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Alienware 16X Aurora Owner's Manual
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Alienware 16X Aurora Owner's Manual

Alienware 16X Aurora Owner's Manual

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Alienware 16X Aurora
AC16251
Owner's Manual
Regulatory Model: P139F
Regulatory Type: P139F002
May 2025
Rev. A00

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Summary of Contents for Alienware 16X Aurora

  • Page 1 Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251 Owner's Manual Regulatory Model: P139F Regulatory Type: P139F002 May 2025 Rev. A00...
  • 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

    Bottom....................................11 Locate the Service Tag or Express Service Code label of your computer................ 11 Battery-charge status light..............................12 Chapter 2: Set up your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251..............13 Chapter 3: Specifications of Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251............14 Dimensions and weight...............................14 Processor..................................... 14 Chipset....................................
  • Page 4 After working inside your computer..........................32 BitLocker.....................................32 Recommended tools................................32 Screw list..................................... 32 Major components of Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251....................34 Chapter 6: Removing and installing Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs).........36 Base cover...................................36 Removing the base cover............................. 36 Installing the base cover............................... 39 Battery....................................
  • Page 5 Installing the Type-C bracket............................65 Battery bracket...................................66 Removing the battery bracket............................. 66 Installing the battery bracket............................67 Touchpad.................................... 68 Removing the touchpad............................... 68 Installing the touchpad..............................69 Keyboard-controller board..............................70 Removing the keyboard-backlight controller (ELC) board..................70 Installing the keyboard-backlight controller (ELC) board..................71 System board..................................
  • Page 6 LCD Built-in Self-Test (LCD-BIST)..........................128 System-diagnostic lights..............................128 Recovering the operating system............................ 129 Real-Time Clock (RTC Reset)............................129 Backup media and recovery options..........................130 Network power cycle............................... 130 Drain flea power (perform hard reset)..........................130 Chapter 11: Getting help and contacting Alienware................131 Contents...

  • Page 7: Chapter 1: Views Of Alienware 16X Aurora Ac16251

    Views of Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251 Right Figure 1. Right view 1. Air vents Air vents provide ventilation for your computer. Clogged air vents can cause overheating and can affect the performance of your computer and potentially cause hardware issues. Keep the air vents clear of obstructions and clean them regularly to prevent the build-up of dust and dirt.

  • Page 8: Front

    Emit infrared light, which enables the infrared camera to sense and track motion. 4. Camera Enables you to video chat, capture photos, and record videos. 5. Camera-status light Turns on when the camera is in use. Views of Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251...

  • Page 9: Top

    Press to right-click. 3. Left-click area Press to left-click. 4. Touchpad Move your finger on the touchpad to move the mouse pointer. Tap with a finger to left-click and tap with two fingers to right-click. Views of Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251...

  • Page 10: Back

    Supports DisplayPort 2.1 and also enables you to connect an external display using a display adapter. Depending on the types of ports available on selected Alienware monitors, a display adapter may not be required. NOTE: A USB Type-C to DisplayPort adapter (sold separately) may be required to connect a DisplayPort device depending on the display you are connecting to.

  • Page 11: Bottom

    4. MyAlienware QR code MyAlienware is your hub for content personalized to your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251, including videos, articles, manuals, and easy access to support. Locate the Service Tag or Express Service Code label of...

  • Page 12: Battery-Charge Status Light

    Figure 7. Service Tag/Express Service Code location Battery-charge status light The following table lists the battery-charge status light of your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. Table 1. Battery charge and status light behavior  Power source LED behavior System power state Battery charge level...

  • Page 13: Chapter 2: Set Up Your Alienware 16X Aurora Ac16251

    Set up your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251 About this task NOTE: The images in this document may differ from your computer depending on the configuration you ordered. Steps Connect the power adapter and press the power button. Figure 8. Connect the power adapter and press the power button...

  • Page 14: Chapter 3: Specifications Of Alienware 16X Aurora Ac16251

    2.66 kg (5.86 lb) - (minimum) NOTE: The weight of your computer depends on the configuration that is ordered. Processor The following table lists the details of the processors that are supported in your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. Table 3. Processor  Description Option one...

  • Page 15: Chipset

    36 MB Integrated graphics Intel Graphics Intel Graphics Intel Graphics Chipset The following table lists the details of the chipset that is supported in your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. Table 4. Chipset  Description Option one Option two Option three Processors...

  • Page 16: External Ports And Slots

    ● 64 GB, 2 x 32 GB, DDR5, 5600 MT/s, non-ECC, dual- channel, non-XMP External ports and slots The following table lists the external ports and slots of your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. Table 6. External ports and slots  Description...

  • Page 17: Ethernet

    Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit Ethernet controller Transfer rate 1000 Mbps for Ethernet controller Wireless module The following table lists the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) module that is supported on your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. Table 9. Wireless module specifications  Description...

  • Page 18: Storage

    Your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251 supports two M.2 2230 solid state drive slots. NOTE: The primary drive of your Alienware 16 Aurora AC16251 varies with the storage configuration. The primary drive of your computer is the M.2 2230 drive where the operating system is installed.

  • Page 19: Keyboard Shortcuts

    NOTE: You can also define the primary behavior of the function keys (F1–F12) by changing Function Key Behavior in the BIOS setup program. Table 13. Function key primary behavior  Keys Description Decrease display brightness. Increase display brightness. Disable or enable Performance Boost. Specifications of Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251...
  • Page 20 Copilot key launches Windows search. For more information about Copilot in Windows, search in the Knowledge Base Resource at the Dell Support site. Activates the Windows Start screen when the Windows key is pressed. Specifications of Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251...

  • Page 21: Camera

    Camera The following table lists the camera specifications of your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. Table 16. Camera specifications  Description Values Number of cameras Camera type FHD RGB + IR camera Camera location Front Camera sensor type CMOS sensor technology Camera resolution: Still image 2.07 megapixels...

  • Page 22: Power Adapter

    Power adapter The following table lists the power adapter specifications of your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. Table 18. Power-adapter specifications  Description Option one Option two Type 180 W AC adapter, E4 280 W AC adapter, E5 Connector dimensions: External diameter 7.4 mm...

  • Page 23: Battery

    Configuration > ExpressCharge, Configuration > ExpressCharge, then press Enter. then press Enter. Battery The following table lists the battery specifications of your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. Table 20. Battery specifications  Description Values Battery type 6-cell Lithium-Ion (96 Wh) ExpressCharge Boost NOTE: For computers shipped to the EU region, the battery supports only ExpressCharge.

  • Page 24: Power Requirements (For Computers Shipped With 6-Cell, 96 Wh Battery)

    100 Watts in order to achieve the maximum charging speed. This computer supports USB Power Delivery (PD) fast charging. Display The following table lists the display specifications of your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. Table 21. Display specifications  Description...

  • Page 25: Gpu-Integrated

    Processor Intel Graphics Shared system memory Intel Core Ultra HX series GPU—Discrete The following table lists the specifications of the discrete Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) supported by your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. Table 23. GPU—Discrete  Controller Memory size Memory type...

  • Page 26: External Display Support

    External display support The following table lists the external display support for your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. NOTE: To enable G-SYNC, connect the external display to the Thunderbolt 4 port or HDMI port on the computer. NOTE: When connected through to the HDMI port and depending on the type of display that is connected, you may encounter a reduced frame rate.

  • Page 27: Dell Support Policy

    ● Take an extended break for 20 minutes every two hours. ● Look away from your display, and gaze at a distant object at 20 ft (609.60 cm) away for at least 20 seconds during each break. Specifications of Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251...

  • Page 28: Chapter 4: Alienware Command Center

    Alienware Command Center Alienware Command Center (AWCC) provides a single interface to customize and enhance the gaming experience. The AWCC dashboard displays most recently played or added games, and provides game-specific information, themes, profiles, and access to computer settings. You can quickly access settings such as game-specific profiles and themes, lighting, macros, and audio that are critical to the gaming experience.

  • Page 29: Chapter 5: Working Inside Your Computer

    Working inside your computer Safety instructions Use the following safety guidelines to protect your computer from potential damage and to ensure your personal safety. Unless otherwise noted, each procedure in this document assumes that you have read the safety information that shipped with your computer.

  • Page 30: Safety Precautions

    8. Enter the Service Mode. Service Mode Service Mode is used to cut off power without disconnecting the battery cable from the system board before conducting repairs in the computer. CAUTION: If you are unable to turn on the computer to put it into Service Mode, proceed to disconnect the battery cable.

  • Page 31: Esd Field Service Kit

    ● Use a wired ESD wrist strap that is properly grounded. Wireless anti-static straps do not provide adequate protection. Touching the chassis before handling parts does not ensure adequate ESD protection on parts with increased sensitivity to ESD damage. ● Handle all static-sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use anti-static floor pads and workbench pads. ●...

  • Page 32: Transporting Sensitive Components

    Transporting sensitive components When transporting ESD sensitive components such as replacement parts or parts to be returned to Dell, it is critical to place these parts in anti-static bags for safe transport. After working inside your computer About this task CAUTION: Leaving stray or loose screws inside your computer may severely damage your computer.
  • Page 33 Table 26. Screw list  Component Screw type Quantity Screw image Base cover M2x8 (captive screws) M2x6 Battery M2x4 Solid state drive M1.6x2.9 Wireless-card bracket M2x3 Power-adapter port M2x3 Type-C bracket M2x4 Battery bracket M2x2.5 Touchpad M2x2 Touchpad support bracket M2x2 Power button and power-button M2x2 board...

  • Page 34: Major Components Of Alienware 16X Aurora Ac16251

    Major components of Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251 The following image shows the major components of Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. 1. Base cover 2. Solid state drive (SSD) thermal shield 3. Solid state drive (SSD) 4. Memory module 5. I/O board...
  • Page 35 6. System board 7. Battery 8. Palm rest and keyboard assembly 9. Display assembly 10. Touchpad 11. Touchpad support plate 12. Battery bracket 13. Speakers 14. Center bar 15. Rear cap 16. USB Type-C bracket 17. Power button 18. Power-button board 19.

  • Page 36: Chapter 6: Removing And Installing Customer Replaceable Units (Crus)

    Removing and installing Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs) The replaceable components in this chapter are Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs). CAUTION: Customers can replace only the Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs) following the safety precautions and replacement procedures. NOTE: The images in this document may differ from your computer depending on the configuration you ordered. Base cover Removing the base cover Prerequisites...
  • Page 37 Figure 10. Removing the base cover Removing and installing Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs)
  • Page 38 Figure 11. Removing the base cover Figure 12. Removing the base cover Removing and installing Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs)

  • Page 39: Installing The Base Cover

    Steps 1. Remove the eight screws (M2x6) that secure the base cover to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2. Loosen the two captive screws (M2x8) that secure the base cover to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 3. Using a plastic scribe, pry loose the base cover near the locations of the captive screws and continue to work towards the sides to open the base cover.
  • Page 40 Figure 14. Connecting the battery cable Removing and installing Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs)
  • Page 41 Figure 15. Installing the base cover Removing and installing Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs)

  • Page 42: Battery

    Figure 16. Installing the base cover NOTE: If you have disconnected the battery cable, ensure to connect the battery cable. To connect the battery cable, follow step 1 in the procedure. Steps 1. Connect the battery cable to the battery-cable connector (BATT1) on the system board. 2.

  • Page 43: Removing The Battery

    ● Do not crush, drop, mutilate, or penetrate the battery with foreign objects. ● Do not expose the battery to high temperatures, or disassemble battery packs and cells. ● Do not apply pressure to the surface of the battery. ● Do not bend the battery. ●...

  • Page 44: Installing The Battery

    Steps 1. Peel off the tape to access the battery cable connector (BATT1). 2. Disconnect the battery cable from the battery cable connector (BATT1) on the system board, if it has not been disconnected earlier. 3. Remove the seven screws (M2x4) that secure the battery to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 4.

  • Page 45: Battery Cable

    Next steps 1. Install the base cover. 2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer. Battery cable Removing the battery cable CAUTION: The information in this removal section is intended for authorized service technicians only. Prerequisites 1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

  • Page 46: Installing The Battery Cable

    Installing the battery cable CAUTION: The information in this installation section is intended for authorized service technicians only. Prerequisites If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure. About this task The following images indicate the location of the battery cable and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure. Figure 20.

  • Page 47: Memory Module

    Memory module Removing the memory module Prerequisites 1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer. 2. Remove the base cover. About this task The following images indicate the location of the memory module and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure. Figure 21.

  • Page 48: Solid State Drive (Ssd)

    About this task The following images indicate the location of the memory module and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure. Figure 22. Installing the memory module Steps 1. Lift the Mylar to access the memory-module slot. 2. Align the notch on the memory module with the tab on the memory-module slot (DIMM1 or DIMM2). CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges.

  • Page 49: Installing The M.2 2230 Ssd In The Ssd1 Slot

    About this task The following images indicate the location of the M.2 2230 SSD in the SSD1 slot and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure. Figure 23. Removing the M.2 2230 SSD in the SSD1 slot Steps 1. Remove the screw (M1.6x2.9) that secures the SSD thermal shield to the system board. 2.

  • Page 50: Removing The M.2 2230 Ssd In The Ssd2 Slot

    Figure 24. Installing the M.2 2230 SSD in the SSD1 slot Steps 1. Align the notch on the SSD with the tab on the SSD slot (SSD1) on the system board. 2. Slide the SSD into its slot (SSD1) on the system board. 3.

  • Page 51: Installing The M.2 2230 Ssd In The Ssd2 Slot

    Figure 25. Removing the M.2 2230 SSD in the SSD2 slot Steps 1. Remove the screw (M1.6x2.9) that secures the SSD thermal shield to the system board. 2. Remove the screws (M1.6x2.9) that secures the SSD thermal shield to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 3.

  • Page 52: Removing The M.2 2280 Ssd In The Ssd1 Slot

    Figure 26. Installing the M.2 2230 SSD in the SSD2 slot Steps 1. Align the notch on the SSD with the tab on the SSD slot (SSD2) on the system board. 2. Slide the SSD into its slot (SSD2) on the system board. 3.

  • Page 53: Installing The M.2 2280 Ssd In The Ssd1 Slot

    Figure 27. Removing the M.2 2280 SSD in the SSD1 slot Steps 1. Remove the screw (M1.6x2.9) that secures the SSD thermal shield to the system board. 2. Remove the screw (M1.6x2.9) that secures the SSD thermal shield to the I/O board. 3.

  • Page 54: Removing The M.2 2280 Ssd In The Ssd2 Slot

    Figure 28. Installing the M.2 2280 SSD in the SSD1 slot Steps 1. Align the notch on the SSD with the tab on the solid state drive (SSD) slot (SSD1) or on the system board. 2. Slide the SSD into its slot (SSD1) on the system board. 3.

  • Page 55: Installing The M.2 2280 Ssd In The Ssd2 Slot

    Figure 29. Removing the M.2 2280 SSD in the SSD2 slot Steps 1. Remove the screw (M1.6x2.9) that secures the SSD thermal shield to the system board. 2. Remove the screw (M1.6x2.9) that secures the SSD thermal shield to the SSD screw mount. 3.

  • Page 56: Moving The Ssd Screw Mount

    Figure 30. Installing the M.2 2280 SSD in the SSD2 slot Steps 1. Align the notch on the SSD with the tab on the solid state drive (SSD) slot (SSD2) on the system board. 2. Slide the SSD into its slot (SSD2) on the system board. 3.

  • Page 57: Wireless Card

    Figure 31. Procedure to move the screw mount for installation of M2.2280 Figure 32. Procedure to move the screw mount for installation of M2.2230 3. To install a M.2 2230 solid state drive in SSD slot one and slot two, see installing the M.2 2230 solid state drive (SSD).

  • Page 58: Installing The Wireless Card

    Figure 33. Removing the wireless card Steps 1. Peel off the Mylar to access the wireless card. 2. Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the wireless card and palm rest and keyboard assembly. 3. Lift the wireless-card bracket off the wireless card. 4.
  • Page 59 Figure 34. Installing the wireless card Steps 1. Connect the antenna cables to the wireless card. NOTE: The following table provides the antenna-cable color scheme for the wireless card that is supported on your computer. Table 27. Antenna-cable color scheme  Connectors on the Antenna-cable color Label marking...

  • Page 60: Speakers

    Next steps 1. Install the base cover. 2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer. Speakers Removing the speakers Prerequisites 1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer. 2. Remove the base cover. About this task The following images indicate the location of the speakers and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.
  • Page 61 Figure 36. Installing the speakers Steps 1. Using the alignment posts, place the left and right speakers into their slots on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. NOTE: Ensure that the alignment posts are threaded completely through the rubber grommets on the speakers. 2.

  • Page 62: Chapter 7: Removing And Installing Field Replaceable Units (Frus)

    Removing and installing Field Replaceable Units (FRUs) The replaceable components in this chapter are Field Replaceable Units (FRUs). CAUTION: The information in this section is intended for authorized service technicians only. CAUTION: To avoid any potential damage to the component or loss of data, ensure that an authorized service technician replaces the Field Replaceable Units (FRUs).

  • Page 63: Installing The Power-Adapter Port

    Figure 37. Removing the power-adapter port Steps 1. Remove the two screws (M2x3) that secure the power-adapter port bracket to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2. Lift the power-adapter port bracket off the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 3. Disconnect the power-adapter port cable from the connector (DCIN) on the system board. 4.

  • Page 64: Type-C Bracket

    Figure 38. Installing the power-adapter port Steps 1. Connect the power-adapter port cable to the connector (DCIN) on the system board. 2. Place the power-adapter port into the slot on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 3. Align the screw holes on the power-adapter port bracket with the screw holes on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 4.

  • Page 65: Installing The Type-C Bracket

    Figure 39. Removing the Type-C bracket Steps 1. Remove the three screws (M2x4) that secure the Type-C bracket to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2. Lift the Type-C bracket from the system board. Installing the Type-C bracket CAUTION: The information in this installation section is intended for authorized service technicians only. Prerequisites If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.

  • Page 66: Battery Bracket

    Figure 40. Installing the Type-C bracket Steps 1. Using the alignment post, place the Type-C bracket on the system board. 2. Align the screw holes on the Type-C bracket with the screw holes on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 3.

  • Page 67: Installing The Battery Bracket

    Figure 41. Removing the battery bracket Steps 1. Remove the two screws (M2x2.5) that secure the battery bracket to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2. Remove the battery brackets away from the palm rest and keyboard assembly. Installing the battery bracket CAUTION: The information in this installation section is intended for authorized service technicians only.

  • Page 68: Touchpad

    Figure 42. Installing the battery bracket Steps 1. Align the screw holes on the battery bracket with the screw holes on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2. Replace the two screws (M2x2.5) that secure the bracket to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. Next steps 1.

  • Page 69: Installing The Touchpad

    Figure 43. Removing the touchpad Steps 1. Open the latch and disconnect the touchpad cable from the connector (TPAD1) on the system board. 2. Remove the four screws (M2x2) that secure the touchpad support plate to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 3.

  • Page 70: Keyboard-Controller Board

    Figure 44. Installing the touchpad Steps 1. At an angle slide the touchpad into the slot on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2. Turn the computer over and open the display to ensure that the touchpad is equally aligned on all sides. 3.

  • Page 71: Installing The Keyboard-Backlight Controller (Elc) Board

    About this task The following images indicate the location of the keyboard-backlight controller (ELC) board and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure. Figure 45. Removing the keyboard-backlight controller (ELC) board Steps 1. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard-backlight cable (KBBL) from the connector (FPC1) on the keyboard-backlight controller (ELC) board.

  • Page 72: System Board

    Figure 46. Installing the keyboard-backlight controller (ELC) board Steps 1. Align the screw holes on the keyboard-backlight controller (ELC) board with the screw holes on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2. Replace the two screws (M2x2) that secure the ELC board to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 3.
  • Page 73 About this task The following image indicates the connectors on your system board. Figure 47. System-board connectors 1. Display-cable connector (LCD1) 2. Camera cable connector (CAM1) 3. Power-adapter port cable connector (DCIN) 4. Left fan-cable connector (FAN2) 5. Wireless-card slot (WLAN1) 6.
  • Page 74 Figure 48. Removing the system board Steps 1. Open the latch and disconnect the display cable from the connector (LCD1) on the system board. 2. Open the latch and disconnect the camera cable from the connector (CAM1) on the system board. 3.
  • Page 75 Figure 49. Removing the system board 12. Lift the system-board assembly from the palm rest and keyboard assembly. Removing and installing Field Replaceable Units (FRUs)
  • Page 76 Figure 50. Removing the system-board assembly 13. Turn the system-board assembly over. 14. Disconnect the right-fan cable from the connector (FAN1) on the system board. 15. Disconnect the left-fan cable from the connector (FAN2) on the system board. 16. In reverse sequential order (7>6>5>4>3>2>1), loosen the seven captive screws that secure the fan and heat-sink assembly to the system board.

  • Page 77: Installing The System Board

    Figure 51. Removing the I/O board 19. Lift the I/O board from the system board. 20.After performing all the above steps, you are left with the system board. Installing the system board CAUTION: The information in this installation section is intended for authorized service technicians only. Prerequisites If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process.
  • Page 78 About this task Figure 52. System-board connectors 1. Display-cable connector (LCD1) 2. Camera cable connector (CAM1) 3. Power-adapter port cable connector (DCIN) 4. Left fan-cable connector (FAN2) 5. Wireless-card slot (WLAN1) 6. Solid state drive slot (SSD1) 7. Keyboard-controller cable connector (KB1) 8.
  • Page 79 Figure 53. Installing the I/O board 2. Replace the two screws (M2x2) that secure the I/O board to the system board. 3. Align the screw holes on the fan and heat-sink assembly with the screw holes on the bottom of the system board. Removing and installing Field Replaceable Units (FRUs)
  • Page 80 Figure 54. Installing the fan and heat-sink assembly 4. In sequential order (1>2>3>4>5>6>7), tighten the seven captive screws that secure the fan and heat-sink assembly to the system board. 5. Turn the system-board assembly over. 6. Using the alignment posts, place the system-board assembly on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. Removing and installing Field Replaceable Units (FRUs)
  • Page 81 Figure 55. Installing the system board 7. Replace the three screws (M2x4) that secure the left fan to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 8. Replace the three screws (M2x4) that secure the right fan to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 9.
  • Page 82 Figure 56. Installing the system board 10. Connect the left-fan cable to the connector (FAN2) on the system board. 11. Connect the right- fan cable to the connector (FAN1) on the system board. 12. Route the antenna cables through the routing guides on the fan and heat-sink assembly. 13.

  • Page 83: Power Button And Power-Button Board

    Power button and power-button board Removing the power button and power-button board CAUTION: The information in this removal section is intended for authorized service technicians only. Prerequisites 1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer. 2. Remove the base cover.

  • Page 84: Installing The Power Button And Power-Button Board

    Figure 57. Removing the power button and power-button board Steps 1. Remove the two screws (M2x2) that secure the power-button board to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2. Open the latch and disconnect the power-button cable from the connector (PWR1) on the system board. 3.
  • Page 85 About this task The following images indicate the location of the power button and power-button board and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure. Figure 58. Installing the power button and power-button board Figure 59. Installing the power button and power-button board Steps 1.

  • Page 86: Fan And Heat-Sink Assembly

    NOTE: The system board can be installed as an assembly with the fan and heat-sink assembly to preserve the thermal bond between the system board and fan and heat-sink assembly. 2. Install the power-adapter port. 3. Install the wireless card. 4.

  • Page 87: Installing The Fan And Heat-Sink Assembly

    Figure 60. Removing the fan and heat-sink assembly Steps 1. Disconnect the right-fan cable from the connector (FAN1) on the system board. 2. Disconnect the left-fan cable from the connector (FAN2) on the system board. 3. Turn the system-board assembly over. 4.
  • Page 88 About this task The following images indicate the location of the fan and heat-sink assembly and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure. Figure 61. Installing the fan and heat-sink assembly Steps 1. Align the screw holes on the fan and heat-sink assembly with the screw holes on the bottom of the system board. 2.

  • Page 89: I/O Board

    NOTE: The system board can be installed as an assembly with the fan and heat-sink assembly to preserve the thermal bond between the system board and fan and heat-sink assembly. 2. Install the Type-C bracket. 3. Install the power-adapter port. 4.

  • Page 90: Installing The I/O Board

    Figure 62. Removing the I/O board Steps 1. Lift the system-board assembly from the palm rest and keyboard assembly and turn it over. 2. Remove the two screws (M2x2) that secure the I/O board to the system board. 3. Lift the I/O board from the system board. Installing the I/O board CAUTION: The information in this installation section is intended for authorized service technicians only.

  • Page 91: Rear Cap

    Figure 63. Installing the I/O board Steps 1. Align the screw holes on the I/O board with the screw holes on the system board. 2. Replace the two screws (M2x2) that secure the I/O board to the system board. 3. Lift the system-board assembly and turn it over. Next steps 1.

  • Page 92: Installing The Rear Cap

    About this task The following images indicate the location of the rear cap and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure. Figure 64. Removing the rear cap Steps 1. Remove the five screws (M2x3.5) that secure the rear cap to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. NOTE: Do not remove the two silver-colored screws that secure the display assembly to the palm rest and keyboard assembly.

  • Page 93: Center Bar

    Figure 66. Installing the rear cap Steps 1. Align the screw holes on the rear cap with the screw holes on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2. Replace the five screws (M2x3.5) that secure the rear cap to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. Next steps 1.

  • Page 94: Installing The Center Bar

    Figure 67. Removing the center bar Steps 1. Remove the two screws (M2x3.5) that secure the center bar to the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2. Insert a scribe into the service hole that is located near the power-adapter port and gently pry the center bar away from the palm rest and keyboard assembly.
  • Page 95 About this task The following images indicate the location of the center bar and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure. Figure 68. Installing the center bar Steps 1. Snap the center bar into position on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. NOTE: Ensure the screw holes on the center bar are aligned with the screw holes on the palm rest and keyboard assembly.

  • Page 96: Display Assembly

    Display assembly Removing the display assembly CAUTION: The information in this removal section is intended for authorized service technicians only. Prerequisites 1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer. 2. Remove the base cover. 3. Remove the wireless card.
  • Page 97 Figure 70. Removing the display assembly Steps 1. Open the latch and disconnect the display cable from the connector (LCD1) on the system board. 2. Open the latch and disconnect the camera cable from the connector (CAM1) on the system board. 3.

  • Page 98: Installing The Display Assembly

    Figure 71. Display assembly Installing the display assembly CAUTION: The information in this installation section is intended for authorized service technicians only. Prerequisites If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation process. About this task The following images indicate the location of the display assembly and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.
  • Page 99 Figure 72. Installing the display assembly Removing and installing Field Replaceable Units (FRUs)
  • Page 100 Figure 73. Installing the display assembly Steps 1. Place the palm rest and keyboard assembly at the edge of a flat table. 2. Open the hinges of the display assembly to a 90-degree angle. 3. Align the screw holes on the display hinges with the screw holes on the palm rest and keyboard assembly. 4.

  • Page 101: Palm Rest And Keyboard Assembly

    Palm rest and keyboard assembly Removing the palm rest and keyboard assembly CAUTION: The information in this removal section is intended for authorized service technicians only. Prerequisites 1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer. 2. Remove the base cover.

  • Page 102: Installing The Palm Rest And Keyboard Assembly

    Steps After performing the pre-requisites, you are left with the palm rest and keyboard assembly. NOTE: Ensure that the two solid state drive mounts are removed from the old palm rest and keyboard assembly before installing the new palm rest and keyboard assembly. These solid state drive mounts are to be installed onto the new palm rest and keyboard assembly.
  • Page 103 Figure 76. Installing the SSD screw mounts Figure 77. Installing the palm rest and keyboard assembly Steps 1. Install the solid state drive mounts from the old palm rest and keyboard assembly onto the new palm rest and keyboard assembly. 2.
  • Page 104 NOTE: Install the solid state drive mounts on the slots from the old palm rest and keyboard assembly onto the new palm rest and keyboard assembly. Next steps 1. Install the display assembly. 2. Install the touchpad. 3. Install the power button and power-button board.

  • Page 105: Chapter 8: Software

    Software This chapter details the supported operating systems along with instructions on how to install the drivers. Operating system Your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251 supports the following operating systems: ● Windows 11 Home (64-bit) ● Windows 11 Professional (64-bit) Drivers and downloads When troubleshooting, downloading, or installing drivers, it is recommended that you read the Dell Knowledge Base article Drivers and Downloads FAQs 000123347.

  • Page 106: Chapter 9: Bios Setup

    BIOS Setup CAUTION: Certain changes can make your computer work incorrectly. Before you change the settings in BIOS Setup, it is recommended that you note down the original settings for future reference. NOTE: Depending on the computer and the installed devices, the options that are listed in this section may or may not be displayed.

  • Page 107: View Advanced Setup Options

    NOTE: Depending on your computer and its installed devices, the items that are listed in this section may or may not be displayed. Table 29. BIOS Setup options—Overview menu  Overview Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251 BIOS Version Displays the BIOS version number. Service Tag Displays the Service Tag of the computer.
  • Page 108 Table 29. BIOS Setup options—Overview menu (continued) Overview Signed Firmware Update Displays whether the Signed Firmware Update is enabled on your computer. By default, the Signed Firmware Update option is enabled. NOTE: To view this option, enable Service options as described in View Service options.
  • Page 109 Table 29. BIOS Setup options—Overview menu (continued) Overview Memory Technology Displays the technology that is used for the memory. NOTE: To view this option, enable Advanced Setup mode as described in View Advanced Setup options. Memory Channel Mode Displays single or dual channel mode. NOTE: To view this option, enable Service options as described in View Service options.
  • Page 110 Table 30. BIOS Setup options—Boot Configuration menu (continued) Boot Configuration Enable Microsoft UEFI CA When disabled, the UEFI CA is removed from the BIOS UEFI Secure Boot database. NOTE: When disabled, the Microsoft UEFI CA could render your computer unable to boot, computer graphics may not function, some devices may not function properly, and the computer could become unrecoverable.
  • Page 111 Table 31. BIOS Setup options—Integrated Devices menu (continued) Integrated Devices By default, the Enable External USB Ports option is enabled. NOTE: To view this option, enable Advanced Setup mode as described in View Advanced Setup options. Enable USB Boot Support Enables booting from USB mass storage devices that are connected to external USB ports.
  • Page 112 Table 33. BIOS Setup options—Display menu (continued) Display NOTE: To view the Display menu options, enable Advanced Setup mode as described in View Advanced Setup options. By default, the Full Screen Logo option is disabled. Hybrid Graphics/Advanced Optimus Enable Hybrid Graphics/Advanced Optimus Enables or disables the ability of both integrated and discrete graphics controller working together for optimized capability and battery life.
  • Page 113 Table 35. BIOS Setup options—Power menu (continued) Power Enable Advanced Battery Charge Enables Advanced Battery Charge Configuration from the beginning of the day Configuration to a specified work period. When enabled, Advanced Battery Charged maximizes battery health while still supporting heavy use during the work day. By default, the Enable Advanced Battery Charge Configuration option is disabled.
  • Page 114 Table 36. BIOS Setup options—Security menu (continued) Security Intel Platform Trust Technology On Enables or disables the Intel Platform Trust Technology On option. By default, the Platform Trust Technology On option is enabled. For additional security, Dell Technologies recommends keeping the Platform Trust Technology On option enabled.
  • Page 115 Table 36. BIOS Setup options—Security menu (continued) Security For additional security, Dell Technologies recommends keeping the Absolute option enabled. NOTE: When the Absolute features are activated, the Absolute integration cannot be disabled from the BIOS setup screen. UEFI Boot Path Security NOTE: To view this option, enable Advanced Setup mode as described in View Advanced Setup...
  • Page 116 Table 37. BIOS Setup options—Passwords menu (continued) Passwords M.2 PCIe SSD-1 The M.2 PCIe SSD password can be set to prevent unauthorized access of the data stored on the solid state drive. The computer prompts for the solid state drive password during boot in order to unlock the drive. A password-secured solid state drive stays locked even when removed from the computer or placed into another computer.
  • Page 117 Table 37. BIOS Setup options—Passwords menu (continued) Passwords By default, the Allow Non-Admin Password Changes option is enabled. For additional security, Dell Technologies recommends keeping the Allow Non- Admin Password Changes option disabled. Admin Setup Lockout NOTE: To view this option, enable Advanced Setup mode as described in View Advanced Setup options.
  • Page 118 Table 38. BIOS Setup options—Update, Recovery menu (continued) Update, Recovery By default, the BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive option is enabled. NOTE: BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive is not available for self-encrypting drives (SED). NOTE: BIOS recovery is designed to fix the main BIOS block and cannot work if the Boot Block is damaged.
  • Page 119 Table 39. BIOS Setup options—System Management menu (continued) System Management Diagnostics NOTE: To view this option, enable Advanced Setup mode as described in View Advanced Setup options. OS Agent Requests Enable or disable the scheduling of onboard diagnostics. By default, the OS Agent Requests option is enabled. Power-on-Self-Test Automatic Recovery NOTE: To view this option, enable Advanced Setup mode as described in View...
  • Page 120 Table 41. BIOS Setup options—Pre-boot Behavior menu (continued) Preboot Behavior NOTE: Errors deemed critical to the operation of the computer hardware stop the functioning of the computer. USB-C Warnings Enable Dock Warning Messages Enables the warning messages during boot when the USB-C adapters with less power capacity are detected.
  • Page 121 Table 42. BIOS Setup options—Virtualization Support menu (continued) Virtualization Support NOTE: To view the Virtualization Support menu options, enable Service options as described in View Service options. By default, the Enable Intel VT for Direct I/O option is enabled. DMA Protection NOTE: To view this option, enable Advanced Setup mode as described in View Advanced Setup...
  • Page 122 Table 43. BIOS Setup options—Performance menu (continued) Performance NOTE: To view the Performance menu options, enable Advanced Setup mode as described in View Advanced Setup options. C-State Control NOTE: To view this option, enable Service options as described in View Service options.

  • Page 123: Updating The Bios

    Updating the BIOS Updating the BIOS in Windows Steps 1. Go to Dell Support Site. 2. Go to Identify your product or search support. In the box, enter the product identifier, model, service request or describe what you are looking for, and then click Search. NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the SupportAssist to automatically identify your computer.

  • Page 124: System And Setup Password

    To confirm if the BIOS Flash Update is listed as a boot option, you can boot your computer to the One Time Boot Menu. If the option is listed, then the BIOS can be updated using this method. To update your BIOS from the One-Time boot menu, you need the following: ●...

  • Page 125: Deleting Or Changing An Existing System Password Or Setup Password

    ● Password must contain at least one special character: "( ! " # $ % & ' * + , - . / : ; < = > ? @ [ \ ] ^ _ ` { | } )" ●...

  • Page 126: Chapter 10: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Handling swollen rechargeable Li-ion batteries Like most laptops, Dell laptops use Lithium-ion batteries. One type of Lithium-ion battery is the rechargeable Li-ion battery. Rechargeable Li-ion batteries have increased in popularity in recent years and have become a standard in the electronics industry due to customer preferences for a slim form factor (especially with newer ultra-thin laptops) and long battery life.

  • Page 127: Running The Supportassist Pre-Boot System Performance Check

    For more information, see the knowledge base article 000181163. Running the SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance Check Steps 1. Turn on your computer. 2. As the computer boots, press the F12 key. 3. On the boot menu screen, select Diagnostics. The diagnostic quick test begins. NOTE: For more information about running the SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance Check on a specific device, see Dell Support Site.

  • Page 128: Logic Built-In Self-Test (L-Bist)

    LCD. System-diagnostic lights This section lists the system-diagnostic lights of your Alienware 16X Aurora AC16251. NOTE: The battery-status light shows the SERVICE LED system-diagnostic light codes. The following table shows different Service LED blinking patterns and associated problems. The diagnostic light codes consist of a two-digit number, and the digits are separated by a comma.

  • Page 129: Recovering The Operating System

    Table 47. Diagnostic light codes  Diagnostic light codes (Amber, White) Problem description TPM detection failure Hinge cable overcurrent protection (OCP) is triggered. The hinge cable may be damaged. Generic catch-all for ungraceful EC code flow errors Chipset “Catastrophic Error” signal has tripped CPU configuration or CPU failure No memory or Random-Access Memory (RAM) detected Memory or Random-Access Memory (RAM) failure...

  • Page 130: Backup Media And Recovery Options

    Backup media and recovery options It is recommended to create a recovery drive to troubleshoot and fix problems that may occur with Windows. Dell provides multiple options for recovering the Windows operating system on your Dell computer. For more information, see Dell Windows Backup Media and Recovery Options.

  • Page 131: Chapter 11: 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 48. Alienware products and online self-help resources  Self-help resources Resource location Information about Alienware products and services...

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