17 R1, GTX 770m, FPS drop

Question

Hi All,

I’ve recently dug out my old Alienware 17 R1 from 2013 to play some CSGO (Counter Strike Global Offensive).

After spending a fair amount of time reinstalling everything and getting the GTX 770m recognised and working, I’m still having issues.

After 10 minutes of play the FPS drops from 120 to 30, the fans spool up and become very loud. This occurs for about 30 seconds then it’s back up again to normal FPS.

Is this a thermal throttling issue? And if so how do I fix it?

Thanks

Neil

mattyb3 · Answer

It definitely sounds like thermal throttling. If you've never repasted before then it's time. The old compound will be completely baked and hard by now. You may also find that the heatsinks and fans are getting dust/fluff buildup so a good spring clean will do wonders.

Neilewington · Answer

Thanks Matty. I’ve never repasted before. Do you have any guides or advice about how to go about that with my laptop. Or about the type of paste I should be buying? Best Neil

mattyb3 · Answer

It's reasonably simple but you're best to find a teardown video for your machine and watch it carefully. There are two screws holding the bottom plate in and this gives you access to everything you need. It is best that you use an anti-static wrist strap but I never do. Don't do it in socks or standing on carpet as you can build up static and fry a part. If you take the right precautions it's not hard.

There are 4 screws holding each of the heatsinks on. You just have to loosen these and gently pull the heatsinks off. The GPU heatsink may be tough to remove as the thermal pads will be holding the GPU and heatsink together. You may have to gently pry it off the GPU. It is good practice to change the pads too but they are usually harder to get hold of. Be extra gentle pulling off the heatsinks.

I use Noctura NT-H1 thermal compound which I find works well and is easy to apply.

Alienware

17 R1, GTX 770m, FPS drop

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