24. The Graphics Processor Can Be Upgraded, But Be Careful

In the Aurora M7700 the graphics processor resides on a special module (or you can call it a "card" or an "adaptor"). This enables upgrades. According to our sources, Alienware plans to offer an upgrade to the GeForce 7900 GTX at some point in the future for between $200 and $300. And it won't be necessary to purchase a larger power supply.

The graphics module in the Aurora M7700

We prefer to buy a new notebook rather than upgrade an old one's graphics adaptor. This is true for several reasons. For one thing, power needs increase markedly with each new generation of graphics adaptors. Those who believe they need only switch out the graphics adaptor to upgrade their notebook's graphics are mistaken. It's often necessary to purchase a more capable power supply (or power brick, in the case of a notebook). In addition, the notebook vendor can't be completely sure that the thermal management system in the notebook can cope with a faster, higher-wattage (and therefore, hotter) next-generation graphics adaptor. Even when the stars line up and things actually work, an upgraded system invariably runs louder with new circuitry installed. That's because the necessary additional cooling can only be had by upping the rotational speed of the notebook's cooling fan(s).

Dismounted: To the left, the cooling assembly, to the right the graphics card with video RAM and graphics processor.

With a standard desktop PC, graphics upgrades are a little easier to manage. If the old fan isn't up to the task of keeping things cool, you can simply swap it out for a bigger, more efficient model. In many cases, you won't just swap the graphics adaptor but also the entire cooling system included with the adaptor. The situation differs radically in a notebook, however: it's often impossible to switch or improve upon the cooling system. That's because most cooling modules are built specifically for individual notebooks and leave little or no room for a bigger fan.

The fastest graphics processor also does no real good when the CPU is too slow to handle the demands of a new 3D game. In some cases, a CPU upgrade might be necessary. In light of all these potential complications, we think it makes far more sense to unload the "old" notebook through an online auction site and to invest the proceeds plus whatever else may be needed in an altogether new system.