Nvidia GeForce4 4200 Go - Memory Errors

[goombawaho]

I KNOW that the video card is having memory errors because the Dell diagnostics said so. The other reason being the funky patterns on the laptop screen when it's booted up (looks like somebody ran an eraser over a white board in spotsz) AND the funky lines on the screen in BISO setup even when output to an external monitor.

Sooooooooooooooooo - having said that, I'm buying a refurbished replacement from Dell. Problem solved. But, is there any reason to keep the old one?? Does anyone take them and replace the memory chips on them to make them "refurbished" again???

Just want to know if I should recycle it or try to sell it somewhere.

 

[kmcferrin]

If it's the same model as the new/refurb AND you're fairly handy I'd consider keeping it for parts.

________________________________________
CompTIA A+, Network+, Server+, Security+
MCTS:Windows 7
MCTS:Hyper-V
MCTS:System Center Virtual Machine Manager
MCSE:Security 2003
MCITP:Enterprise Administrator

 

[Nelviticus]

It's unlikely to be a discrete (i.e. replaceable) graphics card and the memory chips will almost certainly be attached using surface-mount technology, which makes them almost impossible to replace.

Nelviticus

 

[goombawaho]

No it IS a replaceable card (I already have it out). It only took 3 minutes to remove the keyboard and video card - 5 screws.

My real question was about the memory chips on the surface of the video card from where (I'm assuming) the errors are coming and whether they were replaceable. It should probably just be recycled.

I know there not replaceable by me. I don't get a soldering iron near any computer - not that bold or stupid.

 

[Nelviticus]

Aha, discrete graphics cards in laptops aren't that common which is why I assumed yours would be built in.

SMT chips are difficult to replace even for professionals apparently so unless it's a high-value graphics card it wouldn't be economical to refurbish it.

So are you getting a refurbished graphics card from Dell or a refurbished laptop? As it's a discrete card you could just get a new card without having to ditch the whole laptop. Assuming they still make them!

Nelviticus

 

[goombawaho]

I'm getting a card only. I got the laptop for free so it's worth replacing the card. I'm three steps ahead of you - get up to speed man!!!!

 

[kmcferrin]

I misunderstood and thought you were getting a refurb laptop as a replacement. Since it's just the card and not end-user serviceable, I'd drop it off at a local electronics recycler.

________________________________________
CompTIA A+, Network+, Server+, Security+
MCTS:Windows 7
MCTS:Hyper-V
MCTS:System Center Virtual Machine Manager
MCSE:Security 2003
MCITP:Enterprise Administrator

 

[goombawaho]

Actually, our city accepts that type of "junk" and takes care of it for free. Time to get rid of that analog-only 19" TV set too at the same time.