Dell OptiPlex FX170 Motherboard Replacement

Written By: Frank Pecka
  • Comments: 1
Dell OptiPlex FX170 Motherboard Replacement

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

12

Time Required

20 - 30 minutes

Introduction

The motherboard replacement for the OptiPlex FX170, compared to other computers, is actually rather painless. One should, however, be familiar with preventing electro-static dischage (ESD) damage to electronics.

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    • With the base stand facing upwards, unscrew the 6mm Phillips #2 screw.

    • Pull the base stand straight up from the device.

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    • Unscrew and remove the eight 4mm Phillips #0 screws (four on top, four on bottom) from the top and bottom of the device.

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    • Run the flat side of the spudger along the entire line of the case starting from the back where the power plug and a small screw are located.

    • Use care to not apply excessive force that could damage retaining clips while running the spudger along the case.

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    • Once the clips have been released, gently disengage the cover from the rest of case by pulling in opposite directions.

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    • Using fingers, push the clips on either side of the RAM. The RAM will pop up at a 45 degree angle when both clips are disengaged.

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    • Lift and pull out the RAM.

    Is it possible to increase memory, maybe about 8 RAM? Have you try to install Debian Linux?

    Vic -

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    • Using the spudger, gently push on the underside of the memory board to loosen it. Gently grasp each side and pull up to release the memory board.

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    • To remove the battery, pull up on the connector that is plugged into the motherboard.

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    • Remove the two 4mm Phillips #00 screws that are along the back of the case.

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    • Remove the two foam bumpers that lie on top of the two front USB ports with fingers. Do not throw them away.

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    • Disconnect the speaker cable from the motherboard by gently pulling it straight up to disengage it from the port.

    • Remove the four 4mm Philips #0 screws that secure the motherboard to the case.

    • The screw in the corner where the RAM is located is covered by a small piece of Mylar tape, peel this tape back to reveal the screw. The tweezers can be helpful for this.

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    • Gently grasp the motherboard by the heat sink (the black finned piece). Lift the motherboard at an angle such that the ports along the back side come up first.

    • Continue lifting the motherboard, then slowly tilt the piece off to the right to break the Mylar tape over the front USB ports.

    • Be careful when handling the motherboard to prevent electro-static discharge (ESD) damage. If the motherboard is being removed as part of a prerequisite, place the motherboard into a bag designed to prevent a build up of a static charge (usually referred to as a static bag).

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

Author

Frank Pecka

Member since: 14/01/15

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