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June 4th, 2009 07:00
Parity error with memory failure
I purchased my Dell XPS M1210 2 years ago for a premium ($2500). In addition to the many problems I have had with it the laptop has failed with a BSD and vertical lines with the error message of a hardware failure. Calls to Dell support reveal that for almost $1,000 I can send it back, get a new motherboard, wait 2 weeks, and get it back (maybe better). Shouldn't an expensive laptop last more than 2 years? How is that logical when I can guarantee a better computer for the same money? Anyone else frustrated with the quality of these machines?
I should also mention I am a CS prof and you can be certain Dells will not be recommended.
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fireberd
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June 4th, 2009 09:00
First, you posted your rant in the Desktop section, not the Laptop section.
How long anything can last, whether it's a computer, a refrigerator, car. etc has many variables. As an educator I would assume you would be more attuned to a subject such as "how long something lasts". One would assume something such as a laptop would last more than two years but things do fail, and in your case we can't say whether it was just a hardware failure or if it was user (unknowingly) caused; and with Laptops they are, in many cases, subjected to more environmental and transport problems than a desktop. I spent my entire working career in electronics and computers. If they would never "break" I would have had to find a different profession.
Many extended warantee's are questionable, but this is a case where an extended waranty would have served it's purpose (and saved $$).
Memory is a standard item, it's not a custom OEM part, if the memory parity error is what is wrong any reputable PC repair shop should be able to take care of it (and for less than the $1000).
ejn63
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June 4th, 2009 11:00
It's more likely that it's the video RAM that has failed, given the symptoms - which does mean a new system board.
The repair is nowhere near $1,000 - the board itself runs about $400; if you can't install it yourself, add another $100 or so for labor.
http://www.impactcomputers.com/rh093.html