3
Opening and Closing the Case
Opening the system for service or upgrades consists of two simple steps. Remove the top
cover first, then remove the left side panel. No tools are needed. You need only remove the
top cover and left side panel for most routine service procedures. See Chapter 2, “Servicing
the System,” for additional details on removing and replacing case components.
The left side panel has a tab that closes an interlock switch inside the power supply. When
you take off the left side panel, the safety interlock removes AC power to the system.
WARNING
Do not attempt to defeat the safety interlock and run the system with the left side panel
removed. Personal injury and equipment damage can result.
CAUTION
Before you open the case, shut down the system and turn off power to the system and
external devices (including peripheral drives and display). Use caution to avoid injury when
lifting the computer or removing covers and other hardware.
NOTE
Removing the right side panel is necessary only for servicing internal bay disk drives, the
plastic cowling on the right panel, or the face panel.
To open the case:
1. Ensure the system is shut down and that you have disconnected the system and any
attached external devices from AC power.
2. Grasp the lip on the top cover at the rear of the system and press up on the release. See
the following figure.
Press up on release located under lip
