Precision M4400 Owner's Lounge

I would be curious to know if that dvd burning problem would still exist if you tried Bios A06 or A03.

I have had burning issues with A11 and A09 but for me A06 burned correctly.

 

I've only burnt some linux iso's and didn't have any problems...unusual problem actually...

 

Well, what do you know - I flashed A06 and burnt my first non-coaster DVD! Thanks! So I guess I can add weight to your logic about burning problems being related to BIOS. What's up with Dell breaking stuff in BIOS upgrades?

To summarize everything, it looks like the magic sauce recipe for me was:

• Install as per Dell instructions
• Don't forget Matrix Storage Controller - even though the Dell software implies it's not 'detected' on your computer and you don't have a RAID setup, YOU STILL NEED THIS!
• Uninstall the audio driver and let Vista find it's own driver
• Install A06 BIOS
• Pop out the DVD drive when not in use for optimal performance. (I'm still not very happy about this, but truth is, I tend to do it anyway because it helps keep the laptop lighter and cooler).

Thanks a million to everyone here - I can confidently say there's no way I would have figured this out without this thread / forum and all the cool folks here.

Cheers!

 

Heh - actually linux ISOs is what I burn too - (kubuntu, in my case) - I like it because it does an integrity check before invoking the installer so you get a pretty good idea if the DVD is ok just by doing that.

 

I am glad you were able to get your system functioning properly.
Hopefully future Bios' and drivers will address these issues but I am not going to hold my breath

 

I'm considering buying the M4400 for personal use. I can get a good deal in the Dell Outlet, and it seems to be the highest quality and best bang for my buck. I read some of the reviews about the DVD RW issues and some screen issues being grainy. Are these problems resolved or would they still be present? Also, would the 0.3 MP integrated webcam be worth it given the low pixels or would it be better to buy a higher end webcam separately (for video communication with family)?

Lastly, does anyone have any commentary on the latitude vs. the precision in terms of the quality of build and any persistent issues?

Thanks!

 

the precisions and non E5x00 latitudes are the same chassis, so build quality is pretty much identical, and very very high quality. this think feels really solid. pressing the screen release latch feels like turning the key in a padlock (and sounds the same too!!)

the issues on the precision seem to be largely software issues, it can be a hassle.

 

Just got my M4400 today! a bit lazy to go in and do the reinstall for everything.. but so far so good.

very little bloat (actually none at all) only Roxio.
virtually brand new.. the only thing I noticed was a very small and fine scratch at the edge of the palm rest.. but other wise indistinguishable from a new model. got that new smell too!
screen is great
nothing looks out of place

as I spend more time on it I'll comment on it.

one question: I have one with XP pro and a vista license i think. How do I get it to install Vista? anything else you guys reccomend on this model?

I'm draining the battery right now.
will probably partition the drive and install deep freeze on one. thinking about using object dock.

can't wait for it to become dark so I can turn on the backlit keyboard

 

It should have come with an OS reinstall disc (or two, in your case).

No need to wait, it looks nice even in fully lit rooms

 

indeed you are right! didn't notice it in the box! lol.

man can't decide between sticking to XP or Vista lol. either way its something to tide me down until windows 7.

I gotta say.. the screen on this beats the one on my Vaio SZ by a mile.. its much brighter.. and that was before I figured out it wasn't even on max brightness!

after a few years of using glossy screen.. I'm actually quite happy to return to matte