Contents

Contents
Before You Begin
- Turn Off Your Computer and Connected Devices
- Safety Instructions
- Recommended Tools
After Working Inside Your Computer
Base Cover
- Removing the Base Cover
  - Procedure
    - 1 Turn the computer over.
    - 2 Loosen the captive screws that secure the base cover to the computer base.
    - 3 Slide and lift the base cover off the computer base.
- Replacing the Base Cover
  - Procedure
    - 1 Align the tabs on the base cover with the slots on the computer base and slide the base cover until it snaps into place.
    - 2 Tighten the captive screws that secure the base cover to the computer base.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page 13.
    - 4
Battery
- Removing the Battery
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Disconnect the battery cable from the connector on the system board.
    - 2 Loosen the captive screws that secure the battery to the computer base.
    - 3 Using the pull-tab, lift the battery off the computer base.
- Replacing the Battery
  - Procedure
    - 1 Place the battery in the battery bay and tighten the captive screws that secure the battery to the computer base.
    - 2 Connect the battery cable to the connector on the system board.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 2 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page 13.
- Optical Drive
  - Removing the Optical Drive
    - Prerequisites
    - Procedure
  - Replacing the Optical Drive
    - Procedure
    - Postrequisites
      - 6
Hard Drive
- Removing the Hard Drive
  - Procedure
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery pack. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 3 Follow the instructions from step 1 to step 3 in "Removing the Optical Drive" on page 19.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Loosen the three captive screws that secure the hard-drive assembly to the computer base.
    - 2 Using the pull-tab, gently lift the hard-drive assembly and then disconnect the hard-drive interposer.
    - 3 Lift the hard-drive assembly off the computer base.
    - 4 Remove the four screws that secure the hard-drive bracket to the hard drive.
    - 5 Lift the hard-drive bracket off the hard drive.
- Replacing the Hard Drive
  - Procedure
    - 1 Place the hard drive in the hard-drive bracket.
    - 2 Replace the four screws that secure the hard-drive bracket to the hard drive.
    - 3 Connect the interposer to the hard drive.
    - 4 Place the hard-drive assembly in the computer base.
    - 5 Tighten the three captive screws that secure the hard-drive assembly to the computer base.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Follow the instructions from step 6 to step 8 in "Replacing the Optical Drive" on page 22.
    - 2 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 3 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 4 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page 13.
    - 7
Memory Module(s)
- Removing the Memory Module(s)
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Loosen the captive screws that secure the memory-module cover to the computer base.
    - 2 Lift and slide the tabs on the memory-module cover out of the slots on the computer base.
    - 3 Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory-module connector until the memory module pops up.
    - 4 Slide the memory module out of the memory-module connector.
- Replacing the Memory Module(s)
  - Procedure
    - 1 Align the notch in the memory module with the tab in the memory- module connector.
    - 2 Slide the memory module firmly into the connector at a 45-degree angle, and then press the memory module down until it clicks into place. If you do not hear the click, remove the memory module and reinstall it.
    - 3 Slide the tabs on the memory-module cover into the slots on the computer base and lower the memory-module cover into place.
    - 4 Tighten the captive screws that secure the memory-module cover to the computer base.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 2 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 3 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 8
Center-Control Cover
- Removing the Center-Control Cover
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Remove the screws that secure the center-control cover to the computer base.
    - 2 Turn the computer over and open the display as far as possible.
    - 3 Gently pry the center-control cover and then ease the tabs on the center-control cover out of the slots on the palm-rest assembly.
    - 4 Lift the center-control cover off the palm-rest assembly.
- Replacing the Center-Control Cover
  - Procedure
    - 1 Align the tabs on the center-control cover with the slots on the palm-rest assembly.
    - 2 Gently press around the edges of the center-control cover till it snaps in place.
    - 3 Close the display and turn the computer over.
    - 4 Replace the screws that secure the center-control cover to the computer base.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the battery pack. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 2 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 3 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 9
Keyboard
- Removing the Keyboard
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 3 Remove the center-control cover. See "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Remove the screws that secure the keyboard to the computer base.
    - 2 Carefully pry the keyboard up and slide it towards the display till the tabs on the keyboard are released from the palm-rest assembly.
    - 3 Turn the keyboard over.
    - 4 Lift the release latches on the connectors on the system board and disconnect the keyboard cable and keyboard-backlight cable.
    - 5 Lift the keyboard off the palm-rest assembly.
- Replacing the Keyboard
  - Procedure
    - 1 Slide the keyboard cable and keyboard backlight cable into the connectors on the system board and press down on the connector latches to secure the cables.
    - 2 Slide the tabs on the keyboard into the slots on the palm-rest assembly and lower the keyboard into place.
    - 3 Gently press around the edges of the keyboard to secure the keyboard under the tab on the palm-rest assembly.
    - 4 Replace the screws that secure the keyboard to the computer base.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 2 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 3 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 4 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 10
Palm-Rest Assembly
- Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Remove the screws that secure the palm-rest assembly to the computer base.
    - 2 Turn the computer over and open the display as far as possible.
    - 3 Remove the center-control cover (see "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33).
    - 4 Remove the keyboard (see "Removing the Keyboard" on page 37).
    - 5 Lift the connector latches and use the pull-tabs to disconnect the touchpad cable and power-button board cable from the connectors on the system board.
    - 6 Disconnect the speakers cable and status-light board cable from the connectors on the system board.
    - 7 Remove the two screws that secure the palm-rest assembly to the computer base.
    - 8 Pry out the palm-rest assembly along the rear edge and then ease the palm-rest assembly from the computer base.
    - 9 Lift the palm-rest assembly off the computer base.
- Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly
  - Procedure
    - 1 Align the palm-rest assembly on the computer base and gently snap the palm-rest assembly into place.
    - 2 Replace the two screws that secure the palm-rest assembly to the computer base.
    - 3 Connect the speakers cable and status-light board cable to the connectors on the system board.
    - 4 Slide the touch-pad cable and power-button board cable into their connectors on the system board, and press down on their connector latches to secure the cables.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 39.
    - 2 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 3 Close the display and turn the computer over.
    - 4 Replace the screws that secure the palm-rest assembly to the computer base.
    - 5 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 6 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 7 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page 13.
    - 11
Wireless Mini-Card(s)/WirelessHD Card (Optional)
- Removing the Mini-Card(s)
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Disconnect the antenna cables from the connectors on the mini-card.
    - 2 Remove the screw that secures the mini-card to the system board.
    - 3 Slide and remove the mini-card out of the connector on the system board.
- Replacing the Mini-Card(s)
  - Procedure
    - 1 Remove the new Mini-Card from its packaging.
    - 2 Insert the mini-card connector at a 45-degree angle into the connector on the system board.
    - 3 Press the other end of the mini-card down into the slot on the system board and replace the screw that secures the mini-card to the system board.
    - 4 Connect the mini-card cables to the connectors on the mini-card. The following table provides the antenna cable color scheme for each mini-card supported by your computer:
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 2 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 3 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 12
Power-Button Board
- Removing the Power-Button Board
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 3 Remove the center-control cover. See "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33.
    - 4 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 37.
    - 5 Remove the palm-rest assembly. See "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 41.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Gently peel the power-button board cable from the palm-rest assembly.
    - 2 Remove the screws that secure the power-button board to the palm-rest assembly.
    - 3 Carefully lift the power-button board and release its cable from the slot on the palm-rest assembly.
- Replacing the Power-Button Board
  - Procedure
    - 1 Slide the power-button board cable through the slot on the palm-rest assembly.
    - 2 Use the alignment posts on the palm-rest assembly to place the power-button board in place.
    - 3 Replace the screws that secure the power-button board to the palm-rest assembly.
    - 4 Adhere the power-button board cable to the palm-rest assembly.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the palm-rest assembly. See "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 44.
    - 2 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 39.
    - 3 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 4 Replace the battery pack. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 5 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 6 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 13
Status-Lights Board
- Removing the Status-Lights Board
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 3 Remove the center-control cover. See "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33.
    - 4 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 37.
    - 5 Remove the palm-rest assembly. See "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 41.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Turn the palm-rest assembly over.
    - 2 Note the routing of status-light board cable and remove the cable from the routing guides.
    - 3 Turn the palm-rest assembly over.
    - 4 Remove the screw that secures the status-light board to the palm- rest assembly.
    - 5 Carefully lift the status-light board and release its cable from the slot on the palm-rest assembly.
- Replacing the Status-Lights Board
  - Procedure.
    - 1 Slide the status-light board cable through the slot in the palm-rest assembly.
    - 2 Align the slot on the status-light board with the alignment post on the palm-rest assembly.
    - 3 Replace the screw that secures the status-light board to the palm-rest assembly.
    - 4 Turn the palm-rest assembly over.
    - 5 Route the status-light board cable through the routing guides on the palm-rest assembly.
  - Postrequisites
    - 6 Replace the palm-rest assembly. See "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 44.
    - 7 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 39.
    - 8 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 9 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 10 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 11 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 14
Speakers
- Removing the Speakers
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 3 Remove the center-control cover. See "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33.
    - 4 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 37.
    - 5 Remove the palm-rest assembly. See "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 41.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Turn the palm-rest assembly over.
    - 2 Note the routing of speakers cable and remove the cable from the routing guides.
    - 3 Remove the four screws that secure the speakers to the palm-rest assembly.
    - 4 Lift the speakers along with the cable away from the palm-rest assembly.
- Replacing the Speakers
  - Procedure
    - 1 Align the screw holes on the speakers with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly and route the speakers cable through the routing guides.
    - 2 Replace the screws that secure the speakers to the palm-rest assembly.
    - 3 Turn the palm-rest assembly over.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the palm-rest assembly. See "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 44.
    - 2 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 39.
    - 3 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 4 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 5 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 6 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 15
Subwoofer
- Removing the Subwoofer
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 3 Remove the center-control cover. See "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33.
    - 4 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 37.
    - 5 Remove the palm-rest assembly. See "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 41.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Disconnect the subwoofer cable from the connector on the system board.
    - 2 Note the routing of subwoofer cable and remove the cable from the routing guides.
    - 3 Lift the subwoofer along with the cable off the computer base.
- Replacing the Subwoofer
  - Procedure
    - 1 Align the slots on the subwoofer with the alignment posts on the computer base.
    - 2 Route the subwoofer cable through the routing guides.
    - 3 Connect the subwoofer cable to the connector on the system board.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the palm-rest assembly. See "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 44.
    - 2 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 39.
    - 3 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 4 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 5 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 6 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 16
Internal Card with Bluetooth Wireless Technology
- Removing the Bluetooth Card
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 3 Remove the center-control cover. See "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33.
    - 4 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 37.
    - 5 Remove the palm-rest assembly. See "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 41.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Disconnect the Bluetooth-card cable from the connector on the system board.
    - 2 Remove the screw that secures the Bluetooth card to the computer base.
    - 3 Note the routing of Bluetooth-card cable and remove the cable from the routing guides.
    - 4 Lift the Bluetooth card along with the cable off the computer base.
- Replacing the Bluetooth Card
  - Procedure
    - 1 Align the screw hole on the Bluetooth card with the screw hole on the system board.
    - 2 Replace the screw that secures the Bluetooth card to the computer base.
    - 3 Connect the Bluetooth-card cable to the connector on the system board.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the palm-rest assembly. See "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 44.
    - 2 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 39.
    - 3 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 4 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 5 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 6 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 17
Coin-Cell Battery
- Removing the Coin-Cell Battery
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery pack. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 3 Remove the center-control cover. See "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33.
    - 4 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 37.
    - 5 Remove the palm-rest assembly. See "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 41.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the connector on the system board.
    - 2 Gently pry out the coin-cell battery from the slot on the computer base.
- Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery
  - Procedure
    - 1 Use the adhesive on the coin-cell battery and adhere it to slot on the computer base.
    - 2 Connect the coin-cell battery cable to the connector on the system board.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the palm-rest assembly. See "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 44).
    - 2 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 39).
    - 3 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 4 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 5 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 6 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 18
Display Assembly
- Removing the Display Assembly
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery pack. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 3 Disconnect the antenna cables from the mini-card(s). See "Removing the Mini-Card(s)" on page 45.
    - 4 Note the routing of the WirelessHD card (optional) and mini-card antenna cables and remove them from the routing guides on the computer base.
    - 5 Turn the computer over and open the display as far as possible.
    - 6 Remove the center-control cover. See "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33.
    - 7 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 37.
    - 8 Remove the palm-rest assembly. See "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 41.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Using the pull-tab, disconnect the display cable from the connector on the system board.
    - 2 Disconnect the logo-board cable from the connector on the system board.
    - 3 Gently peel the display cable and the logo-board cable from the system board.
    - 4 Remove the screws that secure the display assembly to the computer base.
    - 5 Gently slide the WirelessHD (optional) and mini-card antenna cables out through the slot on the computer base.
    - 6 Lift the display assembly off the computer.
- Replacing the Display Assembly
  - Procedure
    - 1 Slide the WirelessHD (optional) and mini-card antenna cables through the slot on the computer base.
    - 2 Place the display assembly in position and replace the screws that secure the display assembly to the computer base.
    - 3 Connect the display cable and the logo-board cable to the connectors on the system board.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Replace the palm-rest assembly. See "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 44.
    - 2 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 39.
    - 3 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 4 Turn the computer over and route the WirelessHD card and mini-card antenna cables through the routing guides on the computer base.
    - 5 Connect the Mini-Card antenna cables to the mini-card(s). See "Replacing the Mini-Card(s)" on page 47.
    - 6 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 7 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 8 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 19
Mini-Card Board
- Removing the Mini-Card Board
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 2 Remove the battery. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 3 Remove the mini-card(s). See "Removing the Mini-Card(s)" on page 45.
    - 4 Remove the center-control cover. See "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33.
    - 5 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 37.
    - 6 Remove the palm-rest assembly. See "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 41.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Remove the screws that secure the mini-card board to the computer base.
    - 2 Lift the mini-card board to disconnect the connector on the mini-card board from the connector on the system board.
- Replacing the Mini-Card Board
  - Procedure
    - 1 Align the connector on the mini-card board with the connector on the system board and press gently.
    - 2 Replace the three screws that secure the mini-card board to the computer base.
  - Postrequisites
    - 3 Replace the palm-rest assembly. See "Lift the palm-rest assembly off the computer base." on page 43.
    - 4 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 39.
    - 5 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 6 Replace the mini-card(s). See "Replacing the Mini-Card(s)" on page 47.
    - 7 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 8 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16.
    - 9 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page 13.
    - 20
System Board
- Removing the System Board
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Remove any installed card or blank from the 9-in-1 Media Card reader.
    - 2 Remove the base cover. See "Removing the Base Cover" on page 15.
    - 3 Remove the battery pack. See "Removing the Battery" on page 17.
    - 4 Remove the mini-card(s). See "Removing the Mini-Card(s)" on page 45.
    - 5 Follow the instructions from step 1 to step 3 in "Removing the Optical Drive" on page 19.
    - 6 Follow the instructions from step 1 to step 3 in Removing the Hard Drive.
    - 7 Remove the memory module(s). See "Removing the Memory Module(s)" on page 29.
    - 8 Remove the center-control cover. See "Removing the Center-Control Cover" on page 33.
    - 9 Remove the keyboard. See "Removing the Keyboard" on page 37.
    - 10 Remove the palm-rest assembly. See "Removing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 41.
    - 11 Remove the Mini-Card board. See "Removing the Mini-Card Board" on page 77.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Using the pull-tab, disconnect the display cable and the hard-drive cable from the connectors on the system board.
    - 2 Disconnect the logo-board cable, Bluetooth-card cable, coin-cell battery cable, and subwoofer cable from the connectors on the system board.
    - 3 Remove the screws that secure the system board to the computer base.
    - 4 Lift and ease the connectors on the system board out of the slots on the computer base.
    - 5 Turn the system board over.
    - 6 Remove the thermal fan. See "Removing the Thermal Fan" on page 87.
    - 7 Remove the thermal cooling assembly. See "Removing the Thermal Cooling Assembly" on page 89.
    - 8 Remove the processor module. See "Removing the Processor Module" on page 93.
- Replacing the System Board
  - Procedure
    - 1 Replace the processor module. See "Replacing the Processor Module" on page 95.
    - 2 Replace the thermal cooling assembly. See "Replacing the Thermal Cooling Assembly" on page 90.
    - 3 Replace the thermal fan. See "Replacing the Thermal Fan" on page 88.
    - 4 Turn the system board over.
    - 5 Align the connectors on the system board with the slots on the computer base and place it on the computer base.
    - 6 Replace the screws that secure the system board to the computer base.
    - 7 Connect the display cable, logo-board cable, Bluetooth-card cable, hard-drive cable, coin-cell battery cable, and subwoofer cable to the connectors on the system-board.
  - Postrequisites
    - 8 Replace the mini-card board. See "Replacing the Mini-Card Board" on page 78.
    - 9 Replace the palm-rest assembly. See "Replacing the Palm-Rest Assembly" on page 44.
    - 10 Replace the keyboard. See "Replacing the Keyboard" on page 39.
    - 11 Replace the center-control cover. See "Replacing the Center-Control Cover" on page 35.
    - 12 Replace the memory module(s). See "Replacing the Memory Module(s)" on page 31.
    - 13 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 5 in Replacing the Hard Drive.
    - 14 Follow the instructions from step 6 to step 8 in "Replacing the Optical Drive" on page 22.
    - 15 Replace the mini-card(s). See "Replacing the Mini-Card(s)" on page 47.
    - 16 Replace the battery. See "Replacing the Battery" on page 18.
    - 17 Replace the base cover. See "Replacing the Base Cover" on page 16)
    - 18 Replace any cards or blank that you removed from the 9-in-1 Media Card reader.
    - 19 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
- Entering the Service Tag in the BIOS
  - 1 Ensure that the AC adapter is plugged in and that the main battery is installed properly.
  - 2 Turn on the computer.
  - 3 Press <F2> during POST to enter the system setup program.
  - 4 Navigate to the Security tab and enter the service tag in the Set Service Tag field.
  - 21
Thermal Fan
- Removing the Thermal Fan
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Follow the instructions from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the System Board" on page 81.
  - Procedure
    - 1 Disconnect the thermal-fan cable from the connector on the system board.
    - 2 Remove the screws that secure the thermal fan to the system board.
    - 3 Lift the thermal fan and gently peel the tape that secures the thermal fan to the thermal cooling assembly.
- Replacing the Thermal Fan
  - Procedure
    - 1 Align the screw holes on the thermal fan with the screw holes on the system board.
    - 2 Adhere the tape to secure the thermal fan to the thermal cooling assembly.
    - 3 Replace the screws that secure the thermal fan to the system board.
    - 4 Connect the thermal-fan cable to the connector on the system board.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Follow the instructions from step 2 to step 18 in "Replacing the System Board" on page 84.
    - 2 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 22
Thermal Cooling Assembly
- Removing the Thermal Cooling Assembly
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Follow the instructions from step 1 to step 6 in "Removing the System Board" on page 81.
  - Procedure
    - 1 In sequential order (indicated on the thermal cooling assembly), loosen the captive screws that secure the thermal cooling assembly to the system board.
    - 2 Carefully lift thermal cooling assembly away from the system board.
- Replacing the Thermal Cooling Assembly
  - Procedure
    - 1 Clean the thermal grease from the bottom of the thermal cooling assembly and reapply it.
    - 2 Align the captive screws on the thermal cooling assembly with the screw holes on the system board and tighten the screws in sequential order (indicated on the thermal cooling assembly).
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Follow the instructions from step 3 to step 18 in "Replacing the System Board" on page 84.
    - 2 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 23
Processor Module
- Removing the Processor Module
  - Prerequisites
    - 1 Follow the instructions from step 1 to step 7 in "Removing the System Board" on page 81.
  - Procedure
    - 1 To loosen the ZIF socket, use a small, flat-blade screwdriver and rotate the ZIF-socket cam screw counterclockwise until it comes to the cam stop.
    - 2 Lift the processor module off the ZIF socket.
- Replacing the Processor Module
  - Procedure
    - 1 Align the pin-1 corner of the processor module with the pin-1 corner of the ZIF socket.
    - 2 Place the processor module lightly in the ZIF socket and ensure that the processor module is positioned correctly.
    - 3 Tighten the ZIF socket by turning the cam screw clockwise to secure the processor module to the system board.
  - Postrequisites
    - 1 Follow the instructions from step 2 to step 18 in "Replacing the System Board" on page 84.
    - 2 Follow the instructions in "After Working Inside Your Computer" on page13.
    - 24
System Setup
- Overview
- Entering System Setup
  - 1 Turn on (or restart) your computer.
  - 2 During POST, when the DELL logo is displayed, watch for the F2 prompt to appear and then press <F2> immediately.
  - System Setup Screens
  - Boot Sequence
    - Boot Options
    - Changing Boot Sequence for the Current Boot
      - 1 If you are booting from a USB device, connect the USB device to a USB connector.
      - 2 Turn on (or restart) your computer.
      - 3 When F2 Setup, F12 Boot Options appears in the lower-right corner of the screen, press <F12>.
      - 4 On the Boot Device Menu choose the device you want to boot from and press <Enter>.
    - Changing Boot Sequence for Future Boots
      - 1 Enter system setup. See "Entering System Setup" on page 97.
      - 2 Use the arrow keys to highlight the Boot menu option and press <Enter> to access the menu.
      - 3 Press the up- and down-arrow keys to move through the list of devices.
      - 4 Press plus (F5) or minus (F6) to change the boot priority of the device.
Flashing the BIOS

Dell Alienware M14X R2 Owner's Manual

Dell Alienware M14X R2 Laptop manual cover

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Owner's Manual

104 pages

Quick Start Guide

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Dell Alienware M14X R2 Laptop Specification

The Dell Alienware M14X R2 is a high-performance laptop designed for gaming and intensive computing tasks. It features a 14-inch WLED-backlit display with a resolution of 1600x900 pixels, providing vibrant colors and sharp details. Driven by third-generation Intel Core i7 processors, it delivers robust performance for multitasking and demanding applications. The laptop is equipped with NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M graphics, enhancing gaming experiences with smooth and detailed visuals. It supports up to 16GB of DDR3 RAM, ensuring swift and efficient data handling.

Storage options include a 750GB SATA hard drive, offering ample space for games, applications, and media files. The M14X R2 incorporates a slot-loading SuperMulti DVD drive, facilitating easy access to physical media. Connectivity is robust, with options such as HDMI, USB 3.0, and a Mini DisplayPort, along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities for wireless communication.

The laptop's design is characterized by AlienFX lighting, allowing users to customize the keyboard and chassis lighting for a personalized look. Its full-sized keyboard includes a numeric keypad, providing comfort and efficiency for extended use. Audio quality is enhanced by Klipsch speakers and Waves MaxxAudio technology, delivering immersive sound for gaming and entertainment.

The Alienware M14X R2 is powered by a 6-cell battery, offering decent autonomy for mobile use. Its build quality is sturdy, with a magnesium alloy frame and anodized aluminum shell, ensuring durability. This laptop is tailored for users seeking a balance between performance and portability, making it a suitable choice for gamers and professionals on the move.

Dell Alienware M14X R2 Laptop F.A.Q.

How can I improve the battery life of my Dell Alienware M14X R2?

To improve the battery life, reduce screen brightness, close unnecessary applications, disable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when not in use, and use power-saving modes. Updating your drivers and BIOS can also help improve efficiency.

What should I do if my Dell Alienware M14X R2 won't turn on?

First, ensure that the laptop is charged. Perform a hard reset by unplugging the AC adapter, removing the battery, and holding the power button for 30 seconds. Reconnect the battery and adapter, then attempt to power on the laptop.

How do I clean the fan of my Dell Alienware M14X R2?

Turn off and unplug your laptop. Open the back panel by removing the screws, then use compressed air to blow out dust from the fans. Be gentle to avoid damaging any components.

Why is my Dell Alienware M14X R2 overheating and how can I fix it?

Overheating can be due to dust build-up or software issues. Clean the vents and fans, ensure that the laptop is on a hard surface to allow airflow, and update your BIOS and drivers. Consider using a cooling pad.

How can I upgrade the RAM on my Dell Alienware M14X R2?

Turn off the laptop and unplug it. Remove the back cover by unscrewing the screws. Locate the RAM slots, carefully remove the existing RAM by pressing the clips on either side, and insert the new RAM until it clicks into place.

What is the best way to reset my Dell Alienware M14X R2 to factory settings?

To reset to factory settings, restart your laptop and press F8 during boot-up. Select "Repair Your Computer" and follow the on-screen instructions to perform a factory reset. Make sure to back up your data first.

How do I update the BIOS on my Dell Alienware M14X R2?

Visit the Dell Support website, enter your laptop model, and download the latest BIOS update. Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions. Ensure your laptop is plugged in during the update process.

What can I do if the keyboard on my Dell Alienware M14X R2 is not responding?

Restart your laptop and try reconnecting the keyboard. Check for any physical damage or obstructions. If the issue persists, update your keyboard driver through the Device Manager.

How do I adjust the touchpad sensitivity on my Dell Alienware M14X R2?

Go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Mouse. Click on the "Touchpad" tab or similar, then adjust the sensitivity settings according to your preference.

Why is my Dell Alienware M14X R2 running slow and how can I fix it?

Running slowly can be due to insufficient RAM, malware, or cluttered storage. Consider upgrading your RAM and storage, run a virus scan, and remove unnecessary files or applications. Regularly clean your system with disk cleanup tools.