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    MXM Type A Upgrade Options?

    Discussion in 'Gaming (Software and Graphics Cards)' started by cobra127s, Sep 6, 2015.

  1. cobra127s

    cobra127s Newbie

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    I have a Dell Precision M4700 running Windows 10 on an I7 quad core with a Firepro M4000 GPU. I originally got this setup for CAD in college, but since then I've switched majors so I now mostly use my laptop for gaming but this card just isn't that good. Do you guys know any viable replacement options? I'd like to stay under $200, but I might be able to stretch. Thanks!
     
    cobra127s, Sep 6, 2015
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  2. Meaker@Sager

    Meaker@Sager Company Representative

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    The firepro M5100 is the only faster MXM-A option currently.
     
    Meaker@Sager, Sep 7, 2015
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  3. hfm

    hfm Notebook Prophet

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    Be careful with the 5100M, the TDP is said to be significantly higher from a percentage standpoint. 33W for the M4000 vs 50W for the M5100. Not sure what effect that would have on the power supply components in the laptop. Could be nothing since it's only 17W, but that's still a significant increase (50%) potential power draw, and it depends on how those components were spec'd in the build of the machine.

    Here's the data sheet for your laptop.

    The nVidia K2000M listed as an option is a 55W TDP package (I wouldn't go that route, it's using GDDR3 vs GDDR5), so the FirePro M5100 should be fine for the components and cooling solution, but, at your own risk and all.

    Also, you might want to verify if the vbios is embedded in your system bios or if it's using a vbios on the MXM card. It's possible if it's embedded in the system bios it might not work for the M5100.
     
    hfm, Sep 7, 2015
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  4. Meaker@Sager

    Meaker@Sager Company Representative

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    The dell cards use a bios on the MXM card.
     
    Meaker@Sager, Sep 7, 2015
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