Gateway M505X/XL with 2GB - Page 4

I know this is an OLD thread, but I thought I'd share my M505X story in case it'll help anyone out there still running this nice laptop.

I've had my M505X since 2004. Here's what I've upgraded:

-maxed out the RAM at 2GB @ 166Mhz DDR (PC2700)
-running the WD scorpio 250GB drive (they eventually came out with a 320GB version, but at this point, it's not worth it to me to upgrade to "max" out the HD)
-upgraded the internal wifi minipci to an Atheros that by chance supports the 802.11G X2 proprietary protocol that my Netgear router has. The theoretical data rate is 108Mbps (basically two .11G channels binded together)
-upgraded the CPU from the original 1.4Ghz Banias to a 1.6Ghz Dothan. I am sure the laptop would take a faster CPU, but the 1.6Ghz dothan was a free donation from a dying Dell 600M

It's running Windows 7 Ultimate nicely, with complete Aero GUI on. There is some choppiness in the Aero GUI if I connect it to my 24" monitor (1920x1200) and have too many windows open. But on the laptop's monitor (1280x800), it's buttery smooth.

Hope this helps anyone who's thinking about upgrading their M505 laptop! And hey, if anyone out there wants to donate a faster dothan CPU in the name of scientifically testing how fast a M505 can really be, PM me

You are able to access the full 250GB in one partition?

cheers ...

Yep. I actually partitioned the drive into two but yeah there's no issue whatsoever.

Cool. I was hoping to see that you can access the full 250GB in one partition.

cheers ...