Alien FX faults on the m15x

THanks for your reply. I have already done that but the problem still persists. Thanks

Try it this way ...

Install Windows
Install latest Dell drivers in the proper order
Install the latest version of Command Center last.

THanks for your reply. I have already done that but the problem still persists. Thanks

I am very sorry to inform you that the problem lies in the hardware and its not a software issue...I own an M15X myself and I've dealt with this twice in the last 2 months...you'll need to replace your MoBo to fix this issue and I suggest you get on the phone with dell/AW tech suppoty ASAP. this problem occurs when you install the CC from the resource CD and it seems that the CC present in that "DANGER" disk seems to corrupt the firmware for AlienFX lights and hence leading to a hardware crash. there is no other way to recover from this and the only solution is to replace the h/w.

Call dell and they should send u a replacement part. i wonder why dell is still giving out those older resource disk with brand new system as well ??? or may be they just like to replace mobo one too many times ???

It happened to more than 90% of the owners of M15X and looks like dell is going for a world record this time..most mobos replaced for brand new systems !!!

Sometimes, simply running the MIO-Board/Alien-FX diags in the F12 Utility Partition will reset the MIO Board. Then the Command Center will be able to find it.

Since the Command Center also includes a Flash Firmware for the MIO Board, you should always use the latest version. This will ensure the flash and drivers are the same or newer than the version currently on the board. They don't like going backwards (to older versions).

There might be a MIO-Board Reset Config jumper or switch ... but since the Service Manual doesn't show it, I couldn't tell you where it is. Seems like it would be near the RAM cavity or something (so you only have to easily remove a small cover to get to it). Ask service tech or advanced user if it even exists. If there is no switch or jumper, there might be a DOS level program you can run (outside Windows).

Shailesh12,

I posted a sticky on this. Will change it to an Announcement. maybe people will notice it then.

@ Chris,

But what happens when it's too late? On the laptops, what is the equivalent of the Reset Jumper we have on the MIO Boards in our desktops?

On laptops, you have to get the motherboard replaced.