Can I install MXM3.0-A graphics card in a TouchSmart 520-1020 AIO?

[obviouslynotok]

I've upgraded my TouchSmart 520-1020 Desktop as far as online HP documentation covers, including new i5-2400S processor and 8GB of RAM. However, it still needs more graphics processing power. The HP specs page shows the motherboard supports MXM 3.0 Type A graphics cards @ <35W. It also says "Shared memory up to 256 MB" which I'm not sure I understand. Is that the maximum memory it supports on the graphics card?  I thought shared memory is when the graphics card uses a portion of the PC RAM, so not sure how that helps determine the supported hardware specs. If anyone has insight into what MXM III-A cards would be supported (e.g. does it have to be <=256MB on-board memory?) I would greatly appreciate it.  Also, need to know if there is a heat spreader/fan option for the MXM card that actually fits the TouchSmart casing.  I'm not adverse to slight modding, though.  Cheers!

[wb2001]

@obviouslynotok,

As you stated, your limited to less than 35W MXM 3.0 Type A cards.See your computer shown here.   Here are cards, but you will have to keep it to the <35W limit.    Shared memory means exactly that, it takes memory to bolster the MXM slot.

[obviouslynotok]

@Wb2001,

Thank you for taking time to respond!

 I had previously visited that graphicscardhub site, but I'm still wary of proceeding.  Should I be confident my BIOS will support ANY card that is MXM 3.0 Type A?  Also, as mentioned in my original post, should I invest in a heatsink for whatever graphics card I purchase?  From one YouTube video I found, it looks like a gentleman with a 520-1200 (mine is 520-1020) has an additional skinny radiator mounted in front of his CPU radiator.  I believe this is the heatsink used, but I can't be for sure.  I don't know if that was also added aftermarket, because the HP specs for 520-1200 doesn't list a manufacturer supplied MXM card. 

[wb2001]

@obviouslynotok,

Hopefully someone that knows those machines can chime in.  Your still limited to the 35W or less cards, so the premise of "ANY" card would be false.

[obviouslynotok]

Not sure anyone else cares about Touchsmart computers since they're old as dirt in PC years, but appreciate your help so far. I found an MXM 3.0a card that uses under 35W and also a GPU heatsink that is compatible (although couldn't find captive screws to attach it to GPU, had to guess on the amount of pressure to apply). Even after moving the display output connection from UMA LVDS to MXM LVDS, I get zero output on monitor when I power up PC.  Do you think that could be a driver or BIOS issue?  I was considering installing AMD graphics driver and new BIOS before installing GPU, but decided to first try it without to see if it works.  Now I'm frustrated that I have to uninstall everything again (you have to remove the CPU heat sink to get the MXM card removed, which is a real pain.)  Is it possible I could remove the power connection on the motherboard for the GPU in order to disable it so I can get back in and load driver, etc.?  I'm just not sure which connector to unplug. It's a Pegatron IPISB-NK and looks like two possible connectors  by MXM slot could do the trick.

[vixal]

I have the same issue have you manage to resolve this ? 

[Riddle_Decipher]

@vixal Thanks for sharing your concern with the HP Community,

here's what I'll need, so I may be able to provide an accurate solution:

What is the product number of your device? Use this link to find it: click here (Do you have the same product as the OP?)

(Ensure you do not share any of your personal information such as serial, phone number, email ID, etc.)

Have you attempted any steps on your own before posting on the HP Forums?

Please reply with the details for further assistance.

Eager to help!

To thank me for my efforts to help you,

feel free to give me a virtual high-five by clicking the 'Thumbs Up' icon 

And Have a great day Ahead!

[vixal]

HP TOUCHSMART PC 520

Model : 520-1000nl

Prod Nr: LN682EA#ABH

MXM : HP/AMD Radeon 7650A
             MXM 2GB DDR3 GFX Mobile Graphics Card
             671864-002

[Riddle_Decipher]

@vixal I must let you know that HP does not recommend or support upgrades on an All-in-one desktop, as the same is rather complicated and hardware changes to the device may render it unstable,

If you wish to process either way, you may do so at your own discretion, by contacting a local tech to be on a safer side.

That said, your device's motherboard has:

• One PCI Express MXM slot that supports a PCI Express x16 graphics card (Generation 2 speed)
• 150W external power adapter 

Personally, I suggest you keep this under consideration when upgrading the GPU as it needs to match the above specifications and you'll need to think about the size of the card too, as normal cards wouldn't fit.

If you wish to thank me for my efforts, you could click on "Accept as solution" on my post as the solution should help others too.

[vixal]

Sorry but answer unclear 

Does it support mxm 3.0 a less than 35watt

Or you mean mxm Ii card as I believe it's the above