Upgrade guide for Alienware m17x GPU from GTX 765 to GTX 970
Upgrade guide for Alienware m17x GPU from GTX 765 to GTX 970
Hi there, I hope you're doing well. Your friend is facing a common issue when upgrading the GPU in his Alienware M17X. The problem seems to stem from using a power supply that wasn't powerful enough for the new GPU, especially since he used a less capable power brick. Checking the specifications of the GPU and ensuring the PSU meets its power requirements is crucial. For a 970 GPU, a PSU with at least 650W should be sufficient, but it's wise to verify the exact wattage needed based on the GPU's power consumption. You can find reliable PSUs online from reputable retailers or electronics stores.
Hello jaslion, your message is appreciated. I’m glad you found the reply helpful. Regarding your question, it seems the issue might lie with either the laptop’s BIOS or the GPU. Some users have reported successfully flashing an unlocked BIOS on unsupported GPUs to resolve compatibility problems. Let me know if you’d like more details! Savage also appreciates your response—it’s crucial for the proof. Thank you again!
If it's a GPU BIOS issue, I own a Clevo laptop that allows me to update the GPU BIOS smoothly, so I'm inquiring about this reason.
For the model you have I cannot find anything. Then again it is still EXTREMELY unlikely to work. Even if it works it's never without issues. Your friend is better of selling the laptop and getting a laptop with the power they need.
It seems you're still figuring out what's going on with this setup. Most 970M cards should work, but the BIOS might vary by manufacturer. For instance, an Aetina 970M was designed for MSI laptops and isn't fully compatible with Alienware systems. I discovered it can't run the 17 R1 fan speed I installed. (It's there even though the service tag says M17x.) It took several tries to locate a BIOS that functions with Alienware. Additionally, this card won't fit models with the 3D 120Hz display—only the standard 60Hz one. You'll need a 240W power supply, but the image shows only an 180W one.