Dell Alienware Aurora Owners Manual

							51CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING 
Beep CodePossible Problem
OnePossible motherboard failure — BIOS ROM checksum failure
TwoNo RAM detected
NOTE: If you installed or replaced the memory module, ensure that the memory module is seated properly.
ThreePossible motherboard failure — Chipset error
FourRAM read/write failure
FiveReal Time Clock failure
SixVideo card or chip failure
SevenProcessor failure
Computer Problems
The computer fails the POST
The  computer  POST  (Power  On  Self  Test)  ensures  that  all  hardware  is  working properly before starting the remainder of the boot process. If the computer passes the  POST,  the  computer  continues  to  start  normally.  However,  if  the  computer fails the POST, the computer emits a series of beeps during start-up. The following repetitive beep codes help you troubleshoot problems with your computer.
For assistance, contact Alienware (see “CONTACTING ALIENWARE“ on page 66).
NOTE: To replace parts, see the Service Manual at  support.dell.com/manuals.  
						

							52CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING 
A program is designed for an earlier version of Microsoft® Windows® 
Run the Program Compatibility Wizard:
The Program  Compatibility  Wizard  configures  a  program  so  that  it  runs  in  an environment similar to non-Windows operating system environment.
Click 1. Start → Control Panel→ Programs→ Programs and Features→ Run programs made or previous versions of Windows . 
In the welcome screen, click 2. Next.
Follow the instructions on the screen.3. 
The computer stops responding or a solid blue screen appears
CAUTION: You might lose data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
If you are unable to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your  mouse,  press  and  hold  the  power  button  for  at  least  6  seconds  until  the computer turns off, then restart your computer.
A program stops responding or crashes repeatedly
End the program:
Press  simultaneously. 1. 
Click the 2. Applications tab and select the program that is no longer responding. 
Click 3. End Task. 
Check the software documentation.
If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program. 
						

							53CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING 
Other software problems
Back up your files immediately
Use a virus-scanning program to check the hard drive, or CDs
Save  and  close  any  open  files  or  programs  and  shut  down  your  computer through the Start menu.
Scan the computer for spyware:
If you are experiencing slow computer performance, you frequently receive pop-up  advertisements,  or  you  are  having  problems  connecting  to  the  Internet, your  computer  might  be  infected  with  spyware.  Use  an  anti-virus  program  that includes anti-spyware protection (your program may require an upgrade) to scan the computer and remove spyware.
Check  the  software  documentation  or  contact  the  software  manufacturer  for troubleshooting information:
Ensure that the program is compatible with the operating system installed • on your computer.
Ensure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements • needed to run the software. For more information see the software documentation.
Ensure that the program is installed and configured properly.• 
Verify that the device drivers do not conflict with the program.• 
If necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.• 
Run the PSA Diagnostics:
If  all  the  tests  run  successfully,  the  error  condition  is  related  to  a  software problem. 
						

							54CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING 
Hard Drive Problems
Allow the computer to cool before turning it on
A  hot  hard  drive  may  prevent  the  operating  system  from  starting.  Try  allowing the computer to return to room temperature before turning it on.
Run Check Disk
Click 1. Start → Computer.
Right-click 2. Local Disk C:.
Click 3. Properties→ Tools→ Check Now. If the User Account Control window appears, click Continue. 
Follow the instructions on the screen.4. 
Memory
Memory errors detected on start up
Check memory modules for correct seating and orientation. Reseat the • memory modules if applicable (for more information, see “Removing and Replacing Memory Module(s)” on page 39).
Computers using a dual-channel memory configuration require that • memory modules be installed in pairs. If you require assistance, contact Alienware Technical Support (see “CONTACTING ALIENWARE“ on page 66).
Display
If the display is blank
The computer maybe in a power saving mode. Press a key on the keyboard • or press the power button to resume normal operation.
Test the electrical outlet. Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by • testing it with another device, such as a lamp. 
						

							55CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING 
Power
When you press the power button, the computer does not turn on
If the computer is connected into a surge protector or UPS, ensure that • the surge protector or UPS is securely connected to an electrical outlet, is switched on and is working correctly. 
Ensure that the electrical outlet is working properly by testing another • 
device such as a radio or lamp that is known to be working. If the electrical outlet is not working, contact an electrician or your power company for further assistance. 
Ensure all devices on the computer are properly connected to your computer • and that the computer is properly connected to the surge protector or UPS. 
When the computer is connected into an electric outlet, press the diagnostic • button and observe the diagnostic light (to locate the diagnostic button and diagnostic light, see “Back View Features” on page 17) .
If the diagnostic light turns ON, the power supply is functioning as • designed. 
If the diagnostic light does not turn ON, there may be a problem with • the computer.
For further assistance, contact Alienware support (see “CONTACTING ALIENWARE“ on page 66). 
						

							56CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING  
						

							57CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY 
CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY
CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERYYour computer has the following system recovery options: 
Operating System Reinstallation DVD•  — Contains operating system installation media.
Dell Datasafe local•  — Your computer is pre-installed with Dell DataSafe Local Backup (see “Dell DataSafe Local Backup” on page 58).
Resource DVD•  — Contains drivers for your computer. You can also download the latest system drivers from support.dell.com. 
						

							58CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY 
Dell DataSafe Local Backup
Dell DataSafe Local Backup is a backup and recovery application that can restore your  computer  if  you  lose  data  due  to  a  virus  attack,  accidentally  delete  critical files or folders, or if the hard drive crashes.
This application allows you to:
Restore files and folders• 
Restore your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased • your computer, without erasing the existing personal files and data
To schedule backups:
Double-click the Dell DataSafe Local Backup icon 1.  on the taskbar.
Choose 2. Full System Backup to create and schedule automatic backup of all the data in your computer.
To restore data:
Turn off your computer.1. 
Disconnect all the devices connected to the computer (such as USB drive, 2. printer, etc.) and remove any recently added internal hardware.
NOTE: Do  not  disconnect  the  monitor,  keyboard,  mouse,  and  the  power cable.
Turn on your computer.3. 
When the Alienware logo appears, press  several times to access the 4. Advanced Boot Options window.
NOTE: If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to  wait  until  you  see  the  Microsoft®  Windows®  desktop;  then,  shut  down your computer and try again.
Select 5. Repair Your Computer.
Select 6. Dell Factory Image Recovery and DataSafe Options and follow the instructions on the screen.
NOTE: The restoration process might take an hour or more depending on the size of the data to be restored.
NOTE: For more information on Dell DataSafe Local Backup, see knowledge base article 353560 at support.dell.com. 
						

							59CHAPTER 8: SPECIFICATIONS 
This chapter provides specifications of your desktop.
CHAPTER 8: SPECIFICATIONS
CHAPTER 8: SPECIFICATIONS 
						

							60CHAPTER 8: SPECIFICATIONS 
Computer Model
Alienware Aurora/Aurora ALX Alienware Aurora-R2
Dimensions
Height  (with top vents open)426 mm to 447 mm (16.77 inches to 17.59 inches) 
Width250 mm (9.84 inches)
Depth645 mm (25.39 inches)
Average weight  22.09 kg (48.7 lb)
NOTE: The weight of your desktop will vary depending on the configuration and the manufacturing variability.
Processor and System Chipset
Aurora/Aurora ALX
ProcessorIntel® Core™ i7
L2 cache256 KB
L3 cacheup to 12 MB
System chipsetIntel X58 Express
QPI speed6.4 GT/s
DRAM bus width 64 bits
Processor address bus width64 bits
Aurora-R2
ProcessorIntel Core i7  Intel Core i5Intel Core i3
L2 cache256 KB
L3 cacheup to 8 MB
System chipsetIntel P55 Express
DMI speed2.5 GT/s
DRAM bus width 64 bits
Processor address bus width64 bits