Need help?Do you have a question about the Alienware AW568 and is the answer not in the manual?
Step-by-step guide to download and install the Alienware Control Center software.
Customize lighting effects for the Alienhead logo and AlienFX tron lighting.
Customize keystrokes for the programmable macro keys using the software.
Change basic keyboard settings like button functions and sleep timers.
Solutions for when the keyboard is not responding or functioning.
Troubleshooting steps for when the keyboard lighting is off.
Step-by-step guide to download and install the Alienware Control Center software.
Customize lighting effects for the Alienhead logo and AlienFX tron lighting.
Customize keystrokes for the programmable macro keys using the software.
Change basic keyboard settings like button functions and sleep timers.
Solutions for when the keyboard is not responding or functioning.
Troubleshooting steps for when the keyboard lighting is off.
The Alienware Advanced Gaming Keyboard AW568 is a high-performance peripheral designed to enhance the gaming experience with its iconic Alienware design, customizable features, and responsive mechanical keys. This user's guide provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, configuring, and troubleshooting the keyboard, ensuring users can maximize its potential.
The Alienware Advanced Gaming Keyboard AW568 serves as a primary input device for computers, specifically tailored for gaming. Its core function is to provide precise and rapid keystroke input, essential for competitive gaming. Beyond standard keyboard functionality, it integrates advanced features such as programmable macro keys, customizable RGB lighting, and dedicated multimedia controls, all managed through the Alienware Control Center software. The keyboard is designed to offer a competitive edge by allowing users to personalize their input and visual feedback, creating an immersive and efficient gaming environment.
The AW568 keyboard boasts a range of features designed for optimal gaming performance and user comfort:
Programmable Macro Keys (5): Located on the left side of the keyboard, these keys allow users to assign custom keystrokes or sequences of actions. This feature is crucial for executing complex in-game commands with a single press, providing a significant advantage in fast-paced games. The functionality of these macro keys can be easily customized using the Alienware Control Center, enabling software recording of keystrokes.
Multimedia Keys: Dedicated audio control buttons are integrated into the keyboard, offering convenient access to volume adjustments and media playback controls without interrupting gameplay. This ensures quick and seamless management of audio settings.
Three-Angle Adjustable Feet: The keyboard is equipped with adjustable feet that allow users to customize the tilt to three different angles. This ergonomic design feature helps users find the most comfortable typing and gaming position, reducing strain during extended sessions.
Alienhead Logo and AlienFX Tron Lighting: The keyboard features the iconic Alienhead logo and AlienFX tron lighting, both of which are customizable. Users can load custom lighting effects for these elements, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of their gaming setup. The Alienware Control Center provides extensive options to change the lighting effects, allowing for personalized visual feedback.
AlienFX RGB Lighting System: A standout feature, AlienFX is an RGB lighting system that offers 16.8 million colors for ambient lighting. This system is designed to bring users closer to the worlds they play in, with dynamic lighting effects that can be tied directly to in-game action. This creates a more immersive and responsive gaming experience.
Brown-Mechanical Keys: The AW568 utilizes brown-mechanical switches, which are designed to cater to all gamers, from novices to experts. These switches provide solid tactile feedback with a low actuation force and low click noise. This balance offers a satisfying typing experience without being overly loud, making them suitable for various gaming genres and general use.
Anti-Ghosting and N-Key Rollover: These critical features ensure that every keystroke is registered accurately, even when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously. Anti-ghosting prevents missed inputs, while N-key rollover allows for an unlimited number of simultaneous key presses to be detected. This is vital for complex key combinations often used in gaming, ensuring no command is lost.
1000 Hz (1ms) Polling Rate: A high polling rate means the keyboard communicates with the computer 1000 times per second, resulting in a rapid 1-millisecond response time. This ultra-fast response minimizes input lag, providing a smooth and responsive gaming experience where every action is registered almost instantaneously.
Game Mode: The keyboard includes a "Game Mode" function, which can be activated to disable specific keys like the Windows key, Left-Shift key, Tab key, Alt key, and Application key. This prevents accidental interruptions during intense gaming sessions, ensuring uninterrupted focus on the game.
Ambient Light Adjustment: Users can adjust the intensity of the ambient light strip and the Alienhead logo lighting using dedicated FN key combinations (FN + F7 to decrease, FN + F8 to increase). This allows for quick on-the-fly adjustments to suit different lighting environments or personal preferences.
FN Toggle: The FN toggle function allows users to switch between different FN functions (F1 to F12), providing quick access to various keyboard controls and settings.
Optional Palm Rest: For enhanced comfort during long gaming sessions, an optional palm rest is available (sold separately) that attaches magnetically to the keyboard. This provides additional wrist support, further reducing fatigue.
While the manual primarily focuses on usage and configuration, several aspects contribute to the keyboard's longevity and ease of maintenance:
Durable Mechanical Switches: The brown-mechanical switches are tested for durability to a 50 million cycle life, indicating a robust design built to withstand extensive use over time. This high durability reduces the need for frequent replacements or repairs of individual keys.
Software-Based Configuration: The Alienware Control Center is the central hub for all keyboard customizations, including lighting, macros, and basic settings. This software-driven approach simplifies maintenance by allowing users to update configurations and troubleshoot issues without needing physical adjustments. Regular software updates can also introduce new features or performance improvements.
Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a dedicated troubleshooting section that addresses common issues such as the keyboard not functioning, lighting being off, or problems with the Alienware Control Center. This guide empowers users to diagnose and resolve minor issues independently, reducing the need for professional support. Solutions typically involve simple steps like replugging the keyboard, restarting the system, or ensuring the Alienware Control Center is running and configured correctly.
USB Connectivity: The keyboard connects via a standard USB port, making it easy to connect and disconnect. If issues arise, users can try plugging the keyboard into a different USB port to rule out port-related problems, a simple troubleshooting step.
Regulatory Information and Warranty: The inclusion of regulatory information and warranty details provides users with essential information regarding product compliance and support. Dell-branded products typically come with a 1-year limited hardware warranty, ensuring that users are covered for manufacturing defects, which contributes to long-term peace of mind and potential repair or replacement options.
In summary, the Alienware Advanced Gaming Keyboard AW568 is a feature-rich device designed for serious gamers. Its combination of customizable controls, responsive mechanical keys, and immersive lighting, all managed through intuitive software, provides a powerful and personalized gaming experience. The robust construction and comprehensive troubleshooting support further ensure its reliability and ease of use over time.
General| Purpose | Universal |
|---|---|
| Key pitch | 2 mm |
| Polling rate | 1000 Hz |
| Windows keys | Yes |
| Actuation force | 45 g |
| Keyboard layout | AZERTY |
| Pointing device | No |
| Device interface | USB |
| Keyboard language | French |
| Recommended usage | Gaming |
| Key travel distance | 4 mm |
| Keyboard key switch | Mechanical |
| Keyboard form factor | Full-size (100%) |
| Connectivity technology | Wired |
| Number of height positions | 3 |
| Keyboard keys operating life | 50 million characters |
| Number of programmable (macro) keys | 5 |
| Product color | Black |
| Backlight type | RGB LED |
| Keyboard style | Straight |
| Backlight color | Multicolor |
| Number of colors | 16.8 M |
| Surface coloration | Monochromatic |
| Number of products included | 1 pc(s) |
| Form factor | - |
Weight and Dimensions| Keyboard weight | 1460 g |
|---|---|
| Keyboard dimensions (WxDxH) | 499 x 171.8 x 34.8 mm |
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