Alienware Aurora R12 User Manual

Displayed below is the user manual for Aurora R12 by Alienware which is a product in the PCs/Workstations category. This manual has pages.

Related Manuals

Alienware Aurora R12 Manual

Alienware Aurora R12

Service Manual

Regulatory Model: D23M

Regulatory Type: D23M003

August 2021

Rev. A03

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.

trademarks may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Contents

Chapter 1: Working inside your computer..............................................................................................6

Safety instructions.................................................................................................................................................................6

Before working inside your computer.................................................................................................................................6

Before you begin ........................................................................................................................................................... 6

Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection............................................................................................................................7

ESD field service kit .............................................................................................................................................................7

Transporting sensitive components......................................................................................................................................8

After working inside your computer....................................................................................................................................8

Chapter 2: Removing and installing components..................................................................................10

Inside view of your computer.............................................................................................................................................10

System-board components................................................................................................................................................. 11

Recommended tools............................................................................................................................................................11

Screw list..............................................................................................................................................................................12

Left-side cover....................................................................................................................................................................13

Removing the left-side cover........................................................................................................................................13

Installing the left-side cover..........................................................................................................................................13

Top cover.............................................................................................................................................................................14

Removing the top cover................................................................................................................................................14

Installing the top cover..................................................................................................................................................15

Right-side cover..................................................................................................................................................................16

Removing the right-side cover..................................................................................................................................... 16

Installing the right-side cover....................................................................................................................................... 17

Right tron-light board........................................................................................................................................................ 19

Removing the right tron-light board............................................................................................................................19

Installing the right tron-light board.............................................................................................................................20

2.5-inch hard drive............................................................................................................................................................ 22

Removing the 2.5-inch hard drive...............................................................................................................................22

Installing the 2.5-inch hard drive.................................................................................................................................23

3.5-inch hard drive............................................................................................................................................................ 25

Removing the 3.5-inch hard drive...............................................................................................................................25

Installing the 3.5-inch hard drive.................................................................................................................................26

2.5-inch hard-drive cage...................................................................................................................................................28

Removing the 2.5-inch hard-drive cage..................................................................................................................... 28

Installing the 2.5-inch hard-drive cage....................................................................................................................... 28

3.5-inch hard-drive cage...................................................................................................................................................29

Removing the 3.5-inch hard-drive cage..................................................................................................................... 29

Installing the 3.5-inch hard-drive cage....................................................................................................................... 30

550 W power-supply unit..................................................................................................................................................31

Removing the 550 W power-supply unit.................................................................................................................... 31

Installing the 550 W power-supply unit......................................................................................................................33

1000 W Power-supply unit...............................................................................................................................................35

Removing the 1000 W power-supply unit..................................................................................................................35

Installing the 1000 W power-supply unit....................................................................................................................37

Coin-cell battery................................................................................................................................................................ 38

Removing the coin-cell battery....................................................................................................................................38

Installing the coin-cell battery..................................................................................................................................... 40

Memory modules.................................................................................................................................................................41

Removing the memory modules....................................................................................................................................41

Installing the memory modules..................................................................................................................................... 43

Single-graphics card..........................................................................................................................................................45

Removing the single-graphics card............................................................................................................................. 45

Installing the single-graphics card............................................................................................................................... 47

Solid-state drive.................................................................................................................................................................50

Removing the solid-state drive.................................................................................................................................... 50

Installing the solid-state drive......................................................................................................................................50

Front bezel ......................................................................................................................................................................... 51

Removing the front bezel............................................................................................................................................. 51

Installing the front bezel...............................................................................................................................................54

Top bezel............................................................................................................................................................................ 59

Removing the top bezel............................................................................................................................................... 59

Installing the top bezel.................................................................................................................................................60

Bottom cover.......................................................................................................................................................................61

Removing the bottom cover......................................................................................................................................... 61

Installing the bottom cover...........................................................................................................................................62

Processor fan and heat-sink assembly............................................................................................................................... 63

Removing the processor fan and heat-sink assembly..................................................................................................63

Installing the processor fan and heat-sink assembly................................................................................................... 64

Processor liquid-cooling assembly.................................................................................................................................... 66

Removing the processor liquid-cooling assembly.......................................................................................................66

Installing the processor liquid-cooling assembly.........................................................................................................69

Processor..............................................................................................................................................................................71

Removing the processor................................................................................................................................................ 71

Installing the processor..................................................................................................................................................71

Wireless card.......................................................................................................................................................................72

Removing the wireless card.......................................................................................................................................... 72

Installing the wireless card............................................................................................................................................ 73

Antennas............................................................................................................................................................................. 75

Removing the antennas.................................................................................................................................................75

Installing the antennas.................................................................................................................................................. 75

Front I/O-panel................................................................................................................................................................. 76

Removing the front I/O panel......................................................................................................................................76

Installing the front I/O-panel.......................................................................................................................................77

Front-chassis fan.................................................................................................................................................................78

Removing the front-chassis fan.................................................................................................................................... 78

Installing the front-chassis fan...................................................................................................................................... 79

Top-chassis fan................................................................................................................................................................... 80

Removing the top-chassis fan...................................................................................................................................... 80

Installing the top-chassis fan.........................................................................................................................................82

Front AlienFX LED boards.................................................................................................................................................84

Removing the front AlienFX LED board..................................................................................................................... 84

Installing the front AlienFX LED board....................................................................................................................... 84

Power-button board.......................................................................................................................................................... 85

Removing the power-button board.............................................................................................................................85

Installing the power-button board...............................................................................................................................86

System board...................................................................................................................................................................... 87

Removing the system board..........................................................................................................................................87

Installing the system board........................................................................................................................................... 89

Entering the Service Tag in the BIOS setup program..................................................................................................91

Chapter 3: Device drivers...................................................................................................................... 93

Operating system............................................................................................................................................................... 93

Downloading the audio driver...........................................................................................................................................93

Downloading the graphics driver......................................................................................................................................93

Downloading the USB driver............................................................................................................................................ 94

Downloading the WiFi driver............................................................................................................................................95

Downloading the media-card reader driver.....................................................................................................................95

Downloading the chipset driver........................................................................................................................................96

Downloading the network driver......................................................................................................................................96

Chapter 4: System setup........................................................................................................................98

System setup.......................................................................................................................................................................98

Entering BIOS setup program........................................................................................................................................... 98

Navigation keys..................................................................................................................................................................98

Boot Sequence................................................................................................................................................................... 98

System and setup password...............................................................................................................................................99

Assigning a system setup password..............................................................................................................................99

Deleting or changing an existing system setup password.......................................................................................... 99

Clearing CMOS settings.............................................................................................................................................100

Clearing forgotten password...................................................................................................................................... 101

Updating the BIOS........................................................................................................................................................... 101

Updating the BIOS in Windows................................................................................................................................. 101

Updating the BIOS using the USB drive in Windows...............................................................................................102

Updating the BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu.......................................................................................... 102

System setup options........................................................................................................................................................103

Chapter 5: Troubleshooting.................................................................................................................106

SupportAssist diagnostics................................................................................................................................................ 106

System diagnostic lights...................................................................................................................................................106

Built-in self-test (BIST).....................................................................................................................................................107

M-BIST......................................................................................................................................................................... 107

Recovering the operating system.................................................................................................................................... 107

WiFi power cycle..............................................................................................................................................................107

Flea power release............................................................................................................................................................108

Chapter 6: Getting help and contacting Alienware........................................................................... 109

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 included in this document assumes that you have read the safety information that shipped with your

computer.

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that is shipped with your computer. For

more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

WARNING: Disconnect your computer from all power sources before opening the computer cover or panels. After you

finish working inside the computer, replace all covers, panels, and screws before connecting your computer to an electrical

outlet.

CAUTION: To avoid damaging the computer, ensure that the work surface is flat, dry, and clean.

CAUTION: To avoid damaging the components and cards, handle them by their edges, and avoid touching the pins and the

contacts.

CAUTION: You should only perform troubleshooting and repairs as authorized or directed by the Dell technical assistance

team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. See the safety instructions

that is shipped with the product or at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

CAUTION: Before touching anything inside your computer, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface, such

as the metal at the back of the computer. While you work, periodically touch an unpainted metal surface to dissipate static

electricity which could harm internal components.

CAUTION: When you disconnect a cable, pull it by its connector or its pull tab, not the cable itself. Some cables have

connectors with locking tabs or thumbscrews that you must disengage before disconnecting the cable. When disconnecting

cables, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending the connector pins. When connecting cables, ensure that the ports and

the connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.

CAUTION: Press and eject any installed card from the media-card reader.

CAUTION: Exercise caution when handling Lithium-ion batteries in laptops. Swollen batteries should not be used and

should be replaced and disposed properly.

NOTE: The color of your computer and certain components may appear differently than shown in this document.

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

Steps

1. Save and close all open files and exit all open applications.

2. Shut down your computer. Click Start > Power > Shut down.

NOTE: If you are using a different operating system, see the documentation of your operating system for shut-down

instructions.

3. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets.

4. Disconnect all attached network devices and peripherals, such as keyboard, mouse, and monitor from your computer.

5. Remove any media card and optical disc from your computer, if applicable.

6. After the computer is unplugged, press and hold the power button for 5 seconds to ground the system board.

Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection

ESD is a major concern when you handle electronic components, especially sensitive components such as expansion cards, processors,

memory DIMMs, and system boards. Very slight charges can damage circuits in ways that may not be obvious, such as intermittent

problems or a shortened product life span. As the industry pushes for lower power requirements and increased density, ESD

protection is an increasing concern.

Due to the increased density of semiconductors used in recent Dell products, the sensitivity to static damage is now higher than in

previous Dell products. For this reason, some previously approved methods of handling parts are no longer applicable.

Two recognized types of ESD damage are catastrophic and intermittent failures.

●Catastrophic – Catastrophic failures represent approximately 20 percent of ESD-related failures. The damage causes an

immediate and complete loss of device functionality. An example of catastrophic failure is a memory DIMM that has received a

static shock and immediately generates a "No POST/No Video" symptom with a beep code emitted for missing or nonfunctional

memory.

●Intermittent – Intermittent failures represent approximately 80 percent of ESD-related failures. The high rate of intermittent

failures means that most of the time when damage occurs, it is not immediately recognizable. The DIMM receives a static shock,

but the tracing is merely weakened and does not immediately produce outward symptoms related to the damage. The weakened

trace may take weeks or months to melt, and in the meantime may cause degradation of memory integrity, intermittent memory

errors, etc.

The more difficult type of damage to recognize and troubleshoot is the intermittent (also called latent or "walking wounded") failure.

Perform the following steps to prevent ESD damage:

●Use a wired ESD wrist strap that is properly grounded. The use of wireless anti-static straps is no longer allowed; they 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.

●When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component from the anti-static

packing material until you are ready to install the component. Before unwrapping the anti-static packaging, ensure that you

discharge static electricity from your body.

●Before transporting a static-sensitive component, place it in an anti-static container or packaging.

ESD field service kit

The unmonitored Field Service kit is the most commonly used service kit. Each Field Service kit includes three main components:

anti-static mat, wrist strap, and bonding wire.

Components of an ESD field service kit

The components of an ESD field service kit are:

●Anti-Static Mat – The anti-static mat is dissipative and parts can be placed on it during service procedures. When using an

anti-static mat, your wrist strap should be snug and the bonding wire should be connected to the mat and to any bare metal on

the system being worked on. Once deployed properly, service parts can be removed from the ESD bag and placed directly on

the mat. ESD-sensitive items are safe in your hand, on the ESD mat, in the system, or inside a bag.

●Wrist Strap and Bonding Wire – The wrist strap and bonding wire can be either directly connected between your wrist and

bare metal on the hardware if the ESD mat is not required, or connected to the anti-static mat to protect hardware that is

temporarily placed on the mat. The physical connection of the wrist strap and bonding wire between your skin, the ESD mat,

and the hardware is known as bonding. Use only Field Service kits with a wrist strap, mat, and bonding wire. Never use wireless

wrist straps. Always be aware that the internal wires of a wrist strap are prone to damage from normal wear and tear, and must be

checked regularly with a wrist strap tester in order to avoid accidental ESD hardware damage. It is recommended to test the wrist

strap and bonding wire at least once per week.

●ESD Wrist Strap Tester – The wires inside of an ESD strap are prone to damage over time. When using an unmonitored kit, it is a

best practice to regularly test the strap prior to each service call, and at a minimum, test once per week. A wrist strap tester is the

best method for doing this test. If you do not have your own wrist strap tester, check with your regional office to find out if they

have one. To perform the test, plug the wrist-strap's bonding-wire into the tester while it is strapped to your wrist and push the

button to test. A green LED is lit if the test is successful; a red LED is lit and an alarm sounds if the test fails.

●Insulator Elements – It is critical to keep ESD sensitive devices, such as plastic heat sink casings, away from internal parts that are

insulators and often highly charged.

●Working Environment – Before deploying the ESD Field Service kit, assess the situation at the customer location. For example,

deploying the kit for a server environment is different than for a desktop or portable environment. Servers are typically installed

in a rack within a data center; desktops or portables are typically placed on office desks or cubicles. Always look for a large open

flat work area that is free of clutter and large enough to deploy the ESD kit with additional space to accommodate the type of

system that is being repaired. The workspace should also be free of insulators that can cause an ESD event. On the work area,

insulators such as Styrofoam and other plastics should always be moved at least 12 inches or 30 centimeters away from sensitive

parts before physically handling any hardware components

●ESD Packaging – All ESD-sensitive devices must be shipped and received in static-safe packaging. Metal, static-shielded bags

are preferred. However, you should always return the damaged part using the same ESD bag and packaging that the new part

arrived in. The ESD bag should be folded over and taped shut and all the same foam packing material should be used in the

original box that the new part arrived in. ESD-sensitive devices should be removed from packaging only at an ESD-protected

work surface, and parts should never be placed on top of the ESD bag because only the inside of the bag is shielded. Always

place parts in your hand, on the ESD mat, in the system, or inside an anti-static bag.

●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.

ESD protection summary

It is recommended that all field service technicians use the traditional wired ESD grounding wrist strap and protective anti-static mat

at all times when servicing Dell products. In addition, it is critical that technicians keep sensitive parts separate from all insulator parts

while performing service and that they use anti-static bags for 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.

Lifting equipment

Adhere to the following guidelines when lifting heavy weight equipment:

CAUTION: Do not lift greater than 50 pounds. Always obtain additional resources or use a mechanical lifting device.

1. Get a firm balanced footing. Keep your feet apart for a stable base, and point your toes out.

2. Tighten stomach muscles. Abdominal muscles support your spine when you lift, offsetting the force of the load.

3. Lift with your legs, not your back.

4. Keep the load close. The closer it is to your spine, the less force it exerts on your back.

5. Keep your back upright, whether lifting or setting down the load. Do not add the weight of your body to the load. Avoid twisting

your body and back.

6. Follow the same techniques in reverse to set the load down.

After working inside your computer

About this task

CAUTION: Leaving stray or loose screws inside your computer may severely damage your computer.

Steps

1. Replace all screws and ensure that no stray screws remain inside your computer.

2. Connect any external devices, peripherals, or cables you removed before working on your computer.

3. Replace any media cards, discs, or any other parts that you removed before working on your computer.

4. Connect your computer and all attached devices to their electrical outlets.

5. Turn on your computer.

Removing and installing components

NOTE: The images in this document may differ from your computer depending on the configuration you ordered.

Inside view of your computer

1. power-supply unit 2. 2.5-inch hard drive

3. 2.5-inch hard-drive cage 4. graphics card

5. system board 6. VR heat sink

7. processor fan and liquid cooling assembly 8. top cover

9. 3.5-inch hard-drive cage

System-board components

1. power-supply connector 2. front-panel USB cable 2 (F_USB2)

3. front-panel USB cable 1 (F_USB1) 4. SATA 6 Gbps drive connector (SATA1)

5. SATA 6 Gbps drive connector (SATA2) 6. SATA 6 Gbps drive connector (SATA3)

7. SATA 6 Gbps drive connector (SATA4) 8. solid-state drive slot (M.2 SSD)

9. front-chassis fan connector (FRONT_FAN) 10. coin-cell battery

11. CMOS reset jumper (CMOS_CLR) 12. Password reset jumper (PW_CLR)

13. LED controller connector (LED_CONTROLLER) 14. front audio connector (F_AUDIO)

15. PCI-Express x16 mechanical/x8 electrical slot PCIe Gen4

(SLOT4)

16. PCI-Express x4 slot (SLOT3)

17. PCI-Express x4 slot (SLOT2) 18. PCI-Express x16 mechanical/x8 electrical slot PCIe Gen4

(SLOT1)

19. processor-cooling assembly CPU-fan connector (CPU_FAN) 20.wireless-card slot (M.2 WIFI)

21. processor power-connector (AIX_CPU) 22.top-chassis fan (TOP_FAN)

23. processor-cooling assembly pump-fan connector

(PUMP_FAN)

24.processor socket (CPU1)

25.memory-module slot 3 (DDR4/XMM3) 26.memory-module slot 1 (DDR4/XMM1)

27. memory-module slot 2 (DDR4/XMM4) 28.memory-module slot 4 (DDR4/XMM2)

Recommended tools

The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

●Philips screwdriver #1

●Flat-head screwdriver

●Plastic scribe

Screw list

NOTE: When removing screws from a component, it is recommended to note the screw type, the quantity of screws, and then

place them in a screw storage box. This is to ensure that the correct number of screws and correct screw type is restored when

the component is replaced.

NOTE: Some computers have magnetic surfaces. Ensure that the screws are not left attached to such surfaces when replacing a

component.

NOTE: Screw color may vary with the configuration ordered.

Table 1. Screw list

Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image

Side-panel release latch Chassis 6-32x12-7L 1

2.5-inch hard-drive cage Chassis #6-32 2

3.5-inch hard-drive cage Chassis #6-32 2

Power-supply unit

bracket

Power-supply unit cage #6-32 2

Power-supply unit Chassis #6-32 4

Right tron-light board Chassis #6-32 4

Radiator and fan

assembly

Radiator and fan cage #6-32 4

Antennas Chassis M3x4t 4

Top bezel Chassis #6-32 4

Solid-state drive System board M2x2.5 1

Wireless card System board M2x2.5 1

Cable-management

panel

Chassis #6-32 2

Front-panel light-board Front bezel M2x4 4

Power button module Front bezel M2x4 2

Table 1. Screw list (continued)

Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image

Front I/O-panel Front bezel M3x4 4

System board Chassis #6-32 8

Left-side cover

Removing the left-side cover

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the left-side cover and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the screw (6-32x12-7L) that secures the side-cover release latch to the chassis.

2. Pull the side-cover release latch to release the left-side cover away from the chassis.

3. Lift the left-side panel from the chassis.

Installing the left-side cover

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 left-side cover and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Locate the tabs on the left-side cover and slots on the chassis.

2. Rotate the left-side cover towards the chassis until it snaps into place.

3. Replace the screw (6-32x12-7L) that secures the side-cover release latch to the chassis.

Next steps

1. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Top cover

Removing the top cover

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the top cover and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

Starting from the rear, pull up on the top cover to release it from the chassis.

NOTE: Top cover is tightly secured to the chassis by clips and may requires force to remove it off the chassis.

Installing the top cover

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 top cover and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

Align the tabs on the top cover with the slots on the chassis and snap the top cover into place.

Next steps

1. Install the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Right-side cover

Removing the right-side cover

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the top cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the right-side cover and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Starting from the top-front tab, pull the right-side cover away from the chassis.

2. Remove the right-side cover from the chassis.

Installing the right-side cover

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 right-side cover and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align the tabs on the right-side cover with the slots on the chassis

2. Rotate the right-side cover towards the chassis until it snaps into place.

Next steps

1. Install the top cover.

2. Install the left-side cover.

3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Right tron-light board

Removing the right tron-light board

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the top-cover.

4. Remove the right-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the right tron-light board and provides a visual representation of the removal

procedure.

Steps

1. Disconnect the tron-light cable.

2. Remove the four screws (#6-32) that secure the right tron-light board to the chassis.

3. Remove the right tron-light board off the chassis.

Installing the right tron-light board

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 right tron-light board and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Align the screw holes on the right tron-light board with the screw holes on the chassis.

2. Replace the four screws (#6-32) that secure the right tron-light board to the chassis.

3. Connect the tron-light cable.

Next steps

1. Install the right-side cover.

2. Install the top-cover.

3. Install the left-side cover.

4. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

2.5-inch hard drive

Removing the 2.5-inch hard drive

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the 2.5-inch hard drive and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Disconnect the data and power cables from the hard drive.

2. Press the release tabs on the hard-drive carrier and slide the hard-drive assembly out of the hard-drive cage.

3. Pry the hard-drive carrier to release the tabs on the assembly from the slots on the hard drive.

4. Lift the hard drive out of the hard-drive assembly.

NOTE: Note the orientation of the hard drive so that you can replace it correctly.

NOTE: Repeat the steps to remove any additional 2.5-inch hard drive from your computer.

Installing the 2.5-inch hard drive

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 2.5-inch hard drive and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

NOTE: Note the orientation on the hard-drive carrier to replace it correctly.

Steps

1. Align the hard drive with the pins on the hard-drive carrier.

2. Using the tabs on the opposite side, flex open the carrier to insert the pins on the other side.

3. Slide the hard-drive assembly into the hard-drive cage until it snaps into place.

4. Connect the data cable and power cable to the hard drive.

Next steps

1. Install the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

3. Verify if the storage device is installed correctly:

a. Turn on or restart your computer.

b. Press F2 when the Dell logo is displayed on the screen to enter the system setup (BIOS) program.

NOTE: A list of storage devices are displayed under the System Information in the General group.

c. If you have replaced the primary storage device that had the operating system installed, see Reinstall Windows to the Dell

factory image using recovery media in the knowledge base article 000176966.

3.5-inch hard drive

Removing the 3.5-inch hard drive

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the 3.5-inch hard drive and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Disconnect the data and power cables from the hard drive.

2. Press the release tabs on the hard-drive carrier and slide the hard-drive carrier out of the hard-drive cage.

3. Pry the hard-drive carrier to release the tabs on the carrier from the slots on the hard drive.

4. Lift the hard drive out of the hard-drive assembly.

NOTE: Note the orientation of the hard drive so that you can replace it correctly.

Installing the 3.5-inch hard drive

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 3.5-inch hard drive and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

NOTE: Note the orientation on the hard-drive carrier to replace it correctly.

Steps

1. Align the hard drive with the pins on the hard-drive carrier.

2. Using the tabs on the opposite side, flex open the carrier to insert the pins on the other side.

3. Slide the hard-drive assembly into the hard-drive cage until it snaps into place.

4. Connect the data and power cables to the hard drive.

Next steps

1. Install the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

3. Verify if the storage device is installed correctly:

a. Turn on or restart your computer.

b. Press F2 when the Dell logo is displayed on the screen to enter the system setup (BIOS) program.

NOTE: A list of storage devices are displayed under the System Information in the General group.

c. If you have replaced the primary storage device that had the operating system installed, see Reinstall Windows to the Dell

factory image using recovery media in the knowledge base article 000176966.

2.5-inch hard-drive cage

Removing the 2.5-inch hard-drive cage

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 2 in removing the 2.5-inch hard drive, if installed.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the 2.5-inch and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the two screws (#6-32) that secure the 2.5-inch hard-drive cage to the chassis.

2. Slide and remove the 2.5-inch hard-drive cage off the chassis.

NOTE: Repeat the procedure from step 1 to step 2 to remove the other 2.5-inch hard-drive cage.

Installing the 2.5-inch hard-drive cage

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 2.5-inch hard-drive cage and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Insert the 2.5-inch hard-drive cage into its slot on the chassis.

2. Align the tabs on the cage with the tabs on the chassis.

3. Replace the two screws (#6-32) that secure the 2.5-inch hard-drive cage to the chassis.

NOTE: Repeat the procedure from step 1 to step 3 to install the other 2.5-inch hard-drive cage.

Next steps

1. Follow the procedure from step 3 to step 4 in installing the 2.5-inch hard drive, if installed.

2. Install the left-side cover.

3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

3.5-inch hard-drive cage

Removing the 3.5-inch hard-drive cage

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 2 in removing the 3.5-inch hard drive, if installed.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the 3.5-inch and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the two screws (#6-32) that secure the 3.5-inch hard-drive cage to the chassis.

2. Lift the 3.5-inch hard-drive cage off the chassis.

Installing the 3.5-inch hard-drive cage

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 3.5-inch hard-drive cage and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Insert the 3.5-inch hard-drive cage into its slot on the chassis.

2. Align the tabs on the cage with the tabs on the chassis.

3. Replace the two screws (#6-32) that secure the 3.5-inch hard-drive cage to the chassis.

Next steps

1. Follow the procedure from step 3 to step 4 in installing the 3.5-inch hard drive, if installed.

2. Install the left-side cover.

3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

550 W power-supply unit

Removing the 550 W power-supply unit

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

NOTE: Note the routing of all cables as you remove them so that you can route them correctly after you replace the power-

supply unit.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the power-supply unit and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the two screws (#6-32) that secure the power-supply unit bracket to the power-supply unit cage.

2. Lift the power-supply unit bracket off the power-supply unit cage.

3. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches to the unlock position.

4. Lift the power-supply unit cage and rotate the power-supply unit cage away from the chassis.

5. Press the releasing clip on the power-cable connectors.

6. Disconnect the power cables from the hard drives.

7. Disconnect the processor-power cable and system-board power cable from the system board.

8. Rotate the power-supply unit cage towards the chassis.

9. Remove the four screws (#6-32) that secure the power-supply unit to the chassis.

10.Slide and lift the power-supply unit, along with the cables, off the chassis.

Installing the 550 W power-supply unit

Prerequisites

If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.

WARNING: The cables and ports on the back of the power-supply unit are color-coded to indicate the different power

wattage. Ensure that you plug in the cable to the correct port. Failure to do so may result in damaging the power-supply

unit and/or system components.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the power-supply unit and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Place the power supply on the chassis.

2. Align the screw holes on the power-supply unit with the screw holes on the chassis.

3. Replace the four screws (#6-32) that secure the power-supply unit to the chassis.

4. Lift and rotate the power-supply unit cage away from the chassis

5. Connect the processor-power cable and system-board power cable to the system board.

6. Connect the power cables to the hard drives.

7. Rotate the power-supply unit cage towards the chassis

8. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches towards the locked position.

9. Align the screw holes on the power-supply unit bracket with the screw holes on the power-supply unit cage.

10.Replace the two screws (#6-32) that secure the power-supply unit bracket to the power-supply unit cage.

Next steps

1. Install the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

1000 W Power-supply unit

Removing the 1000 W power-supply unit

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

NOTE: Note the routing of all cables as you remove them so that you can route them correctly after you replace the power-

supply unit.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the power-supply unit and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the two screws (#6-32) that secure the power-supply unit bracket to the power-supply unit cage.

2. Lift the power-supply unit bracket off the power-supply unit cage.

3. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches to the unlock position.

4. Lift the power-supply unit cage and rotate the power-supply unit cage away from the chassis.

5. Press the releasing clip on the power-cable connectors and disconnect all the power cables from the power-supply unit.

6. Remove the four screws (#6-32) that secure the power-supply unit to the chassis.

7. Slide and lift the power-supply unit, along with the cables, off the chassis.

Installing the 1000 W power-supply unit

Prerequisites

If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.

WARNING: The cables and ports on the back of the power-supply unit are color-coded to indicate the different power

wattage. Ensure that you plug in the cable to the correct port. Failure to do so may result in damaging the power-supply

unit and/or system components.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the power-supply unit and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Place the power supply on the chassis.

2. Align the screw holes on the power-supply unit with the screw holes on the chassis.

3. Replace the four screws (#6-32) that secure the power-supply unit to the chassis.

4. Connect all the power cables to the power-supply unit.

5. Align the screw holes on the power-supply unit bracket with the screw holes on the power-supply unit cage.

6. Replace the two screws (#6-32) that secure the power-supply unit bracket to the power-supply unit cage.

Next steps

1. Install the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Coin-cell battery

Removing the coin-cell battery

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

NOTE: 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. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/

regulatory_compliance.

CAUTION: Removing the coin-cell battery resets the BIOS setup program’s settings to default. It is recommended that

you note the BIOS setup program’s settings before removing the coin-cell battery.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the coin-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Lay the computer on the right side.

2. Press the releasing clip on the power-cable connectors and disconnect the power cables from the graphics card.

3. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches to the unlock position.

4. Lift the power-supply unit cage and rotate the power-supply unit cage away from the chassis.

5. Press the battery-release lever away from the coin-cell battery until the coin-cell battery pops up.

6. Lift the coin-cell battery out of its socket.

Installing the coin-cell battery

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 coin-cell battery and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Insert a new coin-cell battery (CR2032) into the battery socket with the positive side facing up, and snap the battery into place.

2. Rotate the power-supply unit cage towards the chassis.

3. Connect the power cables to the graphics card.

4. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches towards the locked position.

Next steps

1. Install the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Memory modules

Removing the memory modules

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the memory modules and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Lay the computer on the right side.

2. Press the releasing clip on the power-cable connectors and disconnect the power cables from the graphics card.

3. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches to the unlock position.

4. Lift the power-supply unit cage and rotate the power-supply unit cage away from the chassis.

5. Push the securing clips away from the memory module.

6. Grasp the memory module near the securing clip, and then gently ease the memory module out of the memory-module slot.

NOTE: Repeat step 5 to step 6 to remove any other memory modules installed in your computer.

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges. Do not touch the

components on the memory module.

Installing the memory modules

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 memory modules and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Ensure that the securing clips are extended away from the memory-module slot.

2. Align the notch on the memory module with the tab on the memory-module slot.

3. Insert the memory module into the memory-module slot and press the memory module down until it snaps into position and the

securing clips lock in place.

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges. Do not touch the

components on the memory module.

NOTE: Repeat step 1 to step 3 to replace any other memory modules installed in your computer.

4. Rotate the power-supply unit cage towards the chassis.

5. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches towards the locked position.

NOTE: Use slots XMM1 and XMM2 if you need to use two memory modules. For more information, see system-board

components.

The following table lists the available memory configuration matrix:

Table 2. Memory configuration matrix

Configuration Slot

XMM1 XMM2 XMM3 XMM4

8 GB DDR4 8 GB

16 GB DDR4 8 GB 8 GB

Table 2. Memory configuration matrix (continued)

Configuration Slot

XMM1 XMM2 XMM3 XMM4

32 GB DDR4 16 GB 16 GB

64 GB DDR4 16 GB 16 GB 16 GB 16 GB

16 GB XMP 8 GB 8 GB

32 GB XMP 16 GB 16 GB

64 GB XMP 16 GB 16 GB 16 GB 16 GB

128 GB XMP 32 GB 32 GB 32 GB 32 GB

Next steps

1. Remove the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Single-graphics card

Removing the single-graphics card

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the graphics card and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Lay the computer on the right side.

2. Press the releasing clip on the power-cable connectors and disconnect the power cables from the graphics card.

3. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches to the unlock position.

4. Lift the power-supply unit cage and rotate the power-supply unit cage away from the chassis.

5. Lift to release the graphics-card bracket from the chassis.

6. Press the releasing clip on the power-cable connectors and disconnect the power cables from the graphics card.

7. Push the securing tab on the PCIe slot away from the graphics card, grasp the card by its top corner, and ease it out of the slot.

Installing the single-graphics card

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 graphics card and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

NOTE: Install AMD Vega 20 only into the PCIe slot 1 of your computer. If installed on PCIe slot 4, the power-supply unit cannot

be closed.

NOTE: If you are using any other graphics card other than AMD Vega 20, it can be installed into the appropriate PCIe slot i.e.

X4, X8 or X16 on your computer.

Steps

1. Place the card into the X16 slot and press down firmly until the graphics card snaps into place.

2. Connect the power cables to the graphics card.

3. Slide the tab on the graphics-card bracket into the slot on the chassis and rotate it into place.

4. Rotate the power-supply unit cage towards the chassis.

5. Connect the power cables to the graphics card.

6. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches towards the locked position.

Next steps

1. Install the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Solid-state drive

Removing the solid-state drive

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

CAUTION: Solid-state drives are fragile. Exercise care when handling the solid-state drive.

NOTE: To avoid data loss, do not remove the drive while the computer is in sleep or on state.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the single-graphics card.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the solid-state drive to the system board.

2. Slide and lift the solid-state drive off the system board.

Installing the solid-state drive

Prerequisites

If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.

CAUTION: Solid-state drives are fragile. Exercise care when handling the solid-state drive.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align the notch on the solid-state drive with the tab on the solid-state drive slot.

2. Insert the solid-state drive at a 45-degree angle into the system board.

3. Press the other end of the solid-state drive down and replace the screw (M2x2.5) that secure the solid-state drive to the system

board.

Next steps

1. Install the single-graphics card.

2. Install the left-side cover.

3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

4. Verify if the storage device is installed correctly:

a. Turn on or restart your computer.

b. Press F2 when the Dell logo is displayed on the screen to enter the system setup (BIOS) program.

NOTE: A list of storage devices are displayed under the System Information in the General group.

c. If you have replaced the primary storage device that had the operating system installed, see Reinstall Windows to the Dell

factory image using recovery media in the knowledge base article 000176966.

Front bezel

Removing the front bezel

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the top-cover.

4. Remove the right-side cover.

5. Remove the single-graphics card.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the front bezel and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Place the computer in an upright position.

2. Disconnect the USB cables, LED controller cable and audio cable from the system board and remove the cables from the routing

guides on the inside of the chassis.

3. Rotate and pull the front bezel away from the front of the chassis to release the tabs on the front bezel from the slots on the front

panel.

4. Remove the two screws (#6-32) that secure the front-panel slot cover to the chassis.

5. Remove the cable management cover off the chassis.

6. Lay the computer on the right side.

7. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches to the unlock position.

8. Lift the power-supply unit cage and rotate the power-supply unit cage away from the chassis.

9. Rotate the power-supply unit cage towards the chassis.

10.Press the releasing clip on the power-cable connectors and disconnect the power cables from the graphics card.

11. Disconnect the tron-light cable and then remove the cable from the routing guides on the chassis.

12. Route the cables through the slot on the front panel and lift the front bezel away from the chassis.

Installing the front bezel

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 front bezel and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Route the cables through the slot on the front panel and align and clip the front bezel into place.

2. Connect the USB cables, LED controller cable and audio cable to the system board and route the cables through the routing

guides on the inside of the chassis.

3. Align the screw hole of the cable management cover with the screw hole on the chassis.

4. Replace the two screws (#6-32) that secure the cable management cover to the chassis.

5. Place the computer in an upright position.

6. Rotate the power-supply unit cage towards the chassis.

7. Connect the power cables to the graphics card.

8. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches towards the locked position.

9. Route the tron-light cable through the routing guides on the chassis and connect the tron-light cable.

Next steps

1. Install the single-graphics card.

2. Install the right-side cover.

3. Install the top-cover.

4. Install the left-side cover.

5. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Top bezel

Removing the top bezel

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the top cover.

4. Remove the right-side cover.

5. Remove the wireless card.

6. Remove the front bezel.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the top bezel and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the four screws (#6-32) that secure the top bezel to the right and left of the chassis.

2. Lift the top cover off the chassis.

Installing the top bezel

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 top bezel and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Route the antenna cable through the slots on the chassis.

2. Align the tabs on the top cover with the slots on the chassis and snap the top cover into place.

3. Replace the four screws (#6-32) that secure the top bezel to the right and left of the chassis.

Next steps

1. Install the front bezel.

2. Install the wireless card.

3. Install the right-side cover.

4. Install the top cover.

5. Install the left-side cover.

6. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Bottom cover

Removing the bottom cover

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the top cover.

4. Remove the right-side cover.

5. Remove the 2.5-inch hard-drive cages.

6. Remove the front bezel.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the bottom cover and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Place the computer on a clean and flat surface with the left side facing up.

2. Press the securing tabs to release the bottom cover from the slots on the chassis.

3. Remove the bottom cover from the chassis.

Installing the bottom cover

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 bottom cover and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align the tabs on the bottom cover with the slots on the chassis.

2. Rotate the bottom cover towards the chassis until it snaps into place.

Next steps

1. Install the front bezel.

2. Install the 2.5-inch hard-drive cages.

3. Install the right-side cover.

4. Install the top cover.

5. Install the left-side cover.

6. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Processor fan and heat-sink assembly

Removing the processor fan and heat-sink assembly

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

NOTE: The heat sink may become hot during normal operation. Allow sufficient time for the heat sink to cool before you

touch it.

CAUTION: For maximum cooling of the processor, do not touch the heat transfer areas on the heat sink. The oils in your

skin can reduce the heat transfer capability of the thermal grease.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the processor fan and heat-sink assembly and provides a visual representation of the

removal procedure.

Steps

1. Lay the computer on the right side.

2. Press the releasing clip on the power-cable connectors and disconnect the power cables from the graphics card.

3. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches to the unlock position.

4. Lift the power-supply unit cage and rotate the power-supply unit cage away from the chassis.

5. Disconnect the processor-fan cable from the system board.

6. In reverse sequential order, loosen the four captive screws that secure the processor fan and heat-sink assembly to the system

board.

7. Lift the processor fan and heat-sink assembly off the system board.

Installing the processor fan and heat-sink assembly

Prerequisites

If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.

CAUTION: If either the processor or the heat sink is replaced, use the thermal grease provided in the kit to ensure that

thermal conductivity is achieved.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the processor fan and heat-sink assembly and provides a visual representation of the

installation procedure.

Steps

1. Place the processor fan and heat-sink assembly on the processor.

2. Align the captive screws on the processor fan heat-sink assembly with the screw holes on the system board.

3. In sequential order, tighten the four captive screws that secure the processor fan and heat-sink assembly to the system board.

4. Connect the processor-fan cable to the system board.

5. Rotate the power-supply unit cage towards the chassis.

6. Connect the power cables to the graphics card.

7. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches towards the locked position.

Next steps

1. Install the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Processor liquid-cooling assembly

Removing the processor liquid-cooling assembly

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

WARNING: Despite having a plastic shield, the processor liquid-cooling assembly may be very hot during normal

operation. Ensure that it had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.

CAUTION: To ensure maximum cooling for the processor, do not touch the heat transfer areas on the processor

liquid-cooling assembly. The oils in your skin can reduce the heat transfer capability of the thermal grease.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the top-cover.

4. Remove the right-side cover.

5. Remove the memory modules.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the processor liquid-cooling assembly and provides a visual representation of the

removal procedure.

Steps

1. Lay the computer on the right side.

2. Press the releasing clip on the power-cable connectors and disconnect the power cables from the graphics card.

3. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches to the unlock position.

4. Lift the power-supply unit cage.

5. Rotate the power-supply unit cage away from the chassis.

6. Loosen the three captive screws that secure the VR heat sink to the system board.

7. Remove the four screws (#6-32) that secure the radiator and fan assembly to the radiator and fan cage.

8. Lift the VR heat sink off the computer.

9. Disconnect the processor-cooling assembly cables from the system board.

10.In the reverse sequential order (as indicated on the processor cooler), loosen the four captive screws that secure the processor

cooler to the system board.

NOTE: If your are using an electric screwdriver, torque the screws at 6.9 +/-1.15 kilogram-force centimeter (6 +/-1 pound

force inch).

11. Lift the processor-cooling assembly along with the cables off the computer.

Installing the processor liquid-cooling assembly

Prerequisites

If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.

CAUTION: Incorrect alignment of the processor liquid-cooling assembly can damage the system board and processor.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the processor liquid-cooling assembly and provides a visual representation of the

installation procedure.

Steps

1. Slide the radiator and fan assembly into the radiator and fan cage.

NOTE: Ensure that the hoses are facing the front of the system

2. Align the screw holes on the processor cooler with the screw holes on the system board.

3. In the sequential order (as indicated on the processor cooler), tighten the four captive screws that secure the processor cooler to

the system board.

NOTE: If your are using an electric screwdriver, torque the screws at 6.9 +/-1.15 kilogram-force centimeter (6 +/-1 pound

force inch).

4. Align the screw holes of the VR heat sink with the screw holes on the system board.

5. Tighten the three captive screws that secure the VR heat sink to the system board.

6. Connect the processor-cooling assembly cables to the system board.

7. Replace the four screws (#6-32) that secure the radiator and fan assembly to the chassis.

8. Rotate the power-supply unit cage towards the chassis.

9. Connect the power cables to the graphics card.

10.Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches towards the locked position.

Next steps

1. Install the right-side cover.

2. Install the top-cover.

3. Install the left-side cover.

4. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Processor

Removing the processor

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the processor liquid-cooling assembly or processor fan and heat-sink assembly, as applicable.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the processor and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Press the release lever down and then push it away from the processor to release it from the tab.

2. Extend the release lever completely and open the processor cover.

3. Lift the processor off the processor socket.

Installing the processor

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 processor and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Ensure that the release lever on the processor socket is fully extended and the processor cover is fully open.

CAUTION: Position the processor correctly in the processor socket to avoid permanent damage to the processor.

2. Align the pin-1 corner on the processor with the pin-1 corner on the processor socket, and then place the processor in the

processor socket.

CAUTION: Ensure that the processor-cover notch is positioned underneath the alignment post.

3. When the processor is fully seated in the socket, close the processor cover.

4. Pivot the release lever down and place it under the tab on the processor cover.

Next steps

1. Install the processor liquid-cooling assembly or processor fan and heat-sink assembly, as applicable.

2. Install the left-side cover.

3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Wireless card

Removing the wireless card

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the single-graphics card.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the wireless card and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the wireless card to the system board.

2. Lift the wireless-card bracket off the wireless card.

3. Disconnect the antenna cables from the wireless card.

4. Slide and remove the wireless card from the wireless-card slot.

Installing the wireless card

Prerequisites

If you are replacing a component, remove the existing component before performing the installation procedure.

CAUTION: To avoid damage to the wireless mini-card, do not place any cables under it.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the wireless card and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Connect the antenna cables to the wireless card.

The following table provides the antenna-cable color scheme for the wireless card supported by your computer.

Table 3. Antenna-cable color scheme

Connectors on the wireless card Antenna-cable color

Main (white triangle) White

Auxiliary (black triangle) Black

2. Place the wireless-card bracket on the wireless card.

3. Align the notch on the wireless card with the tab on the wireless-card slot.

4. Slide the wireless card at an angle into the wireless-card slot.

5. Replace the screw (M2x2.5) that secures the wireless card to the system board.

Next steps

1. Install the single-graphics card.

2. Install the left-side cover.

3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Antennas

Removing the antennas

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the top-cover.

4. Remove the right-side cover.

5. Remove the wireless card.

6. Remove the front bezel.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the antennas and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the four screws (M3x4t) that secures the antennas to the top bezel.

2. Remove the antenna cables from the routing guides on the top bezel.

3. Lift the antenna off the top bezel.

Installing the antennas

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 antennas and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Adhere the antenna to the chassis.

2. Replace the four screws (M3x4t) that secures the antennas to the chassis.

3. Route the antenna cables through the routing guides on the top bezel.

Next steps

1. Install the front bezel.

2. Install the wireless card.

3. Install the right-side cover.

4. Install the top-cover.

5. Install the left-side cover.

6. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Front I/O-panel

Removing the front I/O panel

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the top cover.

3. Remove the left-side cover.

4. Remove the right-side cover.

5. Remove the front bezel.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the front I/O-panel and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the four screws (M3x4) that secures the front I/O-panel to the front bezel.

2. Remove the cable from the routing guides on the front I/O-panel.

3. Press the two clips and lift the front I/O-panel off the front bezel.

Installing the front I/O-panel

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 front I/O-panel and provide a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align the screw holes on the front I/O-panel with the screw holes on the front bezel and snap it into place.

2. Route the cables through the routing guides on the front I/O-panel.

3. Replace the four screws (M3x4) that secures the front I/O-panel to the front bezel.

Next steps

1. Install the front bezel.

2. Install the right-side cover.

3. Install the left-side cover.

4. Install the top cover.

5. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Front-chassis fan

Removing the front-chassis fan

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the single-graphics card.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the front-chassis fan and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Disconnect the front-chassis fan cable from the system board.

2. Push the tab to release the front-chassis fan from the chassis.

3. Slide and lift the front-chassis fan off the chassis.

Installing the front-chassis fan

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 front-chassis fan and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align the tabs on the front-chassis fan with the slots on the chassis and slide the fan until it snaps into position.

2. Connect the front-chassis fan cable to the system board.

Next steps

1. Install the single-graphics card.

2. Install the left-side cover.

3. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Top-chassis fan

Removing the top-chassis fan

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the top-chassis fan and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Lay the computer on the right side.

2. Press the releasing clip on the power-cable connectors and disconnect the power cables from the graphics card.

3. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches to the unlock position.

4. Lift the power-supply unit cage and rotate the power-supply unit cage away from the chassis.

5. Remove the screw that secures the top-chassis fan to the chassis.

6. Disconnect the top-chassis fan cable from the system board.

7. Remove the top-chassis fan from the chassis.

8. Remove the top-chassis fan cable from the routing guide on the top-chassis fan bracket.

9. Push the rubber grommets through the holes at each corner of the fan to release top-chassis fan from the bracket.

10.Slide the top-chassis fan off the top-chassis fan bracket.

Installing the top-chassis fan

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 top-chassis fan and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align the holes on the top-chassis fan with the holes on the top-chassis fan bracket.

2. Insert the ends of the rubber grommets through the holes at each corner of the fan.

3. Align the grommets in the fan with the holes at each corner of the top-chassis fan bracket and pull through until they snap into

place.

4. Replace the screw (#6-32) that secures the top-chassis fan to the chassis.

5. Route the top-chassis fan cable through the routing guide on the bracket.

6. Align the tabs on the top-chassis fan with the slots on the chassis and slide the fan until it snaps into position.

7. Replace the screw that secures the top-chassis fan to the chassis.

8. Connect the top-chassis fan cable to the system board.

9. Rotate the power-supply unit cage towards the chassis.

10.Connect the power cables to the graphics card.

11. Slide the power-supply unit cage release latches towards the locked position.

Next steps

1. Install the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Front AlienFX LED boards

Removing the front AlienFX LED board

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the right-side cover.

4. Remove the top-cover.

5. Remove the front bezel.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the front AlienFX LED board and provides a visual representation of the removal

procedure.

Steps

1. Disconnect the AlienFX LED board cable from a Y-cable.

2. Remove the four screws (M3x4) that secure the AlienFX LED board to the front bezel.

3. Lift the AlienFX LED board off the front bezel.

Installing the front AlienFX LED board

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 front AlienFX LED board and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Align the screw hole of the AlienFX LED board to the screw hole on the front bezel.

2. Replace the four screws (M3x4) that secure the AlienFX LED board to the front bezel.

3. Connect the AlienFX LED board cable from a Y-cable.

Next steps

1. Install the front bezel.

2. Install the top-cover.

3. Install the right-side cover.

4. Install the left-side cover.

5. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Power-button board

Removing the power-button board

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the right-side cover.

4. Remove the top-cover.

5. Remove the front bezel.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the power-button board and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the two screws (M2x4) that secure the power-button module to the front bezel.

2. Lift the power-button module off the front bezel.

3. Disconnect the cables from the power-button module.

Installing the power-button board

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 power-button board and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Align the screw holes on the power-button module with the screw holes on the front bezel.

2. Replace the two screws (M2x4) that secure the power-button module to the front bezel.

3. Connect the cables to the power-button module.

Next steps

1. Install the front bezel.

2. Install the top-cover.

3. Install the right-side cover.

4. Install the left-side cover.

5. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

System board

Removing the system board

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

NOTE: Your computer’s Service Tag is stored in the system board. You must enter the Service Tag in the BIOS setup program

after you replace the system board.

NOTE: Replacing the system board removes any changes you have made to the BIOS using the BIOS setup program. You

must make the appropriate changes again after you replace the system board.

NOTE: Before disconnecting the cables from the system board, note the location of the connectors so that you can

reconnect the cables correctly after you replace the system board.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

3. Remove the memory modules.

4. Remove the solid-state drive.

5. Remove the wireless card.

6. Remove the processor liquid-cooling assembly or processor fan and heat-sink assembly, as applicable.

7. Remove the single-graphics card.

8. Remove the processor.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the system board and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Disconnect all the cables connected to the system board.

NOTE: Note the routing of all cables as you remove them so that you can route them correctly after you replace the system

board. For information on system-board connectors, see "system-board components".

2. Remove the eight screws (#6-32) that secure the system-board assembly to the chassis.

3. Lift the system board off the chassis.

Installing the system board

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 system board and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align the ports on the system-board assembly with the slots on the chassis and align the system-board assembly in place.

2. Slide the system-board assembly to engage the latches that secure it to the chassis.

3. Replace the eight screws (#6-32) that secure the system-board assembly to the chassis.

4. Route and connect the cables that you disconnected from the system-board assembly.

NOTE: For information on system-board connectors, see "system-board components".

Next steps

1. Install the processor.

2. Install the single-graphics card.

3. Install the processor liquid-cooling assembly or processor fan and heat-sink assembly, as applicable.

4. Install the wireless card.

5. Install the solid-state drive.

6. Install the memory modules.

7. Install the left-side cover.

8. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

NOTE: Your computer’s Service Tag is stored in the system board. You must enter the Service Tag in the BIOS setup program

after you replace the system board.

NOTE: Replacing the system board removes any changes you have made to the BIOS using the BIOS setup program. You

must make the appropriate changes again after you replace the system board.

Entering the Service Tag in the BIOS setup program

Steps

1. Turn on or restart your computer.

2. Press F2 when the Dell logo is displayed to enter the BIOS setup program.

3. Navigate to the Main tab and enter the Service Tag in the Service Tag Input field.

Next steps

NOTE: Service tag is the alphanumeric identifier located at the back side of your computer.

Device drivers

Operating system

Your Alienware Aurora R12 supports the following operating systems:

●Windows 11 Home, 64-bit

●Windows 11 Pro, 64-bit

●Windows 10 Home, 64-bit

●Windows 10 Pro, 64-bit

Downloading the audio driver

Steps

1. Turn on your computer.

2. Go to www.dell.com/support.

3. Enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit.

NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model.

4. Click Drivers & downloads.

5. Click the Detect Drivers button.

6. Review and agree to the Terms and Conditions to use SupportAssist, then click Continue.

7. If necessary, your computer starts to download and install SupportAssist.

NOTE: Review on-screen instructions for browser-specific instructions.

8. Click View Drivers for My System.

9. Click Download and Install to download and install all driver updates detected for your computer.

10.Select a location to save the files.

11. If prompted, approve requests from User Account Control to make changes on the system.

12. The application installs all drivers and updates identified.

NOTE: Not all files can be installed automatically. Review the installation summary to identify if manual installation is

necessary.

13. For manual download and installation, click Category.

14. Click Audio in the drop-down list.

15.Click Download to download the audio driver for your computer.

16.After the download is complete, navigate to the folder where you saved the audio driver file.

17. Double-click the audio driver file icon and follow the instructions on the screen to install the driver.

Downloading the graphics driver

Steps

1. Turn on your computer.

2. Go to www.dell.com/support.

3. Enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit.

NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model.

4. Click Drivers & downloads.

5. Click the Detect Drivers button.

6. Review and agree to the Terms and Conditions to use SupportAssist, then click Continue.

7. If necessary, your computer starts to download and install SupportAssist.

NOTE: Review on-screen instructions for browser-specific instructions.

8. Click View Drivers for My System.

9. Click Download and Install to download and install all driver updates detected for your computer.

10.Select a location to save the files.

11. If prompted, approve requests from User Account Control to make changes on the system.

12. The application installs all drivers and updates identified.

NOTE: Not all files can be installed automatically. Review the installation summary to identify if manual installation is

necessary.

13. For manual download and installation, click Category.

14. Click Video in the drop-down list.

15.Click Download to download the graphics driver for your computer.

16.After the download is complete, navigate to the folder where you saved the graphics driver file.

17. Double-click the graphics driver file icon and follow the instructions on the screen to install the driver.

Downloading the USB driver

Steps

1. Turn on your computer.

2. Go to www.dell.com/support.

3. Enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit.

NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model.

4. Click Drivers & downloads.

5. Click the Detect Drivers button.

6. Review and agree to the Terms and Conditions to use SupportAssist, then click Continue.

7. If necessary, your computer starts to download and install SupportAssist.

NOTE: Review on-screen instructions for browser-specific instructions.

8. Click View Drivers for My System.

9. Click Download and Install to download and install all driver updates detected for your computer.

10.Select a location to save the files.

11. If prompted, approve requests from User Account Control to make changes on the computer.

12. The application installs all drivers and updates identified.

NOTE: Not all files can be installed automatically. Review the installation summary to identify if manual installation is

necessary.

13. For manual download and installation, click Category.

14. Click Chipset in the drop-down list.

15.Click Download to download the USB driver for your computer.

16.After the download is complete, browse the folder where you saved the USB driver file.

17. Double-click the USB driver file icon and follow the instructions on the screen to install the driver.

Downloading the WiFi driver

Steps

1. Turn on your computer.

2. Go to www.dell.com/support.

3. Enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit.

NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model.

4. Click Drivers & downloads.

5. Click the Detect Drivers button.

6. Review and agree to the Terms and Conditions to use SupportAssist, then click Continue.

7. If necessary, your computer starts to download and install SupportAssist.

NOTE: Review on-screen instructions for browser-specific instructions.

8. Click View Drivers for My System.

9. Click Download and Install to download and install all driver updates detected for your computer.

10.Select a location to save the files.

11. If prompted, approve requests from User Account Control to make changes on the system.

12. The application installs all drivers and updates identified.

NOTE: Not all files can be installed automatically. Review the installation summary to identify if manual installation is

necessary.

13. For manual download and installation, click Category.

14. Click Network in the drop-down list.

15.Click Download to download the WiFi driver for your computer.

16.After the download is complete, navigate to the folder where you saved the WiFi driver file.

17. Double-click the WiFi driver icon and follow the instructions on the screen to install the driver.

Downloading the media-card reader driver

Steps

1. Turn on your computer.

2. Go to www.dell.com/support.

3. Enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit.

NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model.

4. Click Drivers & downloads.

5. Click the Detect Drivers button.

6. Review and agree to the Terms and Conditions to use SupportAssist, then click Continue.

7. If necessary, your computer starts to download and install SupportAssist.

NOTE: Review on-screen instructions for browser-specific instructions.

8. Click View Drivers for My System.

9. Click Download and Install to download and install all driver updates detected for your computer.

10.Select a location to save the files.

11. If prompted, approve requests from User Account Control to make changes on the system.

12. The application installs all drivers and updates identified.

NOTE: Not all files can be installed automatically. Review the installation summary to identify if manual installation is

necessary.

13. For manual download and installation, click Category.

14. Click Chipset in the drop-down list.

15.Click Download to download the media-card reader driver for your computer.

16.After the download is complete, navigate to the folder where you saved the media-card reader driver file.

17. Double-click the media-card reader driver file icon and follow the instructions on the screen to install the driver.

Downloading the chipset driver

Steps

1. Turn on your computer.

2. Go to www.dell.com/support.

3. Enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit.

NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model.

4. Click Drivers & downloads.

5. Click the Detect Drivers button.

6. Review and agree to the Terms and Conditions to use SupportAssist, then click Continue.

7. If necessary, your computer starts to download and install SupportAssist.

NOTE: Review on-screen instructions for browser-specific instructions.

8. Click View Drivers for My System.

9. Click Download and Install to download and install all driver updates detected for your computer.

10.Select a location to save the files.

11. If prompted, approve requests from User Account Control to make changes on the computer.

12. The application installs all drivers and updates identified.

NOTE: Not all files can be installed automatically. Review the installation summary to identify if manual installation is

necessary.

13. For manual download and installation, click Category.

14. Click Chipset in the drop-down list.

15.Click Download to download the chipset driver for your computer.

16.After the download is complete, browse the folder where you saved the chipset driver file.

17. Double-click the chipset driver file icon and follow the instructions on the screen to install the driver.

Downloading the network driver

Steps

1. Turn on your computer.

2. Go to www.dell.com/support.

3. Enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit.

NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the auto-detect feature or manually browse for your computer model.

4. Click Drivers & downloads.

5. Click the Detect Drivers button.

6. Review and agree to the Terms and Conditions to use SupportAssist, then click Continue.

7. If necessary, your computer starts to download and install SupportAssist.

NOTE: Review on-screen instructions for browser-specific instructions.

8. Click View Drivers for My System.

9. Click Download and Install to download and install all driver updates detected for your computer.

10.Select a location to save the files.

11. If prompted, approve requests from User Account Control to make changes on the system.

12. The application installs all drivers and updates identified.

NOTE: Not all files can be installed automatically. Review the installation summary to identify if manual installation is

necessary.

13. For manual download and installation, click Category.

14. Click Network in the drop-down list.

15.Click Download to download the network driver for your computer.

16.After the download is complete, navigate to the folder where you saved the network driver file.

17. Double-click the network driver file icon and follow the instructions on the screen to install the driver.

System setup

NOTE: Depending on the computer and its installed devices, the items listed in this section may or may not be displayed.

System setup

CAUTION: Unless you are an expert computer user, do not change the settings in the BIOS Setup program. Certain

changes can make your computer work incorrectly.

NOTE: Before you change BIOS Setup program, it is recommended that you write down the BIOS Setup program screen

information for future reference.

Use the BIOS Setup program for the following purposes:

●Get information about the hardware installed in your computer, such as the amount of RAM and the size of the hard drive.

●Change the system configuration information.

●Set or change a user-selectable option, such as the user password, type of hard drive installed, and enabling or disabling base

devices.

Entering BIOS setup program

About this task

Turn on (or restart) your computer and press F2 immediately.

Navigation keys

NOTE: For most of the System Setup options, changes that you make are recorded but do not take effect until you restart the

system.

Keys Navigation

Up arrow Moves to the previous field.

Down arrow Moves to the next field.

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.

Tab Moves to the next focus area.

Esc Moves to the previous page until you view the main screen. Pressing Esc in the main screen displays a message

that prompts you to save any unsaved changes and restarts the system.

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:

●Access System Setup by pressing F2 key

●Bring up the one-time boot menu by pressing F12 key

The one-time boot menu displays the devices that you can boot from including the diagnostic option. The boot menu options are:

●Removable Drive (if available)

●STXXXX Drive (if available)

NOTE: XXX denotes the SATA drive number.

●Optical Drive (if available)

●SATA Hard Drive (if available)

●Diagnostics

The boot sequence screen also displays the option to access the System Setup screen.

System and setup password

Table 4. System and setup password

Password type Description

System password Password that you must enter to log on to your system.

Setup password Password that you must enter to access and make changes to the

BIOS settings of your computer.

You can create a system password and a setup password to secure your computer.

CAUTION: The password features provide a basic level of security for the data on your computer.

CAUTION: Anyone can access the data stored on your computer if it is not locked and left unattended.

NOTE: System and setup password feature is disabled.

Assigning a system setup password

Prerequisites

You can assign a new System or Admin Password only when the status is in Not Set.

About this task

To enter the system setup, press F2 immediately after a power-on or reboot.

Steps

1. In the System BIOS or System Setup screen, select Security and press Enter.

The Security screen is displayed.

2. Select System/Admin 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.

●Only lower case letters are valid, upper case letters are not allowed.

●Only the following special characters are allowed: space, (”), (+), (,), (-), (.), (/), (;), ([), (\), (]), (`).

3. Type the system password that you entered earlier in the Confirm new password field and click OK.

4. Press Esc and a message prompts you to save the changes.

5. Press Y to save the changes.

The computer reboots.

Deleting or changing an existing system setup password

Prerequisites

Ensure that the Password Status is Unlocked (in the System Setup) before attempting to delete or change the existing System and

Setup password. You cannot delete or change an existing System or Setup password, if the Password Status is Locked.

About this task

To enter the System Setup, press F2 immediately after a power-on or reboot.

Steps

1. In the System BIOS or System Setup screen, select System Security and press Enter.

The System Security screen is displayed.

2. In the System Security screen, verify that Password Status is Unlocked.

3. Select System Password, alter or delete the existing system password and press Enter or Tab.

4. Select Setup Password, alter or delete the existing setup password and press Enter or Tab.

NOTE: If you change the System and/or Setup password, re enter the new password when prompted. If you delete the

System and Setup password, confirm the deletion when prompted.

5. Press Esc and a message prompts you to save the changes.

6. Press Y to save the changes and exit from System Setup.

The computer restarts.

Clearing CMOS settings

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the CMOS jumper and provide a visual representation of the clearing CMOS

procedure.

Steps

1. Disconnect the system-board power cable from the system board.

2. Remove the jumper plug from pins 217 and replace it on pins 216 (P216).

3. Wait for 5 seconds.

4. Remove the jumper plug from pins 216 and replace it on pins 217.

5. Connect the system-board power cable to the system board.

Next steps

1. Remove the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

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Clearing forgotten password

Prerequisites

1. Follow the procedure in Before working inside your computer.

2. Remove the left-side cover.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the password jumper and provide a visual representation of the clearing forgotten

password.

Steps

1. Remove the jumper plug from pins 215.

2. Turn on your computer and wait until the operating system is completely loaded.

3. Shut down your computer.

4. Replace the jumper plug on pins 215.

Next steps

1. Remove the left-side cover.

2. Follow the procedure in After working inside your computer.

Updating the BIOS

Updating the BIOS in Windows

Steps

1. Go to www.dell.com/support.

2. Click Product support. In the Search support box, enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Search.

NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, use the SupportAssist feature to automatically identify your computer. You can

also use the product ID or manually browse for your computer model.

3. Click Drivers & Downloads. Expand Find drivers.

4. Select the operating system installed on your computer.

5. In the Category drop-down list, select BIOS.

6. Select the latest version of BIOS, and click Download to download the BIOS file for your computer.

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7. After the download is complete, browse the folder where you saved the BIOS update file.

8. Double-click the BIOS update file icon and follow the on-screen instructions.

For more information, see knowledge base article 000124211 at www.dell.com/support.

Updating the BIOS using the USB drive in Windows

Steps

1. Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 6 in Updating the BIOS in Windows to download the latest BIOS setup program file.

2. Create a bootable USB drive. For more information, see the knowledge base article 000145519 at www.dell.com/support.

3. Copy the BIOS setup program file to the bootable USB drive.

4. Connect the bootable USB drive to the computer that needs the BIOS update.

5. Restart the computer and press F12 .

6. Select the USB drive from the One Time Boot Menu.

7. Type the BIOS setup program filename and press Enter.

The BIOS Update Utility appears.

8. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the BIOS update.

Updating the BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu

Update your computer BIOS using the BIOS update.exe file that is copied to a FAT32 USB drive and booting from the F12

One-Time boot menu.

About this task

BIOS Update

You can run the BIOS update file from Windows using a bootable USB drive or you can also update the BIOS from the F12 One-Time

boot menu on the computer.

Most of the Dell computers built after 2012 have this capability, and you can confirm by booting your computer to the F12 One-Time

Boot Menu to see if BIOS FLASH UPDATE is listed as a boot option for your computer. If the option is listed, then the BIOS supports

this BIOS update option.

NOTE: Only computers with BIOS Flash Update option in the F12 One-Time boot menu can use this function.

Updating from the One-Time boot menu

To update your BIOS from the F12 One-Time boot menu, you need the following:

●USB drive formatted to the FAT32 file system (key does not have to be bootable)

●BIOS executable file that you downloaded from the Dell Support website and copied to the root of the USB drive

●AC power adapter that is connected to the computer

●Functional computer battery to flash the BIOS

Perform the following steps to perform the BIOS update flash process from the F12 menu:

CAUTION: Do not turn off the computer during the BIOS update process. The computer may not boot if you turn off your

computer.

Steps

1. From a turn off state, insert the USB drive where you copied the flash into a USB port of the computer.

2. Turn on the computer and press F12 to access the One-Time Boot Menu, select BIOS Update using the mouse or arrow keys then

press Enter.

The flash BIOS menu is displayed.

3. Click Flash from file.

4. Select external USB device.

5. Select the file and double-click the flash target file, and then click Submit.

6. Click Update BIOS. The computer restarts to flash the BIOS.

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7. The computer will restart after the BIOS update is completed.

System setup options

NOTE: Depending on your computer and its installed devices, the items listed in this section may or may not appear.

Table 5. System setup options—Main menu

Main

System Time Displays the current time in hh:mm:ss format.

System Date Displays the current date in mm/dd/yyyy format.

BIOS Information

BIOS Version Displays the BIOS version number.

Product Information

Product Name Displays the product name. Default: Alienware Aurora R11

Service Tag Displays the service tag of your computer.

Asset Tag Displays the asset tag of your computer.

CPU Information

CPU Type Displays the processor type

CPU Speed Displays the speed of the processor.

CPU ID Displays the processor identification code.

Cache L1 Displays the processor L1 cache size.

Cache L2 Displays the processor L2 cache size.

Cache L3 Displays the processor L3 cache size.

Memory Information

System Memory Displays the total computer memory installed.

Memory Speed Displays the memory speed.

Table 6. System setup options—Advanced menu

Advanced

Advanced BIOS Features

SATA Operation Allows you to configure the operating mode of the integrated

SATA hard drive controller.

Power Options

Numlock Key Allows you to set the status of the Num Lock key during boot to

On or Off.

Wake Up by Integrated LAN Allow the computer to be powered on by special LAN signals.

AC Recovery Sets what action the computer takes when power is restored.

Deep Sleep Control Allows you to define the controls when Deep Sleep is enabled.

USB Wake Support (S3) Allows you to enable the USB devices to wake the system from

Standby.

USB PowerShare (S4/S5) Allows you to charge external devices.

USB PowerShare Wake Support (S4/S5) Allows you to enable front the USB devices to wake the system

from S4/S5.

Auto Power On

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Table 6. System setup options—Advanced menu (continued)

Advanced

Auto Power On Mode Allows you to set the computer to turn on automatically every

day or on a preselected date. This option can be configured

only if the Auto Power On mode is set to Enabled Everyday or

Selected Day.

Auto Power On Date Allows you to set the date on which the computer must turn

on automatically. This option can be configured only if the Auto

Power On mode is set to Enabled 1 to 31.

Auto Power On Time Allows you to set the time at which the computer must turn on

automatically. This option can be configured only if the Auto

Power On mode is set to Enabled hh:mm:ss.

Numlock Key Allows you to set the status of the Num Lock key during boot to

On or Off.

Performance Options

Overclocking Feature

Core Over Clocking Level Allows you enable or disable the OC level1/level2 setting and

adjust the processor flex ratio and voltage in the Customization

mode.

Computrace Allows you to enable or disable the Computrace service using the

Absolute software.

Core Ratio Limit Override Allows you to set the core ratio limit.

Single Core Allows you to select single core or multiple cores.

Core Voltage Mode Allows you to select between adaptive and override voltage

modes.

Core Voltage Offset Allows you to set the override value of core voltage.

Long Duration PWR Limit Allows you to set the turbo mode power limit.

Short Duration PWR Limit Options Allows you to set the turbo mode power limit.

XMP Memory Allows you to set the XMP memory.

Table 7. System setup options—Security menu

Security

Admin Password Status Displays whether the admin password is set.

System Password Status Displays whether the system password is set.

HDD Password Status Displays if the hard drive password is set.

Admin Password Displays the admin password.

System Password Displays the system password.

HDD Password Displays the hard drive password.

Firmware TPM Displays the firmware TPM.

Table 8. System setup options—Boot menu

Boot

Boot List Option Displays the available boot devices.

File Browser Add Boot Option Allows you to set the boot path in the boot option list.

File Browser Del Boot Option Allows you to delete the boot path in the boot option list.

Enable USB Boot Support Allows you to enable or disable the USB Boot control.

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Table 8. System setup options—Boot menu (continued)

Boot

Boot Option Priorities Displays the available boot devices.

Boot Option #1 Displays the first boot device. Default: UEFI: Windows Boot

Manager.

Boot Option #2 Displays the second boot device. Default: Onboard NIC

Device.

Boot Option #3 Displays the third boot device. Default: Onboard NIC

Device.

Table 9. 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.

Restore Defaults Allows you to load default values for all system setup

options.

Discard Changes Allows you to exit your changes.

Save Changes Allows you to save your changes.

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Troubleshooting

SupportAssist diagnostics

About this task

The SupportAssist diagnostics (previously known as ePSA diagnostics) performs a complete check of your hardware. The

SupportAssist diagnostics is embedded in the BIOS and is launched by it internally. The SupportAssist diagnostics provides a set

of options for particular devices or device groups. It allows you to:

●Run tests automatically or in an interactive mode.

●Repeat tests

●Display or save test results

●Run thorough tests to introduce additional test options and provide extra information about the failed device(s)

●View status messages that indicate if the tests are completed successfully

●View error messages that indicate if problems were encountered during the test

NOTE: Some tests are meant for specific devices and require user interaction. Ensure that you are present in front of the

computer when the diagnostic tests are performed.

For more information, see SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance Check.

System diagnostic lights

The computer POST (Power On Self Test) ensures that it meets the basic computer requirements and the hardware is working

appropriately before the boot process begins. If the computer passes the POST, the computer continues to start in a normal mode.

However, if the computer fails the POST, the computer emits a series of LED codes in amber color during the start-up.

The following table shows different light patterns and what they indicate.

Table 10. Diagnostics

Number of Power LED flashes Problem description

1System board: BIOS and ROM failure

2No memory or RAM detected, system board, PSU

3System board or chipset error

4Memory or RAM failure

5CMOS battery failure

6Video card or chip failure

7CPU failure

3,6 BIOS recovery image not found

3,7 BIOS recovery image found but invalid

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Built-in self-test (BIST)

M-BIST

M-BIST (Built In Self-Test) is the system board's built-in self-test diagnostics tool that improves the diagnostics accuracy of system

board embedded controller (EC) failures.

NOTE: M-BIST can be manually initiated before POST (Power On Self Test).

How to run M-BIST

NOTE: M-BIST must be initiated on the system from a power-off state either connected to AC power or with battery only.

1. Press and hold both the M key on the keyboard and the power button to initiate M-BIST.

2. With both the M key and the power button held down, the battery indicator LED may exhibit two states:

a. OFF: No fault detected with the system board

b. AMBER: Indicates a problem with the system board

3. If there is a failure with the system board, the battery status LED will flash one of the following error codes for 30 seconds:

Table 11. LED error codes

Blinking Pattern Possible Problem

Amber White

2 1 CPU Failure

2 8 LCD Power Rail Failure

1 1 TPM Detection Failure

2 4 Unrecoverable SPI Failure

4. If there is no failure with the system board, the LCD will cycle through the solid color screens described in the LCD-BIST section

for 30 seconds and then power off.

Recovering the operating system

When your computer is unable to boot to the operating system even after repeated attempts, it automatically starts Dell

SupportAssist OS Recovery.

Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery is a standalone tool that is preinstalled in all Dell computers installed with Windows operating

system. It consists of tools to diagnose and troubleshoot issues that may occur before your computer boots to the operating system. It

enables you to diagnose hardware issues, repair your computer, back up your files, or restore your computer to its factory state.

You can also download it from the Dell Support website to troubleshoot and fix your computer when it fails to boot into their primary

operating system due to software or hardware failures.

For more information about the Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery, see Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery User's Guide at www.dell.com/

serviceabilitytools. Click SupportAssist and then, click SupportAssist OS Recovery.

WiFi power cycle

About this task

If your computer is unable to access the internet due to WiFi connectivity issues a WiFi power cycle procedure may be performed.

The following procedure provides the instructions on how to conduct a WiFi power cycle:

NOTE: Some ISPs (Internet Service Providers) provide a modem/router combo device.

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Steps

1. Turn off your computer.

2. Turn off the modem.

3. Turn off the wireless router.

4. Wait for 30 seconds.

5. Turn on the wireless router.

6. Turn on the modem.

7. Turn on your computer.

Flea power release

About this task

Flea power is the residual static electricity that remains on the computer even after it has been powered off and the battery has been

removed. The following procedure provides the instructions on how to conduct flea power release:

Steps

1. Turn off your computer.

2. Disconnect the power adapter from your computer.

3. Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds to drain the flea power.

4. Connect the power adapter to your computer.

5. Turn on your computer.

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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 12. Alienware products and online self-help resources

Self-help resources Resource location

Information about Alienware products and services www.alienware.com

My Dell app

Tips

Contact Support In Windows search, type Contact Support, and press Enter.

Online help for operating system www.dell.com/support/windows

Access top solutions, diagnostics, drivers and downloads, and

learn more about your computer through videos, manuals and

documents.

Your Alienware computer is uniquely identified by a Service Tag

or Express Service Code. To view relevant support resources for

your Dell computer, enter the Service Tag or Express Service

Code at www.dell.com/support.

For more information on how to find the Service Tag for your

computer, see Locate the Service Tag on your computer.

VR Support www.dell.com/VRsupport

Videos providing step-by-step instructions to service your

computer

www.youtube.com/alienwareservices

Contacting Alienware

To contact Alienware for sales, technical support, or customer service issues, see www.alienware.com.

NOTE: Availability varies by country/region and product, and some services may not be available in your country/region.

NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information about your purchase invoice, packing

slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.

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Table of Contents

Alienware Aurora R12 User Manual

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