Backlight Timeout on AC Configures the timeout value for the keyboard when an AC adapter is
connected to the computer. The keyboard backlight timeout value is only
effect when the backlight is enabled.
By default, 1 minute is selected.
Keyboard Backlight Timeout on
Battery
Keyboard Backlight Timeout on Battery Configures the timeout value for the keyboard when the computer is running
on battery. The keyboard backlight timeout value is only effect when the
backlight is enabled.
By default, 1 minute is selected.
OROM Keyboard Access Enables or disables the option to enter Option ROM configuration screens via
hotkeys during boot.
By default, Enabled is selected.
System setup 65
Table 15. System setup options—Keyboard menu (continued)
Keyboard
OROM Keyboard Access
Table 16. System setup options—Pre-Boot Behavior menu
Pre-Boot Behavior
Adapter Warnings
Enable Adapter Warnings Enables or disables the computer to display adapter warning messages when
adapters with too little power capacity are detected.
Default: ON
Warnings and Errors
Warnings and Errors Selects an action on encountering a warning or error during boot.
By default, Prompt on Warnings and Errors is selected.
NOTE: Errors deemed critical to the operation of the computer hardware
will always halt the computer.
USB-C Warnings
Enable Dock Warning Messages Enables or disables dock warning messages.
Default: ON
Fastboot
Fastboot Configures the speed of the UEFI boot process.
By default, Thorough is selected.
Extend BIOS POST Time
Extend BIOS POST Time Configures the BIOS POST (Power-On Self-Test) load time.
By default, 0 seconds is selected.
MAC Address Pass-Through
MAC Address Pass-Through Replaces the external NIC MAC address (in a supported dock or dongle) with
the selected MAC address from the computer.
By default, System Unique MAC Address is selected.
Sign of Life
Early Logo Display Displays Logo Sign of Life.
Default: ON
Table 17. System setup options—Virtualization menu
Virtualization
Intel Virtualization Technology
Intel Virtualization Technology Enables or disables the computer to run a virtual machine monitor (VMM).
Default: ON
VT for Direct I/O
Enable Intel VT for Direct I/O Enables or disables the computer to perform Virtualization Technology for
Direct I/O (VT-d). VT-d is an Intel method that provides virtualization for
memory map I/O.
Default: ON
66 System setup
Table 18. System setup options—Performance menu
Performance
Multi-Core Support
Active Cores Changes the number of CPU cores available to the operating system. The
default value is set to the maximum number of cores.
By default, All Cores is selected.
Intel SpeedStep
Enable Intel SpeedStep Technology Enables or disables the Intel SpeedStep Technology to dynamically adjust
processor voltage and core frequency, decreasing average power consumption
and heat production.
Default: ON
C-States Control
Enable C-State Control Enables or disables the CPU's ability to enter and exit low-power states.
Default: ON
Enable Adaptive C-States for Discrete
Graphics
Allows the computer to dynamically detect high usage of a discrete graphics
and adjust the computer parameters for higher performance during that time
period.
Default: ON
Intel Turbo Boost Technology
Enable Intel Turbo Boost Technology Enabled or disabled the Intel TurboBoost mode of the processor. If enabled,
the Intel TurboBoost driver increases the performance of the CPU or graphics
processor.
Default: ON
Intel Hyper-Threading Technology
Enable Intel Hyper-Threading Technology Enabled or disabled the Intel Hyper-Threading mode of the processor. If
enabled, the Intel Hyper-Threading increases the efficiency of the processor
resources when multiple threads run on each core.
Default: ON
Dynamic Tuning:Machine Learning
Enable Dynamic Tuning:Machine Learning Enables or disables OS capability to enhance dynamic power tuning capabilities
based on detected workloads.
Default: OFF
Table 19. System setup options—System Logs menu
System Logs
BIOS Event Log
Clear Bios Event Log Select keep or clear BIOS events.
By default, Keep is selected.
Thermal Event Log
Clear Thermal Event Log Select keep or clear Thermal events.
By default, Keep is selected.
Power Event Log
Clear POWER Event Log Select keep or clear Power events.
By default, Keep is selected.
System setup 67
System and setup password
Table 20. System and setup password
Password type Description
System password Password that you must enter to log in to your system.
Setup password Password that you must enter to access and make changes to
the BIOS settings of your computer.
You can create a system password and a setup password to secure your computer.
CAUTION: The password features provide a basic level of security for the data on your computer.
CAUTION: Anyone can access the data that is stored on your computer if it is not locked and left unattended.
NOTE: System and setup password feature is disabled.
Assigning a system setup password
Prerequisites
You can assign a new System or Admin Password only when the status is in Not Set.
About this task
To enter the system setup, press F12 immediately after a power-on or reboot.
Steps
1. In the System BIOS or System Setup screen, select Security and press Enter.
The Security screen is displayed.
2. Select System/Admin Password and create a password in the Enter the new password field.
Use the following guidelines to assign the system password:
●At least one special character: ! " # $ % & ' ( ) * + , - . / : ; < = > ? @ [ \ ] ^ _ ` { | }
●Numbers 0 through 9.
●Upper case letters from A to Z.
●Lower case letters from a to z.
3. Type the system password that you entered earlier in the Confirm new password field and click OK.
4. Press Esc and save the changes as prompted by the pop-up message.
5. Press Y to save the changes.
The computer restarts.
Deleting or changing an existing system setup password
Prerequisites
Ensure that the Password Status is Unlocked (in the System Setup) before attempting to delete or change the existing
System and/or Setup password. You cannot delete or change an existing System or Setup password, if the Password Status is
Locked.
About this task
To enter the System Setup, press F12 immediately after a power-on or reboot.
Steps
1. In the System BIOS or System Setup screen, select System Security and press Enter.
The System Security screen is displayed.
68 System setup
2. In the System Security screen, verify that Password Status is Unlocked.
3. Select System Password, update, or delete the existing system password, and press Enter or Tab.
4. Select Setup Password, update, or delete the existing setup password, and press Enter or Tab.
NOTE: If you change the System and/or Setup password, reenter the new password when prompted. If you delete the
System and/or Setup password, confirm the deletion when prompted.
5. Press Esc and a message prompts you to save the changes.
6. Press Y to save the changes and exit from System Setup.
The computer restarts.
Clearing CMOS settings
About this task
CAUTION: Clearing CMOS settings resets the BIOS settings on your computer.
Steps
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Remove the base cover.
NOTE: The battery must be disconnected from the system board. See step 4 in Removing the base cover.
3. Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds to drain the flea power.
4. Before you turn on your computer, follow the steps in Installing the base cover.
5. Turn on your computer.
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.
Updating the BIOS
Updating the BIOS in Windows
Steps
1. Go to www.dell.com/support.
2. Click Product support. In the Search support box, enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Search.
NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the SupportAssist feature to automatically identify your computer. You
can also use the product ID or manually browse for your computer model.
3. Click Drivers & Downloads. Expand Find drivers.
4. Select the operating system installed on your computer.
5. In the Category drop-down list, select BIOS.
6. Select the latest version of BIOS, and click Download to download the BIOS file for your computer.
7. After the download is complete, browse the folder where you saved the BIOS update file.
8. Double-click the BIOS update file icon and follow the on-screen instructions.
For more information, see knowledge base article 000124211 at www.dell.com/support.
System setup 69
Updating the BIOS using the USB drive in Windows
Steps
1. Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 6 in Updating the BIOS in Windows to download the latest BIOS setup program file.
2. Create a bootable USB drive. For more information, see the knowledge base article 000145519 at www.dell.com/support.
3. Copy the BIOS setup program file to the bootable USB drive.
4. Connect the bootable USB drive to the computer that needs the BIOS update.
5. Restart the computer and press F12 .
6. Select the USB drive from the One Time Boot Menu.
7. Type the BIOS setup program filename and press Enter.
The BIOS Update Utility appears.
8. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the BIOS update.
Updating the BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu
Update your computer BIOS using the BIOS update.exe file that is copied to a FAT32 USB drive and booting from the F12
One-Time boot menu.
About this task
BIOS Update
You can run the BIOS update file from Windows using a bootable USB drive or you can also update the BIOS from the F12
One-Time boot menu on the computer.
Most of the Dell computers built after 2012 have this capability, and you can confirm by booting your computer to the F12
One-Time Boot Menu to see if BIOS FLASH UPDATE is listed as a boot option for your computer. If the option is listed, then the
BIOS supports this BIOS update option.
NOTE: Only computers with BIOS Flash Update option in the F12 One-Time boot menu can use this function.
Updating from the One-Time boot menu
To update your BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu, you need the following:
●USB drive formatted to the FAT32 file system (key does not have to be bootable)
●BIOS executable file that you downloaded from the Dell Support website and copied to the root of the USB drive
●AC power adapter that is connected to the computer
●Functional computer battery to flash the BIOS
Perform the following steps to perform the BIOS update flash process from the F12 menu:
CAUTION: Do not turn off the computer during the BIOS update process. The computer may not boot if you turn
off your computer.
Steps
1. From a turn off state, insert the USB drive where you copied the flash into a USB port of the computer.
2. Turn on the computer and press F12 to access the One-Time Boot Menu, select BIOS Update using the mouse or arrow keys
then press Enter.
The flash BIOS menu is displayed.
3. Click Flash from file.
4. Select external USB device.
5. Select the file and double-click the flash target file, and then click Submit.
6. Click Update BIOS. The computer restarts to flash the BIOS.
7. The computer will restart after the BIOS update is completed.
70 System setup
Troubleshooting
Handling swollen Lithium-ion batteries
Like most laptops, Dell laptops use lithium-ion batteries. One type of lithium-ion battery is the lithium-ion polymer battery.
Lithium-ion polymer batteries have increased in popularity in recent years and have become standard in the electronics industry
due to customer preferences for a slim form factor (especially with newer ultra-thin laptops) and long battery life. Inherent to
lithium-ion polymer battery technology is the potential for swelling of the battery cells.
Swollen battery may impact the performance of the laptop. To prevent possible further damage to the device enclosure or
internal components leading to malfunction, discontinue the use of the laptop and discharge it by disconnecting the AC adapter
and letting the battery drain.
Swollen batteries should not be used and should be replaced and disposed of properly. We recommend contacting Dell product
support for options to replace a swollen battery under the terms of the applicable warranty or service contract, including options
for replacement by a Dell authorized service technician.
The guidelines for handling and replacing Lithium-ion batteries are as follows:
●Exercise caution when handling Lithium-ion batteries.
●Discharge the battery before removing it from the system. To discharge the battery, unplug the AC adapter from the system
and operate the system only on battery power. When the system will no longer power on when the power button is pressed,
the battery is fully discharged.
●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.
●Do not use tools of any type to pry on or against the battery.
●If a battery gets stuck in a device as a result of swelling, do not try to free it as puncturing, bending, or crushing a battery
can be dangerous.
●Do not attempt to reassemble a damaged or swollen battery into a laptop.
●Swollen batteries that are covered under warranty should be returned to Dell in an approved shipping container (provided
by Dell)—this is to comply with transportation regulations. Swollen batteries that are not covered under warranty should be
disposed of at an approved recycling center. Contact Dell product support at https://www.dell.com/support for assistance
and further instructions.
●Using a non-Dell or incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a
compatible battery purchased from Dell that is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other
computers with your computer. Always purchase genuine batteries from https://www.dell.com or otherwise directly from
Dell.
Lithium-ion batteries can swell for various reasons such as age, number of charge cycles, or exposure to high heat. For more
information on how to improve the performance and lifespan of the laptop battery and to minimize the possibility of occurrence
of the issue, see Dell Laptop Battery - Frequently Asked Questions.
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.
5
Troubleshooting 71
System diagnostic lights
Power and battery-status light
The power and battery status light indicates the power and battery status of the computer. These are the power states:
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 may blink amber or white according to pre-defined "beep codes" indicating various 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.
NOTE: The following diagnostic light codes and recommended solutions are intended for Dell service technicians to
troubleshoot problems. 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.
Table 21. Diagnostic-light LED codes
Diagnostic light codes Problem description
1,1 TPM detection failure
1,2 SPI flash failure
1,5 i-Fuse failure
1,6 EC internal failure
2,1 Processor failure
2,2 System board: BIOS or ROM (Read-Only Memory)
failure
2,3 No memory or RAM (Random-Access Memory)
detected
2,4 Memory or RAM (Random-Access Memory) failure
2,5 Invalid memory installed
2,6 System-board or chipset error
2,7 Display failure
2,8 Display failure - Power Rail Failure
3,1 Coin-cell battery failure
3,2 PCI, video card/chip failure
3,4 Recovery image found but invalid
3,5 Power-rail failure
3,6 System BIOS Flash incomplete
3,7 Management Engine (ME) error
72 Troubleshooting
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.
Built-in self-test (BIST)
System board built-in self-test (M-BIST)
About this task
M-BIST is a built-in self-test diagnostics tool that improves the accuracy of diagnostics of embedded controller (EC) failures in
the system board. M-BIST must be manually initiated before POST and can also run on a dead system .
To invoke the system board built-in self-test (M-BIST), perform the following steps:
1. Press and hold both the M key and the power button to initiate M-BIST.
2. The battery-status light illuminates in amber when there is a system board failure.
3. Replace the system board to fix the issue.
NOTE: The battery status LED does not illuminate when the system board is functioning properly.
M-BIST
M-BIST (Built In Self-Test) is the system board's built-in self-test diagnostics tool that improves the diagnostics accuracy of
system board embedded controller (EC) failures.
NOTE: M-BIST can be manually initiated before POST (Power On Self Test).
How to run M-BIST
NOTE: M-BIST must be initiated on the system from a power-off state either connected to AC power or with battery only.
1. Press and hold both the M key on the keyboard and the power button to initiate M-BIST.
2. With both the M key and the power button held down, the battery indicator LED may exhibit two states:
a. OFF: No fault detected with the system board
b. AMBER: Indicates a problem with the system board
3. If there is a failure with the system board, the battery status LED will flash one of the following error codes for 30 seconds:
Troubleshooting 73
Table 22. LED error codes
Blinking Pattern Possible Problem
Amber White
2 1 CPU Failure
2 8 LCD Power Rail Failure
1 1 TPM Detection Failure
2 4 Unrecoverable SPI Failure
4. If there is no failure with the system board, the LCD will cycle through the solid color screens described in the LCD-BIST
section for 30 seconds and then power off.
LCD Built-in Self Test (BIST)
Dell laptops have a built-in diagnostic tool that helps you determine if the screen abnormality you are experiencing is an inherent
problem with the LCD (screen) of the Dell laptop or with the video card (GPU) and PC settings.
When you notice screen abnormalities like flickering, distortion, clarity issues, fuzzy or blurry image, horizontal or vertical lines,
color fade etc., it is always a good practice to isolate the LCD (screen) by running the Built-In Self Test (BIST).
How to invoke LCD BIST Test
1. Power off the Dell laptop.
2. Disconnect any peripherals that are connected to the laptop. Connect only the AC adapter (charger) to the laptop.
3. Ensure that the LCD (screen) is clean (no dust particles on the surface of the screen).
4. Press and hold D key and Power on the laptop to enter LCD built-in self test (BIST) mode. Continue to hold the D key, until
the system boots up.
5. The screen will display solid colors and change colors on the entire screen to white, black, red, green, and blue twice.
6. Then it will display the colors white, black and red.
7. Carefully inspect the screen for abnormalities (any lines, fuzzy color or distortion on the screen).
8. At the end of the last solid color (red), the system will shut down.
NOTE: Dell SupportAssist Pre-boot diagnostics upon launch, initiates an LCD BIST first, expecting a user intervention
confirm functionality of the LCD.
Recovering the operating system
When your computer is unable to boot to the operating system even after repeated attempts, it automatically starts Dell
SupportAssist OS Recovery.
Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery is a standalone tool that is preinstalled in all Dell computers installed with Windows operating
system. It consists of tools to diagnose and troubleshoot issues that may occur before your computer boots to the operating
system. It enables you to diagnose hardware issues, repair your computer, back up your files, or restore your computer to its
factory state.
You can also download it from the Dell Support website to troubleshoot and fix your computer when it fails to boot into their
primary operating system due to software or hardware failures.
For more information about the Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery, see Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery User's Guide at
www.dell.com/serviceabilitytools. Click SupportAssist and then, click SupportAssist OS Recovery.
Backup media and recovery options
It is recommended to create a recovery drive to troubleshoot and fix problems that may occur with Windows. Dell proposes
multiple options for recovering Windows operating system on your Dell PC. For more information. see Dell Windows Backup
Media and Recovery Options.
74 Troubleshooting
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.
Drain residual flea power (perform hard reset)
About this task
Flea power is the residual static electricity that remains in the computer even after it has been powered off and the battery is
removed.
For your safety, and to protect the sensitive electronic components in your computer, you are requested to drain residual flea
power before removing or replacing any component in your computer.
Draining residual flea power, also known as a performing a "hard reset", is also a common troubleshooting step if your computer
does not power on or boot into the operating system.
To drain residual flea power (perform a hard reset)
Steps
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Disconnect the power adapter from your computer.
3. Remove the base cover.
4. Remove the battery.
5. Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds to drain the flea power.
6. Install the battery.
7. Install the base cover.
8. Connect the power adapter to your computer.
9. Turn on your computer.
NOTE: For more information about performing a hard reset, see the knowledge base article 000130881 at
www.dell.com/support.
Real Time Clock—RTC reset
The Real Time Clock (RTC) reset function allows you or the service technician to recover the recently launched model Dell
Latitude and Precision systems from No POST/No Boot/No Power situations. You can initiate the RTC reset on the system
from a power-off state only if it is connected to AC power. Press and hold the power button for 25 seconds. The system RTC
reset occurs after you release the power button.
NOTE: If AC power is disconnected from the system during the process or the power button is held longer than 40
seconds, the RTC reset process gets aborted.
Troubleshooting 75
The RTC reset will reset the BIOS to Defaults, un-provision Intel vPro and reset the system date and time. The following items
are unaffected by the RTC reset:
●Service Tag
●Asset Tag
●Ownership Tag
●Admin Password
●System Password
●HDD Password
●Key Databases
●System Logs
NOTE: The IT administrator's vPro account and password on the system will be un-provisioned. The system needs to go
through the setup and configuration process again to reconnect it to the vPro server.
The below items may or may not reset based on your custom BIOS setting selections:
●Boot List
●Enable Legacy Option ROMs
●Secure Boot Enable
●Allow BIOS Downgrade
76 Troubleshooting
Getting help and contacting Dell
Self-help resources
You can get information and help on Dell products and services using these self-help resources:
Table 23. Self-help resources
Self-help resources Resource location
Information about Dell products and services www.dell.com
My Dell app
Tips
Contact Support In Windows search, type Contact Support, and press
Enter.
Online help for operating system www.dell.com/support/windows
Access top solutions, diagnostics, drivers and downloads, and
learn more about your computer through videos, manuals and
documents.
Your Dell computer is uniquely identified by a Service Tag or
Express Service Code. To view relevant support resources for
your Dell computer, enter the Service Tag or Express Service
Code at www.dell.com/support.
For more information on how to find the Service Tag for your
computer, see Locate the Service Tag on your computer.
Dell knowledge base articles for a variety of computer
concerns 1. Go to www.dell.com/support.
2. On the menu bar at the top of the Support page, select
Support > Knowledge Base.
3. In the Search field on the Knowledge Base page, type the
keyword, topic, or model number, and then click or tap the
search icon to view the related articles.
Contacting Dell
To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues, see www.dell.com/contactdell.
NOTE: Availability varies by country/region and product, and some services may not be available in your country/region.
NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information about your purchase invoice,
packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.
6
Getting help and contacting Dell 77