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    Asus G50VM-X1 (The Best Buy Model)

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by Firefishe, Oct 25, 2008.

  1. Firefishe

    Firefishe Notebook Enthusiast

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    I am looking for a source for the bluetooth mini-card for the G50V gaming laptop computer.

    Asus's site on the driver download page says the driver is for a "AW-BT250," which, according to this listing:

    wwwDOTbluetoothDOTcom/Bluetooth/Products/Products/Product_Details.htm?ProductID=4826

    (Substitute a period (.) for the 'DOT' listings above. Something about needing to have 15 or more posts.)

    ...is an AzureWave (same as my WLAN card, too) AW-B250 using a Broadcom BCM-2046 chipset.

    I need a parts source to buy this card from to upgrade my G50V. Also need antenna/wire/routing information if available.

    Thanks,
    Firefishe
     
  2. powerpack

    powerpack Notebook Prophet

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    Say again what is the situation/problem you need to fix? I mean did it not come with the components you need? I am confused because you mention drivers?
     
  3. Firefishe

    Firefishe Notebook Enthusiast

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    I want the bluetooth module (and antenna if it's not already there), a Wi-Max or at least the 'N' (3 wire) WLAN Card, a T9400 CPU, and eventually, the Blu-Ray RW burner optical drive.

    I've been on the phone with Asus today (22 OCT) and it's like pulling teeth just to get something done. They seem to have the part numbers but I can tell you that unless I find someone inside at the asus estore, I'm not going to upgrade this thing at all, save for perhaps the processor.

    Here are the part numbers that tech support gave me:

    1. Bluetooth Module #04G590032010
    2. Wi-Max Card #NA1S8900790021
    3. Blu-Ray Drive: #17G161114000
    4. Intel T9400 CPU

    I am pretty sure the Bluetooth card is an AzureWave AW-BT250, based on the Broadcom BCM2046 chipset. Tech support seemed to confirm this as they had similar information on their parts list.

    They gave me an alternative listing for the Wi-Max Card as the "Intel 5350" while the Wireless N card listed as the "Intel 4965".

    The Bluetooth module appears to be the main problem, as they said I was *not going to be able to buy it through their store*, although during my first contact a couple of weeks ago, this was not the case.

    I must've gotten through to someone higher up the ladder, which is what I really need. I would just assume go through a licensed dealer with access to such things, so I don't have to muddle around with customer service constantly; actually, I am tiring of their pomposity and consumer-minded "little people" who don't understand a P Socket from a DDR2 RAM connector.

    As this laptop series is quite new, I surmise that, after a year or so, some G50V motherboard parts may surface, but all I really want to do is upgrade my unit once, then leave it alone. The Blu-Ray Drive is my least priority, while the Bluetooth and CPU upgrades are my top priorities.

    I hope this helps. Thanks in advance.

    Warm Regards,
    Stephen Brown
     
  4. powerpack

    powerpack Notebook Prophet

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    Stephen I will take a look around. If I can find any help will post. Having just ordered an Asus (different model) my curiosity is peaked on this brands and the possibilities.

    Sorry I can't help at this point. Can I shift the focus for a minute. Have you already bought? Is it possible buying a different variation on this model with the components you desire likely cheaper? Or at least not more expensive than what you purpose? I mean the CPU alone is what $340? Just a question? I am all for modding on your own but get concerned when no real cost savings and warranty implications.

    Bump.
     
  5. Firefishe

    Firefishe Notebook Enthusiast

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    Thanks powerpack, for the quick reply. I appreciate it.

    Yep! I've already gone and bought the thing. Drove 125 miles to get it when my local Best Buy didn't have one new in the box. The overall cost wouldn't be much more to do it myself, and my main desire--relative to doing it quickly--is just the bluetooth connectivity.

    I use my cell phone a lot as a bluetooth 'tethered' modem, and I just assume have the feature built-in. It's a shame Best Buy wanted to cut out such a simple and not-too-costly feature like bluetooth for such an advanced gaming platform. Might've added what? $50 bucks to the cost? If that!

    On another possibility I'm only speculating about, I'm going to see if the WLAN card format might be available with an aftermarket wi-fi/bluetooth combination card. That would negate my necessity to obtain the Asus bluetooth card, and let me have an easier time of installation, too.

    Again, thanks for the help. I'll check back here regularly and see what's up and about.

    Warm Regards,
    Firefishe