XPS 18: 18" <5lbs tablet

So you did the upgrades that will make the I5 ram worthless, and already have an SSD. I fail to see any advantage of the I5 over the I3 that justify a cost increase. With HD4000 graphics, there is nothing to make you CPU bound graphically, and if your planning on using this oversized tablet as some type of workstation, no amount of upgrades is going to make it perform for tasks it was not designed.

I have a 4.7ghz overclocked ivy bridge dual video card desktop for "real" work and gaming. The tablets are for the wife for email/web and an occasional video.

 

If I may interject, he paid $969+tax for his i3 (at BB) and his i5 is only $845 total. The i5 has Turbo Boost to 2.7Ghz, the i3--nothing. It's a cost DECREASE, not an increase.
So, to me, it seems a win-win to upgrade to the i5 for less money, regardless of RAM.

 

Any word yet on when the XPS 18 will be available with Haswell so I can buy one?

 

Thanks lancorp.

Not sure what the rant was about. How does adding ram (which CPUZ shows I'm running dual channel) make the i5 worthless???? I had a 8GB stick laying around as well as an SSD so there was no added cost.

And as you noted, I go from paying 999 (i bought before BB sale) + another 60 tax for an i3 to paying 845 w/ tax for an i5 (with the powered stand and mSATA SSD. Hell, I'd have done it for a straight i3 to i3.

Oh and BigTymer, if I ever want to do "real" work , I use my i7 desktop w/ 16GB, 256GB SSD in Raid0 linked to a 16TB WHS server. Some of just like a big tablet. I'll be watching BD movies while you're doing "real" work and gaming. Some of us just operate that way.

Option 1 - i3 with no stand or mSATA card = $1,060

Option 2 - i5 with stand and mSATA card = $845

hmmmmm

Either way, I'm gonna stick to my choice, hope you do the same.

 

I'm guessing with Dell's clear out and BB's price dropping on the current crop, should be soon. There was talk of late July but that was just speculation.

 

Wait, what????

 

I guess I missed the part where you said you paid $1060 for your I5?! If its a free or even +money upgrade I see it as a great deal. The ram comment was pertaining to the fact you will just take the 4GB extra you get in your I5 and tossing it in the parts bin.

Again, if you saved money, I would have jumped too.

As far as my original comment, it was based on what I would expect to get an I5 for on the outlet. The way the pricing is, it was a very poor upgrade from an $839 original outlet priced I3. I now have two I3's. Just because to me they seem like the best value. If paying extra for an I5 to surf the web and watch movies makes sense to you, more power to you.

Also, FYI, there is no stand from the Outlet I5's or I7's.

 

sigh.......

i bought an i3 from BB (only one they sell) for $999 +6% tax.

re: the stand, even if I didn't get one I'd have still taken the deal. Although:

07/23/2013 10:25:51AM tony: "any additional discounts? I'm actually looking for 2 if possible. also, do they come with the powered stand?"
07/23/2013 10:26:11AM tony: "i've got one in my cart with a 30% discount at the moment."
07/23/2013 10:26:14AM Agent (Manuel_Vasquez): "yes they do"
07/23/2013 10:27:03AM Agent (Manuel_Vasquez): "yes, we can apply a 30% off"

re: the memory, I sold off my previous laptop and took the memory out that I added. I'm assuming you're saying there will be a 4GB stick in the SODIMM slot, so yes, I'll repurpose that stick and stick in the one I've already got: 12GB total

And even you noted that getting the i7 meant swapping out the killer NIC if I want to use WiDi so I'm really at a loss. In fact, I'm trying to understand why you feel I need to justify the setup I intend to use just to " surf the web and watch movies." Geez, get over yourself. I just post processed a couple hundred 25MB CR2 files in Photoshop so you may want to rethink trying to assume what I use the tablet for.

Let's just agree to disagree.

 

With regards to the inclusion of the stand, word is they DO NOT come with Outlet units unless specifically stated. But, I looked at my i7 order and it shows:

57NC6 Module,Shipping Material,All In One,Extreme Performance System,CORSE,Stand

Now, is that the powered stand? Who knows.
If you buy a new XPS 18 that is advertised as WITH a powered stand, the order shows:

UPC Label: Box Label, FGA005, UPC600 with Stand (and)
Shipping Material and Accessories: Shipping Material and Powered Stand

So I can't say for sure what item listed on my packing list compares to on a new order.

Of course, it would be nice for one to be included, but Outlet items almost always come with practically nothing.

Also an Update: no delivery today. Estimated date has been changed from today to tomorrow.

 

yeah, it's listed for 100 bucks in the Dell store. I don't think I'll be getting one though, as I mainly use mine portable. I may push Dell since I've got a chat that says I would get one, but like I said, for the price I got it's not that big of a deal.

 

Best case is if you pressed Dell, they'd allow you to return it for a refund. Worst case is you'd waste an hour of your life for nothing.

 

OK, my XPS 18's arrived today. Regarding the stand -- not included. Just the tablet and AC adapter.

Second, after I did some initial startup of the system, I shut down and removed the HDD and mSATA card. I cloned the HDD to a Crucial 256GB mSATA, but I cannot figure out how to configure the UEFI to boot from it.
I'm not that familiar with UEFI, but it seems it doesn't work with devices, per se, and somehow I have to ADD the device in?
Not sure...the only boot device listed is Windows Boot Manager. If I add a device (browse files) it lists all the partitions on the mSATA, and all the files, but I don't know what to do.

HELP!!

Thanks.

 

the msata is probably still running in intel's smart cache only mode... in the bios there is an option to change it. look for the storage options, i forget the exact wording but change it back to AHCI... you prob will have to restore windows from scratch. usually that change cannot be made without an OS reinstall. when it is disabled it works as regular storage...

 

No, I made sure I disable the intel rapid start stuff and set the SATA mode to AHCI. I even rebooted and went back in and checked the boot items...still just Windows Boot Manager.
So, I cloned the HDD, again, but this time to a standard Samsung 840 SSD, took out the mSATA card and blank HDD I had in the XPS 18, and put the Samsung 840 in. It boots up fine this way, so I'm sure I have the bios set.

I just can't figure out how to choose the mSATA card as the boot device.

One thing I already DON'T like about this tablet is the power button on the side. It turns on with very little pressure. I think while I had the back off and was working on it, it came on just as I was trying to manipulate the tablet!

I'm also trying to be forgiving of Windows 8, but it's REAL hard.

So, for now, i'm just running a 500GB Samsung 840. Ultimately, I'd like to have a 256GB Crucial mSATA and a 1TB data drive with XMBC and a bunch of BR rips.
It seemed like a standard 9.5mm drive fits, in place of the 7mm 500GB drive. Anyone think otherwise?

Thanks.

 

So no keyboard/mouse? My "list of parts" shows a keyboard/mouse, so hopefully that means I'll get one. And I'll watch for a deal on the stand...

Also, for everyone, people have mentioned mods (like hdd, ssd, memory) several times. Does upgrading those void your warranty?

And lastly, one guy mentioned that Dell sent him a Win 8 Pro DVD. Is this something that others have been able to do, and if so, do I just call the outlet guys and ask?

 

Sorry, yes, there was the wireless desktop box in there. Unfortunately, it's NOT the keyboard that the pictures show (KM714). It's the bigger, uglier all black and plastic KM632. Worse yet, the nano-reciever that is supposed to be "built-in" to the XPS 18 will have to be removed (if it's removable) and the receiver in the KB/Mouse box installed internally if you don't want to burn one of your USB ports. This is unacceptable. It should be the more svelte and sexy KM714. I'm calling Dell in the morning and demanding KM714's.

That's par for the course for the Dell Outlet. Nothing original is ever included, and what's supposed to be, Dell substitutes crap for it. XPS should come with the XPS keyboard. I'll at least get them to credit me back the cost of a KM714, then I'll just go buy it myself.

TOP IMAGE = UGLY KM632
BOTTOM IMAGE = Sleeker KM714

 

Mine is due to be delivered Friday.

I remember having an issue with the Lenovo Twist. (Replaced msata 32GB with 256GB booting msata and used the 500gb for data). If I recall, i think the solution was REMOVING the HARD DRIVE from the system and booting from the msata AND (I think) reformatting the hard drive BEFORE placing it back into the device.

I hope I am correct and not posting wrong info, but I figured it might help you. I'll let you know Friday/Saturday how I get mine to work.

 

I can try completely removing the hard drive, but I did do a DISKPART/CLEAN on the HDD before I put it in. That pretty much makes the drive look brand new.
My problem is I don't understand how UEFI works, and am used to choosing devices to boot from, but the BIOS in the XPS 18 doesn't seem like it works with "devices".
Maybe time to research.

 

@lancorp

question for you.. is there a benefit with going msata + large HDD versus an SSD + large HDD? If I'm not mistaken the 2nd bay will hold another small form factor HDD so my plan is to boot from a 256GB SSD and use other HDD for data.

regarding the kb/mouse, I'll have to check what came with the new i3 but I don't like the mouse. Found the receiver plugged into a USB slot under the cover so I may replace, looks easy enough.

you're spot on about the power button. PITA. Good thing is, you can use the device upside down, but I agree it's way too sensitive. I went in and changed the option to do nothing when I press, but that means I have to shutdown/sleep/restart using Windows, instead of just pressing power.

@croq, I was told by an online agent that replacing the HDD would void the warranty when I asked if the mem and hdd could be replaced. I'm not sure they could get away with that if you pushed the issue though.

 

2nd bay??? I don't think there is a 2nd bay anywhere (at least I didn't see one). As far as I can tell, mSATA slot and one HDD bay are your options.

I wonder who's idea it was to put the power button on the side, anyways? Right where you might hold the tablet!! Bottom edge, on the right would be better so that even if you hold it portrait, it'd be at the very top and no one holds it at the very top.
But hey, I'm no high-priced, college-degreed engineer working for Microsoft. What do I know?

Regarding warranty, unless you cause damage that requires repair due to HDD installation (break cables or something that can be traced to the removal/replacement of HDD) then Dell cannot void your warranty. The HDD and MEM are replaceable parts.

 

re: the 2nd bay..

sorry, I was thinking about the HP touchsmart I tried before going with the Dell.

 

Regarding the KM714, I got the same keyboard you did, the KM632. I may do the same thing with them. As far as connecting it goes, if you decide to keep the KM632, I don't see any reason you couldn't just run the Unifying Receiver program to detect the KM632 keyboard and mouse. That way, you wouldn't need to replace any receivers or use up a USB port.

 

Just to update, I did chat/call and they did wind up approving the replacement of both (I bought two) KM632's for KM714's. Shipping out overnight, so maybe I'll have them tomorrow.
With regards to the nano receiver, it's not that I can't open the back and pop out the receiver and put in the new one, it's just that it should already be done at the factory.
Also, i'm not sure the KM632 is a unifying receiver. The Dell product page for the KM632 does not show the logo for it, yet the KM714 does. So, with the unifying receiver, I can program in more devices than just the KB and mouse to work off the one receiver?
I need to find that software!

When I spoke with Dell I made it clear the pictures on the website show a different, SMALLER keyboard and mouse, with silver trim and that the KM632 is much larger and won't fit in the bag with the XPS 18. I tried to get the point across that the KM632 is not a good option because of the size.

Good luck.

 

I just checked and the i3 i got at bb came with the KM714. I like the kb but hate the mouse. My i5 is on it's way so i'm curious what combo I get.

regarding the bag you mentioned, is it the Dell sleeve? I went with a case from Poetic and it's perfect except for one flaw. There's no access to the SD card slot. I didn't think the sleeve would hold the k/b. As for the mouse, i'm hoping a slim mouse option will fit. I think MS has one.

Poetic Slimbook case

 

Just ordered this case.... THANKS! (just what I was looking for)

 

Yes, the sleeve by Mobile Edge that Dell sells. I know it doesn't have a place to put the KB/Mouse, but the Dell rep doesn't know that. Plus, I actually am looking for a topload, nylon case that will hold an 18". I'm sure they exist, I just haven't researched it yet. that way I can put a kb and mouse and charger, etc., in the bag.
The slimmest mouse, I think, is the Apple Magic mouse. It's bluetooth, so it does work.

Stands...I'm confused about them. The power stand that Dell sells at Dell.com says "Dell XPS 18 Stand with Adapter". What adapter? It doesn't state in the description that a power adapter is included. I went to a local BB, and they had the stand in stock. I had a $20 rewards credit, so I bought it. No AC adapter, just the stand.
So, these power stands don't come with the power adapter?

 

Dell.com has the power cable INCLUDED in the photo and the title say "Dell XPS 18 Stand with Adapter" as you pointed out. Guess another fight with DELL for people to get what is implied by DELL.

I also just used SNIPPING TOOL to capture the ENTIRE page from the XPS 18 outlet website. Someone might need it to fight with DELL to get the keyboard/mouse that is shown (again IMPLIED) as included with the outlet purchases.

 

Contacted support through chat - he is shipping out a KM714 package for me.

For what it's worth, when I tried to run the Unifying Software program, it did not detect one connected to my computer, so that makes me think that there may not be anything plugged in there. I wonder if I could just open it up and plug in the connector that was included in the KM632 box?

 

Yes you can. There is an actual USB port inside, just above the HDD. Mine had a dell nano receiver already in it from the previous owner. I unplugged it and put in my own until my km714 shows up.

the KM714 product page does say its unifying compatible so it should work.

 

I found what appears to be a good backpack option, but man, it's expensive!

Everki EKP120 Titan Laptop Backpack

 

Anyone know how to turn off the "automatic" screen brightness? It keeps dimming and brightening the display and it's annoying.

Overall, I'm not sold on the Windows 8 Platform. I've tried, but "Metro" is boring after about 10 minutes of using it. The "app store" doesn't have anything worthwhile, is difficult to navigate, and of those apps that I might use, they have lousy reviews.
Apart from the initial store screen, the app categories themselves just present me a screenful of jumbled up colored rectangles that is confusing and overwhelming. Android and Apple stores present apps with detail, content, and makes it easy to find what you're looking for.

I thought I might use this as a replacement for a laptop, but I find myself going back to the "desktop" to do most tasks as doing it the Windows 8 way just doesn't exist or isn't intuitive enough to know how to do it.
Also, Everything in Windows 8 is big and unscalable. I just haven't found enough worthwhile in it to justify it. I have an iPad, a 10" Android tablet and (of course) multiple Windows 7 desktops and laptops. Everything I do seems easier on these than Windows 8.

I'll keep hammering at it for a while, but otherwise, it might just have to go back.

 

Turning off the auto screen brightness. Swipe on the right of screen, select Settings (charm bar), select Change PC settings (at the bottom), select General, scroll down on right until you see Auto Brightness then turn it off.

 

thank you. I would have never found it.

 

When win 8 first came out I tried it and hated it. Since then I now have win 8 on most of my PC's and think it is better than Win7 just do to it being more efficient. What changed my mind? Two programs. Stardock Start 8 and Modern Mix. They are $5 each if you buy them but you can try them for free for 30 days. Install these two programs and you will never miss windows 7. The make Win8 just like Win7, with the start button (a real one, not like win 8.1 faux start button), and they give you the ability to run any native full screen windows 8 app in window on the desktop.

Just try them and you will not look back.

 

I use StartIsBack, which is a similar program for making Windows 8 more like Windows 7. That does help a lot. But, I think your experience (just living with it) is partly human nature. If you took away all my knives and forks and filled the drawer with chopsticks, sure...I could still eat. I'd be hard at first, but over time, I'd get used to it. But, why? Forks and knives work great! I really don't see 8 being more efficient for me. I'm a seasoned Windows person and like to eat with forks and knives.

Today, though, I took my XPS 18 to a client's office to work (instead of my normal notebook) and it turned out to be very functional (and actually nicer having a big 18" screen). So, if I can find a decent, light case that can hold it, plus my Logitech BT keyboard and mouse, I might have a purpose for it.
For me, it doesn't replace a desktop and it certainly won't replace any of my tablets (too big), but as a lightweight, big screen portable PC, it might work. Reminds me of when I first got my Dell XPS M2010 (and HP HDX "Dragon"), both portable, and both with 20" screens. Those were closer to 20lbs, though. I like 5lbs much better!

 

Have you tried ModernMix or whatever free equivalent? With that installed, I never ever go back to the metro UI, it might as well not really even be there, so for me, even though windows 7 has been my favorite MS OS ever, and I started before there was such a thing as windows, there is no reason not to like win8 just as much. So my guess is you do not want windows 7 either?

 

I think you're getting confused. I didn't say I don't like/want Windows 7. It's the exact opposite. Everything I have is Windows 7. The point is, I don't see the purpose to apply band-aids and fixes to Windows 8 in order to make it like Windows 7. In this case, yes. Since I have no other choice with the XPS 18 than Windows 8, whatever I can do to make it like everything else I have (Win 7) I'm willing to try. I was just making a more general statement about Windows 8 and your comment about how you acclimated yourself to it. That's all...

I'll look into the ModernMix now and try it out. FWIW, I, too, have been using PC's since the early days of DOS (as you can tell by my avatar picture). Seasoned veteran.

 

So, the tip of the XPS 18 charger looks like a miniature version of a standard Dell power tip...a thin collar with a PIN in the center. Do any other Dell laptops/tablets use this mini version also?
I'm hoping to find lesser expensive alternatives for power adapters. I like to keep a few here and there, and didn't want to have to buy the expensive Dell originals.

 

Anyone still around? Been awfully quiet!!

Another question for those with the stand...the Dell site calls the charging connector a "7 pin pogo magnetic connector".
I was assuming it's something like Apple's Magsafe adapter and attaches tablet to connector magnetically.
On my stand, there is ZERO magnetism between the stand connector and my XPS 18. The tablet does not easily sit on it, I need to sort of slide it in place to where it feels like it's solidly on the connector.

What do you guys say about the "magnetic" properties of the connector on your stands?

Thanks.

 

Yes, it's the same "mini" plug as the xps 12 and 13 however, these have a 45 watt chargers and the xps 18 is a 65 watt one I believe , the 45 watt one could might work but are unlikely to charge the xps 18.

You can however buy an adapter from dell to convert traditional dell power supply tips to the mini format. Let me see if I can dig out the reference.

 

I dont think mine is magnetic either, the same as you i have to move it until it sits properly and then it seems fairly secure after that. You do get used to gettting the position almost correct though after a little while.

I am after another charger too so hopefully we can find a suitable one as the official Dell chargers aren't available from Dell in the UK yet, which is odd given that the device is!

As to carrying the XPS 18, i went with the Dell MobileEdge sleeve for it to cover the screen etc and then placed that in a Jowa Milano 18-19" laptop bag ( jowa Milano 18.4": 2in1 Laptop BAG and Laptop BACKPACK in one for 18 and 18.4 Inch Laptops: Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories), it only just fits in the laptop sleeve part.

I went for that bag because i was looking for a vertical messenger bag like i have for my laptop rather than a horizontal one or backpack style. However the bag can also be made into a backpack by unzipping two bits on the back to get the straps out. Its a very nice bag and got plenty of room for a keyboard and mouse as well as other things you might need, notepads, pens, USB drives/pens etc

Also just a quick note for those people that want to run non-touch capable apps using just the touchscreen, there is a great app called GestureKey ($7.99 at last check) that you can use to make a profile up for the app in question using a drag and drop interface or XML file if you prefer. I used it to create a profile for Command & Conquer Generals Zero Hour, one of my favourite RTS games that i regularly go on with my brother, so that i could scroll the map (1 finger drag), zoom in and out (pinch to zoom), use a left (single tap) and right (two finger tap) mouse click and drag and select groups of units (2 finger drag - although could swap with map scroll if you wanted a 1 finger drag). I am going to add in a few unit groups too so i can do that from the touchscreen, probably use hold and tap for setting the groups, e.g. 3 fingers on the screen then tap with 1 more to set a group and then a 3 finger tap to recall that group.

I also use Start8 and ModernMix (They do a bundle with both for $7.99 rather than $4.99 each - Product Number: ESD-SDS-W1225), although mainly for all the old desktop apps i want to run on it. I do still use the start screen though and even use some of the Windows 8 store apps too.

Really loving this so far, even used it for reading kindle books at one point which was really easy and the device isnt that heavy (at least to me) to be used as a tablet too, you just need to find the right way to support it using your body too.

 

Thanks. I saw a pigtail adapter on dell that says it converts standard to a smaller tip, but it didn't list the XPS 18 so I wasn't sure. Also, the picture for the adapter doesn't show it's a right angle so it would stick out (not a show-stopper, but not the best, either).

Update: click HERE for the DC Pigtail adapter from Dell.

 

I see on Amazon this case: Everki Advance Laptop Bag - Briefcase, Fits up to 18.4-Inch (EKB407NCH18)

Links: Amazon.com : Everki Advance Laptop Bag - Briefcase, Fits up to 18.4-Inch (EKB407NCH18) : Laptop Sleeve : Electronics

And one customer review it here:
5.0 out of 5 stars Works for Dell XPS-18 18.4 inch tablet!, May 30, 2013
By gadgetjunkie (Orlando, FL) - See all my reviewsAmazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Everki Advance Laptop Bag - Briefcase, Fits up to 18.4-Inch (EKB407NCH18) (Personal Computers)
I was really hoping to find something that would fit my Dell XPS-18 18.4" tablet and this does! The XPS-18 is new and so far there's only a sleeve available from Dell that's guaranteed to fit. The problem with the sleeve is that there's no room to carry a keyboard, mouse or the power supply, so I found myself carrying both the sleeve and another bag for accessories.

This Everki 18.4" laptop bag fits the XPS-18 perfectly - The XPS-18 slides right in with a little room to spare and there's plenty of room in the other pockets for the other stuff I want to carry. It's as if they made this bag for the tablet.

Excellent quality bag with plenty of room and plenty of padding. It is well worth the purchase price.

 

This tablet is going from bad to worse. This morning, with it on the stand, I turned it on. I get a BIOS warning that the power adapter cannot be identified. In the BIOS, for AC Adapter it says "unknown". Tried unplugging, taking off stand and back on, etc.
Second, the Killer Wireless adapter seems to have gone south. Working fine yesterday, but today, the adapter driver cannot load when I boot up. Rebooted, uninstalled, reinstalled, no go. I've got an Intel 7260 AC wireless card I'm going to put in and try.

Sheesh...

Update: Uninstalled the Killer adapter. Removed and installed my Intel 7260AC. Turned on, installed Windows 8 driver, and voila! Functioning 802.11ac! Wifi connection at 866.7Mbps according to Network and Sharing Center info!!!

 

I too have had a hardware issue. Often now I get a constant plug/unplug usb device dinging and I cannot stop it. I checked the tray icons and I can see one going in and out over and over. It seems to be the SIS HD Touch Controller. I have not opened up the back to see if it is just something loose, but I might get a replacement as I am coming up on my 30 days and I do not want to troubleshoot for DELL and miss my 30 day window.

 

My XPS 18 will be here on Monday ( from Dell outlet). I will test and make sure the touch screen work in following case.
- Let the tablet warm up 1 hours to see if it has gosh touching (touch by itself).
- Cold boot, hot reboot if touch still work
- let it come out from sleep mode then check if touch still work.
My experience with Dell outlet is that it won't replace you with another one right away, due to first come first serve. Cause it does not has an item as your configurations on hand to swap for you. And you have only 21 Days to return for a full refund.
If you think you want to keep it (got a good deal?). Let them fix it. If they can not fix it until third time, then demand Dell replace you with a brand new one.
In your case if you want Dell fix it right at the first time, you must insist that the whole touch screen have to be replaced. The problem with touch screen is not only to Dell, it is also on HP, Lenovo, Fujitsu ....

Talking about boot from a replaced mSATA SSD. I see no one here mention about turn off the secure boot form UEFI Bios. In order to boot from new drive it has to be turn off. After you boot from a new drive successful ( at least one time) then you can go back Bios then turn secure boot on again.
I will post the result here when I got my XPS 18 and clone the had drive to my 256GB mSATA SSD and make it boots from mSATA.

 

Why are you so focused on testing the touchscreen? Is there an issue that you know of with the symptoms you are testing for? HP, Lenovo, Fujitsu?

When I cloned my HDD to the mSATA drive, I was able to boot off the mSATA only after removing the HDD first, so that the mSATA was the only drive in the system.

Enjoy!

 

No. I don't test for any body. I just a regular end user. But I have touch screen problem with HP Envy 11", Lenovo Twist and Fujitsu Q702.

If you put HDD back. Does it still boot from mSATA?
Thanks

 

lancorp

Just curious, are you using the win8.1 preview? I found that with the tweaks MS made, win8 is a looking a lot more ideal for touch screen devices.

I'm not sure if the "Store" was updated, but it seems pretty detailed to me. Granted there are a limited # of options, but plenty to choose from. Still waiting on a Yahoo Fantasy Football app. The thing with the apps is that if it's a native win8 app, the on screen keyboard functions properly.

My i5 should be here today so I'm looking forward to setting it up. Curious to see if the mSATA card boots faster / as fast as an SSD boot drive.

 

No, just Windows 8 that came with it. I've downloaded the Preview, but haven't had time to play with it (or is it I don't have the motivation to do it?)

Right now, I'm fighting with BT on this. I put an Intel 7260AC (after having issues with the Killer Wireless that came with it) in it and now BT just stops working after a few minutes. If I use a different mouse and navigate to BT devices, it starts again.

Issues....