Alienware x15 R1 User Manual

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Alienware x15 R1 Manual

Alienware x15 R1

Service Manual

Regulatory Model: P111F

Regulatory Type: P111F001

October 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..............................................................................................5

Before working inside your computer.................................................................................................................................5

Safety instructions.................................................................................................................................................................5

Electrostatic discharge—ESD protection............................................................................................................................6

ESD field service kit ............................................................................................................................................................ 6

Transporting sensitive components......................................................................................................................................7

After working inside your computer....................................................................................................................................7

Chapter 2: Removing and installing components....................................................................................9

Recommended tools.............................................................................................................................................................9

Screw list............................................................................................................................................................................... 9

Major components of Alienware x15 R1............................................................................................................................ 10

Disassembly and reassembly ..............................................................................................................................................12

Base cover......................................................................................................................................................................12

Battery............................................................................................................................................................................16

Battery cable..................................................................................................................................................................18

Wireless card.................................................................................................................................................................20

Solid-state drive............................................................................................................................................................23

Solid-state drive bracket.............................................................................................................................................. 26

Fans................................................................................................................................................................................28

Rear-I/O cover............................................................................................................................................................. 32

Power-adapter port......................................................................................................................................................34

Headset port................................................................................................................................................................. 36

Display assembly........................................................................................................................................................... 39

Speakers........................................................................................................................................................................ 43

Touchpad.......................................................................................................................................................................44

Keyboard-controller board.......................................................................................................................................... 47

System board................................................................................................................................................................ 49

Fan and heat-sink assembly..........................................................................................................................................55

I/O board......................................................................................................................................................................58

Power button................................................................................................................................................................ 59

Palm-rest and antenna assembly...................................................................................................................................61

Chapter 3: Drivers and downloads........................................................................................................64

Chapter 4: System setup........................................................................................................................65

Entering BIOS setup program........................................................................................................................................... 65

Navigation keys..................................................................................................................................................................65

Boot Sequence...................................................................................................................................................................65

System setup options......................................................................................................................................................... 66

System and setup password...............................................................................................................................................69

Assigning a system setup password..............................................................................................................................69

Deleting or changing an existing system setup password.......................................................................................... 70

Clearing CMOS settings...............................................................................................................................................70

Clearing BIOS (System Setup) and System passwords............................................................................................... 70

Updating the BIOS.............................................................................................................................................................70

Updating the BIOS in Windows...................................................................................................................................70

Updating the BIOS using the USB drive in Windows..................................................................................................71

Chapter 5: Troubleshooting................................................................................................................... 72

Handling swollen Lithium-ion batteries............................................................................................................................ 72

Locate the Service Tag or Express Service Code of your Dell computer ................................................................... 72

System-diagnostic lights.................................................................................................................................................... 72

SupportAssist diagnostics...................................................................................................................................................73

Recovering the operating system...................................................................................................................................... 74

WiFi power cycle................................................................................................................................................................74

Drain residual flea power (perform hard reset)................................................................................................................ 74

Chapter 6: Getting help and contacting Alienware............................................................................. 76

Working inside your computer

Before working inside your computer

About this task

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

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.

CAUTION: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug the cable from

the network device.

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

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.

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.

Recommended tools

The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

●Phillips screwdriver #0

●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

Base cover Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2.5x7 4

Base cover Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2.5x7 (Captive

screw)

Battery Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2x4 4

Wireless-card bracket Wireless card and palm-

rest and keyboard

assembly

M2x3 1

Solid-state drive thermal

shield

Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2x3 1

Solid-state drive bracket Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2x4 1

Fan Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2x4 6

Rear I/O cover Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2.5x9 2

Power-adapter port

bracket

Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2.5x3.5 2

Table 1. Screw list (continued)

Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screw image

Display assembly Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2.5x3.5 6

Keyboard-controller

board bracket

Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2x1.9 2

Touchpad bracket Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2x1.9 2

Touchpad Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2x1.9 2

Touchpad Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M1.2x1.5 5

Keyboard-controller

board

Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M1.6x1.6 2

System board Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2x4 5

Fan and heat-sink

assembly

System board M2x3 9

I/O-board Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M1.6x1.8 4

Power-button bracket Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M1.2x1.5 2

Power-button bracket Palm-rest and keyboard

assembly

M2x1.9 2

Major components of Alienware x15 R1

The following image shows the major components of Alienware x15 R1.

1. Rear I/O-cover

2. Tron-light cable

3. Base cover

4. I/O board

5. Power-adapter port

6. Right fan

7. System board

8. Battery

9. Touchpad

10.Right speaker

11. Display assembly

12. Left speaker

13. Keyboard-controller board

14. Wireless card

15.solid-state drive

16.Left fan

17. Fan and heat-sink assembly

18.Headset port

19.Power button

NOTE: Dell provides a list of components and their part numbers for the original computer configuration purchased. These parts

are available according to warranty coverages purchased by the customer. Contact your Dell sales representative for purchase

options.

Disassembly and reassembly

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

Base cover

Removing the base cover

Prerequisites

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

About this task

NOTE: Before removing the base cover, ensure that there is no micro-SD card that is installed in the micro-SD card slot on your

computer.

The following image(s) indicate the location of the base cover and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the four screws (M2.5x7) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Loosen the two captive screws (M2.5x7) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Using a plastic scribe, pry the base cover from the gap created after loosening the captive screws in the bottom left or right and

continue to work on the sides to open the base cover.

4. Lift and slide the base cover off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

5. Disconnect the battery cable from the system board.

6. Press and hold the power button for 20 seconds to ground the computer and drain the flea power.

Installing the base cover

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the base cover and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Connect the battery cable to the system board and route the cable through the routing guides on the fan.

2. Slide the tabs on the top of the base cover under the rear I/O-cover and snap the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard

assembly.

3. Tighten the two captive screws (M2.5x7) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

4. Replace the four screws (M2.5x7) that secure the base cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Next steps

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

Battery

Lithium-ion battery precautions

CAUTION:

●Exercise caution when handling Lithium-ion batteries.

●Discharge the battery completely before removing it. Disconnect the AC power adapter from the system and operate

the computer solely on battery power—the battery is fully discharged when the computer no longer turns on when the

power button is pressed.

●Do not crush, drop, mutilate, or penetrate the battery with foreign objects.

●Do not expose the battery to high temperatures, or disassemble battery packs and cells.

●Do not apply pressure to the surface of the battery.

●Do not bend the battery.

●Do not use tools of any kind to pry on or against the battery.

●Ensure any screws during the servicing of this product are not lost or misplaced, to prevent accidental puncture or

damage to the battery and other system components.

●If the battery gets stuck inside your computer as a result of swelling, do not try to release it as puncturing, bending, or

crushing a lithium-ion battery can be dangerous. In such an instance, contact Dell technical support for assistance. See

www.dell.com/contactdell.

●Always purchase genuine batteries from www.dell.com or authorized Dell partners and resellers.

●Swollen batteries should not be used and should be replaced and disposed properly. For guidelines on how to handle

and replace swollen Lithium-ion batteries, see Handling swollen Lithium-ion batteries.

Removing the battery

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

About this task

CAUTION: This computer is designed without an RTC coin cell-battery. After a service incident where the computer

battery is disconnected, when the battery is fully discharged, or when the computer is reassembled and turned on, an

RTC reset cycle will occur. When an RTC Reset cycle occurs, the computer turns on and off three times. An "Invalid

Configuration" error message is displayed prompting you to enter the BIOS and configure the date and time. The computer

starts functioning normally after setting the date and time.

CAUTION: Removing the 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 battery.

The following image(s) indicate the location of the battery and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Disconnect the battery cable from the system board and remove the battery cable from the routing guides on the fan (applicable

only if not disconnected earlier).

2. Remove the four screws (M2x4) that secure the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Lift the battery off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the battery

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the battery and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Using the alignment posts, place the battery on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Align the screw holes on the battery with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Replace the four screws (M2x4) that secure the battery to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

4. Route the battery cable through the routing guides on the fan and connect the battery cable to the system board.

Next steps

1. Install the base cover.

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

Battery cable

Lithium-ion battery precautions

CAUTION:

●Exercise caution when handling Lithium-ion batteries.

●Discharge the battery completely before removing it. Disconnect the AC power adapter from the system and operate

the computer solely on battery power—the battery is fully discharged when the computer no longer turns on when the

power button is pressed.

●Do not crush, drop, mutilate, or penetrate the battery with foreign objects.

●Do not expose the battery to high temperatures, or disassemble battery packs and cells.

●Do not apply pressure to the surface of the battery.

●Do not bend the battery.

●Do not use tools of any kind to pry on or against the battery.

●Ensure any screws during the servicing of this product are not lost or misplaced, to prevent accidental puncture or

damage to the battery and other system components.

●If the battery gets stuck inside your computer as a result of swelling, do not try to release it as puncturing, bending, or

crushing a lithium-ion battery can be dangerous. In such an instance, contact Dell technical support for assistance. See

www.dell.com/contactdell.

●Always purchase genuine batteries from www.dell.com or authorized Dell partners and resellers.

●Swollen batteries should not be used and should be replaced and disposed properly. For guidelines on how to handle

and replace swollen Lithium-ion batteries, see Handling swollen Lithium-ion batteries.

Removing the battery cable

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the battery.

NOTE: If battery is disconnected from system board for service, then there is a delay during boot as the computer undergoes

RTC battery reset.

About this task

The following images indicate the location of the battery cable and provide a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Turn the battery over and peel the battery cable from the battery.

2. Disconnect the battery cable from the connector on the battery.

3. Lift the battery cable off the battery.

Installing the battery cable

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image indicates the location of the battery cable and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align and adhere the battery cable to the battery.

2. Connect the battery cable to the connector on the battery.

Next steps

1. Install the battery.

2. Install the base cover.

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

Wireless card

Removing the wireless card

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the wireless card and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the wireless card and palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Slide and remove 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 process.

About this task

The following image(s) 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 that is supported by your computer.

Table 2. Antenna-cable color scheme

Connectors on the

wireless card Antenna-cable color Silkscreen marking

Main White MAIN △ (white triangle)

Auxiliary Black AUX ▲ (black triangle)

2. Align and 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 and insert the wireless card at an angle into the

wireless-card slot.

4. Align the screw hole on the wireless-card bracket with the screw hole on the wireless card and palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

5. Replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the wireless card and the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Install the base cover.

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

Solid-state drive

Removing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

About this task

NOTE: The following procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2230 solid-state drive.

NOTE: The M.2 card installed on M.2 slot will depend on the configuration ordered. Supported card configurations:

●M.2 2230 solid-state drive + 2230 mounting bracket

●M.2 2280 solid-state drive

The following image(s) indicate the location of the M.2 2230 solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the removal

procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the solid-state drive thermal shield to the solid-state drive and palm-rest and keyboard

assembly.

2. Lift and remove the solid-state thermal shield off the solid-state drive.

3. Slide and remove the solid-state drive from the solid-state drive slot.

4. Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the solid-state drive mounting bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

5. Lift the solid-state drive mounting bracket off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the M.2 2230 solid-state drive

Prerequisites

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

About this task

NOTE: The following procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2230 solid-state drive.

NOTE: The M.2 card installed on M.2 slot will depend on the configuration ordered. Supported card configurations:

●M.2 2230 solid-state drive + 2230 mounting bracket

●M.2 2280 solid-state drive

The following image(s) indicate the location of the M.2 2230 solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Align and place the solid-state drive mounting bracket on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the solid-state drive mounting bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

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

4. Slide the solid-state drive into the solid-state drive slot.

5. Slide the solid-state drive thermal shield into the solid-state drive slot.

6. Align the screw hole on the solid-state drive thermal shield with the screw hole on the solid-state drive and palm-rest and

keyboard assembly.

7. Replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the M.2 2230 solid-state drive thermal shield to the solid-state drive and palm-rest and

keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Install the base cover.

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

Removing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

About this task

NOTE: The following procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2280 solid-state drive.

NOTE: The M.2 card installed on M.2 slot will depend on the configuration ordered. Supported card configurations:

●M.2 2230 solid-state drive + 2230 mounting bracket

●M.2 2280 solid-state drive

The following image(s) indicate the location of the M.2 2280 solid-state drive and provides a visual representation of the removal

procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the solid-state drive thermal shield to the solid-state drive and palm-rest and keyboard

assembly.

2. Lift and remove the solid-state thermal shield off the solid-state drive.

3. Slide and remove the solid-state drive from the solid-state drive slot.

Installing the M.2 2280 solid-state drive

Prerequisites

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

About this task

NOTE: The following procedure applies only to computers shipped with an M.2 2280 solid-state drive.

NOTE: The M.2 card installed on M.2 slot will depend on the configuration ordered. Supported card configurations:

●M.2 2230 solid-state drive + 2230 mounting bracket

●M.2 2280 solid-state drive

The following image(s) 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. Slide the solid-state drive into the solid-state drive slot.

3. Slide the solid-state drive thermal shield into the solid-state drive slot.

4. Align the screw hole on the solid-state drive thermal shield with the screw hole on the solid-state drive and palm-rest and

keyboard assembly.

5. Replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the M.2 2280 solid-state drive thermal shield to the solid-state drive and palm-rest and

keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Install the base cover.

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

Solid-state drive bracket

Removing the solid-state drive bracket

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the solid-state drive bracket and provides a visual representation of the removal

procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the screw (M2x4) that secures the solid-state drive bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Lift the solid-state drive bracket off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the solid-state drive bracket

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the solid-state drive bracket and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Align the screw hole on the solid-state drive bracket with the screw hole on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Replace the screw (M2x4) that secures the solid-state drive bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

2. Install the base cover.

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

Fans

Removing the fans

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the fans and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the three screws (M2x4) that secure the right fan to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Remove the speaker cable and antenna cable from the routing guides on the right fan.

3. Disconnect the right fan cable from the system board.

4. Lift the right fan off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

5. Remove the three screws (M2x4) that secure the left fan to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

6. Remove the speaker cable and the antenna cable from the routing guides on the left fan.

7. Disconnect the left fan cable from the system board.

8. Peel the left fan cable from the system board and lift the left fan off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the fans

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the fans and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align and place the left fan into the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Adhere the left fan cable to the system board and connect the left fan cable to the system board.

3. Replace the three screws (M2x4) that secure the left fan to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

4. Route the speaker cable and the antenna cable through the routing guides on the left fan.

5. Align and place the right fan into the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

6. Connect the right fan cable to the system board.

7. Replace the three screws (M2x4) that secure the right fan to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

8. Route the speaker cable and antenna cable through the routing guides on the right fan.

Next steps

1. Install the base cover.

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

Rear-I/O cover

Removing the rear I/O-cover

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the rear I/O-cover and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the two screws (M2.5x9) that secure the rear I/O-cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Open the latches and disconnect the left and right Tron-light cables from the system board.

NOTE: To prevent damaging your computer, ensure that the Tron-light cable has been disconnected from the system board

before removing the rear I/O-cover.

3. Firmly grasp the sides of your computer with both hands and push it outwards to remove the rear I/O-cover off the palm-rest and

keyboard assembly.

Installing the rear I/O-cover

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the rear I/O-cover and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

CAUTION: To avoid damaging your computer, ensure that the Tron-light cable is not pinched when sliding the rear

I/O-cover into palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Steps

1. With the correct orientation, slide the rear I/O-cover into the palm-rest and keyboard assembly, and snap it into place.

2. Slide the left and right Tron-light cables into their respective connectors on the system board and close the latches to secure the

cables.

3. Replace the two screws (M2.5x9) that secure the rear I/O-cover to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Install the base cover.

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

Power-adapter port

Removing the power-adapter port

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the rear I/O-cover.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the power-adapter port and provides a visual representation of the removal

procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the two screws (M2.5x3.5) that secure the power-adapter port bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Lift the power-adapter port bracket off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Disconnect the power-adapter port cable from the system board and then remove it from the routing guides on the fan and

heat-sink assembly.

4. Peel off the power-adapter port cable from the fan and heat-sink assembly.

5. Lift the power-adapter port along with its cable off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the power-adapter port

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the power-adapter port and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Align and place the power-adapter port into the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Adhere the power-adapter port cable to the fan and heat-sink assembly.

3. Connect the power-adapter port cable to the system board.

4. Route the power-adapter port cable through the routing guides on the fan and heat-sink assembly.

5. Place the power-adapter port bracket on the power-adapter port.

6. Align the screw holes on the power-adapter port bracket with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

7. Replace the two screws (M2.5x3.5) that secure the power-adapter port bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Install the rear I/O-cover.

2. Install the base cover.

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

Headset port

Removing the headset port

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the rear I/O-cover.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the headset port and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Peel the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the system board.

2. Open the latch and disconnect the I/O-board cable from the system board.

3. Remove the I/O-board cable from the routing guides on the fan and heat-sink assembly.

4. Disconnect the headset-port cable from the system board.

5. Remove the headset-port cable from the routing guides on the fan and heat-sink assembly.

6. Peel off the headset-port cable from the fan and heat-sink assembly.

7. Lift the headset port along with its cable from the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the headset port

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the headset port and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Slide the headset port into the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Align the headset port into the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Adhere the headset-port cable to the fan and heat-sink assembly.

4. Route the headset-port cable through the routing guides on the fan and heat-sink assembly.

5. Connect the headset-port cable to the system board.

6. Route the I/O-board cable through the routing guides on the fan and heat-sink assembly.

7. Slide the I/O-board cable into the connector on the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.

8. Adhere the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the system board.

Next steps

1. Install the rear I/O-cover.

2. Install the base cover.

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

Display assembly

Removing the display assembly

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the rear I/O-cover.

About this task

NOTE: The display assembly is a Hinge-Up Display (HUD) and cannot be further disassembled.

The following image(s) indicate the location of the display assembly and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Peel the tape that secures the camera cable to the system board and disconnect the camera cable from the system board.

2. Disconnect the Alien head LED cable from the system board and peel the Alien head LED cable from the system board.

3. Peel the tape that secures the display cable to the system board.

4. Open the latch and disconnect the display cable from the system board and peel the display cable off the system board.

5. Turn the computer over.

6. Remove the six screws (M2.5x3.5) that secure the display assembly to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

7. Remove the display cable from the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and remove it from the routing guides on the

palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

8. Remove the camera cable and the Alien head LED cable from the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and remove it

from the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

9. Slide the display assembly off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

10.After performing the steps above, you are left with the display assembly.

Installing the display assembly

Prerequisites

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

About this task

CAUTION: Place the computer on a soft and clean surface to avoid scratching the display.

The following image(s) indicate the location of the display assembly and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Gently slide and place the display assembly on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Align the screw holes on the display assembly with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Replace the six screws (M2.5x3.5) that secure the display assembly to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

4. Route the camera cable and the Alien head LED cable through the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and

route it through the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

5. Route the display cable through the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and route it through the slot on the

palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

6. Turn the computer over.

7. Adhere the display cable to the system board.

8. Connect the display cable to the connector on the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.

9. Adhere the tape that secures the display cable to the system board.

10.Adhere the Alien head LED cable to the system board and connect the Alien head LED cable to the system board.

11. Connect the camera cable to the system board and adhere the tape that secures the camera cable to the system board.

Next steps

1. Install the rear I/O-cover.

2. Install the base cover.

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

Speakers

Removing the speakers

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the battery.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the speakers and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.

2. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard-controller board cable from the system board.

3. Peel the tape that secures the speaker cable to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

4. Remove the speaker cables from the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

5. Lift the right and left speaker, along with its cable, off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the speakers

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the speakers and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

NOTE: If the rubber grommets are pushed out of the speakers when removing the speakers, push them back in place before

replacing the speakers.

Steps

1. Using the alignment posts, place the left and right speakers into their slots on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Route the speaker cable through the routing guides on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Adhere the tape that secures the speaker cable to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

4. Connect the keyboard-controller board cable to the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.

5. Connect the speaker cable to the system board.

Next steps

1. Install the battery.

2. Install the base cover.

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

Touchpad

Removing the touchpad

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the battery.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the touchpad and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the two screws (M2x1.9) that secure the keyboard-controller board bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Peel the tape that secures the keyboard-controller board bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Lift the keyboard-controller board bracket off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

4. Remove the two screws (M2x1.9) that secure the touchpad bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

5. Lift the touchpad bracket off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

6. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard-controller board cable from keyboard-controller board.

7. Fold up the keyboard-controller board cable.

8. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard cable from the keyboard-controller board.

9. Fold up the keyboard cable.

10.Peel the tape that secures the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

11. Open the latch and disconnect the touchpad-light cable from the touchpad.

NOTE: Your computer may be shipped with an touchpad-light cable depending on the configuration you have ordered.

12. Open the latch and disconnect the touchpad cable from the touchpad.

13. Fold up the touchpad cable.

14. Remove the two screws (M2x1.9) that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

15.Remove the five screws (M1.2x1.5) that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

16.Lift the touchpad off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the touchpad

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the touchpad and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align and place the touchpad into the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

NOTE: Turn the computer over and open the display. Ensure that the touchpad is equally aligned along all four sides.

2. Replace the two screws (M2x1.9) that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Replace the five screws (M1.2x1.5) that secure the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

4. Fold down the touchpad cable.

5. Slide the touchpad cable into its connector on the touchpad and close the latch to secure the cable.

6. Slide the touchpad-light cable into its connector on the touchpad and close the latch to secure the cable.

NOTE: Your computer may be shipped with an touchpad-light cable depending on the configuration you have ordered.

7. Fold down the keyboard cable.

8. Slide the keyboard cable into the connector on the keyboard-controller board and close the latch to secure the cable.

9. Fold down the keyboard-controller board cable.

10.Slide the keyboard-controller board cable into the connector on the keyboard-controller board and close the latch to secure the

cable.

11. Adhere the tape that secures the touchpad to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

12. Align the screw holes on the touchpad bracket to the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

13. Replace the two screws (M2x1.9) that secure the touchpad bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

14. Align the screw holes on the keyboard-controller board bracket to the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

15.Replace the two screws (M2x1.9) that secure the keyboard-controller board bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

16.Adhere the tape that secures the keyboard-controller board bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Install the battery.

2. Install the base cover.

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

Keyboard-controller board

Removing the keyboard-controller board

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the battery.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the keyboard-controller board and provides a visual representation of the removal

procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the two screws (M2x1.9) that secure the keyboard-controller board bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Peel the tape that secures the keyboard-controller board bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Lift the keyboard-controller board bracket off the keyboard-controller board.

4. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard-backlight cable from the keyboard-controller board.

5. Open the latch and disconnect the touchpad-light cable from the keyboard-controller board.

NOTE: Your computer may be shipped with an touchpad-light cable depending on the configuration you have ordered.

6. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard-controller board cable from the keyboard-controller board.

7. Open the latch and disconnect the touchpad cable from the keyboard-controller board.

8. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard cable from the keyboard-controller board.

9. Remove the two screws (M1.6x1.6) that secure the keyboard-controller board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

10.Lift the keyboard-controller board off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the keyboard-controller board

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the keyboard-controller board and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Using the alignment posts, place the keyboard-controller board into the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Replace the two screws (M1.6x1.6) that secure the keyboard-controller board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Slide the keyboard cable into the connector on the keyboard-controller board and close the latch to secure the cable.

4. Slide the touchpad cable into the connector on the keyboard-controller board and close the latch to secure the cable.

5. Slide the keyboard-controller board cable into the connector on the keyboard-controller board and close the latch to secure the

cable.

6. Slide the touchpad-light cable into the connector on the keyboard-controller board and close the latch to secure the cable.

NOTE: Your computer may be shipped with an touchpad-light cable depending on the configuration you have ordered.

7. Slide the keyboard-backlight cable into the connector on the keyboard-controller board and close the latch to secure the cable.

8. Align the screw holes on the keyboard-controller board bracket with the screw holes on the keyboard-controller board and

palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

9. Replace the two screws (M2x1.9) that secures the keyboard-controller board bracket to the keyboard-controller board and

palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

10.Adhere the tape that secures the keyboard-controller board bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Install the battery.

2. Install the base cover.

3. 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.

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the battery.

4. Remove the wireless card.

5. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

6. Remove the fans.

7. Remove the rear I/O-cover.

8. Remove the solid-state drive bracket.

About this task

NOTE: When installing this component, please refer to the techsheet bundled with the service kit for computers with the

following Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) configurations:

●NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070

●NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080

The following image indicates the connectors on your system board.

1. Display cable 2. Alien head LED cable

3. Camera cable 4. Power-button cable

5. I/O-board cable 6. Headset port cable

7. Speaker cable 8. Keyboard-controller board cable

9. Power-adapter port cable

The following image(s) indicate the location of the system board and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Peel the headset port cable from the fan and heat-sink assembly.

2. Disconnect the camera cable from the system board and peel the tape that secures the camera cable to the system board.

3. Disconnect the Alien head LED cable from the system board and peel the cable from the system board.

4. Open the latch and disconnect the power-button cable from the system board.

5. Peel the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the system board.

6. Open the latch and disconnect the I/O-board cable from the system board and remove it from the routing guides on the fan and

heat-sink assembly.

7. Disconnect the headset-port cable from the system board and remove it from the routing guides on the fan and heat-sink

assembly.

8. Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.

9. Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard-controller board cable from the system board.

10.Disconnect the power-adapter port cable from the system board.

11. Remove the power-adapter port cable from the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and peel the power-adapter port cable off the

fan and heat-sink assembly.

12. Peel the tape that secures the display cable to the system board.

13. Open the latch and disconnect the display cable from the system board and peel the display cable off the system board.

14. Remove the five screws (M2x4) that secure the system-board assembly to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

15.Grab the system-board assembly from the top left and right sides of the heat sink and lift the system-board assembly off the

palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

16.Place the system-board assembly on a clean and flat surface.

17. Turn the system-board assembly over.

18.Remove the fan and heat-sink assembly.

19.Turn the system-board assembly over.

20.After performing all the above steps, you are left with the system board.

CAUTION: Do not use alcohol wipes to clean the Element 31 thermal grease from the processor chip which is

surrounded by the processor barrier sheet. The alcohol solution from the wipes will dissolve the Element 31 thermal

grease into conductive metal particles. If these conductive metal particles come into contact with the surface of the

system board, it will cause the an electrical short when the computer is powered on.

NOTE: Before returning the faulty system board. Adhere the processor (CPU) sticker over the processor (CPU) chip and

ensure that it covers the entire surface of it.

Installing the system board

Prerequisites

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

About this task

NOTE: When installing this component, please refer to the techsheet bundled with the service kit for computers with the

following Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) configurations:

●NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070

●NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080

The following image indicates the connectors on your system board.

1. Display cable 2. Alien head LED cable

3. Camera cable 4. Power-button cable

5. I/O-board cable 6. Headset port cable

7. Speaker cable 8. Keyboard-controller board cable

9. Power-adapter port cable

The following image(s) indicate the location of the system board and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Turn the system board over.

2. Install the fan and heat-sink assembly.

3. Turn the system-board assembly over and place the system-board assembly on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

NOTE: When installing the system-board assembly, align the system-board assembly to the positioning pins on the palm-rest

and keyboard assembly and the extensions of the heat sink to the top edge of the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

4. Align the screw holes on the system-board assembly with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

5. Replace the five screws (M2x4) that secure the system-board assembly to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

6. Adhere the display cable to the system board.

7. Slide the display cable into the connector on the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.

8. Adhere the tape that secures the display cable to the system board.

9. Align and place the power-adapter port cable and adhere the power-adapter port cable onto the fan and heat-sink assembly.

10.Connect the power-adapter port cable to the system board.

11. Slide the keyboard-controller board cable into the connector on the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.

12. Connect the speaker cable to the system board.

13. Connect the headset port cable to the system board and route it through the routing guides on the fan and heat-sink assembly.

14. Slide the I/O-board cable into the connector on the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.

15.Route the I/O-board cable through the routing guides on the fan and heat-sink assembly.

16.Adhere the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the system board.

17. Slide the power-button board cable into the connector on the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.

NOTE: When installing the system-board assembly, ensure that the power-button board cable is placed on top of the system

board. Overlooking the power-button board cable connection to the system board will result in no-power failure after

service.

18.Adhere the Alien head LED cable to the system board and connect the Alien head LED cable to the system board.

19.Connect the camera cable to the system board and adhere the tape that secures the camera cable to the system board.

20.Adhere the headset-port cable to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Install the solid-state drive bracket.

2. Install the rear I/O-cover.

3. Install the fans.

4. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

5. Install the wireless card.

6. Install the battery.

7. Install the base cover.

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

Fan and heat-sink assembly

Removing the fan and heat-sink assembly

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the battery.

4. Remove the wireless card.

5. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

6. Remove the fans.

7. Remove the rear I/O-cover.

8. Remove the solid-state drive bracket.

9. Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 16 in Removing the system board.

About this task

NOTE: When removing this component, please refer to the techsheet bundled with the service kit. This is only applicable for

computers with the following Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) configurations that have Element 31 grease is applied to the CPU.

●NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070

●NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080

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

it.

NOTE: 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.

The following image(s) indicate the location of the fan and heat-sink assembly and provides a visual representation of the removal

procedure.

Steps

1. Turn the system-board assembly over.

2. Disconnect the left and right fan cables from the system board.

3. In the reverse sequential order (9>8>7>6>5>4>3>2>1), remove the nine screws (M2x3) that secure the fan and heat-sink

assembly to the system board.

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

CAUTION: Do not use an alcohol wipe to clean the Element 31 thermal grease off the surface of the processor, the

alcohol solution from the wipes will dissolve the Element 31 grease into conductive metal particles. If these conductive

metal particles come into contact with the surface of the system board, it will cause the an electrical short when your

computer is powered on.

Installing the fan and heat-sink assembly

Prerequisites

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

About this task

NOTE: When installing this component, please refer to the techsheet bundled with the service kit. This is only applicable for

computers with the following Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) configurations that have Element 31 grease is applied to the CPU.

●NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070

●NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080

The following image(s) indicate the location of the fan and heat-sink assembly and provides a visual representation of the installation

procedure.

Steps

1. Align and place the fan and heat-sink assembly on the system board.

2. Align the screw holes on the fan and heat-sink assembly to the screw holes on the system board.

3. In the sequential order (1>2>3>4>5>6>7>8>9), replace the nine screws (M2x3) that secure the fan and heat-sink assembly to

the system board.

4. Connect the left and right fan cables to the system board.

Next steps

1. Follow the procedure from step 3 to step 20 in Installing the system board.

2. Install the solid-state drive bracket.

3. Install the rear I/O-cover.

4. Install the fans.

5. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

6. Install the wireless card.

7. Install the battery.

8. Install the base cover.

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

I/O board

Removing the I/O board

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the battery.

4. Remove the wireless card.

5. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

6. Remove the fans.

7. Remove the rear I/O-cover.

8. Remove the solid-state drive bracket.

9. Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 16 in Removing the system board.

NOTE: The system board can be removed and installed along with the heat sink. This simplifies the removal and installation

procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and heat sink.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the I/O board and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the four screws (M1.6x1.8) that secure the I/O board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Lift the I/O board off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the I/O board

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the I/O board and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align the screw holes on the I/O board with the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Replace the four screws (M1.6x1.8) that secure the I/O board to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Follow the procedure from step 3 to step 20 in Installing the system board.

NOTE: The system board can be removed and installed along with the heat sink. This simplifies the removal and installation

procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and heat sink.

2. Install the solid-state drive bracket.

3. Install the rear I/O-cover.

4. Install the fans.

5. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

6. Install the wireless card.

7. Install the battery.

8. Install the base cover.

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

Power button

Removing the power button

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the battery.

4. Remove the wireless card.

5. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

6. Remove the fans.

7. Remove the rear I/O-cover.

8. Remove the solid-state drive bracket.

9. Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 16 in Removing the system board.

NOTE: The system board can be removed and installed along with the heat sink. This simplifies the removal and installation

procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and heat sink.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the power button and provides a visual representation of the removal procedure.

Steps

1. Remove the two (M2x1.9) screws that secure the power-button bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Remove the two (M1.2x1.5) screws that secure the power-button bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Lift the power-button bracket off the power button.

4. Lift the power button, along with its cable, off the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the power button

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the power button and provides a visual representation of the installation procedure.

Steps

1. Align and place the power button, along with its cable, into the slot on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

2. Align the screw holes on the power-button bracket to the screw holes on the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

3. Replace the two screws (M2x1.9) that secure the power-button bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

4. Replace the two screws (M1.2x1.5) that secure the power-button bracket to the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Next steps

1. Follow the procedure from step 3 to step 20 in Installing the system board.

NOTE: The system board can be removed and installed along with the heat sink. This simplifies the removal and installation

procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and heat sink.

2. Install the solid-state drive bracket.

3. Install the rear I/O-cover.

4. Install the fans.

5. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

6. Install the wireless card.

7. Install the battery.

8. Install the base cover.

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

Palm-rest and antenna assembly

Removing the palm-rest and keyboard assembly

Prerequisites

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

2. Remove the base cover.

3. Remove the battery.

4. Remove the wireless card.

5. Remove the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

6. Remove the solid-state drive bracket.

7. Remove the fans.

8. Remove the rear I/O-cover.

9. Remove the power-adapter port.

10.Remove the headset port.

11. Remove the display assembly.

12. Remove the speakers.

13. Remove the touchpad.

14. Remove the keyboard-controller board.

15.Remove the system board.

NOTE: The system board can be removed and installed along with the heat sink. This simplifies the removal and installation

procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and heat sink.

16.Remove the I/O-board.

17. Remove the power button.

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and provides a visual representation of the

removal procedure.

Steps

After performing the pre-requisites, you are left with the palm-rest and keyboard assembly.

Installing the palm-rest and keyboard assembly

Prerequisites

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

About this task

The following image(s) indicate the location of the palm-rest and keyboard assembly and provides a visual representation of the

installation procedure.

Steps

To install the palm-rest and keyboard assembly, perform the postrequisites.

Next steps

1. Install the power button.

2. Install the I/O-board.

3. Install the system board.

NOTE: The system board can be removed and installed along with the heat sink. This simplifies the removal and installation

procedure and avoids breaking the thermal bond between the system board and heat sink.

4. Install the keyboard-controller board.

5. Install the touchpad.

6. Install the speakers.

7. Install the display assembly.

8. Install the headset port.

9. Install the power-adapter port.

10.Install the rear I/O-cover.

11. Install the fans.

12. Install the solid-state drive bracket.

13. Install the M.2 2230 solid-state drive or M.2 2280 solid-state drive, as applicable.

14. Install the wireless card.

15.Install the battery.

16.Install the base cover.

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

Drivers and downloads

When troubleshooting, downloading or installing drivers it is recommended that you read the Dell Knowledge Based article, Drivers

and Downloads FAQ 000123347.

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 setup options

NOTE: Depending on your computer and its installed devices, the items that are listed in this section may or may not appear.

Table 3. 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 Version Displays the BIOS version.

Product Name Displays the model number of your computer.

Service Tag Displays the service tag of your computer.

Asset Tag Displays the asset tag of your computer.

CPU Type Displays the processor type.

CPU Speed Displays the processor speed.

CPU ID Displays the processor identification code.

CPU Cache

L1 Cache Displays the processor L1 cache size.

L2 Cache Displays the processor L2 cache size.

L3 Cache Displays the processor L3 cache size.

M.2 PCIe SSD-1 Display the M.2 PCIe SSD device information of the computer.

M.2 PCIe SSD-2 Display the M.2 PCIe SSD device information of the computer.

AC Adapter Type Displays the type of AC adapter.

System Memory Displays the size of memory installed.

Memory Speed Displays the speed of memory.

Keyboard Type Displays the type of keyboard installed on the computer.

Table 4. System setup options—Advance menu

Advance

Integrated NIC Enables or disables the Integrated NIC.

Default: Enabled

USB Emulation Enables or disables the USB emulation feature. This feature

defines how the BIOS, in the absence of a USB-aware

operating system, handles USB devices. USB emulation is

always enabled during POST.

NOTE: You cannot boot any type of USB device (floppy,

hard drive, or memory key) when this option is off.

Default: Enabled

USB PowerShare Enables or disables USB PowerShare.

Default: Enabled

USB Wake Support Enables or disables the USB Wake Support.

Default: Enabled

SATA Operation Allows you to configure the operating mode of the integrated

SATA hard drive controller.

Table 4. System setup options—Advance menu (continued)

Advance

Default: AHCI

Adapter Warnings Allows you to choose if the computer should display warning

messages when you use AC adapters that are not supported by

your computer.

Default: Enabled

Function Key Behavior Allows you to set function key or multimedia key as the default

function key behavior.

Default: Multimedia key

Keyboard Backlight with AC Selects the timeout value for the keyboard backlight when an

AC adapter is plugged into the computer.

Default: 1 minute

Keyboard Backlight with Battery Selects the timeout value for the keyboard backlight when the

computer is running on battery power.

Default: 1 minute

Battery Health Displays the battery health.

Battery Charge Configuration Set the battery charge settings with a preselected custom

charge start and stop.

Default: Adaptive

Advance Battery Charge Configuration Set the battery charge settings with a preselected custom

charge start and stop.

Default: Adaptive

Power on LID open Selects the power-on option when the display is open.

Default: Disabled

Maintenance

Data Wipe on next boot Enables or disables data wipe on the next boot.

Default: Disabled

BIOS Recovery from Hard Drive Enables the user to recover from certain corrupted BIOS

conditions from a recovery file on the user primary hard drive or

an external USB key.

BIOS Auto-Recovery Enables BIOS to automatically recover BIOS without user

actions.

Default: Disabled

SupportAssist System Resolution

Auto OS Recovery Threshold Controls the automatic boot flow for SupportAssist System

Resolution Console and for the Dell operating system Recovery

tool.

Default: 2

SupportAssist OS Recovery Enables or disables the boot flow for the SupportAssist OS

Recovery tool in the even of certain system errors.

Default: Disabled

Table 5. System setup options—Security menu

Security

Admin Password Displays if the administrator password is clear or set.

System Password Displays if the system password is clear or set.

Default: Not Set

Admin Password Allows you to set the administrator password. The

administrator password controls access to the system setup

utility.

System Password Allows you to set the system password. The system password

controls access to the computer at boot.

Password Change Allows you to permit or deny system password or HDD

password changes.

Default: Permitted

Absolute® Enables or disables the BIOS module interface of the optional

Computrace Service from Absolute Software.

Default: Deactivate

Absolute® Status Enables or disables SED Block SID Authentication.

Default: Disabled

Windows SMM Security Mitigations Table (WSMT) Enables or disables the Windows SMM Security Mitigations

Table. It allows the system firmware to confirm to the OS that

certain security best practices have been implemented in the

System Management Mode (SMM) software.

Default: Disabled

Firmware TPM Enable or disable the firmware TPM.

Default: Enabled

PPI Bypass for Clear Command Allows you to control the TPM Physical Presence Interface

(PPI). When enabled, this setting will allow the OS to skip

BIOS PPI user prompts when issuing the Clear command.

Changes to this setting take effect immediately.

Default: Disabled

UEFI Firmware Capsule Updates Enables or disables BIOS updates through UEFI capsule

update packages.

Default: Enabled

Secure Boot Enables or disables configuration of platform features on Dell

Client Systems with WSMT-enabled BIOS.

Default: Enabled

Table 6. System setup options—Boot menu

Boot

Boot List Option Displays the boot options.

Default: UEFI

File Browser Add Boot Option Allows you to add the boot options.

Windows Boot Manager Display boot options in Windows

UEFI Boot Enables or disables UEFI boot.

Default: Disabled

Table 7. System setup options—Exit menu

Exit

Exit Saving Changes Allows you to exit system setup and save your changes.

Save Change Without Exit Allows you to save your changes without exiting the BIOS

setup.

Exit Discarding Changes Allows you to exit the BIOS setup without saving the changes.

Load Optimal Defaults Allows you to restore default values for all system setup

options.

Discard Changes Allows you to load previous values for all system setup

options.

System and setup password

Table 8. 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 F12 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.

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

●Numbers 0 through 9.

●Upper case letters from A to Z.

●Lower case letters from a to z.

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

4. Press Esc and save the changes as prompted by the pop-up message.

5. Press Y to save the changes.

The computer restarts.

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/or 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 F12 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, update, or delete the existing system password, and press Enter or Tab.

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

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

System and/or 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

About this task

CAUTION: Clearing CMOS settings will reset the BIOS settings on your computer.

Steps

1. Remove the base cover.

2. Wait for one minute.

3. Replace the base cover.

Clearing BIOS (System Setup) and System passwords

About this task

To clear the system or BIOS passwords, contact Dell technical support as described at www.dell.com/contactdell.

NOTE: For information on how to reset Windows or application passwords, refer to the documentation accompanying Windows

or your application.

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.

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.

Troubleshooting

Handling swollen Lithium-ion batteries

Like most laptops, Dell laptops use lithium-ion batteries. One type of lithium-ion battery is the lithium-ion polymer battery. Lithium-

ion polymer batteries have increased in popularity in recent years and have become standard in the electronics industry due to

customer preferences for a slim form factor (especially with newer ultra-thin laptops) and long battery life. Inherent to lithium-ion

polymer battery technology is the potential for swelling of the battery cells.

Swollen battery may impact the performance of the laptop. To prevent possible further damage to the device enclosure or internal

components leading to malfunction, discontinue the use of the laptop and discharge it by disconnecting the AC adapter and letting

the battery drain.

Swollen batteries should not be used and should be replaced and disposed of properly. We recommend contacting Dell product

support for options to replace a swollen battery under the terms of the applicable warranty or service contract, including options for

replacement by a Dell authorized service technician.

The guidelines for handling and replacing Lithium-ion batteries are as follows:

●Exercise caution when handling Lithium-ion batteries.

●Discharge the battery before removing it from the system. To discharge the battery, unplug the AC adapter from the system

and operate the system only on battery power. When the system will no longer power on when the power button is pressed, the

battery is fully discharged.

●Do not crush, drop, mutilate, or penetrate the battery with foreign objects.

●Do not expose the battery to high temperatures, or disassemble battery packs and cells.

●Do not apply pressure to the surface of the battery.

●Do not bend the battery.

●Do not use tools of any type to pry on or against the battery.

●If a battery gets stuck in a device as a result of swelling, do not try to free it as puncturing, bending, or crushing a battery can be

dangerous.

●Do not attempt to reassemble a damaged or swollen battery into a laptop.

●Swollen batteries that are covered under warranty should be returned to Dell in an approved shipping container (provided by

Dell)—this is to comply with transportation regulations. Swollen batteries that are not covered under warranty should be disposed

of at an approved recycling center. Contact Dell product support at https://www.dell.com/support for assistance and further

instructions.

●Using a non-Dell or incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible

battery purchased from Dell that is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with

your computer. Always purchase genuine batteries from https://www.dell.com or otherwise directly from Dell.

Lithium-ion batteries can swell for various reasons such as age, number of charge cycles, or exposure to high heat. For more

information on how to improve the performance and lifespan of the laptop battery and to minimize the possibility of occurrence of

the issue, see Dell Laptop Battery - Frequently Asked Questions.

Locate the Service Tag or Express Service Code of your

Dell computer

Your Dell computer is uniquely identified by a Service Tag or Express Service Code. To view relevant support resources for your Dell

computer, we recommend entering 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 for your Dell Laptop.

System-diagnostic lights

Power and battery-status light

The power and battery status light indicates the power and battery status of the computer. These are the power states:

Solid white:Power adapter is connected and the battery has more than 5% charge.

Amber:Computer is running on battery and the battery has less than 5% charge.

Off:

●Power adapter is connected, and the battery is fully charged.

●Computer is running on battery, and the battery has more than 5% charge.

●Computer is in sleep state, hibernation, or turned off.

The power and battery-status light may also blink red or blue according to pre-defined "beep codes" indicating various failures.

For example, the power and battery-status light blinks red two times followed by a pause, and then blinks blue three times followed

by a pause. This 2,3 pattern continues until the computer is turned off, indicating no memory or RAM is detected.

The following table shows different power and battery-status light patterns and associated problems.

NOTE: The following diagnostic light codes and recommended solutions are intended for Dell service technicians to

troubleshoot problems. 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.

Table 9. Diagnostic-light LED codes

Diagnostic light codes (Red,

Blue) Problem description

2,1 Processor failure

2,2 System board: BIOS or ROM (Read-Only

Memory) failure

2,3 No memory or RAM (Random-Access Memory)

detected

2,4 Memory or RAM (Random-Access Memory)

failure

2,5 Invalid memory installed

2,6 System-board or chipset error

2,7 Display failure - SBIOS message

3,1 Coin-cell battery failure

3,2 PCI, video card/chip failure

3,3 Recovery image not found

3,4 Recovery image found but invalid

3,5 Power-rail failure

3,6 System BIOS Flash incomplete

3,7 Management Engine (ME) error

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.

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.

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.

Drain residual flea power (perform hard reset)

About this task

Flea power is the residual static electricity that remains in the computer even after it has been powered off and the battery is

removed.

For your safety, and to protect the sensitive electronic components in your computer, you are requested to drain residual flea power

before removing or replacing any components in your computer.

Draining residual flea power, also known as a performing a "hard reset", is also a common troubleshooting step if your computer does

not power on or boot into the operating system.

To drain residual flea power (perform a hard reset)

Steps

1. Turn off your computer.

2. Disconnect the power adapter from your computer.

3. Remove the base cover.

4. Remove the battery.

5. Press and hold the power button for 20 seconds to drain the flea power.

6. Install the battery.

7. Install the base cover.

8. Connect the power adapter to your computer.

9. Turn on your computer.

NOTE: For more information about performing a hard reset, see the knowledge base article 000130881 at www.dell.com/

support.

Getting help and contacting Alienware

Self-help resources

You can get information and help on Alienware products and services using these online self-help resources:

Table 10. Alienware products and online self-help resources

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.

Table of Contents

Alienware x15 R1 User Manual

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