Dell Alienware M17X R2 Service Manual

Dell Alienware M17X R2 Service Manual

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ALIENWARE
M17x
®
SERVICE MANUAL
01
/
01
Table of Contents
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Summary of Contents for Dell Alienware M17X R2

  • Page 1 ALIENWARE M17x ® SERVICE MANUAL...
  • Page 2 Trademarks used in this manual: Alienware is a registered trademark of Alienware Corporation; Dell and the Dell Logo are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Bluetooth is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license;...
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    CONTENTS CONTENTS CHAPTER 6: COIN-CELL BATTERY ........23 CHAPTER 1: BEFORE YOU BEGIN .
  • Page 4 CONTENTS CHAPTER 11: BRACKETS ..........45 CHAPTER 16: WIRELESS MINI-CARD(S) .
  • Page 5 CONTENTS CHAPTER 22: SYSTEM BOARD......... . 98 Removing the System Board .
  • Page 6: Chapter 1: Before You Begin

    CHAPTER 1: BEFORE YOU BEGIN This section provides procedures for removing and installing the components CHAPTER 1: BEFORE YOU BEGIN in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the following conditions exist: CHAPTER 1: BEFORE YOU BEGIN • You have performed the steps in “Turning Off Your Computer”...
  • Page 7: Recommended Tools

    CHAPTER 1: BEFORE YOU BEGIN Recommended Tools Turning Off Your Computer CAUTION: To avoid losing data, save and close all open files and exit all The procedures in this document may require the following tools: open programs before you turn off your computer. •...
  • Page 8: Before Working Inside Your Computer

    CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, you must remove your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is the battery from the battery bay before you service the computer.
  • Page 9: Chapter 2: Battery Pack

    CHAPTER 2: BATTERY PACK CHAPTER 2: BATTERY PACK CHAPTER 2: BATTERY PACK...
  • Page 10: Battery Pack

    WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance. WARNING: Before performing these procedures, turn off the computer, disconnect the AC adapter from the electrical outlet and the computer, disconnect the modem from the wall connector and the computer, and remove any other external cables from the computer.
  • Page 11: Removing The Battery Pack

    CHAPTER 2: BATTERY PACK Removing the Battery Pack Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Turn the computer over. Slide the battery latch to the unlock position as shown. The battery pack will pop up. Remove the battery pack. Replacing the Battery Pack Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin”...
  • Page 12: Chapter 3: Compartment Door

    CHAPTER 3: COMPARTMENT DOOR CHAPTER 3: COMPARTMENT DOOR CHAPTER 3: COMPARTMENT DOOR...
  • Page 13: Compartment Door

    (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 14: Removing The Compartment Door

    CHAPTER 3: COMPARTMENT DOOR Removing the Compartment Door Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Loosen the two captive screws and remove the compartment door. Replacing the Compartment Door Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin”...
  • Page 15: Chapter 4: Hard Drive(S)

    CHAPTER 4: HARD DRIVE(S) CHAPTER 4: HARD DRIVE(S) CHAPTER 4: HARD DRIVE(S)
  • Page 16 Dell or Alienware. remove the hard drive while the computer is on or in Sleep state. NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell or CAUTION: Hard drives are extremely fragile. Exercise care when handling Alienware, you need to install an operating system, drivers, and utilities the hard drive.
  • Page 17: Removing The Hard Drive(S)

    CHAPTER 4: HARD DRIVE(S) Removing the Hard Drive(s) If your computer has a secondary hard drive (HDD1): Loosen the four captive screws on the secondary hard drive (HDD1). Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Using the pull tab, lift the secondary hard drive (HDD1) out of the hard Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 18 CHAPTER 4: HARD DRIVE(S) Remove the four screws that secure the hard drive bracket to the hard drive. Remove the interposer from the hard drive, if applicable. Slide the hard drive out of the hard drive bracket. hard drive 3 screws (4) 1 interposer hard drive 2 hard drive bracket...
  • Page 19: Replacing The Hard Drive(S)

    CHAPTER 4: HARD DRIVE(S) Replacing the Hard Drive(s) Replace the compartment door (see “Replacing the Compartment Door” on page 14). Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Replace the battery pack (see “Replacing the Battery Pack” on page 11).
  • Page 20: Chapter 5: Processor Thermal Fan

    CHAPTER 5: PROCESSOR THERMAL FAN CHAPTER 5: PROCESSOR THERMAL FAN CHAPTER 5: PROCESSOR THERMAL FAN...
  • Page 21 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 22: Removing The Processor Thermal Fan

    CHAPTER 5: PROCESSOR THERMAL FAN Removing the Processor Thermal Fan Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14).
  • Page 23: Chapter 6: Coin-Cell Battery

    CHAPTER 6: COIN-CELL BATTERY CHAPTER 6: COIN-CELL BATTERY CHAPTER 6: COIN-CELL BATTERY...
  • Page 24 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 25: Removing The Coin-Cell Battery

    CHAPTER 6: COIN-CELL BATTERY Removing the Coin-Cell Battery Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14). Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the system board connector.
  • Page 26: Chapter 7: Memory Module(S)

    Install only memory modules that are supported by your computer. NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell or Alienware are covered under your computer warranty. Your computer has two user-accessible SODIMM sockets that can be accessed...
  • Page 27 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 28: Removing The Memory Module(S)

    CHAPTER 7: MEMORY MODULE(S) Removing the Memory Module(s) Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14). Loosen the captive screw that secures the memory-module door to the computer base.
  • Page 29: Replacing The Memory Module(S)

    CHAPTER 7: MEMORY MODULE(S) Replacing the Memory Module(s) Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the spring-locks on the memory module connector until the module pops up. CAUTION: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, Remove the memory module. install a memory module in the lower connector before you install a module in the upper connector.
  • Page 30 CHAPTER 7: MEMORY MODULE(S) CAUTION: If the memory module door is difficult to close, remove the memory module and reinstall it. Forcing the memory module door to close may damage your computer. NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot.
  • Page 31: Chapter 8: Center Control Cover

    CHAPTER 8: CENTER CONTROL COVER CHAPTER 9: CENTER CONTROL COVER CHAPTER 8: CENTER CONTROL COVER...
  • Page 32: Center Control Cover

    (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 33: Removing The Center Control Cover

    CHAPTER 8: CENTER CONTROL COVER Removing the Center Control Cover Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14).
  • Page 34 CHAPTER 8: CENTER CONTROL COVER Turn the computer top side up, and open the display as far as it will open. Turn the center control cover as shown in the illustration. Release the connector latch to disconnect the cable from the center control CAUTION: Be extremely careful when removing the center control cover.
  • Page 35: Replacing The Center Control Cover

    CHAPTER 8: CENTER CONTROL COVER Replacing the Center Control Cover Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Slide the cable into the center control cover connector and pull down the connector latch to secure the cable to the connector. Align the center control cover with the computer and snap the cover in place.
  • Page 36: Chapter 9: Keyboard

    CHAPTER 9: KEYBOARD CHAPTER 10: KEYBOARD CHAPTER 9: KEYBOARD...
  • Page 37 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 38: Removing The Keyboard

    CHAPTER 9: KEYBOARD Removing the Keyboard Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14). Remove the center control cover (see “Removing the Center Control Cover” on page 33).
  • Page 39: Replacing The Keyboard

    CHAPTER 9: KEYBOARD Replacing the Keyboard Turn the keyboard over. Release the connector latches and disconnect the keyboard cable and Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page keyboard light cable from the respective system board connectors. Slide the keyboard cable and the keyboard light cable into the respective Lift the keyboard off the computer.
  • Page 40: Chapter 10: Palm Rest

    CHAPTER 10: PALM REST CHAPTER 8: PALM REST CHAPTER 10: PALM REST...
  • Page 41: Palm Rest

    (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 42: Removing The Palm Rest

    CHAPTER 10: PALM REST Removing the Palm Rest Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the three screws that secure the palm rest to the computer base. 1 battery bay screws (3)
  • Page 43 CHAPTER 10: PALM REST Turn the computer over and slide the palm rest out as shown in the Ease the palm rest up until you see the cable that connects the touch pad to illustration. the system board connector. Turn the palm rest over and pull the tabs on the touch pad connector to CAUTION: Be extremely careful when removing the palm rest.
  • Page 44: Replacing The Palm Rest

    CHAPTER 10: PALM REST Replacing the Palm Rest Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Slide the touch pad cable into the touch pad connector and push the tabs on the touch pad connector to secure the cable. Align the tabs on the palm rest with the slots on the computer.
  • Page 45: Chapter 11: Brackets

    CHAPTER 11: BRACKETS CHAPTER 11: BRACKETS CHAPTER 11: BRACKETS...
  • Page 46 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 47: Removing The Brackets

    CHAPTER 11: BRACKETS Removing the Brackets CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11).
  • Page 48: Chapter 12: Magnesium Cover

    CHAPTER 12: MAGNESIUM COVER CHAPTER 11: MAGNESIUM COVER CHAPTER 12: MAGNESIUM COVER...
  • Page 49 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 50: Removing The Magnesium Cover

    CHAPTER 12: MAGNESIUM COVER Removing the Magnesium Cover Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14). Remove the center control cover (see “Removing the Center Control Cover”...
  • Page 51 CHAPTER 12: MAGNESIUM COVER Remove the left and right brackets (see “Removing the Brackets” on page 47). Remove the ten screws that secure the magnesium cover to the computer base. Lift the magnesium cover off the computer. 1 screws (10) magnesium cover...
  • Page 52: Replacing The Magnesium Cover

    CHAPTER 12: MAGNESIUM COVER Replacing the Magnesium Cover Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Replace the magnesium cover on the computer base. Replace the ten screws that secure the magnesium cover to the computer base. Replace the left and right brackets (see “Replacing the Brackets” on page 47).
  • Page 53: Chapter 13: Display

    CHAPTER 13: DISPLAY CHAPTER 12: DISPLAY CHAPTER 13: DISPLAY...
  • Page 54 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 55: Removing The Display Assembly

    CHAPTER 13: DISPLAY Display Assembly Remove the four screws (two from each hinge) that secure the display assembly to the computer base. Removing the Display Assembly Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11).
  • Page 56: Replacing The Display Assembly

    CHAPTER 13: DISPLAY Replacing the Display Assembly Bend the display assembly towards the computer base at a 45-degree angle and lift the display assembly off the computer. Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Align the screw holes on the display hinges with the computer base. Replace the four screws (two on each hinge) that secure the display assembly to the computer base.
  • Page 57: Removing The Display

    CHAPTER 13: DISPLAY Display Back Cover Removing the Display Back Cover Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14).
  • Page 58 CHAPTER 13: DISPLAY Slide the display back cover door out and lift it off the display assembly. Remove the two screws that secure the display back cover to the display assembly. Disconnect the AlienHead cable from the connector. Slide the display back cover up and lift it off the display assembly. 1 display back cover door 1 display back cover 3 AlienHead cable connector...
  • Page 59: Replacing The Display

    CHAPTER 13: DISPLAY Replacing the Display Back Cover Replace the keyboard (see “Replacing the Keyboard” on page 39). Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Replace the center control cover (see “Replacing the Center Control Cover” on page 35). Align the display back cover with the back of the display assembly and slide it into position.
  • Page 60: Removing The Alienhead Board

    CHAPTER 13: DISPLAY AlienHead Board Lift the top of the AlienHead board and slide the bottom portion down to detach it from the tab that holds it in place. Removing the AlienHead Board Lift the AlienHead board off the display back cover. Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin”...
  • Page 61: Replacing The Alienhead Board

    CHAPTER 13: DISPLAY Replacing the AlienHead Board Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Align the AlienHead board with the tabs on the display back cover. Gently press and slide the AlienHead board into place. Replace the screw that secures the AlienHead board to the display back cover.
  • Page 62: Chapter 14: Input/Output Board

    CHAPTER 14: INPUT/OUTPUT BOARD CHAPTER 13: INPUT/OUTPUT BOARD CHAPTER 14: INPUT/OUTPUT BOARD...
  • Page 63 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 64: Removing The Input/Output Board

    CHAPTER 14: INPUT/OUTPUT BOARD Removing the Input/Output Board Release the connector latches on both ends of the ExpressCard cable and remove the cable. Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11).
  • Page 65 CHAPTER 14: INPUT/OUTPUT BOARD Disconnect the speaker cable, right speaker light cable, and audio cable from Remove the three screws that secure the input/output board to the system the respective connectors on the system board and remove the cables from board and remove the earthing cable.
  • Page 66: Replacing The Input/Output Board

    CHAPTER 14: INPUT/OUTPUT BOARD Replacing the Input/Output Board Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Place the input/output board in the computer base. Replace the earthing cable and the three screws that secure the input/output board to the system board. Route and connect the speaker cable, right speaker light cable, and audio cable to the respective system board connectors.
  • Page 67: Chapter 15: Optical Drive

    CHAPTER 15: OPTICAL DRIVE CHAPTER 14: OPTICAL DRIVE CHAPTER 15: OPTICAL DRIVE...
  • Page 68: Optical Drive

    (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 69: Removing The Optical Drive

    CHAPTER 15: OPTICAL DRIVE Removing the Optical Drive Remove the two screws that secure the optical drive to the computer base. Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Release the connector latch and disconnect the optical drive cable from the system board connector.
  • Page 70 CHAPTER 15: OPTICAL DRIVE Remove the five screws that secure the optical drive bracket to the optical Disconnect the optical drive cable from the optical drive and remove the drive. cable. 1 optical drive cable optical drive 1 screws (5) 3 optical drive 2 optical drive bracket...
  • Page 71: Replacing The Optical Drive

    CHAPTER 15: OPTICAL DRIVE Replacing the Optical Drive Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Connect the optical drive cable to the optical drive. Replace the five screws that secure the optical drive bracket to the optical drive. Place the optical drive in the computer base.
  • Page 72: Chapter 16: Wireless Mini-Card(S)

    CHAPTER 16: WIRELESS MINI-CARD(S) If you ordered a wireless Mini-Card with your computer, the card is already installed. Your computer has two Mini-Card slots: • one Full Mini-Card slot • one Half Mini-Card slot The types of Mini-Cards supported are: •...
  • Page 73 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 74: Removing The Mini-Card(S)

    CHAPTER 16: WIRELESS MINI-CARD(S) Removing the Mini-Card(s) Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the palm rest (see “Removing the Palm Rest” on page 42). Disconnect the antenna cables from the Mini-Card(s).
  • Page 75 CHAPTER 16: WIRELESS MINI-CARD(S) Lift the Mini-Card(s) at an angle and remove it from the system board connector. CAUTION: When the Mini-Card is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging. For more information, see “Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge” in the safety information that shipped with your computer.
  • Page 76: Replacing The Mini-Card(S)

    NOTE: If you are installing a communication card from a source other than board until it clicks into place. Dell or Alienware, you must install the appropriate drivers and utilities. Connect the appropriate antenna cables to the Mini-Card(s) you are installing.
  • Page 77: Chapter 17: Processor Heat Sink

    CHAPTER 17: PROCESSOR HEAT SINK CHAPTER 16: PROCESSOR HEAT SINK CHAPTER 17: PROCESSOR HEAT SINK...
  • Page 78: Processor Heat Sink

    (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 79: Removing The Processor Heat Sink

    CHAPTER 17: PROCESSOR HEAT SINK Removing the Processor Heat Sink Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14).
  • Page 80: Replacing The Processor Heat Sink

    CHAPTER 17: PROCESSOR HEAT SINK Replacing the Processor Heat Sink Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Peel the backing off the thermal cooling pads attached to the new processor heat sink. NOTE: If the processor heat sink is replaced, the thermal cooling pads will be attached to the new processor heat sink.
  • Page 81: Chapter 18: Processor

    CHAPTER 18: PROCESSOR CHAPTER 18: PROCESSOR CHAPTER 18: PROCESSOR...
  • Page 82 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 83: Removing The Processor

    CHAPTER 18: PROCESSOR Removing the Processor Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14). Remove the center control cover (see “Removing the Center Control Cover” on page 33).
  • Page 84: Replacing The Processor

    CHAPTER 18: PROCESSOR Replacing the Processor Peel the backing off the new thermal cooling pads in the kit and adhere the pads to the portions of the processor fan and heat sink assembly that cover Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page the processor.
  • Page 85: Chapter 19: Graphics Card(S)

    CHAPTER 19: GRAPHICS CARD(S) Your computer may have a single graphics or dual graphics configuration. The CHAPTER 17: GRAPHICS CARD(S) graphics card on the left is the primary graphics card and the graphics card on the CHAPTER 19: GRAPHICS CARD(S) right is the secondary graphics card.
  • Page 86 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 87: Removing The Graphics Card(S)

    CHAPTER 19: GRAPHICS CARD(S) Removing the Graphics Card(s) Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14). Remove the center control cover (see “Removing the Center Control Cover”...
  • Page 88 CHAPTER 19: GRAPHICS CARD(S) To remove the primary graphics card: Remove the left bracket (see “Removing the Brackets” on page 47). Remove the two screws that secure the primary graphics card to the system board. Lift the primary graphics card at an angle and remove it from the system board connector.
  • Page 89: Replacing The Graphics Card(S)

    CHAPTER 19: GRAPHICS CARD(S) Replacing the Graphics Card(s) Replace the keyboard (see “Replacing the Keyboard” on page 39). Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Replace the center control cover (see “Replacing the Center Control Cover” on page 35). To replace the primary graphics card: Insert the primary graphics card at a 45-degree angle into the system Replace the compartment door (see “Replacing the Compartment Door”...
  • Page 90: Chapter 20: Graphics Card Fan(S)

    CHAPTER 20: GRAPHICS CARD FAN(S) CHAPTER 18: GRAPHICS CARD FAN(S) Your computer may have a single graphics or dual graphics configuration. The graphics card on the left is the primary graphics card and the graphics card on CHAPTER 20: GRAPHICS CARD FAN(S) the right is the secondary graphics card.
  • Page 91 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 92: Removing The Graphics Card Fan(S)

    CHAPTER 20: GRAPHICS CARD FAN(S) Removing the Graphics Card Fan(s) Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14).
  • Page 93: Replacing The Graphics Card Fan(S)

    CHAPTER 20: GRAPHICS CARD FAN(S) Replacing the Graphics Card Fan(s) Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Place the graphics card fan in the computer base. Tighten the three captive screws that secure the graphics card fan to the computer base.
  • Page 94: Chapter 21: Graphics Card Blank

    CHAPTER 21: GRAPHICS CARD BLANK If your computer has a dual graphics configuration, the secondary graphics card CHAPTER 19: GRAPHICS CARD BLANK is already installed on the right side of the computer base (to remove and replace CHAPTER 21: GRAPHICS CARD BLANK the graphics card see the instructions in “Graphics Card(s)”...
  • Page 95 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 96: Removing The Graphics Card Blank

    CHAPTER 21: GRAPHICS CARD BLANK Removing the Graphics Card Blank Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11). Remove the compartment door (see “Removing the Compartment Door” on page 14).
  • Page 97: Replacing The Graphics Card Blank

    CHAPTER 21: GRAPHICS CARD BLANK Replacing the Graphics Card Blank Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Place the graphics card blank in the computer base. Tighten the three captive screws that secure the graphics card blank to the computer base.
  • Page 98: Chapter 22: System Board

    CHAPTER 22: SYSTEM BOARD The system board’ s BIOS chip contains the Service Tag, which is also visible on a CHAPTER 20: SYSTEM BOARD barcode label on the bottom of the computer. The Service Tag has to be entered CHAPTER 22: SYSTEM BOARD in the replacement system board’...
  • Page 99: System Board

    (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 100: Removing The System Board

    CHAPTER 22: SYSTEM BOARD Removing the System Board Remove the input/output board (see “Removing the Input/Output Board” on page 64). Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery pack (see “Removing the Battery Pack” on page 11).
  • Page 101 CHAPTER 22: SYSTEM BOARD 1 system board consumer IR cable connector on consumer IR board 2 screws (5) consumer IR cable connector on system board 3 left speaker light cable connector 0101 0101...
  • Page 102: Replacing The System Board

    CHAPTER 22: SYSTEM BOARD Replacing the System Board Replace the center control cover (see “Replacing the Center Control Cover” on page 35). Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Align the connectors on the system board with the slots on the computer. Replace the palm rest (see “Replacing the Palm Rest”...
  • Page 103: Chapter 23: Speakers

    CHAPTER 23: SPEAKERS CHAPTER 21: SPEAKERS CHAPTER 23: SPEAKERS 0103 0103...
  • Page 104 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 105: Removing The Speakers

    CHAPTER 23: SPEAKERS Removing the Speakers Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the system board (see “Removing the System Board” on page 99). Remove the speaker cables from the routing guides. Lift the speakers off the computer base. Replacing the Speakers Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin”...
  • Page 106: Chapter 24: Consumer Ir Board

    CHAPTER 24: CONSUMER IR BOARD CHAPTER 22: CONSUMER IR BOARD CHAPTER 24: CONSUMER IR BOARD 0106 0106...
  • Page 107 (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 108: Removing The Consumer Ir Board

    CHAPTER 24: CONSUMER IR BOARD Removing the Consumer IR Board Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the system board (see “Removing the System Board” on page 99). Remove the speakers (see “Removing the Speakers” on page 105).
  • Page 109: Chapter 25: Battery Latch Assembly

    CHAPTER 25: BATTERY LATCH ASSEMBLY CHAPTER 24: BATTERY LATCH ASSEMBLY CHAPTER 25: BATTERY LATCH ASSEMBLY 0109 0109...
  • Page 110: Battery Latch Assembly

    (such as a connector on the back of the computer). CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty. CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see “Removing the Battery Pack”...
  • Page 111: Removing The Battery Latch Assembly

    CHAPTER 25: BATTERY LATCH ASSEMBLY Removing the Battery Latch Assembly Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the system board (see “Removing the System Board” on page 99). Press and push the plastic clip on the battery release latch to release it from the battery latch assembly.
  • Page 112: Chapter 26: Bios

    CHAPTER 26: BIOS CHAPTER 25: BIOS CHAPTER 26: BIOS 0112 0112...
  • Page 113: Configuring The Bios

    CHAPTER 26: BIOS Configuring the BIOS Entering System Setup Turn on (or restart) your laptop. System Setup NOTE: Keyboard failure may result when a key on the keyboard is held down for extended periods of time. To avoid possible keyboard failure, press and The System Setup options allow you to: release ...
  • Page 114 CHAPTER 26: BIOS System Setup Options Main Menu Total Memory NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed Displays the total memory available in your computer. in this section may not appear, or may not appear exactly as listed. Memory Bank 0 Displays the memory size installed in memory bank 0.
  • Page 115 CHAPTER 26: BIOS Advanced Menu Advanced Menu High SATA Allows you to enable or disable the internal high definition Allows you to configure the operating mode of the Definition Operation audio device. integrated SATA hard drive controller. Sound • Disabled: The internal audio device is disabled and is •...
  • Page 116 CHAPTER 26: BIOS Performance Options Sub-Menu Security Menu CPU Speed System Displays the speed of the processor. Displays the status of the system password. The system Password password is also known as the Master/Supervisor Memory Displays the frequency of the memory. Status password.
  • Page 117 CHAPTER 26: BIOS Power Menu Exit Menu A/C Adapter Exit Saving Displays the AC adapter rating. Allows you to exit System Setup and save your changes to Rating Changes CMOS. A/C Adapter Exit Allows you to choose if the computer should display Allows you to exit utility without saving System Setup data Warnings Discarding...
  • Page 118: Flashing The Bios

    Select Your Product Model list. Turn on the computer. Select the product model number in the support.dell.com/support/downloads. Go to NOTE: If you have selected a different model and want to start over again, Locate the BIOS update file for your computer: click Start Over on the top right of the menu.

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