Expansion Port 3 - video card

[AxelFen]

While I know very little about, I understand that "expansion port 3" on my dv9700 laptop is used to hook up to docking periphrials. As my integrated nvidia card is shot (I'm currently using the default VGA drivers) I was wondering if there was any way too hook up an extenal video card. Normally I would think not, but someone mentioned it and it got me thinking. So, any chance? Or any other way to fix a busted video card?

[DavidPK · Accepted solution]

Hi,

You would need an MXM port which your notebook doesn't have - these cards are expensive to say the least.

Another option you may want to consider is to have your existing graphics adapter re-flowed - the guy on the link below has a good reputation for this so it may be worth considering.

http://cgi.ebay.com/HP-DV2000-DV6000-DV9000-TX1000-Laptop-No-Video-REPAIR-/260674058980?pt=LH_Defaul...

Regards,

DP-K

[Huffer]

Reflow is the way to go because when your video chip fails completely as it will sooner rather than later, you would not be able to boot the system so that an external video card would work. They do make external video cards but they are usb or expressport devices and would not even require use of the dock. The dock might make it a bit easier, however. But as stated above, they cost a fortune.

http://askville.amazon.com/external-video-card-laptop/AnswerViewer.do?requestId=8722491

[AxelFen]

Right now I have my nvidia display adapter disabled, so I'm using the default VGA. Does this mean I'm bypassing the video chip? If so, what good would it do to reflow? If I'm not bypassing the chip, but it is dying, then why do I get video at all (using VGA)?

Thanks for your help though, I'll look in to reflowing. I don't really know what it is, but I can probably google it.

[DavidPK]

Hi,

You're still using the video chip, but the VGA drivers will put very little stress ( the chip will not generate much heat ) on it, whereas the Nvidia drivers are able to utilize its full power - however this causes considerably more stress ( so more heat ) and will highlight any fault present.

Reflowing is basically re-making the solder connections between the video chip and the Motherboard - these can deteriorate over time due to heat and the connections become seperated causing the issue you have.

Regards,

DP-K