Extremely frustrated and disappointed. I worked thru a "standard" Inspiron 15R potential purchase online but wanted a backlit keyboard. Since I didn't see that option I contacted Dell (via chat) and was told if I wanted a backlit keyboard I would need to purchase a "different" 15R, the 15R Special Edition. Very frustrating. I thought I was getting a really good deal (since the model was on 'sale'). Guess not.
FWIW.... when I called technical support, the person was knowledgeable, pleasant, and genuinely interested in trying to help. Not much he could do though... He transferred me to Customer Support, who also wanted me to be happy, but could only transfer me to a sales associate. The sales associate was able to tell me that for an additional $100, I could send back my computer and get a one with backlighting. Unfortunately, I was already over budget.
Bottom line is this is 90% my own fault. I'll give the chat guy 10% of the blame for telling me that I needed a "15R special edition" which was only part of the story.
Posting so that some one else might avoid the same mistake.
I still don't know whats causing the problem and so far haven't been too impressed with this laptops quality. On a side note the e key fell off for no reason. 
