Idea Storm

[Alienware] [M17x r3] NVidia 680M Compatibility with 3D Controller

July 18, 2012

43 Votes

Status: Under Review

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The Alienware M17x r3's 3D controller will not allow the user to install an NVidia 680M into the machine and still be able to push 3D on the system. The problem appears to be that the M17x r3 BIOS doesn't contain the certificate needed to validate the 680M is a card that is able to push 3D.

Dell/Alienware should make the additions to the BIOS for the M17x r3 to allow this newer GPU to push 3D in the system. Additionally, the new fixes released today (7.18.12) inside of the A05 M17x r4 BIOS regarding the GPU boost technology should also be included in this BIOS update for the M17x r3.

By adding these two simple features to the M17x r3 BIOS, Dell/Alienware is enabling a considerable amount of individuals to purchase more hardware and help ensure long-lasting customer satisfaction.

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Status Update: This idea is now Under Review. Please be patient as we will be limited in what information we can share during this process.

43 Votes | 36 Comments | Report Abuse

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Apr 17, 2013 Comment Link

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Posted By: ovittl1490
Under review..... very dissappointing. I bought an alienware for the upgrade ability.... appears that I was duped in because Dell constantly refuses to add support for the lastest tech and leaves its past patrons the only option to buy a new system. Well this m17x r4 will more than likely be my last prduct from dell. The original makers of alienware have a new company called Origin, perhaps they'll have systems that support new tech after you purchase them. Alienware/ Dell you have have gotten too money hungry and its disappointing you don't think of those customers with currently owned products.

Jan 20, 2013 Comment Link

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Posted By: Snio
Please Dell, help us with a new M17x R3 BIOS update ;-)
It's a very good way to develop loyalty of your customers ... especially when it's nothing very difficult for professionals that you are.

Jan 9, 2013 Comment Link

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Posted By: bugeater
Hi,

I registered to promote this.

I've been generally happy with my M17x R3 w/460m since I bought it two years ago. If anything, the 460M was always underpowered for 3d. I've been contemplating on upgrading it for some time now and I'm ready to pull the trigger on the 680M after I've heard so many successful reports of people running it on their R3s. However, the fact that 3d won't work is disappointing.

This was my first laptop I've purchased for myself. I bought an Alienware because PCs are my hobby. I always thought Alienware was the brand to go to when it comes to upgradability. I thought choosing Alienware would give me the option that just isn't possible with other vendors.

So if I want 3d on a 680M laptop, I would have to buy an R4? Forget it! I'm choosing another option and never considering Alienware again.

Regards,

James Marinas

Dec 14, 2012 Comment Link

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Posted By: IdeaStorm Moderator Cy_J
skywalka - Some ideas have stayed "Under Review" for years. It all depends on the idea and what steps need to take place to implement it. Since the video card in question was not offered on the Alienware M17 r3 a decision to support it or not takes careful consideration and planning if implemented. Updates to ideas that are under review do not happen until the idea is Implemented/Partially Implemented or a final decision has been made not to implement it. I can not offer any additional information on the review at this time.

Dec 14, 2012 Comment Link

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Posted By: IdeaStorm Moderator Cy_J
page305 - That is GREAT news. I am so happy that I was able to help you get your system fixed. In case anyone else reads this and has a problem I'll also mention that you can reach out to @DellCares on twitter for assistance, they are a great team. Sorry about the delay in response as I was working a booth at Dell World spreading the word about IdeaStorm.

Dec 13, 2012 Comment Link

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Posted By: skywalka
6 months to review? I don't think so.

Dec 13, 2012 Comment Link

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Posted By: page305
... another update...

If you are looking for this upgrade to fix your unplayeable 580m throttle problem card I can now say with 100% certainty... a new GPU/Fan/Sink will fix it 100%.

Poker games used to throttle my 580m withing 3 minutes. I just played Crysis 2 with DX11 Enabled, Ultra Settings, 1920x1080, Fullsreen, Vert Sync, High Res Texture Pack and Medium Motion Blur (WITHOUT PROPPING THE PC UP) and it all played without a single throttle. It didn't even try to throttle on me. I maintained 28-35 FPS with drops to 18-20 during huge explosions and major firefights... which is to be expected with a laptop and these settings.

Thought the guys on this ideastorm should know this... it does fix the problem.

Cy_J; you got the ball rolling on this after I had given up. I thanks you so so so much. I can say AW has my next purchase lined up already :)

Dec 12, 2012 Comment Link

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Posted By: page305
Also wanted to post this.

These are various topics and resources I have come across for our systems. Obviously, make changes at your own risk!

580m Throttle: http://support.euro.dell.com/support/topics/global.aspx/support/kcs/document?docid=526457

HDMI 3D Out: http://support.dell.com/support/topics/global.aspx/support/kcs/document?c=us&docid=522511

HDMI In: http://forum.notebookreview.com/alienware-m17x/657511-m17xr3-hdmi-not-working-work-around-nvidia-last.html

580m Conference Call: http://forum.notebookreview.com/alienware-m17x/648538-conference-call-nvidia-geforce-gtx-580m-78c-throttling-see-post-191-later.html

Unofficial 580m Throttle Fix: http://forum.notebookreview.com/alienware-m17x/616474-guide-580m-gtx-throtting-fix-no-need-modify-system-bios.html

Dec 12, 2012 Comment Link

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Posted By: page305
2 Things to post:

1) Cy_J, I did have a call from the Miami AW center... they're sending someone out to replace the GPU, Heat/Fan Setup. Hopefully now I can retire my old textbook cooling accessory! Thank you very sincerely for all your help (the Inida call center was never any help)! Hope the vacation went well!

2) My personal (unoffical) update to the status of this topic is that I don't see this happening. When my gpu replacement was being scheduled I asked about purchasing an upgrade to the 680m and was told they couldn't back it because it may cause issues with the 3D and other applications. Didn't seem like there was any hope that this would be soon as the CS rep put me on hold and checked with someone before telling me no. If anyone would know the correct status it would be the Miami Center. I also believe this won't happen b/c I'm sure they would have rather SOLD me an upgrade than replace my current GPU/Fan/Heat for free.

This idea-storm was a great idea, but it seems these PC's aren't very upgrade friendly. Price to pay, I guess, to have so many features crammed in a laptop I'm afraid.

Dec 10, 2012 Comment Link

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Posted By: BlakeE45
@TheMak

I have no word from Dell/AW yet on this... I'm doubtful at this point anything will happen unfortunately.