IBM produced Aptiva computers from 1994 to 2001. These desktops were built using several non-standard case designs. The cases are opened either by first removing case screws or through an alternative mechanism. Once you determine which case you have, learning to open it is a simple task.
Instructions
Cases with Screws
1. Turn the computer off and unplug it.
2. Locate and remove the case screws. Their location will depend on your particular model of Aptiva. There will either be four screws, one at each corner in the back of the case, or two screws in the top of the case directly behind the front panel or case handle. If the case screws are not thumb screws, use a screwdriver.
3. Slide the case open. It will slide forward if the screws were on top of the case and up if the screws were in the back of the case.
Cases without Screws
4. Turn the computer off and unplug it.
5. Slide the left panel of your case forward and then pull it out if your computer is model 2140 or 2142. These models are upright towers with a small handle on the back of the left side panel.
6. Turn the latch in the back of your case if there is one. Grab the bottom of the front panel, squeezing the release lever in the back of the panel, and pull the case cover forward.
7. Push the cover release button. It is located in the top left corner of the back of the horizontal style Aptiva cases. The front cover will drop down and reveal the cover release latch. Pull this latch to remove the case cover.
Tags: case screws, back case, case cover, computer unplug, corner back, cover release, front panel