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Before You Begin
Dell™ Dimension™ E521 Service Manual
Getting Started
Recommended Tools
Turning Off Your Computer
Before Working Inside Your Computer
Getting Started
This manual provides procedures for removing and replacing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:
•You have performed the steps in Turning Off Your Computer and Before Working Inside Your Computer.
•You have read the safety information in your Dell™ Product Information Guide.
•A component can be installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.
Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
•Small
•Phillips screwdriver
•Flash BIOS update program (download)
Turning Off Your Computer
NOTICE: To avoid losing data, save and close any open files and exit any open programs before you turn off your computer.
1.Shut down the operating system:
a.Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, click the Start button, and then click Shutdown.
b.In the Shut Down Windows window, select Shut down.
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.
2.Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds.
Before Working Inside Your Computer
Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help ensure your own personal safety.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.
NOTICE: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.
NOTICE: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer.
1. Turn off your computer. See Turning Off Your Computer.