New XPS 15z

On what? The graphics RAM chips? I think the GPU and CPU already have factory paste.

 

Usually, applying thermal paste refers to the GPU and CPU. I find, as well as many others, that the stock thermal pads that Dell applies at the factory doesn't do as well a job as aftermarket Arctic Silver for instance. And if anyone has yet to attempt it. Users of the XPS 15 have already done it, why shouldn't we..

I rarely, if ever, use the ODD. I find that in this current technological trend, they should be obsolete, and stopped being used in laptops under 17". There's no reason why we shouldn't have the option for a hardware raid configuration on 15" laptops, in place of an ODD.

 

Hey guys, thought I'd write a quick update.

Went ahead and bought a new SSD (Kingston HyperX 120GB SATAIII/6Gbps) and performed the entire disassembly -> replace ODD procedure.

I'm now running the Windows 8 Developer Preview solely (no Win7 anymore!) and this thing zips along like a beast

Small issue - the onboard Realtek HDA ALC1200 is causing a fair amount of "crackling" when I listen to music online or offline. It doesn't happen all the time, but it's definitely noticeable (and annoying) when it does occur.

I'm fully updated to the newest driver spec. Just wondering if anyone had any thoughts on the matter.

Let me know if anyone has any questions regarding installing the SSD/removing the ODD/Win8.

 

^^ Check issue list

 

Sorry, I misunderstood your use of the term "thermal pads". Typically, paste is the goopy stuff, and thermal pads are the rubber-like thermal material typically placed between the heatsink and the GPU RAM chips and chipset chips on some system boards.

You can by small sheets of thermal pad material and replace the stock thermal pads (which, btw, Dell had haphazardly put on my GPU RAM...most were off center or not squared on the chips) for improved heat transfer and to keep your video ram running cooler.

I would most definitely upgrade the paste on your GPU and CPU from the junk that Dell uses.

 

The problem is that thermal pads take up more space than thermal paste. So the problem might occur, where the CPU/GPU die doesn't make contact with the heat sink assembly. Ergo the issue of applying paste versus the pads

I would like to know if someone with more knowledge than myself can give some input.

 

Did anyone install the update for dell renesas usb 3.0 driver? (2/16/12)

After the install, I get Windows PCA message 'this program might not have installed correctly'.. and all that jazz
I've no idea if it needs to be Reinstalled!!

 

I'm still confused about what you're really asking (sorry!). You started by asking "Has anyone tried applying thermal paste, versus the pads?" . You seem to have a clear understanding of paste vs. pads, and as far as I know, the only pads are on the graphics RAM, which I asked if that was what you meant.

You also seem to already know that paste and pads are not compatible. The pads are much thicker than paste and if you use paste where there are pads, there will not be good contact between the heatsink and the paste.

So, sorry, but I'm not sure what information you are asking for...

 

Just joined NR to contribute to this thread ...

My 15z kept on overheating on CSS (GPU was close to 95 degrees celcius) until I took off the thermal pads, cleaned it and put artic silver on both the CPU and GPU.

It has made a huge difference, my GPU has yet to exceed 60 degrees.

So go ahead and do it!

 

My apologies for the confusion. In some cases, where there's too much space, some have gone and modified the heatsink with a coppper sheet to make up for lost space. Just FYI.

Welcome to the forum, and thanks for the contribution! Very helpful info.

 

Do you have any before and after screenshots of temps?

 

Has anyone had any issues with the HDMI port? I can't get mine to work at all.

 

I just used mine, for the first time, last night when I hooked up my 15z to watch a missed opening episode of Survivor we missed. It worked fine.

I do have a question, though. How do I know, when watching streaming video, or anything, if I'm using the nVidia graphics or Intel? Is there a way to force the nVidia chip to be used?

I must say that my laptop fan was on high the whole time, and the video quality streaming from CBS.com was very low. CBS does not allow the watcher to choose what definition they want, it's "automagically" determined. It sucked.

Anyways, what triggers the switch from Intel video to nVidia and how do I know?

 

Just go o the Nvidia control panel then "Manage 3D settings" were you can see "preferred graphics processor" option menu, you can select three option over there "Auto" means nividia controls switching between intel and nvidia GPU's. In "High Performance Nvidia Processor" to use Nvidia GPU only and by selecting "Integrated Graphics " you can use Intel GPU.

 

Thank you. This setting is for regular video also, not just 3D? Why would they put it under 3D settings?

 

You welcome. Don't know mate .

 

I have a problem when connecting the laptop to HDTV via HDMI.

ImageShack® - Online Photo and Video Hosting

I've connected my laptop to 3 different HDTV, and this problem still persists. All 3 TVs are 32", and capable of showing Full HD.

Is there a reason why my laptop can't output 1080p to the TV properly? I have to resize the screen resolution on the NVIDIA settings.

 

what you trying say here is a part of picture is cut from the bottom.

 

New seagate firmware is released please download it from dell driver & download, if you want.

 

Just an FYI, I did the firmware update already. However, be prepared to repair your MBR as this will most likely overwrite it.

As it happened to myself this weekend. It's a simple fix, just wanted to let you guys know.

 

Hello everybody! I have a question: should i replace dvd-rom with ssd or hdd(trying to make hdd/ssd system)?
Kind regards,
upd. is it possible to use internal dvd-rom as an external one?

 

Yes you can use SSD or HDD in the place DVD-ROM but dell void your warranty. So don't.

 

Thanks, I bought it on ebay, while living outside of US. So warranty is not my case Because i have none. So question is still actual .
So far i have read from this thread that 15z have a sata III port? Am i right?

 

Dell carry international warranty. Yes you are right because its have HM 67 chipset.

 

I just got my 15z, LOVE it. But its ubber high temps on the cpu 92C under load and 73C idle. GPU is idle at 50C. 70C load.

i7-2640M + Nvidia 525m Optimus

 

My guess is the heatsink needs cleaning and repasting. My i7 idles in the low-mid 40C's...

That is WAY TOO HOT!! Could be the heatsink isn't screwed down tightly, too.

Are you familiar with reapplying CPU paste??

 

Thank You!
i'm familiar with everything even removing and re-soldering full motherboards. I am waiting until tomorrow before I remove the heat sink because I need more thermal paste.
If that dont do it i will have dell replace the motherboard!

 

If the fan runs, then it almost has to be a bad paste or screw down job.
When you have it apart, and the heatsink removed, check the radiator fins to make sure they didn't leave the plastic on them during assy. That would cause overheating, also.

The fan does run, doesn't it?

 

Yes the fan was constantly running, since I cant use it any way until I get it fixed I took it apart. When I got the heat sink screws out the heat sink basically fell off. It wasn't sealed as if someone had pulled it apart didn't clean or reapply thermal paste. and just put it back together. Now I wait till I get my AS5 from my brother.

Off hand note: refurbished computers are used, with usually no signs.

 

If it's from the Outlet, then I would guess that the previous owner is the one to blame. Dell probably got it back and just reloaded it with a new Windows 7 image and put it up for sale. I've gotten quite a few Outlet 15z's and with some, it was obvious the previous owner had literally taken the laptop apart and put it back together (incorrectly) and Dell just sent it out the door.

Their QC at the Outlet leaves something to be desired sometimes.

Clean the copper plates with cleaner and reapply the AS5. What about the RAM chip thermal pads (the thin "rubber" pads)? are they in good shape and properly positioned on the chips? You can buy sheets of the material and cut new ones. Like AS5, you can buy better thermal pad material than what Dell uses.

 

You are right, reload it and shipped to me. there were dirty fingerprints on the lid. saying dell didn't bother to clean it. this is one of many i have got from the outlet. all the others were like new.

They use to be better at that!

one of the pads is ripped in half, but still there. I have all the stuff thermal cleaner stuff, AS5, and thermal pads.

(I worked as Dell XPS tech support in 2007-08. it was a fun ride)

 

UPDATE!!
I put on AS5 put it all back together. BUT it still runs HOT AS H*ll
So i called dell and they SAID they would replace the motherboard, but sent a tech with an lcd and heatsink :s

 

I can't imagine what the motherboard would fix unless the the sensor chip was off or something. I think the CPU temps come from the CPU itself, and if the heatsink is in contact with the CPU, it will cool it, so that is very odd.

Let us know how it goes...

 

Curious, what temps we talking about over here? I put some MX-4 on my CPU/GPU and temps are nice and cool.

Can you post a screenshot?

Thanks.

 

I checked some external temps with a handheld thermometer wile i had a game running.
all temps in Celsius
Left Speaker 41.4
Right speaker 34.2
Touch pad 36.6
Rear vent 52.8
Bottom center of vent 44.2

Cpu in Core Temp 91

 

If I were you (and I know it's a bit of trouble), I would remove the heatsink again and look at the imprint the CPU makes in your AS5.

If you lift it straight up, carefully, without pushing down, you should be able to see the copper part of the heatsink with a nice impression of your CPU top, and vice versa, your CPU top should show even contact with the heatsink.

I still think your not making good contact (for whatever reason).

 

Okay, I did as you suggested took it apart cleaned it reapplied AS5 sat it carefully as I would to use it, then i gently unscrewed and removed the heatsink both the CPU and GPU seat perfectly. I am still running high temps :s

 

Hey guys, I've had this computer for about 7 months now, and I've posted a couple reviews very early in this thread.

While there were many defects I've encountered with this machine when I first got it, a lot of them have been fixed, but the more annoying ones haven't. It's best to always update your computer as it fixes a lot of things.

Before you buy this laptop I highly suggest you consider the following cons:

HEAT ISSUES: Under load (max cpu) = 95C and sometimes the system turns off if i put it on my bed (ventilation/design problem)
IDLE temps are very good for this computer they hover around 40C and moderate use is about 50-60C (depending on CPU usage). Only problem is the 95C under load.

GPU is usually very cool doesn't exceed 75C under full load.

Audio is ty. If you're buying this laptop to listen to music. Don't. It's terrible. I suggest an HP with beats or an XPS 15/17 with the JBL (which is better than beats) as my room mate has it and it's much better with his little sub woofer.

But if it's for casual music, then i guess this laptop would suffice.

Screen quality: very ty. There's nothing wrong with the screen itself when you look at it, but compared to other laptops, its black levels are so SO high and viewing angles are crap. (I have NON HD screen btw, and HD screen for this laptop has it's own problems as other owners have been complaining). As you get used to this laptop, you'll be annoyed with the screen. It doesn't get very bright either.

Build Quality: the plastic metal frame that encircles the laptop (all around it) can easily break and it's broken before because I put this computer in a COMPUTER BACKPACK (HP backpack with compartment especially made for computers). I got a replacement, and now I bought a sleeve for about $30. Other than the plastic on the side (which annoys me so much) the rest of the computer is nicely built. Certainly better than any HP or Sony I've had.

Now for the pros compared to other laptops in this category.
Gaming Performance: Excellent! minus the heat issues!
I can play BF3 on low shadows and rest in medium with avg about 30 fps and crysis in High with 35-40 fps. (gotta have the latest drivers which will help boost ur fps) (native res btw)
I must say for a portable system like this I'm impressed by it's gaming performance.

Speed: very fast, doesn't lag etc etc just like any other computer now. Even with an i5 2410m.

BATTERY LIFE: I can squeeze about 7 hours of battery life by surfing the web with 40% brightness. One trick to that is make a power profile based on balanced and set CPU MAX to 70% instead of 100% also reduces the heat with no visible decrease in performance and increase in battery (I change back to high performance when gaming..). I don't know about CNEt's test saying they got 4 hours. Idk what the hell they were doing. I get 7 hours. I got this in practice. I take this out every day. I'm a college student and I take it around the whole day without charging. I definitely get 7 hours of taking notes and surfing web in there.

I got this laptop because it's good for gaming and it's battery is excellent. If you need GOOD battery life for school and wanna be able to play all modern games (ofc not in ultra or anything) this laptop is perfect. This laptop isn't very heavy either. It feels A LOT lighter than my friend's 15 inch MBP.


I have a couple questions for you guys that already own this laptop...
Do you guys know how to turn off hyper threading? Dell support told me that the bios doesn't support it. Any way i can turn it off? I don't think i need 2 extra virtual cores.

And also, should I ask for a replacement or something? The heat issues when gaming is really annoying as i can't even pickup the laptop to move it (on the bottom and top left side) after gaming. 95C is burning hot. and sometimes it turns off, which is annoying as I can't play games on my bed... Are you guys hitting 95 too?


Also, what is the hard drive your dell came with? Seagate or WD?

 

I order my refurb 15z from the outlet today. It is 2.30 ghz, with 1080p for $680 with tax. I open a xxx cc with $200 points, so I will get it for $480. I am happy.

 

I order a 120 gb ssd just so I will put it in when it comes.

I read that opening the bottom of 15z is wish you good luck. I know do you not use any screw driver to pry it open.

Anyone got good tip?

 

Heat is something with this computer but after dell replaced my motherboard my cpu stays under 87C

If you have the dell display pack installed then the screen will get super bright and way better colors and blacks.

The aluminum build is not meant to be durable but light and thin

With the correct sound drivers sound quality is very good. (Nothing like the XPS17) but super clear and loud.

I get 7hrs out of mine when not gaming

 

Congratulations on the good deal, but a note for buying from the outlet expect to get it fixed at least once.

To open it i have noticed that on any of the vids i have seen they say to take off the bezel on the left side first. it is easier to do that AFTER you first remove all the bottom screws. then take the bezel and other 2 screws off. to un-clip the bottom i do it with my fingers NO TOOLS. i have it bottom up and some of it is loose kinda pull it up on the back corners EVENLY the corner with the CD drive needs a bit of force, but just a little. then with the back of the bottom cover up a little, about a inch push the cover slightly to the front and lift, should un-clip all the front clips easily.

(I had to show the dell tech that came to replace my motherboard how to take my computer apart!)

 

True story! That is why i've done hdd replacement by myself.
PS. It was 500gb 7200 Seagate momentus, which was dying from 1st day and now it is done, so replaced with WD Scorpio black 750GB. Previous temp was 41C and now it is 34C on idle. Minimum is 25C on startup. But WD is much louder.

 

I hope I do a good job taking the base cover apart. Just pry it slightly open right? I am going to use my fingernail.

What is this silver lining thing? Just for look only?

 

Where can i download this dell display pack? Or do you mean 1080p screen?
I'll call dell and tell them. Hopefully It's just the current motherboard and not the design of the laptop. I don't wanna be stuck with this heat.

 

What are your idle temps now that you've had the motherboard replaced?
What are you doing when are you seeing 87C temps? Gaming?

Lastly..."dell display pack"? What is that?

 

The first couple of times opening it (and even worse, putting it back together) is a bit scary.

I use a plastic opening tool to help separate the bottom cover from the chassis. I use one of these, specifically, the top one. These will not mar the laptop at all.

One thing no one has mentioned is putting it back together. With the 15z upside down, I put the cover back on, FRONT FIRST, making sure I get the plastic clips lined up as good as possible, then lay down the bottom cover and ensure it lays down naturally, without too much force. I go around the perimeter and push together the cover and chassis making sure the clips click in place.

In the front, that sometimes takes extra pressure to get the cover to seal correctly. Just take your time and make sure everything is even and sealed.

Once you do this the first time, you'll probably never want to do it again!

 

FWIW, I just ran 15 minutes of PRIME 95, running the all cores of my i7 at 100%, and my max temps only reached 70C.

I wonder why yours is much higher?

 

The new update just pop up for screen. I don't how to instal l just run setup nothing happen after extracting and found two file on extracting folder.
Drivers and Downloads | Dell [Dell U2412M MONITOR ]

 

Your SSD is cooler also did you replace the cpu paste?
I called dell today and they are sending a mobo and heatsink replacement. I'll post what the temps are once I get that replaced.