Dell Alienware M14x User Manual

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ALIENWARE M14x 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.

This item incorporates copy protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights of Rovi Corporation. Reverse engineering and disassembly are prohibited.

__________________

The 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®, Centrino®, 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: P18G Regulatory type: P18G001

Rev. A00 December 2010

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP ................................................9

Before Setting Up Your Laptop ....................................................10

Connect the AC Adapter...........................................................12

Press the Power Button ...........................................................13

Connect the Network Cable (Optional) .............................................14

Set Up Microsoft Windows ........................................................15

Set Up Wireless Display (Optional).................................................16

Connect to the Internet (Optional).................................................19

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP ........................................23

Left View Features ................................................................24

Right View Features ............................................................. 28

Back View Features .............................................................. 29

Display Features................................................................. 30

Computer Base and Keyboard Features ........................................... 32

Power Button ................................................................... 34

Function Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP.................................................... 39

Alienware Command Center...................................................... 40

Connecting External Displays .................................................... 40

Using the Wireless Control ....................................................... 44

Battery Pack .................................................................... 45

Power Management ............................................................. 46

nVidia Optimus Technology ...................................................... 48

Free Fall Sensor ................................................................. 50

FastAccess Facial Recognition (Optional) ......................................... 50

Conguring the BIOS .............................................................51

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS...............................65

Before You Begin ................................................................ 66

Replacing the Battery Pack........................................................70

Upgrading or Replacing Memory...................................................74

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING .....................................................79

Basic Hints and Tips ............................................................. 80

Backup and General Maintenance .................................................81

Software Diagnostic Tools ....................................................... 83

Answers to Common Problems ................................................... 85

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 6: SYSTEM RECOVERY ..................................................... 93

AlienRespawn ................................................................... 94

My Dell Downloads .............................................................. 98

CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS ........................................................ 99

APPENDIX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

GENERAL AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ................................114

Contacting Alienware ............................................................117

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 machine have made certain that your

high‑performance system is properly optimized and performs to its fullest potential. We build

machines with one single unwavering purpose: Build It As If It Were Your Own. e technicians

will not rest until your new machine meets or exceeds our very demanding criteria!

We have tested your machine extensively in order to ensure that you enjoy the highest levels of performance. In addition to a standard burn‑in period, your system 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

please 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

Congratulations on the purchase of your Alienware M14x!

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, see the included invoice to verify that all items ordered are present and be sure to inspect all items for any physical damage that may have occurred during shipment. Report any missing components or damaged items to customer service within 5 days of receiving the shipment. Anything reported missing or damaged 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.

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Product Documentation and Media

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

Connect 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.

Press the Power Button

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Connect the Network Cable (Optional)

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

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 Wireless Display (Optional)

You can set up wireless display using the following optional wireless display technologies:

Intel Wireless Display — Designed for watching DVDs and streaming videos. • WirelessHD — Designed for graphic intensive applications such as high denition •

gaming.

NOTE: Wireless display may not be supported on all computers.

Hardware Requirements

Intel Wireless Display WirelessHD

Transmitter Intel Centrino wireless WLAN

card

Receiver Push2TV adapter for Intel

Wireless Display

SiBeam WirelessHD 60 GHz card

WirelessHD receiver kit

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Set Up WirelessHD (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 receiver kit. For instructions on setting up WirelessHD, see the document that shipped with your WirelessHD receiver kit.

NOTE: e WirelessHD receiver 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 receiver kit before you set up WirelessHD. For more information on setting up the WirelessHD receiver kit, see the document that shipped with the WirelessHD receiver 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 screen.4.

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

Set Up Intel Wireless Display (Optional)

NOTE: It is recommended to use WirelessHD instead of Intel Wireless display for graphic‑intensive applications as there may be a slight delay between the user input and on‑screen display.

To set up wireless display:

Turn on your computer.1. Ensure that wireless is enabled. For more information, see “Using the Wireless Control“ on 2.

page 44.

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

purchased separately.

Connect the wireless display adapter to the TV.3. Turn on the TV and the wireless display adapter.4.

Select the appropriate video source for your TV, such as HDMI1, HDMI2, or S-Video.5.

Click the Intel Wireless Display icon 6. on the desktop. e Intel Wireless Display window appears.

Select 7. Scan for available displays. Select your wireless display adapter from the 8. Detected wireless displays list. Enter the security code that appears on your TV.9.

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 provider for setup instructions.

To complete setting up your wired Internet connection, follow the instructions in “Setting Up Your Internet Connection” on page 21.

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

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.5.

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 4.

to complete the setup.

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

1 2 3 4

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

features, and get you up and running quickly.

Left View Features

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

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

HDMI connector — Connects to a TV for both multi‑channel digital audio and

video signals.

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

Mini-DisplayPort connector — Connects your computer to external DisplayPort

monitors and projectors.

USB 2.0 connector with PowerShare — Connects to 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 using 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.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

5 6 7 8

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

Microphone connector — Connects to a microphone or inputs signal for use with

audio programs.

NOTE: You can set up 5.1 channel speakers by using the three audio connectors available on your computer.

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

speaker or sound system.

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

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

SIM Card Reader — Connects your computer to the Internet. To access the

Internet you must be within the network of your cellular service provider.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

1 2 3 4

Right View Features

1 Optical drive — Plays or records only standard-size (12 cm) CDs and DVDs. Ensure that

the side with print or writing is facing upward when inserting discs.

NOTE: Do not use non‑standard‑size or shape discs (including mini‑CDs and mini‑DVDs) as you will damage the drive.

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

computer and USB devices.

Network connector — Connects your computer to a network or broadband device.

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.

Back View Features

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

AC adapter connector — Connects to an AC adapter to power the computer and

charge the battery.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

1 2 3 4 5

Display Features

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

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

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

indicates camera activity.

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

1 2

Computer Base and Keyboard Features

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

3 Power button — Turns the computer on or o when pressed. For more information, see

4 Backlit Keyboard — Illuminates to provide visibility in low lit or dark environments.

5 Touch pad — Provides the functionality of a mouse to move the cursor, drag or move

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

Wireless status light — Turns on if wireless radios are enabled. For more

information, see “Using the Wireless Control” on page 44.

Caps lock status light — Turns on when the keyboard is in Caps Lock mode. In

this mode, all characters you type appear in uppercase on the screen.

“Power Button” on page 34.

You can customize the colors and eects using the AlienFX software available in the

Alienware Command Center. For more information, see “Alienware Command Center” on page 40.

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

mouse.

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 32.

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

status can be changed using the AlienFX software.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

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 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 near 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:

F1 — Extend desktop

Press <Fn><F1> to open the screen resolution panel to extend your desktop to an

external monitor and also change the display settings.

F2 — Manage power settings

Press <Fn><F2> to manage the power setting using the AlienFusion software

available in the Alienware Command Center (for more information, see “Alienware Command Center” on page 40).

F3 — Wireless control - Switch wireless radio(s) on/o

Press <Fn><F3> to enable or disable the wireless radios(s) (for more information,

see “Using the Wireless Control” on page 44).

F4 — Increase display brightness

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

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

F5 — Decrease display brightness

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

F6 — Eject

Press <Fn><F6> to eject the disc from the optical drive.

F7 — Mute sound playback

Press <Fn><F7> to mute or unmute the sound.

F8 — Decrease volume

Press <Fn><F8> to decrease the volume level.

F9 — Increase volume

Press <Fn><F9> to increase the volume level.

F10 — Rewind or play previous track

Press <Fn><F10> to rewind or play previous track.

F11 — Play or pause

Press <Fn><F11> to play or pause a track.

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP

F12 — Fast Forward or Play next track

Press <Fn><F12> to fast forward or play the next track.

PAUSE — Alienware Command Center

Press <Fn><PAUSE> to access Alienware Command Center (for more information,

see “Alienware Command Center” on page 40).

PRT SCRN — AlienFX

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

INSERT — Touch Pad control

Press <Fn><INSERT> to enable or disable the touch pad.

NOTE: e illuminated lighting will remain on even when the touch pad is

disabled.

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 <Fn><PAUSE> on the function keys. For more information, see “Function Keys” on page 36.

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

Connection Type Computer Cable Display

VGA‑to‑VGA (VGA cable)

HDMI‑to‑HDMI (HDMI cable)

Mini-DisplayPortto-DisplayPort (Mini-DisplayPortto-DisplayPort

adapter +

DisplayPort Cable)

Mini-DisplayPort-

to‑DVI (Mini‑

DisplayPort-to-DVI

adapter + DVI cable)

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

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 connector on 3.

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 connector.5. Connect the other end of the power cable to a grounded three‑prong power strip or 6.

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

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Extending the Desktop

With the external display connected, right‑click on the desktop and select 1. Screen resolution or press the <Fn><F1> keys.

Customize the following options:2.

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. 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.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Using the Wireless Control

e wireless control allows you to quickly manage all of your wireless radio(s) (Bluetooth,

WLAN, WWAN, and WirelessHD).

To enable/disable wireless:

Turn on your computer.1.

Press the <Fn><F3> keys.2.

In the pop‑up window that appears, select the option(s) to enable wireless or clear the 3. option(s) to disable wireless.

Click 4. OK.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

1 Battery Meter

Battery Pack

Your laptop is equipped with a high‑energy rechargeable lithium polymer battery pack.

Battery life will vary 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 will decrease 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% of the total battery charge. For example, if four lights turn on, there is approximately 60 to 80% of battery charge remaining and if no lights turn on, there is

no charge remaining in the battery.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

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, click 4. 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.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

nVidia Optimus Technology

Your Alienware M14x laptop is equipped with nVidia Optimus technology. e Optimus

technology is designed to maximize performance and user experience on your computer, while minimizing the impact on battery life. It enables you to combine the graphic processing

capability of the integrated Intel graphic processing unit (GPU) with the discrete nVidia GPU while running graphic-intensive applications such as 3-D games. e nVidia GPU is turned on

only for preset applications and thus extends the battery life.

e Optimus technology is enabled through an application prole. When an application is launched, the video drivers check to see if the application has a prole associated with it.

If an application prole exists, the nVidia GPU is turned on and the application runs in •

performance mode. e nVidia GPU is turned o automatically when the application is

closed.

If an application prole does not exist, the integrated Intel GPU is used.•

e default list of application proles is updated frequently by nVidia and is automatically

downloaded to your computer when you are connected to the Internet.

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.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

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.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

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.

FastAccess Facial Recognition (Optional)

Your computer may have the FastAccess facial recognition feature. is feature helps keep your

Alienware computer secure by using the unique appearance of your face to verify your identity and automatically supply login information that you would normally enter manually, such as a user ID and password for a Windows account or a secure web site. For more information, click

Start → Programs→ FastAccess.

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.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

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 2.

appears to access the BIOS Setup Utility.

If an error occurs during Power On Self Test (POST), 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

CPU Frequency

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.

Displays the speed of the processor.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Main Menu

CPU L3 Cache

CPUID

Integrated Graphics

Discrete Graphics

Total Memory

Memory Bank 0

Memory Bank 1

Displays the processor cache size.

Displays the ID of the processor.

Displays the integrated graphics.

Displays the 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.

Advanced Menu

Intel SpeedStep

Virtualization

USB Emulation

USB Wake Support

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

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 any type of USB device (hard drive, or

memory key) when this option is o.

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.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Advanced Menu

USB Power Share

Integrated Network

High Denition

Audio

SD Card Reader

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.

Advanced Menu

Performance

Options

SATA Operation

SATA HARD DRIVE 1

Adapter Warnings

Charger Behavior

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Allows you to congure elds in the Performance Options submenu (for more information, see “Advanced — Performance Options Menu“ on page 58).

Allows you to congure the operating mode of the integrated

SATA hard drive controller.

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

Displays the installed 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 A/C adapters • and will not display any message to screen.

Enabled : BIOS will detect unsupported A/C adapters and • display an error to screen.

Allows you to enable or disable battery charging.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Advanced — Performance Options Menu

CPU Turbo Mode

Overclocking Features

Override Turbo settings

Long Duration Power Limit

Long Duration Time Window

Short Duration Power Limit

Short Duration Time Window

Bus Clock

Current Frequency

Allows you to enable or disable the Intel CPU turbo mode

performance option.

Allows you to enable or disable the global overclocking feature.

Disabled: e overclocking feature is disabled. • Enabled: Displays additional overclocking options. •

Allows you to override CPU turbo mode settings.

Allows you to set the turbo mode power limit 1 value in watts.

Allows you to set the turbo mode time 1 value in seconds.

Allows you to enable or disable short duration power limit.

Allows you to set the turbo mode power limit 2 value in watts.

Displays the current bus clock frequency.

Advanced — Performance Options Menu

New Frequency in 10KHz increments

Apply New Bus Clock Frequency

Memory Overclocking

Memory Override

Support

Memory Voltage

Memory Frequency

XMP DIMM Prole

Allows you to enter a new bus clock frequency in 10 Khz increments.

Allows you to apply the new bus clock frequency

Immediately: e new bus clock frequency is applied • immediately.

Once: e new bus clock frequency is applied once until the • next reboot.

Permanently: e new bus clock frequency is applied • permanently after the next reboot.

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.

Allows you to increase memory voltage.

Allows you to set memory frequency.

Allows you to congure dierent XMP options.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Wireless Menu

Bluetooth

Wireless Network

WWAN

Wireless Switch/ Hotkey

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 WWAN device.

Disabled: e internal WWAN device is disabled and is not • visible to the operating system.

Enabled: e internal WWAN device is enabled. •

Allows you to disable all internal wireless devices.

Security Menu

Supervisor

Password

User Password

Set Service Tag

Set Supervisor

Password

Set User Password

Computrace

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

Displays if the supervisor password is clear or set.

Displays if the user password is clear or set.

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.

Allows you to set the supervisor password. e supervisor

password controls access to the system setup utility.

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.

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

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 • Removal Devices • Network •

Exit Menu

Exit Saving

Changes

Save Change

Without Exit

Exit Discarding

Changes

Load Optimal

Defaults

Discard Changes

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP

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 AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

is chapter provides guidelines and instructions for increasing the processing power

by upgrading equipment. You can purchase components for your computer at dell.com or alienware.com.

NOTE: See the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals for installation instructions

of all serviceable components.

Before You Begin

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.

e procedures in this section may require the following tools:

Small at-blade screwdriver • Phillips screwdriver •

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

Turning Off Your Computer

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 and any attached devices are turned o. If your computer 3.

and attached devices did not automatically turn o when you shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns o.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING 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.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

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 from being 1.

scratched.

Turn o your computer (for more information, see “Turning O Your Computer” on 2. page 67).

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 Media Card Reader. 4. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.5.

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 (for more information, see “Replacing the 6.

Battery Pack” on page 70). Press the power button to ground the system board.7.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

Replacing the Battery Pack

e 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. 66. Shut down the laptop and turn it over.2. Loosen the two captive screws that secure the base cover to the computer base.3.

Slide and lift the base cover o the computer base.4.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

1 captive screws (2) 3 tabs (6)

2 base cover

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

Loosen the two captive screws that secure the battery pack to the computer base.5. Disconnect the battery pack cable from the connector on the system board.6.

Lift the battery pack o the computer base.7.

1 battery pack cable 3 captive screws (2)

2 battery pack

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

To replace the battery pack:

Follow the the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 1. 66.

Place the battery pack in the battery bay and tighten the two captive screws that secure 2.

the battery pack to the computer base. Connect the battery pack cable to the connector on the system board.3. Align the tabs on the base cover with the slots on the computer base.4. Slide the base cover until it clicks into place. 5. Tighten the two captive screws that secure the base cover to the computer base.6.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

Upgrading or Replacing Memory

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. e table below illustrates all the possible ways system memory can be congured.

Memory connector #1 Memory connector #2 Total memory

1 GB 1 GB 2 GB

1 GB 2 GB 3 GB

2 GB 2 GB 4 GB

2 GB 4 GB 6 GB

4 GB 4 GB 8 GB

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

Removing the Memory Module(s)

Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 1. 66. Shut down the laptop and turn it over.2. Loosen the two captive screws that secure the base cover to the computer base.3.

Slide and lift the base cover o the computer base.4. Remove the battery (see “Replacing the Battery Pack” on page 5. 70).

Loosen the two captive screws that secure the memory‑module cover to the computer 6. base.

Lift the memory‑module cover away from the computer.7.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

1 memory-module cover 2 captive screws (2)

Use your ngertips to carefully spread apart the memory module connector’s spring-locks 8.

until the module pops up. Remove the memory module.9.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING 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.

CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

Basic Hints and Tips

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><F1> 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

Backup and General Maintenance

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. •

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

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. •

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

Software Diagnostic Tools

Enhanced Pre-Boot System Assessment (ePSA)

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

of your system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, etc.

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>.

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

During the assessment, answer any questions that appear.

If a failure is detected, the computer stops and 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>.

If failures are detected during the Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment, write down •

the error code(s) and contact Alienware (for more information, see “Contacting Alienware“ on page 117).

If the Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment 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>, otherwise press <n>. e following message

is displayed: “Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment complete.”

Press <o> to reboot your computer.

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

Answers to Common Problems

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 117).

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 until the computer turns o, then

restart your computer.

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

instructions on the screen.

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

Software Problems

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly

End the program:

Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously. 1.

Click the 2. Applications tab and select the program that is no longer responding. Click 3. End Task.

Check the software documentation.

If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.

A program is designed for an earlier version of Microsoft Windows

Run the Program Compatibility Wizard:

e Program Compatibility Wizard congures a program so that it runs in an environment

similar to an earlier version of Microsoft Windows operating system environments.

Click 1. Start → Control Panel→ Programs→ Programs and Features→ Use an older program with this version of Windows.

In the welcome screen, click 2. Next. Follow the instructions on the screen.3.

CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

Dell Alienware M14x User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual