Remote power on for CF-29 trunk monkey

I found this link which references using a PDRC setup to remotely turn on and power off a ToughBook. I am looking at using a CF-VDW07 wireless display instead and I am looking for a way to achieve the same remote power on for my CF-29 in a CF-WEB273 dock in the hatchback.



If I understand correctly, the PDRC hooks to the ToughBook dock via a single serial cable, so it stands to reason to me that there is something similar to wake on LAN via that connection. Does this signal come from something in the junction box or is it directly from the power button or something else in the screen? Is it possible somehow to replicate that signal without adding the PDRC hardware?



It seems that the PDRC setup would be the easiest route, but the display that comes with it is bigger than I wanted for permanent mounting in my tiny econo-box. I also prefer a display I can remove and take with me because I do not work in the best part of town and several of the local denizens would gladly remove it for me. And honestly, I am trying to do this cheap since it is just my daily commuter car.



So here is what I need:



1) Power on without having to open the hatchback every time. Turning it off can be done with Windows via the remote screen.



2) I use the ToughBook for other things and I want to be able to undock it easily so all mods have to be attched externally via the dock, completely internal to the laptop, or easily plugged into a standard port.



3) Inexpensive as possible

Reply 1 : Remote power on for CF-29 trunk monkey

I set up one in my buddies altima and I hotwired the CF-30 to be in the glove box permanently and it's powered by a little power button.



Let me dig up the thread.



Thanks

Reply 2 : Remote power on for CF-29 trunk monkey

Here is the install: ~Toughbook Talk~ Toughbook Discussion • View topic - My buddy's carputer



Let me find the one other thread of the CF-30 hotwire (VERY similar to the CF-29 too)

Reply 3 : Remote power on for CF-29 trunk monkey

DAMN! I can't seem to find the pics (they're here somewhere on NBR) of the hotwire job I did on my buddies CF-30...

Reply 4 : Remote power on for CF-29 trunk monkey

Quote:

Originally Posted by JB007Rules DAMN! I can't seem to find the pics (they're here somewhere on NBR) of the hotwire job I did on my buddies CF-30...

Did you check on your code page? It will show a list of all the pix you have posted. Look on the left side for the "attachments" link

Reply 5 : Remote power on for CF-29 trunk monkey

Quote:

Originally Posted by deere245 Did you check on your code page? It will show a list of all the pix you have posted. Look on the left side for the "attachments" link

GOOD CALL! However, I checked it and found nothing... I'm almost wondering if I took those pics and never uploaded them... Hmmmmmm, now to try to find them...

Reply 6 : Remote power on for CF-29 trunk monkey

Yeah... I can't find em DAMN!

Reply 7 : Remote power on for CF-29 trunk monkey

......................

Reply 8 : Remote power on for CF-29 trunk monkey

I might have to resort to my CF-28 permanently mounted if the only way is to wire directly to the switch. For my 29, I really have to be able to remove it and I really don't want to try and mod quick disconnects and maintain the watertight exterior too. I was really hoping someone knew how the remote power on/ off worked with the PDRC and if it was possible to replicate that. I'd even go so far as to tear apart one of those screens if I anyone has a dead one and see how the swich is wired and how it gets the signal to the ToughBook. Or just steal the switch.



But as I was writing this, a thought occured to me- mod the RF passtrough on the dock and wire that to the switch. Hmmmmmm.........

Reply 9 : Remote power on for CF-29 trunk monkey

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wyrm73 I might have to resort to my CF-28 permanently mounted if the only way is to wire directly to the switch. For my 29, I really have to be able to remove it and I really don't want to try and mod quick disconnects and maintain the watertight exterior too. I was really hoping someone knew how the remote power on/ off worked with the PDRC and if it was possible to replicate that. I'd even go so far as to tear apart one of those screens if I anyone has a dead one and see how the swich is wired and how it gets the signal to the ToughBook. Or just steal the switch. But as I was writing this, a thought occured to me- mod the RF passtrough on the dock and wire that to the switch. Hmmmmmm.........

Maybe Page 9; "Shutting Down (power off your computer);" will help: Operating Instructions: Panasonic LCD Monitor CF-VDL03

Dell Latitude DPC Latency Issues

I'm starting this thread to try to get a better handle on what is causing these DPC latency issues.



Please reserve this thread for issues that can be observed by using Thesycon's DPC Latency Checker (http://www.thesycon.de/deu/latency_check.shtml) or a similar tool.



Here are some links to threads where this has already been discussed:

• e6500 crackling audio (297054)
• New Latitude / Precision Intel Matrix Storage Driver / Manager (340138)
• Audio skips every 1 - 2 minutes on E6500 (328365)
• M4400 - BIOS A11 results (340946)
• m4400 sound isses! (346015)

As I've mentioned in the other threads, there are a lot of people here with seemingly identical issues - even though the underlying causes may vary. Please be sure to open support tickets with Dell Support to get them to address this issue: http://support.dell.com/support/topi...hnical_support



Include a link to this thread so they can see scope of this issue, and realize that eventually these comments will start scaring people away from the Dell line if these issues aren't fixed soon, if they haven't already. If you can't stand the traditional phone support, use the online chat or email options.



Finally, please consider answering the poll to help track any possible solutions.



If replying, please include a comprehensive list of system specifications. Vista or XP? 32-bit or 64-bit? Dell or Intel WI-FI? Intel or Nvidia graphics? Webcam or fingerprint reader? Etc., etc...



Edit: Just found this official Dell blog at http://en.community.dell.com/dell-bl...y-and-you.aspx, which includes the following update from Dell-John B on February 12:

Quote:

After participating in a conference call with the internal key players regarding this issue, I'd like to invite those who are still seeing this problem to message me personally with their service tag and case information, as well as a description of what you've done with support to try to resolve this issue since it began. I'd like to get that information into one place so we can expedite a resolution for those affected.

Thanks!!

Reply 1 : Dell Latitude DPC Latency Issues

specs in sig

Reply 2 : Dell Latitude DPC Latency Issues

Latest (8.7) Intel matrix storage driver / manager + either ODD or eSATA HDD causes latency of about 9ms.



However, I get no noticeable adverse side effects from this high latency.



John

Reply 3 : Dell Latitude DPC Latency Issues

I voted Other. I still can't pin down the culprit in my case.

Reply 4 : Dell Latitude DPC Latency Issues

From German Forum:

Quote:

Originally Posted by eXcalibur Leider nicht sry ... hatte den noch auf der HDD. Sofern ich dazukomme (bin auf Arbeit - aber ohne Lappi) kann ich ihn ja hochladen. Bzw auf dem ftp von Dell ist der nicht mehr? Gre, eXcalibur ./edit: ftp.us.dell.com - /SATA/ -> Intel_Matrix-Storage-Manager_A01_R190230.exe & Intel_Matrix-Storage-Manager_A02_R190227.exe mssten es sein

Follow the Link, at 1/3 of the page are the intel managers. Anyone try the A01/A02 versions and spread the Link if it works. Thanks Guys!

Reply 5 : Dell Latitude DPC Latency Issues

I will go ahead and try A02 right now.

Reply 6 : Dell Latitude DPC Latency Issues

At the moment, my best solution - though not perfect - has also been disabling the "media bay" in the BIOS, which should be about the same as removing the optical drive. While still enabled, my DPC latencies average 8000+ s. While disabled, I average about 500 s, but still have more occasional yellow spikes (above 1000 s) than I'd care for, and even sporadic red spikes (above 2000 s) - at least once every 30 seconds.



This is on my Latitude E6500, with the A02 Intel Storage Matrix manager, A11 BIOS, and all the other latest drivers and updates. Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit.

Reply 7 : Dell Latitude DPC Latency Issues

The onboard LAN is missing from the list. For me it got better after disabling the DVD/modular bay but the issue only disappeared after also disabling onboard LAN.



I'm running latest IMSM (8.7), A02 BIOS for m4400 (latest is A11), all latest drivers, issues are fixed in both XP and Vista ultimate 64

Reply 8 : Dell Latitude DPC Latency Issues

Quote:

Originally Posted by ziesemer ... Include a link to this thread so they can see scope of this issue, and realize that eventually these comments will start scaring people away from the Dell line if these issues aren't fixed soon, if they haven't already. ...

Sadly, this is the major reason I couldn't buy an E6400. I wanted to, but high DPC latency makes a hostile environment for audio recording (I'm a music major).



Kudos to you all for being persistent—I hope the issue will be resolved soon.



Dell, I hope you're listening.

Reply 9 : Dell Latitude DPC Latency Issues

Modular bay, onboard lan, and the wireless card (consistent high spikes in intervals of 30-60 seconds).



I have high DPC latency, but do not have any video/audio problems. But I have the M4400. Contacted Dell and their answer was to wait for new drivers/firmware/etc. Not very helpful news.

ua55c7000 problems

Hi I thought i would vent here....

I bought this crap 6 months ago,
First problem audio/visual sync problem.....new tuner board,
second problem NO 3D picture only sound....new main board total waiting time 3 weeks, 2 weeks waiting for tv to be collected,
Third problem, Ratle from subwoofer? seen first tech waiting to here if it will be fixed on site or taken away....
How much crap do i have to put up with before they will consider replacing this TV?

Reply 1 : ua55c7000 problems

Aparrantly after 3 repairs an aplication will be submitted for a replacement, the repaired TV will be delivered Monday, one day short of two weeks from fault reported (not too bad i suppose) we shal see how it goes now.

Reply 2 : ua55c7000 problems

OK
Tv was repaired FIVE TIMES!!! and still not working, got a new tv this week 2011 model UA55D7000, sat down today to wach a 3D movie with th family. The old glasses donot work with the new tv!!!!! Family of seven sharing one pair of glasses Five pairs not working (4 year old not interested). VERY UNHAPPY.

Reply 3 : ua55c7000 problems

While I can't guess the outcome, post a few transaction numbers and ask for exchanges of the of the glasses to match the new set. I can't tell if you asked but folk that don't ask, usually don't get far.

Reply 4 : ua55c7000 problems

True, don't ask, bon't get,
Itwas Satursay PM when i posted so i have to wait till mon AM to ring them, but as i was googling for a solution assuming it was somthing i wasn't doing right, but found that they had gone from IR sensors to Buetooth was when i thougt i would share my frustration.
Will update tommoroww

Reply 5 : ua55c7000 problems

Spoke to customer support and they needed serial and modle numbers, rang them later with same. Spoke again on Wednesday,They had no record of my call!!!!!.Rang today (thursday) and they do have a record of my call, they are going to swap/replace the glasses but............have NO STOCK. It has been 10 months and one person at a time can watch 3d!!!!!

Reply 6 : ua55c7000 problems

They are in the US, and they add those transaction numbers to their posts so it can be kicked up by our friendly helper at Samsung.

Reply 7 : ua55c7000 problems

Thank you
Herte are the tracking numers

1 4100045578 UA55C7000WFXXY 00.00.0000 Repaired Goods Despatched
2 4100072820 UA55C7000WFXXY 00.00.0000 Repaired Goods Despatched
3 4100455480 UA55C7000WFXXY 00.00.0000 Repaired Goods Despatched
4 4106533770 UA55C7000WM 00.00.0000 Repaired Goods Despatched
5 4106656777 UA55C7000WM 00.00.0000 Pending
Brian

Asus G73JH-TZ062V (G73JH-A2) HDD Bay issue

Heyas everybody,



I am happy owner of G73 for solid 7.5 months and I am starting to bunch-up several issues on my lappy.



1) Original stock Seagate drive doesnt work in Primary Bay. It just doesnt - it wont register in BIOS. However, it works just fine in Secondary Bay and I can get standard SMART data from it.. It also works just fine in other laptop and external enclosure



2) Screen flickers. Randomly, very rarely, screen does flicker in vertical, indicating either issue in GPU, cable or perhaps magnetization issue on the way from HDMI cable to external monitor (Cable is Belkin, Shielded and other cables around are shield too).



3) Last week, I have encountered a series of "deal-breaking" issues. The primary bay is now dieing all together - instead of the stock Seagate drive, I have put in Western Digital Scorpio Black 7200 rpm, 500GB drive. 3 times now, the system BSOD'd and the drive disappeared, had to be MANUALLY detected in BIOS and then placed in boot options. It works fine after this thou until BSOD happens again. The Original Seagate has been replaced in Primary bay by that WD 4 months ago just to get it chronological correct.



Temperature wise, the laptop is one of the rare pieces with running 78 celsia max on heavy load (BF 2 max-ed out, Supreme Commander 2 heavy, Adobe Photoshop HDR processing, WoW Ultra settings + HD movie on another screen).



Upgrade wise, using Stock Windows 7 64Bit Home Premium, bloatware removed mostly, Stock ATI drivers, Stock BIOS, Stock vBIOS.

No upgrades done on HW excluding the Hard Drive change + external monitor.

The Turbo mode is turned on, however, as mentioned before, temperature is stable and low.



HDD has been cloned for full backup so its ready to go if needed..



Possible Options:

Update BIOS

Update drivers (doubt that would fix anything thou..)

RMA (if not possible to repair, there are no more of these ATI-GPU laptops available in my country, only the Nvidia ones, so that would mean cash-on hand which I dont prefer)





I am open to any recommendations within limits. RMA process is quite easy in our country, we get free collection delivery plus quite large repair center in the country (Czech Republic) and my warranty is backed-up by the most reliable and solid IT shop in the country (ALZA), so if it comes down to this, I can live through but I would rather avoid this.



Also, there are about 2 other topics regarding similar issue () but no solution posted.

Reply 1 : Asus G73JH-TZ062V (G73JH-A2) HDD Bay issue

Anyways, don't use TwinTurbo, it worsens the performance.



Now for your fixes.



1) What BIOS version are you on? If its below 209/211, I suggest updating to 213. You can check this with HWINFO32



2) You should update to v93 vBIOS found on Chastity's thread in the ROG forums (there's a link on her sig too), and install either ATI 11.2 modified mobility version drivers , or 11.4 RC2 mobility version to see if it helps with your external monitor flickering issue.



3) You should install the latest Intel Chipset Drivers with the -overall parameter and also install latest Intel Rapid Storage Drivers. These can be found in intel drivers pour chipsets (under chipset and matrix storage manager)

Reply 2 : Asus G73JH-TZ062V (G73JH-A2) HDD Bay issue

1) Yeah, BIOS update is on schedule for me. Will pop in 213 from ROG site and deploy via FAT 32 USB 4GB thumb drive via in-BIOS EasyFlash (or should I go via WinFlash?)



2) I've done BIOS update on Asus MB before, but never on GPU chipset. I will check Chastity's thread for info, thanks for heads up.



3) This is quite some news to me. Would have thought that HW like bay communication and data transition from SATA controller would be affected just by BIOS update. I guess I am ment to run these via batch command since you put -overall in there.



Thanks for the info, been a while I've been on these forums and evidently this laptop's issues have developed into new SW patches.



Cheers,

-Mel

Reply 3 : Asus G73JH-TZ062V (G73JH-A2) HDD Bay issue

Quote:

Originally Posted by Melgarh 1) Yeah, BIOS update is on schedule for me. Will pop in 213 from ROG site and deploy via FAT 32 USB 4GB thumb drive via in-BIOS EasyFlash (or should I go via WinFlash?) 2) I've done BIOS update on Asus MB before, but never on GPU chipset. I will check Chastity's thread for info, thanks for heads up. 3) This is quite some news to me. Would have thought that HW like bay communication and data transition from SATA controller would be affected just by BIOS update. I guess I am ment to run these via batch command since you put -overall in there. Thanks for the info, been a while I've been on these forums and evidently this laptop's issues have developed into new SW patches. Cheers, -Mel

Use ASUS Ezflash with a FAT/FAT32 Thumbdrive. Flashing in Windows in with WinFlash is doable, but not advised. If you do use WinFlash, make sure you're using the latest version, or you'll brick.

Reply 4 : Asus G73JH-TZ062V (G73JH-A2) HDD Bay issue

Had a similar issue with drive detection when trying to install my new SSD.



In the primary bay the SSD would not show up in bios or in windows when in AHCI mode.



It did however show up fine in IDE mode.



Did bios update and tried the restore to default trick (something you need to try if you did not already is reset bios to default and reboot) none of those worked.



However if I swapped the drives and put the SSD in the secondary slot and the HDD in the main slot it worked fine. So I just had to change the boot order in the bios and I was fine after that, just a strange behavior.

Reply 5 : Asus G73JH-TZ062V (G73JH-A2) HDD Bay issue

Will do the BIOS update with Easyflash then, Thanks Frosty! =)



@Vicious: It is indeed strange behaviour and even more so that it happens with the default Seagate drive provided with the G73! Thats like buying a car which doesnt work with its engine but you have to buy a new one, different brand :S



Will do those updates one by one and see the results. May take a week to notice the change (no BSOD, flickers) due to their frequency of occurance.



Again, thanks guys for help with troubleshooting!



-Mel

Reply 6 : Asus G73JH-TZ062V (G73JH-A2) HDD Bay issue

I am back with more news:



Nothing helped

BIOS/vBIOS updated, Intel drivers for HDD's updated, temps are very low and HD tune reports no issue with HDD, no virus with NOD32 and Microsoft security essentials..



I still keep getting BSOD's, once/twice a week.

The latest one (5 mins ago) was during:

1)installing Crysis 2

2) having Webex business conversation

3) browsing Google chrome (11 tabs open)

4) Skype



Thats all.. my work laptop can manage the same without any issue, let alone this "beast" of a laptop G73!



Any more suggestions please?

I guess its coming close to RMA



-Mel

Reply 7 : Asus G73JH-TZ062V (G73JH-A2) HDD Bay issue

http://pcaudio.ath.cx/stuff/infinst_auto.exe



Download and run it with default settings... should force update all Intel INF drivers.

Reply 8 : Asus G73JH-TZ062V (G73JH-A2) HDD Bay issue

Ok, just tried installing that and it caused a crash.



Also just tried installing Crysis 2 alone and it caused crash (from virtual disc).

So it seems the issue is Software after all



Gonna switch to safe mode and use the patch, hopefully that will cur it..

Thanks, Mel

Reply 9 : Asus G73JH-TZ062V (G73JH-A2) HDD Bay issue

This sounds like a hardware issue to me.

Get back to us and let us know if the drivers do anything.

mSata for W520

I just wanted to quickly confirm....is this the mSata SSD that will fit inside the W520 in the WWAN slot?



Newegg.com - Intel 310 Series (Soda Creek) SSDMAEMC080G2C1 mSATA 80GB mSATA (mini PCIe form factor) MLC Internal Solid State Drive (SSD) - SSD

Reply 1 : mSata for W520

Yes. There is no other mSATA drive around other than the 40GB version.

Reply 2 : mSata for W520

I opened up my W520 just to take a look (I ordered mine without the WWAN option), and there is a little piece of placeholder material and the leads for the WWAN sitting there with covering on the ends.



If I didn't know better, it's almost as if Lenovo is wanting us to buy those Intel 310s and put them in our W520s.

Reply 3 : mSata for W520

At $190, it appears that the 128 GB C300 SSD at $200 and about $40 for the ultrabay caddy is a far better deal unless you need the optical drive a lot.



Well maybe not. You get 2/3rds of the C300s space, fast boot times, get to keep your HDD in the Slot 0 and can keep the optical drive in the machine at very little increased cost/GB over the C300/Ultrabay Caddy combo.



Perry

Reply 4 : mSata for W520

Quote:

Originally Posted by pkincy At $190, it appears that the 128 GB C300 SSD at $200 and about $40 for the ultrabay caddy is a far better deal unless you need the optical drive a lot. Well maybe not. You get 2/3rds of the C300s space, fast boot times, get to keep your HDD in the Slot 0 and can keep the optical drive in the machine at very little increased cost/GB over the C300/Ultrabay Caddy combo. Perry

Where do u get the ultrabay for $40? I thought it was $60.



Also, what's a good price for a 320GB (or 500GB) 7200rpm HDD?

Reply 5 : mSata for W520

^^^ The Ultrabay Hard Drive Adapter III is $60. 320GB 7200rpm HDD around $55, maybe less if your watch for daily deals on Newegg.

Reply 6 : mSata for W520

So, I just bought an mSata 80GB as my boot up drive. Currently I have Windows which came with the laptop and I installed a dual boot Ubuntu 11.04 beta.



Can anyone help me out with what I need to do to make the mSata my boot up drive for Windows and Ubuntu (and my applications like Matlab, ...) and then partition the 500GB HDD correctly (I guess I should ask whether I actually need to do that in the first place)?

Reply 7 : mSata for W520

There may potentially be 3 bootable drive: mSATA, main drive, Ultrabay drive. You edit the boot sequence in BIOS to set the mSATA as the first. With F12 on ThinkPad start-up, you can select another boot drive other than the default.



One idea: How about putting Ubuntu on (a partition of) the main drive?

Reply 8 : mSata for W520

What's the install order? Windows 7 first or linux? Does the Windows BDE thingy understand linux?

Reply 9 : mSata for W520

Quote:

Originally Posted by Thors.Hammer What's the install order? Windows 7 first or linux? Does the Windows BDE thingy understand linux?

Traditionally you'd install windows first, because linux always was a much better "neighbour" and respects other OS already installed.



It's possible that the windows installer has finally cought up though...

E6x00 software to manage LAN/Wireless?

We used to use quickset with D620/D630's, but the quickset for the E6410 seems majorly bloated.



Is there another, lightweigt, software that you can use to turn off/disable the wireless when you plug in the LAN?

Reply 1 : E6x00 software to manage LAN/Wireless?

Something smaller, and more lightweight then Dell ControlPoint Connection Manager would be awesome.

Reply 2 : E6x00 software to manage LAN/Wireless?

I think it's possible to do a custom install of Control Point such that you only install the features you want. Either way, it's not really anymore bloated than the old QuickSet, especially if you installed *all* of QuickSet's features.

Reply 3 : E6x00 software to manage LAN/Wireless?

but how, they don't have it for 6410?

Reply 4 : E6x00 software to manage LAN/Wireless?

Quote:

Originally Posted by vivithemage but how, they don't have it for 6410?

Did you check the BIOS for a LAN/WLAN switching option?



Does the WLAN device have a property 'disable upon wired connect' on an advanced driver tab?



Another solution: http://www.wirelessautoswitch.com.



Could try Task Scheduler triggering on a hardware event source and id. When the LAN cable is connected (E100B and 18 for my NIC), run the DevCon command-line utility to disable the WLAN device. May require more tasks to manage the whole user experience. And may not result in the immediate release of already-issued WLAN IP addresses.



GK

Vanilla Windows install hangs on disk.sys

Hi.



I'm trying to fix a Pavilion dv9823em. When I got it for repair, it would start booting and then go into some auto repair mode (some sort of HP tool I suppose). It would say that it is trying to repair Windows and then say that it can't repair and would not allow the bootup to continue.



I installed a fresh Vanilla version of Vista. The install disk loaded Vista onto the hard drive and then tried to boot into it. It hang with the message that "critical drivers are missing".



I then tried installing Windows 7 (thinking that it could do with the upgrade anyway). It installed, tried to boot into Windows and hang. I tried safe mode and I could see that it hangs after loading disk.sys.



I wondered if this was because of a missing hard drive driver. I checked the bios if it had a "compatibility" setting for booting without Sata drivers (like my Thinkpad does), but no such setting exists.



I checked the HP website for hard drive drivers as these can be installed during the Windows install. No such drivers exist.



The Bios has a hard drive testing tool which says that the hard drive needs replacing. But if this is true then why is it able to read the hard drive and get as far as loading the disk.sys driver?

Reply 1 : Vanilla Windows install hangs on disk.sys

Is the HDD in good health?

Reply 2 : Vanilla Windows install hangs on disk.sys

Quote:

Originally Posted by RAMBO29 Is the HDD in good health?

You think that I should do some more tests on the health of the HDD? I didn't think of that because the Windows install disk successfully writes to the HDD, and gets half way through booting. I would have thought that a HDD either works or doesn't.

Reply 3 : Vanilla Windows install hangs on disk.sys

It could be a secot in the HDD not so good.If it happened to me I would start from there, then subsitute the media,look for HDD settings in BIOS(not so obvious ones).



Can you boot with Hirens CD?if so may be a copy and paste might work for this sys file.

lg x140

hi please help me to get lg smart recovery

HP 8460w, 8560w and 8760w official?!

HP Fansite has posted news coverage on them already:

http://hpfansite.com/hp-elitebook/hp...tions-official



These guys seem to be on top of everything eh?!

Reply 1 : HP 8460w, 8560w and 8760w official?!

Very impressive indeed. Too bad that 8460w doesn't have Dreamcolor as an option. Also, what's up with the red/orange pointing stick? Thinkpad ripoff.



Let's hope build quality is top notch.

Reply 2 : HP 8460w, 8560w and 8760w official?!

I am drooling but definitely can not afford one with DreamColor monitor. It will be between 8560w and thinkpad W520. And thinkpad will win on price tag.

Reply 3 : HP 8460w, 8560w and 8760w official?!

Very strange that the 8760w will release with a weaker ATI GPU than the 8740w, especially given that the nvidia options will no doubt continue to cost an arm and a leg.

Reply 4 : HP 8460w, 8560w and 8760w official?!

The most disappointing part is the average power consumption:



nw8240: 28.5 W

nw8440: 39 W

8510w: 12.5 W

8530w: 26 W

8540w: 27 W

8560w: 42 W



Not much of a problem for 17" users, but I guess the smaller models are more often used with the battery as the power source.



U.S. QuickSpecs

Does upgrading hardware invalidates warranty? Latitude E-6520 question.

I just made a purchase order for Dell Latitude E6520. I decided to not take any upgrade options thru DELL because they are very expensive.



For example : upgrading from 320G to 500G is 160$ where as I could get the 500G from outside for less than 100$.



Memory from 4G to 8G is 160$. It's available online/and some shops around 50$ (not exactly but close).



1. Is it advisable to upgrade the memory ? I need 8G memory as I am planning to install vmware and multiple linux nodes and build a cluster on it.Do I loose any warranty if I add more memory thru comusa or bestbuy? I am getting 4G ram with 1 dimm so the addition of additional dimm 4G should be simple.



2. I need to upgrade from 320G to 500G. I am wondering how I can transfer the OS to the new drive? I am ordering recovery disk so is it as simple as putting the recovery disk for windows 7 with xp mode and install it on the new hard drive? Also is any issue with warranty if I fiddle with hard drive.



3. I just ordered it yesterday so I have an option to take 3yr accidental warranty for 100$ as it already comes with 3 year basic warranty. Is it recommended? My last dell inspiron e1505 started loosing pixels and having lines on the screen after 2-3 years.



4. I was told that the max capacity for e6520 is 500G. Is it true? I can see that compusa has 2.5" sata drives that are 750GB capacity.



5. If I upgrade my hard drive to 500GB, the hard drive that comes default with 320GB will be wasted. Can I use it in the e-module bay. Is there any easy way to do.



Thanks to all GURUs in advance for the advise. I can play with software but never been a hardware guy so your advises/comments/suggestions are very valuable to me. I know it's a lengthy question but I put all my doubts in one post.



Thanks.

Reply 1 : Does upgrading hardware invalidates warranty? Latitude E-6520 question.

You don't lose your warranty through upgrading the RAM or the hard drive. In fact, I was on the phone with a dell rep earlier and they told me even if I upgrade the CPU I can still put the old one back in and use the warranty.

Reply 2 : Does upgrading hardware invalidates warranty? Latitude E-6520 question.

Thanks. ed1754. Also, how do I replace the hard drive and keep the same OS? compusa wants 100$ for transferring the contents of hard drive. Can I do with recovery CD or it is more complicated?

Reply 3 : Does upgrading hardware invalidates warranty? Latitude E-6520 question.

You can use software like Acronis or Ghost to "image" a drive.



CompUSA probably just migrates data, OS will not be reinstalled.



Upgrading customer replaceable parts (RAM, HDD) will not void the warranty UNLESS improperly installed. Also Dell will not cover the replaced parts.

Reply 4 : Does upgrading hardware invalidates warranty? Latitude E-6520 question.

Quote:

Originally Posted by vishnuyarra I just made a purchase order for Dell Latitude E6520. I decided to not take any upgrade options thru DELL because they are very expensive. For example : upgrading from 320G to 500G is 160$ where as I could get the 500G from outside for less than 100$. Memory from 4G to 8G is 160$. It's available online/and some shops around 50$ (not exactly but close). 1. Is it advisable to upgrade the memory ? I need 8G memory as I am planning to install vmware and multiple linux nodes and build a cluster on it.Do I loose any warranty if I add more memory thru comusa or bestbuy? I am getting 4G ram with 1 dimm so the addition of additional dimm 4G should be simple. 2. I need to upgrade from 320G to 500G. I am wondering how I can transfer the OS to the new drive? I am ordering recovery disk so is it as simple as putting the recovery disk for windows 7 with xp mode and install it on the new hard drive? Also is any issue with warranty if I fiddle with hard drive. 3. I just ordered it yesterday so I have an option to take 3yr accidental warranty for 100$ as it already comes with 3 year basic warranty. Is it recommended? My last dell inspiron e1505 started loosing pixels and having lines on the screen after 2-3 years. 4. I was told that the max capacity for e6520 is 500G. Is it true? I can see that compusa has 2.5" sata drives that are 750GB capacity. 5. If I upgrade my hard drive to 500GB, the hard drive that comes default with 320GB will be wasted. Can I use it in the e-module bay. Is there any easy way to do. Thanks to all GURUs in advance for the advise. I can play with software but never been a hardware guy so your advises/comments/suggestions are very valuable to me. I know it's a lengthy question but I put all my doubts in one post. Thanks.

Upgrading your system does not violate the warranty unless you damage something. But it can make warranty claims more complicated since Dell does not warranty your upgrades. Sometimes one might choose to hold the original Dell component in reserve for use to resolve a warranty claim.



1. If you need RAM, add RAM. It is advisable to add matching DIMMs. This is easist to do by ordering the smallest amount of RAM from Dell and then replacing it with your matched DIMM upgrade. Check newegg.com and amazon.com for pricing. Check the Dell documentation online for memory spec.



2. Users fiddle with the OS and hard drive from the moment they get their system, So Dell is not too concerned with this warranty-wise... unless you abuse them with your negligence. Your options are to clone the OEM drive to your upgrade drive, or clean install the OS and drivers on the upgrade drive. I prefer the later approach... it keeps your OEM drive in reserve and gives you a known current stable image.



3. The accidental is cheap insurance. Your call. I would put it on a highly mobile key system.



4. The hard drive capacity limitation is historically legacy controller and OS related. I don't know of any such limitation on current SATA controllers and Win7.



5. There is a sticky thread in this forum about adding a second drive. Dell offers a second drive for the E6x20s. You'll have to investigate the size and assembly constraints. Would displace your optical drive and increase the weight.



GK

Reply 5 : Does upgrading hardware invalidates warranty? Latitude E-6520 question.

Thanks a lot for your reply.

Need advise to upgrade Memory for Samsung R40

We got an OLD Sumsumg Laptop NP-R40K003/SHK with

512M PC2-4200 533Mhz DDR2 SDRAM SO DIMM 200-pin.



Please advise as what memory upgrade path can this OLD R40 be.... Can we replace the 512M with 2x1G ?



Since it is OLD, we have hard time to get info from Samsung site. we would not need to buy another laptop because it still runs our applications well...DO NOT

NEED SPEED!



TIA

Reply 1 : Need advise to upgrade Memory for Samsung R40

The R40 specification here shows the maximum memory as 2GB (ie a 2 x 1GB upgrade should be possible).



The SamsungPC.com website may also have other useful files for the R40. It used to be the Samsung UK download site and is no longer updated and, fortunately, Samsung have not closed it yet.



John

Gizmodo: Samsung Installing Keyloggers?

Wanted to pass along an article just posted on Gizmodo:



Gizmodo, the Gadget Guide



http://www.techspot.com/news/43063-s...keylogger.html



I'm not a Samsung laptop owner, but I thought this would be of interest for you guys. The article cites the issue came up with the R450.



I certainly hope it's not true...

Reply 1 : Gizmodo: Samsung Installing Keyloggers?

Absolutely unforgivable if so. That'll end whatever hopes Samsung had for good US sales here.



Believe me, I'll continue to do my clean installs for now on. On any computer I own and buy.

Reply 2 : Gizmodo: Samsung Installing Keyloggers?

Samsung responds to installation of keylogger on its laptop computers



Bad news for Samsung in terms of PR. Will it impact my future buying decisions? No. I pretty much haven written off Samsung as a consumer brand. Samsung is a hopelessly clumsy company when it comes to PR. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if the "explanation" is entirely genuine. The real problem is that Samsung is clueless when it comes to the consumer market. A keylogger to figure out how customers use their products? Yup.



Personally, I think that Samsung should simply ditch all of its consumer products. Period. I'm not suggesting a boycott, just that Samsung products aren't worth buying to begin with. Samsung is a capable supplier of components for consumer brands, not a viable consumer brand, at least in my informed opinion.

Reply 3 : Gizmodo: Samsung Installing Keyloggers?

Quote:

Originally Posted by linuxwanabe Personally, I think that Samsung should simply ditch all of its consumer products. Period. I'm not suggesting a boycott, just that Samsung products aren't worth buying to begin with. Samsung is a capable supplier of components for consumer brands, not a viable consumer brand, at least in my informed opinion.

I agree that Samsung still have a lot to learn. Perhaps the oriental origin means that they don't yet understand western customers. However, to say that their products are not worth buying means that you haven't looked very hard at their product range. Samsung are among the market leaders in mobile phones and TVs while some of their notebooks are outstanding. See the new Series 9 / ZX310, for example.



John

Reply 4 : Gizmodo: Samsung Installing Keyloggers?

Well looks like it was a false alarm due to the guy's choice of antivirus software:



UPDATE: Samsung keylogger could be false alarm



Samsung's sadly going to have to do major damage control. I can't help but worry that their response wont be good enough. Only their Korean language only blog appears to have any news refuting this while it should really be on the homepage for each region they sell laptops in. We also know how people love to pick on Samsung statements who's meanings are often lost in translation (7 inch galaxy tab sales, quote about how the old tab 10.1 was "inadequate"...etcetera)

Reply 5 : Gizmodo: Samsung Installing Keyloggers?

that so called 'security expert' is a loser. if he had done the leg work like analyzing hashes of the hidden file, find drivers, registry entries, etc that ultimately lead to the false positive at least he gets some respect. But no, he uses a commercial virus scanner and doesnt check anything himself and then proceeds into a hissy fit. lol, hilariously lame.



its also hilarious so many people are acting like simpletons/plebeians. they listen to hearsay and they ignorantly run with it.

Quote:

Originally Posted by John Ratsey ...the oriental origin ...

wow, the 'oriental'? i didnt know we still lived in the 60s?

Reply 6 : Gizmodo: Samsung Installing Keyloggers?

Quote:

Originally Posted by John Ratsey I agree that Samsung still have a lot to learn. Perhaps the oriental origin means that they don't yet understand western customers. However, to say that their products are not worth buying means that you haven't looked very hard at their product range.

I've looked very hard at their current tablet and smartphone offerings. I might not be an Apple fan, but offerings like the Galaxy Tab have convinced me that Apple product might just be worth the premium.

Quote:

Originally Posted by John Ratsey Samsung are among the market leaders in mobile phones and TVs while some of their notebooks are outstanding. See the new Series 9 / ZX310, for example. John

As far as the Series 9, I'm not sure why Samsung is trying to market a MacBook Air clone, since the air line hasn't been such a hit and the whole subnotebook market has been a flop?



I think it's pretty telling that Apple has taken the unprecedented step of doing market research to reinvigorate the MacBook Air line. Rumor has it that we'll be seeing Sandy Bridge MacBook Airs in the next couple of months.

Reply 7 : Gizmodo: Samsung Installing Keyloggers?

Quote:

Originally Posted by linuxwanabe I've looked very hard at their current tablet and smartphone offerings. I might not be an Apple fan, but offerings like the Galaxy Tab have convinced me that Apple product might just be worth the premium. As far as the Series 9, I'm not sure why Samsung is trying to market a MacBook Air clone, since the air line hasn't been such a hit and the whole subnotebook market has been a flop? I think it's pretty telling that Apple has taken the unprecedented step of doing market research to reinvigorate the MacBook Air line. Rumor has it that we'll be seeing Sandy Bridge MacBook Airs in the next couple of months.

i agree about the current galaxy tab.. bulky, heavy, and runs an older android os.. but i'd wait to see how the new galaxy tab 10.1/8.9 are and compare those to the ipad.



the MBA is currently gaining a lot of sales recently.. in 3 months, apple sold just a bit over 1 million. as ultraportables get more performance out of their portable sizes.. i believe that sales will continue to grow. the MBA was a flop at first due to the gpu being weak (apple initially used intel igp), but once nvidia was included, along with adding SSD (which really took care of the bottleneck) this improved overall performance greatly.

Reply 8 : Gizmodo: Samsung Installing Keyloggers?

Quote:

Originally Posted by ledzepp14 i agree about the current galaxy tab.. bulky, heavy, and runs an older android os.. but i'd wait to see how the new galaxy tab 10.1/8.9 are and compare those to the ipad.

Well, there's still the controversy over whether Lee Young-hee said Galaxy Tab sales were "quite smooth" or "quite small." That sort of PR mistake is part of the reason people were so willing to embrace this current snafu.



As far as upcoming Android tablets, the Motorola Xoom has gotten 3.0 off to a rocky start - no Flash on display models. I can't help but think that someone will eventually produce a decent Android tablet, although I'm still waiting...and waiting....and.....



Personally, I think that Samsung was badly damaged as a tablet brand by how they launched the 7" Galaxy. The display model's I tested felt unbelieveably slow and laggy - almost as bad as a crappy $100 resistive touch e-reader. And the initial pricing.....$700 plus a two year contract....no way.



Yes, I know they're discounted now, but it's pretty much a dead product at this point. As far as Samsung phones, none has the perceived quality of the iPhone. I'm not impressed.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ledzepp14 the MBA is currently gaining a lot of sales recently.. in 3 months, apple sold just a bit over 1 million. as ultraportables get more performance out of their portable sizes.. i believe that sales will continue to grow. the MBA was a flop at first due to the gpu being weak (apple initially used intel igp), but once nvidia was included, along with adding SSD (which really took care of the bottleneck) this improved overall performance greatly.

As far as the MacBook Air, there's currently some sort of clearance at MacMall of on the current MacBook Air 11 inch. We'll be seeing an update soon, and the weak NVIDIA GPU is going bye-bye, probably not just from the Air, but also from the MacMini and white plastic MacBook.



As far as sales, Apple still isn't apparently happy with MacBook Air line. No, I don't believe the rumored shift to ARM processors, at least not for the models coming in the next couple of months.

Reply 9 : Gizmodo: Samsung Installing Keyloggers?

@John Ratsey

First off, as a Korean and for the phrase 'oriental origin' to come up does sound rather... discriminatory. Well, at least that's what it sounds like it's implying. But that's my opinion. And you're of course entitled to yours.



Samsung and Korean tech is on par and on quite a number of fields surpasses Japanese products in term of price and reliability (LCD panels for example; Samsung supplies Sony the displays for their low-mid end offerings). From what you're implying, Japanese tech (eg Sony) being also oriental == primitive. It is just not the case. I have worked at Korean research facilities and trust me. We're high tech and the Japanese are just managing to keep up. And from what I (and many others) see, Samsung LCDs are darn common and sort after in Western countries, as are mobile phones, fridges, washing machines etc etc etc.



On the subject though.

This news was quite a surprise. I have had instances of keyloggers in Samsung machines, but not in laptops.



I bought a 1GB YP-T8 (MP3 player) back in late 2005. It was a high-end device having motion detection and all. The moment I got home from the store I connected her up to my PC and Norton 2005 (which I was using at the time) threw up messages of keyloggers trying to autorun. It was stopped, so not too much of an issue. Though I was wondering WHY a new product (sealed and all) had a keylogger in memory in the first place.



Skip forward to early 2007 and I bought another Samsung MP3, this time a low-end 1GB YP-U2. Again, brand new and sealed packaging. And again, I connected her up to a PC the moment I got back from the store to charge and move songs.

...and AGAIN, another keylogger, this time stopped by AVG. I should have kept a screenshot of the issues.



Once, ok, maybe a coincedence. Twice? I don't think so. Though since I assumed that the factory making these devices were using bad NAND chips, I didn't think much about it. It's common for Chinese-assembled flash-chips to come loaded with malware even today. Though granted, the T8 and U2 supposedly have Korean-made Samsung chips (and not Chinese built Samsung chips / no-brands) so there was that inconsistancy. But with both devices being MADE IN CHINA, that's what I assumed and dismissed the issue; probably some jerk-ward who wasn't taking his / her quality-control job seriously or a nutter thinking it's funny loading run-off-the-assembly-line devices with malware. Anyways, that UNTIL THIS PIECE OF NEWS REGARDING THE LAPTOPS EMERGED (albeit a false alarm).



I remember having a scrap piece of paper around from 2005 on which I wrote down the keylogger's generic name and what it was targeting. Will have to search for it (provided it hasn't been thrown out) but I'll update once I find it. I unfortunately did not keep a record of the keylogger from 2007 so can't confirm whether the 2005 and 2007 versions are the same.



I also have an old Samsung NT-R45 never came across malware with the factory OS installation. I'd like to revert back but have no idea how to boot the recovery partition. Currently running a clean install of XP Home with a seperately purchased driver disc from Samsung Korea.



EDIT

Can't find the scrap paper. It used to pop up once every two months or so when I extreme-cleaned my place up. Can't do that now with due dates and whatnot looming. I do recall seeing the thing once last year but can't remember where I put it (if I didn't throw it out that is).



Don't get me wrong. As a Korean I suffer from a sorta brand-loyalty syndrome. I'm not the type to bash a company as long as it produces reliable, usable, and well-respected-by-the-masses devices. But this recent issue, coupled with my 2x personal experiences in the past, does question my personal brand-loyalty-foundations with Samsung... This despite the nutter who found the so-called malware being discredited. I now have lingering doubts...



Can't comment on Samsung products these days as the last Samsung I bought was a YP-U2. Been using my phone (a Sony Ericsson) as a MP3 player and camera since 2008 so haven't had the chance to go by a new product. Would I buy a Samsung today if I had the opportunity? Probably, yes. Though I'd scour the net for reviews and research heavily before commiting. Actually, I've had my sights set on the GT-S8500 recently...

My Dell Inspiron 6400 Problem.

Hi There

I own a dell inspiron 6400 and my initial problem was that my laptop couldnt get past the boot screen (where the windows logo appears).

The first thing i tried to do was install a copy of windows 7 onto it booting straight from the cd. However, again the different windows 7 logo screen appeared and seem to crash at exactly the same point as when i tried to boot it straight from my hard drive which has Vista on it.

Next thing i did was run a Diagnostics test on my system and all kinds of errors appeared which basically said your hard drive is knackered. (All tests had big red crosses with failure next to them)

So i thought, need a new hard. So I ordered a new Samsung 320gb SATA hard dive to replace my Western Digital 80gb SATA drive.

My hard drive arrived today so i took the old one out and replaced it with my new one. I loaded up my BIOS and it shows up there all ok. I then ran the Diagnostics tests again and it breezed through them no problems. (Excitement slowly building) .

I then boot from the cd with Windows 7 in it and it again stops in exactly the same point as it did before i had replaced my hard drive.(Excitement quickly dies and is followed with a blood vessel nearly pooping in the side of my head).

I tried a Re installation CD with my vista home basic addition on again booting from cd. And it hangs in exactly the same place.

If i just leave it to boot through the hard drive it comes up with the message. No Boot Sector on internal hard drive.

I have no idea what to do please help me

Reply 1 : My Dell Inspiron 6400 Problem.

But I can't tell what "place" the installer is dying on.

Try this. Remove any added RAM, unplug any USB things and try again.

Try this next. Head to the BIOS and load factory defaults. Try again.

Bob

Reply 2 : My Dell Inspiron 6400 Problem.

I havent added any RAM have unplugged usb devices and tried restoring factory defaults.
It hangs when the Windows logo appears and freezes on the loading bar at the bottom of this screen

Reply 3 : My Dell Inspiron 6400 Problem.

When I see a machine like this I know that something has failed OR the Windows CD is from some other machine.

As a test I'll boot an UBUNTU LIVE CD (see google) and if that hangs we know the machine needs repair.

" Disable USB keyboard and USB mouse in BIOS
Disable LAN in BIOS
Disable FDD in BIOS Disable Sound in BIOS "

Do you see the line of thought there? Disable anything you can in the BIOS, change the SATA emulation to IDE, AHCI, SATA NATIVE and test each version.
Bob

CF19 Emissive KB - Where to Buy

I have now ordered this KB from 3 different places on line and each one has eventually cancelled my order. What is the deal with this keyboard. Do I have to apply for a permit to get one or something? Its easier to buy a gun!!!



Where is a good place to get one at a reasonable price?



Jason

Reply 1 : CF19 Emissive KB - Where to Buy

Quote:

Originally Posted by kb9kst I have now ordered this KB from 3 different places on line and each one has eventually cancelled my order. What is the deal with this keyboard. Do I have to apply for a permit to get one or something? Its easier to buy a gun!!! Where is a good place to get one at a reasonable price? Jason

There is a mandatory 14 day waiting period to purchase such harsh items for the CF-19.



~Rob - likes his fiances CF-19 Emmisive keyboard and protects it with his many guns...~

Reply 2 : CF19 Emissive KB - Where to Buy

Not your typical retailer name or website, but I have successfully ordered from Universal Mania. They have a CF-WKB193VM listed.

Reply 3 : CF19 Emissive KB - Where to Buy

Sorry for offtop. I can't understand why this keyboard is so expensive. CF-29's emissive is ~USD 50. I will wait for this price

Reply 4 : CF19 Emissive KB - Where to Buy

It's a nice add-on ,if you can afford it

They are around $275 , the same as the cf-29/30 ,for new

The reason you don't see used models on the market is that they keyboard has only been available for less than a year

There is no used on the market

I paid $100 for my cf-19 rubber keyboard,

I was not willing to spend the extra $ as the keys are a bit small for my tastes and for typing I use the full size on my cf-30

Reply 5 : CF19 Emissive KB - Where to Buy

I've paid $50 for my CF-19 rubber keyboard and have a new plastic keyboard as a spare. More than 200 bucks for keyboard sounds hmmmm crazy for me

Reply 6 : CF19 Emissive KB - Where to Buy

Quote:

Originally Posted by BaRRmaley Sorry for offtop. I can't understand why this keyboard is so expensive. CF-29's emissive is ~USD 50. I will wait for this price

If you could find me CF-29 emmisive keyboards for $50USD, I'll take a 100 of them please...

Reply 7 : CF19 Emissive KB - Where to Buy

Quote:

Originally Posted by BaRRmaley I've paid $50 for my CF-19 rubber keyboard and have a new plastic keyboard as a spare. More than 200 bucks for keyboard sounds hmmmm crazy for me

Rubber keyboards are DIRT cheap because NO ONE wants them...... The emmisive ones are in HIGH demand and LOW production...

Reply 8 : CF19 Emissive KB - Where to Buy

Quote:

Originally Posted by BaRRmaley I've paid $50 for my CF-19 rubber keyboard and have a new plastic keyboard as a spare. More than 200 bucks for keyboard sounds hmmmm crazy for me

It's a nice keyboard



I pay $40 for the new basic stock type cf-29 type, the tablets are not common so your spare cf-19 if in good shape is worth over $50

If you have a $400 laptop ,yes $200 might be a crazy price

Backlit keyboards are a nice feature though and Panasonic is not known for walmart pricing

I have noticed over the years here that quite a few members have expensive newer Toughbooks

Any of the cf-19/74/30/31 are $2000+ if purchased new

Personaly the highest I have paid was $3000 for a new CF-30, c/w that nice expensive backlit keyboard as an option

Reply 9 : CF19 Emissive KB - Where to Buy

I still have my original emmisive from when I had my CF-29 waaaaaay back in high school (which was April of 2005) - I've carried it through my CF-30 and now it's on my brand new CF-31... It's pretty worn out but I love it and it just keeps ticking! It just goes to show...

Dell XPS 17 (L702x) Touchpad & Keyboard

Hello,



Could owners comment on the touchpad and two mouse buttons. I've seen/heard very little written about them so far. The reason I ask is because I do a lot of work in photoshop. My current Inspiron 1720 is very smooth and accurate to use with scrolling in both directions. However my wife's newer Inspiron 1545 is irratic and pretty lousy. I'm also not interesting in an external mouse.



Is the keyboard the chiclet type? How's the quality of construction, flimsy, solid or? Does it work pretty well overall?



I'm also interested in the Asus N73JQ/N73SV. But notebookcheck gave it a pretty bad review:

Quote:

The keys click loudly and have a clear key stroke length. The pressure point is distinct, but hard. After a few hours of the click staccato, most users will voluntarily connect an external mouse.

As a side note I recently bought a Sager 5170 and found the mouse buttons almost unusable they were so hard to click. An external mouse is would have been mandatory for any extended usage/work. I am returning it today for a number of reasons.



Thanks,



Derek

Reply 1 : Dell XPS 17 (L702x) Touchpad & Keyboard

Quote:

Originally Posted by dereksurfs Hello, Could owners comment on the touchpad and two mouse buttons. I've seen/heard very little written about them so far. The reason I ask is because I do a lot of work in photoshop. My current Inspiron 1720 is very smooth and accurate to use with scrolling in both directions. However my wife's newer Inspiron 1545 is irratic and pretty lousy. I'm also not interesting in an external mouse. Is the keyboard the chiclet type? How's the quality of construction, flimsy, solid or? Does it work pretty well overall? I'm also interested in the Asus N73JQ/N73SV. But notebookcheck gave it a pretty bad review: As a side note I recently bought a Sager 5170 and found the mouse buttons almost unusable they were so hard to click. An external mouse is would have been mandatory for any extended usage/work. I am returning it today for a number of reasons. Thanks, Derek

The keyboard "backlit" is very well constructed,and looks well and is a pleasure to work with,as for the touch pad I still find it not very responsive some of the time,compaired to my Inspiron 9400 even after using the setup software.But all in all is nice unit.

Reply 2 : Dell XPS 17 (L702x) Touchpad & Keyboard

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris Murphy The keyboard "backlit" is very well constructed,and looks well and is a pleasure to work with,as for the touch pad I still find it not very responsive some of the time,compaired to my Inspiron 9400 even after using the setup software.But all in all is nice unit.

Sounds good, thanks for the input.

Dell Satisfaction Poll

Are you happy with your Dell laptop?

Reply 1 : Dell Satisfaction Poll

Yup. My E1705 has worked great!

Reply 2 : Dell Satisfaction Poll

My Opinion: Yes... but I have regrets (explain)





Yes, dell support has be very bad to me. they made my laptop worse (inspiron 630m). My laptop was in good condition, just a small prob. MADE IT WORSE.

Reply 3 : Dell Satisfaction Poll

Yes....But have regrets.

My 1505 is great but i think if i looked around harder i could of found something less expensive. Support has been great, no complaints there.

Reply 4 : Dell Satisfaction Poll

Yes, D420, 3lbs w/ 6cell battery runs for 3:30hrs

w/ 9cell, 6:30 hrs.....

Core Duo ULV for longer battery and productivity.

and GMA950 saves a lot of power=)

Only drawback, the battery is wearing a lot faster than I expected...

Reply 5 : Dell Satisfaction Poll

I'm satisfied with mine...

Reply 6 : Dell Satisfaction Poll

Got my inspiron 6400, it's great!

Reply 7 : Dell Satisfaction Poll

I guess you get what you pay for, so I am not that upset...but...

Dell support is so bad...it is like a tragic comedy. Also, I wish Dell would put rubber around the edges of their dvd drives to mute the rattling...

but the hardware I got for the price with the 25% off was pretty good.

Reply 8 : Dell Satisfaction Poll

Dells done me right thus far, I've had a few issues, but in the end, my problems have alwatys been resolved to and above my satisfaction.

Reply 9 : Dell Satisfaction Poll

I am very happy with my X1 from Dell outlet. No regrets at all!

is ipad2 available at US factory unlocked.?

hai.,
Is ipad2 available at US online store (at&t) factory unlocked.?
will it be usable with any gsm sim in any country.?

Reply 1 : is ipad2 available at US factory unlocked.?

NO. The iPad2 is not sold unlocked.

Don't know the answer to that one


P

Toshiba M645

I am very interested in this new Toshiba M645 that is coming out June 20th.



Any idea (since it is customizable) what configuration Best Buy will have?

I know the processor has an option of an I3, I5, I7, or AMD.....Any chance Best Buy sells this with the I5 instead of the I3 or the AMD?



Also, any chance Best Buy has this model with the optional 7200rpm hard drive?



The Nvidia Optimus comes standard with this model, correct? What about lighted keyboard, is that a standard feature?

Reply 1 : Toshiba M645

No clue... I just recently found out about this laptop. I like it, but I am leaning toward the M640 (14"). If it has decent battery life, I may have found a winner. But I can't find any specs on these yet.

Reply 2 : Toshiba M645

I was looking for a new laptop and found the a660

Toshiba Satellite A660-047 w/ Core i5-450M, 4GB, 640GB, DVD+/-RW, 16in HD LED, GeForce GT 330M, Win 7 Home Premium at Memory Express Computers

this is a canadian website so im not sure if there are any major differences

im hoping the m640 or 645 come out in canada but they're no where to be found on the website

Reply 3 : Toshiba M645

What are the differences between the M640 and M645 exactly? What I can tell so far is they're actually the same product being sold in different regions with different model names.

Reply 4 : Toshiba M645

I could be wrong, but it looks like the m645 is pre configured and the m640 is customizable? I have been looking for awhile, and that is really all I can tell. I saw the Best Buy model for $800 online (although it says backordered). It looks like a great deal. The only knock on this laptop is the weight... 6lbs. Also, I looked at the detailed spec sheet on the toshiba website. They said it had a 5 hour life on 6 cell and 10 hours with a 12 cell.

Reply 5 : Toshiba M645

M645 Is the model available at retailers and 640 is the version direct from Toshiba. Also some BBs have the M645 in stock.

Reply 6 : Toshiba M645

I just purchased my M645-S4050 from best buy. It's nicely set up for the money. Battery is bigger than I need, but if I end up keeping it I will purchase a 6 cell battery for general usage. Wish it had the backlit keyboard and bluetooth, but for the money the same setup with toshiba is over 1000.00. It's a very nice unit. I just got it so I have much to get to know, but overall a very nice piece and quick.

Reply 7 : Toshiba M645

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigd I just purchased my M645-S4050 from best buy. It's nicely set up for the money. Battery is bigger than I need, but if I end up keeping it I will purchase a 6 cell battery for general usage. Wish it had the backlit keyboard and bluetooth, but for the money the same setup with toshiba is over 1000.00. It's a very nice unit. I just got it so I have much to get to know, but overall a very nice piece and quick.

Any pictures that you could post up? As I am thinking about this unit as well.

Reply 8 : Toshiba M645

Here are some pics i just took. So far I really do like this laptop. Solid feel and build. Nice and quick. Well laid out. Battery life is really good considering it comes with such a large battery. Any questions or specific pic you want let me know...

Reply 9 : Toshiba M645

How does the weight feel? I know its heavier, but is it still relatively portable? Any heat issues? Are you getting 10hrs on the large battery?



Can you take a pic of the lid? Is it finger print resistant? Thanks.