NotebookForums.com › Forums › Notebook Manufacturers › Alienware Notebook Forums › Alienware Sentia, M11x and M14x › Notes on AlienArmor 15" Case & Power Question
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:

Notes on AlienArmor 15" Case & Power Question

post #1 of 6
Thread Starter 
Hey guys,
I ordered one of these last week, and, although I don't have a full review written, I do want to say that it is really nice. It's basically a Matias case with a laser-etched logo. It comes with a ton of velcro-backed foam spacers to customize the case to fit exactly. Although it is really well constructed, there is very little room inside for extra stuff, especially with the m3200. I understand that the m3400 is a bit slimmer height-wise, so it might be a better fit for this case. With the extra tall rubber feet on the m3200, it makes it almost too tall to place anything in the top cargo holds. The only way I was able to fit my power adapter and cord in (without worrying about it pushing on the LCD screen when closed) was to create a space for the adapter usign the spacers in the bottom area that holds the notebook.

Which leads me to another question. Since my first notebook I have always used an APC mobile surge protector. The confines of this case really make carrying that strap-on unit nearly impossible. Do any of you guys use a surge protector on your notebook adapter, or is it overkill? The m3200's adapter makes that audible click which makes me think it has some sort of fuse or circuit breaker...but I don't have any information on whether that is in fact true.

As always, opinons appreciated! I'll post some pictures of the case as soon as I can. My MS Bluetooth receiver crapped out several weeks back and I'm still waiting for the replacement to arrive. When I get it, I'll again be able to take pics with my phone and upload 'em.

DC
post #2 of 6
DC: that surge protector is ALWAYS a good idea. Regardless of what internal circuitry exists for electrical spikes, surge protectors add that extra layer of safety. the one you linked to is nice, too bad it's too big. perhaps they make a smaller one? the $5k insurance is nice also.

also, whenever you plug in your ac adaptor, try to remember to plug it into the laptop first, then into the wall. if you do it the opposite way, the adaptor plug may arc to your laptop case and short out the motherboard.
post #3 of 6

Now.....

Quote:
Originally Posted by jaycat
also, whenever you plug in your ac adaptor, try to remember to plug it into the laptop first, then into the wall. if you do it the opposite way, the adaptor plug may arc to your laptop case and short out the motherboard.
THAT I didn't know.....but makes perfect sense when you think about it....thanx, Jaycat
post #4 of 6
PerfectStranger: also, if you have a static-generating polyester office chair in your cubicle, don't forget to remove your ipod earbuds when you stand up, or you may just collapse back down into your chair when the volts shock your skull
post #5 of 6
I have the black AlienArmor 17 inch case and my area51 16 inch screen barely fits. The only thing i can fit in there is the laptop and small stuff but no way can i fit the power block and cord. But other than that its a sweet case with plenty of dividers and such. Plus the quality is nice and sturdy. But i wouldnt buy another one in the future because what good is it if i cant fit everything i need with the laptop.
post #6 of 6
Thread Starter 
Thanks for that tip jaycat! I did notice that the instructions for the m3200 came with a loose-leaf addendum explaining the imperative nature of plugging the power cable into the notebook before the wall. Not sure if any of you have done this...but don't try it. There is a visible spark inside the plug housing on the notebook when you do.

As an update, I picked up one of these Targus mini surge protectors at a local retailer (finally got to use a gift card I've had forever). You have to buy both the 3-prong and 2-prong together, but they're only about $20. It doesn't cover quite the jolt that my old APC could handle...but it is much more compact and does fit in the case! I'll probably use the extra 2-prong on my Xbox or something.


DC
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:
  Return Home
  Back to Forum: Alienware Sentia, M11x and M14x
NotebookForums.com › Forums › Notebook Manufacturers › Alienware Notebook Forums › Alienware Sentia, M11x and M14x › Notes on AlienArmor 15" Case & Power Question