Solving Problems 87
If Your Computer Gets Wet CAUTION: Perform this procedure only after you are certain that it is safe to do
so. If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, it is recommended that
you turn off AC power at the circuit breaker before attempting to remove the
power cables from the electrical outlet. Use the utmost caution when removing
wet cables from a live power source.
1Shut down the computer (see page 40), disconnect the AC adapter from the
computer, and then disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet.
2Turn off any attached external devices, and disconnect them from their power sources
and then from the computer.
3Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
4Remove any installed PC Cards, and put them in a safe place to dry.
5Remove the battery.
6Wipe off the battery and put it in a safe place to dry.
7Wipe off the dis play.
8Remove the hard drive (see page 106).
9Remove the memory module(s) (see page100).
10 Open the display and place the computer right-side up across two books or similar
props to let air circulate all around it. Let the computer dry for at least 24 hours in a
dry area at room temperature.
NOTICE: Do not use artificial means, such as a hair dryer or a fan, to speed the drying process.
CAUTION: To help prevent electrical shock, verify that the computer is
thoroughly dry before continuing with the rest of this procedure.
11 Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
12 Replace the memory module(s), the memory module cover, and the screw(s).
13 Replace the hard drive.
14 Replace any PC Cards you removed.
CONTACT DELL —If you cannot solve your problem using the Dell™ Support
website or e-mail service, call Dell for technical assistance (see page 126). See
"Dell Technical Support Policy (U.S.Only)" on page 125 for a description of the
hardware and software support provided by Dell.