Tuesday 21 April 2015

Replacing An Internal Modem On A Dell Computer

Installing a modem on a Dell computer is easy.


Installing a modem on a Dell computer is a fairly straightforward procedure. Whether it is a dial-up modem or an Ethernet card, the card slots are the same and the internal layout of Dell systems are similar, with only minor differences. The only real drawback to installing a new component on a Dell is that there is not much space inside, making it a delicate operation.


Instructions


1. Save any open files and close all programs running on the PC. Shut down the computer. Wait for the computer to power down and check to make sure that no peripheral devices are running. Unplug the power cable.


2. Remove all peripheral connections from the back of the unit, including the mouse, keyboard, printer and telephone or network cable. Move the unit to a empty table or other flat surface with sufficient space on which to work.


3. Lay the unit on its side with the cover facing up. Most newer Dell units have a release latch on the top panel of the unit, while others have a latch on the back of the unit. Pull back on the release latch; the cover should loosen. If it does not immediately loosen, give the cover a nudge while continuing to pull back on the release latch. Slowly pivot the cover up and away from the unit and set it aside. Touch the power supply unit to get grounded.


4. Rotate the power supply out of the computer by releasing the latch and lifting the power supply unit. It's important to keep the drive power cables clear.


5. Locate the filler bracket of an empty slot. The PCI card slots are usually located to the rear, at the bottom of the unit, just under the motherboard. Turning the Phillip screwdriver to the left, loosen the screw holding the filler bracket in place. Remove the filler bracket and set it aside. Place the screw in a secure location.


6. Locate the card slot just inside the empty bracket. Notice that the slot is divided by a cross bar. Grasp the modem card at the corners with the connector pins facing the connector slot. Align the cutout dividing the connector pins with the cross bar. Carefully, but firmly, push the card into the slot until the card locks into place. The card should make a subtle, but audible snapping sound when it is fully seated. The bracket should be resting neatly inside the empty slot at the back of the unit. Insert the screw into the bracket.


7. Return the power supply unit back into position until the release latch clicks. Rest the drive power cables along the top of the latch.


8. Replace the cover and return the unit to its place, plugging the peripheral cables into their respective connections. Plug in the power and boot up the unit.


9. Install the drivers for the new modem. After the unit powers up, the system should recognize the new hardware added. Insert the installation disk that came with the new modem and run the program. Once the driver files are installed, the modem should function normally.

Tags: power supply, release latch, back unit, filler bracket, power supply unit, supply unit, back release