Alienware M17x-R3 Service
Manual
Regulatory model: P11E Regulatory type: P11E001
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of
your computer.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of data if
instructions are not followed.
WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal
injury, or death.
____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2011 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction of these materials in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc.
is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dellâ„¢ and the DELL logo are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Alienware
a registered trademark of Alienware Corporation; Bluetooth
Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; Microsoft
button logo are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United
States and/or other countries.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document 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.
®
is a registered trademark owned by
®
, Windows®, and the Win dows st art
®
is
Regulatory model: P11E Regulatory type: P11E001
January 2011 Rev. A00
Contents
1 Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Recommended Tools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Turning Off Your Computer
Before Working Inside Your Computer . . . . . . . . . 10
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2 Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Removing the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Replacing the Battery Pack
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3 Compartment Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Removing the Compartment Door . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Replacing the Compartment Door . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4 Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Removing the Coin-Cell Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5 Hard Drive(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Removing the Hard Drive(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Contents 3
Replacing the Hard Drive(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
6 Memory Module(s). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Removing the Memory Module(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Replacing the Memory Module(s)
. . . . . . . . . . . . 27
7 Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan . . . . . . . . 31
Removing the Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan . . . . . . 31
Replacing the Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan
. . . . . . 32
8 Graphics-Card Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Removing the Graphics-Card Assembly . . . . . . . . . 35
Replacing the Graphics-Card Assembly. . . . . . . . . 36
9 Processor Heat-Sink Fan. . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Removing the Processor Heat-Sink Fan. . . . . . . . . 37
Replacing the Processor Heat-Sink Fan
. . . . . . . . . 38
10 Processor Heat-Sink . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
4 Contents
Removing the Processor Heat-Sink . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Replacing the Processor Heat-Sink
. . . . . . . . . . . 42
11 Processor Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Removing the Processor Module . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Replacing the Processor Module
. . . . . . . . . . . . 46
12 Center Control Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Removing the Center Control Cover . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Replacing the Center Control Cover
. . . . . . . . . . . 52
13 Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Removing the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Replacing the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
14 Wireless Mini-Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Removing the Mini-Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Replacing the Mini-Card
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
15 WirelessHD Card (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . 63
Removing the WirelessHD Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Replacing the WirelessHD Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
16 Power Button Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Removing the Power Button Board . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Contents 5
Replacing the Power Button Board . . . . . . . . . . . 68
17 Display Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Removing the Display Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Replacing the Display Assembly
. . . . . . . . . . . . 73
18 Status Light Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Removing the Status Light Board . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Replacing the Status Light Board
. . . . . . . . . . . . 76
19 Palm Rest Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Removing the Palm Rest Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Replacing the Palm Rest Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . 81
20 Internal Card With Bluetooth Wireless Technology
83
Removing the Bluetooth Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Replacing the Bluetooth Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
21 Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
6 Contents
Removing the Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Replacing the Speakers
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
22 Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Removing the Optical Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Replacing the Optical Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
23 System Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Removing the System Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Replacing the System Board
Entering the Service Tag in the BIOS
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
. . . . . . . . . . 99
24 System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Configuring the System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Entering System Setup
System Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
System Setup Options
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
25 Flashing the BIOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Contents 7
8 Contents
1
Before You Begin
This manual provides procedures for removing and installing the components
in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the
following conditions exist:
• You have performed the steps in "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 9
and "Before Working Inside Your Computer" on page 10.
• 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.
Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
• Small flat-blade screwdriver
•Phillips screwdriver
•Plastic scribe
• BIOS executable update program at
support.dell.com
.
Turning Off Your Computer
CAUTION: To avoid losing data, save and close all open files and exit all open
programs before you turn off your computer.
1
Save and close all open files and exit all open programs.
2
Click
Start
, and then click
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process
finishes.
3
Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your
computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you
shut down your operating system, press and hold the power button for at
least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off.
Shut Down
.
Before You Begin 9
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 computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components
or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket.
Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.
CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your
computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dellâ„¢ is not covered
by your warranty.
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.
1
Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.
2
Turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your Computer" on page 9).
CAUTION: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your
computer and then unplug the cable from the network device.
3
Disconnect all telephone or network cables from the computer.
4
Press and eject any installed cards from the 9-in-1 Media Card Reader.
5
Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.
6
Disconnect all attached devices from your computer.
10 Before You Begin
CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
7
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
8
Turn the computer top-side up, open the display, and press the power button to ground the system board.
Before You Begin 11
12 Before You Begin
Battery Pack
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 damage to the computer, use only the battery designed for
this particular Alienware computer. Do not use batteries designed for other
Alienware computers.
Removing the Battery Pack
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Shut down the computer and turn it over.
3
Slide the battery latch to the unlock position as shown. The battery pack pops up.
4
Remove the battery pack.
2
Battery Pack 13
1 battery pack 2 battery latch
1
2
Replacing the Battery Pack
CAUTION: To avoid damage to the computer, use only the battery designed for
this particular Alienware computer.
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Align the tabs on the battery with the slots on the battery bay and snap the battery into place.
14 Battery Pack
Compartment Door
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Compartment Door
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the two screws that secure the compartment door to the computer base.
4
Slide and lift the compartment door away from the computer.
3
Compartment Door 15
1 compartment door 2 screws (2)
2
1
Replacing the Compartment Door
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Align the tabs on the compartment door with the slots on the computer base and slide the compartment door into place.
3
Replace the two screws that secure the compartment door to the computer base.
4
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
16 Compartment Door
Coin-Cell Battery
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Coin-Cell Battery
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Use a plastic scribe to pry up the coin-cell battery from the slot on the system board.
4
Coin-Cell Battery 17
1 plastic scribe 2 coin-cell battery
1
2
Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Hold the coin-cell battery with the positive side up.
3
Slide the coin-cell battery into the slot and gently press until it snaps into place.
4
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
5
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
18 Coin-Cell Battery
Hard Drive(s)
WARNING: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot,
do not touch
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
CAUTION: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see "Turning Off Your
Computer" on page 9) before removing the hard-drive assembly. Do not remove the
hard drive while the computer is On or in Sleep state.
CAUTION: Hard drives are extremely fragile. Exercise care when handling the
hard drive.
CAUTION: Only a certified 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: 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.
NOTE: Dell or Alienware does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for
hard drives from sources other than Dell.
NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell or Alienware,
you need to install an operating system, drivers, and utilities on the new hard drive.
the metal housing of the hard drive.
5
Hard Drive(s) 19
Removing the Hard Drive(s)
1
2
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Loosen the three captive screws that secure the hard-drive assembly to the computer base.
5
Using the pull-tab, lift the hard-drive assembly to disconnect it from the connector on the system board.
6
Lift the hard-drive assembly out of the computer base.
Primary hard-drive assembly
1 captive screws (3) 2 primary hard-drive assembly
Secondary hard-drive assembly
20 Hard Drive(s)
1 captive screws (3) 2 secondary hard-drive assembly
1
2
7
Remove the four screws that secure the hard drive to the hard-drive bracket.
8
Lift the hard-drive off the hard-drive bracket.
9
Remove the interposer from the hard drive.
Hard Drive(s) 21
1 interposer 2 screws (4)
1
2
3
4
3 hard-drive bracket 4 hard drive
CAUTION: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective
antistatic packaging (see "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the
safety instructions that shipped with your computer).
Replacing the Hard Drive(s)
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the new drive from its packaging.
Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive.
3
Connect the interposer to the hard drive.
4
Place the hard drive in the hard-drive bracket.
5
Replace the four screws that secure the hard drive to the hard-drive bracket.
6
Align the connector on the hard drive with the connector on the system board and press the hard drive until it is fully seated.
22 Hard Drive(s)
7
Tighten the three captive screws that secure the hard-drive assembly to the computer base.
8
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
9
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
10
Install the operating system for your computer, as needed.
11
Install the drivers and utilities for your computer, as needed.
Hard Drive(s) 23
24 Hard Drive(s)
6
Memory Module(s)
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on
the system board. See the "Specifications" section in your Mobile Manual for
information on the type of memory supported by your computer.
NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell or Alienware are covered under your
computer warranty.
NOTE: If you purchased a dual-core processor, your computer supports only
memory module connectors DIMM 1 and DIMM 2.
NOTE: Your computer supports up to four memory module connectors. You can
access connectors DIMM 1 and DIMM 2 by removing the compartment door at the
bottom of your computer. You can access connectors DIMM 3 and DIMM 4 by
removing the memory-module cover on top of the palm rest assembly.
Removing the Memory Module(s)
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
Memory Module(s) 25
4
2
1
To remove memory module(s) from connectors DIMM 1 and DIMM 2, go to step 6.
5
To remove memory-module(s) from connectors DIMM 3 and DIMM 4:
a
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control
Cover" on page 49).
b
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
c
Remove the three screws that secure the memory-module cover to the
palm rest assembly.
1 memory-module cover 2 screws (3)
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory-module connector, do not use tools
to spread the memory module securing clips.
6
Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory-module connector until the memory module pops up.
26 Memory Module(s)
1 memory-module connector 2 securing clips (2)
3
2
1
3 memory module
7
Remove the memory module from the memory-module connector.
Replacing the Memory Module(s)
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
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.
2
Align the notch in the memory module with the tab in the memory-module connector.
3
Slide the memory module firmly into the connector at a 45-degree angle, and press the memory module down until it clicks into place. If you do not hear the click, remove the memory module and reinstall it.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot.
Memory Module(s) 27
1 memory-module connector 2 tab
1
2
3
3 notch
4
If you have replaced memory mobule(s) in connectors DIMM 1 and DIMM 2, go to step 6.
5
If you have replaced memory mobule(s) in connectors DIMM 3 and DIMM 4:
a
Align the screw holes on the memory-module cover with the screw
holes on the palm rest assembly.
b
Replace the three screws that secure the memory-module cover to the
palm rest assembly.
c
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
d
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control
Cover" on page 52).
6
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
7
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
28 Memory Module(s)
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
8
Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically
updates the system configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer:
Click Start
→
Control Panel→ System and Security→ System.
Memory Module(s) 29
30 Memory Module(s)
Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that
shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see
the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
WARNING: The graphics-card assembly may be very hot during normal
operation. Ensure that it has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 your computer).
CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door"
on page 15).
4
Disconnect the graphics-card heat sink fan cable from the connector on
the system board.
5
Loosen the three captive screws that secure the graphics-card heat sink fan
to the chassis.
6
Lift the graphics-card heat sink fan along with the cable away from the
chassis.
7
Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan 31
1 graphics-card heat sink fan cable 2 captive screws (3)
1
2
3
3 graphics-card heat sink fan
Replacing the Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Align the screw holes on the graphics-card heat sink fan with the screw
holes on the chassis.
3
Tighten the three captive screws that secure the graphics-card heat sink
fan to the chassis.
4
Connect the graphics-card heat sink fan cable to the connector on the
system board.
5
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door"
on page 16).
6
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
32 Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan
Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan 33
34 Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan
Graphics-Card Assembly
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that
shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see
the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
WARNING: The graphics-card assembly may be very hot during normal
operation. Ensure that it has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 your computer).
CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Graphics-Card Assembly
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door"
on page 15).
4
Remove the graphics-card heat sink fan (see "Removing the Graphics-Card
Heat Sink Fan" on page 31).
5
Remove the two screws that secure the graphics-card assembly to the
system board.
6
Lift and slide the graphics-card assembly out to disconnect it from the
connector on the system board.
8
Graphics-Card Assembly 35
1 graphics-card assembly 2 screws (2)
1
2
Replacing the Graphics-Card Assembly
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Insert the graphics card connector at a 45-degree angle into the connector
on the system board.
3
Press the other end of the graphics-card assembly down into the slot on the
system board and replace the two screws that secure the graphics-card
assembly to the system board.
4
Replace the graphics-card heat sink fan (see "Replacing the Graphics-Card
Heat Sink Fan" on page 32).
5
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door"
on page 16).
6
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
36 Graphics-Card Assembly
Processor Heat-Sink Fan
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that
shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see
the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
WARNING: The processor heat sink may be very hot during normal operation.
Ensure that it has had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 your computer).
CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Processor Heat-Sink Fan
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door"
on page 15).
4
Disconnect the processor heat-sink fan cable from the connector on the
system board.
5
Loosen the three captive screws that secure the processor heat-sink fan to
the chassis.
6
Lift the processor heat-sink fan along with the cable away from the chassis.
9
Processor Heat-Sink Fan 37
1 processor heat-sink fan cable 2 processor heat-sink fan
1
2
3
3 captive screws (3)
Replacing the Processor Heat-Sink Fan
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Align the screw holes on the processor heat-sink fan with the screw holes
on the chassis.
3
Tighten the three captive screws that secure the processor heat-sink fan to
the chassis.
4
Connect the processor heat-sink fan cable to the connector on the system
board.
5
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door"
on page 16).
6
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
38 Processor Heat-Sink Fan
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
Processor Heat-Sink Fan 39
40 Processor Heat-Sink Fan
10
Processor Heat-Sink
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
WARNING: If you remove the processor heat-sink from the computer when the
heat sink is hot,
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 your computer).
CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Processor Heat-Sink
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door"
on page 15).
4
Remove the processor heat-sink fan (see "Removing the Processor
Heat-Sink Fan" on page 37).
5
In sequential order (indicated on the processor heat-sink), loosen the four
captive screws that secure the processor heat-sink to the system board.
6
Lift the processor heat-sink at an angle towards the front of the computer
and out of the computer base.
do not touch
the metal housing of the processor heat-sink.
Processor Heat-Sink 41
1 processor heat-sink 2 captive screws (4)
2
1
Replacing the Processor Heat-Sink
CAUTION: Incorrect alignment of the processor heat-sink can damage the
processor.
NOTE: The original thermal grease can be reused if the original processor
heat-sink is reinstalled. If the processor heat-sink is replaced, use the thermal
grease provided in the kit to ensure that thermal conductivity is achieved.
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Slide the processor heat-sink in place.
3
Align the four captive screws on the processor heat-sink with the screw
holes on the system board and tighten the screws in sequential order
(indicated on the processor heat-sink).
4
Replace the processor heat-sink fan (see "Replacing the Processor
Heat-Sink Fan" on page 38).
5
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door"
on page 16).
42 Processor Heat-Sink
6
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
Processor Heat-Sink 43
44 Processor Heat-Sink
11
Processor Module
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 your computer).
CAUTION: To prevent intermittent contact between the ZIF-socket cam screw and
the processor module when removing or replacing the processor, press to apply
slight pressure to the center of the processor module while turning the cam screw.
CAUTION: To avoid damage to the processor module, hold the screwdriver so that
it is perpendicular to the processor module when turning the cam screw.
CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Processor Module
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door"
on page 15).
4
Remove the processor heat-sink fan (see "Removing the Processor
Heat-Sink Fan" on page 37).
5
Remove the processor heat-sink (see "Removing the Processor Heat-Sink"
on page 41).
6
To loosen the ZIF socket, use a small, flat-blade screwdriver and rotate the
ZIF-socket cam screw counterclockwise until it comes to the cam stop.
Processor Module 45
1 ZIF socket 2 ZIF-socket cam screw
2
1
CAUTION: To ensure maximum cooling for the processor module, do not touch the
heat transfer areas on the processor thermal cooling assembly. The oils in your
skin can reduce the heat transfer capability of the thermal pads.
CAUTION: When removing the processor module, lift the module straight up. Be
careful not to bend the pins on the processor module.
7
Lift the processor module from the ZIF socket.
Replacing the Processor Module
NOTE: If a new processor module is installed, you will receive a new
thermal-cooling assembly, which will include an affixed thermal pad, or you will
receive a new thermal pad along with documentation to illustrate proper
installation.
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
46 Processor Module
2
Align the pin-1 corner of the processor module with the pin-1 corner of the
ZIF socket, then place the processor module.
NOTE: The pin-1 corner of the processor module has a triangle that aligns with the
triangle on the pin-1 corner of the ZIF socket.
When the processor module is properly seated, all four corners are aligned
at the same height. If one or more corners of the module are higher than
the others, the module is not seated properly.
CAUTION: To avoid damage to the processor module, hold the screwdriver
perpendicular to the processor module when turning the cam screw.
3
Tighten the ZIF socket by turning the cam screw clockwise to secure the
processor module to the system board.
4
Replace the processor heat-sink (see "Replacing the Processor Heat-Sink"
on page 42).
5
Replace the processor heat-sink fan (see "Replacing the Processor
Heat-Sink Fan" on page 38).
6
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door"
on page 16).
7
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
Processor Module 47
48 Processor Module
12
Center Control Cover
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Center Control Cover
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Remove the five screws that secure the center control cover to the computer base.
Center Control Cover 49
1 screws (5)
1
CAUTION: Be extremely careful when removing the center control cover. The
cover along with the cable that attaches to it are fragile.
5
Turn the computer over and open the display as far as possible.
6
Gently pry the center control cover from the back of the computer and then ease the tabs on the center control cover out of the slots on the palm rest assembly.
50 Center Control Cover
1 center control cover
1
CAUTION: Be extremely careful when removing and handling the center control
cover. Failure to do so could result in scratching the display panel.
7
Turn the center control cover towards the display.
8
Disconnect the media control keys cable from the connector on the system board.
9
Lift the center control cover away from the computer.
Center Control Cover 51
1 media control keys cable
1
Replacing the Center Control Cover
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Connect the media control keys cable to the connector on the system board.
3
Align the tabs on the center control cover with the slots on the palm rest assembly and snap the cover into place.
4
Close the display and turn the computer over.
5
Replace the five screws that secure the center control cover to the computer base.
6
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
7
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
52 Center Control Cover
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
Center Control Cover 53
54 Center Control Cover
13
Keyboard
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Keyboard
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control Cover" on page 49).
5
Remove the five screws that secure the keyboard to the computer base.
CAUTION: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-
consuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the keyboard.
CAUTION: Be extremely careful when removing and handling the keyboard.
Failure to do so could result in scratching the display panel.
6
Carefully lift the keyboard and slide the keyboard tabs out of the slots on the palm rest assembly.
7
Carefully turn the keyboard over and place it on the palm rest assembly.
Keyboard 55
1 screws (5) 2 keyboard
1
2
8
Lift the release latches on the connectors on the system board and disconnect the keyboard cable and backlit keyboard cable.
9
Lift the keyboard off the palm rest assembly.
56 Keyboard
1 keyboard cable 2 backlit keyboard cable
1
2
Replacing the Keyboard
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Slide the keyboard cable and backlit keyboard cable into their connectors on the system board and press down on their connector latches to secure the cables.
3
Slide the tabs on the keyboard into the slots on the palm rest assembly and lower the keyboard into place.
4
Replace the five screws that secure the keyboard to the computer base.
5
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control Cover" on page 52).
6
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
7
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
Keyboard 57
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
58 Keyboard
14
Wireless Mini-Card
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
NOTE: Dell or Alienware does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for
Mini-Cards from sources other than Dell or Alienware.
If you ordered a wireless Mini-Card with your computer, the card is already
installed.
Your computer supports one half Mini-Card slot for WLAN.
NOTE: Depending on the configuration of the computer when it was sold, the
Mini-Card slot may or may not have a Mini-Card installed.
Removing the Mini-Card
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control Cover" on page 49).
5
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
6
Disconnect the antenna cables from the Mini-Card.
Wireless Mini-Card 59
1 screw 2 antenna cables (2)
2
1
3
3 Mini-Card
7
Remove the screw that secures the Mini-Card to the system board.
8
Lift the Mini-Card out of the connector on the system board.
60 Wireless Mini-Card
CAUTION: When the Mini-Card is not in the computer, store it in protective
antistatic packaging. For more information, see "Protecting Against Electrostatic
Discharge" in the safety information that shipped with your computer.
Replacing the Mini-Card
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the new Mini-Card from its packaging.
CAUTION: Use firm and even pressure to slide the card into place. If you use
excessive force, you may damage the connector.
CAUTION: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel
resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the system board, and realign
the card.
3
Insert the Mini-Card connector at a 45-degree angle into the connector on the system board.
4
Press the other end of the Mini-Card down into the slot on the system board and replace the screw that secures the Mini-Card to the system board.
Wireless Mini-Card 61
5
Connect the appropriate antenna cables to the Mini-Card you are installing. The following table provides the antenna cable color scheme for each Mini-Card supported by your computer.
Connectors on the Mini-Card Antenna Cable Color Scheme
WLAN (2 or 3 antenna cables)
Main WLAN (white triangle)
Auxiliary WLAN (black triangle)
MIMO WLAN (gray triangle)
(optional)
6
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
7
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control
white
black
gray
Cover" on page 52).
8
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
9
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
10
Install the drivers and utilities for your computer, as required.
NOTE: If you are installing a Mini-card from a source other than Dell or Alienware,
you must install the appropriate drivers and utilities.
62 Wireless Mini-Card
15
WirelessHD Card (Optional)
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
If you ordered a wirelessHD card with your computer, the card is already
installed.
Removing the WirelessHD Card
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control Cover" on page 49).
5
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
6
Disconnect the wirelessHD card cable from the connector on the wirelessHD card.
7
Remove the screw that secures the wirelessHD card to the system board.
8
Lift the wirelessHD card out of the connector on the system board.
WirelessHD Card (Optional) 63
1 wirelessHD card cable 2 wirelessHD card
1
2
3
3 screw
Replacing the WirelessHD Card
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the new wirelessHD card from its packaging.
CAUTION: Use firm and even pressure to slide the card into place. If you use
excessive force, you may damage the connector.
CAUTION: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel
resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the system board, and realign
the card.
3
Insert the wirelessHD card connector at a 45-degree angle into the connector on the system board.
4
Press the other end of the wirelessHD card down into the slot on the system board and replace the screw that secures the wirelessHD card to the system board.
5
Connect the wirelessHD card cable to the connector on the wirelessHD card.
6
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
64 WirelessHD Card (Optional)
7
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control Cover" on page 52).
8
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
9
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
WirelessHD Card (Optional) 65
66 WirelessHD Card (Optional)
16
Power Button Board
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Power Button Board
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control Cover" on page 49).
5
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
6
Disconnect the power button board cable from the connector on the system board.
7
Remove the two screws that secure the power button board to the palm rest assembly.
8
Lift the power button board off the palm rest assembly.
Power Button Board 67
1 screws (2) 2 power button board
3
1
2
3 power button board cable
Replacing the Power Button Board
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Align the slots on the power button board with the alignment posts on the chassis and secure the power button board in place.
3
Replace the two screws that secure the power button board to the palm rest assembly.
4
Connect the power button board cable to the connector on the system board.
5
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
6
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control Cover" on page 52).
7
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
8
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
68 Power Button Board
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
Power Button Board 69
70 Power Button Board
17
Display Assembly
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Display Assembly
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control Cover" on page 49).
5
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
6
Disconnect the antenna cables from the Mini-Card (see "Removing the Mini-Card" on page 59).
7
Disconnect the wirelessHD card cable from the connector on the wirelessHD card (see "Removing the WirelessHD Card" on page 63).
8
Loosen the two captive screws that secure the display cable to the system board.
9
Using the pull-tab, pull the display cable to disconnect the display cable from the connector on the system board.
Display Assembly 71
10
2
3
1
5
4
Disconnect the camera cable and infrared cable from the respective system board connectors.
11
Note the routing of the display cable, camera cable, infrared cable, wirelessHD card cable, Mini-Card antenna cables and remove the cables from the routing guides on the palm rest assembly.
1 wirelessHD card cable 2 display cable
3 captive screws (2) 4 camera cable
5 infrared cable
12
Remove the six screws that secure the display assembly to the computer base.
13
Lift the display assembly off the computer.
72 Display Assembly
1 display assembly 2 screws (6)
1
2
Replacing the Display Assembly
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Place the display assembly in position and replace the six screws that secure the display assembly to the computer base.
3
Route the display cable, camera cable, infrared cable, wirelessHD card cable, and Mini-Card antenna cables through the routing guides on the palm rest assembly.
4
Connect the display cable to the connector on the system board.
5
Tighten the two captive screws that secure the display cable to the system board.
6
Connect the camera cable and infrared cable to the respective system board connectors.
Display Assembly 73
7
Connect the wirelessHD card cable to the connector on the wirelessHD card (see "Replacing the WirelessHD Card" on page 64).
8
Connect the Mini-Card antenna cables to the Mini-Card (see "Replacing the Mini-Card" on page 61).
9
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
10
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control Cover" on page 52).
11
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
12
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
74 Display Assembly
18
Status Light Board
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Status Light Board
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control Cover" on page 49).
5
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
6
Remove the display assembly (see "Removing the Display Assembly" on page 71).
7
Disconnect the status light board cable from the connector on the system board.
8
Note the routing of status light board cable and remove the cable from the routing guides.
9
Remove the two screws that secure the status light board to the palm rest assembly.
Status Light Board 75
10
1
2
3
Lift the status light board off the palm rest assembly.
1 screws (2) 2 status light board
3 status light board cable
Replacing the Status Light Board
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Align the slots on the status light board with the alignment posts on the palm rest assembly and secure the status light board in place.
3
Replace the two screws that secure the status light board to the palm rest assembly.
4
Route the status light board cable through the routing guides on the palm rest assembly.
5
Connect the status light board cable to the connector on the system board.
6
Replace the display assembly (see "Replacing the Display Assembly" on page 73).
7
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
76 Status Light Board
8
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control Cover" on page 52).
9
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
10
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
Status Light Board 77
78 Status Light Board
19
Palm Rest Assembly
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Palm Rest Assembly
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove any installed card or blank from the 9-in-1 Media Card Reader.
3
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
4
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
5
Remove the five screws that secure the palm rest assembly to the computer base.
Palm Rest Assembly 79
1 screws (5)
1
6
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control Cover" on page 49).
7
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
8
Remove the power button board (see "Removing the Power Button Board" on page 67).
9
Remove the display assembly (see "Removing the Display Assembly" on page 71).
10
Remove the status light board (see "Removing the Status Light Board" on page 75).
11
Disconnect the touch pad cable, LVDS cable, and Media Card Reader cable from the connectors on the system board.
12
Remove the three screws that secure the palm rest assembly to the computer base.
80 Palm Rest Assembly
13
2
3
4
5
1
Carefully pry out the palm rest assembly along the rear edge and then ease the palm rest assembly from the computer base.
CAUTION: Carefully separate the palm rest assembly from the computer base to
avoid damage to the palm rest assembly.
14
Lift the palm rest assembly off the computer base.
1 palm rest assembly 2 LVDS cable
3 touch pad cable 4 Media Card Reader cable
5 screws (3)
Replacing the Palm Rest Assembly
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Align the screw holes on the palm rest assembly with the screw holes on the computer base.
3
Replace the three screws that secure the palm rest assembly to the computer base.
Palm Rest Assembly 81
4
Connect the touch pad cable, LVDS cable, and Media Card Reader cable to the connectors on the system board.
5
Replace the status light board (see "Replacing the Status Light Board" on page 76).
6
Replace the display assembly (see "Replacing the Display Assembly" on page 73).
7
Replace the power button board (see "Replacing the Power Button Board" on page 68).
8
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
9
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control Cover" on page 52).
10
Replace the five screws that secure the palm rest assembly to the computer base.
11
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
12
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
13
Replace any cards or blank that you removed from the 9-in-1 Media Card Reader.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
82 Palm Rest Assembly
20
Internal Card With Bluetooth Wireless Technology
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
If you ordered a card with Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer,
it is already installed.
Removing the Bluetooth Card
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control Cover" on page 49).
5
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
6
Remove the power button board (see "Removing the Power Button Board" on page 67).
7
Remove the display assembly (see "Removing the Display Assembly" on page 71).
Internal Card With Bluetooth Wireless Technology 83
8
1
3
2
Remove the status light board (see "Removing the Status Light Board" on page 75).
9
Remove the palm rest assembly (see "Removing the Palm Rest Assembly" on page 79).
10
Disconnect the Bluetooth-card cable from the connector on the system board.
11
Remove the screw that secures the Bluetooth card to the system board.
12
Lift the Bluetooth card away from the system board.
1 Bluetooth-card cable 2 Bluetooth card
3 screw
Replacing the Bluetooth Card
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9
2
Align the screw hole on the Bluetooth card with the screw hole on the system board.
3
Replace the screw that secures the Bluetooth card to the system board.
4
Connect the Bluetooth-card cable to the connector on the system board.
5
Replace the palm rest assembly (see "Replacing the Palm Rest Assembly" on page 81).
84 Internal Card With Bluetooth Wireless Technology
6
Replace the status light board (see "Replacing the Status Light Board" on page 76).
7
Replace the display assembly (see "Replacing the Display Assembly" on page 73).
8
Replace the power button board (see "Replacing the Power Button Board" on page 68).
9
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
10
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control Cover" on page 52).
11
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
12
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
Internal Card With Bluetooth Wireless Technology 85
86 Internal Card With Bluetooth Wireless Technology
21
Speakers
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Speakers
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
4
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control Cover" on page 49).
5
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
6
Remove the power button board (see "Removing the Power Button Board" on page 67).
7
Remove the display assembly (see "Removing the Display Assembly" on page 71).
8
Remove the status light board (see "Removing the Status Light Board" on page 75).
9
Remove the palm rest assembly (see "Removing the Palm Rest Assembly" on page 79).
Speakers 87
10
1
2
3
Disconnect the speakers cable from the connector on the system board.
11
Note the speakers cable routing and remove the cable from the routing guides on the computer base.
12
Remove the four screws that secure the speakers to the computer base.
13
Lift the speakers along with the cable off the computer base.
1 speakers (2) 2 screws (4)
3 speakers cable
Replacing the Speakers
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Align the screw holes on the speakers with the screw holes on the computer base and route the speaker cables in the routing guides.
3
Replace the four screws that secure the speakers to the computer base.
4
Route the speakers cable through the routing guides on the computer base.
88 Speakers
5
Connect the speakers cable to the connector on the system board.
6
Replace the palm rest assembly (see "Replacing the Palm Rest Assembly" on page 81).
7
Replace the status light board (see "Replacing the Status Light Board" on page 76).
8
Replace the display assembly (see "Replacing the Display Assembly" on page 73).
9
Replace the power button board (see "Replacing the Power Button Board" on page 68).
10
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
11
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control Cover" on page 52).
12
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
13
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
Speakers 89
90 Speakers
22
Optical Drive
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 your computer).
CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
Removing the Optical Drive
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
3
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door"
on page 15).
4
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control
Cover" on page 49).
5
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
6
Remove the power button board (see "Removing the Power Button Board"
on page 67).
7
Remove the display assembly (see "Removing the Display Assembly" on
page 71).
8
Remove the status light board (see "Removing the Status Light Board" on
page 75).
9
Remove the palm rest assembly (see "Removing the Palm Rest Assembly"
on page 79).
10
Remove the speakers (see "Removing the Speakers" on page 87).
Optical Drive 91
11
1
3
2
Lift the release latch on the connector on the system board and disconnect
the optical-drive cable from the connector on the system board.
12
Remove the two screws that secure the optical-drive assembly to the
computer base.
13
Lift the optical-drive assembly off the computer base.
1 optical-drive cable 2 screws (2)
3 optical drive
14
Remove the five screws that secure the optical-drive bracket to the optical
drive.
92 Optical Drive
1 optical drive 2 optical-drive bracket
1
2
3
1
3 screws (5)
15
Remove the interposer from the optical drive.
1 interposer
Optical Drive 93
Replacing the Optical Drive
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Replace the interposer to the optical drive.
3
Align the screw holes on the optical-drive bracket with the screw holes on
the optical drive and replace the five screws.
4
Align the slot on the optical-drive bracket with the alignment posts on
computer chassis and secure the optical-drive assembly in place.
5
Replace the two screws that secure the optical-drive assembly to the
computer base.
6
Slide the optical drive cable into the connector on the system board and
press down on the connector latch to secure the cable.
7
Replace the speakers (see "Replacing the Speakers" on page 88).
8
Replace the palm rest assembly (see "Replacing the Palm Rest Assembly"
on page 81).
9
Replace the status light board (see "Replacing the Status Light Board" on
page 76).
10
Replace the display assembly (see "Replacing the Display Assembly" on
page 73).
11
Replace the power button board (see "Replacing the Power Button Board"
on page 68).
12
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
13
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control
Cover" on page 52).
14
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door"
on page 16).
15
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
94 Optical Drive
23
System Board
WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information
that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information,
see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at
www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.
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 your computer).
CAUTION: Only a certified 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 help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery
(see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13) before working inside the computer.
CAUTION: Handle components by their edges, and avoid touching pins and
contacts.
The system board’s BIOS chip contains the Service Tag, which is also visible
on a barcode label at the bottom of the computer.
Removing the System Board
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Remove any installed card or blank from the 9-in-1 Media Card Reader.
3
Remove the battery pack (see "Removing the Battery Pack" on page 13).
4
Remove the compartment door (see "Removing the Compartment Door" on page 15).
5
Remove the hard drive(s) (see "Removing the Hard Drive(s)" on page 20).
6
Remove the coin-cell battery (see "Removing the Coin-Cell Battery" on page 17).
7
Remove the memory module(s) (see "Removing the Memory Module(s)" on page 25).
System Board 95
8
Remove the graphics-card heat sink fan (see "Removing the Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan" on page 31).
9
Remove the graphics-card assembly (see "Removing the Graphics-Card Assembly" on page 35).
10
Remove the processor heat-sink fan (see "Removing the Processor Heat-Sink Fan" on page 37).
11
Remove the processor heat-sink (see "Removing the Processor Heat-Sink" on page 41).
12
Remove the processor module (see "Removing the Processor Module" on page 45).
13
Remove the center control cover (see "Removing the Center Control Cover" on page 49).
14
Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 55).
15
Remove the Mini-Card (see "Removing the Mini-Card" on page 59).
16
Remove the power button board (see "Removing the Power Button Board" on page 67).
17
Remove the display assembly (see "Removing the Display Assembly" on page 71).
18
Remove the wirelessHD card (see "Removing the WirelessHD Card" on page 63).
19
Remove the status light board (see "Removing the Status Light Board" on page 75).
20
Remove the palm rest assembly (see "Removing the Palm Rest Assembly" on page 79).
21
Remove the Bluetooth card (see "Removing the Bluetooth Card" on page 83).
22
Remove the speakers (see "Removing the Speakers" on page 87).
23
Follow the instructions from step 11 to step 13 in "Removing the Optical Drive" on page 91.
24
Remove the six screws that secure the system board to the computer base.
25
Carefully ease the connectors on the system board out of the slots in the computer, and lift the system board off the computer base.
96 System Board
1 screws (6) 2 system board
1
2
Replacing the System Board
1
Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 9.
2
Align the connectors on the system board with the slots on the computer base and place it on the computer base.
3
Replace the six screws that secure the system board to the computer base.
4
Follow the instructions from step 4 to step 6 in "Replacing the Optical Drive" on page 94.
5
Replace the speakers (see "Replacing the Speakers" on page 88).
6
Replace the Bluetooth card (see "Replacing the Bluetooth Card" on page 84).
7
Replace the palm rest assembly (see "Replacing the Palm Rest Assembly" on page 81).
8
Replace the status light board (see "Replacing the Status Light Board" on page 76).
System Board 97
9
Replace the wirelessHD card (see "Replacing the WirelessHD Card" on page 64).
10
Replace the display assembly (see "Replacing the Display Assembly" on page 73).
11
Replace the power button board (see "Replacing the Power Button Board" on page 68).
12
Replace the Mini-Card (see "Replacing the Mini-Card" on page 61).
13
Replace the memory module(s) (see "Replacing the Memory Module(s)" on page 27).
14
Replace the keyboard (see "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 57).
15
Replace the center control cover (see "Replacing the Center Control Cover" on page 52).
16
Replace the processor module (see "Replacing the Processor Module" on page 46).
17
Replace the processor heat-sink (see "Replacing the Processor Heat-Sink" on page 42).
18
Replace the processor heat-sink fan (see "Replacing the Processor Heat-Sink Fan" on page 38).
19
Replace the graphics-card assembly (see "Replacing the Graphics-Card Assembly" on page 36).
20
Replace the graphics-card heat sink fan (see "Replacing the Graphics-Card Heat Sink Fan" on page 32).
21
Replace the coin-cell battery (see "Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery" on page 18).
22
Replace the hard drive(s) (see "Replacing the Hard Drive(s)" on page 22).
23
Replace the compartment door (see "Replacing the Compartment Door" on page 16).
24
Replace the battery pack (see "Replacing the Battery Pack" on page 14).
25
Replace any cards or blank that you removed from the 9-in-1 Media Card Reader.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no
stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may result in damage to
the computer.
98 System Board
26
Turn on the computer.
NOTE: After you have replaced the system board, enter the computer Service
Tag into the BIOS of the replacement system board.
27
Enter the service tag (see "Entering the Service Tag in the BIOS" on page 99).
Entering the Service Tag in the BIOS
1
Ensure that the AC adapter is plugged in and that the main battery is installed properly.
2
Turn on the computer.
3
Press <F2> during POST to enter the system setup program.
4
Navigate to the security tab and enter the service tag in the
field.
Set Service Tag
System Board 99
100 System Board
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