In this video we will demonstrate how to replace the M.2 2280 Solid-State Drive or SSD with an M.2 2230 solid-state drive. Before removing the SSD, read through the safety guidelines to protect your computer from potential damage and ensure your personal safety. For more information about safety guidelines, see the Service Manual at Dell.com/Support. Before you begin, ensure that you create a recovery drive and back up all data. Turn off your computer and disconnect all attached peripherals.
To begin, remove the microSD card if applicable. To enter Service Mode, shut down the computer and disconnect the AC adapter. Press and hold the B key on the keyboard, and then press the power button for 3 seconds until the Dell logo appears on the screen. Now, the computer will boot up and the Owner Tag screen is displayed. Press any key to proceed, the computer will emit three short beeps and shuts down to enter Service Mode.
Now, turn the computer over and loosen the eight captive screws that secure the base cover to the palm-rest assembly. Using the flat end of a plastic scribe, pry open the base cover starting from the U-shaped recesses near the hinges at the top edge of the base cover and work your way around. Lift and remove the base cover off the palm-rest assembly. Now let’s remove the M.2-2280 from the slot and install M.2-2230.
To begin with, remove the two screws that secure the SSD shield and remove the shield from the SSD. Now, slide and remove the M.2 2280 SSD from the solid-state drive slot on the system board. Place the M.2 2230 solid state drive on the extension bracket and adhere the mylar tape to hold it together. Now, align the notch and gently slide the solid-state drive into the solid-state drive slot on the system board along with the SSD extension bracket.
Replace the SSD shield, press to fit it firmly to cover the SSD and replace the two screws to secure the SSD shield and the solid-state drive. Align and place the base cover on the palm-rest assembly. Gently press the edges and sides of the base cover until it clicks into place. Now, tighten the eight captive screws to secure the base cover to the palm-rest assembly.
Now connect the AC adapter and press the power button to power on the computer and exit from Service Mode. Insert the micro-SD card back into its slot until it clicks into place. You have now successfully removed the M.2-2280 from the solid-state drive slot and installed the M.2 2230 SSD. You can now connect all the peripherals and turn on your computer. For more information, see the Service Manual document at Dell.com/Support.
