Introduction to the new features in 2020's Dell OptiPlex and Precision desktops

The following article provides information about the OptiPlex and Dell Precision desktops that are released in 2020. The new features that apply to these new systems.

Table of Contents:

1. RTC (Real-Time Clock) Reset
2. Clear a BIOS Password
3. New Diagnostic Error Codes
4. No Legacy Mode Support
5. Intel Desktop Processors without Intel Processor Graphics support

RTC (Real-Time Clock) Reset

Dell does not include RTC reset jumpers on the motherboards of its latest OptiPlex and Dell Precision desktops. You can find out more about this on the following article:

• How to Reset Real Time Clock (RTC) to Recover Your Dell Desktop System

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Clear a BIOS Password

Dell does not include Password clear Jumpers on the motherboards of its latest OptiPlex and Dell Precision desktops:

• You need the Master System Password to clear the admin and system password
• When you contact Dell Support, you are asked for a code that is shown on the locked system’s screen. The agent needs that code to get a 32 character master password generated, then the agent then relay that code to you

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New Diagnostic Error Codes

OptiPlex and Dell Precision desktops have added new error codes to the Notebook style of LED diagnostic indicator. These were introduced on the last generation of desktops. You can use the following articles to identify any start up error on your new desktop:

• A reference guide to the Dell OptiPlex Diagnostic Indicators
• A reference guide to the Dell Precision Workstation Diagnostic Indicators

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No Legacy Mode Support

The BIOS on the latest OptiPlex and Dell Precision desktops does not support Legacy Mode. Dell only supports UEFI mode on its new systems. You can find out more from the following article:

• Newer Dell systems unable to boot to internal boot device in Legacy boot mode

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Intel Desktop Processors without Intel Processor Graphics support

Some Intel Core processors that end with the letter F. Or Intel Core X-series Processors (processors with a number ending with X). These intel CPUs do not have the Intel Processors Graphics built-in. You can look up the processors from the article below from Intel support pages:

• Intel® Boxed Desktop Processors without Intel® Processor Graphics  (English Link)

If you purchase an OptiPlex or Dell Precision system with one of these CPUs, the non-active video ports are blanked off.

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