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    m5550 GPU problems

    Discussion in 'Alienware' started by silverdakrt, Feb 2, 2009.

  1. silverdakrt

    silverdakrt Newbie

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    Hi everyone, I am new to these boards and I would like some input from you. Listed are my computer specs:

    Alienware M5550
    XP MC SP3
    T7600 intel core 2 duo
    2gb ram
    100gb 7,200rpm hard drive
    nvidia geforce go 7600
    WUXGA monitor

    Problems:
    While using my computer to surf online, my monitor began turning off and back on again. The whole on/off/on process would only take about 5 seconds, but sometimes it would do it constantly for about 1 minute. I began to notice that it seems to do it when I open a new browser or any program that is slightly video intensive or even changes anything within the appearance. Upon restarting, the alien head that shows up in the beginning is distorted and the windows logo has lines running through it vertically. I called AW technical help and tried the new drivers, re-seated the card, made sure everything was clean, and I plugged it into an external monitor. When the computer is running the second monitor, it continues to do this. From reading on the boards, I think my video card is dead. Would this be other people's diagnosis as well?

    I am left with the assumption that I need to replace the 7600 video card. My question is, which specific video cards can I replace this one with to be equal to if not an upgrade? I went to the mxm-upgrade.com website in search of what i would need from them, but I honestly am not sure I understand. Will an 8600M GS/GT(???) work in my computer? What should I do to get a reliable system that was at least as good as I had? Opinions? Thanks.

    -Guillermo
     
    silverdakrt, Feb 2, 2009
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  2. an emoticon

    an emoticon Notebook Guru

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    From what I read on mxm a 8600GT would work after a BIOS update. It might run a little warmer than before but you get a nice upgrade in return.
     
    an emoticon, Feb 2, 2009
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