M17 upgrading and keyboard problem

Hello, I'm thinking about upgrading my processor either to the X9100 or the QX9300. I've heard that the QX9300 has some stuttering issues(can someone explain what happens?) but it might be more powerful since i do some 3D-rendering and stuff.The X9100 will probably be better in games. Which one of the processors do you think i should upgrade to? (I think I'm going to order from shirleyfu1117 @ eBay)

Also, I have a problem with my keyboard, the blue color doesn't work but the other works just fine. Anyone knows how to solve this problem?

 

I'd get the QX9300 as 2.53GHz is plenty in next to all games anyway.

With stuttering basically on the desktop it causes a very, very 'skippy' mouse making it very hard to work. When playing games it causes a massive decrease in frame rates along with stuttering.

The blue color not working is a problem with the connector on the M17. There is nothing you can do about it, apart from get a new system. And I'm doubtful AW will give you a new system because of the keyboard

 

Thx for the quick reply. Can't I order a new keyboard and replace the old one?

 

A new system, no, but I'd think they'd at least repair it if the system is still under warranty. Give them a call and see what they can do for you - if you're sending it back for upgrade, maybe they can do both at once. (and if you're not sending it back, maybe you can work something out on a replacement keyboard/connector to be sent when they send your upgrade CPU)

 

The QX9300 is an excellent cpu and I would recommend it. Shirley is a top notch seller - is where I got mine. The stuttering can be fixed with the appropriate amount of tweaks (software).

Have AW fix the keyboard since they should cover it in warranty. Some other things to think about, if you are going to send it in to get the keyboard fixed/replaced, also have them upgrade the GPUs to the dual 4850 if they will - VERY nice upgrade. Also if you need to send it in, do so with the original CPU installed, as they would view a CPU that THEY didn't install as voiding your warranty.

Hope this helps.

 

All good stuff posted above for sure, and some good recommendations. The stuttering for me never really got resolved, and I actually swapped my Q9000 an X9100 (which i got for only $315) and love it. Most of what I do only utilizes two cores though anyway so it works fine for me.

 

No. Replacing the keyboard won't help at all. It's a problem with the connector on the motherboard, as of course the M17 is an OCZ whitebook converted into an Alienware laptop. This means the only, ONLY way around it is a new system.

 

If the system is still under warranty, Dell HAS to do whatever necessary for you to end up with working hardware, rest assured. Most likely you would get a new motherboard. Which is nothing to be mad about (this isn't the desktop world where you will get a refurbished part for the repair)