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You are here: Experts > Shopping > Computer Peripherals > Video Card Problems > Laptop graphics card/gaming problems
Expert: Bobbert
Date: 9/1/2008
Subject: Laptop graphics card/gaming problems
Question
QUESTION: I am trying to run the game Everquest II on my laptop (toshiba m45 - s2692, 1.7 ghz intel centrino M, 2 GB RAM, 110 GB hd) and the graphics is the main issue (choppy, slow 3d movement) . I have read (on an unverified forum source) that EQ needs about 128 mb of graphics memory to run decently on the lower quality settings. My card (Mobile Intel(R) 915GM/GMS,910GML Express Chipset Family) has a maximum mem. of 128 mb, but when I run the game (on highest performance/lowest quality settings) the graphics memory in use is usually hovers around 58 mb. This was read by running the game and the graphics driver sys info windows simultaneously. I have wanted to replace the video card for some time, but would prefer a cheaper/easier alternative like maximizing my graphics memory for I am broke college student and am not very knowledgeable on this matter.
I would like to forget the major hassle I am dealing with in this card and would like to get a new one, if the total cost could be less than $200. This presents the issues of how to replace my graphics card and with what. I spoke with a tech support rep on toshiba's 800 number and was told that my graphics card could be replaced with a better one.
So, if I can allocate more graphics memory, how?
Or, if I need a new graphics card how do find out which one is compatible with my laptop?
Thanks for any help or info.
ANSWER: Well, you've contacted Toshiba about the upgrade, and thats going to be the only source of the upgrade for this system, so I'd go for it, as it seems your only option. As far as getting more performance, you've already allocated as much memory as you can, so to be quite honest, there isn't much else you can do except get a new computer (I know, that isn't exactly cheap), or accept the performance this one provides.
-bob
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: I talked to the Toshiba Rep, and because my warranty had expired the first two I spoke with were not willing to give much help. I called again a few days later and spoke to a third, who was nice enough to tell me that since I had an integrated intel 900 series, that it would be impossible to upgrade (soldered into the motherboard). I hope this will answer anyone who has my question in the future.
Answer
Ah, the reason I suggested purchasing the update is that you originally stated Toshiba offered an upgrade. Generally laptop graphics cannot be upgraded, and the general suggestion is to contact the manufacturer, as you did, to see if an upgrade is available.
As far as playing Everquest II on your system, to be honest, there isn't a lot you can do for it, you might try closing things in the background, and allocating a bit more memory to it, it might help a little, but I doubt it. Another option would be to disable everything, it will lower the visual quality of the game, but might allow it to be playable. Of course, the only real solution to make the game playable is to upgrade your hardware, the unfortunate part here, is that it requires replacing the entire system just to get a graphics adapter capable of handling this game (something like a GeForce 8600GT would do just fine).
-bob
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