I'm also wondering the same thing. What will happen to that poor msata drive?

I thought the original components need to keep for warranty sake? I've asked Dell before that they recommend to keep the original components. I thought when u need to take the laptop for warranty, u have to swap back the original components in.

I don't think so it can fit 4 2.5" in there. From all of the websites and e3 shows, they actually says that it fits 3 2.5" including ODD caddy. The last one is the msata SSD. That's how they come up with the number. Maybe should just open it up and double check.

EDIT: Looks like someone just answered this

This post has been edited by Aura: Aug 20 2013, 12:10 AM

I'm using 128GB msata. I feel it would be a lot to dispose plus my programs are not small. All also in GBs. Should be enough. But if u wan, u can go for more. No harm also. Up to ur usage.

So good. I envy now.

Correct me if I'm wrong, u need to switch it manually. Try Fn+F5 then restart every time u switch.

Some forums that I've visited also did state that can be automatic as well. I also don't know which one is correct but then after looking at this link -> http://en.community.dell.com/owners-club/a...9/20265797.aspx , I can say that there's settings to set which program u wan Optimus to run using the Nvidia GPU. So, after u set these settings, then it will be by default running Nvidia GPU.

Another thing to note is that when u switch manually, the laptop will tell u which card it switches to I think. If u wan, u can try googling on GPU monitoring software to see which card u r using. Also another option to consider.

Upgrade did I hear? 32GB RAM?

At least u have a machine to play with. I need to wait till 1st week of Sept to get mine. That's what I've been told. It seems that a lot of "rich" ppl who bought Alienware 17s opted for GTX 780M GPUs.

Now on Dell website, Alienware 17 models cannot upgrade to GTX 780Ms anymore until they restock it.

Oh well, which this kind of timeframe, I still can get more upgrades for my machine.

Everybody except me cos no platform to upgrade.

Sure. I'll take that thank you in a form of duit kopi.

P/S: Random google actually

There should be drivers for NIC aka ur network card. Search thru the resource DVD for the drivers. I believe it should be there. If not, u can always download them online using another PC.

U have to disable the cache setting for Intel RST first and check the BIOS setting.

Another helpful link for u peeps here: http://www.alienwarearena.com/forums/topic...a-boot-option-/

I didn't post this initially is because I don't have a machine to try so not sure it can work or not but the person who posted this seems to verify that the steps are legit.

This link is useful for new alienware owners who wanna do msata as a boot option.

I initially wanna do this already after I found out that msata on the AWs is sata 3.

On the AW14 is both LAN and wireless. It is stated in Dell's site that's the standard specs.

Yeah, really. Dell says so.

Quoted from Dell site.

Only the AW17 & 18 is different.

No problem. Add another teh-o in the bill.

I remember that booth. Whenever I pass by, they asked me am I interested in the new Alienware. Then I answered waiting for Dell to deliver to me. Then they give me the okay face.

And yeah, they look a lot better. I pity the older Alienware.

HAHAHAHA!!!

Well, I'm just talking about the one in the picture. I forgot to point it out. Cos in the picture, there's the very big LAST UNIT word. Macam tarak org mau layan. Everyone also go look at the new one.

I'm just talking about the one in the picture because of how they advertise it only. No hard feelings. The current new alienware will be older gen later also. It's just a matter of time.

For me personally, both also have good layout. The only gripe I have on the R4 previously is the glossy screen, the flexing keyboard and less sturdy chassis. Other than that, I feel that both are quite equal.

Maybe, if based on previous track record, should be that long la.... Nvm la.... I know u r waiting for ATI to come out then only u change issit?