Video Card Upgrade for Laptop?

[elfangor801]

I have an HP Pavillion zv5160us with a 128 MB ATI Video Card. I got Battlefield 2 a little bit ago, and I can't play it...basically I need a better video card, but the good folks at HP say you can't upgrade laptop's video cards. Is there a way it could be done at a computer shop (i.e. Geek Squad)? I don't know how the insides of the computer work but I'm assuming it's built onto the motherboard or something.

 

[Turner]

I'm pretty sure that the 'video cards' are integrated onto the motherboard. So in order to replace it you'd have to tear a chunk of your motherboard apart and hope you got everything. Easier to get another laptop, IMO.

Normally, I don't appreciate what HP Support has to say, but in this case they're right.

 

[elfangor801]

I'm pretty sure that the 'video cards' are integrated onto the motherboard. So in order to replace it you'd have to tear a chunk of your motherboard apart and hope you got everything. Easier to get another laptop, IMO.

Well, that's why I was saying I'd take it to a professional computer place. And can't you buy new motherboards?

Normally, I don't appreciate what HP Support has to say, but in this case they're right.

I've actually found them to be really, really good, I love the 24 hour chat support thing.

 

[kcwong]

Well, that's why I was saying I'd take it to a professional computer place. And can't you buy new motherboards?

For desktops, yeah. Laptops are *highly* customized... they're quite different for each manufacturer. You *might* get your motherboard upgraded at your vendor, but I think they'll tell you to trade-in your current one for a newer model. I'll say the same too.

 

[elfangor801]

Aww shucks. Thanks anywho....now to find 1500 dollars .

 

[GenMarshall]

Well, they stuff the laptop's motherboard like sardines its quite difficult to upgrade them.

 

[Comraddict]

not difficult but impossible. that is why laptops aren't for long term gaming