Adding a graphics card (M1210)

I just ordered a XPS M1210 from Dell with the following specifications:

T7200, 2.00GHz
integrated webcam
2GB RAM
160GB (7200RPM) HD
Intel Graphics
Dell 802.11n
internal Bluetooth

I'll be mainly using it for school work so I didn't get the nvidia graphics card, but now I'm thinking what if I do want to use it for more graphics intensive applications(e.g. 3d games) in the future.

I know for most laptops it's not possible to upgrade the graphics card, but since the XPS M1210 had the option when I ordered I have to ask (with my fingers crossed):

Does anyone know if the nvidia graphics card can be added to a XPS M1210 that did not originally have it? If so, can it be done easily?

Thanks.

 

You cant add it. Only way would be if you change the mainboard which will cost a few hundred $. If you want to Nvidia they get that now.

 

The current m1210 can have a 7400, however, you'll need to completely replace your motherboard in your case as you have the integrated graphics.

 

The Nvidia GPU uses an entirely different motherboard than the Intel IGP which is why you can't add it afterwards.

 

so in short, return it now and get one with it, if you have regrets already

 

if it has not shipped yet call Dell NOW! And ask them to change it.

 

That sucks.

The laptop has been shipped but hasn't arrived yet, and I'm not sure if I'll return it. I specifically decided not to get the graphics upgrade so I wouldn't be tempted to load it up with some of the all so alluring 3d games out there. I was really hoping that the Intel 'integrated' graphics was integrated in a swappable way. The funny thing is when I ordered I ask the sales guy if I could upgrade later and he said sure; he didn't seem, however, like he knew all that much, and he sounded like someone in a call centre in India reading off the specs that popped up on his screen. Oh well.

 

never trust the "Salesmans" story...they tell you whatever they need to to complete the sale.

i think youll still ulitmately enjoy the computer, and you made an educated decision to NOT get the nvidia...but if you keep having doubts...return it.

 

you should always ask the important questions in a forum like this BEFORE you commit yourself, if you get a wrong answer here, the correct answer will usually show up shortly.

 

just return laptop and get with nvidia 7400.. you need to futureproof yourself at least a little bit.. i rgeret of buying laptop 7 months ago, because i didn't have any idea about laptops.. i bought with gma950 lol

 

The laptop arrived. Overall it seems to be a pretty good laptop but I have noticed a few disappointing defects:

1. The left arrow key on the keyboard came loose. It could be clicked back into position but after some typing it would come loose again. On closer inspection it appears that the plastic connector on the laptop is slightly warped.

2. The wifi finder seems temperamental; it works sometimes but not always, especially when the laptop is shutdown. The wireless card, however, works very well and always is able to connect even when the wifi finder is not able to find any networks. (n.b. I am referring to the hardware LED; the software wifi finder works fine)

3. Dell Media Direct appears not to be able to recognize additional codecs except when windows is booted normally

4. The Vista product key sticker was scratched when the laptop arrived. the product key is still completely visible and this does not have any tangible effects but is no the less disappointing.

I will contact Dell tech support and post again.

 

Yes, it only supports MPEG,WMV.WMA,MP3,WAV (the standard stuff) out of the box, no DivX or MPEG4. But you can install anything you want: here is how.

No, the sticker is not damaged, that is the way it is made (a security feature). Take a look.