Best Way to User Internal GPU on-the-go and AMD eGPU While Docked?

[Canadian_Eh]

What is the best way to accomplish this objective:

- While docked, the ROG ALLY X uses an eGPU and the associated AMD graphics card and driver for that card.

- When undocked, the ROG ALLY X automatically switches to the internal GPU and the ASUS-optimized AMD driver for it.

Right now, I have an AMD 7800xt in a Razer Chroma X.  When docked and connected, the eGPU is detected and works great.  However, when I go undocked and mobile, I get Error 31 on the display settings in Device Manager.  The Ally X is able to display a picture on the built-in screen and I am able to use the device, but I'm not benefiting from the optimized ASUS internal GPU video driver.

Has anyone cracked this type of scenario and made it super simple?  Docked use eGPU, grab-and-go mobile and it switches automatically to the optimized ASUS internal GPU driver to leverage the built-in screen.

[akadeepakjadhav]

1. Clean Driver Install:

A clean driver install is crucial for resolving driver conflicts and ensuring optimal performance.
Process:

Download DDU: Obtain the latest version of Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) from its official website
Boot into Safe Mode: Restart your Ally X and enter Safe Mode. This ensures that no interfering graphics drivers are loaded during the uninstallation process.
Run DDU: Execute DDU and select the option to completely remove all AMD display drivers. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
Restart: After the uninstallation is complete, restart your Ally X normally.

2. Install Internal GPU Driver:

Download the latest driver specifically optimized for your Ally X's internal GPU from the official ASUS support website.
Installation: Run the downloaded driver installer and follow the on-screen instructions. Ensure you select the correct driver for your operating system (Windows).

3. Test Undock:

Disconnect your Ally X from the dock and any external displays.
Observe: Check if the Ally X can display correctly on its internal screen.
Monitor for Errors: Carefully observe if Error 31 or any other display-related issues appear in Device Manager.

4. (Optional) eGPU Driver Install:

Only proceed with this step if the internal GPU is functioning correctly after the clean driver install and undocking test.
Source: Download the latest driver for your AMD 7800XT from the official AMD website or the Razer Chroma X support page.
Installation: Install the eGPU driver as per the provided instructions.

5. Docking Test:

Connect your Ally X to the Razer Chroma X dock.
Observe: Check if the system correctly detects and utilizes the 7800XT as the primary graphics card.
Test Applications: Run demanding applications or games to verify that the eGPU is functioning as expected.

Possible Causes and Further Investigation:

Driver Conflicts:
Residual files from previous driver installations can interfere with the proper functioning of both the internal and external GPUs.
Carefully review the DDU logs after the uninstallation to ensure all AMD driver components were removed.

BIOS/UEFI Settings:

Some BIOS/UEFI settings might influence how the system handles multiple graphics cards.Access your Ally X's BIOS/UEFI settings and look for options related to graphics switching, discrete graphics mode, or switchable graphics. Experiment with different settings to see if they improve stability.

eGPU Enclosure Power Delivery:

Insufficient power delivery from the Razer Chroma X can cause instability or prevent the 7800XT from functioning correctly.
Check if the Razer Chroma X has adequate power supply. Consider using a more powerful PSU if necessary. Monitor the power consumption of the 7800XT while in use.

Additional Tips:

Windows Power Options: Review and adjust Windows power settings related to graphics performance.
Device Manager: Check for any other device conflicts or errors in Device Manager.
System Logs: Examine Windows event logs for any error messages related to display drivers or hardware.

By carefully following these steps and investigating the potential causes, you should be able to resolve the Error 31 issue and successfully utilize both your Ally X's internal GPU and the external 7800XT.

Remember to document your actions and the results of each step to help pinpoint the root cause of the problem. If you're still encountering difficulties, reaching out to ASUS support or the ROG Ally X community forums for assistance might be beneficial.

[Canadian_Eh]

Thank you for the instructions and the extensive write-up.  However, the instructions as written do not achieve the objective.  Here is some additional information:

In Step 1, note that you cannot use a fingerprint nor a PIN to log into Windows 11 safe mode.  You have to adjust the settings to also allow for a password to be entered, otherwise you cannot get into safe mode.  Also, on the way into safe mode you have to enter the long numerical sequence due to BitLocker encryption.

Aside from those pieces of additional information, Steps 1-3 worked - I followed the instructions precisely.  However, at Step 4 the installation of the eGPU 7800xt drivers fail because the drivers won't install unless the uGPU is connected.  The AMD installer just errors out.  If you connect the eGPU to the Ally X, then the drivers for the 7800xt will install.

Once the 7800xt drivers are installed, then the native Ally X internal drivers give an error 31 when unconnected from the eGPU.  So we are back to my original question to the community:  How to co-exist the AMD 7800xt eGPU drivers with the internal AMD GPU drivers and easily switch between them docked vs. undocked?