Dell upgrade to 256 MB card for Inspiron E1405

Hi,

I am buying the Dell Inspiron 1405. This comes with a Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 950 .

I would be using the notebook for watching movies and my kid would use it to play some kiddie games (she is all of 4 yrs).

My questions are:
1) Is it possible at the time of ordering to ask for another video card like the 256MB ATI MobilityTM Radeon® X1400 HyperMemory or the 256MB NVIDIA® GeForceTM Go 7300 TurboCache4?
2) Which amongst the 2 is better?
3) Approx cost at which Dell would upgrade to either one of the above mentioned cards?

Thanks in advance.

Jay

 

The integrated video cards ARE NOT UPGRADABLE.

The Dell E1405 comes with only an integrated graphics...So, you should look for something else, if you want a better GPU... (for example: HP dv2000t)

 

You'll have to look up a model as far as dell offers to get a discrete GPU like a Radeon or GeForce. The e1505 is a close cousin to the 1405, but can be configured with an x1300 or x1400 graphics card.

If you can do so, consider an XPS unit in the same size and feature range that carries a fullblown graphics card. If you're willing to step back a processor generation (core duo rather than core 2) you might be able to get a similarly-featured unit from another manufacturer. The dv2000t was already mentioned and is a fabulous notebook.

Or perhaps if space and budget allow, purchase a low-end desktop with a cheap graphics card capable of playing her games. That would be a very cost-effective solution and would free up your laptop for your use.

One of the things that contributes to the e1405's magnificent battery life is the integrated graphics card. If that is a reason for your potential purchase, then consider what features you absolutely need and what you can live without.

Do you need portability? Do you need 4-5 hours on a single battery charge?

There's a FAQ/Notebook Purchasing Sheet here you can fill out and post to get feedback from the forum- we'll do our best to set you right.

 

Thanks otakuoverlord and dreamer.

Have one more question.

Does the E14505 come with the S Vedio port by default or do I have to order it? I need to connect to the AV jack in my TV to watch movies. Pleaase advice.

Thanks and Regards,
Jay

 

Sorry I meant the Dell Inspiron E1405 notebook in my question regarding the S Vedio port.

Regards,
Jay

 

The Dell E1405 has a S-Video port.