Questions regarding about upgrading m17x r3

Hey fellow NBR,

First time being in this thread and I want to lay down some few question to you guys since it seems this forum is very realiable. As of now Ive been very unhappy with my m17x r3 due to throttling and such and thought it was time to replace it with a new laptop. I was thinking about purchasing P150EM but than later decided to try to upgrade it myself.

Right now, my main focus is to upgrade my HDD to 512GB Crucial m4 SSD and most importantly, my GPU from 460m to either 7970M or 680m. The thing is im not like a super tech savvy guy so I was wondering if its possible and compatible with m17x r3 and was wondering if you guys can suggest me where and/or how i can get a decent price for a new set of gpu parts (since dell is a little to pricey).

Specs are i7 2820, 8gb ram, and 460m

p.s. One last thing, if i do purchase a new gpu, can i reuse the same heatsink?

 

Well, congratulations on your Crucial M4. You'll be happy with an SSD instead of a HDD. As far as upgrading to an Nvidia 680m, the only drawback is you lose 3D. Any other minor issues will be referenced in this thread: http://forum.notebookreview.com/alienware-m17x/672230-m17x-r3-680m-compatability.html.
Upgrading to an AMD 7970M is a bit more tricky. You can use the same heatsink, you just need to do some transplanting of plastics washers, etc. Here is the guide for that GPU: http://forum.notebookreview.com/ali...-mobility-7970-m17x-r3-illustrated-guide.html.

The only other places I can think of that you can get a 680m or 7970M are either eBay (can be very expensive), or Eurocom. Be prepared to spend some money though.

 

Thanks! It seems its alot cheaper to buy it from eurocom than dell/ebay. One last question though! Is there like a specific 680m model that I need to pay attension too in order for it to be compatible with my m17x or is the gpu that eurocom provide a versatile gpu. Oh and will they provide heatsink and such?