yeah, but if my video card is removable, why shouldn't i be able to replace it with a better one? Or is it just a part, because i do only have one cooler in my laptop, and that is linked directly to the chip. thx
Franz
It may very well be removable, however it is not designed to be a modular design like most desktop systems. Desktops today are all built around the ATX form-factor standard. There are some PC makers that use different standards than this, but they are highly-specialized market applications (network appliances, etc.).
The problem with laptops is that there is no predefined standard, so HP may make a different video card connector, for example, than Dell does. ALso, the consumer availablility of mobile video solutions is slim to none. GEnerally the vendors that sell such items work directly with the OEM such as Dell, HP, Gateway, and so on. Uless you are willing to buy these items in quantity, they will not deal with you.
This has just been my persoanl experience, and if you are determined to pull you new laptop apart and swap parts, you take the risk as you stated before of completely destroying a high-dollar system. Also, as a best-case scenario, you will end up with a machine that works but has no warranty. Should any other component in the machine fail during its warranty period, your manufacturer or warranty provider will refuse to honor any warranty due to the fact htat you have opened the casing.
There are some things that are very accessible for the home enthusiast, and there are some that are better left to the professional. As an individual user, you have to decide where that line is drawn. Asking questions regarding something is a great way to learn, but if you are desiring to pursue more technical endeavors, perhaps the official training should prefix that endeavor.
The way I see it your three options would be:
1. Locate a replacement part (expensive if not difficult) and replace it yourself, voiding any warranty in the process and risking destruction of your equipment.
2. Have some person or entity that is innately familiar with the design of your system do it for you (even more expensive and still voids warranty, though a trained individual is less likely to permanantly damage your machine).
3. Sell the laptop you currently own that does not meet your needs at fair market price, then take the $$ you would have spent upgrading along with the $$ you made selling it, and purchase a machine that suits your needs.
Personally, option 3 would be the way I would go. It all depends how much time, money, effort, and risk you want to put ito it. And if all goes well doing it yourself, you get that bonues pride of having accomplished something.
The choice is ultimately yours, however the members of this board have given you some great advice.
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