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Dell INSPIRON 15 Owners Manual

Dell INSPIRON 15 - Laptop Notebook PC: Intel Pentium Dual Core T4200 Manual

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Dell INSPIRON 15 | Owners Manual - Page 1
Dell Inspiron M5040/15-N5040/ 15-N5050/3520 Owner's Manual Regulatory model: P18F Regulatory type: P18F001; P18F002; P18F003
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instructions are not followed. WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death. © 2011-2012 Dell Inc. All rights reserved. Trademarks used in this text: Dell™, the DELL logo, and Inspiron™ are trademarks of Dell ; P18F002; P18F003 2012 - 10 Rev. A01
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1 Before You Begin 9 Recommended Tools 9 Turning Off Your Computer 10 Before Working Inside Your Computer 10 2 Battery 13 Removing the Battery 13 Replacing the Battery 14 3 Keyboard 15 Removing the Keyboard 15 Replacing the Keyboard 17 4 Memory Module(s 19 Removing the Memory
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5 Optical Drive 23 Removing the Optical Drive 23 Replacing the Optical Drive 24 6 Wireless Mini-Card 25 Removing the Mini-Card 25 Replacing the Mini-Card 27 7 Palm-Rest Assembly 29 Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly 29 Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly 32 8 Power Button Board 35
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the Coin-Cell Battery 42 11 USB Board 43 Removing the USB Board 43 Replacing the USB Board 44 12 Thermal Cooling Assembly 45 Removing the Thermal Cooling Assembly 45 Replacing the Thermal Cooling Assembly 46 13 Processor Module (For Inspiron 15-N5050/15-N5040 Only 47 Removing
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15 Display 55 Display Assembly 55 Removing the Display Assembly 55 Replacing the Display Assembly 58 Display Bezel Module 66 17 System Board 67 Removing the System Board 67 Replacing the System Board 69 Entering the Service Tag in the BIOS 70 18 Flashing the BIOS 71 6 Contents
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Contents 7
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8 Contents
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Tools The procedures in this document may require the following tools: • Small flat-blade screwdriver • Phillips screwdriver • Plastic scribe • BIOS executable update program available at support.dell.com Before You Begin 9
Dell INSPIRON 15 | Owners Manual - Page 10
, see the documentation of your operating system for shut-down instructions. 3 Ensure that the computer is turned off. If your see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance. CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins
Dell INSPIRON 15 | Owners Manual - Page 11
due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered computer. See "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 10 and all attached devices. CAUTION: To disconnect a battery, see "Removing the Battery" on page 13, before working inside the computer. 7 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery"
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12 Before You Begin
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on your computer). CAUTION: To avoid damage to the computer, use only the battery designed for this particular Dell computer. Do not use batteries designed for other Dell computers. Removing the Battery 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Turn off the computer and turn it
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3 2 1 1 battery release latch 3 battery lock latch 2 battery Replacing the Battery 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Slide the battery into the battery bay until it clicks into place. 3 Slide the battery lock latch to the lock position. 14 Battery
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dell.com/regulatory_compliance. CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 13 15
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1 2 3 1 plastic scribe 3 keyboard 2 tabs (4) CAUTION: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-consuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the keyboard. 5 Carefully turn the keyboard over and place it on the palm rest assembly. 6 Lift the connector
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1 2 1 keyboard cable 2 keyboard Replacing the Keyboard 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Slide the keyboard cable into the the keyboard. 5 Close the display and turn the computer over. 6 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 14. Keyboard 17
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18 Keyboard
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to the system board, remove the main battery, see "Removing the Battery" on page 13, before working inside the computer. You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See the Specifications at support.dell.com/manuals for information on the type of memory
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in two connectors, install a memory module in the connector labeled "DIMM A" before you install a memory module in the connector labeled "DIMM B." 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Align the notch in the memory module with the tab in the memory-module connector. 3 Slide
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2 1 1 tab 2 notch 4 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 17. 5 Replace the battery, see "Replacing the Battery" on page 14, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical outlet. CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and
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22 Memory
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working inside the computer. Removing the Optical Drive 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 13. 3 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 15. 4 Remove the screw that secures the optical drive to the
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drive 2 screw 4 notch Replacing the Optical Drive 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Slide the optical drive Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 17. 5 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Optical Drive" on page 24. CAUTION: Before turning on
Dell INSPIRON 15 | Owners Manual - Page 25
to the system board, remove the main battery, see "Removing the Battery" on page 13, before working inside the computer. NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for Mini-Cards from sources other than Dell. If you ordered a wireless Mini-Card with your computer, the card is
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1 3 2 1 screw 3 Mini-Card 2 antenna cables (2) 6 Lift the Mini-Card out of the connector on the system board. 26 Wireless Mini-Card
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"Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the safety information that shipped with your computer. Replacing the Mini-Card 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Remove the new Mini-Card from its packaging. CAUTION: Use firm and even pressure to slide the card into place
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scheme for the Mini-Cards supported by your computer. Connectors on the Mini-Card WLAN (2 antenna cables) Main WLAN (white triangle) Auxiliary WLAN (black triangle) Antenna Cable Color Scheme white black 6 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 17. 7 Replace the battery. See
Dell INSPIRON 15 | Owners Manual - Page 29
dell.com/regulatory_compliance. CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell Assembly 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 13
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4 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 15. 5 Remove the two screws on the palm-rest assembly. CAUTION: Pull on the plastic tab on top of the connectors to avoid damaging the connectors. 6
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1 2 1 power-button board cable 2 touch-pad cable CAUTION: Carefully separate the palm rest from the computer base to avoid damage to the palm rest. 7 Using a plastic scribe, carefully pry out the palm-rest assembly and then ease the palm-rest assembly from the computer base 8 Lift the palm-rest
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2 plastic scribe 9 Remove the power button board. See "Removing the Power Button Board" on page 35. Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Replace the power button board. See "Replacing the Power Button Board" on page 36. 3 Align the palm
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7 Replace the 11 screws that secure the palm-rest assembly to the computer base. 8 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 14. CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do
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34 Palm-Rest Assembly
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on page 13, before working inside the computer. Removing the Power Button Board 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 13). 3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 29
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button board to the palm rest. 4 Turn the palm-rest assembly over. 5 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 32. 6 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 14. CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure
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a hard drive from a source other than Dell, you need to install an operating system, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive. Removing the Hard Drive 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 13. 3 Remove the two
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4 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 29. 5 Slide the hard drive to the right to disconnect it from the connector on the system board. 6 Lift the hard drive out of the computer base. 38 Hard Drive
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it to the connector on the system board. 5 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 32 Replace the two screws to the computer base. 7 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 14. CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace
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40 Hard Drive
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10 Coin-Cell Battery WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance. CAUTION: Only a certified service
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With the positive side up, snap the coin-cell battery into the battery socket on the system board. 3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 32. 4 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 14. CAUTION: Before turning on the computer
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servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery, see "Removing the Battery on page 9. 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 13. 3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8
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4 Replace the hard drive. See "Replacing the Hard Drive" on page 39. 5 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 32. 6 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 14. CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure
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13, before working inside the computer. Removing the Thermal Cooling Assembly 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 13. 3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 29
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and connect the display cable to the connector on the system board. 5 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 32. 6 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 14. CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure
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13 Processor Module (For Inspiron 15-N5050/15-N5040 Only) WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. NOTE: If you install a new processor, a new thermal-cooling assembly including an affixed thermal pad or a new thermal pad along with documentation to illustrate proper installation is shipped. 48 Processor Module (For Inspiron 15-N5050/15-N5040
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. 6 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 14. CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to the computer. Processor Module (For Inspiron 15-N5050/15-N5040 Only) 49
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50 Processor Module (For Inspiron 15-N5050/15-N5040 Only)
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damage to the system board, remove the main battery, see "Removing the Battery" on page 13, before working inside the computer. Removing the Hinge Cover 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 13. 3 Remove the screw that
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4 Turn the computer over. 5 Pry the hinge cover off the computer base. 1 52 Hinge Cover
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Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Align the tabs on the hinge cover with the slots on the computer base and snap the hinge cover into place. 3 Turn the computer over. 4 Replace the screw that secures the hinge cover to the computer base. 5 Replace the battery. See "Replacing
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54 Hinge Cover
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15 Display WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance. CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should
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4 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 29. 5 Remove the hinge cover. See "Removing the Hinge Cover" on page 51. 6 Disconnect the display cable from the connector on the system board. 56 Display
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Card" on page 25. 8 Make a note of the display cable and Mini-Card antenna cables routing and remove the cables from the routing guides. 9 Remove the four screws (two on each side) that secure the display assembly to the computer base. 10 Lift and remove the display assembly out of the computer base
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through the routing guides. 4 Connect the Mini-Card antenna cables to the Mini-Card. See "Replacing the Mini-Card" on page 27. 5 Connect the display cable to the connector on the system board. 6 Replace the hinge cover. See "Replacing the Hinge Cover" on page 53. 7 Follow the instructions from step
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the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 14. CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to the computer. Display Bezel Removing the Display Bezel 1 Follow the instructions in
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result in damage to the computer. Display Panel Removing the Display Panel 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Remove the display assembly. See the display cable and Mini-Card antenna cables routing and remove them from the routing guides on the display hinges. 60 Display
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1 2 3 4 6 5 1 camera cable 3 display panel 5 display cable 2 screws (6) 4 display cover 6 Mini-Card antenna cables 7 Lift the display panel off the display cover. 8 Remove the four screws (two on each side) that secure the display-panel brackets to the display panel. Display 61
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1 2 1 screws (4) 2 display-panel brackets (2) 9 Turn the display panel over and place it on a clean surface. 10 Peel and lift the tape that secures the display cable to the display-board connector and disconnect the display cable. 11 Make a note of the
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cable 2 display-board connector Replacing the Display Panel 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Attach the display (two on each side). 5 Route the display cable and Mini-Card antenna cables through the routing guides on the display hinges. 6 Align the screw holes on the
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64 Display
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" on page 13, before working inside the computer. Removing the Camera Module 1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9. 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 13. 3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 29
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Replace the hinge cover. See "Replacing the Hinge Cover" on page 53. 7 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 32. 8 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 14. CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure
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. See "Removing the Battery" on page 13. 4 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 15. 5 Remove the memory module(s). See "Removing the Memory Module(s)" on page 19. 6 Remove the optical drive. See "Removing the Optical Drive" on page 23. 7 Follow the instructions from step 3 to
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10 Remove the processor. See "Removing the Processor Module" on page 47. 11 Remove the Mini-Card. See "Removing the Mini-Card" on page 25. 12 Disconnect the speakers cable, USB-board cable, microphone cable, and AC-adapter cable from the connectors on the system board. 4 3 2 1 1
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system board. 5 Replace the Mini-Card. See "Replacing the Mini-Card" on page 27. 6 Replace the processor. See "Replacing the Processor Module" on page 48. 7 Replace the thermal cooling assembly. See "Replacing the Thermal Cooling Assembly" on page 46. 8 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step
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9 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 32. 10 Replace the optical service tag. See "Entering the Service Tag in the BIOS" on page 70. Entering the Service Tag in the BIOS 1 Ensure that the AC adapter is plugged in and that the main battery
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is available or when replacing the system board. To flash the BIOS: 1 Turn on the computer. 2 Go to support.dell.com/support/downloads. 3 Locate the BIOS update file for your computer: NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located on a label at the bottom of your computer. If you have your
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8 Double-click the file icon on the desktop and follow the instructions on the screen. 72 Flashing the BIOS

Section	Page
Dell Inspiron M5040/15-N5040/ 15-N5050/3520 Owner’s Manual	1
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings	2
Contents	3
1	9
Before You Begin	9
Recommended Tools	9
Turning Off Your Computer	10
1 Save and close all open files and exit all open programs.	10
2 Shut down your computer.	10
3 Ensure that the computer is turned off. If your computer did not automatically turn off when you shut down the operating system, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off.	10
Before Working Inside Your Computer	10
1 Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.	11
2 Turn off your computer. See \	11
3 Disconnect all telephone or network cables from the computer.	11
4 Press and eject any installed cards from the 3-in-1 media card reader.	11
5 Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.	11
6 Disconnect all attached devices from your computer.	11
7 Remove the battery. See \	11
8 Turn the computer top-side up, open the display, and press the power button to ground the system board.	11
2	13
Battery	13
Removing the Battery	13
1 Follow the instructions in \	13
2 Turn off the computer and turn it over.	13
3 Slide the battery lock latch to the unlock position until it clicks into place.	13
4 Slide and hold the battery release latch in the unlock position.	13
5 Slide and lift the battery out of the battery bay.	13
Replacing the Battery	14
1 Follow the instructions in \	14
2 Slide the battery into the battery bay until it clicks into place.	14
3 Slide the battery lock latch to the lock position.	14
3	15
Keyboard	15
Removing the Keyboard	15
1 Follow the instructions in \	15
2 Remove the battery. See \	15
3 Turn the computer over and open the display as far as possible.	15
4 Using a plastic scribe, release the four tabs that secure the keyboard to the palm rest and ease the keyboard up until it clears off the palm rest.	15
5 Carefully turn the keyboard over and place it on the palm rest assembly.	16
6 Lift the connector latch that secures the keyboard cable to the connector on the system board and remove the keyboard cable.	16
7 Lift the keyboard off the computer.	16
Replacing the Keyboard	17
1 Follow the instructions in \	17
2 Slide the keyboard cable into the connector on the system board. Press down on the connector latch to secure the keyboard cable to the connector on the system board.	17
3 Slide the tabs on the keyboard into the slots on the palm rest.	17
4 Gently press around the edges of the keyboard to lock the four tabs securing the keyboard.	17
5 Close the display and turn the computer over.	17
6 Replace the battery. See \	17
4	19
Memory Module(s)	19
Removing the Memory Module(s)	19
1 Follow the instructions in \	19
2 Remove the battery. See \	19
3 Remove the keyboard. See \	19
4 Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory-module connector until the module pops up.	19
5 Remove the memory module from the memory-module connector.	19
Replacing the Memory Module(s)	20
1 Follow the instructions in \	20
2 Align the notch in the memory module with the tab in the memory-module connector.	20
3 Slide the memory module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and press the memory module down until it clicks into place. If you do not hear the click, remove the memory module and reinstall it.	20
4 Replace the keyboard. See \	21
5 Replace the battery, see \	21
6 Turn on the computer.	21
5	23
Optical Drive	23
Removing the Optical Drive	23
1 Follow the instructions in \	23
2 Remove the battery. See \	23
3 Remove the keyboard. See \	23
4 Remove the screw that secures the optical drive to the computer base.	23
5 Using a plastic scribe, push the notch on the optical drive to release it from the optical-drive compartment.	23
6 Slide the optical drive out of the optical-drive compartment.	23
Replacing the Optical Drive	24
1 Follow the instructions in \	24
2 Slide the optical drive into the optical-drive compartment until it is fully seated.	24
3 Replace the screw that secures the optical drive to the computer base.	24
4 Replace the keyboard. See \	24
5 Replace the battery. See \	24
6	25
Wireless Mini-Card	25
Removing the Mini-Card	25
1 Follow the instructions in \	25
2 Remove the battery. See \	25
3 Remove the keyboard. See \	25
4 Disconnect the antenna cables from the Mini-Card.	25
5 Remove the screw that secures the Mini-Card to the system board.	25
6 Lift the Mini-Card out of the connector on the system board.	26
Replacing the Mini-Card	27
1 Follow the instructions in \	27
2 Remove the new Mini-Card from its packaging.	27
3 Insert the Mini-Card connector at a 45-degree angle into the connector on the system-board.	27
4 Press the other end of the Mini-Card down into the slot on the system board and replace the screw that secures the Mini-Card to the system board.	28
5 Connect the appropriate antenna cables to the Mini-Card you are installing. The following table provides the antenna cable color scheme for the Mini-Cards supported by your computer.	28
6 Replace the keyboard. See \	28
7 Replace the battery. See \	28
8 Install the drivers and utilities for your computer, as required.	28
7	29
Palm-Rest Assembly	29
Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly	29
1 Follow the instructions in \	29
2 Remove the battery. See \	29
3 Remove the 11 screws that secure the palm-rest assembly to the computer base.	29
4 Remove the keyboard. See \	30
5 Remove the two screws on the palm-rest assembly.	30
6 Lift the connector latch that secures the power-button board cable and touch-pad cable to the connectors on the system board and remove the cables.	30
7 Using a plastic scribe, carefully pry out the palm-rest assembly and then ease the palm-rest assembly from the computer base	31
8 Lift the palm-rest assembly off the computer base.	31
9 Remove the power button board. See \	32
Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly	32
1 Follow the instructions in \	32
2 Replace the power button board. See \	32
3 Align the palm-rest assembly on the computer base and gently snap the palm-rest assembly into place.	32
4 Slide the touch-pad cable and power-button board cable into the connectors on the system board and press down on the connector latches to secure them.	32
5 Replace the two screws on the palm-rest assembly.	32
6 Replace the keyboard. See \	32
7 Replace the 11 screws that secure the palm-rest assembly to the computer base.	33
8 Replace the battery. See \	33
8	35
Power Button Board	35
Removing the Power Button Board	35
1 Follow the instructions in \	35
2 Remove the battery. See \	35
3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in \	35
4 Turn the palm-rest assembly over.	35
5 Remove the screw that secures the power button board to the palm rest.	35
6 Push and release the tabs that secure the power button board to the palm rest.	35
7 Lift the power button board along with its cable away from the palm rest.	35
Replacing the Power Button Board	36
1 Follow the instructions in \	36
2 Using the alignment post, place the power button board on the palm rest assembly and snap it into place.	36
3 Replace the screw that secures the power button board to the palm rest.	36
4 Turn the palm-rest assembly over.	36
5 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in \	36
6 Replace the battery. See \	36
9	37
Hard Drive	37
Removing the Hard Drive	37
1 Follow the instructions in \	37
2 Remove the battery. See \	37
3 Remove the two screws from the computer base.	37
4 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in \	38
5 Slide the hard drive to the right to disconnect it from the connector on the system board.	38
6 Lift the hard drive out of the computer base.	38
Replacing the Hard Drive	39
1 Follow the instructions in \	39
2 Remove the new hard drive from its packaging.	39
3 Place the hard drive on the computer base.	39
4 Push the hard drive towards the left to connect it to the connector on the system board.	39
5 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in \	39
6 Replace the two screws to the computer base.	39
7 Replace the battery. See \	39
10	41
Coin-Cell Battery	41
Removing the Coin-Cell Battery	41
1 Follow the instructions in \	41
2 Remove the battery. See \	41
3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in \	41
4 Using a plastic scribe, gently pry the coin-cell out of the battery socket on the system board.	41
5 Lift the coin-cell battery out of the battery socket on the system board.	41
Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery	42
1 Follow the instructions in \	42
2 With the positive side up, snap the coin-cell battery into the battery socket on the system board.	42
3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in \	42
4 Replace the battery. See \	42
11	43
USB Board	43
Removing the USB Board	43
1 Follow the procedures in \	43
2 Remove the battery. See \	43
3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in \	43
4 Remove the hard drive. See \	43
5 Lift the connector latch that secures the USB-board cable to the connector on the USB board and remove the USB-board cable.	43
6 Release the tabs that secure the USB board to the computer base and lift the USB board off the computer base.	43
Replacing the USB Board	44
1 Follow the procedures in \	44
2 Slide the connectors on the USB board into the slots on the computer base and snap the USB board into place.	44
3 Slide the USB-board cable into the connector on the USB board. Press down on the connector latch to secure the USB-board cable to the connector on the USB board.	44
4 Replace the hard drive. See \	44
5 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in \	44
6 Replace the battery. See \	44
12	45
Thermal Cooling Assembly	45
Removing the Thermal Cooling Assembly	45
1 Follow the instructions in \	45
2 Remove the battery. See \	45
3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in \	45
4 Disconnect the display cable from the connector on the system board and peel the cable off the thermal cooling assembly.	45
5 Disconnect the fan cable from the connector on the system board.	45
6 In sequential order (indicated on the thermal cooling assembly), loosen the four captive screws that secure the thermal cooling assembly to the system board.	45
7 Lift the thermal cooling assembly away from the computer.	45
Replacing the Thermal Cooling Assembly	46
1 Follow the instructions in \	46
2 Align the four captive screws on the thermal cooling assembly with the screw holes on the system board and tighten the screws in sequential order (indicated on the thermal cooling assembly).	46
3 Connect the fan cable to the connector on the system board.	46
4 Attach the display cable to the thermal cooling assembly and connect the display cable to the connector on the system board.	46
5 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in \	46
6 Replace the battery. See \	46
13	47
Processor Module (For Inspiron 15-N5050/15-N5040 Only)	47
Removing the Processor Module	47
1 Follow the instructions in \	47
2 Remove the battery. See \	47
3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in \	47
4 Remove the thermal cooling assembly. See \	47
5 To loosen the ZIF socket, use a small, flat-blade screwdriver and rotate the ZIF-socket cam screw counterclockwise until it comes to stop.	47
6 Lift the processor module from the ZIF socket.	48
Replacing the Processor Module	48
1 Follow the instructions in \	48
2 Align the pin-1 corner of the processor module with the pin-1 corner of the ZIF socket, then insert the processor module.	49
3 Tighten the ZIF socket by turning the cam screw clockwise to secure the processor module to the system board.	49
4 Replace the thermal cooling assembly. See \	49
5 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in \	49
6 Replace the battery. See \	49
14	51
Hinge Cover	51
Removing the Hinge Cover	51
1 Follow the instructions in \	51
2 Remove the battery. See \	51
3 Remove the screw that secures the hinge cover to the computer base.	51
4 Turn the computer over.	52
5 Pry the hinge cover off the computer base.	52
Replacing the Hinge Cover	53
1 Follow the instructions in \	53
2 Align the tabs on the hinge cover with the slots on the computer base and snap the hinge cover into place.	53
3 Turn the computer over.	53
4 Replace the screw that secures the hinge cover to the computer base.	53
5 Replace the battery. See \	53
15	55
Display	55
Display Assembly	55
Removing the Display Assembly	55
1 Follow the instructions in \	55
2 Remove the battery. See \	55
3 Remove the two screws from the computer base.	55
4 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in \	56
5 Remove the hinge cover. See \	56
6 Disconnect the display cable from the connector on the system board.	56
7 Disconnect the Mini-Card antenna cables from the connectors on the Mini-Card. See \	57
8 Make a note of the display cable and Mini-Card antenna cables routing and remove the cables from the routing guides.	57
9 Remove the four screws (two on each side) that secure the display assembly to the computer base.	57
10 Lift and remove the display assembly out of the computer base.	57
Replacing the Display Assembly	58
1 Follow the instructions in \	58
2 Place the display assembly in position and replace the four screws (two on each side) that secure the display assembly to the computer base.	58
3 Route the display cable and Mini-Card antenna cables through the routing guides.	58
4 Connect the Mini-Card antenna cables to the Mini-Card. See \	58
5 Connect the display cable to the connector on the system board.	58
6 Replace the hinge cover. See \	58
7 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in \	58
8 Replace the two screws to the computer base.	59
9 Replace the battery. See \	59
Display Bezel	59
Removing the Display Bezel	59
1 Follow the instructions in \	59
2 Remove the display assembly. See \	59
3 Using your fingertips, carefully pry up the inside edge of the display bezel.	59
4 Remove the display bezel.	59
Replacing the Display Bezel	60
1 Follow the instructions in \	60
2 Realign the display bezel over the display panel and gently snap into place.	60
3 Replace the display assembly. See \	60
Removing the Display Panel	60
1 Follow the instructions in \	60
2 Remove the display assembly. See \	60
3 Remove the display bezel. See \	60
4 Disconnect the camera cable from the connector on the camera module.	60
5 Remove the six screws that secure the display panel to the display cover.	60
6 Make a note of the display cable and Mini-Card antenna cables routing and remove them from the routing guides on the display hinges.	60
7 Lift the display panel off the display cover.	61
8 Remove the four screws (two on each side) that secure the display-panel brackets to the display panel.	61
9 Turn the display panel over and place it on a clean surface.	62
10 Peel and lift the tape that secures the display cable to the display-board connector and disconnect the display cable.	62
11 Make a note of the display cable routing and peel the cable from the back of the display panel.	62
Replacing the Display Panel	63
1 Follow the instructions in \	63
2 Attach the display cable to the back of the display panel.	63
3 Connect the display cable to the display-board connector and secure it with the tape.	63
4 Align the screw holes on the display bracket with the screw holes on the display panel and replace the four screws (two on each side).	63
5 Route the display cable and Mini-Card antenna cables through the routing guides on the display hinges.	63
6 Align the screw holes on the display panel with the screw holes on the display cover and replace the six screws.	63
7 Replace the display bezel. See \	63
8 Replace the display assembly. See \	63
16	65
Camera Module	65
Removing the Camera Module	65
1 Follow the instructions in \	65
2 Remove the battery. See \	65
3 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in \	65
4 Remove the hinge cover. See \	65
5 Remove the display assembly. See \	65
6 Remove the display bezel. See \	65
7 Disconnect the camera cable from the connector on the camera module.	65
8 Release the two tabs that secure the camera module to the display cover.	65
9 Lift the camera module from the display cover.	65
Replacing the Camera Module	66
1 Follow the instructions in \	66
2 Connect the camera cable to the connector on the camera module.	66
3 Use the alignment posts on the display cover to snap the camera module into position.	66
4 Replace the display bezel. See \	66
5 Replace the display assembly. See \	66
6 Replace the hinge cover. See \	66
7 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in \	66
8 Replace the battery. See \	66
17	67
System Board	67
Removing the System Board	67
1 Follow the instructions in \	67
2 Press and eject any installed cards from the 3-in-1 media card reader.	67
3 Remove the battery. See \	67
4 Remove the keyboard. See \	67
5 Remove the memory module(s). See \	67
6 Remove the optical drive. See \	67
7 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 8 in \	67
8 Follow the instructions from step 5 to step 6 in \	67
9 Remove the thermal cooling assembly. See \	67
10 Remove the processor. See \	68
11 Remove the Mini-Card. See \	68
12 Disconnect the speakers cable, USB-board cable, microphone cable, and AC-adapter cable from the connectors on the system board.	68
13 Remove the two screws that secure the system board to the computer base.	68
14 Lift the system board at an angle and release the connectors on the system board from the slots on the computer base.	68
Replacing the System Board	69
1 Follow the instructions in \	69
2 Slide the connectors on the system board into the slots on the computer base.	69
3 Replace the two screws that secure the system board to the computer base.	69
4 Connect the speakers cable, USB-board cable, microphone cable, and AC-adapter cable to the connectors on the system board.	69
5 Replace the Mini-Card. See \	69
6 Replace the processor. See \	69
7 Replace the thermal cooling assembly. See \	69
8 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 4 in \	69
9 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 7 in \	70
10 Replace the optical drive. See \	70
11 Replace the memory module. See \	70
12 Replace the keyboard. See \	70
13 Replace the battery. See \	70
14 Replace any removed cards or blanks in the 3-in-1 media card reader.	70
15 Turn on the computer.	70
16 Enter the service tag. See \	70
Entering the Service Tag in the BIOS	70
1 Ensure that the AC adapter is plugged in and that the main battery is installed properly.	70
2 Turn on the computer.	70
3 Press <F2> during POST to enter the system setup program.	70
4 Navigate to the security tab and enter the service tag in the Set Service Tag field.	70
18	71
Flashing the BIOS	71
1 Turn on the computer.	71
2 Go to support.dell.com/support/downloads.	71
3 Locate the BIOS update file for your computer:	71
a Click Enter a Tag.	71
b Enter your computer’s Service Tag in the Enter a service tag: field, click Go, and proceed to step 4.	71
a Click Select Model.	71
b Select the type of product in the Select Your Product Family list.	71
c Select the product brand in the Select Your Product Line list.	71
d Select the product model number in the Select Your Product Model list.	71
e Click Confirm.	71
4 A list of results appear on the screen. Click BIOS.	71
5 Click Download Now to download the latest BIOS file. The File Download window appears.	71
6 Click Save to save the file on your desktop. The file downloads to your desktop.	71
7 Click Close if the Download Complete window appears. The file icon appears on your desktop and is titled the same as the downloaded BIOS update file.	71

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Dell Inspiron M5040/15-N5040/

15-N5050/3520

Owner’s Manual

Regulatory model: P18F

Regulatory type: P18F001; P18F002; P18F003