Compatibility with m17xR3

Hello there,

I am new to this forum. However, I have read a few helpful threads here at notebookreview.com

I am a regular to the alienwarearena forums but "help" seems very limited.

I have had problems with my default card (Radeon HD 6990m) in my m17xR3 and already purchased a replacement through eBay. Unfortunately, it did not work in my rig and the seller let me return the item (even when the ad said "no returns").

I just wanted verification that this video card will work in my rig without any problems what-so-ever. I could elaborate on my story with the previous replacement card I purchased and returned; to show why I am weary of purchasing another video card:
eBay ad for 6990m

Any helpful input would be appreciated.

Thank you and Sincerely,
GiantSekki

 

as long as its a dell card it should be plug and play. I had a similar issue with my 6990m when I first got it as well. I got a mobo replacement for a different problem and it suddenly was working just fine. Not sure why.

 

Unfortunately, Alienware/Dell does not have mobos nor my video card. My rig is "too old."

 

We keep those for warranty replacements usually. Have you tried checking on parts-people.com?

 

I'd keep an eye on ebay and see if you can find a card with the dell vbios. If you do find one you should be able to drop it right in and it should work just fine.

 

I agree with BigTony there, just keep looking. You may also consider going up to the 7xxxm series cards. These are compatible with M17x R3s but are obviously more expensive, although there are usually more of them available on eBay (my guess is people keep the 6xxxm series cards in case of failures or issues when upgrading/replacing like you have experienced).

Odd that Dell/Alienware are saying they have no mobos or GPUs though.

Also as Porras from Alienware has stated with the posted website, R3 Mobo can be found here: Alienware M17x R3 Mobo. Again not cheap though.

Also, just to check, have you tried stripping all the AMD and dell display drivers for the card from the machine and re-installing them too? I have occasional issues with mine and doing that resolves any issue I may have, or at least it has done so far.

If this hasn't worked, a fresh re-install of Windows might be needed/looked at and in that case im assuming it is a Windows 7 machine being an R3, this guide will let you know what order to install drivers etc:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/ali...er-install-order-guide-alienware-systems.html

If you are sure the card is faulty however and dont want to try these steps, i'd refer to the first point. Personally i'd buy a 7970m as there around $350(ish) for you guys as you'll get one faster than a 6 series as ive not seen many with a dell vBios on eBay at all.

Hope this helps.