Overview
This article describes the process of converting an MSI GE70-0ND-415RU laptop, based on the MS-1761 motherboard, from using a discrete NVIDIA graphics processor to operating solely on the integrated Intel GPU (UMA mode). The modification was necessary after the discrete GPU failed and rendered the system unstable.
Problem Description
The laptop powered on and booted into Windows successfully, but consistently froze on the desktop or displayed blue screen errors (BSODs). Hardware diagnostics identified the failure source as the NVIDIA N13E-GE-A2 graphics processor (GeForce GTX 660M).
Since replacing the GPU would be uneconomical—especially considering that the device also required cooling system repairs—the decision was made to disable the discrete graphics chip entirely.
Solution: Disabling the Discrete GPU
To force the system to operate on the integrated Intel graphics core, the power delivery to the NVIDIA GPU was manually disconnected.
Procedure:
- Remove Power MOSFETs:
Components PQ31, PQ32, PQ34, and PQ35 were desoldered, as shown in reference images of the MS-1761 board. - Remove Control and Switching Elements:
The associated control and switching components for the GPU’s power circuitry were also removed to ensure complete isolation.
This modification effectively disables the discrete GPU, allowing the laptop to run exclusively on the integrated Intel graphics subsystem.
Results
After performing the conversion, the system demonstrated stable operation:
- The cooling system functioned correctly, automatically adjusting fan speeds.
- All necessary drivers installed successfully.
- The laptop ran smoothly without freezes or crashes.
Conclusion
Converting the MSI GE70-0ND (MS-17561) to UMA-only mode provides a cost-effective solution when the discrete NVIDIA GPU fails. By isolating the GPU’s power circuit, the laptop can continue to operate reliably using the integrated Intel graphics processor.
This approach is particularly useful for older laptops where GPU replacement is impractical or not economically viable.
Photos of the repair process are attached below.
