Just Sent in my 1420 for failed GPU

Anybody have any experiences with sending in laptops to the depot? My second 1420 just died after 8 months of use and need to send it in for repairs. Also, they said that if they test it in the depot and decide that they can't fix it, they'll send me a new model. Anyone have any idea what model they'll possibly send, or if I could influence what model it is?

 

You'll likely get a new motherboard, not a new laptop. The Nvidia 8x00 graphics chip failure is a common issue.

 

I know. I'm on my second one. My previous one failed almost exactly a year ago and the replacement had the "fix" for the issue. However, when this this third one fails, should I ask for a new model laptop? I was told the warranty on the third one would be extended to August 2010.

 

I hope I don't have this problem.

 

Since the 1420 is not sold anymore, you could get something else. Like a Inspiron 15 or Studio 15.

 

Do you mean 1520? The Inspiron 14 (1420) is still available.

 

I just realized the customer service rep never sent me any information via email, only a work number that I'm supposed to put on the box.

Has anyone else had to send in their laptop to the depot? What procedures were there and what information did you receive?

 

They won't give you a new model, since NVIDIA has already paid Dell to repair these defective GPUs by replacing your motherboard. The 1420's are still being sold, and until the parts from NVIDIA run out or refurbs and the new 1420's run out, will they then consider replacing your machine with another model. They'd opt for the cheaper solution.