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possible repair for AlienFX
I have been looking for a way to repair my Alienware since November of last year. After 3 months of creeping forums i have an idea. we all know that the early alienware command center is not compatible with the recent releases. when a user updates the command center to the newest version, then uses alienrespawn or attempts to install the previous version the controller becomes corrupted. While I believe that dell should be held liable for this issue, I have gotten raspberries in response.
NOW, to the theory I have according to the thread here (http://en.community.dell.com/owners-club/alienware/f/3746/t/19392140.aspx?PageIndex=1). The controller is the IC designated C8051F347, this chip when flashed incorrectly becomes a brick and is trash. I have searched and possibly found a way to replace it. First you must buy a replacement chip like this one (http://www.techrepublic.com/photos/cracking-open-the-1800-alienware-m14x-gaming-notebook/6319699?seq=90) and a programer (http://www.silabs.com/products/mcu/Pages/ToolStick.aspx, documentation on the specific model http://www.silabs.com/Support%20Documents/TechnicalDocs/ToolStick_Programming_Adapter_UG.pdf). This will allow you to flash a new chip with the firmware located in the command center folder. Unfortunately you will them have to unsolder the old chip (which on the m17x r1 is located next to the bluetooth adapter on the motherboard.) and solder on the new chip. That should repair the alienfx. Any help with this would be appreciated.
-AshRagnoroK
Cenobitez
348 Posts
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January 23rd, 2012 08:00
There are companies who will do this for you, I found the chips on ebay while looking for inverters for another Dell, and many of the places said they would replace the part for you.
They was located in various places.
So I guess its a case of do you have steady hands and dexterity, as well as being sure you won't touch and melt your board ?
If you think you can, go for it, iff not I'd pay an electrician to do it :)
Tesla1856
8 Wizard
8 Wizard
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17K Posts
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January 23rd, 2012 10:00
See this thread:
en.community.dell.com/.../19392140.aspx
According to the 8051 docs, one of the main advantages of the 8051, is that it can be reprogrammed while still inside any circuit (still soldered onto board). Of course, you need the proper interface and software.
ashragnorok
15 Posts
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January 23rd, 2012 13:00
I have been looking for a in-circuit flasher, however when the flash is corrupted the device does not take commands. i read the flashing information for this IC and it stated that when there is a bad flash the IC is a dud. i cant find the document stating that, sry.
Tesla1856
8 Wizard
8 Wizard
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17K Posts
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January 23rd, 2012 14:00
Well, if it worked that way it would all be rather pointless.
Sure, the USB interface would shut-down, but IIRC, the external interface can always take control to fix a bad flash.
ashragnorok
15 Posts
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January 23rd, 2012 15:00
only one way to find out.
ashragnorok
15 Posts
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January 23rd, 2012 16:00
i have been hoping those guys would see this post. i followed up on most posts here and on notebook review since November. not including the posts i have found on Google. i will try to reflash the chip when i can get the funds together to buy supplies.
Tesla1856
8 Wizard
8 Wizard
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17K Posts
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January 23rd, 2012 16:00
Yep
This is all very techical ... but if you are up for it (or are willing to learn) you will find out. I don't have an AW laptop, but the guys in that other thread did ... look there for some good info and a head-start.