Inspiron 15 3521 Service Manual

Installing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive

If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.

The following images indicate the location of the M.2 2230 solid-state drive and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Image of installing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive

Align the notch on the M.2 2230 solid-state drive with the tab on the M.2 card slot on the system board.
Slide the M.2 2230 solid-state drive into the M.2 card slot on the system board.
Place the M.2 2230 solid-state drive thermal plate on the M.2 2230 solid-state drive.
NOTE: When installing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive thermal plate on the system, tuck the tabs on the M.2 2230 solid-state drive thermal plate under the hooks on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Align the screw hole on the M.2 2230 solid-state drive thermal plate with the screw hole on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.
Replace the screw (M2x2) to secure the M.2 2230 solid-state drive thermal plate to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Install the base cover.
Install the secure digital card.
Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.
Verify if the storage device is installed correctly:
1. Turn on or restart your system.
2. Press F2 when the Dell logo is displayed on the screen to enter the system setup (BIOS) program.
  NOTE: A list of storage devices is displayed under the System Information in the General group.
3. If you have replaced the primary storage device that had the operating system installed, see Reinstall Windows 11 to the Dell factory image using recovery media in the knowledge base article 000192698.