If you are having problems with your computer, open the case to find out the source of the problem and fix it. Opening the computer case is quite easy, especially if its panels are fixed with special latches. Moreover, it is necessary to open the case in order to assemble a new computer. Carefully follow the directions in this article, and you can easily open the computer case.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Opening the Computer Case
Step 1. Determine which company made the computer or case
Do this before opening the computer case for cleaning or troubleshooting purposes. In most cases, the housing is opened with a screwdriver. But some companies make cases with special latches or buttons that can be opened by hands rather than tools, which greatly simplifies and speeds up the process.
- For example, to open the case of a DELL GX260 or GX270 computer, simply press two buttons (that is, you do not need to unscrew the screws). The HP D510 also has buttons that release the case.
- HP D510 computer case opens with thumb screws; such screws are unscrewed by hand, not with a screwdriver. The HP D50 computer case also opens with thumb screws.
- Dell Dimension 8200 computer case opens with a single button. Before opening the case of this computer, place it on the front panel (that is, the panel on which the optical drive is displayed).
Step 2. Get the tools you need
Do this when the housing is opened with tools. The appropriate tools will allow you to open the case quickly and accurately.
- In most cases, you will need a Phillips screwdriver. But if the case is closed with custom head screws, use another screwdriver.
- To work with computer components, you need an antistatic wrist strap that allows you to get rid of electrical charges on the human body. If you do not have one, simply touch the computer case or any metal object to neutralize electrical charges. However, it is recommended that you wear an anti-static wrist strap.
Step 3. Prepare your hands
Do this before opening the computer case. Wash your hands first. Do not tear off the body until your hands are dry; otherwise, there is a risk of electric shock. Also remove any jewelry from your hands.
Step 4. Remove the screws securing the side panels
Do this after preparing your hands. Do not forget to check if the case is closed with screws or latches / buttons - you may not need to unscrew anything. But in the vast majority of cases, the side panels are fixed with screws. Before opening the computer case, be sure to turn it off and unplug it from the electrical outlet.
- Read the operating instructions for your computer. It outlines the procedure for opening a computer case. As a rule, the corresponding figures show the screws that need to be removed to open the case.
- If there are no operating instructions, open the case to gain access to the motherboard. In most cases, you need to remove the side panel opposite the panel to which the computer connectors (USB ports, video connector, audio connector, and so on) adjoin. Unscrew the screws that secure the desired panel and remove it. Place the removed panel where it will not interfere with your work with the computer accessories.
Step 5. Get rid of static electricity
Neutralize any electrical charges on your hands before touching computer components. This will reduce the likelihood of injury or damage to components. Touch the ESD wrist strap occasionally. If such a bracelet is not available, touch the computer case or any metal object.
Be sure to get rid of electrical charges on your hands. Static electricity can damage computer components such as RAM modules, motherboards, and graphics cards
Part 2 of 2: Setting up your computer
Step 1. Take your computer out of the box
To install your computer, first take it out of the box. Do this in a suitable location. Lift the computer out of the box at a low height above hard surfaces to minimize damage if the computer falls.
- Get rid of any plastic packaging. For example, most monitors are covered with plastic wrap, which must be removed before using the computer.
- Place the monitor and computer where you will be working with it. Remember that air must flow to the computer from all directions to avoid overheating.
Step 2. Find and connect the video cable
Once you've taken your computer out of the box, proceed to install it. First you need to connect the video cable.
- There are different types of video cables depending on the video connectors of your monitor and computer. Typically, a video cable is included with the monitor; otherwise, read the instruction manual to determine the correct type of video cable.
- Connect the video cable to the back of your computer. You can find the correct connector on the back of your computer by looking at the corresponding video cable plug. If the plug is secured with screws, tighten them by hand.
Step 3. Connect the keyboard
Now you need to connect the keyboard. Typically, the keyboard is in the box with your computer, so take it out of the box and plastic bag. Identify the plug that connects the keyboard to the computer.
- The keyboard can be connected using a rectangular USB plug. In this case, connect the keyboard to any USB port on the back of the computer.
- The keyboard can be connected using a round PS / 2 plug. In this case, connect the keyboard to the appropriate (purple) PS / 2 connector on the back of the computer.
Step 4. Connect the mouse
Now plug in your mouse. The mouse is most likely packed in a plastic bag - dispose of it. The mouse connects to the computer using a PS / 2 plug or USB plug. In this case, connect the mouse to any USB port or the corresponding (green) PS / 2 connector on the back of the computer.
Step 5. Connect audio speakers or headphones
Do this after connecting your keyboard and mouse. In most cases, your speakers or headphones are connected to the audio jack, which is located on both the back and front of your computer.
Some audio connectors are color-coded. Headphones plug into the green jack, the microphone plugs into the pink jack, and the blue jack plugs into any other device, such as audio speakers
Step 6. Connect the power cord
Do this after connecting all peripheral devices. In most cases, desktop computers come with one, but sometimes two, power cords.
- Connect one power cable to the computer (to the connector on the rear panel) and to the voltage regulator. Connect the second power cable to the monitor and computer. (Note: today monitors are powered from an electrical outlet, not from a computer power supply - modern power supplies do not have a monitor connector at all!)
- Now plug the voltage regulator into an electrical outlet. If there is no voltage regulator, plug the computer directly into an electrical outlet; however, this is the worst case, as power surges can harm computer components.
Step 7. Turn on your computer and monitor
The computer will start without problems if all cables are connected correctly. If the computer does not turn on, check and make sure everything is connected as needed. If you cannot solve the problem with turning on the computer, call the phone number listed in the computer's instruction manual. Most likely, a service technician will help you troubleshoot.
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