Checking Motherboard Health

Overview

This document is meant to provide an overview of how to inspect the motherboard of a Dell PC for damage, wear and tear, and overall maintenance. This document will also include visual examples of a defective PC.

Failure to properly complete the following steps can lead to data loss. Card Concepts Inc. takes no responsibility for data loss due to human error, hardware failure, or other such circumstances.

Opening the computer

1. Pull the computer case lever until the lid is released. It can be removed once it pops up from the locked position.

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2. Pinch the hard drive release tabs and lift the drive out. Disconnect both cables from hard drive as it is being removed.

Old Dell PCs

New Dell PCs (XE2 and newer)

Old Dell PCs

New Dell PCs (XE2 and newer)

3. Look for blown capacitors which can confirm a motherboard failure. A normal capacitor will be flat on the top and clean.

Working capacitors

Blown capacitors

Working capacitors

Blown capacitors