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2011 MacBook Pro and Discrete Graphics Card

I have an early 2011 MacBook Pro (2.2 GHz Intel Core i7, 8 GB 1333 MHz DDR3 memory) running OS 10.8.2. It has two graphics components: an AMD Radeon HD 6750M and a built-in Intel HD Graphics 3000. Since I've had the computer, the screen would get a blue tint when the computer switched between them.


However, as of two days ago, the problem has become substantially more severe. The computer was working fine, when all of a suddent the screen when completely blue. I had to force restart the computer. Since then, the screen has gone awry on numerous occassions - each time necessitating a hard reset.


I installed gfxCardStatus, and have discovered that the computer runs fine using the integrated card, but as soon as I switch to the discrete card - the screen goes .


I am just wondering what my options are (any input on any of these would be appreciated!):


1) Replace the logic board. Would this necessarily fix the issue?


2) Is there any way to "fix" the graphics card?


3) Keep using gfxCardStatus and only use the integrated graphics card. This is definitely the easiest/cheapest option, but to have such a computer and not be able to use the graphics card seems like a real shame.


4) Is there any other alternative?


MacBook Pro, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.2), 2.2 GHz Intel Core i7, 8 GB memory

Posted on Feb 1, 2013 4:45 PM

Reply
13,550 replies

Oct 15, 2014 6:14 PM in response to Prwn

Same here. I rarely restart unless I am forced to. The main reason safari gets bogged down is because I always have so many windows open at once, even using gfxcardstatus. Then I dump some windows, reopen safari and it works fine till the same thing happens. Of course it's worse now since gfxgate. LOL Good name for it.


After posting that last post, I noticed my gnu was running on dynamic switching mode. I forgot to check it after it restarted. I then switched it back to integrated and it froze. Oh, dear. It all started with TIME MACHINE. That is the second time that program has messed me up.


The first time, Time Machine kept my computer from going to sleep. I had to change it from using USB 400 to USB 800. Then it would let the computer sleep.


Today, the time machine said latest updates were delayed because the disc had been removed. It hadn't. I looked and it was not even listed as a device. Then I switched it from dynamic to integrated and it froze. Does anyone think maybe the time machine is causing these problems?


In response to getsu, you are right, it's really SAD. Sad that my 2500 dollar 2 year old MBP is messed up. SAD that apple won't say anything or discover what is causing the problems and fix it. That is SAD.

Oct 15, 2014 6:52 PM in response to abelliveau

Two days after emailing Tim cook I got a call from Apple stating they would cover the cost of the repair a booked a appt for me which is cool. However they didn't claim any responsibility for the defect or recognize that this is an issue even with the "repaired" gpu. Even went on to state if the card fails after 90 days I have to foot the bill, which it will most likely fail on day 92. Still this is a start even if Apple is making it seem like they're doing us a favor, but not owning up to not only the design flaw but that the repairs have also seen a high failure rate doesn't still well with me either I'll keep you guys posted. As I side not I was able to do some tracking on the email I sent. Interesting that my email had 60 view before I got a call. If you send a email it definitely will go to someone, which is a good thing.

Oct 15, 2014 8:34 PM in response to abelliveau

Add me to the list.


Late 2011 15" MacBook Pro.


Took it to the Mall of Atlanta Apple Store on Monday Oct 13. My genius ran a few tests then offered to fix it for $500 in house or $310 if they sent it out. I declined.


Not really sure why I'm posting, no one is reading these except us. But here's a record that I'm having the issue.

Oct 15, 2014 11:07 PM in response to abelliveau

MacBook Pro 2.2GHz Intel Quad-Core i7 (15-inch DDR3) Late-2011

Memory upgraded Crucial 8GB Kit (4GBx2) DDR3 PC3-10600 Unbuffered NON-ECC 1.35V

HDD upgraded to SSD Intel 330 2.5 SATA3 120GB 25nm MLC (SSDSC2CT120A3K5)

Superdrive replaced with the original HDD

Using Dell UltraSharp U2713HM at work and no external monitor at home.


Broken image, screen split in half and freezes problems started in Mountain Lion continued after update to Mavericks.

Now it reboots with gray screen, single user mode and all types of resets don't work.


++ <Add me to the list>

Oct 15, 2014 11:12 PM in response to Atryx

Hi MBP users,


Anyone with the same GPU issue, appreciate if you can add value to your complaints by doing the following. Unfortunately, Apple does not monitor this forum.


  1. Call Apple Care Contact Apple for support and service
  2. Point them to this thread. Ask them why Apple is keeping quiet on this known issue?
  3. Get a case number and inform them to follow up with the on-site/certified Apple service provider.


They "should" offer a sound/amicable solution.

cheers

Oct 16, 2014 2:23 AM in response to JKKiang

JKKiang wrote:


Anyone with the same GPU issue, appreciate if you can add value to your complaints by doing the following. Unfortunately, Apple does not monitor this forum.


  1. Call Apple Care Contact Apple for support and service
  2. Point them to this thread. Ask them why Apple is keeping quiet on this known issue?
  3. Get a case number and inform them to follow up with the on-site/certified Apple service provider.


They "should" offer a sound/amicable solution.


Believe me, Apple does keep an eye on this forum, but not from a viewpoint of offering service. Also, Apple knows about the radeongate, but expects to survive by ignoring it. And, yes, they should offer a solution, but they will not, as it will cost money they would rather sit on.


<edited by Host>

Oct 16, 2014 2:47 AM in response to eezacque

This is my opinion. Apple is doing something about this however, they cant issue a recall just yet because it is very likely caused by design flaw which is related to the GPU. Apple Service Provider verbally told me that some users have had their logic board replaced 4 times but to no avail.

It is funny how the logic board/GPU works well within the first 24 months before giving way. After that, even changing logic board does not help anymore. Every logic board replacement lifespan is less than 3-mths (had mine changed twice).


There is no benefit in issuing a recall programme now when there isn't a solution yet.


Hence, I am assuming Apple is working round the clock to find a solution before issuing a recall program. Just like the other recall programmes, it always come with a solution.

Let us all hope and pray that Apple do the right thing asap.

2011 MacBook Pro and Discrete Graphics Card

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