XPS 9550 - Any dock that supports Nvidia GPU?

Question

Hi,

I'm using an old XPS 15 9550 and would like to use a docking station that supports the Nvidia GPU. The D3100 does not and so I can't run Adobe software with the Nvidia.

Does anybody know whether any of the current docks works with a XPS 9550 and supports the Nvidia GPU?

Thank you!

ejn63 · Accepted Answer

All video outputs on this model are through the Intel GPU, which is pretty much universal other than on workstation-class notebooks and high-end gaming systems these days.

The only XPS models with direct nVidia output now are the 17" XPS models, and then only with the RTX GPUs (the GTX models are hybrid as your current one is) -- along with some of the higher-end Precision workstations and some Alienware systems.

You may also find that some newer Intel GPUs are much more capable than the older ones such as your that in your current system were.

ejn63 · Answer

If what you're asking is whether you can feed the nVidia GPU output to an external monitor without the Intel GPU, the answer is no -- no dock can add that feature. The nVidia GPU is a co-processor -- it has no direct path, internally or externally, to a display device. All video data passes through the Intel GPU. Whatever software you use can be directed to use the nViida GPU by the Optimus (or Windows) control panel, though.

Neither would an external GPU be an option, as this system is too old to support the required Thunderbolt port.

HeinzRV · Answer

Thanks for your answer.

If I use the D3100 dock and connect the external monitor through HDMI or when I connect the external monitor with HDMI directly to the XPS, I can use the Nvidia software to select what program should use the Nvidia GPU. But in that scenario, I can only extend the display because otherwise, the resolution is too bad.

If I connect the external monitor to the D3100 via DP, I can use two monitors in great resolution but the Nvidia software cannot be used (no supported GPU found).

I was hoping to find a dock that might allow me to use DP with Nvidia. Maybe it's time for a new laptop then.

XPS

XPS 9550 - Any dock that supports Nvidia GPU?

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