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    m15x graphics dead

    Discussion in 'Alienware M15x' started by str1der, Jan 4, 2016.

  1. str1der

    str1der Notebook Enthusiast

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    hi guys my alienware is beeping 2 4 3 1

    Been advised that it is my graphics card

    Not played arround for computers for a while

    but if i upgrade the cpu and gpu, would windows load, or would a new system install be in order

    also what would be the best cpu and gpu to run

    at the moment it is i7 2.3 or 2.4 cant remember

    and 260m gpu

    thank you
     
    str1der, Jan 4, 2016
    #1
  2. ADOR

    ADOR Evil Mad Scientist

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    If you are running windows 7 I have had good luck on swapping cpu's or video card as long as the are the same make.
     
    ADOR, Jan 4, 2016
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  3. Raidriar

    Raidriar ლ(ಠ益ಠლ)

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    I advise to install a graphics card, boot into safe mode and run DDU (download it first, use another computer if you must) and latest drivers installed when you boot back normally.

    I have some 4GB AMD Radeon R9 M290X/8970M for sale if you are considering purchasing.
     
    Raidriar, Jan 4, 2016
    #3
  4. kosti

    kosti Notebook Virtuoso

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    If your Scroll+Caps lock flashes during POST, that indicates a faulty video card. Not sure what the beeping you mentioned indicates. Do a full power drain:

    - Remove the power adapter
    - Remove the battery
    - Hold down the power button for 30 seconds

    Then, I would remove the video card. Clean the heatsink. Reapply thermal paste and reinstall.

    If you get a flashing scroll+caps lock, then the card is probably faulty. You can always upgrade like Raidriar mentioned. The M15X officially supported the Radeon 5850 and the Nvidia 460M GTX for gaming cards, but you are not limited to just those. If you are not going to be gaming, you can always get a lower power card like the Nvidia 240M GT and the AMD Mobility Radeon 5730. Your CPU can be upgraded to any of the 1st generation mobile Core-i processors up to an i7 940xm.
     
    kosti, Jan 5, 2016
    #4
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