Alienware Aurora R1 CPU question

Exactly what motherboard will end-up in the Aurora-R1? What motherboard are you going to try installing that Intel i7-990x in?

You should know that no Intel 6-core/12-thread processors where ever sold pre-installed in Aurora-R1 (those where reserved for Area51-R1). While the motherboards in Aurora-R1 and Area51-R1 were similar, there are differences. Also, each line had it's own unique BIOS (and therefore unique "allowed processor list" micro-code).

Historically (according to forum user reports), processors not optionally pre-installed or "sold-in" a certain Alienware desktop end up not working. Dell only validates configs they sell. Don't assume everything works together (like if it was retail after-market components).

It is a nos aurora r1 motherboard. Looking at the x58 chip set it says the

i7 990x is usable. Also the MSI website said it would work with their

board. This is why I was asking.

Try google search 'Alienware Aurora 990x', but here's a forum search of same. AAA737flyer‌ claimed success:

• Great results with 6950's new TIM and 990x
• Still amazed at the 990x temps with Prime95
• click his profile page, select 'follow', u might be able to private message about 990x in R1 mthrbrd
• 980x was the top validated CPU
• u will need Bios A10 or A11 flashed 1st, before trying
• obtain 980x if 990x fails to work, be careful installing CPU / do not bend any pins & apply good thermal paste
• MSI has more thorough / lasting support for their retail boards, where as things happen w/Alien products only if Aliens allow them

That's some good research ‌ . Looks like it might work.

I would suggest a PCIe USB-3 card and a bootable C: SSD to compensate for it only having SATA-2/300 interface on-board.

So the Corsair H75 is a more efficient liquid cooler than the original one

installed in the Aurora? If so can someone supply a comparison?

Randy

Also, does anyone know the cfm capacity of the 2 90mm fans in the Aurora R1?

Randy

Pull the 92mm fans, run the model# through google, search for that data if it exists. Replacement fans should be 4pin PWM type. H75 is the same slim 25mm radiator as the original (but has copper coldplate) = micro upgrade to what u have now. Search 01YGW on eBAY for plug & play 38mm Aurora cooler (has correct black 7pin connector + copper coldplate) for even better upgrade. If u buy 25mm wide fans u could do push / pull as with H75 (requires fan y-splitter cable = 2 fans off of one fan header > seek push-pull fans of .75amps or less)

***ProTip: if switching coolers, re-use your socket 1366 retention ring (01YGW has incorrect socket 2011 ring, for R4 mthrbrds)

whether single-fan or dual-fans (with y-split adapter), plug into Sys_Fan header

Your info is always the most helpful