Introduction
This guide will show the user how to replace a broken touch pad that is not functioning properly on a Dell Alienware 13 laptop.
Tools
- 
                  
                  
- 
            
Remove (2) 5 mm Phillips head screws attaching the small access panel to the base using a Phillips # 1 screwdriver.
 
 - 
            
 - 
                  
                  
- 
            
Remove (4) 6 mm Phillips head screws from the solid-state metal drive bracket, using a Phillips # 1 screwdriver.
 
 - 
            
 - 
                  
                  
- 
            
Grab the pull tab to pivot the solid-state drive bracket upwards. Remove the bracket from the computer base.
 
 - 
            
 - 
                  
                  
- 
            
Remove (2) 3 mm Phillips head screws, using a Phillips # 0 screwdriver, that connect the solid-state drive assembly to the computer base.
 
 - 
            
 - 
                  
                  
- 
            
Locate two cables labeled, "KB Backlight" (orange) and "KB Membrane" (black). Lift up on the latches to disconnect the cables from the system board.
 
 - 
            
 - 
                  
                  
- 
            
Remove (8) 9 mm Phillips head screws using a Phillips # 1 screwdriver, that secures the palm-rest assembly to the computer base.
 - 
            
Remove (4) 8 mm Phillips head screws using a Phillips # 1 screwdriver.
 - 
            
Remove (2) 7 mm Phillips head screws using a Phillips # 1 screwdriver.
 
 - 
            
 - 
                  
                  
- 
            
Lift the computer base slightly towards you and push the release tabs on the palm-rest assembly until it pops out using a spudger.
 
 - 
            
 - 
                  
                  
- 
            
Turn the computer over and open the display as far as possible.
 - 
            
Using a plastic spudger, pry up along the edges of the palm-rest assembly.
 - 
            
Gently lift the palm-rest assembly.
 
 - 
            
 - 
                  
                  
- 
            
Lift the connector latch and disconnect the power-button board cable from the system board. Identified as a cable with a blue tab.
 - 
            
Lift the palm-rest assembly off the computer base.
 
 - 
            
 - 
                  
                  
- 
            
Remove (4) 3 mm Phillips head screws securing the touch pad to the palm rest assembly using a Phillips # 0 screwdriver.
 - 
            
Lift up and remove the touch pad from the palm rest assembly.
 
 - 
            
 
To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.