Opening the Case

To perform work in the internal components of the computer, you must open the case, which has two removable parts:

•A chassis cover, that surrounds the sides and top of the system

•A front faceplate (bezel) that covers the front of the system

Because the components inside your computer are extremely sensitive to static electricity, be sure to follow the precautions for avoiding static electricity damage at the beginning of this chapter.

To remove the chassis cover

1.Turn off the computer and disconnect all power cords.

2.Remove the thumbscrew or lock on the back of the case.

3.Locate the latches at the rear sides of the case, and pull both latches out until they clear the chassis.

Rear view

Important!

Only qualified personnel should open the system for maintenance. You need a grounding wrist strap and the proper tools to remove the computer’s cover.

Warning!

To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer and unplug the power cord before removing the system cover.

Case Access 3