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The AlienWare M17x R3 bios is a rather standard configuration by InsydeH20. The user can configure boot order, wireless status and you can even overclock the system if you wanted to try. We generally advise against overclocking laptop systems, as the cooling systems are often fine tuned to specific heat thresholds.
The bios can be updated within Windows, much like the Intel configuration, ideal for inexperienced users.
Several processors can be configured on the Dell site: The 2630QM (2.0ghz/6mb cache), The 2720QM (2.2ghz/6mb cache) and the 2820QM (2.3ghz/8mb cache). This 2630QM can reach 2.6ghz under Turbo mode. It is a 64 bit quad core design with Hyper Threading and it runs via a 20x multiplier.
The Alienware M17x also has two graphics solutions onboard (Optimus technology), an integrated Intel HD and the nVidia GTX 460M which is built around the 40nm process and features 192 CUDA processors with 24 ROPs. It has 1.5GB of GDDR5 onboard connected via a 192 bit memory interface. It supports CUDA, PhysX, Direct X 11, Shader Model 5.0 and Blu-Ray acceleration. Core speed is set at 675mhz while the memory runns at 625mhz.
When the system is idling or not under heavy 3D demand, the Intel HD solution handles the display to conserve battery power and to reduce the internal temperatures. Dell also offer a 6970 2GB graphics solution if you fancy moving to the other side. A red chassis can also be purchased from Dell, if you fancy something a little brighter. Our system ships with a large 2.5inch 256GB Samsung Solid State Drive (PM810).
The Alienware lighting system is very impressive and it can be controlled by dedicated software which is supplied preinstalled on the system.
The variety of options on offer should keep even the most demanding enthusiast users happy. If you don't like any of the colour options they can be disabled completely.
The backlighting has improved on earlier solutions, it is more ‘even' across the board and we particularly like the blue and white schemes.
The video above shows the Alienware head pulsating. The eyes light up to match the hard drive activity.
