XPS L501x - Gaming Performance degraded over time (w/ 435m)

All,



I found over the past few months that my performance has degraded on my video card. Games like BF3 played okay a few months ago, however it suddenly can't get more than 7fps on 1920 @ low settings in most scenes.

I don't know what I used to get, but it has really took a drop. Also the fan is blowing at top speeds nearly always, even when I'm not playing games.

I re-installed the OS and games to rule out some application issue. I'm not sure if this is a known issue or just some expected wear and tear.

I also bought myself a notebook cooler, however did not sample any before / after temps on my system. Which I plan to do now.

Has anyone else experienced something similar?

I still have 16 months left on my in-home accidental warranty with Dell. I just wanted to enter a phone call with the support with some info and background before they send me on a wild goose chase or attempt to not help me.


Thanks,


My Specs :
CPU: Intel Core i7 Q740 1.73 Turbo to 2.93GHZ
LCD: 15.6" FHD TLF B+RGLED
RAM: 8GB DDR3 (2 x 4 GB) OEM RAM
GPU: Intel GeForce GT 435m 2GB Graphics
HDD: Segate 500GB : ST9500420AS
WLAN: Intel Centerino Advanced N + WiMax 6250
CD/DVD : Tray Load Blu-ray Disc BD-Combo (Reads BD and Writes DVD/CD)
KEYBOARD : Backlit Keyboard
Sound : JBL 2.1 Speakers

 

I have a similar problem.. I would recommend myself to call Dell to see what they have to say, unfortunately for me I no longer have any warranty.
Have you considered that maybe as you have installed newer drivers, your performance has worsened? (sounds mad, I know, but when I test my GPU on 3dMark11 on each new driver install, the score goes down.)

Sorry I wasn't all that useful..

 

The CPU/GPU itself doesn't really slow down over time due to wear and tear.

Since the fan is on full blast, the laptop is probably overheating (most likely from dust buildup). In this case, the laptop is working properly by protecting the hardware from reaching a critical temperature. If you clean it out (compressed air) you should be back to normal.

 

I called dell and they are sending out a replacement, motherboard with gpu, proc and fan.

When we ran tests the gpu got to 99 degrees celsius. The CPU got to 96.

I'll let you know how this goes.

 

So I found the heat sink intake completely clogged. It was probably allowing 20% airflow out. There is NO way to blow this out with compressed air. You would need to open chassis and clean carefully. The dell tech simply replaced mine with a new one, however I see that after a couple years regardless of warranty, you need to do this.