Alienware M18X User Manual

ALIENWARE® M18x

MOBILE MANUAL

Notes, Cautions, and Warnings

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.

WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

e contents herein are subject to change without notice.

Reproduction of these materials in any manner whatsoever without the prior written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Trademarks used in this manual: Alienware®, AlienFX®, and the AlienHead logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Alienware Corporation; Dell™ is a trademark of Dell Inc.; Microsoft®, Windows®, and the Windows start button logo are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries; Intel® and SpeedStep® are registered trademarks and Core™ is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries; Blu‑ray Disc™ is a trademark of the Blu‑ray Disc Association; Bluetooth® is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this manual to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Regulatory Model: P12E Regulatory Type: P12E001

P/N: P38V4 Rev. A00 February 2011

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP .................................... 7

Before Setting Up Your Laptop .......................................8

Connect the AC Adapter ..............................................9

Press the Power Button ..............................................9

Connect the Network Cable (Optional)................................10

Set Up Microsoft Windows...........................................10

Set Up WirelessHD (Optional)........................................ 11

Set Up Wireless Display (Optional) ................................... 11

Connect to the Internet (Optional) ...................................12

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP ............................ 15

Left View Features ..................................................16

Right View Features .................................................17

Back View Features..................................................18

Computer Base and Keyboard Features ............................. 20

Status Lights .......................................................21

Media Control Keys..................................................21

Power Button .......................................................22

Function Keys ......................................................23

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Alienware Command Center .........................................26

Connecting External Displays ........................................26

Using Removable Media and Cards...................................27

Using the Optical Drive ............................................. 28

Using the Integrated Camera ....................................... 28

Using the Wireless Control.......................................... 28

Battery Pack ........................................................29

Power Management.................................................29

Free Fall Sensor .................................................... 30

Conguring the BIOS ................................................31

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS ....37

Before You Begin................................................... 38

Replacing the Battery Pack ......................................... 40

Upgrading or Replacing Memory .....................................41

Upgrading or Replacing the Hard Drive(s) ........................... 43

.........................................25

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING .........................................47

Basic Hints and Tips................................................ 48

Backup and General Maintenance................................... 48

Software Diagnostic Tools .......................................... 49

Answers to Common Problems ..................................... 50

CHAPTER 6: SYSTEM RECOVERY ..........................................55

AlienRespawn ..................................................... 56

My Dell Downloads ................................................. 58

CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS .............................................59

APPENDIX ...............................................................67

GENERAL AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS................... 68

Contacting Alienware ...............................................70

CONTENTS

Dear Valued Alienware Customer,

Welcome to the Alienware family. We are thrilled to include you among the growing number of savvy high‑performance computer users.

e Alienware technicians who have crafted your computer have made certain

that your high‑performance computer is properly optimized and performs to its fullest potential. We build computers with a single unwavering purpose: Build

It As If It Were Your Own. e technicians will not rest until your new computer

meets or exceeds our very demanding criteria!

We have tested your computer extensively in order to ensure that you enjoy the highest levels of performance. In addition to a standard burn‑in period, your computer has been evaluated using real‑world tools such as synthetic performance benchmarks.

We invite you to share your experience with your new high‑performance computer with us, so do not hesitate to either e‑mail or call Alienware with any questions

or concerns. e entire sta shares your enthusiasm for new technology and we

hope that you enjoy using your new computer as much as Alienware enjoyed building it for you.

Sincerely,

Alienware Sta

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Before Setting Up Your Laptop

Product Documentation and Media

Congratulations on the purchase of your Alienware M18x!

Read all safety and setup instructions before connecting your new laptop. Begin by carefully opening the box and removing all components that were shipped to you. Before setting up your laptop or components, be sure to inspect all items for any physical damage that may have occurred during shipment. Be sure to report any damaged items to customer service immediately upon receiving your

shipment. You must report shipping damage within the rst 5 days of receiving

the shipment or your damage report will not be honored.

Before setting up your laptop or components, see the included invoice to verify that all items ordered are present. Report any missing components to customer

service within 5 days of receiving the shipment. Anything reported missing after the rst 5 days of receiving a shipment will not be honored. Some of the most

common items to check for include:

Laptop and AC adapter with power cable• Microsoft CD‑key located at the bottom of the laptop• Monitor with power cable and video cable (if ordered)• Keyboard (if ordered)• Mouse (if ordered)• Multimedia speakers and sub‑woofer (if ordered)• Joystick controllers (if ordered)•

You may also need a small athead and/or a Phillips head screwdriver for

connecting peripheral cables to the laptop.

e documentation that ships with your Alienware laptop is designed to provide

answers to many of the questions that may arise as you explore your new laptop’s capabilities. You may see the documentation for technical information or general

use as needed to answer questions in the future, or aid you in nding answers and solutions. e media included with your laptop is referenced in some sections of

the documentation and may be needed to complete certain tasks. As always, our

technical support sta is available to assist you.

Placing Your Laptop

WARNING: Do not place the laptop near or over a radiator or heating vent. If your laptop is placed in a cabinet, ensure that adequate ventilation is provided. Do not place the laptop in a humid location or in any area where the laptop may be exposed to rain or water. Be careful not to spill liquid of any kind on or into the laptop.

When placing your laptop, ensure that:

It is placed on a surface that is both level and stable. •

e power and other cable connectors are not jammed between the laptop •

and a wall – or any other object.

Nothing obstructs airow in front of, behind, or below the laptop.

• e laptop has enough room so that optical drives and other external •

storage drives can be easily accessed.

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Press the Power ButtonConnect the AC Adapter

WARNING: e AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to a power strip or electrical outlet may cause re or equipment damage.

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Connect the Network Cable (Optional) Set Up Microsoft Windows

Your computer is precongured with the Microsoft Windows operating system. To set up Windows for the rst time, follow the instructions on the screen. ese steps are mandatory and may take some time to complete. e Windows setup

screens will take you through several procedures including accepting license agreements, setting preferences, and setting up an Internet connection.

CAUTION: Do not interrupt the operating system’s setup process. Doing so may render your computer unusable and you will need to reinstall the operating system.

NOTE: For optimal performance of your computer, it is recommended that

you download and install the latest BIOS and drivers for your computer available at support.dell.com.

NOTE: For more information on the operating system and features, see support.dell.com/MyNewDell.

NOTE: It is recommended that you create a full system backup as soon as

you set up Microsoft Windows.

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Set Up WirelessHD (Optional)

Set Up Wireless Display (Optional)

e WirelessHD feature allows you to share high-denition video from your

computer display to a TV without the use of cables. To set up WirelessHD, use a WirelessHD kit. For instructions on setting up WirelessHD, see the document that shipped with your WirelessHD kit.

NOTE: e WirelessHD kit does not ship with your computer and must be

purchased separately.

If your computer supports the WirelessHD feature, the WiHD Application Controller icon will be available on the Windows desktop.

NOTE: You may have to set up WirelessHD kit before you set up WirelessHD. For more information on setting up the WirelessHD kit, see the document that shipped with the WirelessHD kit.

To set up WirelessHD:

Turn on your computer.

1. Ensure that wireless is enabled on your computer.2. Double‑click the WiHD Application Controller icon 3. on the desktop.

e WirelessHD Application Controller window appears. Follow the instructions on the screen.

NOTE: e wireless display feature may not be supported on all computers.

For information about the hardware and software requirements for setting up wireless display, see intel.com.

NOTE: e wireless display feature is available on your computer only if you

ordered an Intel Wi‑Fi WLAN card and NVIDIA graphics card with Optimus technology or AMD Radeon graphics card at the time of purchase.

NOTE: It is recommended to use WirelessHD instead of wireless display for

graphic-intensive applications such as high-denition gaming.

e Intel wireless display feature allows you to share your computer display to a

TV without the use of cables. You must connect a wireless display adapter to your TV before setting up wireless display.

NOTE: e wireless display adapter does not ship with your computer and

must be purchased separately.

NOTE: For information on setting up the wireless display, see the document that shipped with the wireless display adapter.

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Connect to the Internet (Optional)

Setting Up a Wired Connection

If you are using a dial‑up connection, connect the telephone line to the • optional external USB modem and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection.

If you are using a DSL or cable/satellite modem connection, contact your ISP •

or cellular telephone service for setup instructions.

To complete setting up your wired Internet connection, follow the instructions in “Setting Up Your Internet Connection” on page 13.

Setting Up a Wireless Connection

NOTE: To set up your wireless router, see the documentation that shipped with your router.

Before you can use your wireless Internet connection, you need to connect to your wireless router.

To set up your connection to a wireless router:

Ensure that wireless is enabled on your computer.1. Save and close any open les, and exit any open programs.2. Click 3. Start → Control Panel. In the search box, type

4. network, and then click Network and Sharing Center→ Connect to a network.

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

ISPs and ISP oerings vary by country. Contact your ISP for oerings available in

your country.

If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past,

the Internet Service Provider (ISP) might have a service outage. Contact your ISP

to check the service status, or try connecting again later.

Have your ISP information ready. If you do not have an ISP, the Connect to the Internet wizard can help you get one.

Save and close any open les, and exit any open programs.1. Click 2. Start → Control Panel. In the search box, type

3. network, and then click Network and Sharing Center→ Set up a new connection or Network→ Connect to the Internet.

e Connect to the Internet window appears.

NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose or contact your ISP.

Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information

provided by your ISP to complete the setup.

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW

YOUR LAPTOP

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

is chapter provides information about your new laptop to familiarize you with

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

its various features, and get you up and running quickly.

Left View Features

digital audio and video signals.

NOTE: For a monitor without built‑in speakers, only the video signal will be read.

HDMI-output connector — Connects to a TV for both multi‑channel

Security cable slot — Attaches a commercially available security cable to

the computer.

NOTE: Before you buy a security cable, ensure that it ts into the security

cable slot on your computer.

Network connector — Connects your computer to a network or

broadband device.

VGA connector — Connects your computer to a monitor or projector.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

Mini-DisplayPort connector — Connects your computer to external

DisplayPort monitors and projectors.

USB 3.0 connectors (2) — Provide faster data transmission between

your computer and USB devices.

Audio-out/Headphone/S/PDIF connector — Connects to amplifiers,

speakers, or TVs for digital audio output. Can also be used to connect to a pair of headphones, powered speakers, or sound system.

NOTE: Use the S/PDIF adapter that shipped with your computer, to connect

a TOSLINK optical cable.

Microphone connector — Connects to a microphone or inputs signal

for use with audio programs.

Headphone connectors (2) — Connect to a pair of headphones or to a

powered speaker or sound system.

Right View Features

2 3 4 5 6

USB 2.0 connectors (2) — Connect to USB devices, such as a mouse,

keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player.

1 ExpressCard slot — Provides support for additional memory, wired and

wireless communications, multimedia, and security features. e slot supports 54 mm Express cards.

NOTE: e ExpressCard slot is designed only for ExpressCards. e slot does NOT support PC Cards.

2 Optical drive — Plays or records only standard-size (12 cm) CDs, DVDs, and

Blu‑ray Discs (optional). Ensure that the side with print or writing is facing upward when inserting discs. For more information, see “Using the Optical Drive“ on page 28.

to view and share digital photos, music, videos, and documents.

9-in-1 Media Card Reader — Provides a fast and convenient way

eSATA/USB combo connector with USB PowerShare — Connects to

eSATA compatible storage devices (such as external hard drives or optical drives) or USB devices (such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive,

or MP3 player). e USB Powershare feature allows you to charge USB devices when the

computer is powered on/o or in sleep state.

NOTE: Certain USB devices may not charge when the computer is powered

o or in sleep state. In such cases, turn on the computer to charge the

device.

NOTE: You can enable or disable the option of charging the USB devices when

the computer is powered o or in sleep mode through the BIOS settings.

NOTE: If you turn o your computer while charging a USB device, the device

stops charging. To continue charging, disconnect the USB device and connect it again.

NOTE: e USB PowerShare is automatically shut o when only 10% of the

total battery life remains.

HDMI-input connector — Connects to the HDMI‑output connector on

your video device such as a DVD player, camcorder, or gaming device.

NOTE: e HDMI-input connector works only when the computer is on.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

Back View Features

AC adapter connector — Connects to the AC adapter to power the

computer and charge the battery.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

Display Features

132

1 Left digital-array microphone — Combines with the right digital‑array

microphone to provide high quality sound for video chatting and voice recording.

2 Camera activity indicator — Indicates if the camera is on or o. A solid

white light indicates camera activity.

3 Camera

— Built‑in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat.

4 Right digital-array microphone — Combines with the left digital‑array

microphone to provide high quality sound for video chatting and voice recording.

5 Display — Your display can vary based on selections you made when

purchasing your computer.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

Computer Base and Keyboard Features

1 Status lights (3) — Indicate if the Caps Lock, Number Lock, or Scroll Lock

lights are turned on or o.

2 Macro keys — You can assign keystrokes, predened functions, macros,

or shortcuts for your games using the TactX Macro Key Controls option available in the Alienware Command Center. For more information, see “Alienware Command Center” on page 26.

3 Backlit keyboard — Illuminates to provide visibility in low lit or dark

environments. You can customize the colors and eects of the backlight

using the AlienFX software available in the Alienware Command Center. For more information on customizing the backlight, see “Alienware Command Center” on page 26.

4 Touch pad — Provides the functionality of a mouse to move the cursor,

drag or move selected items, and left‑click by tapping the surface.

5 Touch pad buttons (2) — Provide left- and right-click functions like those

on a mouse.

6 Media control keys (9) — Press the keys to perform the associated action.

For more information, see “Media Control Keys” on page 21.

7 Power button — Turns the computer on or o when pressed. For more

information, see “Power Button” on page 22.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

Status Lights

Media Control Keys

e three status lights are located at the top-left side of the keyboard. For the exact location, see “Computer Base and Keyboard Features” on page 20.

Caps Lock Light

Turns on when the keyboard is in Caps Lock mode. In this mode, all characters you type are in uppercase.

Number Lock Light

Turns on when the keyboard is in Num Lock mode. In this mode, the embedded numeric keypads can be used.

Scroll Lock Light

Turns on when the scroll lock option is on.

e media control keys are located at the top-right side of the keyboard. For the exact location, see “Computer Base and Keyboard Features” on page 20. To activate, press the desired keys. e keys will illuminate temporarily to conrm

your selection.

Decrease volume Fast Forward or Play next

track

Increase volume Eject

Mute the sound Wireless Control - Switch

wireless communications on/o

Rewind or Play previous track (for more information, see

“Using the Wireless Control” on page 28)

Play or Pause Alienware Command Center

(for more information, see “Alienware Command Center” on page 26)

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

Power Button

You can program this button to perform actions like shutting down the operating system or entering the standby mode. For details on how to program this button, see Power Options in the control panel of Microsoft Windows operating system.

e power button is located in the center of the hinge cover. For the exact location, see “Computer Base and Keyboard Features” on page 20.

e color of the AlienHead rim indicates the power status. e color indicating

the power status can be changed using the AlienFX software.

On AC adapter:

Blue or custom AC‑color e battery is fully charged.

Blue or custom AC‑color fading into amber or custom battery‑ color

Blue or custom AC‑color fading into black

On battery:

Amber or custom battery‑color e battery is fully charged.

Amber or custom battery‑color fading into black

Blinking Amber or custom battery‑color

For more details on standby and hibernate mode, see Power Options in the control panel of your Microsoft Windows operating system.

e computer is turned o or

on and the battery is charging.

e computer is in standby

mode.

e computer is in standby

mode.

e battery charge is low.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

Function Keys

NOTE: Depending on the conguration of the laptop you purchased, some

of the function keys may have no associated tasks.

e <Fn> key is located at the bottom-left corner of the keyboard, and is used together with other keys to activate certain functions. Hold down the <Fn> key

along with the key described below:

FI – Suspend Mode

Press <Fn><F1> to enable the suspend mode. In the suspend mode, the display and selected devices will switch o for less energy

consumption.

F2 — Check Battery Status

Press <Fn><F2> to display the Battery Status Meter.

F7 – Switchable Graphics Toggle

Press <Fn><F7> to switch between integrated and discrete graphics

option.

F8 – External HDMI Input Toggle

Press <Fn><F8> to switch between external HDMI input source.

F9 – Camera on/o

Press <Fn><F9> to switch o or switch on the camera.

F10 – Microsoft Mobility Center on/o

Press <Fn><F10> to launch or close the Microsoft Mobility Center

application.

F11 – AlienFX on/o

Press <Fn><F11> to enable or disable the AlienFX illumination.

F3 – Mute on/o

Press <Fn><F3> to enable or disable the mute function.

F4 – Increase Display Brightness

Press <Fn><F4> to increase the brightness of the display.

F5 – Decrease Display Brightness

Press <Fn><F5> to decrease the brightness of the display.

F6 – Display Mode

Press <Fn><F6> to toggle between the external displays connected.

F12 – Touch Pad on/o

Press <Fn><F12> to enable or disable the touch pad function and

the illumination around the touch pad. When the touch pad function

is switched o, the touch pad can still work temporarily for three to ve seconds while the computer reboots into the Windows operating

system, or resumes from standby or hibernate mode.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Alienware Command Center

e Alienware Command Center gives you access to Alienware’s exclusive

software and is a continuously upgradable control panel. As Alienware releases new programs, they download directly into the Command Center allowing you to build a library of system management, optimization, and customization tools. You can access Alienware Command Center by pressing on the media control keys. See “Media Control Keys” on page 21.

Connection Type Computer Cable Display

VGA‑to‑VGA (VGA cable)

HDMI‑to‑HDMI (HDMI cable)

Connecting External Displays

If you want to enjoy your computing environment on a bigger scale visually, or extend your desktop area, you can connect an external display such as a standalone monitor, an LCD TV, or a projector.

Connecting a Display

Use the appropriate cable based on the connectors available on your computer and display. Refer to the following table to identify the connectors on your computer and display.

NOTE: When connecting to a single display, connect the display to ONLY ONE of the connectors on your computer.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Mini‑

DisplayPortto-DisplayPort

(Mini‑

DisplayPortto-DisplayPort

adapter +

DisplayPort

Cable)

Mini‑

DisplayPort-

to‑DVI (Mini‑

DisplayPort-to-

DVI adapter + DVI cable)

NOTE: You can purchase the mini-DisplayPort-to-DisplayPort and mini-DisplayPort-to-DVI adapters at dell.com.

Turn o your laptop.1. Turn o the display and disconnect it from the power supply. 2. Connect one end of the display cable to the VGA, mini-DisplayPort, or HDMI 3.

connector on your Alienware laptop. Connect the other end of the cable to the same connector on your display.

4. If necessary, connect one end of the power cable to the display’s power 5.

connector. Connect the other end of the power cable to a grounded three‑prong power 6.

strip or wall outlet. Turn on your laptop, and then turn on your display.7.

Multiple Displaysd. — Select from the below options:

Duplicate these displays

•

Extend these displays• Show desktop on display 1• Show desktop on display 2•

Click 3. Apply to apply your changes and then click OK to exit.

Using Removable Media and Cards

Observe the safety measures below:

Extending the Desktop

With the external display connected, right‑click on the desktop and click 1.

Screen resolution or press <Fn><F1>.

Customize the following options:

Displaya. — Select the display you would like to manage. Resolutionb. — Select the suitable display resolution. Orientationc. — Select Potrait or Landscape depending on your

display type.

When no ExpressCard or Media Card (SD/MMC/MS cards) is inserted into the ExpressCard or Media Card slot, ensure that the blank cards that shipped with

your laptop is inserted in the unused slot(s). e blank cards protect the unused

slots from dust and other particles. When inserting a blank card, ensure that the correct side is on the top (indicated by an arrow mark on some blank cards). Inserting a blank card upside down may damage your laptop.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Using the Optical Drive

Your laptop has a slot load optical drive. Depending on the conguration ordered, your laptop may have one of the following drive types. ese logos are used to

indicate each drive’s capabilities and media compatibility.

DVD±R/W Dual Layer Writer

DVD±R/W drive can read CD‑ROM, CD‑R, CD‑R/W, DVD, DVD+R/W, and DVD‑R/W media.

It can also record to CD‑R, CD‑RW, DVD+R/W, DVD‑R/W, and DVD+R Dual Layer (DL) media.

Using the Integrated Camera

Turning the Camera On and Oﬀ

Press the key combination <Fn><F9> to switch on or switch o the camera.

After switching on the camera, you need to activate its function through the Microsoft Windows operating system. In addition, you can also use Windows Movie Maker to create, edit, and share videos.

Using the Wireless Control

Blu‑ray Disc Reader/Writer

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Blu‑ray drive can read CD‑ROM, CD‑R, CD‑R/W, DVD, DVD+R/W, DVD‑R/W, DVD+R Dual Layer (DL), BD‑ROM, BD‑R, and BD‑RE media.

It can also record to CD‑R, CD‑R/W, DVD+R/W, DVD‑R/W, DVD+R Dual Layer (DL), BD‑R, and BD‑RE media.

You can quickly switch on or switch o the wireless radios (Bluetooth and WLAN)

using the wireless control . Gently pressing this control one time changes the state of the wireless radios.

Battery Pack

1 Battery Meter

Your laptop is equipped with a high‑energy rechargeable Lithium‑ion (Li‑ion)

battery pack. Battery life varies depending on your laptop conguration, model,

applications installed, power management settings, and features used. As with all batteries, the maximum capacity of this battery decreases with time and usage.

e battery-meter lights on the battery pack indicate the charge level of the

battery. When you press the battery meter once, the charge level lights illuminate.

Each of the ve lights represent approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge. For example, if four lights turn on, there is approximately 60 percent to 80 percent of battery charge remaining and if no lights turn on, there is no charge

remaining in the battery.

Power Management

Understanding Power Consumption

In order to fully utilize the power of your battery, it would be a good idea for you to spend some time acquiring a basic understanding of the power management concept from your operating system.

You can use the power options in your operating system to congure the power settings on your computer. e Microsoft Windows operating system installed on

your computer provides three default options:

Balanced — Oers full performance when you need it and saves power •

during periods of inactivity.

Power Saver — Saves power on your computer by reducing system

•

performance to maximize the life of the computer and by reducing the amount of energy consumed by your computer over its lifetime.

High Performance — Provides the highest level of system performance

•

on your computer by adapting processor speed to your activity and by maximizing system performance.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Customizing Your Power Settings

Click 1. Start → Control Panel. Click

2. All Control Panel Items. Double‑click the 3. Power Options icon.

Select a power plan from the options shown. To customize specic settings,

4. click Change plan settings next to the selected power plan.

Reducing Power Consumption

Although your laptop (together with the operating system) is capable of power conservation, there are measures you can take to reduce the power consumption:

Lower the intensity of the display backlight. A very bright screen translates

•

to higher power usage. Use the

• Go Dark option in the Alienware Command Center.

You can also create application proles for any application on your computer. is may be required for newly released games or applications that do not have a default application prole.

Changing the Application Proﬁle Settings

Right‑click on the desktop and select 1. NVIDIA Control Panel.

In the 2. NVIDIA Control Panel window, click 3D Settings to expand the selection (if not already expanded) and then click Manage 3D Settings.

In the 3. Program Settings tab, click Add and browse to select the

application’s executable le (.exe). Once added, you can change the

settings for that application.

To change the settings for a specic application, locate the application in the

Select a program to customize: list and make the desired changes.

NOTE: For more information on the NVIDIA control panel options and settings, click Help.

Free Fall Sensor

Free fall sensor protects your computer hard drive from possible damage, by detecting a free fall state caused by accidentally dropping the computer. When a free fall state is detected, the hard drive is placed in a safe state to protect against damage to the read/write head and possible data loss. Your hard drive returns to normal operation, when the free fall state is no longer detected.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Conﬁguring the BIOS

System Setup

e System Setup options allow you to:

Change the system conguration information after you add, change, or •

remove any hardware in your laptop. Set or change a user‑selectable option.• View the installed amount of memory or set the type of hard drive installed.•

Before you use System Setup, it is recommended that you write down the current System Setup information for future reference.

CAUTION: Do not change the settings in System Setup unless you are an expert computer user. Certain changes can cause your computer to work incorrectly.

Entering System Setup

Turn on (or restart) your laptop.1.

NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key on the keyboard is held down for extended periods of time. To avoid possible keyboard failure, press and

release <F2> in even intervals until the System Setup screen appears.

While the laptop is booting, press <F2> immediately before the operating

system logo appears to access the BIOS Setup Utility.

If an error occurs during POST (Power On Self Test), you may also enter the

BIOS Setup Utility by pressing <F2> when prompted.

NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue

to wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop, then shut down your laptop and try again.

System Setup Screens

e BIOS Setup Utility window displays current or changeable conguration information for your laptop. Information is divided into ve menus: Main,

Advanced, Security, Boot, and Exit.

Key functions appear at the bottom of the BIOS Setup Utility window and lists

keys and their functions within the active eld.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

System Setup Options

NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed in this section may not appear, or may not appear exactly as listed.

NOTE: For the updated system setup information, see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals.

Main Menu

System Time (hh:mm:ss)

System Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

Alienware

Service Tag

BIOS Version

EC Version

ME Version

CPU

Displays the system time.

Displays the system date.

Displays the model number of your computer.

Displays the service tag of your computer.

Displays the BIOS version.

Displays the EC rmware version.

Displays the Intel ME rmware version.

Displays the type of processor installed.

Main Menu

CPU Frequency

CPU L3 Cache

CPUID

Integrated Graphics

Discrete Graphics 1

Discrete Graphics 2

Total Memory

Memory Bank 0

Memory Bank 1

Memory Bank 2

Memory Bank 3

Displays the speed of the processor.

Displays the processor cache size.

Displays the ID of the processor.

Displays the integrated graphics.

Displays the primary discrete graphics.

Displays the secondary discrete graphics.

Displays the total memory available in your computer.

Displays the memory size installed in DIMM 0.

Displays the memory size installed in DIMM 1.

Displays the memory size installed in DIMM 2.

Displays the memory size installed in DIMM 3.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Advanced Menu

Intel SpeedStep

Virtualization

USB Emulation

USB Wake Support

Allows you to enable or disable the Intel SpeedStep technology. Disabling this feature may improve performance, but will greatly reduce battery life.

Allows you to enable or disable the Intel Virtualization technology.

Allows you to enable or disable the USB emulation

feature. is feature denes how the BIOS, in the

absence of a USB‑aware operating system, handles USB

devices. USB emulation is always enabled during POST.

NOTE: You cannot boot from any type of USB device

(oppy, hard drive, or memory key) when this option

is disabled.

Allows you to enable USB devices to wake the computer from standby or to disable the USB wake support feature.

NOTE: If USB Powershare is enabled, a device connected to the USB Powershare connector may not

wake the computer.

Advanced Menu

USB Power Share

Integrated Network

High Denition

Audio

SD-Card Reader

CPU Turbo Mode

Allows you to charge USB devices when the computer is

turned o or in standby mode.

AC Only: Charge USB devices when connected to AC

•

adapter only. AC and Battery: Charge USB devices when

•

connected to AC adapter and when the computer is running on battery.

Disabled: Disables USB PowerShare.

•

Allows you to enable or disable the on‑board LAN controller.

Disabled: Internal LAN is disabled and is not visible

•

to the operating system. Enabled: Internal LAN is enabled.

•

Allows you to enable or disable the internal high

denition audio device.

Disabled: e internal audio device is disabled and

•

is not visible to the operating system.

Enabled: e internal audio device is enabled.

•

Allows you to enable or disable the internal SD card reader.

Allows you to enable or disable the Intel CPU turbo

mode performance option.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Advanced Menu

Performance Options

SATA Operation

SATA HARD DRIVE 1

SATA HARD DRIVE 2

Adapter Warnings

Charger Behavior

Primary Display

Allows you to congure elds in the Performance

Options sub‑menu (for more information, see

“Advanced Menu – Performance Options“ on page 34).

Allows you to congure the operating mode of the

integrated SATA hard drive controller.

AHCI: SATA is congured for AHCI mode.

• RAID: SATA is congured for RAID mode.•

Displays the installed primary SATA hard drive model.

Displays the installed secondary SATA hard drive model.

Allows you to choose if the computer should display warning messages when you use AC adapters that are not supported by your computer.

Disabled: BIOS will not detect unsupported AC

•

adapters and will not display any message to screen.

Enabled : BIOS will detect unsupported AC adapters

•

and display an error to screen.

Allows you to enable or disable battery charging.

Allows you to choose a primary display.

Advanced Menu – Performance Options

Overclocking Feature

Allows you to enable or disable the global overclocking feature.

Disabled: e overclocking feature is disabled.

• Enabled: Displays additional overclocking options.•

Non-Turbo Flex Support

Flex Ratio Override

Extreme Edition

Allows you to modify the CPU ex ratio with Turbo Mode

disabled.

Appears when Non‑Turbo Flex is enabled and allows

you to specify the ex ratio for all CPU cores.

Allows Extreme Edition CPUs to adjust the ex ratio in

a Turbo Mode environment that allows each individual

core ratio to be modied.

Extreme Edition Core Ratio

Allows you to modify the ex ratio of individual cores physically present in the CPU.

Limits

Memory Override Support

Allows you to enable or disable the memory override option support.

Disabled: e memory override support is disabled.

•

Enabled: Displays additional memory override • support options.

Memory

Allows you to modify memory voltage.

Voltage

Memory

Allows you to modify memory frequency.

Frequency

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Advanced Menu – Performance Options

DIMM Prole

Allows you to select dierent XMP options.

(XMP)

Override Turbo

Allows you to override CPU Turbo Mode settings.

Settings

Long Duration PWR Limit

Allows you to specify the Turbo Mode power limit 1 in Watts.

e value may vary from 0 to the fused value. A value of 0 programs this value to the fused limit. You cannot

specify a value greater than the fused limit.

Long Duration

Power Limit 1 time value in seconds.

Time Window

Indicates the time window over which TDP value should be maintained. A value of 0 programs this value to the

fused limit.

Short Duration PWR Limit

Short

Allows you to enable or disable the Short Duration Power

Limit.

Turbo Mode Power Limit 2 value in Watts.

Duration PWR Limit

A value of 0 programs this value to 1.25 x TDP.

Wireless Menu

Bluetooth

Wireless Network

DMC

Wireless Switch/Hotkey

Security Menu

Supervisor Password

User Password

Allows you to enable or disable the internal Bluetooth device.

Disabled: e internal Bluetooth device is disabled

•

and is not visible to the operating system.

Enabled: e internal Bluetooth device is enabled.

•

Allows you to enable or disable the internal wireless device.

Disabled: e internal wireless device is disabled

•

and is not visible to the operating system.

Enabled: e internal wireless device is enabled.

•

Allows you to enable or disable the internal DMC device.

Allows you to choose which wireless devices are controlled by the wireless switch/hotkey.

Displays if the supervisor password is clear or set.

Displays if the user password is clear or set.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Security Menu

Set Service Tag

Displays the service tag of the computer when the service tag is present.

Displays a eld to input the service tag manually when

the service tag is absent.

Set Supervisor Password

Allows you to set the supervisor password. e

supervisor password controls access to the system setup utility.

Set User Password

Computrace

Allows you to set the user password. e user password

controls access to the computer at boot.

Allows you to enable or disable Computrace security feature.

Boot Menu

Use the up or down arrow keys to change the boot device priority. You can choose from:

Hard Drive

•

USB Storage • CD/DVD/BD• Removal Devices• Network•

Exit Menu

Exit Saving Changes

Save Change Without Exit

Exit Discarding Changes

Load Optimal Defaults

Discard Changes

Allows you to exit System Setup and save your changes to CMOS.

Allows you remain in System Setup and save your changes to CMOS.

Allows you to exit System Setup and load previous values from CMOS for all Setup items.

Allows you to load default values for all Setup items.

Allows you to load previous values from CMOS for all Setup items.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL

OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

Before You Begin

Turning Oﬀ Your Computer

is section provides procedures for removing and installing the components in

your laptop. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist:

You have performed the steps in “Turning O Your Computer” and “Before •

Working Inside Your Computer” in this section. You have read the safety information that shipped with your computer.

•

A component can be replaced or—if purchased separately—installed by • performing the removal procedure in reverse order.

CAUTION: To avoid losing data, save and close all open les and exit all open programs before you turn o your laptop.

Save and close all open les and exit all open programs. 1. Click 2. Start → Shut Down.

e laptop turns o after the operating system shutdown process nishes. Ensure that the computer is turned o. If your computer did not

automatically turn o when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button until the computer turns o.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

Before Working Inside Your Computer

Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help to ensure your own personal safety.

WARNING: Before working inside your laptop, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.

CAUTION: Only a certied service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.

CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).

CAUTION: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its pull-tab, not on the cable itself. Some cables have connectors with locking tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.

CAUTION: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer.

Ensure that the work surface is at and clean to prevent the computer cover 1. from being scratched.

Turn o your computer (see “Turning O Your Computer” on page

2. 38).

CAUTION: To disconnect a network cable, rst unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug the cable from the network device.

Disconnect all telephone or network cables from the laptop.

3. Press and eject any installed cards from the ExpressCard slot and the Media 4.

Card slot. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical

outlets.

CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove the battery from the battery bay before you service the laptop.

Remove the battery from the battery bay (see “Replacing the Battery Pack”

6. on page 40).

Press the power button to ground the system board.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

Replacing the Battery Pack

is battery pack can easily be removed and replaced. Ensure that the laptop is

properly shut down before changing the battery pack.

CAUTION: To avoid damage to the laptop, use only the battery designed for this particular Alienware laptop. Do not use batteries designed for other Alienware or Dell laptops.

To remove the battery pack:

Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 1. 38. Shut down the laptop and turn it over.2.

Slide the battery latch to the unlock position as shown.3.

e battery pack pops up.

Remove the battery pack.

To replace the battery pack, perform the removal steps in reverse order.

1 battery pack 2 battery latch

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

Upgrading or Replacing Memory

Removing the Memory Module(s)

Your laptop is equipped with a congurable memory unit. e industry standard JEDEC PC3-12800 (DDR3-1600) SODIMM memory module connectors are

available for memory upgrade.

NOTE: If you purchased a dual‑core processor, your computer supports only memory module connectors DIMM A and DIMM B.

NOTE: e table below illustrates one possible way the system memory can be congured. You can also congure the system memory by

installing memory modules in connectors DIMM C and DIMM D.

Memory

connector

DIMM A

2 GB 2 GB — — 4 GB

2 GB 4 GB — — 6 GB

4 GB 4 GB — — 8 GB

8 GB 8 GB — — 16 GB

8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 32 GB

Memory

connector

DIMM B

Memory

connector

DIMM C

Memory

connector

DIMM D

Total

memory

NOTE: Your computer supports up to four memory module connectors.

You can access connectors DIMM A and DIMM B by removing the compartment door at the bottom of your computer. To upgrade memory module(s) in connectors DIMM C and DIMM D, see the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals.

Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 1. 38.

Remove the battery (see “Replacing the Battery Pack” on page

2. 40). Remove the four screws that secure the compartment door to the

3. computer base.

Slide the compartment door towards the rear of the computer, lift it up, 4. and then remove it from the computer.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

1 screws (4) 2 compartment door

Use your ngertips to carefully spread apart the memory-module

connector’s spring locks until the memory module pops up. Remove the memory module.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

1 memory module 4 notch

2 spring locks (2) 5 memory-module connector

3 tab

To replace the memory modules, perform the removal steps in reverse order. While inserting the memory module into the connector align the notch on the memory module with the tab on the memory module connector.

NOTE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the lower connector before you install a memory module in the upper connector.

NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot.

Upgrading or Replacing the Hard Drive(s)

Your laptop is equipped with two hard drives.

Removing the Hard Drive(s)

Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 1. 38.

Remove the battery pack (see “Replacing the Battery Pack“ on page

2. 40). Remove the four screws that secure the compartment door to the

3. computer base.

Slide the compartment door towards the rear of the computer, lift it up, 4. and remove it from the computer.

1 screws (4) 2 compartment door

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

Release the connector latch and disconnect the hard‑drive cable from the 5.

connector on the system board. Loosen the four captive screws that secure the hard‑drive assembly.6. Using the pull tab, lift the hard‑drive assembly out of the computer base.7.

Disconnect the interposer from the hard drives.

1 hard-drive assembly 3 connector latch

2 captive screws (4) 4 hard-drive cable

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

1 primary hard drive (HDD0) 3 secondary hard drive (HDD1)

2 hard-drive bracket 4 interposer

Remove the four screws that secure the primary hard drive (HDD0) and lift 9.

the hard drive out of the hard‑drive bracket. Remove the four screws that secure the secondary hard drive (HDD1) and 10.

slide the hard drive out of the hard‑drive bracket.

1 screws (8) 3 secondary hard drive (HDD1)

2 primary hard drive (HDD0)

To replace the hard drive(s), perform the removal steps in reverse order.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

Basic Hints and Tips

Backup and General Maintenance

Computer does not power on: Is your AC adapter cable securely connected • to a working electrical outlet? If connected to a power strip, ensure that the strip is actually working.

Connections: Check all the cables to ensure that there are no loose

•

connections anywhere.

Power Savings: Ensure that your computer is not in hibernate or standby

• mode by pressing the power button for less than 4 seconds. e power

status light will fade from blue to black while in standby mode; in hibernate

mode it will be o.

Brightness: Check and adjust the brightness of the display by pressing the

• key combinations <Fn><F4> or <Fn><F5>.

Display Choice: Press the key combination <Fn><F6> to ensure that the

•

computer is not set to “External Only” display. Use only the AC adapter that shipped with your laptop.

•

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

Always back up your important data on a regular basis and keep copies of • your operating system and software safe. Do not forget to note the serial numbers if you are storing them outside of their original cases ‑ for example, in a CD wallet.

Run maintenance programs as often as you can. You may schedule these

•

programs to run at times when you are not using your computer. You can use those provided with your operating system, or buy more powerful, dedicated programs to do so.

Write down your passwords and keep them safe (away from your computer).

• is is especially important if you choose to password-protect your

computer’s BIOS and operating system. Document vital settings such as network, dialup, mail and Internet settings.

•

When troubleshooting your computer, remember the following safety guidelines:

Before touching any of the computer’s internal components, touch an • unpainted portion of the chassis. Doing so will safely discharge any static electricity, which could damage your computer.

Turn o your computer and any connected peripherals.

• Disconnect any peripherals from your computer. •

ings to check:

Ensure that the AC adapter cable is properly connected between your • computer and a grounded, three‑prong power outlet. Ensure that the power outlet is working.

Ensure the UPS or power strip is turned on (if applicable).

•

If your peripheral devices (for example keyboard, mouse, printer, and so on) • are not working, ensure that all connections are secure.

If any computer components were added or removed before the problem

•

began, check to see if you performed the installation or removal procedures properly.

If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact error

•

message prior to calling Alienware Technical Support to aid in diagnosing and resolving your issue.

If an error occurs in a specic program, see the program’s documentation.

•

Software Diagnostic Tools

Enhanced Pre-Boot System Assessment

e computer runs the Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment (ePSA), a series

of initial tests of your system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, and so on.

To invoke ePSA:

Turn on (or restart) your computer.

1. When the Alienware logo appears, press <F12> immediately.2.

NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop; then, shut down your computer and try again.

Select 3. Diagnostics from the menu and press <Enter>. Follow the instructions on the screen. If a failure is detected, the diagnostics

4. stop and the computer beeps.

To stop the assessment and restart the computer, press <n>.

•

To continue to the next test, press <y>.• To retest the component that failed, press <r>.•

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

If failures are detected during ePSA, write down the error code(s) and contact Alienware (for more information, see “Contacting Alienware“ on page 70).

Answers to Common Problems

If the ePSA completes successfully, the following message appears “Do you want to run the remaining memory tests? This will take about 30 minutes or more. Do you want to continue? (Recommended).”

If you are experiencing memory issues, press <y>, else press <n>. e following

message appears: “Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment complete.”

Press <o> to reboot your computer.

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

Computer Startup Problems

The computer fails the POST

e Power On Self Test (POST) ensures that the computer meets all the necessary

system requirements and that all hardware is working properly before starting

the remainder of the boot process. If the computer passes the POST, the computer will continue to start normally. However, if the computer fails the POST, the

computer will generate a single beep to indicate a general failure and an error message will be displayed. For assistance, contact Alienware Technical Support (see “Contacting Alienware” on page 70).

The computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears

CAUTION: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.

If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving

your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 6 seconds to turn o,

your computer, and then restart it.

NOTE: e chkdsk program may run when you restart the computer.

Follow the instructions on the screen.

Software Problems

CHAPTER 6: SYSTEM RECOVERY

AlienRespawn

AlienRespawn Basic

CAUTION: Using AlienRespawn permanently removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer. Create backup media of applications you need to install on your computer before using AlienRespawn. Use AlienRespawn only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.

CAUTION: Although AlienRespawn is designed to preserve the data les on your computer, it is recommended that you backup your data les before using AlienRespawn.

You can use AlienRespawn to restore your hard drive to the operating state it was

in when you purchased your computer, while preserving the data les.

AlienRespawn allows you to backup and restore your computer to an earlier operating state.

To restore the factory image while preserving the data les:

Turn o your computer.

1. Disconnect all the devices connected to the computer (such as USB drive, 2.

printer, and so on) and remove any recently added internal hardware.

NOTE: Do not disconnect the AC adapter cable.

Turn on your computer.

3. When the Alienware logo appears, press <F8> several times to access the 4.

Advanced Boot Options window.

NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue

to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop; then, shut down your computer and try again.

Select

5. Repair Your Computer. Select

6. AlienRespawn and Emergency Backup from the System Recovery

Options menu and follow the instructions on the screen.

NOTE: e restoration process may take an hour or more depending on

the size of the data to be restored.

NOTE: For more information on AlienRespawn, see knowledge base article 353560 at support.dell.com.

CHAPTER 6: SYSTEM RECOVERY

Upgrading to AlienRespawn Professional

Dell DataSafe Online Backup (Optional)

AlienRespawn provides additional features that allow you to:

Backup and restore your computer based on le types

• Backup les to a local storage device• Schedule automated backups•

To upgrade to AlienRespawn Professional:

Double‑click the AlienRespawn icon 1. in the notication area of your desktop.

Click

2. Upgrade Now! Follow the instructions on the screen.

NOTE: Dell DataSafe Online is supported only on Windows operating systems.

NOTE: A broadband connection is recommended for fast upload or download speeds.

Dell DataSafe Online is an automated backup and recovery service that helps

protect your data and other important les from catastrophic incidents like theft, re, or natural disasters. You can access the service on your computer using a

password‑protected account.

For more information, go to delldatasafe.com.

To schedule backups:

Double‑click the Dell DataSafe Online icon 1. on the taskbar. Follow the instructions that appear on the screen.2.

CHAPTER 6: SYSTEM RECOVERY

My Dell Downloads

NOTE: My Dell Downloads may not be available in all regions.

Some of the software pre‑installed on your new Alienware computer do not

include a backup media. is software is available on the My Dell Downloads

website. From this website, you can download available software for reinstallation or create your own backup media.

To register and use My Dell Downloads:

Go to 1. DownloadStore.dell.com/media. Follow the instructions on the screen to register and download the software.

2. Reinstall the software or create a backup media for future use.3.

CHAPTER 6: SYSTEM RECOVERY

CHAPTER 7: BASIC SPECIFICATIONS

CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS

Computer Model

Alienware M18x

Dimensions

Height

Front 53.0 mm (2.09 inches)

Back 54.20 mm (2.13 inches)

Width 436.0 mm (17.17 inches)

Depth 322.0 mm (12.68 inches)

Weight with 12‑cell

5.41 kg (11.93 lb)

battery and optical drive (starting at)

NOTE: e weight of your laptop varies depending on the conguration ordered and

the manufacturing variability.

Computer Information

Processor Intel Core i7 Extreme Edition •

(second generation)

Intel Core i7 and i5 (second generation)•

L2 cache 256 KB

L3 cache up to 8 MB

Bus clock 100 MHz

System chipset Mobile Intel HM67 Express Chipset

SDRAM bus width

one or two 64‑bit channels of DDR3 memory up

to 1600 MHz

Processor address bus

32 bits

width

Processor data width 64 bits

BIOS SPI Flash Memory 32 Mbit

Graphics bus PCIe x16 Gen2

CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS

Memory

Connectors four internally accessible DDR3 using JEDEC

SODIMM sockets

Capacities 2 GB, 4 GB, and 8 GB

Memory type up to 1600 MHz unbuered non-ECC

• dual-channel DDR3 conguration

Extreme Memory Proles (XMP) 1600 •

and 1866

Memory congurations

4 GB, 6 GB, 8 GB, 16 GB, and 32 GB

possible

Ports and Connectors

Network adapter one RJ45 connector

USB two 4-pin USB 2.0 compliant connectors

• two 4-pin USB 3.0 compliant connectors•

eSATA/USB combo one 7-pin/4-pin eSATA/USB 2.0-compliant

combo connector with PowerShare

HDMI input and output one 19-pin connector

Mini-DisplayPort one 20-pin connector

VGA one 15-hole connector

Ports and Connectors

Audio two stereo headphones/speakers connector•

one microphone‑in connector•

S/PDIF one headphone/S/PDIF combo connector

Media Card Reader one 9-in-1 slot

ExpressCard one ExpressCard/54 connector

Communications

Network adapter 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet LAN on

system board

Wireless one half Mini‑Card slot•

Bluetooth; Wireless Display (optional); • WirelessHD (optional)

Video

Video controller

Integrated Intel HD Graphics 3000

Discrete NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460M

• AMD Radeon HD 6970M•

CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS

Video

Video memory

Integrated 512 MB dedicated video memory

(for total system memory greater than 4 GB)

Discrete 1.5 GB GDDR5 for NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460M

•

2.0 GB GDDR5 for AMD Radeon HD 6970M•

External display support HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, VGA, WiDi (optional),

and WirelessHD (optional)

Audio

Type 2.1 channel internal speaker and subwoofer

Controller IDT 92HD73C codec

Speaker dual 4‑ohms speakers in both the left and right

speaker assembly

Subwoofer

mono 4‑ohms subwoofer

Internal speaker amplier MAXIM MAX9736A

15W stereo/ 30W mono

Audio

Output power

Speaker

Subwoofer

up to 5 W average per channel; up to 2.5 W

average total power

up to 10 W average per channel; up to 5 W

average total power

Internal microphone

dual digital microphone in camera assembly

support

Volume controls program menus and keyboard media function

keys

Hard-Drive Storage

Number of storage drives two

Hard drive one 2.5 inch SATA 2.0 (3Gb/s) or SATA 3.0

•

(6Gb/s) hard drives one solid‑state drive•

CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS

Media Card Reader

Cards supported Secure Digital (SD) memory card•

Secure Digital Input/Output (SDIO) card• Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC) •

card MultiMedia Card (MMC)

•

MultiMedia Card plus (MMC+)• Memory Stick•

Memory Stick PRO• xD-Picture Card (type - M and type - H)•

Hi Density‑SD (SDHD)• Hi Capacity‑SD (SDHC)•

Display

Type 18.4 inch FHD WLED TrueLife

Maximum resolution 1920 x 1080

Dimensions (active area)

Height 230.04 mm (9.06 inches)

Width 408.96 mm (16.10 inches)

Diagonal 469.22 mm (18.47 inches)

Refresh rate 60 Hz

Operating angle 0° (closed) to 135°

Pixel pitch 0.2550 mm

Controls brightness can be controlled through

keyboard shortcuts

Keyboard (Backlit)

Number of keys 82 (Korea, U.S., and Canada)•

83 (Europe)• 86 (Japan)•

Backlight color RGB; colors can be changed by invoking the

AlienFX application in the Alienware Command Center. For more information, see “Alienware Command Center” on page 26

CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS

Touch Pad

X/Y position resolution

240 cpi

(graphics table mode)

Size

Height 56.00 mm (2.20 inches) sensor-active area

Width 99.5 mm (3.92 inches) rectangle

Camera

Camera resolution 3.0 megapixel

Video resolution 2048 x 1536

Diagonal viewing angle 60°

Battery

12-cell “smart” lithium ion (96 Whr)

Height 30.2 mm (1.19 inches)

Width 174.0 mm (6.85 inches)

Depth 133.3 mm (5.25 inches)

Weight 0.65 kg maximum (1.43 lb)

Battery

Operating time battery operating time varies depending on

operating conditions and can be signicantly

reduced under certain power‑intensive conditions.

Life span (approximate) 300 discharge/charge cycles

Temperature range

Operating 0° to 50°C (32° to 122°F)

Storage –20° to 60°C (–4° to 140°F)

Coin‑cell battery CR-2032

AC Adapter

Type 240 W/330 W

Input voltage 100-240 VAC

Input current (maximum)

240 W 3.50 A

330 W 4.40 A

Input frequency 50 Hz-60 Hz

Voltage

CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS

12 VDC ‑ 16.8 VDC

AC Adapter

Output current

240 W 12.30 A (continuous)

330 W 16.92 A

Output power

240 W 240 W

330 W 330 W

Rated output voltage 19.50 VDC

Temperature range

Operating

240 W 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F)

330 W 10 °C to 35 °C (50 °F to 95 °F)

Storage –40 °C to 70 °C (–40 °F to 158 °F)

Connector types

DC connector 3-pin, 7.4 mm plug

AC connector 3-pin — C13 (150 W)

3-pin — C13 (240 W)

Computer Environment

Temperature range

Operating 0 °C to 35 °C (32 °F to 95 °F)

Storage –40 °C to 65 °C (–40 °F to 149 °F)

Relative humidity (maximum)

Operating 10% to 90% (non-condensing)

Storage 10% to 95% (non-condensing)

Maximum vibration (Using a random vibration spectrum that simulates user environment)

Operating 0.66 GRMS

Storage 1.3 GRMS

Maximum shock (Measured with hard drive in operating status and a 2‑ms half‑sine pulse for operating. Also measured with hard drive in head‑parked position and a 2‑ms half‑sine pulse for storage)

Operating 110 G

Storage 160 G

Altitude (maximum)

Operating –15.2 m to 3048 m (–50 ft to 10,000 ft)

Storage –15.2 m to 10,668 m (–50 ft to 35,000 ft)

Airborne contaminant level G1 as dened by ISA–71.04–1985

CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS

APPENDIX A

APPENDIX

GENERAL AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Computer Setup

Read all instructions marked on the product and in the documentation • before operating your computer.

Retain all safety and operating instructions.

•

Never use this product near water or a heat source.• Only set‑up the computer on a stable work surface.• Only operate the computer using the power source type indicated on the •

rating label.

Never block or cover any openings or fans in the computer case. ese are

•

required for ventilation. Never insert objects of any kind into the ventilation openings.

•

Ensure that your computer is properly grounded when in use.• Do not attempt to connect your computer into an outlet that is not properly •

grounded. If an extension cord is used with your computer, ensure that the total

•

ampere rating on the computer does not exceed the maximum rating on the extension cord.

Computer Use

Route the power cable and all cables away from where people might walk or • trip over them. Do not allow anything to rest on the power cable.

Do not spill anything on or into your computer.

•

To avoid electrical shock, always disconnect all power, modem and any other • cables from the wall outlets before handling the computer.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Warning

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) can cause damage to internal system components if precautions are not taken. ESD is caused by static electricity and the damage caused is usually permanent.

Computer technicians wear a special wrist‑strap that grounds them to the computer’s case to prevent ESD damage. You can reduce the chances of ESD damage by doing the following:

Turn o your computer’s power and wait several minutes before starting to

•

work. Ground yourself by touching the case of the computer.

•

Touch only those items which must be replaced. • Avoid walking around while replacing items inside the case, especially if you •

are on a carpet or during low temperature and low humidity. If you have to remove peripheral cards for any reason, place them on the

•

portion of the computer’s case that was removed. Do not touch the edge connectors at the bottom of the card that connect to the system board.

APPENDIX

General Safety Precautions

Mechanical Shock: Your computer should never be subjected to severe • mechanical shocks. Careless handling of your computer may cause damage. Mechanical Shock is not covered by the warranty.

Electrical Shock: If you do not open up your computer, there is nothing to

•

worry about. Your computer protects itself against most irregularities in the power source.

When You Should Contact Alienware

e battery, power cable or connector is damaged. •

Your computer has had liquid spilled into it. • Your computer was dropped or the case was damaged. • Normal operation of the computer does not occur when the operating •

instructions are followed.

Replacement Components or Accessories

It is only advised to use replacement parts or accessories recommended by Alienware.

APPENDIX

CONTACTING ALIENWARE

NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can nd

contact information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.

Dell provides several online and telephone‑based support and service options. Because availability varies by country and product, some services may not be available in your area.

To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues:

Visit

1. dell.com/contactdell.

Select your country or region.

2. Select the appropriate service or support link based on your need.3. Choose the method of contacting Dell that is convenient for you.4.

Websites

You can learn about Alienware products and services on the following websites:

dell.com• dell.com/ap• (Asian/Pacic countries only) dell.com/jp

• (Japan only)

euro.dell.com

• (Europe only)

dell.com/la

• (Latin American and Caribbean countries)

dell.ca

• (Canada only)

You can access Alienware Support through the following websites:

support.dell.com• support.jp.dell.com

• (Japan only)

support.euro.dell.com

• (Europe only)

support.la.dell.com

• (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico)

APPENDIX

Information for NOM, or Oﬃcial Mexican Standard (Only for Mexico)

e following information is provided in the device(s) described in this document in accordance with the requirements of the Ofcial Mexican Standard (NOM):

Importer:

Dell México S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - Flat 11° Col. Lomas Altas

11950 México, D.F.

Regulatory Model Number Voltage Frequency Electricity Consumption Output Voltage Output Intensity

P12E 100-240 VAC 50–60 Hz 3.50 A/4.40 A 19.50 VDC 12.30 A/16.92 A

For details, read the safety information that shipped with your computer.

For additional safety best practices information, see dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

APPENDIX

0P38V4A00

Printed in China.

Alienware M18X User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Before Setting Up Your Laptop

Press the Power ButtonConnect the AC Adapter

Connect the Network Cable (Optional) Set Up Microsoft Windows

Set Up WirelessHD (Optional)

Set Up Wireless Display (Optional)

Connect to the Internet (Optional)

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

Left View Features

Right View Features

Back View Features

Computer Base and Keyboard Features

Status Lights

Media Control Keys

Power Button

Function Keys

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Alienware Command Center

Connecting External Displays

Using Removable Media and Cards

Using the Optical Drive

Using the Integrated Camera

Using the Wireless Control

Battery Pack

Power Management

Free Fall Sensor

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

Before You Begin

Replacing the Battery Pack

Upgrading or Replacing Memory

Upgrading or Replacing the Hard Drive(s)

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

Basic Hints and Tips

Backup and General Maintenance

Software Diagnostic Tools

Answers to Common Problems

CHAPTER 6: SYSTEM RECOVERY

AlienRespawn

My Dell Downloads

CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS

APPENDIX

GENERAL AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

CONTACTING ALIENWARE