The Notebook Review forums were hosted by TechTarget, who shut down them down on January 31, 2022. This static read-only archive was pulled by NBR forum users between January 20 and January 31, 2022, in an effort to make sure that the valuable technical information that had been posted on the forums is preserved. For current discussions, many NBR forum users moved over to NotebookTalk.net after the shutdown.
Problems? See this thread at archive.org.

    Everything you need to know about your FX notebook (Help contribute!)

    Discussion in 'Gateway and eMachines' started by idiotpilot, Jul 1, 2009.

  1. idiotpilot

    idiotpilot Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    82
    Messages:
    686
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    In response to the large amount of repetitive threads regarding the FX series notebooks, I have decided that I would put together an FX FAQ. Please help contribute any information you think would be appropriate, I will post it and rep you.

    What is the best processor for my computer?
    It comes down to many factors, including what you do with your notebook and how much money you are willing to spend. The best "bang for the buck" processors are the T9800 for the centrino 2 platform and the T9300 and X7800 for the centrino platform. If you would like a cooler notebook, and generally dont use too any CPU stressing programs, purchase a intel "P" Processor (IE, P8600, P9800, etc). If you plan to use many CPU reliant programs and demanding video games, purchase an intel X (or Core 2 Extreme) Processor. These run at a typically high clock speed for their cost and they allow for overclocking up to 3.0 ghz in the BIOS. However, they get incredibly hot and almost always require undervolting or downclocking.

    Can I overclock my CPU?
    Unless you have a core 2 extreme processor, no. I believe it is locked on the motherboard. Unless you have some serious bios modding skills, or a soldering iron and too much time on your hands, it isn't going to happen.

    Can I overclock my GPU?
    Yes, download Nvidia tools HERE Be careful when overclocking, you will be seeing a lot of blue screens if you overclocking too high. Always make sure to keep your notebook propped up as well! Refer to The notebook cooling central for other techniques at keeping your computer cold and functional.

    Should I replace my hard drive with a solid state drive?
    Solid states drives have been proven to be much more efficient pieces of hardware then hard drives. However, they are much more costly than hard drives, and their capacities are much more limited. If you can afford one, it is almost certainly a worthwhile upgrade. However, if you dont have the cash for one, or you have 500+ GB of files you normally store, A hard drive will work just fine.
    Links:
    http://www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&articleId=9134468

    Can I replace my GPU?
    No, it is soldered to the motherboard. Not possible, period.

    Whenever I am gaming, my notebook gets very hot, is there something wrong with it?
    Probably not. These notebooks pack a lot of high end components that can get incredibly hot. Make sure the vents on the bottom right and left are not blocked, and ALWAYS keep your notebook propped up on it's far end to promote air flow. Download HWMONITOR and monitor your hardware temperatures when idle and while stress testing. A stable temperature for your GPU is 40-50 idle and 65-80 while stressed, though the GPU shuts itself off at 100 centigrade in order to avoid damage. A stable temp for the cpu is under 55 and somewhere between 65-80 while stressed. Regularly clean out your vents with compressed air, and buy a notebook cooler if you game often.

    What is the best cooler for my FX?
    This is a subject of much debate, but many here on the forums accept these as very great coolers: NZXT Cryo LX, Zalman NC2000, Enermax Aeolus, Rosewill 17. Check out Newegg for more options and prices. It is also possibly more effective and cheaper to build your own cooler. Refer to cooling central on how to do this.

    What are best GPU drivers for my FX?
    Also a subject of debate. DOX and Xfastest are both great modded drivers. Test different versions out and see which works best for YOUR system. Laptopvideo2go is a great driver resource.

    How Do I install my GPU drivers?
    iaTa has a great guide on this in our forum, refer to it Here.

    Can I install a bluray Drive on my laptop?
    Yes, please follow This guide. (Thanks sparkyman2000!)

    What are the best accessories for my FX?
    There are no objective "Best" accessories, it all comes down to preference.
    Links:
    http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=340741&highlight=speakers
    http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=337719&highlight=speakers

    Can I add bluetooth capabilities to my 7 series FX?
    Yes, this can be done Via mini pci-e slot (there is an available slot right next to the wifi module).
    Links:
    http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=310447&highlight=blue+tooth+module
    http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=354258&highlight=speakers


    Please add to this if you can, I want to get as much information on this as possible. Thanks, NBR'ers!
     
    idiotpilot, Jul 1, 2009
    #1
  2. sparkyman2000

    sparkyman2000 Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    29
    Messages:
    269
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    Great job, when I get home Ill message you some more links from old school threads on How to.

    NP sent some more your way. Just a bunch of links I used back in the day.
     
    sparkyman2000, Jul 1, 2009
    #2