Video card on laptop?

[Royal]

I want to get a video card for my laptop but I'm not really sure if its possible. Some people tell me I can and some don't. The integrated isn't working too well for ffxi so I kind of need an actual card. My laptop is an Alienware if it makes any difference.

[Killgannon]

you cant purchase a video card for a laptop. sorry. upgrade your laptop or upgrade the ram in the laptop is about the only thing you can do

[Sigi]

Depends, Alienware had an upgrade program for their graphic cards a while back. Your best bet would be to contact Alienware to see if that service is still possible/ your system is eligible.

And yes, it IS possible to upgrade your laptop's graphics card.

Just it's a severe pain in the ass.

[Alphavision]

Many laptops are capable of at least running the game (albiet slow). Laptop manufacturers do not allow video card manufacturers to release drivers because the video card is integrated. More info and a work-around for ATI drivers is available here: http://www.driverheaven.net/modtool/

For reference, I have a Toshiba Satellite 1115-S103 -- bought in 2001.
1.5 GHz Celeron Mobile
512 MB DDR266
20 GB Hard Drive
16 MB ATI Radeon M6 LY

Originally flopped when trying to run FFXI with Toshiba's outdated drivers. It wasn't until this summer after using the Mod Tool with 6.4 Catalyst drivers am I able to run the game. I still prefer my desktop, but there are cases when I travel and cannot use it.

[Popeh]

you cant purchase a video card for a laptop. sorry. upgrade your laptop or upgrade the ram in the laptop is about the only thing you can do

Although may not be entirely accurate, but that's the best way to view it.

Upgrading anything else in a laptop can prove very expensive and often not worth the result. You'd be best looking at the mod link already posted and saving your cash for a possible new purchase.

[Isiolia]

There are some laptops that have the video card on an upgradeable board of some kind.
However, they are by far the exception. The vast majority are built onto the motherboard.

Definitely contact Alienware. Chances are, even if you can upgrade something, part selection would be limited, both in distribution and choice.