How will dual 256s match up with future game req...

that list 512 as the recommended graphics memory?

 

SLi doesn't double the RAM, just the processing power, for RAM requirements treat dual 256 as just 256, the RAM needs to be mirrored, but the extra gpu will give you the ooomph to handle the extra work needed

 

It doesnt add the 2x 256mb together...it shares them so you will not be able to use 512 textures in future games.

Unless you get the 2x 512 7900gs's!

Then you will be set.

Dont get me wrong, the dual 256 7900's will do just fine in future games but you may not be able to take advantage of some of the features.

 

The 512mb textures will work, but with the 320mb 8800GTS the frame rate in Call of Duty drops by almost half compared to the 640mb GTS when the 512mb textures are enabled (the ingame setting is called "Extra Textures" - lol)

 

Personally I don't see much of a difference between the textures on High (256MB of VRAM) and Ultra (512MB of VRAM) in Doom 3/Quake 4 and the same in CoD 2. You don't have anything to worry about.

 

it would be nice if Alienware, or any laptop maker for that matter, offered graphics cards upgrades.

 

they actually do. you can call alienware and they will sell you 512 cards for a cheaper price then when you originally configured. I know people who bought their 9700 with 1x 256 7900gs card, then alienware turned around and sold them an additional card for 200 bucks or so. It doesnt even void your warranty if you install the card.

So yea, down the road you may additionally purchase some 512 cards for that bad boy...As long as they keep them in stock.

 

So it voids your warranty if you change the CPU, but not the GPU?

real classy..

 

with MXM its as easy and risk free as upgrading RAM, and if AW supplies the part it doesn't void warranty, CPUs are a bit more er... risky to play lego with

 

Wait, you're saying "I" can upgrade the graphics cards, and without voiding the warranty if I get them from AW? I thought laptop graphics cards were soldered to the motherboard. At least that's my limited experience. WoW. Alienware does rock.

 

Yes you can! Nope not this day in age...Well some laptop vid cards you cannot upgrade but Laptops are becoming more and more upgradable these days.

You can basically upgrade the Ram/HDD/Video card no problem.

 

SWEEEEEEEEEEEEEET

 

The 256mb 7900GS SLi gets around the same synthetic benchmark as a single 7950GTX (5200-5400 in 3DMark06), just thought you should know

 

Yep, the only thing that limits it is the fact that Vista doesnt have SLi drivers right now, and the fact that you have to tweak it to work with just about every game...You know making profiles and all. Its just less of a headache with 1 powerful card insetad of 2 SLi.

 

I have aspirin.

 

"Jul 3, 2007 1:04 PM Delivered"

Thank you, FedEx!! Now I just have to survive the next 42 minutes until it's quitting time!

 

I have an update to your fedex order Kermit...

"Jul 3, 2007 1:04 PM Delivered, in pieces"

haha im jk

 

ah man, that's just cold.

 

You. Don't. Do. That. To. Alienwares. It's. Not. Funny.



I'm looking forward to your first impressions, congratz!