ALIENWARE ALX DESKTOP MANUAL The contents herein are subject to change without notice. ©1996-2006 Alienware Corporation. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this manual in any manner without the prior written permission of Alienware Corporation is strictly prohibited. Trademarks used in this manual: Alienware, Alienlce, the AlienHead logo, and AlienAutopsy are trademarks or registered trademarks of Alienware Corporation. Microsoft and Windows are registered trade-marks of Microsoft Corporation.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CONTENTS Introduction, 5 Chapter 1 System Preparation and Setup, 7 When your Computer First Arrives, 8 Location and Positioning of Your Computer, 8 Getting to Know Your Computer, 9 Front I/O Ports and Features, 10 Rear Ports and Features, 11 Accessing System Drives, 13 Connecting Monitors, 14 Connecting a Digital Monitor, 14 Connecting an Analog Monitor, 15 Connecting Multiple Monitors, 15 Connecting a TV, 16 Connecting to an NVIDIA SLI Graphics Configuration, 17 Configuring a
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Using Digital Flash Media, 32 Connecting to the Internet, 32 Connecting to a Home Network, 32 Power Management, 33 Chapter 3 Installing Additional or Replacement Components, 35 Removing the Side Panel, 36 Installing Expansion Cards, 37 Installing a PCI Express x16 Video Card, 37 Installing a PCI or PCI Express Expansion Card, 39 Installing Additional or Replacement Drives, 41 Hard Disk Drives, 41 CD-RW, DVD/CD-RW, or DVD±R/W Drives, 42 Installing Additional or Replacement Mem
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Monitor, 56 Mouse, 57 Power, 57 Printer, 58 Speakers, 58 Expansion Cards, 59 Game Controllers, 59 Appendix A Microsoft Critical Updates, 61 Appendix B General And Electrical Safety Precautions, 63 Appendix C Terms And Conditions Agreement, 65 Appendix D Limited Product Warranty; Disclaimer Of Warranties; And Limitation Of Liability, 67 Appendix E Contacting Alienware, 72 Appendix F Important Information, 74
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual INTRODUCTION Dear Valued Alienware Customer, Welcome to the Alienware family. We are thrilled to include you among the growing number of savvy computer users who have chosen to purchase a product recognized for its award winning combination of quality and innovation. Because we are hardcore computer users ourselves, Alienware employees understand your needs when it comes to your system and work tirelessly every day to exceed your expectations.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CHAPTER 1: SYSTEM PREPARATION AND SETUP
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CHAPTER 1: SYSTEM PREPARATION AND SETUP When Your Computer First Arrives Before setting up your computer or components, please inspect all items for any physical damage that may have occurred during shipment. Report any damaged items to customer service within 5 days of receiving the shipment. Shipping damage reported after the first 5 days of receiving the shipment will not be honored.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Getting to Know Your Computer This section of Chapter One provides essential information about your new computer to familiarize you with its various features and get you up and running quickly. Front I/O Ports and Features Power button, Power indicator, and Hard Disk Activity Indicator Drive bay access Audio Line Out port Audio Line In port Fire Wire (IEEE 1 394) port USB 2.0 port USB 2.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Front I/O Ports and Features Audio Line Out (Headphone) Audio Line In (Microphone) FireWire port (IEEE1394) USB 2.0 port USB 2.0 port FireWire (IEEE1394) Connect high-speed FireWire (also known as IEEE1394) devices such as digital camcorders and external hard disk drives. Line In Connect audio devices such as a stereo microphone, MP3 player, or any other audio source using a 1/8” mini-jack. Line Out Connect stereo headphones or other audio device using a 1/8” mini-jack.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Rear Ports and Features Ventilation - Do not block Power supply switch I - On / O - Off Left and right panel release latches Power socket Ventilation - Do not block Rear I/O ports DVI display port 2 DVI display port 1 S-Video port 1 DVI display port 4 (optional) DVI display port 3 (optional) S-Video port 2 (optional) Discrete audio I/O (optional) Ventilation - Do not block 11
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Power Supply Switch Make sure the power supply switch is in the on position before powering on your computer. Power Socket Plug the power cord into the power cord socket and plug the other end into a grounded power outlet, a grounded power strip or an (UPS) uninterruptible power supply.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual DVI Display Port 3 (Optional) If your computer is configured with two graphics cards and you would like to use more than two monitors, connect your third monitor to this port. For detailed information on connecting monitors to your computer, see Connecting Monitors in this chapter. Note: This port is non-operational when NVIDIA SLI technology is enabled.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Connecting Monitors In addition to CRT and LCD displays, your system also supports the use of multiple monitors. It can also be output to a TV with an available S-Video input. To connect multiple monitors, a DVI-to-VGA adapter may be necessary. For more information on multiple monitors, see Connecting Multiple Monitors in this chapter. Connecting a Digital Monitor DVI Connector DVI Connector 1. Turn off your computer. 2.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Connecting an Analog Monitor DVI Connector DVI Connector VGA to DVI Adapter VGA from Monitor An analog monitor can be connected to your computer the same way a digital monitor can be connected; however, you will need a DVI-to-VGA adapter in order to adapt your computer’s DVI display port to an analog connection.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Connecting a TV A TV with an available S-Video input can be connected using an S-Video cable. These cables can be purchased at home electronics retailers. For more information about your TV’s available video inputs, refer to the television’s manual. To connect a TV to your computer: 1. Connect one end of the S-Video cable to your computer’s S-Video port and connect the other end to your TV’s S-Video input. 2. Turn on your television. 3. Restart your computer. 4.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Connecting to an NVIDIA® SLI™ Graphics Configuration SLI-enabled graphics provides hardware support for one DVI-I monitor or one VGA monitor using a DVI-to-VGA adapter.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Enabling Multiple Monitors with NVIDIA Based Graphics Use the nView Display Settings control panel to enable multiple monitors. Disable SLI in the NVIDIA Display control panel before enabling multiple displays. Accessing nView Display Settings from the Windows Control Panel From the Windows® task bar: 1. Click the Start button (Windows® logo) 2. Click Control Panel > Appearance and Themes > Display In the Display Settings Control Panel: 1.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Connecting to an ATI CrossFire™ Graphics Configuration CrossFire-enabled graphics provides hardware support for one DVI-I monitor or one VGA monitor using a DVI-to-VGA adapter.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Configuring a CrossFire Graphics Configuration with Multiple Displays Display support is only available through the CrossFire™ Interconnect cable when CrossFire™ is active. This arrangement ensures the highest possible performance. When CrossFire is active other display devices connected to the other DVI or VGA connections on the Master and Slave graphics cards are rendered inactive.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Enabling Multiple Monitors with ATI Based Graphics Use the Displays Manager of the Catalyst™ Control Center software to enable multiple monitors. The Displays Manager is available in both Standard and Advanced views of the Catalyst™ Control Center software.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual To Enable a Secondary Display Device Click the Wizard button and follow the instructions to enable Clone Mode. Note: A secondary display device can be a flat panel display, CRT monitor, TV, or VCR. To Enable a Secondary Display Device 1. 2. 3. 4. Open Catalyst Control Center in Advanced mode. From the Tree View pane, click Displays Manager. Click the number 2 display icon in the right-hand box. Click Yes to the Enable this display dialog.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Sound Blaster X-Fi Series Sound Blaster X-Fi series sound cards do not feature an on board Game/MIDI port; instead, this card features an AD_LINK port. Sound Blaster X-Fi sound card outputs are detailed below from left to right: AD_LINK 3 2 1 LINE IN or DIGITAL_IO Sound Blaster X-Fi Inputs / Outputs AD_LINK AD_LINK Connector Connects to the External I/O Hub for transferring data. 3 Line Out 3 jack Connects to Front Center, Subwoofer and Side Left (only on 7.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Connecting Keyboards and Mice Connecting a Keyboard 1. Locate the (purple) PS/2 port at the back of the computer. 2. Properly orient the keyboard’s PS/2 connector with this port and gently push until the connector is fully inserted. Do not force the connector into the port. If you are unable to fully seat the connector, double-check its orientation with the port.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Connecting a Printer Connecting a Plug and Play Printer If your printer supports plug and play, Windows Vista will detect it and attempt to install the printer automatically. In some cases, Windows may require a driver for the printer. This driver is located on the software CD that is included with the printer. 1. Determine if the printer connects via Parallel or USB. 2.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CHAPTER 2: USING YOUR SYSTEM 27
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CHAPTER 2: USING YOUR SYSTEM Connecting USB Devices Plug the USB device into an available USB port on your computer. Windows Vista will detect the device and attempt to install the appropriate driver automatically. In some cases, Windows may require a driver. This driver is located on the software CD that is included with the device. For further information, please refer to your device’s documentation.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Optical Drives Depending on the configuration ordered, your computer is configured with one or more of the following drive types: CD-R/W Writer A CD-RW drive can read CD-ROM, CD-R and CD-RW media. It can also record to CD-R or CD-RW media. It cannot read any type of DVD media or write to any type of DVD-RW media. DVD-ROM Reader A DVD-ROM drive can read CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW and DVD media. Some can read DVD-RW media.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual You can easily identify and distinguish the optical drives installed in your computer by looking for the below logos on the front of each drive. These logos are used to indicate each drive’s respective capabilities and media compatibility. This logo indicates a DVD-ROM-capable drive.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Writing a CD or DVD To write a CD or DVD: Click Start (Windows® Logo) > All Programs > Nero 7 Essentials > Nero StartSmart Essentials Select the type of CD or DVD you wish to create from the menu. Follow the Nero Express Essentials on-screen instructions.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Using Digital Flash Media (Optional Media Reader / Writer) Insert a supported media card into the correct media slot in the digital flash media reader / writer. Windows will read the media and present a window containing the media card’s contents. Connecting to the Internet 1. Click Start (Windows® Logo) > Control Panel > Network and Internet. 2. Connect to the Internet’ located in the ‘Internet Options’ section. 3. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Power Management To customize your computer’s power settings: 1. 2. 3. 4. Click Start (Windows® Logo) > Control Panel. Click ‘Classic View’ from the task panel. Double-click on the ‘Power Options’ icon. Select a power plan from the options show. To customize specific settings, click ‘Change plan settings’ beneath the selected power plan.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CHAPTER 3: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS 35
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CHAPTER 3: INSTALLING ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT COMPONENTS This chapter provides information about installing, uninstalling, and replacing system components. Refer to the technical reference provided on your system’s Windows Desktop for more information about your system’s expansion slots, recommended memory configurations, and further technical information.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Installing Expansion Cards Installing a PCI Express x16 Video Card Done properly, installing a video card is a simple process. To begin, ensure that any previous video card drivers have been uninstalled. After Windows has completed uninstalling the video card’s drivers, restart the computer – do not shut it down. When Windows restarts, it will detect the video card and prompt you to install its drivers.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual PCI Express x16 card Securing Tab PCI Express x16 card slot Installing a PCI Express x16 video card in a single card configuration Graphics Card Bridge Power Connectors (2) Dual-PCI Express Graphics Cards Installing PCI Express x16 video cards in a dual card configuration 38
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Install the new video card by carefully inserting it into the motherboard’s PCI-E X16 slot. Gently apply pressure evenly across the length of the video card until it is fully seated in the PCI-E X16 slot. If your motherboard’s PCI-E X16 slot features an integrated PCI-E X16 retention mechanism, you should hear the mechanism snap into place, indicating that the video card is properly seated and secured in the PCI-E X16 slot.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the card’s fastening screw and keep it safely where it will not be lost; you will need it to secure the new card. Carefully remove the card from its PCI slot. Install the new PCI card by carefully inserting it into the same PCI slot from which the previous card was removed. Gently apply pressure evenly across the edge of the card until it is fully seated in the PCI slot.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Installing Additional or Replacement Drives Hard Disk Drives 1. Disconnect the drive’s SATA power cable. 2. Disconnect the drive’s SATA data cable. 3. Remove the drive by pulling its release tabs together and sliding it out of the drive cage. 4. Remove the drive rails from the drive. 5. Check the new drive’s documentation to be sure jumper positioning is correct. 6. Attach the drive rails removed from the previous drive to the new drive. 7.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CD-RW, DVD/CD-RW, or DVD±R/W Drives 1. Disconnect the drive’s Molex power cable. 2. Disconnect the drive’s ATA data cable. 3. Gently pull outward on the drive release clip located on the side of the optical drive cage and pull the drive forward and out of the drive bay. 4. Slide the new drive into the drive bay until it clicks into place; the release tab will snap into place when the drive had been fully inserted. 5. Connect the drive’s Molex power cable.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Removing a Memory Module Press outward on the retention clips at each end of the module. This will release the module from the memory socket. Installing a Memory Module 1. Press outward on the retention clips at each end of the empty memory socket. 2. Orient the memory module so that any notches in its edge connector are in alignment with the keys in the memory socket. 3.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CHAPTER 4: SYSTEM RECOVERY 45
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CHAPTER 4: SYSTEM RECOVERY AlienRespawn 1.0 Based on a unique image of your personal system hard drive created by Alienware technicians, AlienRespawn enables a quick and convenient restoration of your system to the condition in which it was shipped. The AlienRespawn kit includes the Boot CD featuring AlienRespawn software and the personalized Image DVD individually created from your hard drive.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual 9. Once the AlienRespawn process has completed your system will have been restored to original factory status. Remove and safely store your AlienRespawn Image DVD in a secure location and restart your system. 10. Your system will now restart into its original factory configuration. An Alienware Support CD is also included with your system to provide drivers and utilities for your installed hardware. For updated drivers and utilities, please visit www.alienware.com.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Recovery Disc In order to start the recovery process, you will need to make sure you have the Alienware Recovery Disc and Master CD. The Alienware Master CD contains drivers originally installed on your computer. You can also download drivers and software from www.alienware.com.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING 49
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING When troubleshooting your computer, please 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. • Disconnect any peripherals from your computer. • Never attempt to open a monitor’s enclosure.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Software Diagnostic Tools Backup and general Maintenance • Always backup your important data and keep copies of your operating system and software safe. Don’t forget to note the Serial numbers if you are storing them outside of their original cases - e.g. in a CD Wallet. • Run maintenance programs as often as you can. You may schedule these programs to run at times when you are not using your computer.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Answers to Common Problems CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD±RW or Blu-Ray Drive The computer does not recognize the disc or drive: • Check to see if the disc is properly inserted into the drive with the label facing up. • Try another disc. • Shut down and restart the computer. • Clean the disc. • Restart the computer and enter the BIOS setup utility by pressing and holding the Delete or F2 key (key may vary) as the computer restarts.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual • • • • Shut down and restart your computer. Clean the Disc. Reinstall the DVD or Blu-Ray playback software provided with your system. Try another disc. Some discs may have conflict with the drive if the encoding on the DVD or Blu-Ray disc does not match the encoding recognized by the drive. System The computer will not POST: • Make sure that the power cord is properly connected to the back of the computer and a wall outlet or AC power source.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Error: “Non-system disk or disk error”: • Eject the disk from the diskette drive and then press ENTER. • The hard drive is not recognized. • Check that the IDE or SATA controllers are properly enabled in the BIOS setup utility. To access the BIOS setup utility, restart your computer and press and hold the Delete or F2 key (key may vary). • Shut down your computer, unplug your power cord and modem cable (if applicable). Open the case.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Website connection is slow Internet performance can be affected by the following factors: • • • • The condition of the telephone or network cables being used. The condition of the network equipment at your ISP. The graphics or multimedia on web pages. Multiple browsers, downloads, or programs open on your computer. Keyboard The keyboard is not responding: • Check that the keyboard cable is properly plugged into the back of your computer.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Memory Memory errors detected on start up: • Check memory modules for correct seating and orientation. Reseat the memory modules if applicable. • Computers using a dual-channel memory configuration require that memory modules be installed in pairs. If you require assistance, please contact Alienware Technical Support.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Displayed text is dim, blurry, or otherwise difficult to read: • Adjust the brightness and contrast controls. • Change display settings. • Move the monitor away from devices that may be causing electrical interference such as televisions, unshielded speakers, fluorescent lights and metal shelves. Mouse The mouse is not working: • Check that the mouse cable is properly plugged into the PS/2 port or USB port on the back of your computer.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Printer The printer will not turn on: • Check that the power cord is properly connected to a wall outlet. • Check that the wall outlet is working properly by testing it with another device such as a radio or lamp that you know works. If the wall outlet is not working, please contact an electrician or power company for further assistance. The printer will not print: • Check that the power cord is properly connected and the printer is properly connected to the computer.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Expansion Cards The computer does not recognize a PCI or AGP component: • Check that the cables are properly connected to the PCI or AGP component by the device that requires it, such as a monitor to a video card. • Check that the cables are not damaged or that the pins are not bent or broken on the cable and the port. • Shut down the computer, unplug the power cable, modem cable (if applicable) and any cables attached to the AGP or PCI component and open the case.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual 60
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual APPENDIX A: MICROSOFT CRITICAL UPDATES Your new Alienware system was updated with the latest available Microsoft Windows Updates at the time of shipping in order to ensure the highest possible level of system stability, security, and performance; however, due to the frequency with which Microsoft Windows Critical Updates are released, Alienware highly recommends visiting the Microsoft Windows Update website at http://windowsupdate.microsoft.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual APPENDIX B: 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.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual When You Should Contact Alienware • • • • The power cord or plug is damaged. The computer has had liquid spilled into it. The computer was dropped or the case was damaged. Normal operation of the computer does not occur when the operating instructions are followed.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual APPENDIX C: TERMS AND CONDITIONS AGREEMENT Please visit http://www.alienware.com/terms/ to view the terms and conditions agreement. We recommend that you print a copy and file it with your invoice for future reference.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual APPENDIX D: LIMITED PRODUCT WARRANTY: DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES; AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY Limited Product Warranty Please visit http://www.alienware.com/warranty/ to view the Limited Product Warranty, Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability. Obtaining Warranty Service Please contact Alienware Customer Support. Have the manual, warranty number and proof of purchase information available.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Systems Returned to Alienware for Repair If the Technical Support representative determines that your system must come back to Alienware for repair, you will be issued an RMA number. Be sure to follow all of the return instructions completely as all systems arriving at Alienware without a valid RMA number will be refused and returned to sender.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Replacing a Defective Component If a Technical Support representative determines that a component is defective, you will be issued an RMA number. All components arriving at Alienware without a valid RMA number will be refused and returned to sender. The two options for returning defective components are: Return First Return the defective part using the small package carrier specified by Alienware.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual The carrier’s shipping document must be printed clearly and include: 1. The RMA number next to your name 2. Total declared value (Insurance 3. Package weight 4. Your return address Contact Alienware to schedule a pickup. You will have up to five business days to ship the defective component(s) back to Alienware. No refunds will be issued if the defective component(s) are not shipped within 5 days of receiving the replacement component(s).
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual 30-day Money Back Guarantee In addition to the standard warranty, Alienware offers a 30-day money back guarantee on every system. If you are not satisfied with your system, you may return it within 30 days for a refund. The refund will only be issued for the amount of the sale and will not include shipping costs. All systems and parts will be subject to a 15% restocking fee. To return merchandise, you must obtain an RMA number.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual APPENDIX E: CONTACTING ALIENWARE Sales Our sales team is available Monday through Friday, to meet all your computer sales needs. They specialize in making sure you get exactly the computer you want. ALX Sales Toll-Free Sales in the US and Canada: Sales Email: Hours of Operation: 1-888-ALIENALX (254-3625) ALXsales@alienware.com Mon - Fri: 9:00 am - 10:00 pm EST Customer Service Please visit our web site for current operational hours.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual Technical Support We have compiled an extensive Knowledge Base of Frequently Asked Questions and their Solutions. You are able to search by key words, categories or both. It is likely that you will find the information needed here. This area is open and does not require warranty coverage. Go to www.alienware.com and visit our support area. Technical support representatives are also available by telephone. Telephone support is available for computer systems under warranty.
Alienware ALX Desktop Manual APPENDIX F: IMPORTANT INFORMATION • PLEASE BACKUP ANY DATA YOU HAVE BEFORE INITIATING A SYSTEM RECOVERY OR SENDING YOUR SYSTEM IN FOR REPAIR OR UPGRADES. • PLEASE RETAIN ALL BOXES THAT WERE ORIGINALLY SHIPPED TO YOU IN CASE YOU NEED TO RETURN ANY MERCHANDISE. • PLEASE CONTACT OUR SUPPORT DEPARTMENT AT 866-287-6727 WHEN UPGRADING ANY COMPONENTS ON YOUR SYSTEM. WE FULLY DOCUMENT CUSTOMER UPGRADES FOR FUTURE SUPPORT PURPOSES.
