Graphics Lag on MacBook Pro!

[mrjarvie]

I am experiencing lag during all graphical animations (expose, minimising windows, bringing up dashboard etc) on my brand new macbook pro - 2.4Ghz.
I initially assumed that my MBP had some sort of hardware fault and have talked with apple about getting a replacement - which they are happy to do. I tested a 2.2GHz MBP that was on display in town the other day for the same fault - it also lagged during graphical animations. So, now I am wondering if all MBP manufactured after a certain date have this lag problem - naturally I'm not too keen on returning my MBP only to receive a replacement with the same problem.
So, my question is:
does anyone have a MBP that does NOT lag and is completely smooth during expose and dashboard transitions etc?
I have noticed that the lag is only a problem when powered by the battery alone - no mains power - so please test without mains power. I also noticed that lag smoothes out after a few cycles (ie pressing 'F9', for example, several times)

all feedback appreciated.
Many thanks,
Adam

 

[tico24]

My SR MBP (2.4 15") was lagging on expose when I first got it.

One of the mac updates seems to have sorted it though (on both battery and mains power)

 

[noway]

the only time my MBP lag is when i open dashboard for the very first time after a boot. that's it

 

[Arkanok]

I have the 2.2 and mine generally doesnt lag unless there's a lot open, for example a quicktime movie, a few firefox windows, finder, itunes, msn, skype, ect... However, when i run purely on battery power, it lags even if there are only a few finder windows open...

 

[chex]

OS X is designed to optimise itself over time - maybe it'll be fine after a few days.

My 1.5GHz 12" PB has no lag so I'm sure yours will be fine after a bit...

 

[miniConvert]

I get some core animation lag on battery, I think the nVidia GPU is being underclocked too much/going into a too-deep power saving mode. I haven't noticed it recently (but could have just gotten used to it) so it might have been sorted, but it's not a big issue. And yes, repeating an animation a few times 'wakes up' the GPU and everything becomes nice and smooth again.

 

[mrjarvie]

I think the nVidia GPU is being underclocked too much/going into a too-deep power saving mode.

I see. Granted this is a minor problem, but is there any software that will allow the clock speed of the GPU to be increased?
Judging by the responses I'm thinking that getting a replacement MBP wont solve anything. Thanks a lot for all the input.

 

[Ayu]

Mrjarvie, you can always set up your energy preferences for maximum perfomance even when you're running on battery power - this will provide you very smooth graphical perfomance anytime but the battery won't last for a long time, maybe only a couple of hours or even less than that.

You should be aware that a 8600GT and a C2D CPU over 2Ghz are quite a powerful set of hardware, and the main reason people buy a laptop is because of their portability, hence the energy saving options have priority over perfomance when the system is not connected to the mains. I believe this is quite a good approach to what's important on a computer like this. If you want perfomance, then get it by modifying the energy options in the system preferences or by simply clicking on the battery icon in the menu bar and choosing maximum perfomance. Your graphics won't lag anymore and your battery will drain faster. It's up to you to choose which side is more important on the use you give to your laptop.

 

[miniConvert]

I personally think the issue will be rectified in future updates - you may want to register your complaint with Apple to help encourage that.

 

[iBunny]

I have no slowdowns on my MBP at all. After all the updates, I am good to go.

This is on AC, I havent tried on battery w/e