Alienware Area-51 R3 Threadripper Edition Service Manual
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Alienware Area-51 R3 Threadripper Edition Service Manual

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Alienware Area-51 R3
Threadripper Edition
Service Manual
Computer Model: Alienware Area-51 R3
Regulatory Model: D03X
Regulatory Type: D03X003
Table of Contents
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Summary of Contents for Alienware Area-51 R3 Threadripper Edition

  • Page 1 Alienware Area-51 R3 Threadripper Edition Service Manual Computer Model: Alienware Area-51 R3 Regulatory Model: D03X Regulatory Type: D03X003...
  • Page 2 Notes, cautions, and warnings NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your product. CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Before working inside your computer..... 14 ...............14 Before you begin ..............14 Safety instructions ..............15 Recommended tools .................. 16 Screw list After working inside your computer......20 Technical overview............ 21 ............21 Inside view of your computer ................22 Left view ................
  • Page 4 Replacing the side panels.........35 ................. 35 Procedure Removing the battery..........36 ................36 Prerequisites ................. 36 Procedure Replacing the battery..........38 ................. 38 Procedure ................38 Post-requisites Removing the battery case........39 ................39 Prerequisites ................. 39 Procedure Replacing the battery case........41 .................
  • Page 5 Replacing the optical drive........49 ................. 49 Procedure ................49 Post-requisites Removing the right AlienFX side-panel connector..............50 ................50 Prerequisites ................. 50 Procedure Replacing the right AlienFX side-panel connector..............53 ................. 53 Procedure ................53 Post-requisites Removing the left AlienFX side-panel connector... 54 ................
  • Page 6 Removing the drive-bay heat sensor cable.....63 ................63 Prerequisites ................. 63 Procedure Replacing the drive-bay heat sensor cable.....66 ................. 66 Procedure ................66 Post-requisites Removing the memory modules......67 ................67 Prerequisites ................. 67 Procedure Replacing the memory modules......69 ................. 69 Procedure ................70 Post-requisites...
  • Page 7 Removing the full-length graphics cards....81 ................81 Prerequisites ................. 81 Procedure Replacing the full-length graphics cards....85 ................. 85 Procedure ................85 Post-requisites Removing the wireless card........86 ................86 Prerequisites ................. 86 Procedure Replacing the wireless card........88 ................. 88 Procedure ................88 Post-requisites...
  • Page 8 Removing the logo board......... 95 ................95 Prerequisites ................. 95 Procedure Replacing the logo board..........98 ................. 98 Procedure ................98 Post-requisites Removing the solid-state drive........ 99 ................99 Prerequisites ................. 99 Procedure Replacing the solid-state drive.......101 ................101 Procedure .................102 Post-requisites Removing the PCI fan..........103 ................
  • Page 9 Removing the processor liquid-cooling assembly..............112 ................112 Prerequisites ................112 Procedure Replacing the processor liquid-cooling assembly..............115 ................115 Procedure ................. 116 Post-requisites Removing the processor.........117 ................117 Prerequisites ................117 Procedure Replacing the processor......... 119 ................119 Procedure .................121 Post-requisites Removing the power-supply unit......122 ................122 Prerequisites ................
  • Page 10 Replacing the system board........132 ................132 Procedure .................132 Post-requisites Removing the handle bars........134 ................134 Prerequisites ................135 Procedure Replacing the handle bars........141 ................141 Procedure .................141 Post-requisites Removing the front bezel ........142 ................142 Prerequisites ................143 Procedure Replacing the front bezel........
  • Page 11 Replacing the rear bezel......... 159 ................159 Procedure .................159 Post-requisites Removing the base panel........160 ................160 Prerequisites ................161 Procedure Replacing the base panel........165 ................165 Procedure .................165 Post-requisites Removing the top tron-lighting cable....166 ................166 Prerequisites ................166 Procedure Replacing the top tron-lighting cable....
  • Page 12 Replacing the antenna cables........ 179 ................179 Procedure .................179 Post-requisites Downloading drivers..........180 ............ 180 Downloading the audio driver ..........180 Downloading the graphics driver ..........181 Downloading the USB 3.0 driver .............181 Downloading the Wi-Fi driver ..........181 Downloading the chipset driver ..........182 Downloading the network driver BIOS setup program..........183...
  • Page 13 ..........196 Running the ePSA diagnostics ................197 Diagnostics ..............197 Wi-Fi power cycle Getting help and contacting Alienware....198 ..............198 Self-help resources ..............198 Contacting Alienware...

  • Page 14: Before Working Inside Your Computer

    Before working inside your computer NOTE: The images in this document may differ from your computer depending on the configuration you ordered. Before you begin Save and close all open files and exit all open applications. Shut down your computer. Click Start → Power →...

  • Page 15: Recommended Tools

    WARNING: Disconnect all power sources before opening the computer cover or panels. After you finish working inside the computer, replace all covers, panels, and screws before connecting to the electrical outlet. CAUTION: To avoid damaging the computer, ensure that the work surface is flat and clean.

  • Page 16: Screw List

    • Allen screw 2.5 mm • Flat-head screwdriver • Plastic scribe Screw list The following table provides the list of screws that are used for securing different components. Table 1. Screw list Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image Stability foot Computer #6-32x6...
  • Page 17 Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image Right AlienFX Chassis #6-32x6 side-panel connector assembly Right AlienFX Bracket #6-32x6 side-panel connector Left AlienFX Chassis #6-32x6 side-panel connector assembly Left AlienFX Bracket #6-32x6 side-panel connector I/O board Chassis #6-32x6 Graphics card Chassis #6-32x6 (multiple, full-...
  • Page 18 Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image Logo board Bracket #6-32x6 Solid-state System board M2x2.5 drive PCI fan Chassis M3x5.25 Fan shroud PCI fan M5x10 Processor Chassis #6-32x6 liquid-cooling assembly Power-supply Chassis #6-32x6 unit System-board Chassis #6-32x6 Rear-handle Chassis #6-32x6.5 Front-handle Chassis...
  • Page 19 Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image Front bezel Chassis #6-32x6 Front bezel Chassis 6-32x5.2 Optical-drive Chassis #6-32x6 eject-button board Rear bezel Chassis #6-32x6 Rear bezel Chassis M3x5 Base panel Chassis #6-32x6 Base panel Chassis #6-32x6 Antennas Chassis #6-32x6...

  • Page 20: After Working Inside Your Computer

    After working inside your computer CAUTION: Leaving stray or loose screws inside your computer may severely damage your computer. Replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside your computer. Connect any external devices, peripherals, or cables you removed before working on your computer.

  • Page 21: Technical Overview

    Technical overview WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 22: Left View

    Left view Figure 1. Left view processor liquid-cooling assembly- graphics card system board power-supply unit AlienFX side-panel connector PCI fan processor liquid-cooling assembly memory modules pump top fan...

  • Page 23: Right View

    Right view Figure 2. Right view optical drive (ODD) I/O board (IO BRD) drive-bay heat-sensor 2.5-inch drive bracket (HDD4/ HDD5) AlienFX side-panel connector rear I/O accessibility lighting batteries 3.5-inch drive bracket (HDD1) 3.5-inch drive bracket (HDD2) 3.5-inch drive bracket (HDD3)

  • Page 24: System-Board Components

    System-board components processor-power connector (CPU processor liquid-cooling PWR1) assembly pump-fan connector (PUMP_FAN1)
  • Page 25 processor liquid cooling-assembly audio connector (FP_AUDIO1) fan (LCM_FAN1) PCI-Express slot (SLOT1) CMOS reset jumper (CMOS_CLR) coin-cell battery socket (BAT1) PCI-Express slot (SLOT3) PCI-Express slot (SLOT4) WLAN connector (M2_WLAN1) PCI-Express slot (SLOT5) PCI-Express slot (SLOT6) solid-state drive slot (M2_SSD1) PCI-Express slot (SLOT7) low pin count debug header LED Power Switch (PANEL1) (LPC1)

  • Page 26: I/O-Board Components

    I/O-board components NOTE: The location of the connectors may vary based on the selections you made at the time of purchase. Figure 3. I/O-board components rear I/O accessibility lighting rear I/O accessibility lighting battery connector (VBAT1) connector (PORCH_LIGHT1) left theater-lighting connector right theater-lighting connector (POGO_IN_L1) (POGO_IN_R1)

  • Page 27: Lifting The Computer

    Lifting the computer Procedure With both hands, hold the handle on top of the computer.
  • Page 28 Lift the computer. Figure 4. Lifting the computer handle computer...

  • Page 29: Removing The Stability Foot

    Removing the stability foot WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 30 Lift the stability foot off the computer. Figure 6. Removing the stability foot stability foot screws (2) computer...
  • Page 31 Tilt the computer back to the upright position. Figure 7. Tilt the computer to upright position...

  • Page 32: Replacing The Stability Foot

    Replacing the stability foot WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 33: Removing The Side Panels

    Removing the side panels WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 34 Pull and lift the right side-panel away from the chassis. Figure 8. Removing the side panel screw security-cable slot latch release panel right side-panel Repeat the procedure from step 2 to step 3 on the left side-panel.

  • Page 35: Replacing The Side Panels

    Replacing the side panels WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 36: Removing The Battery

    Removing the battery WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 37 Slide and open the battery-case door and remove the batteries from the battery case. Figure 9. Removing the batteries screw battery-case door AA batteries (2)

  • Page 38: Replacing The Battery

    Replacing the battery WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 39: Removing The Battery Case

    Removing the battery case WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 40 Lift the battery case off the chassis. Figure 10. Remove the battery-case battery-case cable battery-case connector battery case screws (2)

  • Page 41: Replacing The Battery Case

    Replacing the battery case WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 42: Removing The Hard Drive

    Removing the hard drive WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 43 Using the tab, slide and remove the hard-drive assembly (HDD1) from the chassis. Figure 11. Removing the hard drive power cable data cable chassis screw hard-drive assembly (HDD1) Remove the four screws (#6-32x3.6) that secure the hard-drive bracket to the hard drive.
  • Page 44 Slide and remove the hard drive from the hard-drive bracket. NOTE: Repeat step 2 to step 6 to remove any other hard drives (HDD2 and HDD3) installed in your computer. Figure 12. Removing the hard-drive bracket screws (4) hard drive hard-drive bracket...

  • Page 45: Replacing The Hard Drive

    Replacing the hard drive WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 46: Removing The Optical Drive

    Removing the optical drive WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 47 Slide and lift the optical-drive assembly off the chassis. Figure 13. Removing the optical-drive assembly screw optical-drive assembly data cable and power cable Remove the two screws (M2x3) that secure the optical-drive bracket to the optical drive.
  • Page 48 Slide and remove the optical drive from the optical-drive bracket. Figure 14. Removing the optical drive screws (2) optical drive optical-drive bracket...

  • Page 49: Replacing The Optical Drive

    Replacing the optical drive WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 50: Removing The Right Alienfx Side-Panel Connector

    Removing the right AlienFX side- panel connector WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 51 Remove the right AlienFX side-panel connector assembly from the chassis. Figure 15. Image: Right AlienFX connector removal screw right AlienFX side-panel connector assembly right AlienFX side-panel right AlienFX side-panel cable connector Remove the two screws (#6-32x6) that secure the right AlienFX side-panel connector to the bracket.
  • Page 52 Remove the cable routing through the slot on the bracket and lift the right AlienFX side-panel connector off the bracket. Figure 16. Image: Right AlienFX connector removal screws (2) right AlienFX side-panel connector...

  • Page 53: Replacing The Right Alienfx Side-Panel Connector

    Replacing the right AlienFX side- panel connector WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 54: Removing The Left Alienfx Side-Panel Connector

    Removing the left AlienFX side- panel connector WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 55 Disconnect the cable that connects the left AlienFX side-panel connector to the I/O board. See “I/O-board components”. Figure 17. Image: Left AlienFX connector removal left AlienFX side-panel left AlienFX side-panel connector cable I/O board Turn the chassis over. Remove the AlienFX side-panel cable through the routing guides on the chassis.
  • Page 56 Remove the left AlienFX side-panel connector assembly from the chassis. Figure 18. Image: Left AlienFX connector removal screw left AlienFX side-panel connector assembly Remove the two screws (#6-32x6) that secure the AlienFX side-panel connector to the bracket.
  • Page 57 Remove the cable routing through the slot on the bracket and lift the left AlienFX side-panel connector off the bracket. Figure 19. Image: Left AlienFX connector removal screw left AlienFX side-panel connector...

  • Page 58: Replacing The Left Alienfx Side-Panel Connector

    Replacing the left AlienFX side- panel connector WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 59: Removing The I/O Board

    Removing the I/O board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 60 Disconnect all cables from the I/O board. NOTE: Note the routing of all cables as you remove them so that you can route them correctly after you replace the I/O board. Figure 20. Removing the I/O board cables I/O board Remove the five screws (#6-32x6) that secure the I/O board to the chassis.
  • Page 61 Slide and lift the I/O board out of the chassis. Figure 21. Removing the I/O board I/O board screws (5)

  • Page 62: Replacing The I/O Board

    Replacing the I/O board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 63: Removing The Drive-Bay Heat Sensor Cable

    Removing the drive-bay heat sensor cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 64 Disconnect the drive-bay heat-sensor cable from the system board. Figure 22. Removing the drive-bay heat-sensor cable drive-bay heat-sensor drive-bay heat-sensor cable connector Turn the chassis over. Remove the cable through the slot on the chassis. Locate the drive-bay heat-sensor. See “right view”.
  • Page 65 Push the release tab and pry the drive-bay heat-sensor cable off the chassis. Figure 23. Removing the drive-bay heat-sensor cable release tab drive-bay heat-sensor cable...

  • Page 66: Replacing The Drive-Bay Heat Sensor Cable

    Replacing the drive-bay heat sensor cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 67: Removing The Memory Modules

    Removing the memory modules WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 68 Remove the memory module from the memory-module slot. NOTE: Repeat step 2 to step 4 to remove any other memory modules installed in your computer. Figure 24. Removing the memory module securing clip memory-module slot memory module...

  • Page 69: Replacing The Memory Modules

    Replacing the memory modules WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 70: Post-Requisites

    Post-requisites Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Replacing the side panels”. Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 71: Removing The Graphics Card

    Removing the graphics card WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 72 Press the release tabs on the power-cable connectors to disconnect the power cables from the graphics card. NOTE: The location of the power supply connector (PCIE1, PCIE2 and PCIE3) varies depending on the video card installed. Figure 25. Removing the graphics card screw cover screws (2) graphics card...
  • Page 73 Press and hold the securing tab on the graphics-card connector, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease the card out of the slot. Figure 26. Removing the graphics card graphics card securing tab...

  • Page 74: Replacing The Graphics Card

    Replacing the graphics card WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 75: Removing Multiple Graphics Cards

    Removing multiple graphics cards WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 76 Lift the graphics bridge that connects the graphics cards. Figure 27. Removing the graphics bridge graphics bridge Starting with the graphics card on the PCI-Express card connector (SLOT1), press and push the screw covers covering the screws that secure the graphics card.
  • Page 77 Press the release tabs on the power-cable connectors to disconnect the power cables from the graphics card. NOTE: The location of the power supply connector (PCIE1, PCIE2 and PCIE3) varies depending on the video card installed. Figure 28. Removing multiple graphics cards screw cover screws (2) power cables (2)
  • Page 78 Press and hold the securing tab on the card connector, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease the card out of the card connector. Figure 29. Removing multiple graphics cards graphics card securing tab Repeat steps 2 to 7 to remove graphics card on the PCI-Express card connector (SLOT4) and PCI-Express x16 card connector (SLOT7).

  • Page 79: Replacing Multiple Graphics Cards

    Replacing multiple graphics cards WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 80 Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 81: Removing The Full-Length Graphics Cards

    Removing the full-length graphics cards WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 82 Pull the clamp away from the bracket. Figure 30. Removing the Full length graphics card clamp securing tab bracket Press and push the screw covers covering the screws that secure the graphics card to the chassis. Remove the two screws (#6-32x6) that secure the graphics card to the chassis.
  • Page 83 Press the release tabs on the power-cable connectors to disconnect the power cables from the graphics card. NOTE: The location of the power supply connector (PCIE1, PCIE2 and PCIE3) varies depending on the video card installed. Figure 31. Removing the Full length graphics card screw cover screws (2) power cables (2)
  • Page 84 Press and hold the securing tab on the card connector, grasp the card by its top corners, and then ease the card out of the card connector. Figure 32. Removing the Full length graphics card graphics card securing tab...

  • Page 85: Replacing The Full-Length Graphics Cards

    Replacing the full-length graphics cards WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 86: Removing The Wireless Card

    Removing the wireless card WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 87 Slide and remove the wireless card from the wireless-card slot. Figure 33. Removing the wireless card antenna cables screw wireless card wireless-card slot...

  • Page 88: Replacing The Wireless Card

    Replacing the wireless card WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 89: Removing The Coin-Cell Battery

    Removing the coin-cell battery WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 90 Push the coin-cell battery-release lever to remove the coin-cell battery. Figure 34. Removing the coin-cell battery coin-cell battery-release coin-cell battery lever...

  • Page 91: Replacing The Coin-Cell Battery

    Replacing the coin-cell battery WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 92: Removing The Top Fan

    Removing the top fan WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 93 Lift the top fan out of the chassis. Figure 35. Removing the top fan top fan release tab screw memory-fan cable...

  • Page 94: Replacing The Top Fan

    Replacing the top fan WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 95: Removing The Logo Board

    Removing the logo board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 96 Slide the logo board out of the chassis. Figure 36. Removing the logo board logo board connector screw Remove the six screws (#6-32x6) that secure the logo board to the bracket.
  • Page 97 Remove the logo board from the bracket. Figure 37. Removing the logo board screws (6) logo-board bracket logo board...

  • Page 98: Replacing The Logo Board

    Replacing the logo board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 99: Removing The Solid-State Drive

    Removing the solid-state drive WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 100 Slide and remove the solid-state drive from the solid-state drive slot on the system board. Figure 38. Removing the solid-state drive screw solid-state drive solid-state drive slot...

  • Page 101: Replacing The Solid-State Drive

    Replacing the solid-state drive WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 102: Post-Requisites

    Replace the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the solid-state drive to the system board. Figure 39. Replacing the solid-state drive solid-state drive slot notch screw Post-requisites Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Replacing the side panels”. Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 103: Removing The Pci Fan

    Removing the PCI fan WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 104 Slide the graphics-card bracket out of the chassis. Figure 40. Removing the PCI fan screws (4) graphics-card bracket...
  • Page 105 Remove the two screws (M3x5.25) that secure the PCI fan to the chassis. Figure 41. Removing the PCI fan PCI fan screws (2) Disconnect the PCI-fan cable and front-bezel heat-sensor cable from their respective connectors on the system board.
  • Page 106 Remove the PCI fan from the tabs securing it to the chassis. Figure 42. Removing the PCI fan PCI fan front-bezel heat-sensor cable PCI-fan cable system board tabs chassis Remove the four screws (M5x10) securing the fan shroud to the PCI fan.
  • Page 107 Lift and remove the fan shroud off the PCI fan. Figure 43. Removing the PCI fan screws (4) fan shroud...

  • Page 108: Replacing The Pci Fan

    Replacing the PCI fan WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 109: Removing The Front-Bezel Heat Sensor Cable

    Removing the front-bezel heat sensor cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 110 Push the release tab and pry the front-bezel heat-sensor cable off the chassis. Figure 44. Removing the front-bezel heat-sensor cable front-bezel heat-sensor cable release tab fan shroud...

  • Page 111: Replacing The Front-Bezel Heat-Sensor Cable

    Replacing the front-bezel heat- sensor cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 112: Removing The Processor Liquid-Cooling Assembly

    Removing the processor liquid- cooling assembly WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 113 In sequential order as indicated on the processor cooling-assembly pump, loosen the captive screws that secure the processor liquid-cooling assembly pump to the system board. Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the processor liquid-cooling assembly fan to the chassis. Figure 45.
  • Page 114 Slide and lift the processor liquid-cooling assembly fan and processor liquid- cooling assembly pump out of the chassis. Figure 46. Removing the processor liquid-cooling assembly processor liquid-cooling chassis assembly fan processor liquid-cooling assembly pump...

  • Page 115: Replacing The Processor Liquid-Cooling Assembly

    Replacing the processor liquid- cooling assembly WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 116: Post-Requisites

    In sequential order as indicated on the processor cooling-assembly, tighten the captive screws that secure the processor liquid-cooling assembly to the system board. Post-requisites Replace the memory modules. Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Removing the side panels”. Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 117: Removing The Processor

    Removing the processor WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 118 Slide the processor cover off the processor slot CAUTION: When removing the processor, do not touch any of the pins inside the socket or allow any objects to fall on the pins in the socket. Figure 47. Removing the processor screws (3) processor shield release-levers (2)

  • Page 119: Replacing The Processor

    Replacing the processor WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 120 In the order as indicated on the processor shield (1,2,3), tighten the captive screws that secure the processor shield to the system board. Figure 48. Replacing the processor processor release-levers (2) processor shield screws (3)

  • Page 121: Post-Requisites

    Post-requisites Replace the processor liquid-cooling assembly fan. Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Replacing the side panels”. Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 122: Removing The Power-Supply Unit

    Removing the power-supply unit WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 123 Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the power-supply unit to the back of the chassis. Figure 49. Removing the power-supply unit power cable power-supply unit screws (4)
  • Page 124 Lift the power-supply unit cover away from the chassis. Figure 50. Removing the power-supply unit power-supply unit power-supply unit cover...
  • Page 125 Slide the power-supply unit out through the back of the chassis and remove it from the computer. Figure 51. Removing the power-supply unit chassis power-supply unit Slide and remove the metal bracket from the power-supply unit.

  • Page 126: Replacing The Power-Supply Unit

    Replacing the power-supply unit WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 127 Press and hold the securing tab on the chassis and slide the power-supply unit into the chassis until it snaps into position. Figure 52. Replacing the power-supply unit securing tab power-supply unit Align the notch on the power-supply unit cover with the tab on the chassis. Slide the power-supply unit cover towards the tabs until it locks in place.

  • Page 128: Post-Requisites

    Post-requisites Replace the full length graphics cards. Replace the multiple graphics cards. Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Removing the side panels”. Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 129: Removing The System Board

    Removing the system board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 130: Procedure

    Procedure NOTE: Note the routing of all cables as you remove them so that you can route them correctly after you replace the system board. For information on system-board connectors, see “system-board components”. Lay the chassis on the right side. Disconnect all the cables connected to the system-board assembly.
  • Page 131 Lift the system-board assembly out of the chassis. Figure 53. Removing the system board screws (9) system board Remove the processor.

  • Page 132: Replacing The System Board

    Replacing the system board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 133 Replace the wireless card. Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Replacing the side panels”. Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 134: Removing The Handle Bars

    Removing the handle bars WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 135: Procedure

    Procedure Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the rear handle-bar to the left side of the chassis. Figure 54. Removing the screws screws (7) chassis rear-handle bar Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the rear handle-bar to the right side of the chassis.
  • Page 136 Press the rear-handle bar to release the securing tab and remove the rear- handle bar. Figure 55. Removing the rear-handle bar screws (7) rear-handle bar chassis...
  • Page 137 Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the front handle-bar to the left side of the chassis. Figure 56. Removing the screws screws (7) chassis front-handle bar Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the front handle-bar to the right side of the chassis.
  • Page 138 Press the front-handle bar to release the securing tab and remove the front- handle bar. Figure 57. Removing the front-handle bar screws (7) front-handle bar chassis...
  • Page 139 Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the bottom handle-bar to the left side of the chassis. Figure 58. Removing the screws screws (7) bottom-handle bar chassis Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the bottom handle-bar to the right side of the chassis.
  • Page 140 Press the bottom-handle bar to release the securing tab and remove the bottom-handle bar. Figure 59. Removing the bottom-handle bar screws (7) chassis bottom-handle bar...

  • Page 141: Replacing The Handle Bars

    Replacing the handle bars WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 142: Removing The Front Bezel

    Removing the front bezel WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 143: Procedure

    Procedure Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the front bezel to the bottom and top of the chassis. Figure 60. Removing the screws screws (4) front bezel Remove the two screws (6-32x5.2) from inside, securing the front bezel to the left side of the chassis.
  • Page 144 Release the tabs from inside the chassis on the right side, securing the front bezel to the chassis. Figure 61. Removing the screws chassis tabs (2) screws (3) Pull the connector downwards and then disconnect the bottom tron light- cables from the front bezel. Pull the connector downwards and then disconnect the top tron light-cables from the front bezel.
  • Page 145 Pull the front bezel off the chassis. Figure 62. Removing the front bezel front bezel tron-light cables...

  • Page 146: Replacing The Front Bezel

    Replacing the front bezel WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 147: Removing The Optical-Drive Eject-Button Board

    Removing the optical-drive eject- button board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 148: Procedure

    Procedure Disconnect the optical-drive eject-button board cable from the I/O board. Figure 63. Removing the optical-drive eject-button board cable optical-drive eject-button securing clip board cable I/O board...
  • Page 149 Open the securing clips which secure the optical-drive eject-button board cable to the chassis. Figure 64. Removing the optical-drive eject-button board cable chassis securing clips Remove the two screws (#6-32x6) that secure the optical-drive eject-button board to the chassis.
  • Page 150 Remove the optical-drive eject-button board, along with the cable, off the chassis. Figure 65. Removing the optical-drive eject-button board optical-drive eject-button screws (2) board chassis...

  • Page 151: Replacing The Optical-Drive Eject-Button Board

    Replacing the optical-drive eject- button board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 152: Removing The Rear Bezel

    Removing the rear bezel WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 153: Procedure

    Procedure Disconnect the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable from the I/O board. Figure 66. Removing the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable securing clip I/O board rear I/O accessibility lighting cable Open the securing clip which secures the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable to the chassis.
  • Page 154 Remove the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable through the slot on the chassis. Figure 67. Removing the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable chassis securing clip rear I/O accessibility lighting slot cable Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the power-supply unit to the back of the chassis.
  • Page 155 Remove the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable from the routing guides on the chassis. Figure 68. Removing the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable rear bezel power-supply unit cover screws (4) rear I/O accessibility lighting cable routing guides (2) chassis...
  • Page 156 Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the rear bezel to the top and bottom of the chassis. Figure 69. Removing the rear bezel screws (4) rear bezel Remove the two screws (M3x5) from inside, that secure the rear bezel to the left side and right side of the chassis.
  • Page 157 Release the tabs from inside the chassis on the right side and left side, securing the rear bezel to the chassis. Figure 70. Removing the rear bezel chassis tabs (6) screws (2)
  • Page 158 10 Remove the rear bezel from the chassis and remove the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable from the slot on the chassis. Figure 71. Removing the rear bezel rear bezel chassis...

  • Page 159: Replacing The Rear Bezel

    Replacing the rear bezel WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 160: Removing The Base Panel

    Removing the base panel WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 161: Procedure

    Procedure CAUTION: If the front bezel and rear bezel have been removed, place the chassis carefully on a flat surface to avoid damaging the I/O ports. Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the base panel to the chassis. Figure 72. Removing the base panel screws (4) base panel Remove the three screws (#6-32x6) from inside, securing the base panel to...
  • Page 162 Release the tabs from inside the chassis on the left side, securing the base panel to the left side of the chassis. Figure 73. Removing the base panel tabs (2) screws (3) chassis Remove the two screws (#6-32x6) from inside, securing the base panel to the right side of the chassis.
  • Page 163 Release the tabs from inside the chassis on the right side, securing the base panel to the right side of the chassis. Figure 74. Removing the base panel screws (2) tabs (2) chassis...
  • Page 164 Remove the base panel from the chassis. Figure 75. Removing the base panel base panel chassis...

  • Page 165: Replacing The Base Panel

    Replacing the base panel WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 166: Removing The Top Tron-Lighting Cable

    Removing the top tron-lighting cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 167 Remove the top tron-lighting cables from the routing-guides on the chassis. Figure 76. Removing the top tron-lighting cables chassis tron-lighting cables logo board routing guides...
  • Page 168 Peel the tape that secures the top tron-lighting cables to the chassis and lift the top tron-lighting cables. Figure 77. Removing the top tron-lighting cables chassis tape top tron-lighting cables...

  • Page 169: Replacing The Top Tron-Lighting Cable

    Replacing the top tron-lighting cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 170: Removing The Bottom Tron-Lighting Cable

    Removing the bottom tron- lighting cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 171 Remove the bottom tron-lighting cables from the routing guide on the chassis. Figure 78. Removing the bottom tron-lighting cables securing clip routing guide logo board tron-lighting cables...
  • Page 172 Remove the bottom tron-lighting cables from the slot on the chassis. Figure 79. Removing the bottom tron-lighting cables top tron-lighting cables slot...

  • Page 173: Replacing The Bottom Tron-Lighting Cable

    Replacing the bottom tron- lighting cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 174: Removing The Antenna Cables

    Removing the antenna cables WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 175 Remove the gray antenna cable from the routing guide on the chassis. Figure 80. Removing the antenna cables antenna cables wireless card routing guide chassis...
  • Page 176 Remove the antenna cables from the routing guides on the chassis. Figure 81. Removing the antenna cables chassis routing guides...
  • Page 177 Remove the antenna cables from the routing guide on the chassis and slide the antenna cable through the slot on the chassis. Figure 82. Removing the antenna cables antenna cables routing guide slot Peel the tape that secures the antenna cables to the chassis. Remove the six screws (#6-32x6) that secure the antenna cables to the chassis.
  • Page 178 Pull the antenna cables from the slot on the chassis and remove. Figure 83. Removing the antenna cables screws slot chassis antenna cables...

  • Page 179: Replacing The Antenna Cables

    Replacing the antenna cables WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 180: Downloading Drivers

    Downloading drivers Downloading the audio driver Turn on your computer. Go to www.dell.com/support. Click Product Support, enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit. NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model. Click Drivers &...

  • Page 181: Downloading The Usb 3.0 Driver

    Downloading the USB 3.0 driver Turn on your computer. Go to www.dell.com/support. Click Product Support, enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit. NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model. Click Drivers &...

  • Page 182: Downloading The Network Driver

    Go to www.dell.com/support. Click Product Support, enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit. NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model. Click Drivers & downloads → Find it myself. Scroll down the page and expand Chipset.

  • Page 183: Bios Setup Program

    BIOS setup program Boot Sequence Boot Sequence allows you to bypass the System Setup–defined boot device order and boot directly to a specific device (for example: optical drive or hard drive). During the Power-on Self Test (POST), when the Dell logo appears. you can: •...

  • Page 184: Bios Overview

    Keys Navigation Enter Selects a value in the selected field (if applicable) or follow the link in the field. Spacebar Expands or collapses a drop‐down list, if applicable. Moves to the next focus area. NOTE: For the standard graphics browser only. Moves to the previous page until you view the main screen.

  • Page 185: System Setup Options

    Build Date Displays the BIOS release date. Product Information Product Name Displays the product name. Default: Alienware Area-51 R3. Set Service Tag Allows you to enter the service tag of your computer. Asset Tag Displays the asset tag of your computer.
  • Page 186 Main Memory Technology Displays the type of memory technology used. Memory Speed Displays the memory speed. CPU Information Processor Type Displays the processor type Processor ID Displays the processor identification code. CPU Speed Displays the CPU speed. Cache L2 Displays the processor L2 cache size.
  • Page 187 Main System Time Displays the current time in hh:mm:ss format. Table 4. System setup options—Advanced menu Advanced Advanced BIOS Features BIOS Recovery via Hard Drive Allows you to store the recovery image file on the primary hard drive. Default: Enabled. BIOS Auto-Recovery Enable the user to recover from certain corrupted BIOS conditions from a...
  • Page 188 Advanced Default: AHCI PCIE GEN3 Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE GEN3. Default: Enabled. Power Management Setup AC Recovery Sets what action the computer takes when power is restored. Default: Last State. Deep Sleep Control Allows you to define the controls when Deep Sleep is enabled.
  • Page 189 Security password controls access to the system setup utility. System Password Allows you to set the system password. The system password controls access to the computer at boot. HDD Password Status Displays if the HDD password is clear or set. Default: Not set.
  • Page 190 Table 7. System setup options—Boot menu Boot Boot Configuration Wait for ‘F1’ If Error Allows you to enable or disable the F1 screen. Default: All, but KB. Secure Boot Control Allows you to enable or disable the secure boot control. Default: Disabled.

  • Page 191: System And Setup Password

    Table 8. System setup options—Exit menu Save & Exit Save Changes and Reset Allows you to exit system setup and save your changes. Discard Changes and Reset Allows you to exit system setup and load previous values for all system setup options.

  • Page 192: Deleting Or Changing An Existing System And/Or Setup Password

    Select System Password and create a password in the Enter the new password field. Use the following guidelines to assign the system password: – A password can have up to 32 characters. – The password can contain the numbers 0 through 9. –...

  • Page 193: Clearing Forgotten Passwords

    Clearing Forgotten Passwords WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 194: Clearing Cmos Settings

    Clearing CMOS Settings WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 195: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Flashing the BIOS You may need to flash (update) the BIOS when an update is available or when you replace the system board. Follow these steps to flash the BIOS: Turn on your computer. Go to www.dell.com/support. Click Product support, enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit.

  • Page 196: Enhanced Pre-Boot System Assessment (Epsa) Diagnostics

    Boot to the USB drive from the One Time Boot Menu. Type the BIOS setup program filename and press Enter. The BIOS Update Utility appears. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the BIOS update. Enhanced Pre-Boot System Assessment (ePSA) diagnostics The ePSA diagnostics (also known as system diagnostics) performs a complete check of your hardware.

  • Page 197: Diagnostics

    To run a diagnostic test on a specific device, press Esc and click Yes to stop the diagnostic test. Select the device from the left pane and click Run Tests. If there are any issues, error codes are displayed. Note the error code and validation number and contact Dell. Diagnostics The following table shows different beep codes and what they indicate.

  • Page 198: Getting Help And Contacting Alienware

    Getting help and contacting Alienware Self-help resources You can get information and help on Alienware products and services using these online self-help resources: Table 10. Alienware products and online self-help resources Information about Alienware products www.alienware.com and services Dell Help & Support app...
  • Page 199 NOTE: Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be available in your country. 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.

This manual is also suitable for:

Area-51 r4

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