no touchpad-less X220?

are all the options for this model comes with trackpad? really bummer, I don't use the trackpad love the touchpoint only. Am I missing something here?

Reply 1 : no touchpad-less X220?

you can disable the touchpad, it won't interfere with your trackpoint use.

Reply 2 : no touchpad-less X220?

from tabook.pdf, all have the trackpad... unfortunately for you

Reply 3 : no touchpad-less X220?

bummer, it was optional in the x201. thought that I've missed an option on current offers.

Reply 4 : no touchpad-less X220?

Just deactivate it and you will be good ...

Sony Z11 - NVIDIA Optimus

Discussion started on My discoveries on VaioZ's Hybrid Graphics. but I think that it deserves new topic.



Optimus is new technology from NVidia that will greatly simplify hybrid graphics solutions for users and manufacturers.



Here are some links:



http://www.nvidia.com/object/optimus_technology.html

http://www.anandtech.com/mobile/showdoc.aspx?i=3737

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fdb2VrUdT4k



From my point of view as future Z owner, most important thing about optimus drivers is not been dependent on Sony for NVidia drivers, especialy now when Z is more capable gaming machine.





For start this is what our road worrier Zoinks manage to do so far:

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZoinksS2k I'll try now. Set the tri-switch to Speed (both adapters only show when the tri-switch is set to speed.) Uninstall everything Install the latest Intel drivers Install the Nvidia Optimus driver pack For #4, the nv_disp.inf now appears to be nvram.inf. What's the best course of action here to get the installer to recognize the card? A little CTRL-C/CTRL-V for the pciven bits?

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZoinksS2k Well, something happened. Device manager, in SPEED mode after installing (EDIT: uninstalling): Installed the Intel HD Driver Copied the following from the Sony driver's NVMVSZ.INF Code: [NVIDIA_SetA_Devices.NTamd64.6.0] %NVIDIA_DEV.0A2B.01% = Section003, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A2B&SUBSYS_905A104D %iILKGM0.0% = iILKM0, PCIVEN_8086&DEV_0046&SUBSYS_905A104D [NVIDIA_SetA_Devices.NTamd64.6.1] %NVIDIA_DEV.0A2B.01% = Section004, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A2B&SUBSYS_905A104D %iILKGM0.0% = iILKM0, PCIVEN_8086&DEV_0046&SUBSYS_905A104D Into the nvam.inf in the Optimus driver dir Code: [NVIDIA_SetA_Devices.NTamd64.6.0] %NVIDIA_DEV.0A35.01% = Section069, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A35&SUBSYS_12521043 %NVIDIA_DEV.0A35.02% = Section069, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A35&SUBSYS_12721043 %NVIDIA_DEV.0A72.01% = Section073, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A72&SUBSYS_13321043 %NVIDIA_DEV.0A74.01% = Section075, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A74&SUBSYS_12A21043 %NVIDIA_DEV.0CAF.01% = Section069, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0CAF&SUBSYS_12B21043 %NVIDIA_DEV.0A2B.01% = Section003, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A2B&SUBSYS_905A104D %iILKGM0.0% = iILKM0, PCIVEN_8086&DEV_0046&SUBSYS_905A104D [NVIDIA_SetA_Devices.NTamd64.6.1] %NVIDIA_DEV.0A35.01% = Section070, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A35&SUBSYS_12521043 %NVIDIA_DEV.0A35.02% = Section070, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A35&SUBSYS_12721043 %NVIDIA_DEV.0A72.01% = Section074, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A72&SUBSYS_13321043 %NVIDIA_DEV.0A74.01% = Section076, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A74&SUBSYS_12A21043 %NVIDIA_DEV.0CAF.01% = Section070, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0CAF&SUBSYS_12B21043 %NVIDIA_DEV.0A2B.01% = Section004, PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A2B&SUBSYS_905A104D %iILKGM0.0% = iILKM0, PCIVEN_8086&DEV_0046&SUBSYS_905A104D Installed, rebooted and now have this in Device Manager (machine only boots when AUTO is selected in the tri-selector): View from the Nvcpl I'm guessing this is the multiplexer setting you folks were talking about I did a real simple test with FurMARK. It shows that the Renderer is the Intel, but the GPU temp and util for the Nvidia showed activity What can I do to further test?

Also here are some advices form Nautis on tweaking inf file:

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nautis Really seems like it is working judging by these screenshots. I emailed you a new INF to try. You also may want to make sure updatussetup.exe is run. As I said in the email the reviews use a nvidia provided test tool. (We probably won't be able to get a hold this optimus test tool without contacting a reviewer.) You can try 3dmark like Nvidia shows in their optimus comparison video. You can also try to set each "Preferred graphics processor" and test for the benchmark or game you are testing and check the performance difference. Is the light next to auto still light after removing the hybrid graphics drivers btw? The proper changes to the INF should be: Add the following lines: Code: (this one really is not needed as it is for Windows Vista) Under [NVIDIA_SetA_Devices.NTamd64.6.0] add %NVIDIA_DEV.0A2B.01% = , PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A2B&SUBSYS_905A104D (end vista code) Under [NVIDIA_SetA_Devices.NTamd64.6.1] add %NVIDIA_DEV.0A2B.01% = , PCIVEN_10DE&DEV_0A2B&SUBSYS_905A104D Under [Strings] at the bottom add NVIDIA_DEV.0A2B.01 = "NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M" The iILKM0 stuff is for the Intel drivers and is not needed in the nvidia driver INF.

We are not sure yet but seems like Optimus drivers are working on the new Z.





EDIT: Nautis opened section on LaptopVideo2Go related to Optimus on new Z and other Hybrid Graphic laptop candidates:



http://forums.laptopvideo2go.com/top..._128386__st__0



EDIT: Latest, most successful instructions so far from Nautis on optimus enabling for Z11



Download the latest Intel HD drivers: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator Driver for Windows 7* 64 and Windows Vista* 64 (zip)

Download the Notebook 257.15 drivers: NVIDIA DRIVERS 257.15 BETA

Switch the tri-selector to SPEED

Uninstall the Nvidia drivers, reboot

Install the Intel HD drivers, reboot

Extract the Nvidia notebook drivers, delete all INF files in the Display directory. Download Nautis' modified INF (rename from .TXT) and place in the Display directory

Install the drivers, reboot



Results:

Windows boot - fast, issue resolved

Context menu option - working

Automatic GPU switching - working

Graphics overlay - Demo text remains

Function key brightness - Working

Reply 1 : Sony Z11 - NVIDIA Optimus

Hi, Igorstef!



I think you've unintentionally said even more than you meant. Indeed, nVidia's Optimus is more like "theology" than it is technology, at least for Vaio Z11xxx owners. While it's quite beneficial for folks who don't already have the ability to switch graphics technology on the fly without rebooting, folks who insist on this for the new Vaio Zs surprise me. Reaching all the way across the keyboard (say 3 inches for most folks) and waiting one second are far too annoying? While nVidia's come up with a cool little DMA hack here, was manual switching really that painful for you? Zounds!



Cheers!

Mark

Reply 2 : Sony Z11 - NVIDIA Optimus

Hi, igorstef. Thanks for the detailed instroduction of the optimus driver.



But after installing the Nvidia Optimus driver,



1. Will I have to start the machine in "Auto" mode? Or what will happen?

2. Will the tri-switcher still properly work in Windows 7?

3. CURRENTLY, is the graphic card performance under Optimus driver better than or at least similar to the Sony driver?

Reply 3 : Sony Z11 - NVIDIA Optimus

Quote:

Originally Posted by MJFlash Hi, Igorstef! I think you've unintentionally said even more than you meant. Indeed, nVidia's Optimus is more like "theology" than it is technology, at least for Vaio Z11xxx owners. While it's quite beneficial for folks who don't already have the ability to switch graphics technology on the fly without rebooting, folks who insist on this for the new Vaio Zs surprise me. Reaching all the way across the keyboard (say 3 inches for most folks) and waiting one second are far too annoying? While nVidia's come up with a cool little DMA hack here, was manual switching really that painful for you? Zounds! Cheers! Mark

Sorry Mark my English isn't that good (I am relying too much on spell check ).



Anyway I actually prefer manual switch on new Z since switching GPU based on application is more gimmick that real life feature. If we ever make it work properly on new Z I will set profile to mimic Z auto switch.



But as you probably know Sony will release new hybrid drivers and therefore NVIDIA drivers usually when Microsoft release new OS . You will not be able to use new GPU drivers from NVIDIA site. This is unexceptable if you plan to play some games on Z. This is my main reason for trying to use Optimus drivers so I can avoid playing with ini files in order to make Sony hybrid drivers to work with new NVIDIA drivers.

Reply 4 : Sony Z11 - NVIDIA Optimus

Quote:

Originally Posted by kevinhk Hi, igorstef. Thanks for the detailed instroduction of the optimus driver. But after installing the Nvidia Optimus driver, 1. Will I have to start the machine in "Auto" mode? Or what will happen? 2. Will the tri-switcher still properly work in Windows 7? 3. CURRENTLY, is the graphic card performance under Optimus driver better than or at least similar to the Sony driver?

1. I am not sure, Zoinks can tell us this.

2. Nop since Optimus work without using multiplexer. That said, maybe somewhere down the road we will be able to set custom functions for hybrid switch.

3. Curently GPU performs identicly under Sony or optimus drivers but if NVIDIA do any updates on drivers for 330M you will have to wait on Sony or some other 3rd party to update hybrid drivers. With Optimus drivers you dont have that problem.



As I already said we are not sure if Optimus even work with new Z. Zoinks will need to do some more tests for us if we want to find out.

Reply 5 : Sony Z11 - NVIDIA Optimus

Hi, Igorstef!



No sweat (meaning no problem at all - that no apologies are necessary)! I was just yanking your chain (meaning that it was a fun joke with you - not against you)! Indeed, hearing your reasons, this path of exploration makes complete sense, and I completely agree with you on your conclusions. I too prefer manual graphics switching over any program telling me when I should.



With regard to English skills, trust me that whatever your native language is (Russian/Eastern European?), mine are far worse (as in almost none). You're doing great!



Best Wishes!

Mark

Reply 6 : Sony Z11 - NVIDIA Optimus

Didn't see this thread, two more posts. (I'll start feeding into this thread from here on.)

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZoinksS2k Nice, missed that. Ayup Edit: I ran FurMark in both modes. Performance looks on par with that you'd expect between the Intel and Nvidia GPU's. There were NO screen flickers when switching, looks seemless. Edit 2: 3DMark05 does the same thing. Craptastic performance when selecting the Intel, reasonable on the Nvidia. Now, if we can just get the reboot delay problem resolved....

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZoinksS2k Ok, so we have the reboot problem. Add issue 2:

Reply 7 : Sony Z11 - NVIDIA Optimus

Quote:

Originally Posted by kevinhk Hi, igorstef. Thanks for the detailed instroduction of the optimus driver. But after installing the Nvidia Optimus driver, 1. Will I have to start the machine in "Auto" mode? Or what will happen? 2. Will the tri-switcher still properly work in Windows 7? 3. CURRENTLY, is the graphic card performance under Optimus driver better than or at least similar to the Sony driver?

1. Nothing, the tri-selector isn't functional but that is kind of the point with Optimus
2. See #1
3. I haven't benchmarked much yet. All I can say is that the auto-switching seems to work.

Reply 8 : Sony Z11 - NVIDIA Optimus

Last post for a while...



The display brightness Fn keys are working.

Reply 9 : Sony Z11 - NVIDIA Optimus

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZoinksS2k Didn't see this thread, two more posts. (I'll start feeding into this thread from here on.)

Great, thanks Zoinks



Hm Interesting . Seams like Optimus drivers are ruining in demo mode on vaio Z. Maybe that is also reason why Z is straggling with rebooting.



Seams like task for Nautis . We need to find what is forcing optimus to demo mode when those drivers suppose to be production version.

WHITE DOT ISSUE: HLT5676SX Samsung Please Help!

II
was told the same thing as Mattchinn, another Samsung customer who wrote about the White Dot Issue: not on the list, but I see that
he and others have had theirs fixed free.

How did they get theirs fixed, when
even the supervisor on duty for Samsung told me he was helpless to fix
anything not on the list and that there had to be proof others of the
same model had the same problem. It is obvious others do after reading Mattchinn's forum entries. It would
not be fair for some to get fixed free and not others. The only right thing to do is to include everyone with this model number.

A parts company
person told me this problem can only happen due to a defect in the chip. I would think Samsung would want to keep their name in
good standing, and they have obviously helped others in an attempt to do so.

The dots are steadily multiplying on mine. I am just sick about this. Anything a tech can do to help would be so very much appreciated! My transaction number is: 4008127395; Model #: HLT5676SX; Serial #: AHDZ3CKP403981M

Reply 1 : WHITE DOT ISSUE: HLT5676SX Samsung Please Help!

Victoria0921,

I'm sorry to hear that you're having this issue with your TV.

I've sent this to the service center manager in the U.S. for consideration. IF they are able to assist, they will reach out using the phone number associated with the ticket number.

--HDTech

Reply 2 : WHITE DOT ISSUE: HLT5676SX Samsung Please Help!

Thank you Samsung_HD_Tech. Your help is greatly appreciated! I will let everyone know if I hear from someone.

Victoria0921

Reply 3 : WHITE DOT ISSUE: HLT5676SX Samsung Please Help!

Samsung HD Tech,

I am having the dreaded white dot problem with my unit similar to the problem described by Victoria. I too have contacted Samsung to be told "I am sorry but your unit is not on the list".

Is there something you could do on my behalf as well? The tv is only 3+ yrs old (purchased in 2007)and has sat in the same place the entire service life. It is used often but a 3 year service life for a tv is seems a bit short. Any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks

Kirk

Reply 4 : WHITE DOT ISSUE: HLT5676SX Samsung Please Help!

(and country)

Reply 5 : WHITE DOT ISSUE: HLT5676SX Samsung Please Help!

in California USA

Reply 6 : WHITE DOT ISSUE: HLT5676SX Samsung Please Help!

1800SAMSUNG if you didn't get your transaction number.

*HP EliteBook 8530p/w Owners Lounge *

When will it officially come out?

When will it start shipping?

What is going to be the starting price?



Thanks.

Reply 1 : *HP EliteBook 8530p/w Owners Lounge *

no one knows yet

Reply 2 : *HP EliteBook 8530p/w Owners Lounge *

I talked to an HP rep last week who said the week of the first it should be online for ordering.

Reply 3 : *HP EliteBook 8530p/w Owners Lounge *

MacMall has some prices up already.



http://www.google.com/products?hl=en...-8&sa=N&tab=wf



Perhaps I should cancel my T400 order for this...

Reply 4 : *HP EliteBook 8530p/w Owners Lounge *

Quote:

Originally Posted by curiouspeter MacMall has some prices up already. http://www.google.com/products?hl=en...-8&sa=N&tab=wf Perhaps I should cancel my T400 order for this...

Why so expensive? The configurations are minimal on most of the models and nearly all of the prices are $1500+!?

Reply 5 : *HP EliteBook 8530p/w Owners Lounge *

The Blu-Ray drives hike the cost up

Reply 6 : *HP EliteBook 8530p/w Owners Lounge *

Quote:

Originally Posted by blindpan The Blu-Ray drives hike the cost up

No blu-ray players on some of the models. Price is still very expensive!

Reply 7 : *HP EliteBook 8530p/w Owners Lounge *

From what I can see, the prices are in line with most other business notebooks. A similarly spec'd Dell M4400 goes for around the same (if not higher) price



However, can someone show me difference between these two configs? They look the same to me...



http://www.macmall.com/macmall/shop/...=MWBgooglebase



http://www.macmall.com/macmall/shop/...s&dpno=7546120

Reply 8 : *HP EliteBook 8530p/w Owners Lounge *

One is a "Smart Buy" and the other one is a Not-so-smart Buy? I don't know.



Keep in mind that many HP mobile workstations come with 3 year on-site warranty.



I don't know why all these models still come with 2GB RAM. 4GB should be standard for a 15.4" highish-end laptop.

Reply 9 : *HP EliteBook 8530p/w Owners Lounge *

They are available now!!



This link just came up:

http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/us/en...1-3781677.html



I just ordered mine through pcmall.com. It shows as pre-order but they called me this morning to verify payment information. They will ship it out tomorrow.



Though, I believe it fully when i see the tracking number...

Help me choose?

So, I'm a senior at school and starting college this fall. I don't know a thing about computers, but I was rec'd Samsung and the prices are good, so..Can you recommend me something, considering that:



1) I want it to be light and not too big

2) 1400x700+ screen would be good..basically, 14'' I think (?)

3) I don't play games. I occasionally may download a movie or two, but I tend to delete it after I watch. I don't need lot of memory, but I'd like it to be fast and the sound be average or above average (I heard Samsung laptops have bad sound).

4) I want it to work well and crush rarely/never.

5) Want it to last for *at least* 4 years.

6) Price is an issue. The lower - the better.

7) Design kinda matters..so if you'd provide pic's/links, I'd be happy.

8) I'm not decided on major *at all* so there's a chance that I may even thing about Comp Sciences/Engineering..and I want that not to be an issue.





Thanks)

Reply 1 : Help me choose?

I would recommend that you fill in this form and post it in the What Notebook Should I Buy forum.



You can mention in that form that Samsung has been suggested to you, but people may suggest other models that better fit your needs. For example, Dell Latitude notebooks bought from Dell Outlet can provide business durability / warranty at consumer notebook prices.



John

Sxps 1640 Bios Update A15 Released 13/04/2011

Just letting you know just updated from A11 TO A15 with no problems.

Reply 1 : Sxps 1640 Bios Update A15 Released 13/04/2011

Any improvements??

Reply 2 : Sxps 1640 Bios Update A15 Released 13/04/2011

What does this bios do exactly?



TIA

Reply 3 : Sxps 1640 Bios Update A15 Released 13/04/2011

It's listed as something to do with LoJack.

Reply 4 : Sxps 1640 Bios Update A15 Released 13/04/2011

and what exactly is LoJack?

Reply 5 : Sxps 1640 Bios Update A15 Released 13/04/2011

Laptop security software. It theoretically assists with recovery should a laptop be stolen. If the thief goes online, the laptop broadcasts a sort of "SOS" (way oversimplified, read more at the LoJack for Laptops "How It Works" website) so law enforcement can find it.

Reply 6 : Sxps 1640 Bios Update A15 Released 13/04/2011

thanks a lot for the explanation and the url

Second thoughts about Dv6tqe

I have been reading up on some consumer reviews of the HP brand in general. I know I can't compare this line because it is brand new and is a more expensive model, but these are all very valuable parts going in as some people say, "a shoddy plastic brick." I need to know if thats the case with the Dv6t, and if this laptop will last me (gaming wise) for the next few years. I've been waiting for mine to come in but I'm just worried I'm not getting a quality built laptop that I thought I ordered because quite frankly, a lot of HP laptops just are plain terrible.



Don't mean to offend anyone, just worried. Is this a good laptop that will last or something that will start having problems within a year?

Reply 1 : Second thoughts about Dv6tqe

I wouldn't feel bad, I was thinking the same thing.



Some people are very pleased with their HPs and some have issues. The common thread seems to be that you really don't want to contact their support, because it's at this point that you start to feel the difference between a high end or business laptop vs. a consumer laptop.



Consumer laptops like this (especially with a 33% coupon!) are sold with a very small margin for profit, so the support is sometimes lacking.



The Envy is a nice line, and this new model reminds me of them. Not enough reviews to really answer your questions about longevity, but with prices like these I guess you kind of roll the dice! For $850 for the hardware I got, I'll give HP another try. (Although I'm trying to convince them to send me the quick ship model instead of my custom build.) :-)

Reply 2 : Second thoughts about Dv6tqe

Quote:

Originally Posted by apav ... Is this a good laptop that will last or something that will start having problems within a year?

All laptops of the same circa and price have aproximately the same build quality. Can a model be a lemon? Sure, but no more likely HP than Gateway, Dell, ....

Printer

I have bought a dell 560 Inspiron and have a old Hp 1200 laser jet printer. I cannot figure out how to plug the printer in the back of the desktop since there is a connection. Is there an adapter that can be set up here to use this printer?

Reply 1 : Printer

http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/Document.jsp?lang=en&cc=us&taskId=115&prodSeriesId=411179&prodTypeId=18972&prodSeriesId=411179&objectID=c00224334 shows it has USB.

Did you try that?

Options for 2 monitors dv7tQE

I am just curious what my best options are on HP Pavilion dv7t Quad Edition



17inch monitor obviously for the laptop...but is it possible to run 2 monitors off it and have the laptop closed? I know the laptop itself comes with HDMI and VGA. At this time, my monitors don't support that...



I didn't see any docking stations at least on their ordering "process" that had a dock supporting both DVI and VGA...

Reply 1 : Options for 2 monitors dv7tQE

I was told by HP that any notebook that had the VGA and HDMI ports would support an external monitor on each of the ports for 2 external monitors as well as supporting the notebook screen at the same time. Now that being said I have yet to try it myself and will soon do so as I just got my notebook today and have not had time to get to it. Ill let you know how it goes.

Reply 2 : Options for 2 monitors dv7tQE

Properly implemented DVI connections also include conventional VGA signals, all you need is a $5- dongle. The OP might want to check to see if the DVI connector on the available docks properly supports VGA.



With the price of most HP docks I'd be tempted to use something like a Matrox Dual2Go multi-display adapter and drive it from the laptops VGA connector.



As for running a laptop with the cover closed, you want to be damned sure that the cooling arrangements on the machine don't depend on having the keyboard open for airflow.

Reply 3 : Options for 2 monitors dv7tQE

Well I have confirmed that my Pavilion with HDMI and VGA ports will run an external monitor on each port at the same time but this will disable the notebook screen. Or you can run one monitor and the notebook screen. Not 3 together like HP support said that I could.

Reply 4 : Options for 2 monitors dv7tQE

Matrox also makes a triple head2go adapter in both analog and digital versions.



One major upside to the Matrox external boxes is the Most Excellent multi-monitor software they give you.

Darn you, Dell! (re: E6520)

Why'd you have to add a 10-key to the E6520 and the Precision equivilent?



So much uglier than centered keyboard / trackpad.

Reply 1 : Darn you, Dell! (re: E6520)

I know -- or go to that silver brushed cover instead of sticking with black. Not impressed with the looks of the E6520 at all. The hardware/electronics inside the laptop are, undoubtely, top-notch -- but I think they really failed on the design front. Especially since the new keys are going to be smaller.



I guess the dillema for me is will they fix it in the next version -- or should I grab an E6510 while they're still relatively available?

Reply 2 : Darn you, Dell! (re: E6520)

This is gonna be different for everyone as I'm glad they put a dedicated number pad (I want one). As far as appearance it looks fine to me, I like the lid on the E6510 more though. Waiting for reviews on the E6520..

Reply 3 : Darn you, Dell! (re: E6520)

Quote:

Originally Posted by TotalLamer Why'd you have to add a 10-key to the E6520 and the Precision equivilent? So much uglier than centered keyboard / trackpad.

Agreed. Uglier and ergonomically lousy. Those who need a number pad could use a USB pad or an external keyboard in the office and the embedded pad with NumLock+Fn on the road.



And it is an odd decision on a design that otherwise moves away from being a serious business machine (HDMI instead of DP, no USB 3.0, 16:9 display). Add to that the fugly design and Optimus (which precludes using Linux) and I'll be looking elsewhere for new systems. ThinkPad T420s or upcoming Vaio SA or Z might be like nice options.

Reply 4 : Darn you, Dell! (re: E6520)

Quote:

Originally Posted by pitz I know -- or go to that silver brushed cover instead of sticking with black. Not impressed with the looks of the E6520 at all. The hardware/electronics inside the laptop are, undoubtely, top-notch -- but I think they really failed on the design front. Especially since the new keys are going to be smaller. I guess the dillema for me is will they fix it in the next version -- or should I grab an E6510 while they're still relatively available?

I dunno... I like the general design theme (except for the orange ring around the keyboard... ?) I just wish they kept the centered keyboard / trackpad look.



Also... about time they got rid of the HORRID speaker grills that plagued the first 2 gens of E-series. Seriousy... who thought that was a good idea? Constantly trapping dirt and IMPOSSIBLE to clean.

Reply 5 : Darn you, Dell! (re: E6520)

Quote:

Originally Posted by ExParrot Agreed. Uglier and ergonomically lousy. Those who need a number pad could use a USB pad or an external keyboard in the office and the embedded pad with NumLock+Fn on the road. And it is an odd decision on a design that otherwise moves away from being a serious business machine (HDMI instead of DP, no USB 3.0, 16:9 display). Add to that the fugly design and Optimus (which precludes using Linux) and I'll be looking elsewhere for new systems. ThinkPad T420s or upcoming Vaio SA or Z might be like nice options.

Don't you go dissing Optimus now.



That's the holy grail of laptops for me.



I don't want to have a separate "on-the-go" laptop and "gaming" laptop.



Optimus allows both to be the same laptop. Finally.



I'm thinking I might get a W520...

Reply 6 : Darn you, Dell! (re: E6520)

Quote:

Originally Posted by TotalLamer Don't you go dissing Optimus now. That's the holy grail of laptops for me. I don't want to have a separate "on-the-go" laptop and "gaming" laptop. Optimus allows both to be the same laptop. Finally. I'm thinking I might get a W520...

I only dis Optimus because it has been reported to be flaky and, more important to me, prevents the use of Linux unless (pay attention Dell) you provide an override to turn it off (some Vaios have a mechanical switch -- smart). If Optimus is great for you that's fine.



I like the W520 specs also. Note that ThinkPads at least have a BIOS control to disable Optimus so that makes it a potential Linux platform (for those of us who care). Not as convenient as Sony's switch, though.

Reply 7 : Darn you, Dell! (re: E6520)

Quote:

Originally Posted by ExParrot I only dis Optimus because it has been reported to be flaky and, more important to me, prevents the use of Linux unless (pay attention Dell) you provide an override to turn it off (some Vaios have a mechanical switch -- smart). If Optimus is great for you that's fine. I like the W520 specs also. Note that ThinkPads at least have a BIOS control to disable Optimus so that makes it a potential Linux platform (for those of us who care). Not as convenient as Sony's switch, though.

I can 100% confirm that Optimus can be disabled in the BIOS. The Quadro card stays on all the time.

Reply 8 : Darn you, Dell! (re: E6520)

That's only because you have a last-gen Quadro which had the option of a physical or BIOS switch.



No 4xx/4xxx card or greater from Nvidia has a switch for Optimus. Only GTX and GTX-based Quadro can have Nvidia-only mode because the IGP is disabled or not present. The only exception seems to be the 460M, but no manufacturer has implemented it with Optimus.

Reply 9 : Darn you, Dell! (re: E6520)

There is a switch in the BIOS for the Nvidia 4200M



Optimus On = Intel 3000 GPU & Nvidia 4200M

Optimus Off = Nvidia 4200M only

What other pens will work?

I've posted this question in other threads.



I'd like to use a normal size pen instead of the thin one that came with my CF-18, as I have arthritis in my hands.



I have read that any Wacom Penable pen will work, but I have tried one that came with an Intuos tablet (Grip Pen ZP-501E-00A), but it does not work.



Can I do something to make it?



Has anyone succeeded in using a pen such as this?



I am running Windows 7.

Reply 1 : What other pens will work?

I am assuming that this is a digitizer model? If so, then yes, any digitizer pen should work.



Thanks

Reply 2 : What other pens will work?

According to Wacom the "penabled" pen will work with your CF-19 unless it has a different digitizer than the CF-18. The Wacom Intuos tablet is NOT a penabled model, nor is the Bamboo. If there is any misunderstanding, the penabled model pens are listed at the Wacom eStore as . I know I have answered this question before. You will have to search for the type of pen you want, try the tablet forums, but I don't see the type you want on the Wacom eStore any more. They were there a year or so ago.

Rob, all digitizers are very much not the same, nor are the pens interchangeable between the different types.

CAP

Digits? No your digits won't work you need a pen

Edit: I'm in a really good mood so I did your homework for you. http://www.wacom-components.com/english/partner/index.html Any of the listed "Partner" products pens should work, my Motion LS800 came with a very nice full size pen which fits in it's "garage".

Reply 3 : What other pens will work?

Quote:

Originally Posted by capt.dogfish all digitizers are very much not the same, nor are the pens interchangeable between the different types.

^^^ agreed ^^^

Reply 4 : What other pens will work?

Thanks!



Just a little confused with CF-18 and CF-19 references in the Captain's post above. I have a CF-18.



At least with the model numbers I was able to go to the European Wacom site.



They list two Penable pens the UP710E and the UP712 and guess what? Both are marked as 'This product is no longer manufactured and is no longer available'!



The US site does not offer International shipping!

Reply 5 : What other pens will work?

Try here maybe. No dealings with these companies. I just Googled the part number with uk.



Insight pen





Wacom UP712 at PinnacleMicroGB.co.uk

Reply 6 : What other pens will work?

The CF-18-19 seem to have the same digitizer. In the link I posted are listed a ton of compatible units from a bunch of different manufacturers. I'll test the Motion LS800 pen on a CF-18 digitizer this evening. There seem to be a lot of Motion users in Europe(mostly for general aviation), so you should be able to get a Motion pen over there. The Model I will be checking is a UP-7110E-63A.

CAP

Reply 7 : What other pens will work?

These are an inexpensive Penabled-compatible Digitizer Pen which I've had good luck with:



New Axiotron Digitizer Pen Modbook & Tablet PC by Wacom | eBay



And the same merchant's webstore if fleaBay auction bites it:



New Axiotron Digitizer Pen Modbook & Tablet PC by Wacom



mnem

Pointy.

Reply 8 : What other pens will work?

Kewl, or as we say up my way, wicked pissah! The Motion, which seems just like the Axiotron pen, works fine with the CF-18 as well, and Motion seems to have a presence in the EU with a slew of web sites, so Martin 4x4 should be able to get what he needs if Wacom won't play nice. The Axiotron is much cheaper than the Motion pen from Motion.

CAP

Reply 9 : What other pens will work?

And while Googling the pen, I came up with this at B&H. Unfortunately, my Panasonic Plasma is only 42".

Hitachi PXDUO-50P Interactive Plasma PX-DUO50P DIGITIZER B&H

Holy CSI Batman!

And this:http://www.logipen.com/lp/logipen_lp...FcTd4AodxX3qDQ

Also pretty nice. You could go crazy Googling, you really could.

CAP

HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea opinions

Hi,



I'm considering buying the new HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea but I haven't found any reviews or people's experiences about it. Does anyone have it or played with one?



I would like to know if it heats too much (is it comfortable on your lap?) and what is the battery life in light/internet usage scenario.



Details about it:









* Intel Core i5-450M Processor 2.4 GHz, Level 3 cache 3 MB

* 13.3" 1366 x 768 diagonal High-Definition LED HP BrightView

* 4 GB DDR3 (2 x 2048 MB, max: 8GB)

* 500 GB SATA Hard Disk Drive 7200 rpm

* SATA optical drive: LightScribe SuperMulti DVDR/RW with

Double Layer Support

* ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5450 Graphics (switchable), up to

2202 MB total graphics memory with 512 MB DDR3 dedicated

* HP TrueVision Webcam with Integrated Digital Microphone

* Altec Lansing speakers

* 3 USB 2.0 ports (3rd shared with eSATA port)

* HDMI output

* Integrated 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN

* 802.11 b/g/n; Bluetooth wireless networking

* 5-in-1 integrated Digital Media Reader for Secure Digital cards,

MultiMedia cards, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro or xD Picture

cards

* Weight: 2.085 kg / 4.6lbs

* 6-cell lithium-ion battery



Product page



Thanks

Reply 1 : HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea opinions

I actually ordered this laptop yesterday so it should come early next week. if anyone can tell me what possible issues to look out for that would be great also if anyone has some questions ill be happy to answer them when I get it.

Reply 2 : HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea opinions

Hi guys how did you get on with this laptop? I'm considering it too but there isn't much info out there for it. Thanks

Reply 3 : HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea opinions

hi guys, got my laptop today so i thought id just give a few first impressions.

overall im very impressed with the build quality, look and feel. its very quick and snappy in everything ive done so far. a big plus for me is the keyboard which is very well spaced and each key has great travel and clicky feel to them. the track pad really isnt as bad as what alot of reviews said about other laptops, it just needs a little time to get use to it (not as good as a mbp trackpad but w7 is better than osx imo).

the screen is really good too and isnt as reflective as i expected and is fine at about 50% brightness.

A couple of issues i found is that use can hear the fan but its not that annoying and music easily masks this even at low volume. Two more issues i found was that the speak seems to click when i do certain things ie click on weblinks which I know its supposed too anyway but is dosnt sound normal to me; the other problem i have is that the fingerprint reader really dosnt work. I dont think its broken its just that the device manager dosnt detect it and no amount of fiddling with drivers seems to provide a fix.



in all im very happy with the laptop and i would be very happy to recommend it, ill post pictures and info if anyone is interested.

Reply 4 : HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea opinions

Good stuff. I had a look at it in Dixons and its pretty nice, compact, and the screen seems reasonable as well. Seemed pretty light but didn't have the battery in at the time. It could be a bit more solid (think my Dell Studio 15 is a bit tougher) but fine if you ask me.



Decisions decisions! let me know if you notice anything else good or bad about it

Reply 5 : HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea opinions

well i've had it a few days now and im still happy with it apart from the fingerprint scanner still not working. after spending the best part of 3 days trying to fix it, i've given up and I called Hp support and they are going to pick it up tomorrow. I would still defiantly recommend it as its very solid to the touch and looks the part on my desk.

Reply 6 : HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea opinions

do you mind putting up some pictures?



Also comment on the built in cooling system perhaps?

Reply 7 : HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea opinions

ordered mine yesterday - will arrive while I'm in Ibiza so as soon as I'm back will post comments.



750 from PC World with discount code (despite normally telling my clients NEVER buy from PC World, for the discount I thought definitely worth it!)

Reply 8 : HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea opinions

Did anyones come with a remote?

Reply 9 : HP Pavilion dv3-4050ea opinions

for those lucky owners, how about the battery life? 'cause I am thinking about buying this but the weight and the battery life are crucial for me.



In my opinion 2kg is heavy, but it worth with such a good performance, so if the battery life is up to 6h with a normal use and with the wifi on, for sure I will buy it!

Reinstalling OS problem

I've bought my new DELL VOSTRO A180. Once I've installed window but after that I tried to reinstall Win XP, 7, 98 but for each, after copying files when system reboots, it does further installs window but stops at message "Press any key to boot from CD". So what should I do now??

GOBI in a new CF-52 or CF-31 with i3/i5 CPU

Does anyone know how to activate the slot for the GOBI device?

All new CF-52 and CF-31 as well with the i3/5 CPU do not have a dip switch to activate the slot for the GOBI device.

The CF-30, 19 and CF-52 MK1/2 always have 2 or 4 dip switches to configure the slot.

Does anyone have an idea???

Reply 1 : GOBI in a new CF-52 or CF-31 with i3/i5 CPU

Does it show WWAN "enabled" in the BIOS? Did the GOBI come installed OEM or did you install it? Have you installed the CSA application from Panasonic?



Glen

Reply 2 : GOBI in a new CF-52 or CF-31 with i3/i5 CPU

The CSA application is only for the US; users of Toughbooks outside the US (or Canada possibly) do *not* need the CSA at all for any reason.



The DIP switches have disappeared as there is now only one 3G modem (that is used on Europe and in the US, the DIP switches used to configure the antenna between EVDO and UMTS modes as well as some other stuff).



And lastly, the BIOS is not configured for HSPA (Gobi) unless you have actually bought the Toughbook with HSPA. This means that if you bought the device without HSPA (and have retrofitted the Gobi device yourself), then you may not be able to enable it in the BIOS unless someone can prise a BIOS patch out of Panasonic or knows of some way around it.

Reply 3 : GOBI in a new CF-52 or CF-31 with i3/i5 CPU

Quote:

Originally Posted by r-d-e Does anyone know how to activate the slot for the GOBI device? All new CF-52 and CF-31 as well with the i3/5 CPU do not have a dip switch to activate the slot for the GOBI device. The CF-30, 19 and CF-52 MK1/2 always have 2 or 4 dip switches to configure the slot. Does anyone have an idea???

The CF-52 MK 3 and the CF-31's use a Gobi 2000 modem. To activate the slot for the Gobi device, you have to enable it in the BIOS. The bad thing is that it's a written program (I don't know the name of) that is "programed" into the BIOS.



Toughbooks that use the Gobi 1000 modem, dipswitch settings enable the slot. You probably already knew that though.

Reply 4 : GOBI in a new CF-52 or CF-31 with i3/i5 CPU

Resellers can do it, so obviously it can be done.

Reply 5 : GOBI in a new CF-52 or CF-31 with i3/i5 CPU

Quote:

Originally Posted by old busted Resellers can do it, so obviously it can be done.

You're right it can be done. In my previous post I said it could be done.

Reply 6 : GOBI in a new CF-52 or CF-31 with i3/i5 CPU

Quote:

Originally Posted by Comptronic To activate the slot for the Gobi device, you have to enable it in the BIOS. The bad thing is that it's a written program (I don't know the name of) that is "programed" into the BIOS.

Before the WWAN:Enable/Disable option appears in the BIOS (assuming a WWAN card is present), there is a flag in the BIOS for the WWAN that is invisible.



If the flag is set to disable, then the WWAN:Enable/Disable option will not appear, regardless of whether the WWAN card is there or not.



If the flag is set to enable, then the WWAN:Enable/Disable option will be present if the WWAN card is also present.



In Europe, the flag is set to disable by default for other reasons: if you order a 3G Toughbook unit, then the flag is set to enable. I'd presume the same is similar in the US, but obviously I'm not entirely sure.

Reply 7 : GOBI in a new CF-52 or CF-31 with i3/i5 CPU

So the million dollar question is: How do you set the flag to enable?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pinecone In Europe, the flag is set to disable by default for other reasons

What are these "other reasons"?



Glen

Reply 8 : GOBI in a new CF-52 or CF-31 with i3/i5 CPU

My assumption would be antenna-related, not really sure.



As for flipping the flag, I think you can do it with the BIOS update exe (BU52m3.exe or whatever) but I'm not sure on the syntax and Panasonic are horrific at documenting the switches by /?

Reply 9 : GOBI in a new CF-52 or CF-31 with i3/i5 CPU

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pinecone My assumption would be antenna-related, not really sure. As for flipping the flag, I think you can do it with the BIOS update exe (BU52m3.exe or whatever) but I'm not sure on the syntax and Panasonic are horrific at documenting the switches by /?

I wouldn't say they're horrific. I do agree that they do make some mistakes on their documentation and procedures.