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    installing i7 3920xm in my m17xr3

    Discussion in 'Alienware 17 and M17x' started by ADegtyarev, Sep 18, 2012.

  1. ADegtyarev

    ADegtyarev Notebook Guru

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    Hello, as title says I am interested in installing a new ivy bridge i7 3920xm processor into my m17xr3 system (still unsure it as it is a hefty price). Socket type appears to be the same (988), but I would like to know for sure if ivy bridge is compatible with r3, if I will need a different bios, compatibility with my 6990m, and just general compatibility and any other potential issues? Also if I need to worry about overheating issues, as I heard xm processors are exceedingly hot? Also would not mind any opinions on whether I need to do this.

    Thanks

    NOTE: Currently I have an i7 2720qm processor and have not had any significant issues with my computer (nothing I could not solve in 1 hour time).
     
    ADegtyarev, Sep 18, 2012
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  2. Quadzilla

    Quadzilla The eye is watching you

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    The highest you can go is a 2960xm in the R3. 3920xm is Ivy Bridge which the R3 can't handle.

    The R4 can run both Sandy and Ivy but the R3 is stuck at only Sandy.
     
    Quadzilla, Sep 18, 2012
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  3. ADegtyarev

    ADegtyarev Notebook Guru

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    Okay, thanks for fast reply. if I was however interested in installing a 2960xm instead would there be any known issues I should worry about (i.e. overheating, compatibility,etc.)?
     
    ADegtyarev, Sep 18, 2012
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  4. Quadzilla

    Quadzilla The eye is watching you

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    Mainly just heat is your only real concern depending how crazy you get with overclocking.

    A good paste job or 2 depending on your temps and it will be fine, also prop up the back end while your keeping it under load or use a cooler. You want as much airflow as possible.

    I had a 2920xm in an R3 and never had an issue. I Repasted it a few times till I found my best temps which is what I always do.
     
    Quadzilla, Sep 18, 2012
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