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    Alienware TactX Keyboard Not the best choice for Non-Alienware desktop

    Discussion in 'Accessories' started by markula, Nov 4, 2011.

  1. markula

    markula Notebook Enthusiast

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    hello i just got the Dell Alienware TactX Keyboard i went to install the software and all i get is keyboard settings no color changing where do i download the right driver for Dell Alienware TactX Multimedia Gaming Keyboard P895N?

    i am running windows 7 64bit 16gb ram X4 XFX Radeon HD 6970 video cards 1200 watt power supply

    i even downloaded the Alienware TactX CI software build 130C that did not show any colors at all

    i also downloaded Command Center it just gives me errors

    i got the keyboard from dells website my desktop is a custom made desktop
    that should not matter as it is only a keyboard with backlights on it why is this not working for me???

    thank you
     
  2. katalin_2003

    katalin_2003 NBR Spectre Super Moderator

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    Here you go:
    -uninstall your current Command Center version and reboot.
    - install this one and make sure both keyboard USB are plugged.
    -enjoy and next time don't claim something if you didn't research :rolleyes:
     
  3. markula

    markula Notebook Enthusiast

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    PLEASE READ EVERYTHING

    thank you but that did not work platform not compatible it said could not install it

    like i said in the post this is only for dell Alienware desktops

    i need a download for NON ALIENWARE DESKTOPS

    i have a CUSTOM MADE DESKTOP BY EVGA

    I went to dell.com buy the keyboard install the drivers and software and nothing works why in the hell would dell sell this on there website when its only made to work with Alienware desktops and laptops only??????

    thats junk if you ask me

    thank you

    ps if some one made it work for non dell alienware desktops please i would love to download it and install it

    The Dell Command Center is designed to check for a Dell system. I would not load it.

    see junk do not buy from dells website they dont tell you that the keyboard only works on dell computers thats junk to me

    but i think its a small scrip that can be fixed to run on non dell systems
     
  4. HookemAZ

    HookemAZ Notebook Consultant

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    Many people use this product with minimal to no issues what so ever. You either have a bad egg or you are doing something wrong. Also, I called you a troll because of the blatant disregard for punctuation in your posts. If you are not a troll, then my apologies, but please put a little effort into your typing for the sake of our sanity.

    As for the your issue. It certainly does work with machines not AW, so either it's a driver issue or you have a bad product and need to return it. I hope you get it worked out.
     
  5. markula

    markula Notebook Enthusiast

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    This does not work for NON DELL SYSTEMS.

    pimsley please point me to the right download for NON DELL SYSTEMS driver software as the post with this drive is for AW systems

    :::::::Compatibility::::::: .6.17.0 Command Center for Desktops, A05 this driver does not work i have been in the IT world for over 21 years
    never had a problem there is nothing wrong with my 7 computer at home and the office there is nothing wrong with the keyboard just can not install the drivers on NON DELL SYSTEMS.

    Systems Operating systems
    Alienware Desktop Area-51/Area-51 ALX
    Alienware Desktop Aurora/Aurora ALX
    Alienware Desktop Aurora-R2
    Alienware Desktop Aurora-R3

    http://support.us.dell.com/support/downloads/download.aspx?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs&releaseid=R308775&formatcnt=0&libid=0&typeid=-1&dateid=-1&formatid=-1&source=-1&fileid=466036


    pimsley please point me to the right download for NON DELL SYSTEMS driver software

    i just did a new install and nothing i downloaded A03

    this is what it is saying

    this installation package is not compatible with this platform
     
  6. CGSDR

    CGSDR Alien Master Race

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    This is the reason your keyboard does NOT working, it need that command centre to get the keyboard working. And btw it is called Alienware Command Centre, not Dell, anyway the command centre is like both application for the AlienFX and a driver for your Windows as a key to recognize the keyboard lightFX.

    My friend also bought it but she bought it with the M14x and she said it work like a charm. And also it is can be your fault that you didnt research or check properly to make sure that it will work on a Non-Dell/Alienware computer.

    PS It is NOT a major junk, it is you though, that's careless not to check it.
     
  7. Alex

    Alex Super Moderator

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    @ markula

    I changed the thread title to reflect your issues
     
  8. evilras

    evilras Notebook Consultant

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    Any chance you can change his attitiude as well?! Not going to get anywhere on a community forum talking to people like that! We're here to help! Not to yell at!
     
  9. markula

    markula Notebook Enthusiast

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    evilras,
    Are you trying to get more post count? if you have a fix then great if not we dont care what you are thinking i see you just joined welcome to notebook review :)
     
  10. markula

    markula Notebook Enthusiast

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    ThanX Alex i was pissed as for dells website does say works with any computer. It is going back due to not working with any computer just dells aka Alienware. thats junk to me.

    @ CGSDR yes Alienware is dell. CGSDR i see you just joined Notebook review Welcome.

    I see you like to post with out a fix are you trying to bump up your post count?

    please don't post if you don't have a fix or have something that will work thank you.

    and again welcome to notebook review.
     
  11. katalin_2003

    katalin_2003 NBR Spectre Super Moderator

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    Markula, if you can wait a little I can test mine on a non AW desktop and give you the results (tomorrow hopefully).
    I am running mine with a area-51 ALX case but with a Gigabyte mobo and it works.
    Now I can't tell you if It's because the cases's MIO board or it just does.
     
  12. CGSDR

    CGSDR Alien Master Race

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    I just want to help and share the knowledge I did not do this for post count, to me the post count or join date is nothing, knowledge and experience is more important, have a look at my recent post if you like if you think I did it for the count, but thanks for the feedback.

    But as I know, it should work with any computer since it is just a peripheral, as long as you install its driver usually it come with that peripheral (Most peripheral do) then there's no reason why it wouldnt work, If you bought it from Dell then I'm sure that it would also has a warranty or technical service, why not call them to see if it is just your computer or it is a faulty keyboard anyway good luck with the keyboard :)

    PS This one post of mine would be the last in here, since it's look like I'm not welcome here though. :(
     
  13. ratchetnclank

    ratchetnclank Notebook Deity

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    Can the msi for the Alienware command center be hacked to make it install by opening in ORCA then delete the custom action which checks for alienware PC's?
     
  14. evilras

    evilras Notebook Consultant

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    Markula, I'm just saying, instead of bounding on all guns blazing yelling at us being wrong, try pointing that at dell! People ARE trying to help you and you're getting peoples backs up!

    As with any technical equipment, ensure you read the instructions! Try stripping the enum items out of the registry to ensure the keyboard looks for new drivers. Install the drivers and any pre-requisite software BEFORE plugging in the keyboard. Have you tried calling dell or logging a support ticket too?

    We ARE trying to help, and if you actually listen to the responses and learn to count to 10 before posting, i think we will all have a better experience.

    As for posting just to get my post count it, i'm really not that sad. i will input wherever i can to any thread. And my current expertise is in getting bargains and helping people buy an alienware to begin with.

    I manage a world leading service desk of 50 people, so i will ask my employees if they have any other input into this. But PLEASE ensure you have logged this with dell/alienware, as its their equipment! NBR members will do their best to help, but we're not technical support!
     
  15. Alex

    Alex Super Moderator

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    Wondering that as well
     
  16. skygunner27

    skygunner27 A Genuine Child of Zion

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  17. ratchetnclank

    ratchetnclank Notebook Deity

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    Ok so i managed to mess with the msi to get to install on non alienware pc's.

    It gave me a .net error when running the alienfx program on my acer but its just because it couldnt find a controller for the lights.

    Uploaded to mediafire for you.
    Command Center.rar
     
  18. skygunner27

    skygunner27 A Genuine Child of Zion

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    just download .net to fix.
     
  19. YellowApple_

    YellowApple_ Notebook Guru

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    The tactx keyboard works fine with my alienware M18x, and it works as it should with my hp touchsmart 550iq all in one desktop (with the alienware commend center fully installed of course).
     
  20. flynnaz

    flynnaz I am a Night Elf Mohawk!

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    The tactx Mouse and Keyboard both work on my Gateway P-7850u FX with no issue using Command Center.
     
  21. aeroflynn

    aeroflynn Newbie

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    I have lost my driver and Utilities CD for the Alienware TactX Keyboard and can NOT find it. [ OVER THREE DAYS OF TRYING TO FIND IT AT HOME AND ON DELL SUPPORT SITE ] Its not on DELL's site.
    That is the BIG problem..
    I guess I have to order the keyboard again just to get the CD to get the LED's too work.
    Then send it back after copying the CD.
    This is for a non dell system,
    and it has worked fine on it with the CD software
    I'am POed
     
  22. TearTaker

    TearTaker Notebook Evangelist

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    Why don't you call alienware or dell and see if you can get they to help you?
     
  23. hockeymass

    hockeymass that one guy

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    Yeah, no. Call Dell and they will tell you where to download the software.
     
  24. aeroflynn

    aeroflynn Newbie

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    I have call DELL three times, and once asked for supervisor but the supervisor
    was not available.
    The support person could not grasp the fact that the LED color change software is what is missing, but keyboard key assign software is on DELL.
    As mentioned earlier in the post, I too have downloaded and tried all available
    drivers and once again the popup says [ this not DELL system ].........
    DELL WHAT IS THE BIG DEAL ?
    you sold the keyboard NOW support it.
    Also I have two alienware laptops, probably my last...... unless they come up with passive 3D...
    I am still POed
     
  25. ViciousXUSMC

    ViciousXUSMC Master Viking NBR Reviewer

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    <s>Alienware</s> Razer Keyboards.... Ugh I have had bad luck.

    Worst quality mechanical keyboard I ever laid fingers on was the Black Widow Ultimate.

    BTW why do you want a keyboard, is it for pretty flashy colored lights, or is it because you seek a higher quality keyboard for durability, ergonomics, and ease of use?

    If its the later, get a mechanical keyboard. If you wanted the flashy pew pew color lights just so you can see keys in the dark they do have mech keyboards with backlight.

    I have a Poker X on the way with Cherry MX Reds, and white pbt keys. Its ultra small so ideal for laptop use and just today I found a group buy for the RACE and the RACE looks absolutely awesome because its just a tad bigger than the poker (dedicated arrow keys making it better for gaming) and has a backlight.

    RACE Keyboard - OFFICIAL PRE-ORDER / PRE-PAYMENT INSTRUCTIONS!!!!

    Bah wish I got paid for reviews of these things so I could order it.
     
  26. Mastershroom

    Mastershroom wat

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    That's Razer, not Alienware.
     
  27. ViciousXUSMC

    ViciousXUSMC Master Viking NBR Reviewer

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    Oh pfft lol, well I didnt even know AW made a keyboard.

    Still does not change anything I said though.

    I got the two confused as they are both just overpriced fan based products

    ::runs away::
     
  28. DEagleson

    DEagleson Gamer extraordinaire

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    While they both might be overpriced compared to the competition, im thinking that Dell / Alienware might have better driver support than Razer.
    I know my little brothers desktop build have been used with at least 3 different Razer mice and they all needed a separate driver install to enable the extra features. D;

    Wonder if the Alienware keyboard would work on OSX or random Linux distro? :confused:
     
  29. Mastershroom

    Mastershroom wat

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    Razer drivers and software have been reliable, in my experience. Yes, there are different drivers for different products, but I would hardly call that an actual problem unless you regularly use three or four different models with your computer. And once you use the software to configure your device settings the way you like, you can do away with the software completely; the mouse stores those settings in onboard memory.

    And from what I've read, they have very good OS X support, with drivers/config software for all of their products available. They also have Mac layouts available for their keyboards, and the DeathAdder even used to come in a white-lit Mac edition.
     
  30. Spydur

    Spydur Notebook Enthusiast

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    Can we get back on topic. So far the tactx mouse software doesn't work with a non alienware system. Frankly I Think that is BS considering they sell it with no warnings that the software looks for alienware systems only. BTW the alienware KB/Mouse is made by Logitech mouse is a redesigned G9x.
     
  31. Layce68

    Layce68 Newbie

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    I am having the same issue as the original poster with my keyboard. I have called dell/aw support and they want to charge me to get the AlienFx Back lighting installed/configured. I am not that tech savvy to be able to go in and play with/change the software myself that some have suggested (if I read that right.)

    My question is: Is there a modified version of the AW software that allows you to have access to the LED feature on non Dell computers?



    Thank you for your time
    Layce
     
  32. Banshee51

    Banshee51 Newbie

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    Layce,

    Try the solution kindly given by rathetnclank on post 17 of this thread (you may need tio download winRAR first (this is free) just tried it and it worked for me.

    Thank you ratchet
     
  33. Layce68

    Layce68 Newbie

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    Banshee,

    Thank you so much for pointing that out to me. I saw that but was not sure about it.

    Ratchet.. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for taking your time and doing that.

    I wanted purple lighting for my new comp but was not sure how to do that. lol this is the next best thing.
    Yeah! I got the keyboard partly for the pretty lights !

    What can I say, its the girl in me and the bling factor!

    Thanks again guys!
    Layce
     
  34. h00t

    h00t Notebook Enthusiast

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    about to pull the trigger and get me a set. any updates on long term usage?
     
  35. kati_v123

    kati_v123 Newbie

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    Just joined to post here.
    1. I wanted to say thanks for the download link, i've had my keyboard a while and the command center had disappeared, looked everywhere and couldnt seem to find anything.
    2. To the poster h00t.. i have had this keyboard for quite a few years and by far the best one i have bought, never had any problems in regards to usage, keys breaking, falling, becoming sticky or anything. I use my all days for hours on end, i still have every detail on my keys aswell no fading. Take the plunge, i know you posted a few months ago but just felt the need to vouch for this keyboard.
    :)
     
  36. Treyb2323

    Treyb2323 Newbie

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    I was in the middle of bidding on one of these keyboards when I found this Thread.

    THANK YOU SO MUCH

    The modified installer has worked and i look forward to testing it out with my TactX.

    MUCH APPRECIATION
     
  37. YvesD

    YvesD Newbie

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    My son had its DELL Alienware at 1500€ working for 4 months, then the keyboard did not work anymore

    DELL charged me 250€ for a new keyboard which did not solve anything.

    DELL wants now to replace the motherboard for another 450€ while I told them the motherboard is ok since the computer still works with an external keyboard.
     
  38. ziozioism

    ziozioism Newbie

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    hi guys
    I already installed the Alienware fx in post 17 and the KB driver, but my keyboard still have no backlight except the num lock, capslock and scrolllock. Does it mean my keyboard is broken or just the software problem. Any suggest to fix it?
    Plz help me this :(
    thanks a lot.
     
  39. ziozioism

    ziozioism Newbie

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    hey guys, can you help me this?