YIKES! e1705 graphics card upgrade!!!

Question

Ok, here's the situation.    I currently own an e1705 with an intel core 2 duo processor T7200 (2.00 GHz), 1 GB DDR2 memory, 120 GB 5400RPM SATA hard drive, and an intel integrated 945GM express chipset. I will be upgrading the hard drive to 750gb at 7200 rpm, and the memory to an 8gb express card in the next month or so. Now, I've been reviewing these forums, and found out that the intel 945 chipset cannot be upgraded to a totally new video card, such as the Nvidia 7800 Go (or better), without changing the motherboard. So, putting all price tags aside (and warranties, since mine is expired already) what steps should I take in getting a new mobo, and is there any particular one that I should purchase? Does Dell provide these parts, including the graphics card, and would they install them for you? One thing I do not want to do is mess up my entire laptop due to my limited computer knowledge! Yes, I could just purchase a new laptop altogether, but I love the one I have now. If I had known better, I would have chosen the ATI X1400 option in my initial configuration so that the mobo would not have to be replaced, but the quality of graphics was unimportant to me then. And now....... grrr.                                                       Anyway, all comments appreciated !!!   =0)

ejn63 · Answer

Sell the system and buy a new one.

Yes, you can buy the parts from Dell - or a Dell reseller, or if you're brave, EBay.

From Dell, or a Dell parts reseller, you're looking at a $400 system board, plus another $350-400 for the video card - that's $800 in parts, assuming you do the labor yourself, for a grand total of 90 days of warranty at best (Dell, Dell parts seller), used parts. On EBay you get no warranty - or maybe a DOA guarantee. If you pay a shop for labor, expect another couple of hundred dollars.

It just makes no economic sense. If you need better video, sell the notebook and upgrade, or keep it and put the $800-1000 toward a nice desktop system.

Dell won't do or support the upgrade.

Dell Spare Parts 1-800-449-3355 ext 7269937

Message Edited by ejn63 on 11-27-2007 09:22 PM

Inspiro99 · Answer

What about the mobo? If I do decide to upgrade ($800 is just pocket change) which one should I get?

ejn63 · Answer

You don't have a choice; you need the E1705/9400 board with discrete video. http://www.impactcomputers.com/wh277.html Here's the video card: http://www.impactcomputers.com/uf804.html

Inspiro99 · Answer

Thanks. What about Nvidia 7900GS?

ejn63 · Answer

For that one you likely need to call Dell. It should run $400-450 or so. Dell Spare Parts 1-800-449-3355 ext 7269937

Inspiro99 · Answer

I dont have to purchase that card through Dell, do I?

Inspiro99 · Answer

Ok. Thanks so much for your advice.

ejn63 · Answer

The card is proprietary, so you must buy the Dell card, whether through Dell or a Dell parts reseller, yes. You can't buy any non-Dell card - it won't fit the system.

Locked Topics – Laptops General

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