ALIENWARE Sentia 3450 Service Manual

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Notice

The company reserves the right to revise this publication or to change its contents without notice. Information contained herein is for reference only and does not constitute a commitment on the part of the manufacturer or any subsequent vendor. They assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this publication nor are they in anyway responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use (or misuse) of this publication. This publication and any accompanying software may not, in whole or in part, be reproduced, translated, trans¬mitted or reduced to any machine readable form without prior consent from the vendor, manufacturer or creators of this publication, except for copies kept by the user for backup purposes. Brand and product names mentioned in this publication may or may not be copyrights and/or registered trade¬marks of their respective companies. They are mentioned for identiﬁcation purposes only and are not intended as an endorsement of that product or its manufacturer. ©May 2006

Trademarks

This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. pat¬ents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home or other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineer¬ing or disassembly is prohibited. AMD Turion™ is a trademark of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

is a trademark of SRS Labs, Inc. WOW technology is incorporated under license

from SRS Labs, Inc.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Preface

FCC Statement (Federal Communications Commission)

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not in¬stalled and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Re orient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the service representative or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Use only shielded cables to connect I/O devices to this equipment. You are cautioned that changes or modiﬁcations not expressly approved by the manufacturer for compliance with the above standards could void your authority to operate the equipment.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Follow basic safety precautions, including those listed below, to reduce the risk of ﬁre, electric shock, and injury to persons when using any electrical equipment:

1. Do not use this product near water, for example near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet basement or near a swimming pool.

2. Avoid using this equipment with a telephone line (other than a cordless type) during an electrical storm. There may be a remote risk of electrical shock from lightning.

3. Do not use the telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.

4. Use only the power cord and batteries indicated in this manual. Do not dispose of batteries in a ﬁre. They may explode. Check with local codes for possible special disposal instructions.

5. This product is intended to be supplied by a Listed Power Unit (DC Output 20V, 11A minimum).

CAUTION

Always disconnect all telephone lines from the wall outlet before servicing or disassembling this equipment.

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, USE ONLY NO. 26 AWG OR LARGER,

TELECOMMUNICATION LINE CORD

This Computer’s Optical Device is a Laser Class I Product

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Preface

Instructions for Care and Operation

The notebook computer is quite rugged, but it can be damaged. To prevent this, follow these suggestions:

1. Don’t drop it, or expose it to shock. If the computer falls, the case and the components could be damaged.

2. Keep it dry, and don’t overheat it. Keep the computer and power supply away from any kind of heating ele¬ment. This is an electrical appliance. If water or any other liquid gets into it, the computer could be badly damaged.

3. Avoid interference. Keep the computer away from high capacity transformers, electric motors, and other strong magnetic ﬁelds. These can hinder proper performance and damage your data.

4. Follow the proper working procedures for the computer. Shut the computer down properly and don’t forget to save your work. Remember to periodically save your data as data may be lost if the battery is depleted.

• Do not expose it to excessive heat or direct sunlight.

• Do not leave it in a place where foreign matter or moisture may affect the system.

• Don’t use or store the computer in a humid environment.

• Do not place the computer on any surface that will block the vents.

• Do not turn off the power until you properly shut down all programs.

• Do not turn off any peripheral devices when the computer is on.

• Do not disassemble the computer by yourself.

• Perform routine maintenance on your computer.

5. Take care when using peripheral devices.

• Use only approved brands of peripherals.

• Unplug the power cord before attaching peripheral devices.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Power Safety

The computer has speciﬁc power requirements:

• Only use a power adapter approved for use with this computer.

• Your AC/DC adapter may be designed for international travel but it still requires a steady, uninterrupted power supply. If you are unsure of your local power speciﬁcations, consult your service representative or local power company.

• The power adapter may have either a 2-prong or a 3-prong grounded plug. The third prong is an important safety feature; do not defeat its purpose. If you do not have access to a compatible outlet, have a qualiﬁed electrician install one.

• When you want to unplug the power cord, be sure to disconnect it by the plug head, not by its wire.

• Make sure the socket and any extension cord(s) you use can support the total current load of all the connected devices.

• Before cleaning the computer, make sure it is disconnected from any external power sup¬plies (i.e. AC/DC adapter or car adapter).

• Do not plug in the power cord if you are wet.

• Do not use the power cord if it is broken.

• Do not place heavy objects on the power cord.

Power Safety Warning

Before you undertake any upgrade procedures, make sure that you have turned off the power, and disconnected all peripherals and cables (including telephone lines). It is advisable to also remove you battery in order to prevent accidentally turning the machine on.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Battery Precautions

• Only use batteries designed for this computer. The wrong battery type may explode, leak or damage the computer.

• Do not continue to use a battery that has been dropped, or that appears damaged (e.g. bent or twisted) in any way. Even if the computer continues to work with a damaged battery in place, it may cause circuit damage, which may possibly result in ﬁre.

• Recharge the batteries using the notebook’s system. Incorrect recharging may make the battery explode.

• Do not try to repair a battery pack. Refer any battery pack repair or replacement to your service representative or qual¬iﬁed service personnel.

• Keep children away from, and promptly dispose of a damaged battery. Always dispose of batteries carefully. Batteries may explode or leak if exposed to ﬁre, or improperly handled or discarded.

• Keep the battery away from metal appliances.

• Afﬁx tape to the battery contacts before disposing of the battery.

• Do not touch the battery contacts with your hands or metal objects.

Battery Disposal & Caution

The product that you have purchased contains a rechargeable battery. The battery is recyclable. At the end of its useful life, under various state and local laws, it may be illegal to dispose of this battery into the municipal waste stream. Check with your local solid waste ofﬁcials for details in your areafor recycling options or proper disposal.

Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Cleaning

Do not apply cleaner directly to the computer; use a soft clean cloth. Do not use volatile (petroleum distillates) or abrasive cleaners on any part of the computer.

Servicing

Do not attempt to service the computer yourself. Doing so may violate your warranty and expose you and the computer to electric shock. Refer all servicing to authorized service personnel. Unplug the computer from the power supply. Then refer servicing to qualiﬁed service personnel under any of the following conditions:

• When the power cord or AC/DC adapter is damaged or frayed.

• If the computer has been exposed to rain or other liquids.

• If the computer does not work normally when you follow the operating instructions.

• If the computer has been dropped or damaged (do not touch the poisonous liquid if the LCD panel breaks).

• If there is an unusual odor, heat or smoke coming from your computer.

Removal Warning

When removing any cover(s) and screw(s) for the purposes of device upgrade, remember to replace the cover(s) and screw(s) before turning the computer on.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Travel Considerations

Packing

As you get ready for your trip, run through this list to make sure the system is ready to go:

1. Check that the battery pack and any spares are fully charged.

2. Power off the computer and peripherals.

3. Close the display panel and make sure it’s latched.

4. Disconnect the AC/DC adapter and cables. Stow them in the carrying bag.

5. The AC/DC adapter uses voltages from 100 to 240 volts so you won’t need a second voltage adapter. However, check with your travel agent to see if you need any socket adapters.

6. Put the notebook in its carrying bag and secure it with the bag’s straps.

7. If you’re taking any peripherals (e.g. a printer, mouse or digital camera), pack them and those devices’ adapters and/or cables.

8. Anticipate customs - Some jurisdictions may have import restrictions or require proof of ownership for both hard¬ware and software. Make sure your documents are prepared.

Power Off Before Traveling

Make sure that your notebook is completely powered off before putting it into a travel bag (or any other such container). Putting a notebook which is powered on in a travel bag may cause the Vents/Fan Intakes to be blocked. To prevent your computer from overheating make sure nothing blocks the Vent/Fan Intakes while the computer is in use.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

On the Road

In addition to the general safety and maintenance suggestions in this preface, and Chapter 8: Troubleshooting, keep these points in mind:

Hand-carry the notebook - For security, don’t let it out of your sight. In some areas, computer theft is very common. Don’t check it with normal luggage. Baggage handlers may not be sufﬁciently careful. Avoid knock¬ing the computer against hard objects.

Beware of Electromagnetic ﬁelds - Devices such as metal detectors & X-ray machines can damage the com¬puter, hard disk, ﬂoppy disks, and other media. They may also destroy any stored data - Pass your computer and disks around the devices. Ask security ofﬁcials to hand-inspect them (you may be asked to turn it on). Note: Some airports also scan luggage with these devices.

Fly safely - Most airlines have regulations about the use of computers and other electronic devices in ﬂight. These restrictions are for your safety, follow them. If you stow the notebook in an overhead compartment, make sure it’s secure. Contents may shift and/or fall out when the compartment is opened.

Get power where you can - If an electrical outlet is available, use the AC/DC adapter and keep your battery(ies) charged.

Keep it dry - If you move quickly from a cold to a warm location, water vapor can condense inside the computer. Wait a few minutes before turning it on so that any moisture can evaporate.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Developing Good Work Habits

Developing good work habits is important if you need to work in front of the computer for long periods of time. Improper work habits can result in discomfort or serious injury from repetitive strain to your hands, wrists or other joints. The following are some tips to reduce the strain:

• Adjust the height of the chair and/or desk so that the keyboard is at or slightly below the level of your elbow. Keep your forearms, wrists, and hands in a relaxed position.

• Your knees should be slightly higher than your hips. Place your feet ﬂat on the ﬂoor or on a footrest if necessary.

• Use a chair with a back and adjust it to support your lower back comfortably.

• Sit straight so that your knees, hips and elbows form approximately 90-degree angles when you are working.

• Take periodic breaks if you are using the computer for long periods of time.

Remember to:

• Alter your posture frequently.

• Stretch and exercise your body several times a day.

• Take periodic breaks when you work at the computer for long periods of time. Frequent and short breaks are better than fewer and longer breaks.

Lighting

Proper lighting and comfortable display viewing angle can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue in your neck and shoulders.

• Position the display to avoid glare or reﬂections from overhead lighting or outside sources of light.

• Keep the display screen clean and set the brightness and contrast to levels that allow you to see the screen clearly.

• Position the display directly in front of you at a comfortable viewing distance.

• Adjust the display-viewing angle to ﬁnd the best position.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Contents

Notice, I

FCC Statement, II Instructions for Care and Operation, IV Power Safety, VI Battery Precautions, VII Cleaning, VIII Servicing, VIII

Travel Considerations, IX

Quick Start Guide

Overview, 1-1 Advanced Users, 1-2 Beginners and Not-So-Advanced Users, 1-2 Warning Boxes, 1-2 Not Included, 1-2 System Software, 1-3 System Startup, 1-4 Top View with LCD Panel Open, 1-5 LED Indicators, 1-6 Hot-Key Buttons & Keyboard, 1-7 Function Keys, 1-8 System Map: Front & Rear Views, 1-9 System Map: Left View, 1-10 System Map: Right View, 1-11 System Map: Bottom View, 1-12 Windows XP Start Menu & Control Panel, 1-13 Video Features, 1-14 Display & Graphics Properties, 1-15 Display Devices & Options, 1-16 Power Management Features, 1-17

Features & Components

Overview, 2-1 Hard Disk Drive, 2-2 Optical (CD/DVD) Device, 2-3 Loading Discs, 2-3 Handling CDs or DVDs, 2-4 DVD Regional Codes, 2-5 4-in-1 Card Reader, 2-6

ExpressCard Slot, 2-7

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Inserting and Removing ExpressCards, 2-10 Auto Mail Checker, 2-8 Application Hot-Key, 2-10 TouchPad and Buttons/Mouse, 2-11 Audio Features, 2-12 8 Channel Sound Support, 2-13 Adding a Printer, 2-14 USB Printer, 2-14 Parallel Printer, 2-14

Power Management Overview, 3-1

Advanced Conﬁguration and Power Interface, 3-1 The Power Sources, 3-2 AC/DC Adapter, 3-2 Battery, 3-2 Turning on the Computer, 3-3 Power Schemes, 3-4 System Power Options, 3-6 Hibernate Mode vs. Shutdown, 3-6 Stand by Mode vs. Hibernate Mode, 3-6 Stand by, 3-7 Hibernate, 3-7 Conﬁguring the Power Button, 3-8 Battery Information, 3-9 New Battery, 3-9 Battery Life, 3-9 Recharging the Battery with the AC/DC Adapter, 3-10 Proper handling of the Battery Pack, 3-11 Battery FAQ, 3-12

Drivers & Utilities

What to Install, 4-1 Module Driver Installation, 4-1 Service Packs, 4-3 Authorized Driver Message, 4-4 Version Conﬂict Message, 4-4 Updating/Reinstalling Individual Drivers, 4-4 Driver Installation, 4-5 New Hardware Found, 4-6 Service Pack Installation, 4-6 Manual Driver Installation, 4-6 Windows XP Driver Installation Procedure, 4-7 Chipset, 4-7 Video (VGA), 4-8 Audio, 4-7

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

LAN, 4-8 Modem, 4-8 TouchPad, 4-9 ExpressCard/Card Reader, 4-9 Hot-Key, 4-10 AutoMail, 4-10 Bluetooth, 4-11 PC Camera, 4-11 Wireless LAN, 4-11 Port Replicator, 4-11

BIOS Utilities

Overview, 5-1 The Power-On Self Test (POST), 5-2 Failing the POST, 5-3 Fatal Errors, 5-3 Non-Fatal Errors, 5-3 The Setup Program, 5-4 Entering Setup, 5-4 Setup Screens, 5-5 Main Menu, 5-6 System Time & Date (Main Menu), 5-6 IDE Channel 0 Master/SATA Port 1 (Main Menu), 5-7 System/Extended Memory: (Main Menu), 5-7 Advanced Menu, 5-8 Installed O/S: (Advanced Menu), 5-8 Reset Conﬁguration Data (Advanced Menu), 5-9 Legacy USB Support (Advanced Menu), 5-9 Boot-time Diagnostic Screen: (Advanced Menu), 5-9 POST Beep Sound (Advanced Menu), 5-9 Security Menu, 5-10 Set Supervisor Password (Security Menu), 5-10 Password on boot: (Security Menu), 5-10 Boot Menu, 5-12 Exit Menu, 5-13

Upgrading The Computer Overview, 6-1

When Not to Upgrade, 6-2 Removing the Battery, 6-3 Upgrading the Hard Disk Drive(s), 6-5 Upgrading the Optical (CD/DVD) Device(s), 6-7 Upgrading the System Memory (RAM), 6-8 Removing the Processor, 6-11

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Modules

Overview, 7-1 Bluetooth Module, 7-2 Bluetooth Driver Installation, 7-2 PC Camera Module, 7-4 PC Camera Driver Installation, 7-5 PC Camera Audio Setup, 7-6 BisonCap, 7-8 Eliminating Screen Flicker, 7-9 PCIe WLAN Module, 7-10 Intel WLAN Driver Installation, 7-11 Port Replicator, 7-12 Port Replicator Setup Instructions, 7-13 Port Replicator Serial (COM) Port Driver (WinXP), 7-13

Port Replicator Network (LAN) Driver (WinXP), 7-14

Troubleshooting

Overview, 8-1 Basic Hints and Tips, 8-2 Backup and General Maintenance, 8-3 Viruses, 8-4 Upgrading and Adding New Hardware/Software, 8-5 Power, 8-7 Display, 8-9 Boot Password, 8-10 Audio & CD Device, 8-11 Keyboard, 8-12 Operation, 8-13 Modules, 8-14

Interface (Ports & Jacks) Overview, A-1

Ports and Jacks, A-2 Built-In Microphone, A-2 Card Reader, A-2 DC-In Jack, A-2 External Monitor (VGA) Port, A-2 Headphone-Out Jack, A-2 Line-In Jack, A-2 Microphone-In Jack, A-3 Mini-IEEE 1394a Ports, A-3 RJ-11 Phone Jack, A-3 RJ-45 LAN Jack, A-3 Security Lock Slot, A-3 S/PDIF-Out Jack, A-4

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

S-Video-Out Jack, A-4 USB 2.0/1.1 Ports, A-4 Optional Port Replicator Ports and Jacks, A-5 DC-In Jack, A-5 External Monitor (VGA) Port, A-5 Parrallel Port, A-5 Serial Port, A-5 RJ-45 LAN Jack, A-5 USB 2.0/1.1 Ports, A-5

Intel Video Driver Controls, B-1

Intel Video Driver Installation, B-1 Dynamic Video Memory Technology, B-2 Intel Graphics Properties, B-3 Display Devices, B-5 Attaching Other Displays, B-6 Display Modes, B-7

TV Settings, B-11

Speciﬁcations

Processor, C-2 Core Logic, C-2 Memory, C-2 Security, C-2 BIOS, C-2 LCD,C-2 Video Adapter, C-3 Storage, C-3 Audio, C-3 Keyboard & Pointing Device, C-3 Interface, C-4 Card Reader, C-4 ExpressCard Slot, C-4 Communication, C-4 Power Management, C-4 Power, C-5 Environmental Spec, C-5 Physical Dimensions & Weight, C-5 Optional, C-5

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Chapter 1: Quick Start Guide Overview

This Quick Start Guide is a brief introduction to the basic features of your computer, to navigating around the computer and to getting your system started. The remainder of the manual covers the following:

• Chapter 2 A guide to using some of the main features of the computer e.g. the storage devices (hard disk, optical device, 4-in-1 card reader, ExpressCard/34/54), Auto Mail Program, TouchPad & Mouse, Audio & Printer.

• Chapter 3 The computer’s power saving options.

• Chapter 4 The installation of the drivers and utilities essential to the operation or improvement of some of the computer’s subsystems.

• Chapter 5 An outline of the computer’s built-in software or BIOS (Basic Input Output System).

• Chapter 6 Instructions for upgrading your computer.

• Chapter 7 A quick guide to the computer’s Wireless LAN, Bluetooth, PC Camera and Port Replicator modules (some of which may be optional depending on your purchase conﬁguration).

• Chapter 8 A troubleshooting guide.

• Appendix A Deﬁnitions of the interface, ports/jacks which allow your computer to communicate with external devices.

• Appendix B Information on the Intel Video driver controls.

• Appendix C The computer’s speciﬁcation.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Advanced Users

If you are an advanced user you may skip over most of this Quick Start Guide. However you may ﬁnd it useful to refer to “What to Install” on page 4 - 1, “BIOS Utilities” on page 5 - 1 and “Upgrading The Computer” on page 6 - 1 in the User’s Manual. You may also ﬁnd the notes marked with a (marker symbol) of interest to you.

Beginners and Not-So-Advanced Users

If you are new to computers (or do not have an advanced knowledge of them) then the information contained in this Quick Start Guide should be enough to get you up and running. Eventually you should try to look through all the documentation (more detailed descriptions of the functions, setup and system controls are covered in the remainder of the User’s Manual), but do not worry if you do not understand every¬thing the ﬁrst time. Keep this manual nearby and refer to it to learn as you go. You may ﬁnd it useful to refer to the notes marked with a (marker symbol)as indicated in the margin. For a more detailed description of any of the interface ports and jacks see “Interface (Ports & Jacks)” on page A - 1.

Warning Boxes

No matter what your level please pay careful attention to the warning and safety information indicated by the (ringing-bell symbol). Also please note the safety and handling instructions as indicated in the Preface.

Not Included

Operating Systems (e.g. Windows XP etc.) and applications (e.g. word processing, spreadsheet and database pro¬grams) have their own manuals, so please consult the appropriate manuals.

Drivers

If you are installing new system software, or are re-conﬁguring your computer for a different system, you will need to install the drivers listed in “Drivers & Utilities” on page 4 - 1. Drivers are programs which act as an interface between the computer and a hardware component e.g. a wireless network module. It is very important that you install the drivers in the order listed in Table 4 - 1, on page 4 - 6. You will be unable to use most advanced controls until the necessary drivers and utilities are properly

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

installed. If your system hasn’t been properly conﬁgured (your service representative may have already done that for you), refer to “What to Install” on page 4 - 1 for installation instructions.

Ports and Jacks

See “Notebook Ports and Jacks” on page A - 2 for a description of the interface (ports & jacks) which allow your computer to communicate with external devices, connect to the internet etc.

System Software

Your computer may already come with system software pre-installed. Where this is not the case, or where you are re-conﬁguring your computer for a different system, you will ﬁnd this manual refers to the Microsoft Windows XP (Home & Professional Editions) operating system.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

System Startup

Figure 1 - 1 - Computer with AC/DC Adapter Plugged-In

1. Remove all packing materials.

2. Place the computer on a stable surface.

3. Securely attach any peripherals you want to use with the notebook (e.g. keyboard and mouse) to their ports.

4. Attach the AC/DC adapter to the DC-In jack on the right of the computer, then plug the AC power cord into an

outlet, and connect the AC power cord to the AC/DC adapter (Note: If you have included the Port Replicator in

your purchase option see page 7 - 12).

5. Raise the lid/LCD to a comfortable viewing angle, and press the power button to turn the computer “on”.

6. Adjust the LCD panel to a comfortable viewing angle.

7. The LED Power & Communication indicators show the power and battery status of the computer, and give

notiﬁcation of e-mail received.

Shutdown

Please note that you should always shut your computer down by choosing the Shut Down/Turn Off Computer command from the Start menu in Windows. This will help

prevent hard disk or system problems.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

System Map: Top View with LCD Panel Open

Figure 1 - 2 - Top View with LCD Panel Open

1. Optional Built-In PC Camera

2. LCD

3. Speakers

4. LED Status Indicators

5. Hot-Key Buttons

6. Power Button

7. Keyboard

8. TouchPad and Buttons

9. LED Power & Communication Indicators

10. Built-In Microphone

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Wireless Device Operation Aboard Aircraft

The use of any portable electronic transmission devices aboard aircraft is usually prohibited. Make sure the module(s) are OFF if you are using the computer aboard aircraft. Use the key combinations to toggle power to the WLAN/Bluetooth modules, and check the status indicator icon to see if the modules are powered on or not (see Table 1 - 2, on page 1- 6/Table 1 - 4, on page 1 -8).

LED Indicators

The two sets of LED indicators (LED Status Indicators and LED Power & Communication Indicators) on the computer display helpful information about the current status of the computer.

Table 1 - 1 - LED Status Indicators

Icon Color Description

Blue

Blue Caps Lock Activated

Blue Scroll Lock Activated (to activate press Fn & ScrLk)

Number Lock Activated (to activate press Fn & NumLk)

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Table 1 - 2 - LED Power & Communication Indicators

Icon Color Description

Blue The Computer is On

Blinking Blue The Computer is in Stand by Mode

Amber

Blinking Amber The Battery Has Reached Critically Low Power Status

Blue The Battery is Fully Charged

Icon Color Description

Blinking Blue New Mail Has Arrived

Blue Hard Disk Activity

Blue The WLAN Module is Powered On

Blue The Bluetooth Module is Powered On

The AC/DC Adapter is Plugged In & the Computer is Powered Off

The AC/DC Adapter is Plugged In & the Battery is Charging

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Hot-Key Buttons & Keyboard

These buttons give instant access to the default Internet browser and e-mail program, and to a user-deﬁned application, with one quick button press. To use the “user deﬁned application Hot-Key Button”, you must install the driver (see “Hot-Key (WinXP)” on page 4 -10).

Table 1 - 3 -Hot-Key Buttons

Hot-Key Function

Activate the user speciﬁed application e.g. Microsoft Word or Excel

Activate the Default E-Mail Program

Activate the Default Internet Browser

See “Application Hot-Key” on page 2 - 10 for conﬁguration instructions. Note: The hot-key buttons may appear slightly different from those illustrated in Table 1 - 3, depending on your model/design.

The keyboard has an embedded numerical keypad for easy numeric data input, and features Function Keys to allow you to change operational features instantly (see Figure 1 - 3).

Figure 1 - 3 - Keyboard

Function Keys

NumLk &

Numeric Keypad

Fn Key

ScrLk Keys

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Function Keys

The keyboard has an embedded numerical keypad for easy numeric data input, and features Function Keys to allow you to change operational features instantly (see Figure 1 - 3).

Table 1 - 4 -Function Keys

Keys Description

Fn Function Key

Fn + 1 Touchpad Toggle

Fn + F3 Mute Toggle

Fn + F4 Sleep Toggle

Fn + F5 Decrease Audio Volume

Fn + F6 Increase Audio Volume

Fn + F7 Display Toggle

Fn + F8 Decrease LCD Brightness

Fn + F9 Increase LCD Brightness

Fn + F10 PC Camera Power Toggle

Fn + F11 Wireless Power Toggle

Fn + F12 Bluetooth Power Toggle

Fn + NumLk Number Lock Toggle

Fn + Scr Lk Scroll Lock Toggle

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Special Characters

Some software applications allow the number-keys to be used with Alt to produce special characters. These special characters can only be produced by using the numeric keypad. Regular number keys (in the upper row of the keyboard) will not work. Make sure that NumLk is on.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

System Map: Front & Rear Views

Figure 1 - 4 - Front & Rear Views

Front & Rear Views

1. LED Power & Communication Indicators

2. 4-in-1 Card Reader

3. External Monitor Port

4. S-Video-Out Jack

5. Security Lock Slot

6. Battery

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

4-in-1 Card Reader

The card reader allows you to use the most popular digital storage card formats: MMC (MultiMedia Card) / SD (Secure Digital) / MS (Memory Stick) / MS Pro (Memory Stick Pro)

System Map: Left View

Figure 1 - 4 Left View

1. RJ-45 LAN Jack

2. Vent/Fan Intake

3. 2 * USB 2.0 Ports

4. S/PDIF-Out Jack

5. Line-In Jack

6. Mini-IEEE 1394 Port

7. ExpressCard Slot

Figure 1 - 5 - Left View

4 5

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

4-in-1 Card Reader

The card reader allows you to use the most popular digital storage card formats: MMC (MultiMedia Card) / SD (Secure Digital) / MS (Memory Stick) / MS Pro (Memory Stick Pro)

CD Emergency Eject

If you need to manually eject a CD/DVD (e.g. due to an unexpected power interruption) you may push the end of a straightened paper clip into the emergency eject hole. Do not use a sharpened pencil or similar object that may break and becomelodged in the hole.

Alienware Sentia 3450 Technical Reference

Media Warning

Don’t try to remove a ﬂoppy disk/CD/DVD while the system is accessing it. This may cause the system to “crash”.

Changing DVD Regional Codes

Go to the Control Panel and double-click System > Hardware (tab), click Device Manager, then click the + next to DVD/CD-ROM drives. Double-click on the DVD-ROM

device to bring up the Properties dialogue box, and select the DVD Region (tab) to bring up the control panel to allow you to adjust the regional code (see “DVD Regional Codes” on pages 2-5).

DVD region detection is device dependent, not OS-dependent. You can select your module’s region code 5 times. The ﬁfth selection is permanent. This cannot be altered even if you change your operating system or you use the module in another computer.

+ 87 hidden pages

ALIENWARE Sentia 3450 Service Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual