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Dear Valued Alienware Customer, Welcome to the Alienware family. We are thrilled to include you among the growing number of savvy high-performance mobile users. The Alienware technicians who have crafted your machine have made certain that your high- performance mobile is properly optimized and performs to its fullest potential. We build machines with one single unwavering purpose: Build It As If It Were Your Own.
Before setting up your laptop or components, see the included invoice to verify that all items ordered are present and be sure to inspect all items for any physical damage that may have occurred during shipment.
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Do not place the laptop in a humid location or in any area where the laptop may be exposed to rain or water. Be careful not to spill liquid of any kind on or into the laptop.
CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP Connect the AC Adapter WARNING: The AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors and power strips vary among countries. Using an incompatible cable or improperly connecting the cable to a power strip or electrical outlet may cause fire or...
NOTE: It is recommended that you create a full system backup as soon as you set up Microsoft Windows. To create a full system backup, see “Dell DataSafe Local Backup” on page 87. CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP Windows operating system.
CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP Connect to the Internet (Optional) Setting Up a Wired Connection • If you are using a dial-up connection, connect the telephone line to the optional external USB modem and to the telephone wall jack before you set up your Internet connection.
Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs. → Control Panel. Start Click network, and then click Network and Sharing Center→ Connect In the search box, type to a network. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP...
CHAPTER 1: SETTING UP YOUR LAPTOP Setting Up Your Internet Connection ISPs and ISP offerings vary by country. Contact your ISP for offerings available in your country. If you cannot connect to the Internet but have successfully connected in the past, the Internet Service Provider (ISP) might have a service outage.
CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP This chapter provides information about your new laptop to familiarize you with its various features, and get you up and running quickly. Left View Features...
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— Connects to a TV for both multi-channel digital audio and video signals. NOTE: For a monitor without built-in speakers, only the video signal will be read. CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP — Connects your computer to external monitors and...
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CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP USB connector with USB PowerShare mouse, keyboard, printer, external drive, or MP3 player. The USB Powershare feature allows you to charge USB devices when the computer is powered on/off or in sleep state.
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Internet, check e-mail, and connect to a Virtual Private Network. To access the Internet, you must be within the network of your cellular service provider. CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP — Provides a fast and convenient way to view and...
CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP Right View Features Audio out/Headphone connectors (2) powered speaker or sound system. Audio in/Microphone connector use with audio programs. USB connectors (2) printer, external drive, or MP3 player. — Connect to a pair of headphones or to a —...
CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP Back View Features AC adapter connector — Connects to an AC adapter to power the computer and charge the battery.
CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP Display Features 1 2 3...
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4 Display — Your display can vary based on selections you made when purchasing your computer. For more information about displays, see the Dell Technology Guide available on your hard drive or at support.dell.com/manuals. CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP...
CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP Computer Base and Keyboard Features...
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— Provide left- and right-click functions like those on a mouse. 4 Touch pad — Provides the functionality of a mouse to move the cursor, drag or move selected items, and left-click by tapping the surface. CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP...
CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP Power Button You can program this button to perform actions like shutting down the operating system or entering the standby mode. For details on how to program this button, see Power Options in the control panel of Microsoft ®...
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For more details on standby and hibernate mode, see Power Options in the control panel of your Microsoft Windows operating system. CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP The battery is fully charged. The computer is turned off or on and the battery is charging.
CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP Function Keys NOTE: Depending on the configuration of the laptop you purchased, some of the function keys may have no associated tasks. The <Fn> key is located near the bottom-left corner of the keyboard, and is used together with other keys to activate certain functions.
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CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP F5 — Decrease Display Brightness Press <Fn><F5> to decrease the brightness of the display. F7 — Mute on/off Press <Fn><F7> to enable or disable the mute function. F8 — Decrease volume Press <Fn><F8> to decrease the volume level.
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CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO KNOW YOUR LAPTOP PAUSE — Alienware Command Center Press <Fn><PAUSE> to access Alienware Command Center (for more information, see “Alienware Command Center” on page 36). PRT SCRN — AlienFX Press <Fn><PRT SCRN> to enable or disable the AlienFX illumination.
CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP Alienware Command Center The Alienware Command Center gives you access to Alienware’ s exclusive software and is a ® continuously upgradable control panel. As Alienware releases new programs, they download directly into the Command Center allowing you to build a library of system management, optimization, and customization tools.
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Connection Type Computer HDMI-to-HDMI (HDMI cable) DisplayPort- to-DisplayPort (DisplayPort cable) DisplayPort-to-DVI (DisplayPort-to- DVI adapter + DVI cable) NOTE: You can purchase the DisplayPort-to-DVI adapter and additional HDMI cables at www.dell.com. CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP Cable Display...
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If necessary, connect one end of the power cable to the display’ s power connector. Connect the other end of the power cable to a grounded three-prong power strip or wall outlet. Turn on your laptop, and then turn on your display.
When no media card (SD/MMC/MS cards) is inserted into the media card slot, ensure that the blank cards that shipped with your laptop is inserted in the unused slot(s). The blank cards protect the unused slots from dust and other particles. When inserting a blank card, ensure that the correct side is on the top (indicated by an arrow mark on some blank cards).
<Fn><F3> the first time. Battery Pack Your laptop is equipped with a high-energy rechargeable lithium ion prismatic (Li-ion) battery pack. Battery life will vary depending on your laptop configuration, model, applications installed, power management settings, and features used.
• High Performance — Provides the highest level of system performance on your computer by adapting processor speed to your activity and by maximizing system performance. CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP Windows operating system installed on your computer ®...
Select a power plan from the options shown. To customize specific settings, click plan settings next to the selected power plan. Reducing Power Consumption Although your laptop (together with the operating system) is capable of power conservation, there are measures you can take to reduce the power consumption: •...
Optimus Technology Your Alienware M11x laptop is equipped with nVidia’ s Optimus technology. The Optimus technology is designed to maximize performance and user experience on your computer, while minimizing the impact on battery life. It enables you to combine the graphic processing capability of the integrated Intel while running graphic-intensive applications such as 3-D games.
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CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP Changing the Application Profile Settings Right-click on the desktop and select In the NVIDIA Control Panel window, click 3D Settings to expand the selection (if not already expanded) and then click Manage 3D Settings. Program Settings tab, click Add and browse to select the application’ s executable In the file (.exe).
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. CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP...
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.
NOTE: Depending on your computer and installed devices, the items listed in this section may not appear, or may not appear exactly as listed. NOTE: For the updated system setup information, see the Service Manual at support. dell.com/manuals. Main Menu System Time Displays the system time.
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CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP Main Menu CPU ID Total Memory Memory Bank 0 Memory Bank 1 Advanced Menu Intel SpeedStep ® Use XD Capability USB Emulation Displays the ID of the processor. Displays the total memory available in your computer.
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Audio audio device. • • CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP Disabled: The IEEE 1394 A connector is disabled and is not visible to the operating system. Enabled: The IEEE 1394 A connector is enabled. Disabled: Internal LAN is disabled and is not visible to the operating system.
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CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP Advanced Menu SD Card Reader CPU Turbo Mode CPU Over-Clocking SATA Operation SATA HARD DRIVE Allows you to enable or disable the internal SD card reader. Allows you to enable or disable the Intel CPU turbo mode performance option.
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Allows you to enable or disable charging of devices plugged into the USB Powershare connector while in Battery Mode. CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP Disabled: BIOS will not detect unsupported A/C adapters and will not display any message to screen.
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CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP Wireless Menu Bluetooth Wireless Network WWAN Security Menu Supervisor Password User Password Set Supervisor Password Allows you to enable or disable the internal Bluetooth device. • Disabled: The internal Bluetooth device is disabled and is not visible to the operating system.
Fail Safe Allows you see if the Phoenix FailSafe™ security software is enabled or disabled. The Phoenix FailSafe software allows you to protect, track, and manage your laptop and your digital files if your laptop is lost or stolen. Boot Menu Use the <F5>...
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CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP Exit Menu Exit Saving Changes Save Change Without Exit Exit Discarding Changes Load Optimal Defaults Discard Changes Allows you to exit System Setup and save your changes to CMOS. Allows you remain in System Setup and save your changes to CMOS.
You can purchase components for your computer at www.dell.com or www.alienware.com. NOTE: See the Service Manual at support.dell.com/manuals for installation instructions of all serviceable components. Parts purchased from Dell and Alienware will ship with specific replacement instructions. Before You Begin This section provides procedures for removing and installing the components in your laptop.
Click Start The laptop turns off after the operating system shutdown process finishes. 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.
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 electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface (such as a connector on the back of the computer).
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CAUTION: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug the cable from the network device. Disconnect all telephone or network cables from the laptop. Press and eject any installed cards from the Media Card Reader.
This battery pack can easily be removed and replaced. Ensure that the laptop is properly shut down before changing the battery pack. CAUTION: To avoid damage to the laptop, use only the battery designed for this particular Alienware laptop. Do not use batteries designed for other Alienware or Dell laptops. To remove the battery pack: Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin”...
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CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS captive screws (8) 2 base cover...
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CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS Remove the two screws that secure the battery pack to the computer base. Disconnect the battery pack cable from the connector on the system board. Lift and slide the battery pack out of the computer. battery pack 2 screws (2) To replace the battery pack, perform the removal steps in reverse order.
Upgrading or Replacing Memory Your laptop is equipped with a configurable memory unit. The industry standard JEDEC PC3-8500/PC3-10600 (DDR3) SODIMM memory module connectors are available for memory upgrade. The table below illustrates all the possible ways system memory can be configured.
CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS Removing the Memory Module(s) Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery (see “Replacing the Battery Pack” on page Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the memory module connector’ s spring-locks until the module pops up.
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To replace the memory modules, perform the removal steps in reverse order. While inserting the memory module into the connector align the notch on the memory module with the tab on the memory module connector. 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.
CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS Upgrading or Replacing the Hard Drive Assembly Your laptop is equipped with one hard drive socket. Removing the Hard Drive Follow the instructions in “Before You Begin” on page Remove the battery (see “Replacing the Battery Pack” on page Loosen the three captive screws on the hard drive assembly.
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hard drive 2 pull-tab Remove the four screws that secure the hard drive to the hard drive bracket. Lift the hard drive bracket of the hard drive according to the illustration. CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS...
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CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS hard drive bracket 3 hard drive 2 screws (4)
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CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS Remove the interposer from the hard drive. hard drive 2 interposer To replace the hard drive, perform the removal steps in reverse order.
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CHAPTER 4: INSTALLING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS...
Brightness: Check and adjust the brightness of the display by pressing the key combinations <Fn><F4> or <Fn><F5>. • Display Choice: Press the key combination <Fn><F1> to ensure that the computer is not set to “External Only” display. • Use only the AC adapter that shipped with your laptop.
Backup and General Maintenance • Always backup your important data on a regular basis and keep copies of your operating system and software safe. Do not forget to note the serial numbers if you are storing them outside of their original cases - e.g., in a CD wallet. •...
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CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING When troubleshooting your computer, remember the following safety guidelines: • Before touching any of the computer’ s internal components, touch an unpainted portion of the chassis. Doing so will safely discharge any static electricity, which could damage your computer.
To invoke PSA: Turn on (or restart) your computer. Shut down and restart the laptop. When the Alienware logo appears, press <F12> immediately. NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft try again.
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NOTE: Back up all data before initiating a system recovery. Review your laptop’ s configuration information, and ensure that the device that you want to test displays in the system setup program and is active. Start the Alienware Diagnostics from the backup disc.
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Insert the drivers and utilities backup disc that you created. Shut down and restart the laptop. When the Alienware logo appears, press <F12> immediately. NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft try again.
CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING After all tests have completed, close the test window to return to the Alienware Diagnostics Main Menu. Remove the backup disc, then close the Diagnostics and restart the computer. Answers to Common Problems System The computer fails the POST The POST (Power On Self Test) tests the computer, ensuring that it meets the necessary system requirements and that all hardware is working properly before starting the remainder of the boot process.
The computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears CAUTION: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown. If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press and hold the power button for at least 6 seconds until the computer turns off, then restart your computer.
CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING A program is designed for an earlier version of Microsoft Run the Program Compatibility Wizard: The Program Compatibility Wizard configures a program so that it runs in an environment similar to an earlier version of Microsoft Windows operating system environments. →...
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Scan the computer for spyware: If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently receive pop-up advertisements, or you are having problems connecting to the Internet, your computer might be infected with spyware. Use an anti-virus program that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware.
CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING Hard Drive Problems Allow the computer to cool before turning it on A hot hard drive may prevent the operating system from starting. Try allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on. Run Check Disk →...
Memory Memory errors detected on startup • Check memory modules for correct seating and orientation. Reseat the memory modules if applicable (see “Upgrading or Replacing Memory” on page 63). • Computers using a dual-channel memory configuration require that memory modules be installed in pairs.
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CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING Power When you press the power button, the computer does not turn on • If the AC adapter cable is connected to a surge protector or UPS, ensure that the surge protector or UPS is securely connected to an electrical outlet, is switched on and is working correctly.
— You can download the latest drivers for your computer from support.dell.com. System Applications • not include a backup CD/DVD. This software is available at My Dell Downloads (downloadstore.dell.com/media). NOTE: My Dell Downloads may not be available in all regions. — Contains operating system installation media.
Dell DataSafe Local Backup Dell DataSafe Local Backup is a backup and recovery application that can restore your computer if you lose data due to a virus attack, accidentally delete critical files or folders, or if the hard drive crashes.
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NOTE: The restoration process may take an hour or more depending on the size of the data to be restored. NOTE: For more information on Dell DataSafe Local Backup, see knowledge base article 353560 at support.dell.com. ® Windows ®...
NOTE: Dell DataSafe Online Backup may not be available in all regions. NOTE: A broadband connection is recommended for fast upload/download speeds. Dell DataSafe Online is an automated backup and recovery service that helps protect your data and other important files from catastrophic incidents like theft, fire, or natural disasters.
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Depth Weight with 8-cell battery (starting at) 32.7 mm (1.29 inches) 285.7 mm (11.25 inches) 233.3 mm (9.19 inches) 2.0 kg (4.4 lbs) NOTE: The weight of your laptop will vary depending on the configuration ordered and the manufacturing variability.
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Processor and System Chipset Processor L2 cache L3 cache Bus clock System chipset SDRAM bus width Processor address bus width Processor data width BIOS EPROM Graphics bus PCI bus CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS Intel Core™ i3 ® Intel Core i5 Intel Core i7 256 KB up to 4 MB 133 Mhz...
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CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS Memory Connectors Capacities Memory type Memory configurations possible IEEE 1394 A IEEE 1394 A controller IEEE 1394 interface two internally-accessible DDR3 SODIMM sockets 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB 1066 MHz and 1333 MHz (operates at 800 Mhz) dual-channel DDR3 configurations 2 GB, 3 GB, 4 GB, and 8 GB JMicron JMB380...
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Ports and Connectors Network adapter HDMI DisplayPort Audio 3-in-1 Media Card Reader SIM card IEEE 1394 Communications Network adapter Wireless CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS one RJ45 connector three 4-pin USB 2.0-compliant connectors, including one USB PowerShare connector one 19-pin connector one 20-pin connector two audio output/headphone connectors and one audio input/microphone connector one combo connector...
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CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS Video Video controller Integrated Discrete Video memory Integrated Discrete External display support Audio Controller Speaker Internal speaker amplifier Internal microphone support Volume controls Intel QS57 Nvidia NV11P-GS1 dynamic based on system memory capacity 1 GB HDMI and DisplayPort Intel HDA single 8-ohms speakers in both the left and right speaker assembly...
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Hard-Drive Storage Interface Number of hard drives Hard drive Type Cards Supported Media cards Video cards CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS SATA 2.5 inch SATA hard drive standard portable and solid-state hard-drives • Secure Digital (SD) memory card • MultiMedia Card (MMC) •...
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CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS Display Type Maximum resolution Dimensions Height Width Diagonal Refresh rate Operating angle Pixel pitch Controls 11.6 inch HD TrueLife, WLED 1366 x 768 144 mm (5.67 inches) 256.12 mm (10.08 inches) 293.83 mm (11.57 inches) 60 Hz 0°...
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Keyboard (Backlit) Number of keys Backlight color Touch Pad X/Y position resolution (graphics table mode) Size Height Width Camera Camera resolution Video resolution Diagonal viewing angle CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS 82 (Korea, U.S, and Canada); 83 (Europe); 86 (Japan) RGB; colors can be changed by invoking the AlienFX application in the Alienware Command Center.
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CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS Battery 8-cell “smart” lithium ion (63 Whr) Height Width Depth Weight Voltage Operating time Life span (approximate) Temperature range Operating Storage Coin-cell battery 11.2 mm (0.44 inches) 173 mm (6.81 inches) 109.4 mm (4.31 inches) 0.43 kg (0.94 lb) 14.8 V battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions and can be significantly reduced under...
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AC Adapter Type Input voltage Input current (maximum) Input frequency Output current Output power Rated output voltage Temperature range Operating Storage Connector types DC connector AC connector CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS 90 W 100-240 VAC 1.5 A 50-60 Hz 4.62 A (continuous) 90 W 19.5 VDC 0°...
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CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS Computer Environment Temperature range Operating Storage Relative humidity (maximum) Operating Storage Maximum vibration (using a random vibration spectrum that simulates user environment) Operating Storage Maximum shock (Measured with hard drive in operating status and a 2-ms half-sine pulse for operating.
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Computer Environment Altitude (maximum) Operating Storage Airborne contaminant level CHAPTER 7: SPECIFICATIONS –15.2 to 3048 m (–50 to 10,000 ft) –15.2 to 10,668 m (–50 to 35,000 ft) G2 or lower as defined by ISA-S71.04-1985...
APPENDIX GENERAL AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Computer Setup • Read all instructions marked on the product and in the documentation before operating your computer. • Retain all safety and operating instructions. • Never use this product near water or a heat source. •...
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Computer Use • Route the power cable and all cables away from where people might walk or trip over them. Do not allow anything to rest on the power cable. • Do not spill anything on or into your computer. •...
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APPENDIX • If you have to remove peripheral cards for any reason, place them on the portion of the computer’ s case that was removed. Do not touch the edge connectors at the bottom of the card that connect to the system board. General Safety Precautions •...
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.
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APPENDIX Websites You can learn about Alienware products and services on the following websites: www.dell.com • • www.dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only) • www.dell.com/jp (Japan only) • www.euro.dell.com (Europe only) • www.dell.com/la (Latin American and Caribbean countries) • www.dell.ca (Canada only) You can access Alienware Support through the following websites: •...
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The following information is provided in the device(s) described in this document in accordance with the requirements of the Official Mexican Standard (NOM): Importer: Dell México S.A. de C.V. Paseo de la Reforma 2620 - Flat 11° Col. Lomas Altas 11950 México, D.F.