Table of Contents
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Table of Contents
Troubleshooting
Related Manuals for Dell Alienware M15x
Summary of Contents for Dell Alienware M15x
- Page 1 ALIENWARE M15x MOBILE MANUAL ®...
- Page 2 Trademarks used in this manual: Alienware, AlienRespawn, AlienFX, and the AlienHead logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Alienware Corporation. Dell is a trademark of Dell Inc. Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and Windows Vista start button logo are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
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Page 3: Table Of Contents
CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP ........ - Page 4 Dell DataSafe Local Backup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Page 5: Introduction
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. - Page 6 INTRODUCTION...
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Page 7: Chapter 1: Setting Up Your Laptop
CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP... -
Page 8: Before Setting Up Your Laptop
® M15x! answers to many of the questions that may arise as you explore your new laptop’ s capabilities. You may see the documentation for technical information or general use as needed to answer questions in the future, or aid you in finding answers and solutions. -
Page 9: Connect The Ac Adapter
Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to a power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or equipment damage. NOTE: The 150 W AC adapter must be connected to the laptop for maximum gaming performance. CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP... -
Page 10: Connect The Network Cable (Optional)
Connect the Network Cable (Optional) CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP Set Up Microsoft Windows CAUTION: Do not interrupt the operating system’ s setup process. Doing so may render your computer unusable. Your computer is preconfigured with the operating system you requested while ordering your computer. - Page 11 NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose or contact your ISP. Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup. Network and Sharing Center → Set up a CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP...
- Page 12 NOTE: If you do not know which type of connection to select, click Help me choose or contact your ISP. Follow the instructions on the screen and use the setup information provided by your ISP to complete the setup. CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP Set up a →...
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Page 13: Chapter 2: Getting To Know Your Laptop
CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP This chapter provides information about your new laptop to familiarize you with its various features, and get you up and running quickly. CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP... -
Page 14: Front View Features
Front View Features CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP Left speaker — Combines with the right speaker to provide high quality stereo sound. Infrared port — Connects to devices using infrared. Right speaker — Combines with the left speaker to provide high quality... -
Page 15: Left View Features
Connects your computer to a network or — Connects your computer to external — Connects to USB devices, such as a mouse, — Connects to high-speed serial multimedia — Provides a fast and convenient way to — CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP... -
Page 16: Right View Features
— Connects to speakers, headphones, and microphone. NOTE: For information on audio connectors, see “Connecting External Speakers” on page 27. CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP Optical drive — Blu-ray Discs (optional). Ensure that the side with print or writing is facing upward when inserting discs. -
Page 17: Display Features
Camera — Built-in camera for video capture, conferencing, and chat. Right digital array microphone — Combines with the left digital array microphone to provide high quality sound for video chatting and voice recording. CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP... -
Page 18: Computer Base And Keyboard Features
Computer Base and Keyboard Features CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP Status lights (3) — Indicates if the Scroll Lock, Caps Lock, or Number Lock lights are turned on or off. Keyboard — The backlit keyboard provides visibility in dark environments by illuminating all symbols on the keys. -
Page 19: Status Lights
(for more information, see “Alienware Command Center” on page 32) Fast Forward or Play Stealth Mode - Switch computer next track to low power state (for more information, see “Stealth Mode” on page 32) Decrease volume CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP... -
Page 20: Power Button
“Computer Base and Keyboard Features” on page 18. The color of the AlienHead rim indicates the power status. The color indicating the power status can be changed through the AlienFX CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP On AC adapter: Blue or custom AC-color Blue or custom AC-color fading ®... -
Page 21: Function Keys
Function Keys NOTE: Depending on the configuration of the laptop you purchased, some of the function keys may have no associated tasks. The <Fn> key is located near the bottom-left corner of the keyboard, and is used together with other keys to activate certain functions. Hold down the <Fn> key along with the key described below: FI –... -
Page 22: Battery Pack
Connect the AC adapter to the laptop and to an electrical outlet. The power button light indicates the power and battery status. For details on the power button light, see “Power Button” on page 20. When the laptop is OFF, a depleted Li-ion battery will take three hours to recharge. -
Page 23: Power Management
A: The batteries will self-discharge (1% per day for Li-ion) when they are not being recharged. To ensure a battery is fully charged, recharge before use. Always keep the battery inside the laptop and have the AC adapter connected whenever possible. -
Page 24: Reducing Power Consumption
Change plan settings next to the selected power plan. CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP Reducing Power Consumption Although your laptop (together with the operating system) is capable of power conservation, there are measures you can take to reduce the power consumption: •... -
Page 25: Chapter 3: Connecting Devices
CHAPTER 3: CONNECTING DEVICES This chapter provides information about connecting optional devices to your laptop to enhance your audio, visual, and digital experience. CHAPTER 3: CONNECTING DEVICES CHAPTER 3: CONNECTING DEVICES... -
Page 26: Connecting External Displays
DisplayPort, you can connect to the display using either a VGA cable from the laptop’ s 15-pin VGA connector or a DVI cable using a DisplayPort- to-DVI adapter. This adapter can be purchased through Alienware, Dell, or other electronics retailers. -
Page 27: Connecting External Speakers
Connecting External Speakers Your Alienware laptop has two integrated audio out connectors and one audio in connector. The audio out connectors deliver quality sound and support 5.1 surround audio. You can connect the audio input connector from a home stereo or speaker system for a heightened gaming and media experience. -
Page 28: Connecting Printers
This driver is located on the software CD that is included with the printer. Connect the printer’ s USB cable to an available USB connector on your laptop. Connect the printer’ s power cable to a grounded, three-prong power-strip, uninterruptible power supply, or wall outlet. -
Page 29: Connecting Usb Devices
The USB PowerShare feature is enabled in the BIOS setup by default. When the laptop is on battery mode, you can disable the feature through the Advanced Menu in BIOS (for more information, see “Entering System Setup” on page 34). - Page 30 CHAPTER 3: CONNECTING DEVICES...
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Page 31: Chapter 4: Using Your Laptop
CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR LAPTOP CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR LAPTOP CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR LAPTOP... -
Page 32: Alienware Command Center
ExpressCard or media card slot, ensure that the blank cards that shipped with your laptop is inserted in the unused slot(s). The blank cards protect the unused slots from dust and other particles. When inserting a blank card, ensure that the correct side is on the top (indicated by an arrow mark on some blank cards). -
Page 33: Using The Optical Drive
Using the Optical Drive Your laptop has a slot load optical drive. Depending on the configuration ordered, your laptop may have one of the following drive types. These logos are used to indicate each drive’ s capabilities and media compatibility. -
Page 34: Configuring The Bios
Entering System Setup Turn on (or restart) your laptop. While the laptop is booting, press <F2> immediately before the operating system logo appears to access the BIOS Setup Utility. If an error occurs during POST (Power On Self Test), you may also enter the BIOS Setup Utility by pressing <F2>... - Page 35 NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed in this section may not appear, or may not appear exactly as listed. NOTE: For the updated system setup information, see the Service Manual on the Dell Support website at support.dell.com/manuals. Main Menu System Time Displays the system time.
- Page 36 (Power On Self Test). NOTE: You cannot boot any type of USB device (floppy, hard drive, or memory key) when this option is off. CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR LAPTOP Advanced Menu SATA Operation Allows you to configure the operating mode of the integrated SATA hard drive controller.
- Page 37 Allows you to set the user password. The user password Password controls access to the computer at boot. Enable Allows you to enable or disable password entry on boot. Password on Boot Asset Tag Displays the asset tag. CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR LAPTOP...
- Page 38 Allows you to enable or disable the USB PowerShare feature. This feature is intended to allow users to charge external devices using the stored battery power through the USB PowerShare connector on the laptop, even while the laptop is turned off.
- Page 39 Allows you to load default values for all Setup items. Defaults Discard Changes Allows you to load previous values from CMOS for all Setup items. Save Changes Allows you to save Setup data to CMOS. CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR LAPTOP...
- Page 40 CHAPTER 4: USING YOUR LAPTOP...
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Page 41: Chapter 5: Installing Additional Or Replacement Components
NOTE: See the Service Manual at the Dell™ Support website, support.dell.com/manuals for installation instructions of all serviceable components. Parts purchased from Dell and Alienware will ship with specific replacement instructions. CHAPTER 5: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS... -
Page 42: Before You Begin
Before You Begin This section provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your laptop. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist: • You have performed the steps in “Turning Off Your Computer” and “Before Working Inside Your Computer”... - Page 43 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.
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Page 44: Replacing The Battery Pack
Replacing the Battery Pack This battery pack can easily be removed and replaced. Ensure that the laptop is properly shut down before changing the battery pack. CAUTION: To avoid damage to the laptop, use only the battery designed for this particular Alienware laptop. Do not use batteries designed for other Alienware or Dell laptops. -
Page 45: Upgrading Or Replacing Memory
Upgrading or Replacing Memory Your laptop is equipped with a configurable memory unit. The industry standard JEDEC PC3-8500/PC3-10600 (DDR3) SODIMM memory module connectors are available for memory upgrade. The table below illustrates all the possible ways system memory can be configured. - Page 46 Loosen the two captive screws and remove the memory module door. memory module door captive screws (2) Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the memory module connector’ s spring-locks until the module pops up. Remove the memory module. CHAPTER 5: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS memory module connector notch To replace the memory modules, perform the removal steps in reverse order.
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Page 47: Upgrading Or Replacing The Hard Drive
Upgrading or Replacing the Hard Drive Your laptop is equipped with one hard drive socket. Removing the Hard Drive Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Loosen the two screws and remove the compartment door. screws (2) compartment door Loosen the four captive screws on the hard drive. - Page 48 Remove the four screws that secure the hard drive to the hard drive bracket. Lift the hard drive out of the hard drive bracket. hard drive screws (4) hard drive bracket CHAPTER 5: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS Remove the interposer from the hard drive. interposer To replace the hard drive, perform the removal steps in reverse order.
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Page 49: Chapter 6: Troubleshooting
CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING... -
Page 50: Basic Hints And Tips
• Display Choice: Press the key combination <Fn><F6> to ensure that the computer is not set to “External Only” display. • Use only the AC adapter that shipped with your laptop. CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING Backup and General Maintenance • Always backup your important data on a regular basis and keep copies of your operating system and software safe. -
Page 51: Software Diagnostic Tools
When troubleshooting your computer, remember the following safety guidelines: • Before touching any of the computer’ s internal components, touch an unpainted portion of the chassis. Doing so will safely discharge any static electricity, which could damage your computer. • Turn off your computer and any connected peripherals. - Page 52 Alienware Diagnostics ® If you experience a problem with your Alienware laptop, 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. Backup functionality is included in AlienRespawn™...
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Page 53: Answers To Common Problems
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: Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page 42 before working inside your computer. - Page 54 System The computer fails the POST The POST (Power On Self Test) tests the computer, ensuring that it meets the necessary system requirements and that all hardware is working properly before starting the remainder of the boot process. If the computer passes the POST, the computer will continue to start normally.
- Page 55 Windows ® Click Start Control Panel Programs Programs and Features → → → an older program with this version of Windows. In the welcome screen, click Next. Follow the instructions on the screen. 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...
- Page 56 Internet Cannot browse the Internet or the Unable to locate host error message appears: • Check if you are connected to the Internet. • Check if the web address typed in the address bar is correct and valid. Try a different Web address, or URL.
- Page 57 Memory Memory errors detected on startup • Check memory modules for correct seating and orientation. Reseat the memory modules if applicable (see “Upgrading or Replacing Memory” on page 45). • Computers using a dual-channel memory configuration require that memory modules be installed in pairs. If you require assistance, contact Alienware Technical Support (for more information, see “CONTACTING ALIENWARE“...
- Page 58 If the display is difficult to read Adjust the brightness: Press <Fn><F4> to increase brightness or <Fn><F5> to decrease brightness. Adjust the Windows display settings: Windows Vista ® Click Start Control Panel Hardware and Software → → Personalization Display Settings. →...
- Page 59 Power When you press the power button, the computer does not turn on • If the AC adapter is connected to 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.
- Page 60 Game Controllers The computer does not recognize the game controller • Check that the cable connecting the game controller to the computer is not damaged and that it is properly connected. • Reinstall the device driver for the game controller. Speakers There is no sound from the speakers (external) Ensure that subwoofer and the speakers are turned on:...
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Page 61: Chapter 7: System Recovery
AlienRespawn v2.0 disc (if ordered) — Contains the AlienRespawn • Optional recovery image. NOTE: Your computer ships with either AlienRespawn v2.0 or Dell DataSafe Local. CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY... -
Page 62: Alienrespawn V2.0
AlienRespawn v2.0 NOTE: Back up all data before initiating a system recovery. Backup functionality is included in AlienRespawn™ v2.0, but as a precaution it is recommended to backup critical files onto an external media before initiating recovery. AlienRespawn™ v2.0 is a recovery solution which is capable of resolving many software-related problems, including operating system configuration errors, driver installation errors, system file corruption, spyware/virus infection (when used in conjunction with antivirus software), and more. -
Page 63: Password Protection
Advanced Recovery This method will completely reformat your hard drive and return your computer to its original factory configuration resolving all software or configuration issues. This option is best for most software-related issues. A backup of your entire current hard drive will be created in C:\BACKUP, from which data files may be copied to permanent locations. -
Page 64: Alienrespawn V2.0 Disc
To Enable or Change Password Settings Start All Programs AlienRespawn v2.0. Click → → Click the icon labeled Respawn Settings. Respawn Settings application will launch. • If you are enabling password protection for the first time, enter the default password, “alienware” (case-sensitive), in the appropriate field, then click Submit. -
Page 65: Dell Datasafe Local Backup
Dell DataSafe Local Backup Dell DataSafe Local Backup is a backup and recovery application that can restore your computer if you lose data due to a virus attack, accidentally delete critical files or folders, or if the hard drive crashes. - Page 66 CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY...
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Page 67: Chapter 8: Basic Specifications
CHAPTER 8: BASIC SPECIFICATIONS This chapter provides the basic specifications of your computer. For more detailed specifications, see the Comprehensive Specifications on the Dell Support website CHAPTER 8: BASIC SPECIFICATIONS at support.dell.com/manuals. CHAPTER 8: BASIC SPECIFICATIONS... - Page 68 Computer Model Alienware M15x Dimensions Height 48.7 mm (1.92 inches) - Front and Back Width 377.93 mm (14.88 inches) Depth 308.51 mm (12.15 inches) Weight with 6-cell battery 4.08 kg (9.00 lb) (starting at) NOTE: The weight of your laptop will vary depending on the configuration ordered and the manufacturing variability.
- Page 69 AC Adapter Type 150 W Output current 7.7 A (continuous) Rated output voltage 19.5 VDC Communications Network adapter 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet LAN on system board Wireless • WLAN Mini-Card (Half Mini-Card slot) • WPAN, Bluetooth card (full card slot) Discs/Cards Supported Optical drive formats SATA-compliant Blu-ray Disc, DVD-RW combo •...
- Page 70 Battery Type and dimensions 6-cell “smart” lithium ion (57 Whr) Depth 53.8 mm (2.12 inches) Height 21.3 mm (0.84 inches) Width 213 mm (8.39 inches) Weight 0.33 kg (0.72 lb) 9-cell “smart” lithium ion (86 Whr) (optional) Depth 53.8 mm (2.12 inches) Height 36.9 mm (1.45 inches) Width...
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Page 71: Appendix A: General And Electrical Safety Precautions
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. •... - Page 72 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.
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Page 73: Appendix B: Contacting Alienware
APPENDIX B: CONTACTING ALIENWARE NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog. Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options. -
Page 74: Appendix C: Important Information
APPENDIX C: IMPORTANT INFORMATION • BACKUP ANY DATA YOU HAVE BEFORE INITIATING A SYSTEM RECOVERY OR SENDING YOUR COMPUTER IN FOR REPAIR OR UPGRADES. • RETAIN ALL BOXES THAT WERE ORIGINALLY SHIPPED TO YOU IN CASE YOU NEED TO RETURN ANY MERCHANDISE. APPENDIX C: IMPORTANT INFORMATION... - Page 75 Printed in China. Printed on recycled paper. 039YVGA00...