ALIENWARE DESKTOP 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.
CONTENTS CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR DESKTOP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Before Setting Up Your Desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Connect the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Connect the Keyboard and Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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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. The Alienware technicians who have crafted your computer have made certain that your high-performance computer is properly optimized and performs to its fullest potential. We build computers with a single unwavering purpose: Build It As If It Were Your Own.
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CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR DESKTOP CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR DESKTOP CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR DESKTOP 7
Before Setting Up Your Desktop Product Documentation and Media Congratulations on the purchase of your Alienware Aurora! The documentation that ships with your Alienware desktop is designed to provide answers to many of the questions that may arise as you explore your new desktop’s capabilities. You may see the documentation for technical information or general use as required to answer questions in the future, or aid you in finding answers and solutions.
Connect the Display Connect the display using the connector available on the graphics card in the expansion card slot on your computer. You can purchase the DVI-to-VGA adapter, HDMI-to-DVI adapter, and additional HDMI or DVI cables at www.dell.com. Use the appropriate cable based on the connectors available on your computer and display. See the following table to identify the connectors on your computer and display.
Connect the Keyboard and Mouse 10 CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR DESKTOP Connect the Network Cable (Optional)
Connect the Power Cable WARNING: The 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 fire or equipment damage. Press the Power Button Press the power button on the top of the computer.
Set Up Microsoft Windows Your computer is preconfigured with the Microsoft Windows operating system. To set up Windows for the first time, follow the instructions on the screen. These steps are mandatory and may take some time to complete. The Windows setup screens will take you through several procedures including accepting license agreements, setting preferences, and setting up an Internet connection.
Setting Up Your Internet Connection ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. Contact your ISP for offerings 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.
14 CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR DESKTOP
CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR DESKTOP CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR DESKTOP This chapter provides information about your new desktop to familiarize you with its various features, and to get you up and running quickly.
Front View Features 1 2 3 4 5 16 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR DESKTOP 6 1 Alienhead — Lowers the drive panel when pressed. The drive panel can also be lowered when the computer is turned off. 2 Optical drive — Plays or records CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs. 3 Optical-drive bay — Can support additional optical drive. 4 Media Card Reader/Optical-drive bay — Can support an optional Media Card Reader or an additional optical drive.
Back View Features 1 2 1 Security cable slot — Attaches a commercially available security cable to the computer. NOTE: Before you buy a security cable, ensure that it fits into the security cable slot on your computer. 2 Latch — Closes or opens the security cable slot and locks or unlocks the release panel. Slide the latch to the right to open the security cable slot and to unlock the release panel. 3 Back panel connectors — Connect USB, audio, and other devices into the appropriate connectors.
Back Light Button Press the back light button to turn on the light to view the back panel connectors. This light automatically turns off after a few seconds.
Back Panel Connectors 1 1 Optical S/PDIF connector — Connects to amplifiers, speakers, or TVs for digital audio output through optical digital cables. This format carries an audio signal without going through an analog audio conversion process. 2 eSATA connector — Connects to eSATA compatible storage devices such as external hard drives or optical drives. 3 USB 2.0 connectors (6) — Connect to USB devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player. 4 USB 3.
Connecting External Speakers Your Alienware desktop has five integrated audio out connectors and one audio in connector. The audio out connectors deliver quality sound and support 7.1 surround audio. You can connect the audio input connector from a home stereo or speaker system for a heightened gaming and media experience. NOTE: On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.
Top View Features Accessing the Top Panel Connectors 1 Press the top panel downwards to access the top panel connectors.
Top Panel Connectors 1 22 2 3 4 5 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR DESKTOP 1 Headphone connector — Connects to headphones. NOTE: To connect to a powered speaker or sound system, use the audio out connector or one of the S/PDIF connectors at the back of your computer. 2 Microphone connector — Connects to a microphone or inputs signal for use with audio programs. 3 USB 3.0 connector — Provides faster data transmission between your computer and USB devices.
CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR DESKTOP CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR DESKTOP CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR DESKTOP 23
Alienware Command Center Working With RAID The 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. A Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) is a disk storage configuration that increases performance or data redundancy.
RAID Level 0 CAUTION: RAID level 0 provides no redundancy. Therefore, a failure of one drive results in the loss of all data. Perform regular backups to protect your data. RAID level 0 uses data striping to provide a high data access rate. Data striping writes consecutive segments, or stripes, of data sequentially across the physical drive(s) to create a large virtual drive. This allows one of the drives to read data while the other drive is searching for and reading the next block.
Optimizing Performance Configuring the BIOS Your computer has been configured to operate optimally across a wide range of applications. Depending on the configuration you purchased, the computer may have been overclocked at the factory to achieve maximum performance in resource intensive applications including gaming and multimedia development. System Setup CAUTION: Technical support verifies the full functionality of the computer at the factory configured settings.
Entering System Setup 1. Turn on (or restart) your desktop. 2. 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 in even intervals until the System Setup screen appears. While the desktop is booting, press immediately before the operating system logo appears to access the BIOS Setup Utility.
Main CPU Information CPU Type CPU ID CPU Speed Cache L2 Cache L3 Displays the processor type. Displays the processor identification code. Displays the processor speed. Displays the processor L2 cache size. Displays the processor L3 cache size. Advanced — Standard CMOS Features System Date Displays current date. (mm:dd:yy) System Time Displays the current time. (hh:mm:ss) Device Information SATA Port0 Displays the SATA 0 drive integrated in the computer.
Advanced — CPU Configuration Hyper-threading If disabled only one thread per enabled core is Technology active. XD Bit Capability Enable XD Bit Capability to allow the processor to distinguish between the bits of code that can be executed and the ones that cannot be executed. Intel(R) Speedstep If enabled, the processor clock speed and core tech voltage are adjusted dynamically based on the processor load. Intel(R) C-State Tech If enabled, C-State: Processor idle is set to C2/C3/C4.
Advanced — Frequency/Voltage Control Advance DRAM Allows you to access the Advance DRAM Configuration Configuration submenu. Overclock Configuration Allows you to access the Overclock Configuration submenu. Overvoltage Allows you to access the Overvoltage Configuration Configuration submenu. Load Level 1 Defaults Allows you to load Level 1 default setting. NOTE: This setting may not be available for some processors. Load Level 2 Defaults Allows you to load Level 2 default setting.
Advance DRAM Configuration Submenu tRCD Displays timing of RAS to CAS delay (editable in Manual Mode). tRP Displays timing of RAS Precharge (editable in Manual Mode). tRAS Displays timing of Row Address Strobe (editable in Manual Mode). tRFC Displays timing of Refresh to Archive/Refresh cycle time (editable in Manual Mode). tWR Displays timing of Write Recover (editable in Manual Mode). tWTR Displays Write to Read Delay (editable in Manual Mode). tRRD Displays RAS to RAS delay (editable in Manual Mode).
Overvoltage Configuration Submenu DDR3 Memory Voltage Adjusts the DDR3 Memory Voltage. Dynamic CPU VCore Offset Allows you to change the Processor Core Voltage Offset value. Adjust DDR_VREF_DQ_A Adjusts the DDR3 Data VREF – Channel A. Adjust DDR_VREF_DQ_B Adjusts the DDR3 Data VREF – Channel B. Adjust DDR_VREF_CA_A Adjusts the DDR3 Address VREF – Channel A. Adjust DDR_VREF_CA_B Adjusts the DDR3 Address VREF – Channel B.
CHAPTER 5: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS This chapter provides guidelines and instructions for increasing the processing power and storage capacity, by upgrading equipment. You can purchase components for your desktop at www.dell.com or www.alienware.com. NOTE: See the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals for installation instructions of all serviceable components.
Before You Begin This section provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your desktop. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist: • • • You have performed the steps in “Turning Off Your Desktop” and “Before Working Inside Your Desktop” in this section. You have read the safety information that shipped with your desktop. A component can be replaced or—if purchased separately—installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.
Before Working Inside Your Desktop 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.
Removing and Replacing the Side Panel CAUTION: Before removing the side panel, disconnect the power cable from your desktop. To remove the side panel: 1. 1 Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 34. NOTE: Ensure that you remove the security cable from the security cable slot (if applicable). 2. Slide the latch to the right to unlock the release panel. 3. Lift the release panel to open the side panel. 4. Place the side panel in a secure location.
Inside View of Your Computer Removing and Replacing Memory Module(s) To remove the memory module(s): 1. 2. Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 34. Remove the side panel (see “Removing and Replacing the Side Panel“ on page 36). 3. Locate the memory module connectors on the system board (see “Inside View of Your Computer“ on page 37). 3 2 1 CAUTION: The memory module(s) may become very hot during normal operation. Allow the memory module(s) to cool before touching them.
To replace memory module(s): 1. 2. Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 34. Align the notch on the bottom of the memory module with the tab on the memory module connector.
3. Insert the memory module into the memory module connector until the memory module snaps into position. If you insert the memory module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the memory module. NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot. 4. Replace the side panel (see “Removing and Replacing the Side Panel“ on page 36). 5. Connect the power cable, and all the external peripherals to the computer. 6. Turn on the computer.
2 1 2 1 1 power cable 2 data cable 4. Press the release tabs together and slide the hard drive out of the hard drive cage. 1 hard drive 2 release tabs (2) 5. Remove the hard drive out of the hard-drive bracket (if applicable).
To replace a hard drive: 1 1. 2. 2 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 1 hard drive 2 Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 34. See the documentation that shipped with your new hard drive to verify that it is configured for your computer. Snap the new hard-drive bracket on to the new hard drive (if applicable). Slide the new hard drive into the hard-drive cage until the release tabs snap into place. Connect the power and data cables (if applicable).
Removing and Replacing Expansion Card(s) To remove a card: 1. Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 34. 2. Remove the side panel (see “Removing and Replacing the Side Panel“ on page 36). 3. Press the shroud button and rotate the shroud away from the computer. 2 4. Locate the expansion card on the system board (see “Inside View of Your Computer“ on page 37). 5. Disconnect any cables connected to the card (if applicable). 6. Remove the screw that secures the card to the chassis. 7.
To replace a card: 1. 2. 3. 4. Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 34. Remove the filler bracket to create a card-slot opening (if applicable). Align the card with the slot on the connector. Place the card in the connector and press down firmly. Ensure that the card is firmly seated in the slot. If you are installing a PCI Express Card into the x16 connector, press the securing tab and place the card in the connector. 1 5.
44 CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS
CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING 45
Basic Hints and Tips When troubleshooting your computer, remember the following safety guidelines: • • • • The computer does not turn on: Is your computer securely plugged into a working electrical outlet? If plugged into a power strip, ensure that the strip is 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.
Software Diagnostic Tools Pre-Boot System Assessment (PSA) The computer runs the Pre-boot System Assessment (PSA), a series of initial tests for the system board, keyboard, display, memory, hard drive, and so on. To invoke PSA: 1. Turn on (or restart) your desktop. 2. When the Alienware logo appears, press immediately to access the Boot Menu.
Alienware Diagnostics If you experience a problem with your Alienware desktop, run the Alienware Diagnostics before you contact Alienware for technical assistance. It is recommended that you print these procedures before you begin. NOTE: Back up all data before initiating a system recovery. NOTE: The Resource DVD contains drivers for your computer. You can also download the latest drivers and software for your computer from support.dell.com.
Computer Problems Beep Code Possible Problem The computer fails the POST One Possible motherboard failure — BIOS ROM checksum failure The Power On Self Test (POST) ensures that all hardware is working properly before starting the remainder of the boot process. If the computer passes the POST, the computer continues to start normally. However, if the computer fails the POST, the computer emits a series of beeps during start‑up.
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 off, then restart your computer. A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly End the program: 1. 2. Press simultaneously.
Other software problems Back up your files immediately Use a virus-scanning program to check the hard drive, or CDs Save and close any open files or programs and shut down your computer through the Start menu. Scan the computer for spyware: If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently receive popup advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware.
Hard Drive Problems NOTE: For maximum performance of hard drive(s), connect the SATA 3.0 (6Gb/s) compatible hard drive(s) to the SATA 3.0 (6Gb/s) port(s) on the system board. Allow the computer to cool before turning it on Memory Memory errors detected on start up • • A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on. Check memory modules for correct seating and orientation.
Power When you press the power button, the computer does not turn on • • • • If the computer is connected into a surge protector or UPS, ensure that the surge protector or UPS is securely connected to an electrical outlet, is switched on and is working correctly. Ensure that the electrical outlet is working properly by testing another device such as a radio or lamp that is known to be working. If the electrical outlet is not working, contact an electrician or your power company for further assistance.
54 CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING
CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY CHAPTER 6: SYSTEM RECOVERY Your computer has the following system recovery options: • Operating System Reinstallation DVD — Contains operating system installation media. • AlienRespawn — Your computer is pre-installed with AlienRespawn (see “AlienRespawn” on page 56). • Dell DataSafe Online — Dell DataSafe Online is an online data backup service (see “Dell DataSafe Online Backup” on page 57). • System Drivers — You can download the latest drivers for your computer from support.
AlienRespawn CAUTION: Using AlienRespawn permanently removes any programs or drivers installed after you received your computer. Create backup media of applications you need to install on your computer before using AlienRespawn. Use AlienRespawn only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem. CAUTION: Although AlienRespawn is designed to preserve the data files on your computer, it is recommended that you backup your data files before using AlienRespawn.
Upgrading to AlienRespawn Professional Dell DataSafe Online Backup (Optional) AlienRespawn provides additional features that allow you to: • Backup and restore your computer based on file types • Backup files to a local storage device • Schedule automated backups To upgrade to AlienRespawn Professional: 1. Double-click the AlienRespawn icon in the notification area of your desktop. 2. Click Upgrade Now! 3. Follow the instructions on the screen.
58 CHAPTER 6: SYSTEM RECOVERY
CHAPTER 8: SPECIFICATIONS This chapter provides specifications of your desktop.
Computer Model Processor and System Chipset Alienware Aurora-R3 Processor Intel Core i7 Intel Core i5 Intel Core i3 L2 cache 256 KB L3 cache up to 8 MB System chipset Intel P67 DMI speed 2.5 GT/s DRAM bus width 64 bits Processor address bus width 64 bits Data bus bandwidth up to 6.4 GT/s RAID support (internal SATA drives only) RAID 0 RAID 1 RAID 1+0 BIOS chip (NVRAM) 32 MB Dimensions Height (with top vents open) 432 mm (17 inches) Width 249 mm (9.
Top Panel Connectors Memory Connectors four internally-accessible DDR3 DIMM sockets Capacities 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB 1333 MHz, 1600 MHz, and 1866 MHz USB one 4-pin USB 3.0-compliant connector two 4-pin USB 2.
Computer Environment Expansion Bus PCI Express x1: Temperature ranges: Connectors two Operating 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F) Connector size 36-pin connectors Storage –10°C to 45°C (14°F to 113°F) Relative humidity (maximum) 20% to 80% (noncondensing) PCI Express x16: Connectors two Connector size 164 pins connectors Audio Type integrated 7.
APPENDIX A: GENERAL AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Computer Setup • • • • • • • • • • Read all instructions marked on the product and in the documentation before operating your computer. Retain all safety and operating instructions. Never use this product near water or a heat source. Only set-up the computer on a stable work surface. Only operate the computer using the power source type indicated on the rating label. Never block or cover any openings or fans in the computer case.
General Safety Precautions • • Mechanical Shock: Your computer should never be subjected to severe mechanical shocks. Careless handling of your computer may cause damage. Mechanical Shock is not covered by the warranty. Electrical Shock: If you do not open up your computer, there is nothing to worry about. Your computer protects itself against most irregularities in the power source. When Should You Contact Alienware? • • • • The power cable or plug is damaged.
APPENDIX B: CONTACTING ALIENWARE For customers in the United States/Canada, call 1-800-ALIENWARE. Websites You can learn about Alienware products and services on the following websites: www.dell.com www.dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) www.dell.com/jp (Japan only) www.euro.dell.com (Europe only) www.dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean countries) www.dell.ca (Canada only) Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options.
Information for NOM, or Official Mexican Standard (Only for Mexico) The following information is provided in the device(s) described in this document in accordance with the requirements of the Official Mexican Standard (NOM): Importer: Dell México S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - Flat 11° Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F. Regulatory Regulatory Model Number Type Voltage Frequency Output Intensity D01M 100-240V AC 50-60 Hz 10.0 A/7.