ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Laptop

17 R4 - Laptop ALIENWARE - Free user manual and instructions

Find the device manual for free 17 R4 ALIENWARE in PDF.

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Product Type Gaming Laptop
Brand Alienware
Model 17 R4
Display 17.3-inch FHD (1920x1080) or UHD (3840x2160) optional
Processor Intel Core i7-7700HQ (7th Gen, up to 3.8 GHz)
Memory Up to 32 GB DDR4 at 2400 MHz (2 slots)
Storage 2.5-inch SATA HDD + M.2 PCIe SSD (up to 1 TB SSD)
Graphics NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 with 8 GB GDDR5
Ports USB 3.0 (3), USB 3.1 Type-C, HDMI 2.0, Mini DisplayPort, headphone/mic combo, RJ45
Audio Built-in stereo speakers + subwoofer, headphone output
Connectivity Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.2, Gigabit Ethernet
Battery 76 Wh lithium-ion (4-cell), Express Charge support
Power Adapter 180 W AC adapter (240 W optional)
Webcam 1080p HD camera with dual digital microphones
Keyboard Alienware TactX keyboard with per-key RGB backlight
Touchpad Multi-touch gesture touchpad with backlight option
Dimensions (W x D x H) 42.4 cm x 33.2 cm x 2.9 cm (16.7 in x 13.1 in x 1.14 in)
Weight Approximately 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs)
Operating System Windows 10 Home or Pro (64-bit)
Special Features Tobii eye-tracking (optional), AlienFX RGB lighting, Tron light, Alienhead logo
Security BIOS password, HDD password, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) firmware
Maintenance Service manual with step-by-step removal/replacement guides for all major components

Frequently Asked Questions - 17 R4 ALIENWARE

How do I remove the base cover on the Alienware 17 R4?
To remove the base cover, first shut down the computer and disconnect all cables. Remove the six M2.5x13 screws securing the base cover, then loosen the captive screw. Use a plastic scribe to pry the base cover and release the tabs. Lift the cover off and disconnect the battery cable from the system board. Press the power button for five seconds to ground the system board.
Can I upgrade the memory on the Alienware 17 R4?
Yes, the Alienware 17 R4 has two memory module slots supporting DDR4 RAM. To upgrade, remove the base cover, then gently spread the securing clips on the memory module slots until the module pops up. Slide out the old module and insert a new one at an angle, pressing down until it clicks. Ensure the notch aligns with the tab.
How do I replace the hard drive in the Alienware 17 R4?
Start by removing the base cover. Disconnect the hard drive cable from the system board and remove the four M2.5x5 screws securing the hard drive assembly. Lift the assembly out, then remove the four M3x3 screws to detach the bracket. Disconnect the interposer from the hard drive. To install, reverse the steps and reconnect the cable.
What is the battery capacity and how do I remove it?
The Alienware 17 R4 uses a 76 Wh lithium-ion battery. To remove it, after removing the base cover, hard drive, wireless card, solid-state drive, rear-I/O cover, and computer base, remove the four M2.5x5 screws securing the battery and lift it out. Handle with care to avoid damage.
How do I enter the BIOS setup program on the Alienware 17 R4?
Turn on or restart the computer. When the Dell logo appears, press F2 repeatedly until the BIOS setup screen appears. The BIOS manages data flow between the OS and hardware. You can change settings like boot order, security, and performance options.
What should I do if I forget the BIOS password?
If you forget the BIOS password, you must contact Dell technical support to clear it. There is no self-service method. You can find contact information at www.dell.com/contactdell. Always note down passwords to avoid this issue.
How do I clean the Alienware 17 R4 safely?
To clean your laptop, shut it down and disconnect the power. Use a soft, lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution. Avoid using solvents or abrasive materials. For the fan and internal components, compressed air can be used, but ensure you ground yourself to prevent static damage. Refer to the service manual for disassembly.
Can I replace the keyboard on my own?
Yes, the keyboard is replaceable. You need to remove the base cover, hard drive, wireless card, solid-state drive, memory modules, rear-I/O cover, computer base, system-board assembly, and battery. Then remove 17 screws securing the keyboard bracket, lift the bracket, and slide the keyboard out. Installation is the reverse.
What is the function of the Tobii eye-tracker and how do I install it?
The optional Tobii eye-tracker enables eye-tracking for games and applications. To install, after removing the display bezel, use a plastic scribe to pry the module out and reconnect the cable. After replacement, launch the EyeX application with an internet connection to update firmware automatically.
How do I flash the BIOS on the Alienware 17 R4?
Go to www.dell.com/support, enter your Service Tag, and download the latest BIOS update. Navigate to the downloaded file, double-click it, and follow on-screen instructions. Ensure the computer is connected to power and do not turn off during the update. Flashing the BIOS may be needed for system board replacement or upgrading.

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Download the instructions for your Laptop in PDF format for free! Find your manual 17 R4 - ALIENWARE and take your electronic device back in hand. On this page are published all the documents necessary for the use of your device. 17 R4 by ALIENWARE.

USER MANUAL 17 R4 ALIENWARE

Alienware 17 R4 Service Manual

Notes, cautions, and warnings

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Notes, cautions, and warnings - 1

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your product.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Notes, cautions, and warnings - 2

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Notes, cautions, and warnings - 3

WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

© 2016 Dell Inc. All rights reserved. This product is protected by U.S. and international copyright and intellectual property laws. Dell and the Dell logo are trademarks of Dell Inc. in the United States and/or other jurisdictions. All other marks and names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies.

2016 - 09

Rev. A00

Contents

Before working inside your computer.... 11

Before you begin 11

Safety instructions....11

Recommended tools....12

Screw list....13

After working inside your computer.... 15

Removing the base cover.... 16

Procedure....16

Replacing the base cover....19

Procedure....19

Removing the hard drive....20

Prerequisites....20

Procedure....20

Replacing the hard drive.... 23

Procedure....23

Post-requisites....23

Removing the wireless card.... 24

Prerequisites....24

Procedure....24

Replacing the wireless card....26

Procedure....26

Post-requisites....27

Removing the solid-state drive.... 28

Prerequisites....28

Procedure....28

Replacing the solid-state drive....30

Procedure....30

Post-requisites.... 31

Removing the memory modules.... 32

Prerequisites....32

Procedure....32

Replacing the memory modules.... 34

Procedure....34

Post-requisites....35

Removing the rear-I/O cover....36

Prerequisites....36

Procedure....36

Replacing the rear-I/O cover.... 38

Procedure....38

Post-requisites.... 38

Removing the computer base.... 39

Prerequisites....39

Procedure....39

Replacing the computer base...... 43

Procedure....43

Post-requisites....43

Removing the coin-cell battery.... 44

Prerequisites....44

Procedure....44

Replacing the coin-cell battery....46

Procedure....46

Post-requisites....46

Removing the speakers...... 47

Prerequisites....47

Procedure....47

Replacing the speakers.... 49

Procedure....49

Post-requisites....49

Removing the I/O board....50

Prerequisites....50

Procedure....50

Replacing the I/O board.... 53

Procedure....53

Post-requisites....53

Removing the subwoofer....54

Prerequisites....54

Procedure....54

Replacing the subwoofer.... 56

Procedure....56

Post-requisites....56

Removing the system-board assembly...... 57

Prerequisites....57

Procedure....57

Replacing the system-board assembly...... 62

Procedure....62

Post-requisites....63

Removing the heat-sink assembly.... 64

Prerequisites....64

Procedure....64

Replacing the heat-sink assembly.... 67

Procedure....67

Post-requisites....67

Removing the power-adapter port...... 68

Prerequisites....68

Procedure....68

Replacing the power-adapter port.... 70

Procedure....70

Post-requisites....70

Removing the power-button board.... 71

Prerequisites....71

Procedure....71

Replacing the power-button board....73

Procedure....73

Post-requisites....73

Removing the display assembly....74

Prerequisites....74

Procedure....74

Replacing the display assembly.... 76

Procedure....76

Post-requisites....76

Removing the battery....77

Prerequisites....77

Procedure....77

Replacing the battery....79

Procedure....79

Post-requisites....79

Removing the touch pad....80

Prerequisites....80

Procedure....80

Replacing the touch pad....82

Procedure....82

Post-requisites....82

Removing the keyboard.... 83

Prerequisites....83

Procedure....83

Replacing the keyboard....85

Procedure....85

Post-requisites.... 85

Removing the palm rest.... 86

Prerequisites....86

Procedure....86

Replacing the palm rest....88

Procedure....88

Post-requisites....88

Removing the display bezel.... 89

Prerequisites....89

Procedure....89

Replacing the display bezel.... 91

Procedure....91

Post-requisites....91

Removing the tobii eye-tracker module....92

Prerequisites....92

Procedure....92

Replacing the tobii eye-tracker module....94

Procedure....94

Post-requisites....94

Removing the logo board....95

Prerequisites....95

Procedure....95

Replacing the logo board....98

Procedure....98

Post-requisites.... 98

Removing the display panel.... 99

Prerequisites....99

Procedure....99

Replacing the display panel....102

Procedure....102

Post-requisites....102

Removing the camera....103

Prerequisites....103

Procedure....103

Replacing the camera.... 105

Procedure....105

Post-requisites....105

Removing the display hinges....106

Prerequisites....106

Procedure....107

Replacing the display hinges.... 110

Procedure....110

Post-requisites....110

Removing the display back-cover and antenna assembly.... 111

Prerequisites....111

Procedure....112

Replacing the display back-cover and antenna assembly....114

Procedure....114

Post-requisites....114

BIOS overview.... 115

Entering the BIOS setup program....115

Timing key sequences....115

System Setup Options.... 115

Clearing forgotten passwords....121

Clearing CMOS settings....121

Flashing the BIOS....121

Boot menu....122

Boot menu enhancements....122

Diagnostics....123

Getting help and contacting Alienware.... 125

Self-help resources....125

Contacting Alienware....125

Before working inside your computer

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Before working inside your computer - 1

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

Before you begin

1 Save and close all open files and exit all open applications.
2 Shut down your computer. Click Start → ⏻Power → Shut down.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Before you begin - 1

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 cables such as telephone cables and network cables, from your computer.
5 Disconnect all attached devices and peripherals, such as keyboard, mouse, and monitor, from your computer.
6 Remove any media card and optical disc from your computer, if applicable.
7 Close the display and turn the computer over.

Safety instructions

Use the following safety guidelines to protect your computer from potential damage and ensure your personal safety.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Safety instructions - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Safety instructions - 2

WARNING: Disconnect 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 to the electrical outlet.

CAUTION: To avoid damaging the computer, ensure that the work surface is flat and clean.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the components and cards, handle them by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts.
CAUTION: You should only perform troubleshooting and repairs as authorized or directed by the Dell technical assistance team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. See the safety instructions that 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 on its connector or on its pull tab, not on the cable itself. Some cables have connectors with locking tabs or thumb-screws that you must disengage before disconnecting the cable. When disconnecting cables, keep them evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. When connecting cables, ensure that the ports and connectors are correctly oriented and aligned.
CAUTION: Press and eject any installed card from the media-card reader.

The procedures in this document may require the following tools:

  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Plastic scribe

Screw list

Component Secured to Screw type Quantity Screwimage
Base cover Palm-rest assemblyM2.5x13 6ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 1
Battery Palm-rest assemblyM2.5x5 4ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 2
Computer basePalm-rest assemblyM2.5x8 14ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 3
Computer basePalm-rest assemblyM2.5x5 2ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 4
Display assemblyPalm-rest assemblyM2.5x5 6ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 5
Display hinges Display back-cover and antenna assemblyM2.5x3 12ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 6
Display panel Display back-cover and antenna assemblyM2x3 4ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 7
Hard-drive assemblyComputer base M2.5x5 4ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 8
Hard-drive bracketHard-drive assemblyM3x3 4ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 9
Heat-sink assemblySystem-board assemblyM2x3 7ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 10
I/O board Palm-rest assemblyM2.5x5 2ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 11
KeyboardbracketPalm-restassemblyM2x3 17ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 12
Logo board Display back-cover andantennaassemblyM2x3 2ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 13
Power-adapterport bracketPalm-restassemblyM2x3 1ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 14
Power-buttonboardPalm-restassemblyM2x3 2ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 15
Rear-I/O cover Computer base M2.5x7 2ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 16
Solid-statedriveComputer base M2x3 1ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 17
Subwoofer Palm-restassemblyM2x2 2ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 18
System-boardassemblyPalm-restassemblyM2.5x5 7ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 19
Touch-padbracketPalm-restassemblyM2x3 5ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 20
Tron-lightholderComputer base M2x3 2ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 21
Wireless-cardbracketComputer base M2x3 1ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Screw list - 22

After working inside your computer

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - After working inside your computer - 1

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

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 the base cover

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the base cover - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Remove the six screws (M2.5x13) that secure the base cover to the computer base.
2 Loosen the captive screw that secures the base cover to the computer base.

Diagram of a roof drain with labeled components, showing ventilation slots and mounting points

3 Using a plastic scribe, gently pry the base cover to release the tabs on the base cover from the slots on the computer base.

4 Lift the base cover off the computer base.

Diagram of a device's ventilation system with numbered components and directional arrows indicating airflow or movement.

5 Disconnect the battery cable from the system board.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 3

natural_image Interior view of a computer case with visible circuit boards and components, showing a magnified inset of a device component (no text or symbols)

6 Press and hold the power button for five seconds to ground the system board.

Replacing the base cover

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the base cover - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Connect the battery cable to the system board.
2 Slide the tabs on the base cover into the slots on the computer base and snap the base cover into place.
3 Tighten the captive screw that secures the base cover to the computer base.
4 Replace the six screws (M2.5x13) that secure the base cover to the computer base.

Removing the hard drive

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the hard drive - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the hard drive - 2

CAUTION: Hard drives are fragile. Exercise care when handling the hard drive.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the hard drive - 3

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

Prerequisites

Remove the base cover.

Procedure

1 Using the pull-tab, disconnect the hard-drive cable from the system board.
2 Remove the hard-drive cable from the routing guides on the computer base.
3 Remove the four screws (M2.5x5) that secure the hard-drive assembly to the computer base.

4 Lift the hard-drive assembly along with its cable off the computer base.

Labeled diagram of a computer monitor showing internal components and a magnified view of the device's cable assembly.

5 Remove the four screws (M3x3) that secure the hard-drive bracket to the hard-drive assembly.
6 Lift the hard-drive bracket off the hard-drive assembly.

Diagram of a computer hard drive with labeled parts and blue arrows indicating assembly steps

7 Disconnect the interposer from the hard drive.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 3

natural_image Close-up of a green hard disk drive with attached cable and connector, showing internal components and a blue arrow indicating a component (no text or symbols on the device itself)

Replacing the hard drive

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the hard drive - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the hard drive - 2

CAUTION: Hard drives are fragile. Exercise care when handling the hard drive.

Procedure

1 Connect the interposer to the hard drive.
2 Align the screw holes on the hard-drive bracket with the screw holes on the hard-drive assembly.
3 Replace the four screws (M3x3) that secure the hard-drive bracket to the hard-drive assembly.
4 Align the screw holes on the hard-drive assembly with the screw holes on the computer base.
5 Replace the four screws (M2.5x5) that secure the hard-drive assembly to the computer base.
6 Route the hard-drive cable through the routing guides on the computer base.
7 Connect the hard-drive cable to the system board.

Post-requisites

Replace the base cover.

Removing the wireless card

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the wireless card - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

Remove the base cover.

Procedure

1 Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the computer base.
2 Slide and remove the wireless-card bracket from the wireless card.
3 Disconnect the antenna cables from the wireless card.

4 Slide the wireless card out of the wireless-card slot.

Diagram showing four steps of installing a physical component with labeled parts and annotations in Chinese.

Replacing the wireless card

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the wireless card - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

CAUTION: To avoid damaging the wireless card, do not place any cables under it.

1 Align the notch on the wireless card with the tab on the wireless-card slot.
2 Slide the wireless card at an angle into the wireless-card slot.
3 Connect the antenna cables to the wireless card.

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

Connectors on the wireless card Antenna cable color

Auxiliary (black triangle) Black

Main (white triangle) White

4 Slide the wireless card bracket on to the wireless card, and align the screw hole on the wireless-card bracket with the screw hole on the wireless card and the computer base.

5 Press the other end of the wireless card and replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the wireless-card bracket to the computer base.

Diagram showing a computer motherboard with labeled parts and annotations in Chinese, including a 2D card component being inserted.

Post-requisites

Replace the base cover.

Removing the solid-state drive

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the solid-state drive - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the solid-state drive - 2

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

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the solid-state drive - 3

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

Prerequisites

Remove the base cover.

Procedure

1 Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the solid-state drive shield and solid-state drive to the computer base.
2 Peel off the solid-state drive shield from the solid-state drive.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

NOTE: Solid-state drive shield is applicable to computers that are shipped with 1 TB solid-state drive.

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

Diagram showing three views of a computer RAM module with labeled components and directional arrows indicating assembly or repair.

Replacing the solid-state drive

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the solid-state drive - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the solid-state drive - 2

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

Procedure

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 and adhere the solid-state drive shield on the solid-state drive.
4 Align the screw hole on the solid-state drive and solid-state drive shield with the screw hole on the computer base.

5 Replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the solid-state drive to the computer base.

Diagram showing a computer RAM module being inserted into a motherboard, with labeled steps 2 to 5 indicating process flow.

Post-requisites

Replace the base cover.

Removing the memory modules

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the memory modules - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

Remove the base cover.

Procedure

1 Using your fingertips, carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory-module slot until the memory module pops up.

2 Slide and remove the memory module from the memory-module slot.

Diagram showing two views of a computer motherboard with labeled components and arrows indicating process steps.

Replacing the memory modules

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the memory modules - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Align the notch on the memory module with the tab on the memory-module slot and slide the memory module firmly into the slot at an angle.
2 Press the memory module down until it clicks into place.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

NOTE: If you do not hear the click, remove the memory module and reinstall it.

Diagram showing two views of a computer motherboard with labeled components and blue arrows indicating process steps.

Post-requisites

Replace the base cover.

Removing the rear-I/O cover

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the rear-I/O cover - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

Remove the base cover.

Procedure

1 Remove the two screws (M2.5x7) that secure the rear-I/O cover to the palm-rest assembly.
2 Using a plastic scribe, gently release the tabs that secure rear-I/O cover to the computer base.

3 Slide and remove the rear-I/O cover from the computer base.

Labeled diagram of a computer chassis showing three numbered components with blue arrows indicating motion or movement.

Replacing the rear-I/O cover

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the rear-I/O cover - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Slide the tabs on the rear-I/O cover into the slots on the computer base and snap the rear-I/O cover into place.
2 Replace the two screws (M2.5x7) that secure the rear-I/O cover to the palm-rest assembly.

Post-requisites

Replace the base cover.

Removing the computer base

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the computer base - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.

Procedure

1 Note the cable routing and remove the antenna cables from the routing guides on the computer base.
2 Disconnect the tron-light cable from the system board.

3 Disconnect the tron-light cable from the system board.

Laptop interior with three labeled views showing cable installation steps: 1, 2, and 3.

4 Remove the two screws (M2.5x5) that secure the computer base to the palm-rest assembly.

5 Remove the 14 screws (M2.5x8) that secure the computer base to the palm-rest assembly.

Laptop interior diagram with numbered annotations pointing to various electronic components

6 Using a plastic scribe, gently release the tabs on the computer base from the slots on the palm-rest assembly.

7 Lift the computer base off the palm-rest assembly.

Laptop interior diagram with numbered annotations pointing to internal components and a cable attachment

Replacing the computer base

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the computer base - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Align the screw holes on the computer base with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
2 Replace the 14 screws (M2.5x8) that secure the computer base to the palm-rest assembly.
3 Replace the two screws (M2.5x5) that secure the computer base to the palm-rest assembly.
4 Connect the tron-light cables to the system board.
5 Route the antenna cables through the routing guides on the computer base.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
2 Replace the solid-state drive.
3 Replace the wireless card.
4 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
5 Replace the base cover.

Removing the coin-cell battery

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the coin-cell battery - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the coin-cell battery - 2

CAUTION: Removing the coin-cell battery resets the BIOS setup program's settings to default. It is recommended that you note the BIOS setup program's settings before removing the coin-cell battery.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.

Procedure

1 Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the system board.
2 Peel off the tape that secures the coin-cell battery cable to the system board.
3 Peel off the tape that secures the coin-cell battery to the palm-rest assembly.
4 Note the cable routing and remove the coin-cell battery cable from the routing guide on the palm-rest assembly.

5 Gently peel off the coin-cell battery along with its cable off the palm-rest assembly.

Laptop CPU interior with numbered annotations indicating component placement and disassembly steps

Replacing the coin-cell battery

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the coin-cell battery - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Adhere the coin-cell battery to the palm-rest assembly.
2 Adhere the tape that secures the coin-cell battery to the palm-rest assembly.
3 Route the coin-cell battery cable through the routing guide on the palm-rest assembly.
4 Adhere the tape that secures the coin-cell battery cable to the system board.
5 Connect the coin-cell battery cable to the system board.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the computer base.
2 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
3 Replace the solid-state drive.
4 Replace the wireless card.
5 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
6 Replace the base cover.

Removing the speakers

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the speakers - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.

Procedure

1 Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.
2 Remove the speaker cable from the routing guides on the palm-rest assembly.

3 Lift the speakers along with its cable off the palm-rest assembly.

Laptop CPU interior with numbered annotations pointing to internal components and wiring, showing circuit board and battery casing.

Replacing the speakers

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the speakers - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Using the alignment posts, place the speakers on the palm-rest assembly.
2 Route the speaker cable through the routing guides on the palm-rest assembly.
3 Connect the speaker cable to the system board.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the computer base.
2 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
3 Replace the solid-state drive.
4 Replace the wireless card.
5 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
6 Replace the base cover.

Removing the I/O board

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the I/O board - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.

Procedure

1 Peel the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the I/O board.
2 Open the latch and disconnect the I/O-board cable from the I/O board.
3 Remove the two screws (M2.5x5) that secure the I/O board to the palm-rest assembly.

4 Turn the I/O board over.

Laptop CPU rear panel with numbered annotations indicating component placement and disassembly steps

5 Disconnect the subwoofer cable.

6 Lift the I/O board off the palm-rest assembly.

Diagram showing a disassembled computer motherboard with labeled components and an inset close-up of the circuit board.

Replacing the I/O board

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the I/O board - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Connect the subwoofer cable to the I/O board.
2 Turn the I/O board over.
3 Using the alignment posts, place the I/O board on the palm-rest assembly and align the screw holes on the I/O board with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
4 Replace the two screws (M2.5x5) that secure the I/O board to the palm-rest assembly.
5 Slide the I/O-board cable into the connector on the I/O board and close the latch to secure the cable.
6 Adhere the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the I/O board.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the computer base.
2 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
3 Replace the solid-state drive.
4 Replace the wireless card.
5 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
6 Replace the base cover.

Removing the subwoofer

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the subwoofer - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.
7 Remove the I/O board.

Procedure

1 Remove the two screws (M2x2) that secure the subwoofer to the palm-rest assembly.

2 Lift the subwoofer along with its cable off the palm-rest assembly.

Laptop CPU interior with labeled components and blue arrows indicating parts of the main casing

Replacing the subwoofer

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the subwoofer - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Align the screw holes on the subwoofer with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
2 Replace the two screws (M2x2) that secure the subwoofer to the palm-rest assembly.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the I/O board.
2 Replace the computer base.
3 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
4 Replace the solid-state drive.
5 Replace the wireless card.
6 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
7 Replace the base cover.

Removing the system-board assembly

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the system-board assembly - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the system-board assembly - 2

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

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the system-board assembly - 3

NOTE: Replacing the system board removes any changes you have made to the BIOS using the BIOS setup program. You must make the appropriate changes again after you replace the system board.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the system-board assembly - 4

NOTE: Before disconnecting the cables from the system board, note the location of the connectors so that you can reconnect the cables correctly after you replace the system board.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.

Procedure

1 Turn the computer over.
2 Peel the tape that secures the display cable to the system board.
3 Open the latch and disconnect the display cable from the system board.
4 Disconnect the tobii eye-tracker board cable from the system board.

5 Using the pull-tab, disconnect the power-button board cable from the system board.
6 Disconnect the logo-board cable from the system board.

Diagram showing a device's internal components with numbered steps and blue arrows indicating motion or assembly.

7 Turn the computer over.
8 Disconnect the coin-cell battery cable from the system board.
9 Peel off the tape that secures the coin-cell battery cable to the system board.
10 Disconnect the power-adapter port cable from the system board.
11 Disconnect the speaker cable from the system board.
12 Lift the latch and disconnect the macro-keys backlight cable from the system board.
13 Lift the latch and disconnect the keyboard-backlight cable from the system board.

14 Lift the latch and disconnect the macro-keys cable from the system board.

Labeled diagram of a computer motherboard showing numbered components with annotations for circuitry and assembly steps

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

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

17 Open the latch and disconnect the keyboard cable from the system board.

18 Open the latch and disconnect the touch-pad cable from the system board.

Laptop motherboard diagram with numbered component annotations showing heat transfer and cooling mechanism

19 Remove the screw (M2.5x5) that secures the USB Type-C port bracket to the system board and lift the USB Type-C port bracket off the system board.
20 Remove the seven screws (M2.5x5) that secure the system-board assembly to the palm-rest assembly.

21 Lift the system-board assembly off the palm-rest assembly.

19 20 21

Replacing the system-board assembly

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the system-board assembly - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the system-board assembly - 2

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

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the system-board assembly - 3

NOTE: Replacing the system board removes any changes you have made to the BIOS using the BIOS setup program. You must make the appropriate changes again after you replace the system board.

Procedure

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

CAUTION: Ensure that no cables are under the system board.

1 Align the screw holes on the system board with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
2 Replace the seven screws (M2.5x5) that secure the system-board assembly to the palm-rest assembly.
3 Align the screw hole on the USB Type-C port bracket with the screw hole on the system board.
4 Replace the screw (M2.5x5) that secures the USB Type-C port bracket to the system board.
5 Slide the I/O-board cable into the connector on the I/O-board and close the latch to secure the cable.
6 Adhere the tape that secures the I/O-board cable to the I/O board.
7 Slide the touch-pad cable into the connector on the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.
8 Insert the keyboard cable, macro-keys backlight cable, and keyboard-backlight cable into their connectors and press down the latches to secure the cables.

9 Connect the macro-keys cable, speaker cable, power-adapter port cable, and coin-cell battery cable to the system board.
10 Route the coin-cell battery through the routing channel and adhere the tape to secure the cable.
11 Turn the computer over.
12 Connect the logo-board cable, power-button board cable, and tobii eye-tracker board cable to the system board.
13 Slide the display cable into the connector on the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.
14 Adhere the tape that secures the display cable to the system board.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the computer base.
2 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
3 Replace the solid-state drive.
4 Replace the wireless card.
5 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
6 Replace the base cover.

Removing the heat-sink assembly

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the heat-sink assembly - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the heat-sink assembly - 2

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

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the heat-sink assembly - 3

CAUTION: For maximum cooling of the processor, do not touch the heat transfer areas on the heat sink. The oils in your skin can reduce the heat transfer capability of the thermal grease.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the memory modules.
6 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
7 Remove the computer base.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.

Procedure

1 Turn the system-board assembly over.
2 Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.

3 Disconnect the fan cable from the system board.

Diagram showing three views of a computer motherboard with labeled components and blue circuit board, highlighting internal wiring and component disassembly.

4 Turn the system-board assembly over.

5 Remove the seven screws (M2x3) that secure the heat-sink assembly to the system board.

6 Lift the heat-sink assembly off the system board.

5 6

Replacing the heat-sink assembly

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the heat-sink assembly - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the heat-sink assembly - 2

CAUTION: Incorrect alignment of the heat sink can damage the system board and processor.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the heat-sink assembly - 3

NOTE: The original thermal grease can be reused if the original system board and fan are reinstalled together. If either the system board or the fan is replaced, use the thermal pad provided in the kit to ensure that thermal conductivity is achieved.

Procedure

1 Align the screw holes on the heat-sink assembly with the screw holes on the system board.
2 Replace the seven screws (M2x3) that secure the heat-sink assembly to the system board.
3 Turn the system-board assembly over.
4 Connect the fan cables to their respective connectors on the system board.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the system-board assembly.
2 Replace the computer base.
3 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
4 Replace the memory modules.
5 Replace the solid-state drive.
6 Replace the wireless card.
7 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
8 Replace the base cover.

Removing the power- adapter port

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the power- adapter port - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the memory modules.
6 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
7 Remove the computer base.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.

Procedure

1 Remove the screw (M2x3) that secures the power-adapter port bracket to the palm-rest assembly.
2 Lift the power-adapter port bracket off the power-adapter port.
3 Lift the power-adapter port off the palm-rest assembly.
4 Peel the tape that secures the power-adapter-port cable to the palm-rest assembly.

5 Remove the cable from the routing guides on the palm-rest assembly.

Labeled diagram of a laptop keyboard showing three steps: press, switch, and cable assembly with numbered annotations.

Replacing the power-adapter port

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the power-adapter port - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Slide the power-adapter port into the slot on the palm-rest assembly.
2 Route the power-adapter port cable through the routing guides on the palm-rest assembly.
3 Using the alignment post, place the power-adapter port bracket on the power-adapter port.
4 Align the screw hole on the power-adapter port bracket with the screw hole on the palm-rest assembly.
5 Replace the screw (M2x3) that secures the power-adapter port bracket to the palm-rest assembly.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the system-board assembly.
2 Replace the computer base.
3 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
4 Replace the memory modules.
5 Replace the solid-state drive.
6 Replace the wireless card.
7 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
8 Replace the base cover.

Removing the power-button board

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the power-button board - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the memory modules.
6 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
7 Remove the computer base.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.

Procedure

1 Remove the two screws (M2x3) that secure the power-button board to the palm-rest assembly.

2 Lift the power-button board along with its cable off the palm-rest assembly.

Laptop interior with numbered annotations pointing to electronic components and wiring

Replacing the power-button board

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the power-button board - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Using the alignment posts, place the power-button board on the palm-rest assembly.
2 Align the screw holes on the power-button board with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
3 Replace the two screws (M2x3) that secure the power-button board to the palm-rest assembly.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the system-board assembly.
2 Replace the computer base.
3 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
4 Replace the memory modules.
5 Replace the solid-state drive.
6 Replace the wireless card.
7 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
8 Replace the base cover.

Removing the display assembly

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the display assembly - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the memory modules.
6 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
7 Remove the computer base.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.

Procedure

1 Remove the six screws (M2.5x5) that secure the display assembly to the palm-rest assembly.

2 Lift the display assembly off the computer base.

Diagram of a device with labeled parts, showing numbered annotations 1 and 2 pointing to components.

Replacing the display assembly

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the display assembly - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Align the screw holes on the display hinges with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
2 Replace the six screws (M2.5x5) that secure the display assembly to the palm-rest assembly.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the system-board assembly.
2 Replace the computer base.
3 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
4 Replace the memory modules.
5 Replace the solid-state drive.
6 Replace the wireless card.
7 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
8 Replace the base cover.

Removing the battery

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the battery - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.

Procedure

1 Remove the four screws (M2.5x5) that secure the battery to the palm-rest assembly.

2 Lift the battery off the palm-rest assembly.

Laptop screen with battery pack and labeled components, showing a blue arrow pointing to component 1

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 2

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Using the alignment post, place the battery on the palm-rest assembly.
2 Align the screw holes on the battery with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
3 Replace the four screws (M2.5x5) that secure the battery to the palm-rest assembly.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the computer base.
2 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
3 Replace the solid-state drive.
4 Replace the wireless card.
5 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
6 Replace the base cover.

Removing the touch pad

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the touch pad - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.
7 Remove the battery.

Procedure

1 Open the latch and disconnect the touch-pad cable from the system board.
2 Open the latches and disconnect the touch-pad cable and the touch-pad buttons cable from the touch pad.
3 Remove the five screws (M2x3) that secure the touch-pad bracket to the palm-rest assembly.

4 Lift the touch-pad bracket off the palm-rest assembly.

Laptop interior with numbered annotations showing component assembly steps: 1, 2, 3, and 4.

5 Lift the touch pad off the palm-rest assembly.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 2

natural_image Interior view of a computer with visible circuit boards and a green printed circuit board (no text or symbols)

Replacing the touch pad

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the touch pad - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Using the alignment posts on the palm rest, place the touch pad on the palm-rest assembly.
2 Align the screw holes on the touch-pad bracket with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
3 Replace the five screws (M2x3) that secure the touch-pad bracket to the palm-rest assembly.
4 Slide the touch-pad cable and touch-pad buttons cable into their respective connectors on the touch pad and close the latches to secure the cables.
5 Slide the touch-pad cable into the connector on the system board and close the latch to secure the cable.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the battery.
2 Replace the computer base.
3 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
4 Replace the solid-state drive.
5 Replace the wireless card.
6 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
7 Replace the base cover.

Removing the keyboard

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the keyboard - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the memory modules.
6 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
7 Remove the computer base.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.
9 Remove the battery.

Procedure

1 Remove the 17 screws (M2x3) that secure the keyboard bracket to the palm-rest assembly.

2 Lift the keyboard bracket off the palm-rest assembly.

Laptop interior diagram with numbered annotations indicating components and a blue arrow pointing to a specific area.

3 Lift the keyboard at an angle and remove it from the tabs on the palm-rest assembly.

Laptop interior diagram with blue arrows indicating a component and numbered label '3' pointing to a device.

Replacing the keyboard

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the keyboard - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

CAUTION: Ensure that no cables are under the keyboard.

1 Slide the keyboard under the tabs on the palm-rest assembly.
2 Align the screw holes on the keyboard bracket with the screw holes on the palm-rest assembly.
3 Replace the palm-rest assembly screws (M2x3) that secure the keyboard bracket to the palm-rest assembly.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the battery.
2 Replace the system-board assembly.
3 Replace the computer base.
4 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
5 Replace the memory modules.
6 Replace the solid-state drive.
7 Replace the wireless card.
8 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
9 Replace the base cover.

Removing the palm rest

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the palm rest - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.
7 Remove the coin-cell battery.
8 Remove the speakers.
9 Remove the I/O board.
10 Remove the subwoofer.
11 Remove the memory modules.
12 Remove the system-board assembly.
13 Remove the power-button board.
14 Remove the power-adapter port.
15 Remove the battery.
16 Remove the touch pad.
17 Remove the keyboard.
18 Remove the display assembly.

Procedure

After performing all the prerequisites, we are left with the palm rest.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

natural_image Black plastic computer back panel with visible internal components and mounting holes (no text or symbols)

Replacing the palm rest

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the palm rest - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

Place the palm rest on a flat surface.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the display assembly.
2 Replace the keyboard.
3 Replace the touch pad.
4 Replace the battery.
5 Replace the power-adapter port.
6 Replace the power-button board.
7 Replace the system-board assembly.
8 Replace the memory modules.
9 Replace the subwoofer.
10 Replace the I/O board.
11 Replace the speakers.
12 Replace the coin-cell battery.
13 Replace the computer base.
14 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
15 Replace the solid-state drive.
16 Replace the wireless card.
17 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
18 Replace the base cover.

Removing the display bezel

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the display bezel - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the memory modules.
6 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
7 Remove the computer base.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.
9 Remove the display assembly.
10 Remove the display hinges.

Procedure

1 Using your fingertips, carefully pry up the inside edges of the display bezel.

2 Carefully lift the display bezel and turn it over.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

natural_image Diagram of a device with two blue arrows indicating directional flow, showing a rectangular panel and cable structure (no text or symbols)

3 Disconnect the tobii eye-tracker board cable from the tobii eye-tracker module.
4 Lift the display bezel off the display assembly.

Laptop screen with labeled parts and magnified view showing internal components, including a blue arrow indicating direction of movement.

5 Remove the tobii eye-tracker module.

Replacing the display bezel

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the display bezel - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Replace the tobii eye-tracker module.
2 Connect the tobii eye-tracker board cable to the tobii eye-tracker module.
3 Carefully turn the display bezel over.
4 Align the display bezel with the display back-cover and antenna assembly and gently snap the display bezel into place.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the display hinges.
2 Replace the display assembly.
3 Replace the system-board assembly.
4 Replace the computer base.
5 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
6 Replace the memory modules.
7 Replace the solid-state drive.
8 Replace the wireless card.
9 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
10 Replace the base cover.

Removing the tobii eye-tracker module

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the tobii eye-tracker module - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the memory modules.
6 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
7 Remove the computer base.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.
9 Remove the display assembly.
10 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 3 in "Removing the display bezel".

Procedure

Using a plastic scribe, pry the tobii eye-tracker module out of the display bezel.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

natural_image Metallic rectangular frame with a diagonal ruler and blue directional arrows indicating measurement or movement (no text or symbols)

Replacing the tobii eye-tracker module

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the tobii eye-tracker module - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

NOTE: After replacing the Tobii eye-tracker module, launch the EyeX application with internet connection to update the firmware automatically.

Using the alignment posts, place the tobii eye-tracker module on the display bezel and snap it into place.

Post-requisites

1 Follow the procedure from step 2 to step 4 in "Replacing the display bezel".
2 Replace the display assembly.
3 Replace the system-board assembly.
4 Replace the computer base.
5 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
6 Replace the memory modules.
7 Replace the solid-state drive.
8 Replace the wireless card.
9 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
10 Replace the base cover.

Removing the logo board

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the logo board - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.
7 Remove the memory modules.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.
9 Remove the display assembly.
10 Remove the display bezel.

Procedure

1 Remove the two screws (M2x3) that secure the logo board to the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

2 Turn the logo board over.

1 2

3 Disconnect the tron-light cable from the logo board.
4 Pull the latch that secures the Alienhead cable to the logo board.
5 Disconnect the Alienhead cable from the logo board.
6 Disconnect the logo-board cable from the logo board.
7 Disconnect the tron-light cable from the logo board.

8 Lift the logo board off the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

Diagram showing a device with numbered annotations pointing to internal components, likely illustrating a mechanical or electronic assembly.

Replacing the logo board

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the logo board - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Connect the tron-light cables, the logo-board cable, and the Alienhead cable to the logo board.
2 Push the latch that secures the Alienhead cable to the logo board.
3 Turn the logo board over.
4 Using the alignment post, place the logo board on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
5 Align the screw holes on the logo board with the screw holes on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
6 Replace the two screws (M2x3) that secure the logo board to the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the display bezel.
2 Replace the display assembly.
3 Replace the system-board assembly.
4 Replace the memory modules.
5 Replace the computer base.
6 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
7 Replace the solid-state drive.
8 Replace the wireless card.
9 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
10 Replace the base cover.

Removing the display panel

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the display panel - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the memory modules.
6 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
7 Remove the computer base.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.
9 Remove the display assembly.
10 Remove the display bezel.
11 Remove the logo board.

Procedure

1 Remove the four screws (M2x3) that secure the display panel to the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

2 Gently lift the display panel and turn it over.

Diagram showing a device with two labeled components (1 and 2) and a blue curved arrow indicating rotation or movement.

3 Peel the tape that secures the display cable to the display panel.
4 Open the latch and disconnect the display cable from the display panel.

5 Lift the display panel off the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

Diagram illustrating the step-by-step assembly of a device with labeled parts and directional arrows indicating motion.

Replacing the display panel

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the display panel - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Slide the display cable into the connector on the display panel and close the latch to secure the cable.
2 Adhere the tape that secures the display cable to the display panel.
3 Turn the display panel over and gently place it on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
4 Align the screw holes on the display panel with the screw holes on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
5 Replace the four screws (M2x3) that secure the display panel to the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the logo board.
2 Replace the display bezel.
3 Replace the display assembly.
4 Replace the system-board assembly.
5 Replace the computer base.
6 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
7 Replace the memory modules.
8 Replace the solid-state drive.
9 Replace the wireless card.
11 Replace the base cover.

10 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".

Removing the camera

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the camera - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.
7 Remove the memory modules.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.
9 Remove the display assembly.
10 Remove the display bezel.

Procedure

1 Using a plastic scribe, pry the camera module from the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
2 Disconnect the camera cable from the camera module.

3 Lift the camera module from the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

Diagram showing a hand installing or adjusting a device with labeled parts, including numbered steps 1, 2, and 3.

Replacing the camera

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the camera - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Connect the camera cable to the camera module.
2 Using the alignment posts, place the camera module on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
3 Adhere the camera module to the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the display bezel.
2 Replace the display assembly.
3 Replace the system-board assembly.
4 Replace the memory modules.
5 Replace the computer base.
6 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
7 Replace the solid-state drive.
8 Replace the wireless card.
9 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
10 Replace the base cover.

Removing the display hinges

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the display hinges - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 4 in "Removing the hard drive".
3 Remove the wireless card.
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.
7 Remove the memory modules.
8 Remove the system-board assembly.
9 Remove the display assembly.
10 Remove the display bezel.

Procedure

1 Remove the hinge caps and lift them off the hinges.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

natural_image 3D diagram of a device with two zoomed-in views showing internal components (no text or symbols)

2 Turn the display assembly over.

3 Remove the display cable from the routing guide on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

4 Remove the tobii eye-tracker board cable from the routing guide on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

5 Remove the logo board cable from the routing guide on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

6 Remove the wireless-antenna cables from the routing guide on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

Labeled diagram of an electronic device showing internal components and cable connections

7 Peel off the tape that secures the display hinge to the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
8 Remove the 12 screws (M2.5x3) that secure the hinges to the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

9 Lift the hinges from the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

Diagram of a device rear panel with numbered components and an inset close-up showing internal components with blue arrows indicating motion.

Replacing the display hinges

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the display hinges - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Align the screw holes on the display hinges with the screw holes on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
2 Replace the 12 screws (M2.5x3) that secure the display hinges to the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
3 Replace the tape that secures the display hinge to the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
4 Route the antenna cables, power-button board cable, logo-board cable, tobii eye-tracker board cable, and display cable through the routing guides on the display back-cover and antenna assembly.
5 Turn the display assembly over.
6 Place the hinge caps on the display hinges and press down to snap them into place.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the display bezel.
2 Replace the display assembly.
3 Replace the system-board assembly.
4 Replace the memory modules.
5 Replace the computer base.
6 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
7 Replace the solid-state drive.
8 Replace the wireless card.
9 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 7 in "Replacing the hard drive".
10 Replace the base cover.

Removing the display back-cover and antenna assembly

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Removing the display back-cover and antenna assembly - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Prerequisites

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Remove the wireless card.
3 Follow the procedure from step 1 to step 3 in "Removing the hard drive".
4 Remove the solid-state drive.
5 Remove the rear-I/O cover.
6 Remove the computer base.
7 Remove the battery.
8 Remove the memory modules.
9 Remove the system-board assembly.
10 Remove the display assembly.
11 Remove the display bezel.
12 Remove the camera.
13 Remove the logo board.
14 Remove the display panel.
15 Remove the display hinges.

Procedure

1 Peel off the display cable, logo-board cable, and camera cable from the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 1

natural_image Top-down view of a computer monitor with visible circuit board and cable, showing no text or symbols

2 After performing all the above steps, you are left with the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Procedure - 2

natural_image Top-down view of a device's internal structure showing grid layout and components (no text or symbols visible)

Replacing the display back-cover and antenna assembly

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Replacing the display back-cover and antenna assembly - 1

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer and follow the steps in Before working inside your computer. After working inside your computer, follow the instructions in After working inside your computer. For more safety best practices, see the Regulatory Compliance home page at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

Procedure

1 Place the display back-cover and antenna assembly on a clean and flat surface.
2 Adhere the display cable, logo-board cable, and camera cable to the display back-cover and antenna assembly.

Post-requisites

1 Replace the display hinges.
2 Replace the display panel.
3 Replace the logo board.
4 Replace the camera.
5 Replace the display bezel.
6 Replace the display assembly.
7 Replace the system-board assembly.
8 Replace the memory modules.
9 Replace the battery.
10 Replace the computer base.
11 Replace the rear-I/O cover.
12 Replace the solid-state drive.
14 Replace the wireless card.
15 Replace the base cover.

13 Follow the procedure from step 4 to step 6 in "Replacing the hard drive".

The BIOS manages data flow between the computer's operating system and attached devices such as the hard disk, video adapter, keyboard, mouse, and printer.

Entering the BIOS setup program

1 Turn on or restart your computer.
2 Press F2 when the Dell logo is displayed on the screen to enter the BIOS setup program.

You can change the user-definable settings in BIOS setup program.

Timing key sequences

The keyboard is not the first device initialized by the BIOS setup program. As a result, if you press a keystroke too early, the keyboard is locked out. In such cases, a keyboard error message is displayed on the screen, and you cannot restart your computer with the Ctrl+Alt+Del key combination.

To prevent the keyboard from locking, wait until the keyboard is initialized completely. The keyboard is initialized if one of the following occurs:

  • The keyboard lights flash.
  • The F2=Setup prompt appears at the top-right corner of the screen during boot.

System Setup Options

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - System Setup Options - 1

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

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.

Main

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 L1 Cache Displays the processor L1 cache size.

CPU L2 Cache Displays the processor L2 cache size.

CPU L3 Cache Displays the processor L3 cache size.

Integrated Graphics Displays the integrated graphics.

Discrete Graphics 1 Displays the first discrete graphics installed on your computer.

First HDD Displays the type of hard drive installed.

Second HDD Displays the type of secondary hard-drive installed.

Third HDD Displays the type of third hard-drive installed.

Fourth HDD Displays the type of fourth hard-drive installed.

M.2 PCIe SSD-1 Displays the type of primary SSD installed.

M.2 PCIe SSD-2 Displays the type of secondary SSD installed.

M.2 PCIe SSD-3 Displays the type of third SSD installed.

Advanced

Intel(R) SpeedStep Technology

Allows you to enable or disable Intel (R) Speedstep Technology.

Advanced

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Advanced - 1

NOTE: If enabled, the processor clock speed and core voltage are adjusted dynamically based on the processor load.

Default: Enabled

Virtualization Allows you to enable or disable the

Intel Virtualization technology.

Default: Enabled

VT for Direct I/O Specify whether a Virtual Machine

Monitor (VMM) can utilize the additional hardware capabilities provided by Intel Virtualization Technology for Direct I/O.

Integrated NIC Allows you to enable or disable the

on-board LAN controller.

Default: Enabled

USB Emulation Allows you to enable or disable 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.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Advanced - 2

NOTE: You cannot boot any type of USB device (floppy, hard drive, or memory key) when this option is off.

Default: Enabled

USB PowerShare Allows you to charge USB devices

when the computer is turned off or in standby mode.

Default: Enabled

USB Wake Support Allows you to enable USB devices to

wake the computer from standby or to disable the USB wake support feature.

Advanced

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Advanced - 1

NOTE: If USB PowerShare is enabled, a device connected to the USB PowerShare connector may not wake the computer.

Default: Disabled

SATA Operation Allows you to configure the

operating mode of the integrated SATA hard drive controller.

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: Function key

Express Charge Allows you to charge your computer

battery using Standard Charge or Express Charge mode.

Default: Express Charge

Touchpad Backlight Allows you to configure the touchpad

backlight option.

Battery Health Displays the battery health.

Intel Software Guard Extensions Allows you to enable of disable the

Intel Software Guard Extensions

Default: Disabled

BIOS Recovery Enable the user to recover from

certain corrupted BIOS conditions from a recovery file on the user primary hard drive

Default: Enabled

Performance Options

SupportAssist System Resolution

Advanced

Auto OS Recovery Threshold Control the automatic boot flow for SupportAssist System Resolution Console and for Dell OS Recovery tool.

Security

Unlock Setup Status Displays if the setup status is unlocked.

Admin Password Status Displays if the administrator password is clear or set. Default: Not set

System password Status Displays if the system password is clear or set. Default: Not set

HDD password Status Displays if the HDD 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.

HDD password Allows you to set, change or delete the hard-disk drive password.

Password Change Allows you to permit or deny system password or HDD password changes. Default: Permitted

Computrace Enable or disable the BIOS module interface of the optional Computrace Service from Absolute Software.

Firmware TPM

Security

UEFI Capsule Firmware Updates Enable or disable BIOS updates through UEFI capsule update packages.

Boot

Boot List Option Displays the available boot options.

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

File Browser Del Boot Option Allows to delete the boot options

Secure Boot Enable or disable the secure boot feature.

Legacy Option ROMs Enable or disable the Legacy Option ROMs.

Boot Option Priorities Displays the boot sequence.

Boot Option #1 Displays the available first boot option.

Boot Option #2 Displays the available second boot option.

Boot Option #3 Displays the available third boot option.

Exit

Save Changes and Reset Allows you to exit system setup and save your changes.

Discard Changes and Reset Allows you to exit system setup and load previous values for all system setup options.

Restore Defaults Allows you to restore default values for all system setup options.

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

Save Changes Allows you to save the changes for all system setup options.

Clearing forgotten passwords

Contact Dell technical support to clear the forgotten passwords, see www.dell.com/contactdell.

Clearing CMOS settings

1 Remove the base cover.
2 Remove the battery.
3 Remove the coin-cell battery.
4 Wait for one minute.
5 Replace the coin-cell battery.
6 Replace the battery.
7 Replace the base cover.

Flashing the BIOS

You may need to flash (update) the BIOS when an update is available or when you replace the system board. To flash the BIOS:

1 Turn on your computer.
2 Go to www.dell.com/support.
3 Click Product support, enter the Service Tag of your computer, and then click Submit.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Flashing the BIOS - 1

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

4 Click Drivers & downloads → Find it myself.

5 Select the operating system installed on your computer.

6 Scroll down the page and expand BIOS.

7 Click Download to download the latest version of the BIOS for your computer.

8 After the download is complete, navigate to the folder where you saved the BIOS update file.

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

Boot menu

This computer includes a one-time boot menu. By using this feature, you can change the sequence of devices that your computer attempts to boot from, for example, CD-ROM, hard drive, or network.

Boot menu enhancements

The boot menu enhancements are as follows:

  • Easier access — Press F12 to access the boot selection menu.
  • User prompting — The user is prompted to use the keystroke on the BIOS screen.
  • Diagnostics options — The boot menu includes the ePSA diagnostic options.

Diagnostics

Power and battery-status light: Indicates the power and battery-charge status.

Solid amber – Computer is running on battery and the battery has less than 10 percent charge.

User-defined color (AC mode) – Power adapter is connected and the battery is fully charged.

User-defined color (Battery mode) – Computer is running on battery and the battery has more than 10 percent charge.

User-defined color (Breath) – Computer is in sleep state.

Off – Computer is in hibernation, or turned off.

The power and battery-status light blinks red and blue along with beep codes indicating 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 light patterns and what they indicate.

Light Pattern Problem description

2,1 CPU failure
2,2 System board: BIOS and ROM failure
2,3 No memory or RAM detected
2,4 Memory or RAM failure
2,5 Invalid memory installed
2,6 System board or chipset error
2,7 LCD failure
3,1 CMOS battery failure
3,2 PCI/video card failure
3,3 Recovery image not found
3,4 Recovery image found but invalid

Camera status light: Indicates whether the camera is in use.

  • Solid white – Camera is in use.
  • Off – Camera is not in use.

Caps Lock status light: Indicates whether Caps Lock is enabled or disabled.

  • Solid white – Caps Lock enabled.
  • Off – Caps Lock disabled.

Network port light: Indicates network connectivity.

  • Off – No network connection.
  • Solid green – 10 Mbps connection.
  • Solid orange – 100 Mbps connection.
  • Solid yellow – 1000 Mbps connection.
  • Flicker yellow – Network activity.

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:

Information about Alienware products www.alienware.com and services

Dell Help & Support app

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Self-help resources - 1

Get started app

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Self-help resources - 2

Accessing help In Windows search, type Help and Support, and press Enter.

Online help for operating system www.dell.com/support/windows www.dell.com/support/linux

Tobii eye-tracker and Tobii EyeX www.tobii.com

Troubleshooting information, user manuals, setup instructions, product specifications, technical help blogs, drivers, software updates, and so on

www.alienware.com/gamingservices

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.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Contacting Alienware - 1

NOTE: Availability varies by country and product, and some services may not be available in your country.

ALIENWARE 17 R4 - Contacting Alienware - 2

NOTE: If you do not have an active internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.

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Product information

Brand : ALIENWARE

Model : 17 R4

Category : Laptop