Alienware Area-51 R6 Service Manual
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Alienware Area-51 R6 Service Manual

Threadripper edition r6
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Alienware Area-51 Threadripper
Edition R6
Service Manual
Computer Model: Alienware Area-51 R6
Regulatory Model: D03X
Regulatory Type: D03X003

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Table of Contents
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Summary of Contents for Alienware Area-51 R6

  • Page 1 Alienware Area-51 Threadripper Edition R6 Service Manual Computer Model: Alienware Area-51 R6 Regulatory Model: D03X Regulatory Type: D03X003...
  • Page 2 Notes, cautions, and warnings NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your product. CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Before working inside your computer......13 ................13 Before you begin ................13 Safety instructions ................14 Recommended tools ..................15 Screw list After working inside your computer......19 Technical overview............20 ............20 Inside view of your computer ................. 21 Right view ..................
  • Page 4 Replacing the side panels..........34 ..................34 Procedure Removing the battery..........35 ...................35 Prerequisites ..................35 Procedure Replacing the battery..........37 ..................37 Procedure ................37 Post-requisites Removing the battery case..........38 ...................38 Prerequisites ..................38 Procedure Replacing the battery case..........40 ..................40 Procedure ................
  • Page 5 Replacing the U.2 fan..........47 ..................47 Procedure ................47 Post-requisites Removing the right AlienFX side-panel connector... 48 ...................48 Prerequisites ..................48 Procedure Replacing the right AlienFX side-panel connector..51 ..................51 Procedure ................51 Post-requisites Removing the left AlienFX side-panel connector..52 ..................
  • Page 6 Replacing the drive-bay heat sensor cable....62 ..................62 Procedure ................62 Post-requisites Removing the memory modules........63 ...................63 Prerequisites ..................63 Procedure Replacing the memory modules........65 ..................65 Procedure ................65 Post-requisites Removing the graphics card........66 .................. 66 Prerequisites ..................66 Procedure Replacing the graphics card........69 ..................69 Procedure ................69...
  • Page 7 Replacing the wireless card.........77 ..................77 Procedure ................77 Post-requisites Removing the coin-cell battery........78 ...................78 Prerequisites ..................78 Procedure Replacing the coin-cell battery........80 ..................80 Procedure ................80 Post-requisites Removing the top fan...........81 ................... 81 Prerequisites ..................81 Procedure Replacing the top fan..........83 ..................
  • Page 8 Replacing the solid-state drive........90 ..................90 Procedure ................91 Post-requisites Removing the PCI fan..........92 .................. 92 Prerequisites ..................92 Procedure Replacing the PCI fan..........94 ..................94 Procedure ................94 Post-requisites Removing the front-bezel heat sensor cable....95 .................. 95 Prerequisites ..................95 Procedure Replacing the front-bezel heat-sensor cable.....
  • Page 9 Replacing the processor..........106 ..................106 Procedure ................107 Post-requisites Removing the power-supply unit......109 .................109 Prerequisites ..................109 Procedure Replacing the power-supply unit......113 ..................113 Procedure ................114 Post-requisites Removing the system board........115 ................. 115 Prerequisites ..................115 Procedure Replacing the system board........
  • Page 10 Replacing the front bezel.......... 130 ..................130 Procedure ................130 Post-requisites Removing the rear bezel..........131 ..................131 Prerequisites ..................131 Procedure Replacing the rear bezel..........136 ..................136 Procedure ................136 Post-requisites Removing the base panel...........137 ................. 137 Prerequisites ..................138 Procedure Replacing the base panel...........142 ..................
  • Page 11 Replacing the bottom tron-lighting cable....149 ..................149 Procedure ................149 Post-requisites Removing the antenna cables........150 ................150 Prerequisites ..................150 Procedure Replacing the antenna cables........155 ..................155 Procedure ................155 Post-requisites Downloading drivers..........157 ............157 Downloading the audio driver ...........158 Downloading the graphics driver ............158...
  • Page 12 Flashing the BIOS ...............175 Flashing BIOS (USB key) .....176 Enhanced Pre-Boot System Assessment (ePSA) diagnostics ..........176 Running the ePSA diagnostics ................... 177 Diagnostics .................177 Wi-Fi power cycle Getting help and contacting Alienware....178 ................178 Self-help resources ..............178 Contacting Alienware...

  • Page 13: Before Working Inside Your Computer

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

  • Page 14: Recommended Tools

    CAUTION: To avoid damaging the computer, ensure that the work surface is flat and clean. CAUTION: To avoid damaging the components and cards, handle them by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts. CAUTION: You should only perform troubleshooting and repairs as authorized or directed by the Dell technical assistance team.

  • Page 15: Screw List

    Screw list The following table provides the list of screws that are used for securing different components. Table 1. Screw list Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image Stability foot Computer #6-32x6 Security-cable Computer #6-32x5.2 slot latch Battery-case Battery case M2x5.7 door Battery case...
  • Page 16 Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image Left AlienFX Chassis #6-32x6 side-panel connector assembly Left AlienFX Bracket #6-32x6 side-panel connector I/O board Chassis #6-32x6 Wireless card Chassis M2x3 Top fan Chassis #6-32x6 Logo board Chassis #6-32x6 Logo board Bracket #6-32x6 Solid-state System board...
  • Page 17 Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image Processor Chassis M5x10 liquid-cooling assembly Power-supply Chassis #6-32x6 unit System-board Chassis #6-32x6 Rear-handle Chassis #6-32x6.5 Front-handle Chassis #6-32x6.5 Bottom-handle Chassis #6-32x6.5 Front bezel Chassis #6-32x6 Rear bezel Chassis #6-32x6 Rear bezel Chassis M3x5 Base panel Chassis...
  • Page 18 Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image Base panel Chassis #6-32x6 Antennas Chassis #6-32x6...

  • Page 19: After Working Inside Your Computer

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

  • Page 20: Technical Overview

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

  • Page 21: Right View

    Right view Figure 1. Right view I/O board (IO BRD) U.2 2.5–inch drive bracket (HDD3/HDD4) drive-bay heat-sensor U.2 2.5–inch drive bracket (HDD1/HDD2) AlienFX side-panel connector rear I/O accessibility lighting batteries 3.5-inch drive bracket (HDD1) 3.5-inch drive bracket (HDD2) 3.5-inch drive bracket (HDD3)

  • Page 22: Left View

    Left view Figure 2. Left view processor liquid-cooling assembly graphics card system board power-supply unit AlienFX side-panel connector PCI fan processor liquid-cooling assembly memory modules pump top fan...

  • Page 23: System-Board Components

    System-board components processor-power connector (CPU processor liquid-cooling PWR1) assembly pump-fan connector (PUMP_FAN1)
  • Page 24 processor liquid cooling-assembly audio connector (FP_AUDIO1) fan (LCM_FAN1) PCI-Express slot (SLOT1) CMOS reset jumper (CMOS_CLR) coin-cell battery socket (BAT1) PCI-Express slot (SLOT3) PCI-Express slot (SLOT4) WLAN connector (M2_WLAN1) PCI-Express slot (SLOT5) PCI-Express slot (SLOT6) solid-state drive slot (M2_SSD1) PCI-Express slot (SLOT7) low pin count debug header LED Power Switch (PANEL1) (LPC1)

  • Page 25: I/O-Board Components

    I/O-board components NOTE: The location of the connectors may vary based on the selections you made at the time of purchase. Figure 3. I/O-board components Fan connector (U2_FAN1) Fan connector (U2_FAN2) USB connector (USB1) front I/O connector (USB3_FIO1) front I/O connector (USB3_FIO2) 6 audio connector (AUDIOIO1) rear I/O accessibility lighting rear I/O accessibility lighting...
  • Page 26 front I/O control connector (FIO_PWR1)

  • Page 27: Lifting The Computer

    Lifting the computer Procedure With both hands, hold the handle located on top of the computer. Lift the computer.

  • Page 28: Removing The Stability Foot

    Removing the stability foot WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 29 Lift the stability foot off the computer.
  • Page 30 Tilt the computer back to the upright position.

  • Page 31: Replacing The Stability Foot

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

  • Page 32: Removing The Side Panels

    Removing the side panels WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 33 Pull and lift the right side-panel away from the chassis. Repeat the procedure from step 2 to step 3 on the left side-panel.

  • Page 34: Replacing The Side Panels

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

  • Page 35: Removing The Battery

    Removing the battery WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 36 Remove the batteries from the battery case.

  • Page 37: Replacing The Battery

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

  • Page 38: Removing The Battery Case

    Removing the battery case WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 39 Lift the battery case off the chassis.

  • Page 40: Replacing The Battery Case

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

  • Page 41: Removing The Hard Drive

    Removing the hard drive WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 42 Using the tab, slide and remove the hard-drive assembly (HDD1) from the chassis. Remove the four screws (#6-32x3.6) that secure the hard-drive bracket to the hard drive.
  • Page 43 Slide and remove the hard drive from the hard-drive bracket. NOTE: Repeat step 2 to step 6 to remove any other hard drives (HDD2 and HDD3) installed in your computer.

  • Page 44: Replacing The Hard Drive

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

  • Page 45: Removing The U.2 Fan

    Removing the U.2 fan WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 46 Remove the U.2 fan from the hard-drive assembly bracket.

  • Page 47: Replacing The U.2 Fan

    Replacing the U.2 fan WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.

  • Page 48: Removing The Right Alienfx Side-Panel Connector

    Removing the right AlienFX side- panel connector WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 49 Slide and remove the right AlienFX side-panel connector assembly from the chassis. Remove the two screws (#6-32x6) that secure the right AlienFX side-panel connector to the bracket.
  • Page 50 Remove the cable routing through the slot on the bracket and lift the right AlienFX side-panel connector off the bracket.

  • Page 51: Replacing The Right Alienfx Side-Panel Connector

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

  • Page 52: Removing The Left Alienfx Side-Panel Connector

    Removing the left AlienFX side- panel connector WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 53 Remove the cable from the securing clip and route the cable through the slot on the chassis. Turn the chassis over. Remove the AlienFX side-panel cable through the routing guides on the chassis. Remove the screw (#6-32x6) that secures the left AlienFX side-panel connector assembly to the chassis.
  • Page 54 Remove the left AlienFX side-panel connector assembly from the chassis. Remove the two screws (#6-32x6) that secure the AlienFX side-panel connector to the bracket. Remove the cable routing through the slot on the bracket and lift the left AlienFX side-panel connector off the bracket.

  • Page 55: Replacing The Left Alienfx Side-Panel Connector

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

  • Page 56: Removing The I/O Board

    Removing the I/O board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 57 Slide and lift the I/O board out of the chassis.

  • Page 58: Replacing The I/O Board

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

  • Page 59: Removing The Drive-Bay Heat Sensor Cable

    Removing the drive-bay heat sensor cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 60 Disconnect the drive-bay heat-sensor cable from the system board. Turn the chassis over. Remove the cable through the slot on the chassis. Locate the drive-bay heat- sensor. See “right view”.
  • Page 61 Push the release tab and pry the drive-bay heat-sensor cable off the chassis.

  • Page 62: Replacing The Drive-Bay Heat Sensor Cable

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

  • Page 63: Removing The Memory Modules

    Removing the memory modules WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 64 Locate the memory modules on the system board. Push the securing clip away from the memory module. Remove the memory module from the memory-module slot. NOTE: Repeat step 2 to step 4 to remove any other memory modules installed in your computer.

  • Page 65: Replacing The Memory Modules

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

  • Page 66: Removing The Graphics Card

    Removing the graphics card WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 67 Pull the clamp up out from the bracket. NOTE: The location of the power supply connector (VGA1, VGA2, and VGA3) varies depending on the video card installed. Press and hold the securing tab on the graphics-card connector, grasp the card by its top corner.
  • Page 68 Lift the graphics card from the graphics-card slot.

  • Page 69: Replacing The Graphics Card

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

  • Page 70: Removing Multiple Graphics Cards

    Removing multiple graphics cards WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 71 Lift the graphics bridge that connects the graphics cards. Disconnect the power cables from the graphics card. Rotate and open the PCIE door. Press and hold the securing tab on the clamp.
  • Page 72 Pull the clamp away from the bracket. NOTE: The location of the power supply connector (VGA1, VGA2, and VGA3) varies depending on the video card installed. Press and hold the securing tab on the graphics-card connector, grasp the card by its top corner.
  • Page 73 Lift the graphics card from the graphics-card slot. Repeat steps 2 to 7 to remove graphics card on the PCI-Express card connector (SLOT4) and PCI-Express x16 card connector (SLOT7).

  • Page 74: Replacing Multiple Graphics Cards

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

  • Page 75: Removing The Wireless Card

    Removing the wireless card WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 76 Locate the wireless card on the system board. Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the wireless card to the chassis. Slide and remove the wireless card from the wireless-card slot. Disconnect the antenna cables from the wireless card.

  • Page 77: Replacing The Wireless Card

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

  • Page 78: Removing The Coin-Cell Battery

    Removing the coin-cell battery WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 79 Locate the coin-cell battery on the system board. Push the coin-cell battery-release lever. Remove the coin-cell battery.

  • Page 80: Replacing The Coin-Cell Battery

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

  • Page 81: Removing The Top Fan

    Removing the top fan WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 82 Pull the release tab away from the chassis, move the top fan towards the right side and slide the top fan out of the chassis.

  • Page 83: Replacing The Top Fan

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

  • Page 84: Removing The Logo Board

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

  • Page 85: Procedure

    Procedure NOTE: Note the routing of all cables as you remove them so that you can route them correctly after you replace the logo board. Disconnect all the cables from the logo board. Remove the screw (#6-32x6) that secures the logo board to the chassis.
  • Page 86 Slide the logo board out of the chassis. Remove the six screws (#6-32x6) that secure the logo board to the bracket. Remove the logo board from the bracket.

  • Page 87: Replacing The Logo Board

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

  • Page 88: Removing The Solid-State Drive

    Removing the solid-state drive WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 89 Locate the solid-state drive on the system board. Remove the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the solid-state drive to the system board. Slide and remove the solid-state drive from the solid-state drive slot on the system board.

  • Page 90: Replacing The Solid-State Drive

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

  • Page 91: Post-Requisites

    Align the screw hole on the solid-state drive with the screw hole on the system board. Replace the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the solid-state drive to the system board. Post-requisites Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Replacing the side panels”.

  • Page 92: Removing The Pci Fan

    Removing the PCI fan WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 93 Slide and remove the PCI fan from the tabs securing it to the chassis.

  • Page 94: Replacing The Pci Fan

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

  • Page 95: Removing The Front-Bezel Heat Sensor Cable

    Removing the front-bezel heat sensor cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 96 Slide and remove the PCI fan holder from the chassis. Push the release tab and pry the front-bezel heat-sensor cable off the chassis.

  • Page 97: Replacing The Front-Bezel Heat-Sensor Cable

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

  • Page 98: Removing The Processor Liquid-Cooling Assembly

    Removing the processor liquid- cooling assembly WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 99 Remove the four screws (M5x10) that secure the processor liquid-cooling assembly fan to the chassis.
  • Page 100 Slide and lift the processor liquid-cooling assembly fan and processor liquid- cooling assembly pump out of the chassis.

  • Page 101: Replacing The Processor Liquid-Cooling Assembly

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

  • Page 102: Post-Requisites

    In sequential order as indicated on the processor cooling-assembly, tighten the captive screws that secure the processor liquid-cooling assembly to the system board. Connect the processor liquid-cooling assembly fan cable to the system board. Connect the processor liquid-cooling assembly pump-fan cable to the system board.

  • Page 103: Removing The Processor

    Removing the processor WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 104 Slide the processor cover off the processor slot. CAUTION: When removing the processor, do not touch any of the pins inside the socket or allow any objects to fall on the pins in the socket. Remove the processor from the tabs on the processor cover.
  • Page 105 Lift the processor off the processor cover.

  • Page 106: Replacing The Processor

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

  • Page 107: Post-Requisites

    In the order as indicated on the processor shield (1,2,3), tighten the captive screws that secure the processor shield to the system board. Post-requisites Replace the processor liquid-cooling assembly. Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Replacing the side panels”.
  • Page 108 Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 109: Removing The Power-Supply Unit

    Removing the power-supply unit WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 110 Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the power-supply unit to the back of the chassis.
  • Page 111 Lift the power-supply unit cover away from the chassis. Slide the power-supply unit out through the back of the chassis and remove it from the computer.
  • Page 112 Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the metal bracket to the power-supply unit. Remove the metal bracket from the power-supply unit.

  • Page 113: Replacing The Power-Supply Unit

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

  • Page 114: Post-Requisites

    Press and hold the securing tab on the chassis and slide the power-supply unit into the chassis until it snaps into position. Align the notch on the power-supply unit cover with the tab on the chassis. Replace the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the power-supply unit to the bezel.

  • Page 115: Removing The System Board

    Removing the system board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 116 Disconnect all the cables connected to the system-board assembly. Remove the nine screws (#6-32x6) that secure the system-board assembly to the chassis. Lift the system-board assembly out of the chassis. Remove the processor.

  • Page 117: Replacing The System Board

    Replacing the system board WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 118 Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Replacing the side panels”. Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 119: Removing The Handle Bars

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

  • Page 120: Procedure

    Procedure Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the rear handle-bar to the left side of the chassis. Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the rear handle-bar to the right side of the chassis.
  • Page 121 Press the rear-handle bar to release the securing tab and remove the rear- handle bar.
  • Page 122 Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the front handle-bar to the left side of the chassis. Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the front handle-bar to the right side of the chassis.
  • Page 123 Press the front-handle bar to release the securing tab and remove the front- handle bar.
  • Page 124 Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the bottom handle-bar to the left side of the chassis. Remove the seven screws (#6-32x6.5) that secure the bottom handle-bar to the right side of the chassis.
  • Page 125 Press the bottom-handle bar to release the securing tab and remove the bottom-handle bar.

  • Page 126: Replacing The Handle Bars

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

  • Page 127: Removing The Front Bezel

    Removing the front bezel WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 128 Pull the connector downwards and then disconnect the bottom tron light- cables from the front bezel. Remove the two screws (6-32x5.2) from inside, securing the front bezel to the left side of the chassis. Remove the screw (6-32x5.2) from inside, securing the front bezel to the right side of the chassis.
  • Page 129 Pull the front bezel off the chassis.

  • Page 130: Replacing The Front Bezel

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

  • Page 131: Removing The Rear Bezel

    Removing the rear bezel WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 132 Remove the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable through the routing guides on the chassis. Remove the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable through the slot on the chassis.
  • Page 133 Open the securing clip which secures the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable to the chassis. Remove the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable from the routing guides on the chassis. Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the power-supply unit cover to the back of the chassis.
  • Page 134 Lift the power-supply unit cover away from the chassis. Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the rear bezel to the top and bottom of the chassis. 10 Remove the screw (M3x5) from inside, that secure the rear bezel to the chassis.
  • Page 135 13 Remove the rear bezel from the chassis and remove the rear I/O accessibility lighting cable from the slot on the chassis.

  • Page 136: Replacing The Rear Bezel

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

  • Page 137: Removing The Base Panel

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

  • Page 138: Procedure

    Procedure CAUTION: If the front bezel and rear bezel have been removed, place the chassis carefully on a flat surface to avoid damaging the I/O ports. Remove the four screws (#6-32x6) that secure the base panel to the chassis. Remove the three screws (#6-32x6) from inside, securing the base panel to the left side of the chassis.
  • Page 139 Release the tabs from inside the chassis on the left side, securing the base panel to the left side of the chassis. Figure 4. Removing the base panel tabs (2) screws (3) chassis Remove the two screws (#6-32x6) from inside, securing the base panel to the right side of the chassis.
  • Page 140 Release the tabs from inside the chassis on the right side, securing the base panel to the right side of the chassis. Figure 5. Removing the base panel screws (2) tabs (2) chassis...
  • Page 141 Remove the base panel from the chassis. Figure 6. Removing the base panel base panel chassis...

  • Page 142: Replacing The Base Panel

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

  • Page 143: Removing The Top Tron-Lighting Cable

    Removing the top tron-lighting cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 144 Remove the top tron-lighting cables from the routing-guides on the chassis. Peel the tape that secures the top tron-lighting cables to the chassis and lift the top tron-lighting cables.

  • Page 145: Replacing The Top Tron-Lighting Cable

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

  • Page 146: Removing The Bottom Tron-Lighting Cable

    Removing the bottom tron-lighting cable WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 147 Remove the bottom tron-lighting cables from the routing guide on the chassis.
  • Page 148 Remove the bottom tron-lighting cables from the slot on the chassis.

  • Page 149: Replacing The Bottom Tron-Lighting Cable

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

  • Page 150: Removing The Antenna Cables

    Removing the antenna cables WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 151 Slide the antenna cables through the slot on the chassis. Turn the chassis over. Remove the antenna cables from the routing guide on the chassis.
  • Page 152 Slide the antenna cable through the slot on the chassis. Turn the chassis over.
  • Page 153 Remove the antenna cables from the routing guide on the chassis and slide the antenna cable through the slot on the chassis. 10 Peel the tape that secures the antenna cables to the chassis. 11 Remove the six screws (#6-32x6) that secure the antenna cables to the chassis.
  • Page 154 12 Pull the antenna cables from the slot on the chassis and remove.

  • Page 155: Replacing The Antenna Cables

    Replacing the antenna cables WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer.
  • Page 156 Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 157: Downloading Drivers

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

  • Page 158: Downloading The Graphics Driver

    Downloading the graphics driver Turn on your computer. Go to www.dell.com/support. Enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit. NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the autodetect feature or manually browse for your computer model. Click Drivers &...

  • Page 159: Downloading The Chipset Driver

    Go to www.dell.com/support. Enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit. NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the autodetect feature or manually browse for your computer model. Click Drivers & downloads. Click the Detect Drivers button. Review and agree to the Terms and Conditions to use SupportAssist, then click Continue.

  • Page 160: Downloading The Network Driver

    Click Drivers & downloads. Click the Detect Drivers button. Review and agree to the Terms and Conditions to use SupportAssist, then click Continue. If necessary, your computer starts to download and install SupportAssist. NOTE: Review on-screen instructions for browser-specific instructions. Click View Drivers for My System.
  • Page 161 Review and agree to the Terms and Conditions to use SupportAssist, then click Continue. If necessary, your computer starts to download and install SupportAssist. NOTE: Review on-screen instructions for browser-specific instructions. Click View Drivers for My System. Click Download and Install to download and install all driver updates detected for your computer.

  • Page 162: Bios Setup Program

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

  • Page 163: Bios Overview

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

  • Page 164: System Setup Options

    Build Date Displays the BIOS release date. Product Information Product Name Displays the product name. Default: Alienware Area-51 R6. Set Service Tag Allows you to enter the service tag of your computer. Asset Tag Displays the asset tag of your computer.
  • Page 165 Main Memory Technology Displays the type of memory technology used. Memory Speed Displays the memory speed. CPU Information Processor Type Displays the processor type Processor ID Displays the processor identification code. CPU Speed Displays the CPU speed. Cache L2 Displays the processor L2 cache size. Cache L3 Displays the processor L3 cache size.
  • Page 166 Main System Time Displays the current time in hh:mm:ss format. Table 4. System setup options—Advanced menu Advanced Advanced BIOS Features BIOS Recovery via Hard Drive Allows you to store the recovery image file on the primary hard drive. Default: Enabled. BIOS Auto-Recovery Enable the user to recover from certain corrupted BIOS conditions from a...
  • Page 167 Advanced Default: AHCI PCIE GEN3 Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE GEN3. Default: Enabled. Power Management Setup AC Recovery Sets what action the computer takes when power is restored. Default: Last State. Deep Sleep Control Allows you to define the controls when Deep Sleep is enabled.
  • Page 168 Security password controls access to the system setup utility. System Password Allows you to set the system password. The system password controls access to the computer at boot. HDD Password Status Displays if the HDD password is clear or set. Default: Not set.
  • Page 169 Table 7. System setup options—Boot menu Boot Boot Configuration Wait for ‘F1’ If Error Allows you to enable or disable the F1 screen. Default: All, but KB. Secure Boot Control Allows you to enable or disable the secure boot control. Default: Disabled.

  • Page 170: System And Setup Password

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

  • Page 171: Deleting Or Changing An Existing System And Or Setup Password

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

  • Page 172: Clearing Cmos Settings

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

  • Page 173: Clearing Forgotten Passwords

    Remove the jumper plug from pins 1 and 2 and replace it on pins 2 and 3. Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Replacing the side panels”. 10 Replace the stability foot. Clearing Forgotten Passwords WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer.
  • Page 174 Wait for approximately five seconds to clear the password setting. Remove the jumper plug from pins 1 and 2 and replace it on pins 2 and 3. Replace the left and right side-panels. See “Replacing the side panels”. 10 Replace the stability foot.

  • Page 175: Troubleshooting

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

  • Page 176: Enhanced Pre-Boot System Assessment (Epsa) Diagnostics

    Boot to the USB drive from the One Time Boot Menu. Type the BIOS setup program filename and press Enter. The BIOS Update Utility appears. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the BIOS update. Enhanced Pre-Boot System Assessment (ePSA) diagnostics CAUTION: Use the ePSA diagnostics to test only your computer.

  • Page 177: Diagnostics

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

  • Page 178: Getting Help And Contacting Alienware

    Getting help and contacting Alienware Self-help resources You can get information and help on Alienware products and services using these online self-help resources: Table 10. Alienware products and online self-help resources Information about Alienware products www.alienware.com and services Dell Help & Support app...
  • Page 179 NOTE: Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be available in your country. NOTE: If you do not have an active internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.

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