Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Notice The company reserves the right to revise this publication or to change its contents without notice. Information contained herein is for reference only and does not constitute a commitment on the part of the manufacturer or any subsequent vendor.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Preface FCC Statement (Federal Communications Commission) This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS Follow basic safety precautions, including those listed below, to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons when using any electrical equipment: 1. Do not use this product near water, for example near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet basement or near a swimming pool. 2. Avoid using this equipment with a telephone line (other than a cordless type) during an electrical storm.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Preface Instructions for Care and Operation The notebook computer is quite rugged, but it can be damaged. To prevent this, follow these suggestions: 1. Don’t drop it, or expose it to shock. If the computer falls, the case and the components could be damaged. 2. Keep it dry, and don’t overheat it. Keep the computer and power supply away from any kind of heating ele¬ment. This is an electrical appliance.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Power Safety The computer has specific power requirements: • Only use a power adapter approved for use with this computer. • Your AC/DC adapter may be designed for international travel but it still requires a steady, uninterrupted power supply. If you are unsure of your local power specifications, consult your service representative or local power company. • The power adapter may have either a 2-prong or a 3-prong grounded plug.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Battery Precautions • Only use batteries designed for this computer. The wrong battery type may explode, leak or damage the computer. • Do not continue to use a battery that has been dropped, or that appears damaged (e.g. bent or twisted) in any way. Even if the computer continues to work with a damaged battery in place, it may cause circuit damage, which may possibly result in fire. • Recharge the batteries using the notebook’s system.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Cleaning Do not apply cleaner directly to the computer; use a soft clean cloth. Do not use volatile (petroleum distillates) or abrasive cleaners on any part of the computer. Servicing Do not attempt to service the computer yourself. Doing so may violate your warranty and expose you and the computer to electric shock. Refer all servicing to authorized service personnel. Unplug the computer from the power supply.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Travel Considerations Packing As you get ready for your trip, run through this list to make sure the system is ready to go: 1. Check that the battery pack and any spares are fully charged. 2. Power off the computer and peripherals. 3. Close the display panel and make sure it’s latched. 4. Disconnect the AC/DC adapter and cables. Stow them in the carrying bag. 5. The AC/DC adapter uses voltages from 100 to 240 volts so you won’t need a second voltage adapter.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference On the Road In addition to the general safety and maintenance suggestions in this preface, and Chapter 8: Troubleshooting, keep these points in mind: Hand-carry the notebook - For security, don’t let it out of your sight. In some areas, computer theft is very common. Don’t check it with normal luggage. Baggage handlers may not be sufficiently careful. Avoid knock¬ing the computer against hard objects.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Developing Good Work Habits Developing good work habits is important if you need to work in front of the computer for long periods of time. Improper work habits can result in discomfort or serious injury from repetitive strain to your hands, wrists or other joints. The following are some tips to reduce the strain: • Adjust the height of the chair and/or desk so that the keyboard is at or slightly below the level of your elbow.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Contents Notice, (1) FCC Statement, (2) Instructions for Care and Operation, (4) Power Safety, (5) Battery Precautions, (6) Cleaning, (7) Servicing, (7) Travel Considerations, (8) Quick Start Guide, (17) Overview, (17) Advanced Users, (18) Beginners and Not-So-Advanced Users, (18) Warning Boxes, (18) Not Included, (18) System Software, (19) System Startup, (20) System Map: Top View with LCD Panel Open, (21) LED Indicators, (23) AP-Key Buttons, (24) 3D Ap-Key But
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Inserting and Removing PC Cards, (41) TouchPad and Buttons/Mouse, (42) Audio Features, (43) Configuring the Infrared Settings for FIR, (44) Adding a Printer, (45) USB Printer, (45) Install Instructions, (45) Parallel Printer, (45) Power Management, (46) Overview, (46) Advanced Configuration and Power Interface, (46) The Power Sources, (47) AC/DC Adapter, (47) Battery, (47) Turning on the Computer, (48) Power Schemes, (49) System Power Options, (50) Hibernate Mode
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference LAN, (64) AP-Key Buttons, (65) TouchPad, (65) PCMCIA, (66) AMD Processor, (66) Module Drivers, (67) PC Camera, (67) Wireless LAN, (67) Bluetooth, (67) TV Tuner, (67) RAID, (67) BIOS Utilities, (68) Overview, (68) The Power-On Self Test (POST), (68) Failing the POST, (70) Fatal Errors, (70) Non-Fatal Errors, (70) The Setup Program, (71) Entering Setup, (71) Setup Screens, (71) Main Menu, (72) System Time & Date (Main Menu), (72) Primary Master/SATA Port 3/4 (Main
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Modules, (87) Overview, (87) PC Camera Module, (87) PC Camera Driver Installation, (87) PC Camera Audio Setup, (88) EMAMCAP, (90) The Wireless LAN & Bluetooth Modules, (92) Mini-PCI Wireless LAN Module, (93) Intel WLAN Driver Installation, (93) MSI 6833B WLAN Driver Installation, (94) Bluetooth Module, (95) Bluetooth Driver Installation, (95) Mini-PCI TV Tuner Module, (96) AverMedia Mini-PCI TV Tuner Module, (97) Installing the AverTV Utility Software, (97) Install
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Specifications, (131) Latest Specification Information, (131) 15
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference 16
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Chapter 1: Quick Start Guide Overview This Quick Start Guide is a brief introduction to the basic features of your computer, to navigating around the computer and to getting your system started. The remainder of the manual covers the following: • Chapter 2 The Storage Devices (hard disk, optical device, Card Reader, PC Card), Mouse, Audio & Printer. • Chapter 3 The computer’s power saving options.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Advanced Users If you are an advanced user you may skip over most of this Quick Start Guide. However you may find it useful to refer to “Drivers & Utilities” on page 4 - 1, “BIOS Utilities” on page 5 - 1 and “Upgrading The Computer” on page 6 - 1 in the User’s Manual. You may also find the notes marked with a of interest to you.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference properly configured (your service representative may have already done that for you.), refer to “What to Install” on page 4-1 for installation instructions. Ports and Jacks See “Ports and Jacks” on page A-2 for a description of the interface (ports & jacks) which allow your computer to communicate with external devices, connect to the internet, etc. System Software Your computer may already come with system software pre-installed.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference System Startup 1. LCD Latches 2. LED Power & Communication Figure 1 - 1 - Top Panel with LCD Closed 1. Remove all packing materials. 2. Place the computer on a stable surface. 3. Securely attach any peripherals you want to use with the notebook (e.g. keyboard and mouse) to their ports. 4. Attach the AC/DC adapter to the DC-In jack at the rear of the computer, then plug the AC power cord into an outlet, and connect the AC power cord to the AC/DC adapter. 5.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference System Map: Top View with LCD Panel Open Figure 1 -2 - Top View with LCD Panel Open LED Indicators Table 1 - 2 - LED Power & Communication Indicators 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Table 1 - 1 - LED Status Indicators Icon Color Description Green The (optional) PC Camera is powered On Green The (optional) Bluetooth Module is powered On Green The (optional) Wireless LAN Module is powered On Green Hard Disk Activity Green Number Lock Activated Green Caps Lock Activated Green Scroll Lock Activated (to activate press Fn & Scr Lk) Orange DC Power is Plugged In Table 1 - 2 - LED Power & Communication Indicators Icon Color Descrip
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference AP-Key Buttons These buttons power on/off the optional PC Camera and Bluetooth modules, access the internet and e-mail, and enable/disable high performance video.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Function Keys & Numeric Keypad The keyboard has an embedded numerical keypad for easy numeric data input (see Figure 1 - 2 on page 1 8). Activate the Number Lock feature by pressing the Num Lk key at the top right of the keyboard. You may check if Number Lock is enabled or not by looking at the LED status indicators.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Figure 1 - 2 - Keyboard Other Keyboards If your keyboard is damaged or you jsut want to make a change, you can use any standard USB keyboard. The system will detect and enable it automatically. However, special functions/hot keys unique to the system’s regular keyboard may not work.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference System Map: Front & Rear Views Figure 1 - 3 Front & Rear Views 1. LCD Latches 2. Consumer Infrared Transceiver* 3. 7-Pin S-Video-Out Jack 4. DVI-Out Port 5. DC-In Jack 6. Vent/Fan Intake 7. RJ-11 Phone Jack 8. 2 * USB 2.0 Ports 9. Serial Port 10. S-Video-In Jack* 11.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference 7-Pin S-Video-Out Jack The 7-pin S-Video requires an adapter cable (7-pin S-Video plug to 4-pin S-Video jack adapter) in order to connect to a standard S-Video cable (the y-cable pictured includes a yellow composite video jack) 27
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference System Map: Left View Figure 1 - 4 Left View 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. S/PDIF-Out Jack Line-In Jack (see page A -3) Microphone-In Jack Headphone-Out Jack Optical Device Drive Bay (for CD/DVD Device) CD Emergency Eject If you need to manually eject a CD/DVD (e.g. due to an unexpected power interruption) you may push the end of a straightened paper clip into the emergency eject hole. Do not use a sharpened pencil or similar object that may break and become lodged in the hole.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference System Map: Right View Figure 1-5 Right View Right View 1. PC Card Slot 2. Mini-IEEE 1394a Port 3. 3 * USB 2.0 Ports 4. TV Antenna Jack* 5. 4-in-1 Card Reader 6. Infrared Transceiver (see page 2 - 10) 7.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference System Map: Bottom View Figure 1 -6 - Bottom View 1. Battery 2. Battery Release Latch 3. CD/DVD Device Release Latch 4. Hard Disk Bay Cover 5. Vent/Fan Intake 6. Sub Woofer 7. Component Bay Cover 8. Speakers CPU The CPU is not a user serviceable part. Opening this compartment, or accessing the CPU in any way, may violate your warranty. Battery Information Always completely discharge, then fully charge, a new battery before using it.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Windows Vista Start Menu & Control Panel Most of the control panels, utilities and programs within Windows Vista (and most other Windows versions) are accessed from the Start menu. When you install programs and utilities they will be installed on your hard disk drive, and a shortcut will usually be placed in the Start menu and/or the desktop. Right-click the Start menu icon , and then select Properties if you want to customize the appearance of the Start menu.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Video Features This computer features an NVIDIA Scalable Link Interface (SLI) that improves graphic quality and performance by combining dual NVIDIA GPUs in a single system to allow the two graphics cards to run in parallel. You can switch display devices, and configure display options, from the Display Properties control panel in Windows as long as the appropriate video driver is installed. To access Display Properties in Windows: 1.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Figure 1 -8 - Display Properties Desktop 33
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Power Options The Power Options (Hardware and Sound menu) control panel icon in Windows (see page 1 - 16) allows you to configure power management features for your computer. You can conserve power by means of power plans and configure the options for the power button, sleep button, computer lid (when closed), display and sleep mode from the left menu. Note that the power saver plan may have an affect on computer performance.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Chapter 2: Storage Devices, Mouse, Audio & Printer Overview Read this chapter to learn more about the following main features and components of the computer: •Hard Disk Drive • Optical Device • 4-in-1 Card Reader •PC Card Slot • TouchPad and Buttons/Mouse • Audio Features • Configuring the Infrared Settings for FIR • Adding a Printer Hard Disk Drive The hard disk drive is used to store your data in the computer.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Optical Device There is a bay for a 5.25” optical (CD/DVD) device (12.7mm height). The actual de¬vice will depend on the model you purchased (see “Storage Options” on page C 3). The optical device is usually labeled “Drive D:” and may be used as a boot de¬vice if properly set in the BIOS (see “Boot Menu” on page 5 - 12). Loading Discs To insert a CD/DVD, press the open button 1.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Handling CDs or DVDs Proper handling of your CDs/DVDs will prevent them from being damaged. Please follow the advice below to make sure that the data stored on your CDs/DVDs can be accessed. Note the following: • Hold the CD or DVD by the edges; do not touch the surface of the disc. • Use a clean, soft, dry cloth to remove dust or fingerprints. • Do not write on the surface with a pen. • Do not attach paper or other materials to the surface of the disc.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference DVD Regional Codes To change the DVD regional codes see “Changing DVD Regional Codes” on page 1 - 10. DVD Regional Coding Region Geographical Location 1 USA, Canada 2 Western Europe, Japan, South Africa, Middle East & Egypt 3 South-East Asia, Taiwan, South Korea, The Philippines, Indonesia, Hong Kong 4 South & Central America, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand 5 N.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference 4-in-1 Card Reader The card reader allows you to use some of the latest digital storage cards. Push the card into the slot and it will appear as a removable device. • MMC (MultiMedia Card) • SD (Secure Digital) • MS (Memory Stick) • MS Pro (Memory Stick Pro) Figure 2 - 4 Right View 1. Card Reader Card Reader Cover Make sure you keep the cover in the card reader when not in use. This will help prevent foreign object and/or dust getting in to the card reader.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference PC Card Slot The computer is equipped with a PCMCIA 3.3V/5V slot for one type II PC Card. Inserting and Removing PC Cards • Align the PC Card with the slot and push it in until it locks into place. • To remove a PC Card, simply press the eject button 1. next to the slot.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference TouchPad and Buttons/Mouse The TouchPad is an alternative to the mouse; however, you can also add a mouse to your computer through one of the USB ports. The TouchPad buttons function in much the same way as a two-button mouse. The central button may be configured to function as you require. Once you have installed the TouchPad driver (see page 4 - 10) you can configure the functions by double-clicking the TouchPad driver icon in the taskbar.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Audio Features You can configure the audio options on your computer from the Sound control panel in Windows. Figure 2-7 AC97 Audio Configuration Menus Sound Volume Adjustment How high the sound volume can be set depends on the setting of the volume control within Windows. Click the Volume icon on the taskbar to check the setting.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Adding a Printer The most commonly used peripheral is a printer. The following conventions will help you to add a printer, however it is always best to refer to the printer manual for specific instructions and configuration options. USB Printer Most new printers have a USB interface connection. You may use any one of the ports to connect the printer. Install Instructions: 1.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Chapter 3: Power Management Overview To conserve power, especially when using the battery, your computer uses the ACPI power management system. Power management conserves power by controlling in¬dividual components of the computer (the monitor and hard disk drive) or the whole system.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference The Power Sources The computer can be powered by either an AC/DC adapter or a battery pack. AC/DC Adapter Use only the AC/DC adapter that comes with your computer. The wrong type of AC/ DC adapter will damage the computer and its components (see page C - 5). 1. Attach the AC/DC adapter to the DC-In jack at the rear of the computer. 2. Plug the AC power cord into an outlet, and then connect the AC power cord to the AC/DC adapter. 3.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Turning on the Computer Now you are ready to begin using your computer. To turn it on simply press the power button on the front panel. When the computer is on, you can use the power button as a Stand by/Hibernate/ Shutdown hot-key button when it is pressed for less than 4 seconds (pressing and holding the power button for longer than this will shut the computer down). Use Power Options in the Windows control panel to configure this feature.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Power Plans The computer can be configured to conserve power by means of power plans. You can use (or modify) an existing power plan, or create a new one. The settings may be adjusted to set the display to turn off after a specified time, and to send the computer into Sleep after a period of inactivity. Click Change plan settings and then click Change advanced power settings to access further configuration options in Advanced Settings.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Each Windows power plan will also adjust the processor performance of your machine in order to save power. This is worth bearing in mind if you are experiencing any reduced performance (especially under DC/battery power). Choose High performance for maximum performance when the computer is powered from an AC power source.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference System Power Options You can use the system power options to stop the computer’s operation and restartwhere you left off. The system features Sleep and Hibernate power saving states (Hibernate will need to be enabled from power plan Advanced Settings see Figure 3 - 1 on page 3 - 4). Hibernate vs. Shutdown Hibernate and Shut Down are the same in that the system is off and you need to press the power button to turn it on.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Sleep The Sleep Button in the Start Menu (not available in Classic View) can be used to send the computer into Sleep. Note that Sleep is the default power saving state in Windows Vista. Sleep uses very little system power, and takes a short time to return to full operation. After an extended period of time in Sleep the computer will save the contents of system memory (e.g. any open documents and applications) to the hard disk and shut the system down.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Configuring the Power Button The power/sleep button (Fn + F4 key combo ///////// ) and closed lid may be set to send the computer in to either Sleep or Hibernate. In Sleep, the LED will blink green. In Hibernate the LED will be off (battery) or orange (AC/DC adapter). If the only the display is turned off, the LED will remain green.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Battery Information Please follow these simple guidelines to get the best use out of your battery. Battery Power Your computer’s battery power is dependent upon many factors, including the programs you are running, and peripheral devices attached. You can set actions to be taken (e.g. Shut down, Hibernate etc.), and set critical and low battery levels from power plan Advanced Settings (see Figure 3 - 1 on page 3 - 4). Click the battery icon status.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Conserving Battery Power • Use a power plan that conserves power (e.g Power saver), however note that this may have an affect on computer performance. • Lower the brightness level of the LCD display. The system will decrease LCD brightness slightly to save power when it is not powered by the AC/ DC adapter. • Reduce the amount of time before the display is turned off.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Battery Life Battery life may be shortened through improper maintenance. To optimize the life and improve its performance, fully discharge and recharge the battery at least once every 30 days. We recommend that you do not remove the battery yourself. If you do need to remove the battery for any reason see “Removing the Battery” on page 6 - 3.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Caution Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Damaged Battery Warning Should you notice any physical defects (e.g. the battery is bent out of shape after being dropped), or any unusual smells emanating from the notebook battery, shut your computer down immediately and contact your service center.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Battery FAQ How do I completely discharge the battery? Use the computer with battery power until it shuts down due to a low battery. Don’t turn off the computer even if a message indicates the battery is critically low, just let the computer use up all of the battery power and shut down on its own. 1. Save and close all files and applications. 2. Create a power plan for discharging the battery and set all the options to Never. 3.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference 4. Click Change plan settings (after saving it) and click Change advanced power settings. 5. Scroll down to Battery and click + to expand the battery options. 6.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference 3D Ap-Key Button The system will default to high performance video when powered by the AC/DC adapter (the 3D Ap-Key button will be illuminated in blue). If you switch from AC power to battery power the system will automatically change to a lower performance video mode setting in order to save power. High Performance Video can not be enabled when the system is battery powered (see “3D Ap-Key Button” on page 1- 7).
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Chapter 5: BIOS Utilities Overview Overview This chapter gives a brief introduction to the computer’s built-in software: Diagnostics: The POST (Power-On Self Test) Configuration: The Setup utility If your computer has never been set up, or you are making important changes to the system (e.g. hard disk setup), then you should review this chapter first and note the original settings found in Setup.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference The Power-On Self Test (POST) Each time you turn on the computer, the system takes a few seconds to conduct a POST, including a quick test of the on-board RAM (memory). As the POST proceeds, the computer will tell you if there is anything wrong. If there is a problem that prevents the system from booting, it will display a system summary and prompt you to run Setup.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Failing the POST Errors can be detected during the POST. There are two categories, “fatal” and “non¬fatal”. Fatal Errors These stop the boot process and usually indicate there is something seriously wrong with your system. Take the computer to your service representative or authorized service center as soon as possible. Non-Fatal Errors This kind of error still allows you to boot.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference The Setup Program The Phoenix Setup program tells the system how to configure itself and manage ba¬sic features and subsystems (e.g. port configuration). Entering Setup To enter Setup, turn on the computer and press F2 during the POST. The prompt (Press F2 to Enter Setup) seen in Figure 5 - 1 on page 5 - 2 is usually present for a few seconds after you turn on the system.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Main Menu Figure 5 - 2 Main Menu System Time & Date (Main Menu) The hour setting uses the 24-hour system (i.e., ØØ = midnight; 13 = 1 pm). If you can change the date and time settings in your operating system, you will also change these settings. Some applications may also alter data files to reflect these changes.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Advanced Menu Figure 5 - 3 Advanced Menu Advanced Chipset Control (Advanced Menu) Pressing Enter here will access the sub-menu which allows you to disable the audio and modem devices if required; and you can also Enable/Disable the RAID function from this menu. I/O Device Configuration (Advanced Menu) The sub-menus under this item allow you to enable/disable the Serial port A (Serial Mouse), and FIR (Infrared) transceiver.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Security Menu Figure 5 - 4 Security Menu Set Supervisor Password (Security Menu) You can set a password for access to the Setup utility. This will not affect access to the computer OS, (only the Setup utility) unless you choose to set a Password on Boot (see over). Password on boot: (Security Menu) Specify whether or not a password should be entered to boot the computer.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Password Warning If you set a boot password (Password on boot is “Enabled”). NEVER forget your password. The consequences of this could be serious. If you cannot remember your boot password you must contact your vendor and you may lose all of the information on your hard disk.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Boot Menu Figure 5 - 5 Boot Menu When you turn the computer on it will look for an operating system (e.g. WindowsXP) from the devices listed in this menu, and in this priority order. If it cannot find the operating system on that device, it will try to load it from the next device in the order specified in the Boot priority order. Item specific help on the right is available to help you move devices up and down the order.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Exit Menu Figure 5 - 6 Exit Menu Choosing to Discard Changes, or Exit Discarding Changes, will wipe out any changes you have made to the Setup. You can also choose to restore the original Setup defaults that will return the Setup to its original state, and erase any previous changes you have made in a previous session.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Chapter 6: Upgrading The Computer Overview This chapter contains information on upgrading the computer. Follow the steps outlined to make the desired upgrades. If you have any trouble or problems you can contact your service representative for further help.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Upgrading the Processor If you want to upgrade your computer by replacing the existing processor with a faster/ new one you will need to contact your customer service representative. We recommend that you do not do this yourself, since if it is done incorrectly you may damage the processor or mainboard Removing the Battery If you are confident in undertaking upgrade procedures yourself, for safety reasons it is best to remove the battery. 1.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Upgrading the Hard Disk Drive(s) The hard disk drive(s) can be taken out to accommodate other 2.5” serial (SATA II) hard disk drives with a height of 9.5mm (h) (see “Storage Options” on page C - 3). Follow your operating system’s installation instructions, and install all necessary drivers and utilities when setting up a new hard disk. HDD System Warning New HDD’s are blank. Before you begin make sure: You have backed up any data you want to keep from your old HDD.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference 1. Turn off the computer, and turn it over and remove the battery. 2. Locate the hard disk bay cover and remove screws 3. Remove the bay cover Figure 6 - 2 HDD Bay Cover Removal 4. 5. 6. 7. Slide the hard disk assembly in the direction of the arrow Remove the hard disk assembly Remove screws and separate the bracket from the hard disk Reverse the process to install a new hard disk(s).
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Upgrading the System Memory (RAM) The computer has two memory sockets for 200 pin Small Outline Dual In-line (SO¬DIMM) DDR type memory modules (see “Memory” on page C -2). The total mem¬ory size is automatically detected by the POST routine once you turn on your com¬puter. 1. Turn off the computer, and turn it over and remove the battery. 2. Locate the component bay cover and remove screws Figure 6 - 4 Bay Cover Screws 3. Remove the bay cover.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference 4. Gently pull the release latches (15 & 16) on the sides of the memory socket in the direction indicated by the arrows in Figure 6 - 6. Figure 6 - 6 RAM Module Release 5. The RAM module will pop-up, and you can remove it.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference 6. Pull the latches to release the second module if necessary. 7. Insert a new module holding it at about a 30° angle and fit the connectors firmly into the memory socket. 8. The module’s pin alignment will allow it to only fit one way. Make sure the module is seated as far into the socket as it will go. DO NOT FORCE the module; it should fit without much pressure. 9.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Upgrading the Optical (CD/DVD) Device(s) 1. Turn the computer off, turn it over and remove the battery. 2. Slide the latch towards the unlock symbol and hold it in place. 3.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Removing the Video Card(s) 1. Turn off the computer, and turn it over and remove the battery. 2. Locate the component bay cover and remove screws 3. Remove the bay cover. Figure 6 - 9 Bay Cover Removal 4. Remove screws. 5. Carefully (a cable is still connected) grip the plastic tag and lift the video card up. 6. Disconnect cable , and lift the video card off the computer.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Chapter 7: Modules Overview This chapter contains the information on the various modules (some of which are optional) which may come with your computer, depending on the configuration purchased. If you are unsure please contact your service representative.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference The Wireless LAN If your purchase option includes a Wireless LAN be sure that you install the proper driver provided with the Support Disc. Pay careful attention to the warnings concerning the use of wireless modules aboard aircraft, and the instructions on enabling/ disabling power to the module(s).
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Chapter 8: Troubleshooting Overview Should you have any problems with your computer, before consulting your service representative, you may want to try to solve the problem yourself. This chapter lists some common problems and their possible solutions. This can’t anticipate every problem, but you should check here before you panic.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Backup and General Maintenance • Always backup your important data, and keep copies of your OS and programs safe, but close to hand. Don’t forget to note the serial numbers if you are storing them out of their original cases, e.g. in a CD wallet. • Run maintenance programs on your hard disk and OS as often as you can. You may schedule these programs to run at times when you are not using your computer.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Upgrading and Adding New Hardware/Software • Do not be tempted to make changes to your Windows Registry unless you are very sure of what you are doing, otherwise you will risk severely damaging your system. • Don’t open your computer or undertake any repair or upgrade work if you are not comfortable with what you are doing. • Read the documentation.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Problems & Possible Solutions Problem Possible Cause - Solution You turned the power on but it doesn’t work. Battery missing / incorrectly installed. Check the battery bay, make sure the battery is present and seated properly (the design of the battery only allows it to go in one way). Make sure there’s nothing interfering with the battery contacts. The Battery LED power indicator , is blinking orange. Low Battery. Plugin the AC power source.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Problem Possible Cause - Solution You forget the boot password. If you forget the password, you may have to discharge the battery of the CMOS. Contact your service representative for help. Password Warning If you choose to set a boot password, NEVER forget your password. The consequences of this could be serious.If you cannot remember your boot password you must contact your vendor and you may lose all of the information on your hard disk.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Appendix A: Interface (Ports & Jacks) Overview The following chapter will give a quick description of the ports & jacks which allow your computer to commu¬nicate with external devices, connect to the internet etc. Ports and Jacks Icon Description The built-in microphone allows you to record on your computer .
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Icon Description This port connects to the built-in modem You may plug the telephone line directly into this RJ-11telephone connection. RJ-11 Phone Jack Note: Broadband (e.g. ADSL) modem susually connect to the LAN port. This port supports LAN (Network) functions. RJ-45 LAN Jack S/PDIF-Out Jack Security Lock Slot Note: Broadband (e.g. ADSL)modems usually connect to the LAN port.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Icon Infrared (FIR) Transceiver Line-In Jack Description The FIR (far infrared) transceiver on the right of the computer allows the computer to communicate with similarly equipped devices (see “Configuring the Infrared Settings for “FIR”on page 2- 12). The Line-In jack allows you to play audio sources through the computer’s speakers. Note that audio input through Line-in will default to the mute setting.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Appendix B: Specifications Latest Specification Information The specifications listed in this Appendix are correct at the timeof going to press. Certain items (particularly processor types/speeds and CD/DVD Device types) maybe changed or updated due to the manufacturer’s release schedule. Check with your service center for details. Feature Processor Types Specifications Mobile AMD Turion™ 64 Processor (35W), 754-pin Micro-PGA Package Models ML-28/ ML-32 ( µ0.
Alienware Aurora mALX Technical Reference Feature PCMCIA I/O Ports Communication Specifications OneType II PCMCIA 3.3V/5V Socket Five USB 2.0 Ports One Mini-IEEE1394a Port One Serial Port One Infrared Transceiver (IrDA 1.
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