Next Do This
If you are comfortable with opening the case of your PC do this:
Note: If you find you have to disconnect any USB cables make sure you mark the cable and make a note of where it was plugged in. If you plug a “USB Device” into a different connector than the one it was in the system will see it as a new device and install it which may/will cause you grief later.
Note: Do not do this in an environment with a any static.
Unplug the power plug from the back of the PC and remove the side panel (some dell computers open like a clamshell, some older computers may require you to remove the entire case cover)
You will see something that looks roughly like this (Note: the location of the components will most likely be different in your pc):
Find the Memory module or modules. Remove one by pressing down on the levers at each end of the memory module socket. Look at the connectors on the bottom of the module, if they look dull take a plain eraser (not ink) and “erase” the dullness. Replace the memory module by lining it up in it’s socket (the memory module has key slots make sure they line up with the “keys” in the socket) and pressing down on it util the levers at the end snap in place. Repeat for any other Memory modules.
If there are any “cards” in the “slots” loosen the screw holding the card down. Pull the card out “erase” any dullness on the cards connector. Replace the card in it’s slot and screw it down. Repeat for other cards.
Press on all of the “drive” connectors to make sure they are seated.
Look at everything. make sure you have correctly seated the memory modules and cards and have not accidently pulled out any connectors.
The last thing you need to do is check the cpu fan. To do this you need to plug the power cord into the PC (if you have disconnected all if the cables such as keyboard and mouse don’t worry about it go on and plug it in anyway).
Press the PC’s power button, it should come on and the fan on top of the CPU should be turning rapidly. If it is not turning press and hold the power button until the PC shuts off. The fan not turning may be an indication that the fan may need to be replaced but first check to see if you have accidently pulled the fans plug out. If you have pulled the fan plug out look for a matching connector usually labelled CPU FAN and plug it back in. (Note: if you get unusual beeps when you turn the computer on check the seating of the memory modules.)
Turn off the computer by the normal shutdown (if your monitor and keyboard are connected) or by pressing and holding the power button util the PC shuts down.
Replace the cover on your PC and reconnct anything you may have disconnected (keyboard, mouse, etc.) and start it normally.
MORE TO COME: Replacing the cpu fan or cooler.
