walther

Thanks for the input guys. I tried blind flashing but it didn't work. I'm not sure how it didn't brick my BIOS, but its still working fine. Ill wait for svl7 to find a way to flash the unlocked version over A08.

I've tried the blind flash back to A05, but it gets stuck in post until I pull the plug. I didn't think secure boot would stop it from flashing, so I will try again with it off.

I'm stuck on the A08 until there's an easy way to flash the unlocked version. The keyboard command to switch GPUs will work for now.

I recently started getting boot loops right after POST on my m11x-r2. I haven't changed any hardware since the day I got it. I've had Ubuntu installed for a while so I severely doubt a virus could have caused this. Here's what I've tested: Ran the Pre-boot System Assessment. No errors. Pulled the battery and plugged the laptop into the wall. Removed the SSD and tried it in my m17x. Boots without issue. Tried the SSD from my m17x. Tried booting without a drive, no 'No boot device detected' message. Removed the ram and tried both sticks in my m17x, as well as a 2gb stick I'm not using in the m11x. One of the RAM sticks produced a beep code(two beeps) when I tested each one in my m11x(including both DIMM slots). Reset BIOS settings to default. This is the first hardware problem I've had after three years. I cannot find any information on resetting the CMOS or where the battery is for it. I'm looking for any help, even if its a long shot, and I'm perfectly capable of disassembling the laptop past the cover, but I have not done so yet. EDIT: Fixed it. There was an issue with my BIOS, but I was able to blind flash an older version.

I updated my BIOS to A08 and installed a clean windows 7 with UEFI. At first I was unable to install the AMD driver(supplied by their site, not from dell). I used FN+F7 to switch GPUs and it installed fine, however when I use FN+F7 to switch back to AMD hybrid the Catalyst Control Center gives me an error stating I have no AMD GPU installed. Do I need to use the old driver supplied by Dell? I don't really need the integrated chip, and there is undoubtedly better performance with it off, but its a nice feature to have.

I would have to say that it truely depends on what you're looking for. The m14x is easily replaced by any ultrabook on the market with the same/similar specs, and a potentially lower price. You are basically just paying for the branding. The m17x and m18x are completely different. No other gaming computer company builds truely unique and high powered gaming laptops, and as far as I know the m18x is the only laptop with dual GPUs. I don't think its necessary to get into the desktops because its very easy to build your own and save a chunk of change, or get that upgrade you couldn't afford if you purchased the Alienware.

I've always been hesitant to re-paste my laptop but I may do it for safer temps when overclocking. Thankfully there's plenty of guides online for disassembling my laptop.

I've had an R2 for three years and its still running strong. The only issue was the hinge breaking but Dell was happy to fix it.