Help how to open Dell Dimension 5150!!

loulou41

Dell dimension 5150. Problems with the fascia in front of the computer (tower part) which consists of the dvd drive, then the blanking plate, and then the card reader. The blanking plate below the dvd drive has moved exposing the inside of the computer. This computer is like a box of tin. It looks as if the computer's tower needs to be opened and the blanking plate pushed back. I do not know what to do. I have tried to open the tower without sucess. It is not urgent as the computer works OK but am concerned about the part being exposed and dust getting in. Please can somebody advise me. I have e-mailed Dell technical support for advice as well. Thanks

Chippy_Minton

See Removing the Computer Cover at http://support.euro.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim5150/en/sm/index.htm

The cover hinges up and locks 'open' if you open it far enough.

Read the 'Before you Begin' section first and remember to earth yourself occasionally to prevent static by touching the metal chassis of the computer.

loulou41

I have been asked to open the computer but am not confident to fix it myself. He has asked to remove heat sink assembly and fan assembly and pull out drive sot etc. I have bought a 3 yrs warranty, does anybody know if I can insist somebody come and fix for me. It might be a simple fix if you do know what you are doing. I do not wish ending up messing things. Thanks

Viz_2

When i had trouble, Dell was asking me over the phone to try all these different things too. Had never even looked inside a PC before.
I found it ok.

Just remember to either hold the inside metal frame as you work or press the power button on front of PC for 30 seconds (i think) to prevent damaging the components through static.

albertross_2

I imagine it is a really simple fix, if you look at the link Chippy posted, it shows you how to undo it, and how it fits together, just push the plate back in, and put the cover and front panel back. I wouldn't have thought that you would need to pull out heatsinks etc..