Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
Regulatory model: P06T series Regulatory type: P06T003
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of data if instructions are not followed.
WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2011 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction of these materials in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell and the DELL logo are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Alienware is a trademark or registered trademark of Alienware Corporation; Bluetooth is a
registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used by Dell under license; Microsoft, Windows, and the Windows start button logo are either trademarks or registered
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any
proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
03 - 2011 Rev. A00
Before You Begin
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
This manual provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your computer. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure assumes that the
following conditions exist:
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You have read the safety information that shipped with your computer.
A component can be replaced or—if purchased separately—installed by performing the removal procedure in reverse order.
Recommended Tools
The procedures in this document may require the following tools:
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Small flat-blade screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Plastic scribe
BIOS executable update program at support.dell.com
Turning Off Your Computer
CAUTION: To avoid losing data, save and close all open files and exit all open programs before you turn off your computer.
1. Save and close all open files and exit all open programs.
2. Click Start
, and then click Shut Down.
The computer turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes.
3. Ensure that the computer and any attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut
down your operating system, press and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off.
Before Working Inside Your Computer
Use the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer from potential damage and to help to ensure your own personal safety.
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your computer).
CAUTION: Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts on a card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal
mounting bracket. Hold a component such as a processor by its edges, not by its pins.
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: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its pull-tab, not on the cable itself. Some cables have connectors with locking
tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep
them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented
and aligned.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the computer, perform the following steps before you begin working inside the computer.
1. Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent the computer cover from being scratched.
CAUTION: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug the cable from the network device.
3. Disconnect all telephone or network cables from the computer.
4. Press and eject any installed cards from the 3-in--1 Media Card Reader.
5. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.
6. Disconnect all attached devices from your computer.
CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see Removing the Battery Pack) before working inside the
computer.
8. Turn the computer top-side up, open the display, and press the power button to ground the system board.
Contacting Alienware
For customers in the United States/Canada, call 1-800-ALIENWARE.
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.
Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options. Because availability varies by country and product, some services may not be
available in your area.
To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues:
2. Select your country or region.
3. Select the appropriate service or support link based on your need.
4. Choose the method of contacting Dell that is convenient for you.
System Setup
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
Configuring the System Setup
The System Setup options allow you to:
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Change the system configuration information after you add, change or remove any hardware in your laptop.
Set or change a user-selectable option.
View the installed amount of memory or set the type of hard drive installed.
Before you use System Setup, it is recommended that you write down the current System Setup information for future reference.
CAUTION: Do not change the settings in System Setup unless you are an expert computer user. Certain changes can cause your computer to work
incorrectly.
Entering System Setup
1. Turn on (or restart) your laptop.
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 release <F2> in even intervals until the System Setup screen appears.
2. While the laptop is booting, press <F2> immediately before the operating system logo appears to access the BIOS Setup Utility. If an error occurs
during POST (Power On Self Test), you may also enter the BIOS Setup Utility by pressing <F2> when prompted.
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NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft Windows desktop, then shut
down your laptop and try again.
System Setup Screens
The BIOS Setup Utility window displays current or changeable configuration information for your laptop. Information is divided into five menus: Main,
Advanced, Security, Boot, and Exit.
Key functions appear at the bottom of the BIOS Setup Utility window and lists keys and their functions within the active field.
System Setup Options
NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed in this section may not appear, or may not appear exactly as listed.
Main Menu
System Time
System Date
Alienware
Displays the system time.
Displays the system date.
Displays the model number of your computer.
Displays the service tag of your computer.
Displays the BIOS version.
Service Tag
BIOS Version
EC Version
ME version
CPU
Displays the EC firmware version.
Displays the Intel® ME firmware version.
Displays the type of processor installed.
Displays the speed of the processor.
Displays the processor cache size.
CPU Frequency
CPU L3 Cache
Integrated Graphics Displays the integrated graphics card supported on your computer.
Discrete Graphics
CPU ID
Displays the primary discrete graphics card installed on your computer.
Displays the ID of the processor.
Total Memory
Memory Bank 0
Memory Bank 1
Displays the total memory available in your computer.
Displays the memory size installed in DIMM 0.
Displays the memory size installed in DIMM 1.
Advanced Menu
Intel SpeedStep
Allows you to enable or disable the Intel SpeedStep technology. Disabling this feature may improve performance, but will greatly
reduce battery life.
Virtualization
USB Emulation
Allows you to enable or disable the Intel Virtualization technology.
Allows you to enable or disable the USB emulation feature. This feature defines how the BIOS, in the absence of a USB-aware
operating system, handles USB devices. USB emulation is always enabled during POST (Power On Self Test).
NOTE: You cannot boot any type of USB device (floppy, hard drive, or memory key) when this option is off.
USB Wake Support
Allows you to enable USB devices to wake the computer from standby or to disable the USB wake support feature.
NOTE: If USB Powershare is enabled, a device connected to the USB Powershare connector may not wake the computer.
Allows you to enable or disable charging of devices plugged into the USB Powershare connector while in battery mode.
Allows you to enable or disable the on-board LAN controller.
USB PowerShare
Integrated Network
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Disabled: Internal LAN is disabled and is not visible to the operating system.
Enabled: Internal LAN is enabled.
High Definition
Audio
Allows you to enable or disable the internal high definition audio device.
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Disabled: The internal audio device is disabled and is not visible to the operating system.
Enabled: The internal audio device is enabled.
SD Card Reader
CPU Turbo Mode
Allows you to enable or disable the internal SD card reader.
Allows you to enable or disable the Intel CPU turbo mode performance option.
Performance Options Allows you to enable or disable all over-clocking functions.
SATA Operation
Allows you to configure the operating mode of the integrated SATA hard drive controller.
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ATA: SATA is configured for ATA mode.
AHCI: SATA is configured for AHCI mode.
SATA Hard Drive
Adapter Warnings
Displays the installed SATA hard drive model.
Allows you to choose if the computer should display warning messages when you use certain power adapters. The computer displays
these messages if you attempt to use a power adapter that has too little capacity for your configuration.
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Disabled: BIOS will not detect unsupported AC adapters and will not display any message on the screen.
Enabled: BIOS will detect unsupported AC adapters and display an error on the screen.
Charger Behavior
Allows you to enable or disable battery charging.
Wireless Menu
Bluetooth
Allows you to enable or disable the internal Bluetooth device.
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Disabled: The internal Bluetooth device is disabled and is not visible to the operating system.
Enabled: The internal Bluetooth device is enabled.
Wireless Network
Allows you to enable or disable the internal wireless device.
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Disabled: The internal wireless device is disabled and is not visible to the operating system.
Enabled: The internal wireless device is enabled.
WWAN
Allows you to enable or disable the internal WWAN device.
Allows you to enable or disable all the internal wireless devices.
Wireless
Switch/Hotkey
Security Menu
Supervisor Password Displays if the supervisor password is clear or set.
User Password Displays if the user password is clear or set.
Set Service Tag
Allows you to set the service tag of your computer, if a service tag has not already been set.
Set Supervisor
Password
Allows you to set the supervisor password. The supervisor password controls access to the system setup utility.
Set User Password
Computrace
Allows you to set the user password. The user password controls access to the computer at boot.
Allows you to enable or disable the Computrace security feature on your computer.
Boot Menu
Use the <F5> or <F6> keys to change the boot device priority. You can choose from:
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Hard Drive
USB Storage
CD/DVD/BD
Removal Devices
Network
Exit Menu
Exit Saving Changes Allows you to exit System Setup and save your changes to CMOS.
Save Change Without Allows you remain in System Setup and save your changes to CMOS.
Exit
Exit Discarding
Changes
Allows you to exit System Setup and load previous values from CMOS for all Setup items.
Allows you to load default values for all Setup items.
Load Optimal
Defaults
Discard Changes
Allows you to load previous values from CMOS for all Setup items.
Base Cover
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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 avoid damage to the computer, use only the battery designed for this particular Alienware computer. Do not use batteries
designed for other Alienware computers.
Removing the Base Cover
2. Turn the computer over.
3. Loosen the eight captive screws that secure the base cover to the computer base.
4. Lift the base cover off the computer base.
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captive screws (8)
tabs (3)
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base cover
Replacing the Base Cover
CAUTION: To avoid damage to the computer, use only the battery designed for this particular Alienware computer.
2. Align the tabs on the base cover with the slots on the computer base and place the base cover in position.
3. Tighten the eight screws that secure the base cover to the computer base.
Internal Card With Bluetooth Wireless Technology
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
If you ordered a card with Bluetooth wireless technology with your computer, it is already installed.
Removing the Bluetooth Card
9. Remove the screw that secures the Bluetooth card to the system board.
10. Lift the Bluetooth card to disconnect it from the connector on the system board.
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screw
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Bluetooth card
Replacing the Bluetooth Card
2. Align the connector on the Bluetooth card with the connector on the system board and press gently.
3. Replace the screw that secures the Bluetooth card to the system board.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
Coin-Cell Battery
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
Removing the Coin-Cell Battery
9. Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the connector on the system board.
10. The coin-cell battery is glued to the system board. Using a plastic scribe, pry the coin-cell battery from the system board.
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coin-cell battery cable connector
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coin-cell battery
Replacing the Coin-Cell Battery
2. Use the adhesive on the coin-cell battery and adhere it to the system board.
3. Connect the coin-cell battery cable to the connector on the system board.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
Display Assembly
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
Removing the Display Assembly
6. Disconnect the antenna cables from the Mini-Card(s).
7. Note the routing of the Mini-Card antenna cables and remove them from the routing guides on the computer base.
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Mini-Card antenna cables
8. Turn the computer over and open the display as far as possible.
12. Pull the pull-tab to disconnect the display cable from the connector on the system board.
13. Remove the four screws that secure the display assembly to the computer base.
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screws (4)
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display cable connector
14. Gently slide the Mini-Card antenna cables out through the slot on the computer base.
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Mini-Card antenna cables
15. Lift the display assembly off the computer.
Replacing the Display Assembly
2. Slide the antenna cables in through the slot on the computer base.
3. Place the display assembly in position and replace the four screws that secure the display assembly to the computer base.
4. Connect the display cable to the connector on the system board.
5. Turn the computer over and route the Mini-Card antenna cables through the routing guides on the computer base.
6. Connect the Mini-Card antenna cables to the Mini-Card(s).
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
Flashing the BIOS
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
1. Turn on the computer.
2. Go to support.dell.com/support/downloads.
3. Locate the BIOS update file for your computer:
NOTE: The Service Tag for your computer is located on a label at the bottom of the computer.
If you have your computer's Service Tag:
a. Click Enter a Service Tag.
b. Enter your computer's Service Tag in the Enter a service tag: field, click Go, and proceed to step 4.
If you do not have your computer's Service Tag:
a. Click Select Model.
b. Select the type of product in the Select Your Product Family list.
c. Select the product brand in the Select Your Product Line list.
d. Select the product model number in the Select Your Product Model list.
NOTE: If you have selected a different model and want to start over again, click Start Over on the top right of the menu.
e. Click Confirm.
4. A list of results appear on the screen. Click BIOS.
5. Click Download Now to download the latest BIOS file.
The File Download window appears.
6. Click Save to save the file on your desktop. The file downloads to your desktop.
7. Click Close if the Download Complete window appears.
The file icon appears on your desktop and is titled the same as the downloaded BIOS update file.
8. Double-click the file icon on the desktop and follow the instructions on the screen.
Hard Drive
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
WARNING: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot, do not touch the metal housing of the hard drive.
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your computer).
CAUTION: To help prevent damage to the system board, remove the main battery (see Removing the Battery Pack) before working inside the
computer.
CAUTION: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see Turning Off Your Computer) before removing the hard-drive assembly. Do not
remove the hard drive while the computer is On or in Sleep state.
CAUTION: Hard drives are extremely fragile. Exercise care when handling the hard drive.
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: When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its pull-tab, not on the cable itself. Some cables have connectors with locking
tabs; if you are disconnecting this type of cable, press in on the locking tabs before you disconnect the cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep
them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you connect a cable, ensure that both connectors are correctly oriented
and aligned.
NOTE: Dell or Alienware does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than Dell.
NOTE: If you are installing a hard drive from a source other than Dell or Alienware, you need to install an operating system, drivers, and utilities on the
new hard drive.
Removing the Hard Drive
4. Loosen the three captive screws that secure the hard-drive assembly to the computer base.
5. Using the pull-tab, pull the hard-drive assembly to disconnect the hard- drive assembly from the connector on the system board.
6. Lift the hard-drive assembly off the computer base.
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pull-tab
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captive screws (3)
hard-drive assembly
7. Remove the four screws that secure the hard-drive bracket to the hard drive.
8. Lift the hard-drive bracket away from the hard drive.
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screws (4)
hard drive
2
hard-drive bracket
9. Disconnect the interposer from the hard drive.
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interposer
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hard drive
CAUTION: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging (see "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge"
in the safety instructions that shipped with your computer).
Replacing the Hard Drive
2. Remove the new drive from its packaging.
Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive.
3. Connect the interposer to the hard drive.
4. Place the hard drive in the hard-drive bracket.
5. Replace the four screws that secure the hard-drive bracket to the hard drive.
6. Place the hard-drive assembly in the computer base.
7. Press the hard-drive assembly along the pull-tab to connect the hard drive assembly to the connector on the system board.
8. Tighten the three captive screws that secure the hard-drive assembly to the computer base.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
11. Install the operating system for your computer, as needed.
12. Install the drivers and utilities for your computer, as needed.
Hinge Cover
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
Removing the Hinge Cover
4. Turn the computer over and open the display as far as possible.
5. Using a plastic scribe, gently pry the hinge cover along the side and then ease the hinge cover from the computer base.
6. Lift the hinge cover to disengage the hinge cover tabs from the computer base.
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plastic scribe
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hinge cover
7. Lift the hinge cover off the computer base.
Replacing the Hinge Cover
2. Align the tabs on the hinge cover with the slots on the computer base and snap the cover in place.
3. Close the display and turn the computer over.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
I/O Board
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
Removing the I/O Board
9. Disconnect the speaker cable from the connector on the I/O board.
10. Remove the three screws that secure the I/O board to the computer base.
11. Using the pull-tab, gently pull the I/O board to disconnect it from the connector on the system board and ease the connectors on the I/O board out of
the slots on the computer.
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speaker cable connector
screws (3)
2
I/O board
Replacing the I/O Board
2. Align the connectors on the I/O board with the slots on the computer base.
3. Use the pull-tab to align the connector on the I/O board with the connector on the system board and press gently.
4. Replace the three screws that secure the I/O board to the computer base.
5. Connect the speaker cable to the connector on the I/O board.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
Keyboard
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
Removing the Keyboard
6. Remove the two screws that secure the keyboard to the computer base.
CAUTION: The keycaps on the keyboard are fragile, easily dislodged, and time-consuming to replace. Be careful when removing and handling the
keyboard.
CAUTION: Be extremely careful when removing and handling the keyboard. Failure to do so could result in scratching the display panel.
7. Turn the computer over and open the display as far as possible.
9. Remove the two screws that secure the keyboard to the computer base.
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screws (2)
tabs (5)
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4
keyboard
palm rest assembly
10. Carefully lift the keyboard and slide the keyboard tabs out of the slots on the palm rest.
11. Carefully turn the keyboard over and place it on the palm rest.
12. Lift the connector latches and pull the pull-tabs to disconnect the keyboard cable and backlit keyboard cable from their connectors on the system board.
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backlit keyboard cable
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keyboard cable
13. Lift the keyboard off the palm rest assembly.
Replacing the Keyboard
2. Slide the keyboard cable and backlit keyboard cable into their connectors on the system board and press down on their connector latches to secure the
cables.
3. Slide the tabs on the keyboard into the slots on the palm rest assembly and lower the keyboard into place.
4. Gently press around the edges of the keyboard to secure the keyboard under the tabs on the palm rest assembly.
5. Replace the two screws that secure the keyboard to the computer base.
7. Close the display and turn the computer over.
8. Replace the two screws that secure the keyboard to the computer base.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
Status Light Board
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
Removing the Status Light Board
9. Turn the palm rest assembly over.
10. Disconnect the speaker lights cable from the connector on the status light board.
11. Push the connector latch up and pull the pull-tab to disconnect the power board cable from the connector on the status light board.
12. Lift the connector latch and pull the pull-tab to disconnect the status light board cable from the connector on the status light board.
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speaker lights cable connector
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power board cable connector
status light board cable connector
13. Remove the five screws that secure the status light board to the palm rest assembly.
14. Lift the status light board off the palm rest assembly.
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status light board
2
screws (5)
Replacing the Status Light Board
2. Place the status light board on the palm rest assembly and replace the five screws that secure the status light board to the palm rest assembly.
3. Connect the speaker lights cable to the connector on the status light board.
4. Insert the status light board cable into the connector on the status light board and press the connector latch into the connector to secure the cable.
5. Insert the power board cable into the connector on the status light board and press down on the connector latch to secure the cable.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
Memory Module(s)
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. See "Specifications" in your Mobile Manual for information on the
type of memory 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 connectors.
Removing the Memory Module(s)
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory-module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory module securing clips.
4. Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory-module connector until the memory module pops up.
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3
memory-module connector
memory module
2
securing clips (2)
5. Remove the memory module from the memory-module connector.
Replacing the Memory Module(s)
NOTE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the lower connector before you install a memory module in
the upper connector.
2. Align the notch in the memory module with the tab in the memory- module connector.
3. Slide the memory module firmly into the connector at a 45-degree angle, and press the memory module down until it clicks into place. If you do not hear
the click, remove the memory module and reinstall it.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot.
1
3
memory-module connector
notch
2
tab
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
6. Turn on the computer.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer:
Click Start
® Control Panel® System and Security® System.
Wireless Mini-Card(s)
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
NOTE: Dell or Alienware does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for Mini-Cards from sources other than Dell or Alienware.
If you ordered a wireless Mini-Card with your computer, the card is already installed.
Your computer supports two Mini-Card slots:
l
l
One full Mini-Card slot — for WWAN
One half Mini-Card slot — for WLAN
NOTE: Depending on the configuration of the computer when it was sold, the Mini-Card slot may or may not have a Mini-Card installed.
Removing the Mini-Card(s)
4. Disconnect the antenna cables from the Mini-Card.
1
3
screw
2
antenna cables (2)
Mini-Card
5. Remove the screw that secures the Mini-Card to the system board.
6. Lift the Mini-Card out of the connector on the system board.
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.
Replacing the Mini-Card(s)
2. Remove the new Mini-Card from its packaging.
CAUTION: Use firm and even pressure to slide the card into place. If you use excessive force, you may damage the connector.
CAUTION: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the connectors on the card and on the system
board, and realign the card.
3. Insert the Mini-Card connector at a 45-degree angle into the connector on the system board.
4. 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.
5. Connect the appropriate antenna cables to the Mini-Card you are installing. The following table provides the antenna cable color scheme for each Mini-
Card supported by your computer.
Connectors on the Mini-Card
WWAN (2 antenna cables)
Antenna Cable Color Scheme
Main WWAN (white triangle)
white with gray stripe
Auxiliary WWAN (black triangle) black with gray stripe
WLAN (2 antenna cables)
Main WLAN (white triangle)
white
Auxiliary WLAN (black triangle) black
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
8. Install the drivers and utilities for your computer, as required.
NOTE: If you are installing a Mini-card from a source other than Dell or Alienware, you must install the appropriate drivers and utilities.
Palm Rest Assembly
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
Removing the Palm Rest Assembly
6. Remove the nine screws that secure the palm rest to the computer base.
7. Turn the computer over and open the display as far as possible.
CAUTION: Pull the pull-tabs on top of the connectors to avoid damage to the connectors.
10. Lift the connector latches and pull the pull-tabs to disconnect the touch pad cable and status light board cable from their connectors on the system
board.
11. Remove the three screws that secure the palm rest assembly to the computer base.
1
3
status light board cable connector
touch pad cable connector
2
screws (3)
12. Using a plastic scribe carefully pry out the palm rest assembly along the rear edge and then ease the palm rest assembly from the computer base.
13. Hold the palm rest assembly perpendicular to the computer base and disconnect the Alienware logo light cable from the connector on the status light
board.
1
Alienware logo light cable
CAUTION: Carefully separate the palm rest assembly from the computer base to avoid damage to the palm rest assembly.
14. Lift the palm rest assembly off the computer base.
Replacing the Palm Rest Assembly
2. Connect the Alienware logo light cable to the connector on the status light board.
3. Align the palm rest assembly on the computer base and gently snap the palm rest assembly into place.
4. Replace the three screws that secure the palm rest assembly to the computer base.
5. Slide the touch pad cable and status light board cable into their connectors on the system board, and press down on their connector latches to secure
the cables.
8. Close the display and turn the computer over.
9. Replace the nine screws that secure the palm rest assembly to the computer base.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
Power Button Board
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
Removing the Power Button Board
10. Remove the two screws that secure the power button board to the palm rest assembly.
1
power button board
2
screws (2)
11. Lift the power button board off the palm rest assembly.
Replacing the Power Button Board
2. Place the power button board on the palm rest assembly and replace the two screws that secure the power button board to the palm rest assembly.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
Speakers
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
Removing the Speakers
1
speakers (2)
2
screws (3)
3. Remove the three screws that secure the speakers to the computer base.
4. Note the routing of the speaker cable and remove the speakers and cable from the computer base.
Replacing the Speakers
2. Place the speakers on the computer base and route the speaker cables in the routing guides.
3. Replace the three screws that secure the speakers to the computer base.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
System Board
Alienware® M11x R3 Service Manual
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.
CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal
surface (such as a connector on your 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) before working inside the
computer.
CAUTION: Handle components by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts.
The system board's BIOS chip contains the Service Tag, which is also visible on a barcode label at the bottom of the computer.
Removing the System Board
2. Remove any installed card or blank from the 3-in-1 Media Card reader.
®
15. Remove the four screws that secure the system board to the computer base.
1
system board
2
screws (4)
16. Carefully ease the connectors on the system board out of the slots in the computer, and lift the system board off the computer base.
Replacing the System Board
2. Align the connectors on the system board with the slots on the computer base and place it on the computer base.
3. Replace the four screws that secure the system board to the computer base.
16. Replace any cards or blank that you removed from the 3-in-1 Media Card reader.
CAUTION: Before turning on the computer, replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside the computer. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the computer.
17. Turn on the computer.
NOTE: After you have replaced the system board, enter the computer Service Tag into the BIOS of the replacement system board.
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.
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