alienware-aurora owner's manual en-us

8/11/2019 Alienware-Aurora Owner's Manual en-us

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e contents herein are s

2010 Dell Inc. All rights

Reproduction of these mwritten permission of De

Trademarks used in this mtrademarks or registered to Dell Inc; Microsoft, Winor registered trademarksor other countries;Inteltrademarks o Intel Corpotrademark o the Blu-rayowned by Bluetooth SIG,

Other trademarks and trathe entities claiming the any proprietary interest i

Regulatory Model: D0IM

P/N JYTRG Rev. A00

Notes, Cautions, and Warnings

NOTE:A NOTE indicates important inormation that helps you make betteruse o your computer.

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

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


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CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: SET TING UP YOUR DESKTOP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Before Setting Up Your Desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Connect the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Connect the Keyboard and Mouse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Connect the Network Cable ( Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Connect the Power Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Press the Power Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Set Up Microsoft Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Connect to the Internet (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR DESKTOP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Front View Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Back View Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Top View Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR DESKTOP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23A l i e n w a r e C o m m a n d C e n t e r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 4Working With RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24Optimizing Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Confguring the BIOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

CHAPTERBeReInsReReRe

CHAPTERBaBaSo

CHAPTERDe

CHAPTER

APPEND

APPEND

APPENDNV


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4


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Dear Valu

Welcomegrowing

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We havethe high

your comperorma

We invitewith us, sor concerhope thabuilding

Sincerely

Alienwar


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6


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CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR DESKTOP

CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR DESKTOP


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8 CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR DESKTOP

Product Document

e documentation thatprovide answers to manynew desktops capabilitiegeneral use as required tanswers and solutions. some sections o the dotasks. As always, our tech

Placing Your Deskt

WARNING: Do notvent. If all or partadequate ventilatlocation or in anywater. Be careful n

When placing your deskto

It is placed on a sura

e power and other and a wall or any ot

Nothing obstructs air

e desktop has enou

storage drives can be

Before Setting Up Your DesktopCongratulations on the purchase of your AlienwareAurora!

Read all saety and setup instructions beore connecting your new desktop. Beginby careully opening the box and removing all components that were shipped toyou. Beore setting up your desktop or components, be sure to inspect all itemsor any physical damage that may have occurred during shipment.

Beore setting up your desktop or components, see the included invoice to veriythat all items ordered are present. Report any missing components to customerservice within 5 days o receiving the shipment. Anything reported missing aterthe frst 5 days o receiving a shipment will not be honored. Some o the mostcommon items to check or include:

Computer

Microsot CD-key located at the back o the desktop

Keyboard (i ordered)

Mouse (i ordered)

Multimedia speakers and sub-wooer (i ordered)

Joystick controllers (i ordered)

You may also need a small athead and/or a Phillips head screwdriver orconnecting peripheral cables to the desktop.


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ConnectType

DVI-to-D(DVI cab

HDMI-to(HDMI c

HDMI-to

(HDMI-tadaptercable)

Connect the DisplayConnect the display using the connector available on the graphics card on yourcomputer.

NOTE:A DVI or HDMI connector may be available on the graphics card youpurchased.

You can purchase the DVI-to-VGA adapter, HDMI-to-DVI adapter, and additionalHDMI or DVI cables at www.dell.com .

Use the appropriate cable based on the connectors available on your computerand display. See the ollowing table to identiy the connectors on your computerand display.


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Connect the Net

Connect the Keyboard and Mouse


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Press Press the

Connect the Power CableWARNING: e power connectors and power strips vary among countries.Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to apower strip or electrical outlet may cause fre or equipment damage.


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Setting Up a Wirele

NOTE: To set up yowith your router.

Beore you can use your wwireless router.

To set up your connection

Save and close any op1.

Click2. Start Cont

In the search box, typ3. CenterConnect to

Follow the instruction4.

Set Up Microsoft WindowsCAUTION: Do not interrupt the operating systems setup process. Doingso may render your desktop unusable.

Your computer is preconfgured with the operating system settings that youselected while ordering your computer. To confgure the remaining settings,ollow the instructions on the screen.

NOTE: For optimal perormance o your computer, it is recommended thatyou download and install the latest BIOS and drivers or your computeravailable at support.dell.com.

NOTE: For more inormation on the operating system and eatures, seesupport.dell.com/MyNewDell.

Connect to the Internet (Optional)

Setting Up a Wired ConnectionI you are using a dial-up connection, connect the telephone line to theexternal USB modem (optional) and to the telephone wall jack beore you setup your Internet connection.

I you are using a DSL or cable/satellite modem connection, contact your ISPor cellular telephone service or setup instructions.

To complete setting up your wired Internet connection, ollow the instructions inSetting Up Your Internet Connection on page 13.


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Setting Up Your Internet Connection

ISPs and ISP oerings vary by country. Contact your ISP or oerings available inyour country.

I you cannot connect to the Internet but have successully connected in the past,the Internet Service Provider (ISP) might have a service outage. Contact your ISPto check the service status, or try connecting again later.

Have your ISP inormation ready. I you do not have an ISP, the Connect to theInternetwizard can help you get one.

To set up your Internet connection:

Save and close any open fles, and exit any open programs.1.

Click2. Start Control Panel.

In the search box, type3. network, and then click Network and SharingCenterSet up a new connection or NetworkConnect to the Internet.

e Connect to the Internetwindow appears.

NOTE: I you do not know which type o connection to select, click Help mechooseor contact your ISP.

Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup inormation4.provided by your ISP to complete the setup.


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is chapits variou

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOWYOUR DESKTOP

CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR DESKTOP


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16 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR DESKTOP

1 Hard drive activity lcomputer reads or w

CAUTION: Tothe hard driv

2 Alienhead Lowersalso be lowered whe

3 Optical drivePlay

4 Optical drive bays (

5 Drive panel Cover

NOTE:e drive pan

6 Optical drive eject b

Front View Features

1

4

3

2

6

5


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1 Secthe

NOTcab

2 Latcreleto u

3 Bac

appFor

4 ExpPCI

5 Pow

6 Dia

7 Dia

Back View Features

1

2

4

5

6 7

3


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Back Light ButtonPress the back light button to turn on the light to view the back panel connectors.is light automatically turns o ater a ew seconds.

NOTE: In Alienware Aurora Standard, the back light will unction onlywhen the computer is turned on. In Alienware Aurora ALX, the back lightwill unction even when the computer is turned o, as the light is poweredby internal batteries.


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Back Panel Connectors

7

6

53

2

1

4

NFo

1 or dan a(ava

2 such

3

keyb4 Aud

NOTSpea

5 broa

6 devic

7 or dan a

(ava


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Connecting External Speakers

Your Alienware desktop has fve integrated audio out connectors and oneaudio in connector. e audio out connectors deliver quality sound and support7.1 surround audio. You can connect the audio input connector rom a home stereoor speaker system or a heightened gaming and media experience.

NOTE: On computers with a sound card, use the connector on the card.

1 2 3

56 4

1 Side L/R surrouspeakers.

2 Rear L/R surrouspeakers.

3 Center/subwoosubwooer.

4 Line-in connectas a microphone, cas

5 Front L/R line-o

6 Microphone coninput into a sound o


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Top View Features

Accessing the Top Panel Connectors

Press the top panel downwards to access the top panel connectors.

1 Top

T P l C


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Top Panel Connectors

5

21

34

1 Headphone con

NOTE:To connect toconnector or one o tALX only) at the back

2 Microphone coninput into a sound o

3

IEEE 1394 connedevices such as digit

4 Power buttono the button rim ind

O the compureceiving power.

Solid white the

Blinking white

e color indicating tsotware. For inorma

5 USB 2.0 conneckeyboard, printer, ext


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CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR DESKTOPCHAPTER 4: USING YOUR DESKTOP

Ali C d C t W ki With RA


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24 CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR DESKTOP

Alienware Command Centere Alienware Command Center gives you access to Alienwares exclusivesotware and is a continuously upgradable control panel. As Alienware releasesnew programs, they download directly into the Command Center allowing you tobuild a library o system management, optimization, and customization tools.

To access the Command Center, click Start All Programs AlienwareCommand CenterCommand Center.

AlienFX

AlienFX lets you customize the lighting behavior on your computer. You canassign lighting behaviors to events like receiving new e-mail, computer goinginto the sleep mode, and opening a new application.

AlienFusion

AlienFusion gives you access to your Alienware computers power managementcontrols to help increase energy efciency.

ermal Controls

I you have vents present on top o your computer, use thermal controls to controlthe thermal and venting capabilities o your computer by changing the an speed

and behavior o the vents.

Working With RAA redundant array o indthat increases perormandiscussed in this section.

RAID level 0 is recom

RAID level 1 is recommintegrity.



NOTE: RAID requrequired varies de

RAID L l 0 RAID L


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RAID Level 0

CAUTION: RAID level 0 provides no redundancy. ereore, a ailureof one drive results in the loss of all data. Perform regular backups toprotect your data.

RAID level 0 uses data striping to provide a high data access rate. Data stripingwrites consecutive segments, or stripes, o data sequentially across the physicaldrive(s) to create a large virtual drive. is allows one o the drives to read datawhile the other drive is searching or and reading the next block.

RAID 0 uses the ull storage capacities o both drives. For example, two 2 GB harddrives combine to provide 4 GB o hard drive space on which to store data.

NOTE: In a RAID 0 confguration, the size o the confguration is equal tothe size o the smallest drive multiplied by the number o drives in theconfguration.

RAID L

RAID leveto the prdrive in redundan

I a drivedrive. A rdrive.

Nth

RAID Level 5 RAID Level 10


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RAID Level 5

RAID level 5 uses data parity. RAID level 5 stripes both data and parity inormationacross three or more drives. It provides data striping at the byte level and alsostripe error correction inormation (rotating parity array). is results in excellentperormance and good ault tolerance.

I a drive ailure occurs, subsequent read and write operations are directed to theother surviving drives. A replacement drive can then be rebuilt using the datarom the surviving drives. Since data is duplicated on the primary and additionaldrives, our 120 GB collectively have a maximum o 360 GB on which to storedata.

A1

B1

C1

Dp

A2

B2

Cp

D1

A3

Bp

C2

D2

Ap

B3

C3

D3

RAID Level 10

A RAID 10 array combinesdata protection (redundadrives and mirroring that

I a drive ailure occurs, suother surviving drives. Arom the surviving drivesadditional drives, our 120to store data.

Optimizing Performance Using S


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Optimizing PerformanceYour computer has been confgured to operate optimally across a wide rangeo applications. Depending on the confguration you purchased, the computermay have been overclocked at the actory to achieve maximum perormance inresource intensive applications including gaming and multimedia development.

CAUTION: Technical support verifes the ull unctionality o thecomputer at the actory confgured settings. Alienware does notprovide technical support for any hardware or software issues arisingrom operating the computer beyond the actory confgured settings.

Performance TuningUsing System Setup

CAUTION: It is not recommended to operate the processor or othersystem components beyond the preset settings in the BIOS. Doing somay cause system instability, reduced component operating life, orpermanent component damage.

For computers with the IntelCorei7 Extreme Edition processor, the BIOS haspreset overclocking levels that allow you to easily overclock your computer.

For more inormation, see Confguring the BIOS on page 28.

Using S

Your comon Aurorperorma

For more

Confguring the BIOS Entering System Setu


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Confguring the BIOS

System Setup

e System Setup options allow you to:

Change the system confguration inormation ater you add, change, orremove any hardware in your desktop.

Set or change a user-selectable option.

View the amount o memory installed.

Set the type o hard drive installed.

Beore you use System Setup, it is recommended that you write down the currentSystem Setup inormation or uture reerence.

CAUTION: Do not change the settings in System Setup unless you arean expert computer user. Certain changes can cause your computer towork incorrectly.

Entering System Setu

Turn on (or restart) yo1.

NOTE:Keyboard aor extended periorelease in ev

While the desktop is b2.system logo appears

NOTE: I an error when the prompt

NOTE:I you wait toto wait until you syour desktop and t

System Setup Screens

e BIOS Setup Utilitydior your desktop.

Key unctions appear at keys and their unctions w

System Setup Options System


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System Setup Options

NOTE: e items listed in this section may or may not appear exactly aslisted depending on your computer model and installed devices.

NOTE: For the updated system setup inormation, see the Service Manualat support.dell.com/manuals.

System Information

Product Name Displays the product name.

BIOS Version Displays the BIOS version number and date

inormation.Service Tag Displays the service tag o the computer.

Asset Tag Displays the asset tag o the computer.

Memory Installed Displays the amount o memory installed onthe computer.

Memory Available Displays the amount o memory available onthe computer.

Memory Technology Displays the type o memory technologyused.

Memory Speed Displays the memory speed.

CPU ID/u Code ID Displays the processor type.

CPU Speed Displays the processor speed.

System

Curren

Cache

Cache (availabAurora A

Standar

System

System

SATA 1

SATA 2

SATA 3

SATA 4

SATA 5

SATA 6

Standard CMOS Features CPUConfguration


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Standard CMOS Features

Wait for F1 IfErrors

I enabled, the system will HALT during bootto display system errors.

Advanced BIOS Features

NumLock Status Select power-on state or num-lock.

ACPI APIC support Include ACPI APIC table pointer to RSDTpointer list.

OptionROM DisplayScreen

Allows you to enable or disable the RAIDOption ROM screen during POST.

Boot Confguration Features

1st Boot Device Displays the frst boot device.

2nd Boot Device Displays the second boot device.

Hard Disk Drives Sets the hard drive boot priority. e itemsdisplayed are dynamically updated accordingto the hard drives detected.

CD/DVD Drives Sets the CD/DVD drive boot priority.

CPU Confguration

XD Bit Capability

IntelSpeedstept

IntelC State Tech

IntelHT Technolo

(available on Aurora-R2

Integrated Devices Integrat


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Integrated Devices

USB Functions Allows you to enable or disable theintegrated USB controller.

HD Audio Controller Allows you to enable or disable theintegrated audio controller.

Onboard IEEE1394 Controller Allows you to enable or disable theonboard IEEE 1394 controller.

LAN1 BCM5784 Device(available on Aurora and Aurora ALXonly)/Onboard LAN Controller

(available on Aurora-R2 only)

Allows you to enable or disable theonboard LAN controller.

LAN1 Option ROM(available on Aurora and Aurora ALXonly)/Onboard LAN Boot ROM(available on Aurora-R2 only)

Allows you to enable and disable thenetwork controllers boot option.

SiL3132 E-Sata Device(available on Aurora and Aurora ALXonly)/JMicron-362 E-SATA Device(available on Aurora-R2 only)

Allows you to enable and disable thee-SATA controller.

Integrat

Confgu(availabonly)/SATA M(availab

AHCI C

Power M

Suspen

AC Rec

Remote(availabonly)

Auto P

Frequency/Voltage Control Advance DRAM Confgu


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Frequency/Voltage Control

CPU Speed Displays the current processor speed.

Memory Speed Displays the current memory speed.

Current QPI Speed Displays current QPI speed.

QPI Frequency Allows you to change the QPIrequency.

Memory Ratio Allows you to change the memoryratio.

Core (Non-Turbo) Ratio Displays the ratio between theprocessor core clock and the FSB

requency.Advance DRAM Confguration Allows you to access the Advance

DRAM Confguration submenu

Overclock Confguration Allows you to access the OverclockConfguration submenu

Overvoltage Confguration Allows you to access the OvervoltageConfguration submenu

Load Level1 OC Setting Allows you to restore the Level 1overclocking settings that wereshipped rom the actory (onlydisplayed with an XE processor).

Advance DRAM Confgu

Memory-Z

Advanced Memory Se

tCL

tRCD

tRP

tRAS

tRFC

tWR

tWTR

OvercloAdvance DRAM Confguration Submenu


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Overclo

Turbo Overri

Turbo Overri

Overvol

CPU Te

VCore

Dynami

DDR3 M

IOH Vo

QPI an

Advance DRAM Confguration Submenu

tRRD Displays RAS to RAS delay (editable inManual Mode).

tRTP Displays Read to Precharge CommandDelay (editable in Manual Mode).

1T/2T Timing Displays the Command Rate (editablein Manual Mode).

Overclock Confguration Submenu

Adjust CPU BClk (MHz) Allows you to adjust BClk o processor.

Spread Spectrum Enable/Disable Spread SpectrumModulation.

Adjust PCI Frequency (MHz)(available on Aurora and Aurora ALXonly)

Allows you to adjust PCI requency.

Adjust PCI-E Frequency (MHz) Allows you to adjust PCI-E requency.

Intel TurboMode tech I enabled, allows processor to run ataster requencies than marked.

[1-4] Core CPU Turbo RatioLimit(available on Aurora and Aurora ALXonly)

Limit ratio or cores 1-4(XE processors only).

BIOS Security Features


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BIOS Security Features

Change Supervisor Password Allows you to change the supervisorpassword.

Change User Password Allows you to change the userpassword. You cannot use the userpassword to enter the BIOS setup,during POST.

Exit

Exit Options Provides options to Save Changesand Exit, Discard Changes and Exit,

Load Optimal Deaults, and DiscardChanges.


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is chap

power ancompone

Ninro

CHAPTER 5: INSTALLING ADDITIONALOR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

CHAPTER 5: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL

OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

Before You Begin Turning O Your De


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36 CHAPTER 5: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS

gis section provides procedures or removing and installing the components inyour desktop. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the ollowingconditions exist:

You have perormed the steps in Turning O Your Desktop and BeoreWorking Inside Your Desktop in this section.

You have read the saety inormation that shipped with your desktop.

A component can be replaced ori purchased separatelyinstalled byperorming the removal procedure in reverse order.

e procedures in this section may require the ollowing tools:

Small at-blade screwdriverPhillips screwdriver

BIOS executable update program available at support.dell.com

g

CAUTION: To avoiopen programs be

Save and close all ope1.

Click2. Start Shut e desktop turns o

Ensure that the deskt3.desktop and attacheddown your operating 8 to 10 seconds until

CABefore Working Inside Your Desktop


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CAputatathyoan

To avoidworking i

Ensu1.being

Turn2.

CAyo

Disco3.

Disco4.outle

Press5.

Use the ollowing saety guidelines to help protect your desktop rom potentialdamage and to help to ensure your own personal saety.

WARNING: Before working inside your desktop, read the safety informationin the SAFETY, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND REGULATORY INFORMATIONthat shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practicesinformation, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

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

CAUTION: Only a certifed service technician should perorm repairs onyour desktop. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell isnot covered by your warranty.

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

Removing and Replacing the Side Panel


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g p gCAUTION: Before removing the side panel, disconnect the power cablefrom your desktop.

To remove the side panel:

Follow the instructions in Beore You Begin on page1. 36.

NOTE:Ensure that you remove the security cable rom the security cableslot (i applicable).

Slide the latch to the right to unlock the release panel.2.

Lit the release panel to open the side panel.3.

Place the side panel in a secure location.4.

NOTE:eater lighting (available only on Alienware Aurora ALX) turns onautomatically when the side panel is removed. eater lighting is poweredby internal batteries.

To replace the side panel, push the side panel against the side o the computeruntil it locks into place.

1

32

1 release panel

3 latch

Inside View of Your Computer Remo


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12

3

4

1 memory module(s) 2 graphics cards (2)

3 optical drives (3) 4 hard drives (4)

To remov

Follo1.

Rem2.page

Loca3.View

CAop

Ni

Spre4.conn

Lit t5.modorth

To replace memory module(s):


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Aurora-R2

Recommended memory c

Type

1066 MHz and I333 MHz

Aurora/Aurora ALX

Recommended memory confguration:

Type Slots

1066 MHz and I333 MHz DDR3 Slots 1 , 3 , and 5 or slots 1 6

1600 MHz XMP Slots 1, 3, and 5


Align the notch on the bottom o the memory module with the tab on the2

Inser3.mem


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Align the notch on the bottom o the memory module with the tab on the2.memory module connector.

4

3

2

1

1 memory module connector 2 tab

3 notch 4 memory module

CAUTION: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the memorymodule straight down into the memory module connector while youapply equal force to each end of the memory module.

I youcuto

Nno

Repla4.pageConn5.Turn6.

As the cupdates

installedClick Sta

Press the release tab4.drive cage.

Removing and Replacing Hard Drive(s)


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g

2

1

1 hard drive

To remove the hard drive(s):


Remove the side panel (see Removing and Replacing the Side Panel2.on page 38).

Disconnect the power and data cable rom the hard drive (i applicable).3.2

1

1 power cable 2 data cable

To replacRemove the hard drive out o the hard-drive bracket (i applicable).5.


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Follo1.

See t2.it is c

Snap3.

Slide4.into

Conn5.

Repla6.page

Reco7.

Turn8.

1

2

1 hard drive 2 hard-drive bracket

Locate the expansion4.Computer on page 3

Removing and Replacing Expansion Card(s)


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Disconnect any cable5.

Remove the screw th6.

Remove the card.7.

For a PCI Expressout o its connect

For a PCI Expressas you grasp the the connector.

2

3

1 PCI Express x16 card

3 connector

NOTE: I you are n

To remove a card:


Removethe side panel (see Removing and Replacing the Side Panel on2.page 38).

Press the shroud button and rotate the shroud away rom the computer.3.

1

2

1 shroud 2 shroud button

Conn5.For inth t

card-slot opening.

T l d


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that

Repla6.

Push7.

Repla8.page

Reco9.

Turn10.

To replace a card:


Remove the fller bracket to create a card-slot opening (i applicable).2.

Align the card with the slot on the connector.3.

Place the card in the connector and press down frmly. Ensure that the card4.is frmly seated in the slot.

I you are installing a PCI Express Card into the x16 connector, press thesecuring tab and place the card in the connector.

3

2

1

1 PCI Express x16 card 2 securing tab

3 connector


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CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTINGCHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING

When troubleshooting your

Beore touching any o

Basic Hints and Tips


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48 CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING

Beore touching any ounpainted portion o electricity, which cou

Turn o your comput

Disconnect any perip

Tings to check before trou

Ensure that the powepower outlet. Ensure

Ensure that the UPS o

I your peripheral devworking, ensure that

I any computer compbegan, check to see iproperly.

I an error message amessage prior to calland resolving your iss

I an error occurs in a

e computer does not turn on: Is your computer securely plugged into aworking electrical outlet? I plugged into a power strip, ensure that the stripis working.

Connections: Check all the cables to ensure that there are no looseconnections anywhere.

Power Savings: Ensure that your computer is not in hibernate or standbymode by pressing the power button or less than 4 seconds. e powerstatus light will ade rom blinking white to o while in standby mode; inhibernate mode it will be o.

Backup and General MaintenanceAlways backup your important data on a regular basis and keep copieso your operating system and sotware sae. Do not orget to note theserial numbers i you are storing them outside o their original cases orexample in a CD wallet.

Run maintenance programs as oten as you can. You may schedule theseprograms to run at times when you are not using your computer. You canuse those provided with your operating system, or buy more powerul,dedicated programs to do so.

Write down your passwords and keep them sae (away rom your computer).is is especially important i you choose to password-protect yourcomputers BIOS and operating system.

Document vital settings such as network, dialup, mail and Internet settings.

I the PSscreen.Software Diagnostic Tools


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Do youtake a(Recomm

Press


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the system setup

When the boot device3.press .

Select4. Boot from CD-

Select5. Alienware Diagare listed, select the v

When the Alienware 6.want to run.

NOTE: Write downthey appear and o

Ater all tests have co7.Alienware Diagnostic

Remove your8. ResourcAlienware Diagnostic

I you experience a problem with your Alienware desktop, run the AlienwareDiagnostics.

NOTE: Back up all data beore initiating a system recovery.

NOTE: e Resource DVD contains drivers or your computer. You canalso download the latest drivers and sotware or your computer rom support.dell.com.

Review your desktops confguration inormation, and ensure that the device thatyou want to test appears in the system setup program and is active. Start theAlienware Diagnostics rom the Resource DVD.

Starting Alienware Diagnostics From the Resource DVD

Insert the1. Resource DVD.

Shut down and restart the desktop.2.When the Alienware logo appears, press immediately.

NOTE:I you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continueto wait until you see the MicrosotWindowsdesktop; then, shut downyour computer and try again.

Beep Co

One

Computer Problemse computer ails the POST


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One

Two

ree

Four

Five

Six

Seven

e computer ails the POST

e computer POST (Power On Sel Test) ensures that all hardware is workingproperly beore starting the remainder o the boot process. I the computer passesthe POST, the computer continues to start normally. However, i the computerails the POST, the computer emits a series o beeps during start-up. e ollowingrepetitive beep codes help you troubleshoot problems with your computer.

For assistance, contact Alienware (see CONTACTING ALIENWARE on page 66).

NOTE:To replace parts, see the Service Manual atsupport.dell.com/manuals.

A program is designed

Run the Program Compa

e computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears

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


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Run the Program Compa

e Program Compatibilenvironment similar to no

Click1. Start Contprograms made or pr

In the welcome scree2.

Follow the instruction3.

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

I you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or movingyour mouse, press and hold the power button or at least 6 seconds until thecomputer turns o, then restart your computer.

A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly

End the program:

Press simultaneously.1.

Click the2. Applicationstab and select the program that is no longerresponding.

Click3. End Task.

Check the software documentation.

If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.


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Hard Drive Problems

Allow the computer to cool before turning it on

Memory

Memory errors detecte


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Allow the computer to cool before turning it on

A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system rom starting. Try allowingthe computer to return to room temperature beore turning it on.

Run Check Disk

Click1. Start Computer.

Right-click2. Local Disk C:.

Click3. PropertiesToolsCheck Now.I the User Account Controlwindow appears, click Continue.

Follow the instructions on the screen.4.

Memory errors detecteCheck memory modumemory modules i aReplacing Memory M

Computers using a dmemory modules be Alienware Technical S

Display

If the display is blanke computer maybeor press the power bu

Test the electrical outesting it with anothe

PowerWhen you press the power button, the computer does not turn on


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y p p , pI the computer is connected into a surge protector or UPS, ensure thatthe surge protector or UPS is securely connected to an electrical outlet, isswitched on and is working correctly.

Ensure that the electrical outlet is working properly by testing anotherdevice such as a radio or lamp that is known to be working. I the electricaloutlet is not working, contact an electrician or your power company orurther assistance.

Ensure all devices on the computer are properly connected to your computerand that the computer is properly connected to the surge protector or UPS.

When the computer is connected into an electric outlet, press the diagnostic

button and observe the diagnostic light (to locatethe diagnostic button anddiagnostic light, see Back View Features on page 17) .

I the diagnostic light turns ON, the power supply is unctioning asdesigned.

I the diagnostic light does not turn ON, there may be a problem withthe computer.

For urther assistance, contact Alienware support (see CONTACTING ALIENWAREon page 66).


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CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY

CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY Your com

Oper insta

Dell Loca

Reso the la

Dell DataSafe Local BackupDell DataSae Local Backup is a backup and recovery application that can restore

Turn on your comput3.When the Alienware l4.Advanced Boot Optio


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58 CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY

p p y ppyour computer i you lose data due to a virus attack, accidentally delete criticalfles or olders, or i the hard drive crashes.

is application allows you to:

Restore fles and olders

Restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchasedyour computer, without erasing the existing personal fles and data

To schedule backups:

Double-click the Dell DataSae Local Backup icon1. on the taskbar.

Choose2. Full System Backupto create and schedule automatic backup o allthe data in your computer.

To restore data:

Turn o your computer.1.

Disconnect all the devices connected to the computer (such as USB drive,2.printer, etc.) and remove any recently added internal hardware.

NOTE: Do not disconnect the monitor, keyboard, mouse, and the powercable.

NOTE:I you wait toto wait until you syour computer and

Select5. Repair Your Co

Select6. DellFactory Iminstructions on the s

NOTE: e restorathe size o the dat

NOTE:For more inbase article 35356


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is chap

CHAPTER 8: SPECIFICATIONSCHAPTER 8: SPECIFICATIONS

Computer Model

Alienware Aurora/Aurora ALXAlienware Aurora-R2

Processor and System C

Aurora/Aurora ALX


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60 CHAPTER 8: SPECIFICATIONS

Alienware Aurora R2

Dimensions

Height(with top vents open)

426 mm to 447 mm (16.77 inches to 17.59 inches)

Width 250 mm (9.84 inches)

Depth 645 mm (25.39 inches)

Average weight 22.09 kg (48.7 lb)

NOTE: e weight o your desktop will vary

depending on the confguration and themanuacturing variability.

Processor

L2 cache

L3 cache

System chipset

QPI speed

DRAM bus width

Processor address bwidth

Aurora-R2

Processor

L2 cache

L3 cache

System chipset

DMI speed

DRAM bus width

Processor address b

width

Processor and System Chipset

External bus requency 133 MHz

Memory

Connect

A


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Data bus bandwidth up to 6.4 GT/s

RAID support(internal SATA drives only)

RAID 0RAID 1RAID 5RAID 10

BIOS chip (NVRAM) 32 MB

Aur

Auro

Capaciti

1066 MH

Minimu

Maximu

Auro

Auro1600 M

Minimu

Maximu

Memory

Aur

Auro

NOTE: FMemory

Communications

Network adapter

( )

Back Panel Connectors

IEEE 1394 one 6-pin serial connector


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62 CHAPTER 8: SPECIFICATIONS

Wireless ( optional)

Drives

Externally accessible

Internally accessible

Expansion BusPCI Express x1:

Connectors

Connector size

PCI Express x16:

Connectors

Connector size

Network adapter one RJ45 connector

USB six 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors

eSATA one 4-pin eSATA connector

Audio 7.1 channel line output, stereo microphone andstereo line input connectors

S/PDIF (available onAurora/Aurora ALX only)

one optical and one coaxial output connector

Top Panel ConnectorsIEEE 1394 one 6-pin serial connector

USB two 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors

Audio one stereo headphone and microphoneconnectors

Comput

Temper

Audio

Type


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Ope

Stor

Rela

Maximuenviron

Ope

Non

Maximu

hal-sine

Ope

Non

Altitude

Ope

Stor

Airb

Aurora/Aurora ALX

Aurora-R2

integrated 7.1 channel, High Deinition Audiowith S/PDIF supportintegrated 7.1 channel, High Deinition Audio

Controller Realtek ALC 888S codec

Video

Type up to two graphic adapters - double-width, ulllength PCI Express x16

Operating speed

(Aurora-R2)

x16/x0 with a single x16 video card

x8/x8 with dual x16 video cardsPower

Voltage 100-240V AC

NOTE: For inormation on voltage settings, see the saety inormation shippedwith your computer.

Computer UseRoute the power cabltrip over them. Do no

D t ill thi

APPENDIX A: GENERAL AND ELECTRICALSAFETY PRECAUTIONS


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64 APPENDIX A: GENERAL AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Do not spill anything

To avoid electrical shcables rom the elect

Electrostatic Discharg

Electrostatic Discharge (Ei precautions are not takcaused is usually perman

Computer technicians wcomputers case to prevedamage by doing the ollo

Turn o your computwork.

Ground yoursel by to

Touch only those item

Avoid walking aroundare on a carpet or dur

I you have to removeportion o the compuconnectors at the bot

Computer SetupRead all instructions marked on the product and in the documentationbeore operating your computer.

Retain all saety and operating instructions.

Never use this product near water or a heat source.

Only set-up the computer on a stable work surace.

Only operate the computer using the power source type indicated on therating label.

Never block or cover any openings or ans in the computer case. ese arerequired or ventilation.

Never insert objects o any kind into the ventilation openings.

Ensure that your computer is properly grounded when in use.

Do not attempt to plug your computer into an outlet that is not properlygrounded.

I an extension cable is used with your computer, ensure that the totalampere rating on the computer does not exceed the maximum rating on theextension cable.

When Should You Contact Alienware?e power cable or plug is damaged.

Your computer has had liquid spilled into it


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Your computer has had liquid spilled into it.

Your computer was dropped or the case was damaged.

Normal operation o the computer does not occur when the operatinginstructions are ollowed.

Replacement Components or Accessories

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

Retain all boxes that were originally shipped to you in case you need to return any

merchandise.

WebsitesYou can learn about Alien

APPENDIX B: CONTACTING ALIENWARENOTE: I you do not have an active Internet connection, you can fndcontact inormation on your purchase invoice packing slip bill or Dell


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66 APPENDIX B: CONTACTING ALIENWARE

www.dell.com

www.dell.com/ap (As

www.dell.com/jp (Ja

www.euro.dell.com (

www.dell.com/la (Lat

www.dell.ca (Canada

You can access Alienware

support.dell.com

support.jp.dell.com (

support.euro.dell.co

support.la.dell.com (

contact inormation on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dellproduct catalog.

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

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

Visit1. www.dell.com/contactdell.

Select your country or region.2.

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

APPENDIX C: IMPORTANT INFORMATIONNVIDIA GeForce GTX 295 Graphics Cards


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NVIDIA GeForce GTX 295 Graphics CardsWhen you utilize dual NVIDIA GeForce GTX 295 graphics cards in a Quad SLIconfguration, HDMI output is not supported.

NOTE: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 295 graphics cards HDMI output is limited tosingle-card confgurations only.

When Quad SLI is enabled on a GeForce GTX 295 graphics card, the videoquality can be optimized using the Dual Link DVI.

When you utilize a single GeForce GTX 295 graphics card with HDMI outputand not DVI or VGA, no image is displayed or about 30 seconds until

Windows loads the display driver.For more inormation about the unctionality o the NVIDIA GeForceGTX295 graphics card, see the NVIDIA website athttp://nvidia.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/nvidia.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=2354.


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