---> OFFICIAL: Dell STUDIO 14z Owner's Lounge <---

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STUDIO 14Z - 265 PAGES of PROBLEMS
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A) i really wanted to buy this laptop
B) i read about 150 pages here and i must say - i'm shocked

according to you this is what the 14z is all about:

1. crappiest touch-pad ever, non-responsive at times. very "low tec". always use a mouse (don't want to carry extra gear - its a laptop)

2. keyboard has too much flex. also keys dive to much making typing a bit of a struggle

3. hardware issues only a dangerous bios update can solve

who wants to buy a computer and get frustrated every time?!?!?!

please tell me, what are my alternatives for this laptop?
should i just add 400$ and buy macbook pro 13?

 

I've been here for most of this thread's life, and it kind of seems the problems were exaggerated.

#1 I think most people were disappointed that this computer didn't have a synaptics touchpad, but I like this touchpad much better than the one on my sister's HP. Right now, macs have the best touchpads, but that doesn't mean that this touchpad is crap. The reason for alot of the complaints was because the driver on the site during a period would cause some lag, but when a different version was used (I forget which) that took care of it.

#2 From what I remember, people said that the keyboard had flex, but most agreed that it wasn't much of a problem, although some 14z's actually had some pretty bad flex I think.

#3 I haven't had any hardware issues, but one problem with A02 I think was that it switched the fn keys back to the original and not the media controls etc. I believe A04 is doing pretty good, but I haven't checked back in awhile.


Physically, I think the mac has the best chassi etc out there, but I don't really like the mac os.

To everyone else, the 64 bit A04 that you try to download is really the 32 bit, so you need click on it and download the 64 bit version.

Try this link

http://support.dell.com/support/dow...typeid=-1&dateid=-1&formatid=-1&fileid=357874

 

I received mine with the A03 BIOS. I actually put Windows XP on it and used the 32bit A04 BIOS file to update it with NO ISSUES. I couldn't find an XP driver for the IEEE controller and Hibernation/Stand By wouldn't work so I put the Vista 64bit back on it.

 

I would highly suggest that you add the $400+ and buy the Macbook Pro 13. If you have the extra cash, why not? If price were no object I might well have done the same.

But - before you do - visit the various Apple Macbook forums and read about the issues a very vocal minority of owners of these (admittedly) nice laptops are having with their machines. If you really think paying a significant premium for a Mac guarantees no QC problems, I'm sure you'll find quite a few Mac owners who will disagree with you.

But sincerely, good luck with whatever choice you make.

KC

 

actually i don't want the mac OS as well. i have managed to tame windows to my likings over the years.

* are there any owners here with a 14z studio that are pleased with

1. performance
2. chasi (someone claimed that it peels\scratches after a while)
3. keyboard
4. and yes the now infamous touchpad

* if not, can you point me to a pc alternative
(* and by the way - what is the difference between synaptic and alps?)
thanks

 

I recently upgraded to Windows 7 and Bios A04, but now I can't seem to connect to any wireless networks. I've tried reinstalling the driver, but no luck. Anyone else experience this problem?

 

I've installed (clean install) Win7 x86 several times and never a problem with wireless (using built-in driver).

Did you "clean" install or upgrade an existing Vista?

PDS

 

I upgraded from Vista using the Dell upgrade discs.

 

What are you talking about? "Too much flex", "hardware issues", "256 pages of problems" -- no need to spread FUD here. First of all, these are all exaggerated problems, I don't know why some people act like drama queens. Second, I believe 14z has less problems that any other model, just show me a thread here for a model that has less issues or is problem-free. People come here to complain, and rarely anyone will be googling to find a forum to say how happy he is with the computer. And finally, if you are afraid, just don't buy it, nobody is forcing you to do that.
Macs have lots of problems too, but fanboy mac owners will never admit that. Proceed at your own risk.

 

i don't think people here are drama queens - if you buy a model that has faulty pieces- its your right to complain and a duty to warn innocent buyers. i am also not a mac fanboy otherwise i wouldn't be here. i'm just trying to get an idea before i purchase this laptop "pluses and minuses". that's why i posted this:
"
actually i don't want the mac OS as well. i have managed to tame windows to my likings over the years.

* are there any owners here with a 14z studio that are pleased with

1. performance
2. chasi (someone claimed that it peels\scratches after a while)
3. keyboard
4. and yes the now infamous touchpad

* if not, can you point me to a pc alternative
(* and by the way - what is the difference between synaptic and alps?)
thanks"

 

I have no issues with performance, the chassis, the keyboard, or the 'infamous' touchpad. Furthermore, I've never had any issues with the BIOS or 'dangerous' BIOS updates. I think you're reading way too much into random complaints on a message board. I haven't posted much here because I haven't had any problems to complain about. In fact, I haven't read much anywhere about any of the 'problems' you're concerned about. I agree with LexusForever, this laptop seems to have far less complaints about it than others.

 

Has anyone tried the BSEL mod on the 800FSB processor to overclock?

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=390696

 

Wow, this thing is really impressive honestly. I get 40 fps @1200x resolution with everything on medium settings except water and postprocessing and textures (very high, high and high respectively) in crysis. Incredible in my opinion. if you doubt me just dl the demo and try for yourself!

 

does the 7 in 1 carder not read microSDHC ?? it's not working for me

 

I assume you are putting the microSDHC card into an adapter card (regular SD card size). Unfortunately, when it comes to reading the SD cards, the reader must support the SDHC mode, otherwise it won't read those microSDHC cards and i'm not even sure what kind of reader you have. See in its list of specs whether it supports SDHC (or High Capacity) vs just SD.

 

Got my laptop back today, they put a new motherboard, and BIOS is A01. I will install a 32-bit Windows first to update BIOS, and then wipe the OS and install 64-bit.

 

It depends on what you want to do on it, and what software you will use. If you are going to use 3D CAD software, take a look at Latitude E6400, it's a very solid one.

 

According to the manual, it's an 8-in-1 card reader, but it doesn't support microSDHC. Formats supported are:

• Secure Digital (SD) memory card
• MultiMediaCard (MMC)
• MMC+
• Memory Stick
• Memory Stick PRO
• xD-Picture Card
• Hi Speed-SD
• Hi Density-SD

 

Just finished upgrading to Win 7. It was so quick and simple, contrary to my worst fears.

The only thing that took a little time was that I didn't upgrade the Face Recognition software to Win 7 compatible before starting, and it was deleted during the process. I had to re-install and upgrade it.

Otherwise it was as easy as can be hoped for. I haven't tested all the new features yet, but Win 7 sure looks pretty.

One more thing - Dell sent the upgrade disc out right after I submitted the request, and they didn't charge anything for S&H. Classy act.

 

I just got a new studio 14z that makes an irritating continous noise at even low-speed. As I usually work in a quiet room where my wife is sleeping next to me, I am considering returning it back unless some one has a suggestion on how to fix this problem. It should be something that doesn't break my hardware warranty .

Configuration: Processor - P8700; RAM - 3G; Display 720p.

If there is no other way to solve this fan noise, it would be great if any one can suggust me a non-atom (used 10v and not impressed by its processor), very quiet sub $1000 laptops for my use.

 

Are you sure it's the cpu fan? What does the noise sound like?

Try muting the speakers. Does the noise continue?

Here's a similar laptop with good reviews....
http://www.amazon.com/Acer-Timeline-AS4810TZ-4508-14-Inch-Aluminum/dp/B002P3KSKW

PDS

 

Quick note...

For those thinking of upgrading memory to 5gb, the price of a 4gb DDR3 SODIMM has dropped considerably. You can get a good quality module for around $200 now.

Even Dell has lowered their price...
Here's one on Amazon...
Another here.

Note the last one is DDR3-1333mhz which is capable of faster speeds for the same price. The 14z won't run at 1333mhz but perhaps the memory could be re-used someday in another pc.

Dell and others have released new laptops using 4gb sodimms so it's becoming mainstream. Look for prices to drop further.

 

Not sure how many other fans 14z has, but the fan that makes noise is the one towards left side & underneath the keyboard. I am sure its the same fan because there is no noise when fan is not running. I have a backlight keyboard so I can clearly seeing the fan switching on & switching off in that light.

Its mostly sound of air blowing with a faint squeaky sound. It might be nothing for many, but we have had Dell D620 for last 4 years and that baby is still so quiet that it has really set a high bar for our noise tolerence level. Trying fanless mini 10v for a few days didn't help either .

AS4810TZ-4508 - CULV SU4100 processor doesn't work for me. Need something with Intel Virtualization Technology. SU7300 in recently announced Vostro V13 looks like a possible option. I tried Vostro 13XX series once and noticed that its fan had only two settings something like 4000 rpm & 5000 rpm (or something similar) and even the lowest fan settings was extremely loud. Added to that fan was switching itself on and off the fan every 90 secs. Basically was a piece of crap as far as its design goes. CULV processor on the new system & Vostro V13's sexy adamo looks are drawing me to it again. I need to think hard before I make that move.

Thanks for your reply.

 

Hi all. I've had my 14z for about 3 months now (got it for uni). Great laptop. Have a few questions (sry, don't got time to look through other posts, exams are creeping up on me):

1. How are your laptop temps? Mine are about high 30's low 40's when idle, mid 50's, peaking 60's when under heavy load from gaming (RMClock temps, Celsius readings, gaming is MMO's)

2. I haven't updated my bios yet from when I purchased my laptop since back around that time (early sept.) there was some issue regarding BOSDs related to a conflict from a vista update and the newest bios ver. I'm planning on installing W7 on my laptop once winter break rolls around. Are there any issues regarding with W7 and the newest bios?

3. Backtracking to point 1. I asked about the temps because I'm concerned if my frequent gaming (resulting in my laptop always under high heat conditions) is wrecking my baby faster than it would. I'm considering getting a cooling pad. Also perhaps undervolting the cpu. I just want to reduce temps while still maintaining performance. Regarding a cooling pad, any suggestions on which brand/model is best for the 14z (price vs. performance wise). Or should i just buy the cheapest thing out there?

 

I was originally afraid of upgrading my bios to a04 and to windows 7. but i did both after some prompting from a friend. bios and windows 7 seem to work fine together. battery life is good. gives me about 5 ish hours on dell recommended. the computer resumes from standby much quicker with 7 and everything seems to be smoother as well. im liking this os much better than vista despite being skeptical about its performance before. id definitely recommend it when you're done with exams.

also does anyone else have the fans running almost all the time? my laptops relatively cool and its not that bothersome but i was wondering if you guys were experiencing the same thing just in case.

last thing.. anyone know how to get synaptics like gestures for this touchpad? not exactly loving the alps.

 

I don't know if I'm imagining things, but it seems that when I first got the laptop, the fan was running much more frequently than now, a month after I got it. Maybe a lot of updates were being downloaded so things were running harder and hotter, but certainly there's been no change in my own usage pattern. I was really regretting getting a 14z at the beginning as the fan noise was quite bothersome, but now it is nowhere as intrusive.

 

Afaik, almost all Nvidia single-chip solutions (chipset+graphics) have heat and fan issues (some fatal). These chips have a lot going on! You can't avoid fan noise with the Studio 14z (doesn't bother me).

Dell's BIOS updates have the most impact as they control the default settings for these things and unfortunately do not give us control of the fan settings etc (like most desktops do).

My take, if your system is working well don't tinker with it. If you have heat/fan issues, try some of the software to help control fan speed, undervolting and other "work arounds". For Vista/Win7, switch to a normal non-Aero theme which is less work for your graphics processor.

 

I am having some serious heat issues when playign World of Warcraft. Under-volting was the first thing I did before I even started playing the game and I have all the multipliers set at .9250V... Even still my CPU will get as hot as 90 Celsisu when playing wow ... every 5 seconds the screen will start lagging severly like 1-2fps and the sound will start crackling... i am pretty sure it has to do with heat...

i dunno why its getting this hot.. cause when I ran the stress tests when I was undervolting it never got this hot... I have to constantly prop my laptop on somethign to play

Anything else I can check or do to make my laptop run cooler?

 

Good to hear there's no conflicting issues with the bios. I've been using W7 on my desktop back at home since beta. Loved it. That's why I'm dying to switch over because vista is just a drag.

Not exactly sure what you imply when you say "fan running all the time" (though i suspect mine falls into your category). For me, I can hear a dull hum when it's idling beside me in a quiet room.

As far as the alps goes, mine even has issues registering double taps.. sometimes i need to double tap a few times before it registers. I suspect I may have to re-configure its sensitivity (I haven't actually touched the settings yet). Other than that, everything seems normal (though definitely multi-touch controls would have made it so much more awesome)

 

Are you sure you need something with VT? Vmware runs 32bit os's just fine in virtualization. While granted I would love the ability to run 64bit OS's in VT it is not something I do often so hence I own a 14z as well.

 

I just recently purchased a studio 14z. My question is: does the BIOS (currently vA04) support virtualization? It seems like my processor, T6670, supports VT-x according to Intel's website ( http://ark.intel.com/Product.aspx?id=42109). However VirtualBox does not recongize that my system has virtualization. Also my system fails the program to check for Windows XP mode. I really need VT-x to run 64-bit OS.

 

1. Very pleased with performance. My machine is quite snappy with Win7 using the P8600 cpu.
2. No problems with my chassis so far, though I expect the palmrests will show wear eventually since they are painted.
3. At first I was worried about the keyboard because it does have some flex, but in use I don't really notice it. Mind you, I don't use this laptop for the majority of my typing work. The backlighting on the keyboard is wonderful!
4. In my opinion, ALL touchpads are worthless, so I honestly couldn't tell you how this one rates. I always use a wireless mouse, even if it's on a magazine on the couch next to me. Touchpads are just way too frustrating to bother with.

All in all, I love this machine. The 1600x900 display and the Nvidia graphics elevate it far above the majority of laptops out there, and I got it for a very good price through the outlet.


Brent

 

what to do ... what to do

i see a lot of ppl selling this model on different forums - all perfectly good with no issues. i admit, i've become very suspicious. on product wiki someone wrote "unusuable touchpad" -which is very strait forward.

be as honest as you can in a thread that is called 14z. i have 900$ to spend on a laptop. i wanted good balance between weight, productivity, screen so i got to this model. if i buy have no warranty - this model is not marketed in europe. something goes wrong - and i have to send it with shipping,

what would you recommend for 900$ that has the qualities of the 14z (slick, lite, powerful, affordable)

thanks.

 

1. Performance is very good.
2. Chasis is great. Very smooth bottom so it is really comfortable to put on your lap. I've had the laptop for several months and haven't had any peeling/scratching. It looks like new.
3. Keyboard is excellent. You'll have no problems typing on it. There is a small amount of flex, but it doesn't affect typing at all.
4. The touchpad is fine when it's working properly. However, sometimes it fails and constantly left-clicks or doesn't click at all at which point I have to restart the computer.

I'm pretty sure the touchpad issue is due to crappy drivers. If anyone else has had this problem and knows how to fix it please let me know!

I'm using 64 bit Windows 7. I'm using the most recent drivers from Dell's site.

Other than my problems with the touchpad, I'm very happy with the 14z.

 

Thanks for your response. I returned 14z and ordered a new Vostro V13. 40 day wait is killing me.

Yes, I have a specific requirement of using VT for my day to day work.

P8XXX series processors in 14z do have Intel VT. So I didn't understand what you meant by owning 14z because you don't need VT.

 

does anybody know what happened to the internal bluetooth option?

i configured a Studio 14z in Dell's Home & Office section, but i did not have an option to add the Dell Wireless 365 internal bluetooth.

yet when i configured the same system in Dell's Small Business, i had the option to include the Dell Wireless 365 internal bluetooth.




also, i don't see Dell offering an N wireless card anymore. they only have the Dell Wireless 1397 802.11g.




anybody notice the same thing and know what happened?

 

hey guys I just installed w7 premium from my windows release copy, and now the fan is going bonkers and I can't seem to get it to slow down. My temps are great by the way, so it's not overheating

Things I've tried:

Flashing bios to a04
changing processor cooling policy passive/active
reinstalled the chipset driver (which made things faster, but didn't help the fan)

Any help?

 

i think it may have something to do with the nvidia smu, mediastorage, nforce system management drivers. I've been having trouble with them, and I think it may have something to do with it? Any help?

 

Go ahead and configure the system on whichever site gives you the cheaper price, save it, then do an online chat and ask the rep to add the missing option manually. They'll give you whatever price you got for your saved configuration, plus the cost of the option.

I did the same thing when I wanted a blue exterior, and it wasn't available on the site where I built my system. It's a bit of a hassle, but you do get the lower price, and you still get the feature you want.

 

Try the Nvidia Chipset drivers HERE.

If you then have problems where Windows sometimes boots real slow, rollback the Sata AHCI disk controller to the default Microsoft driver (generic AHCI driver).

 

Yes, all the BIOS versions (even A01, and also the latest A04) support virtualization. The difference was that in prior BIOS versions it was Disabled by default, while in A04 it is Enabled by default. The option is available, and you can always change that.

 

I am a new owner of a Windows 7 Studio 14z and have a couple of quick questions.

1. I thought I read in this thread that the USB ports should work even when the screen is closed. Should this be the case?
2. When I connect a HDMI cable to the laptop, the picture shows up on my TV but there is no sound coming from the TV or laptop. Any suggestions on how to get the sound to work?

Thanks!

 

hey, guys..i need ur opinion on something. I purchased my studio 14z in july and its been approximately 6 months. I haven't had any problems. THe keyboard flex is just fine with me and i type a lot. I think its designed that way. The laptop has been perfect for me except for one problem.

The dc power jack(the place where you plug in the power cable) appears to be loose. The plug wiggles a lot and it gets very annoying after a while. It still charges though. Dell sent an onsite technician who said that the entire motherboard will have to be replaced and that they will do it for free. Here's the problem. I found out that Dell uses refurbished parts for all warranty replacements/repairs. So they're goin to be replacing my original motherboard with a refurbished one. I don't like the sound of that since refurbished parts don't really last as long as the original. Should i leave the laptop as it is and wait until i absolutely need the replacement or should i just go ahead and get it replaced hoping the refurbished motherboard is still new or not used much since this is still a new laptop model

 

Only one of the USB ports on the right side (the one toward the front) stays powered even when you turn the laptop off.

"Closing the screen" is technically not correct. You can configure your laptop to do any number of things when you close the screen, from nothing to sleep, or hibernate, or shut down.

I don't have an answer to your second question. You did turn the volume on, right?

 

Try to reboot with the HDMI cable connected.

 

I didn't know that. Where did you find that out? I also got my mobo replaced because of the BIOS update that went wrong And yes, the power port is kinda loose, but it doesn't bother me at all.

 

So the port should charge when the laptop is shut down? Do I have to activate this in any way?

 

You don't need to do anything to activate. The only thing I am not sure about is whether it will charge with the laptop on battery, or whether it charges only when the laptop is plugged into AC power.

The above is true for the right front port, which is a combination USB and eSATA port. The left port and right rear port are USB only, and they go off when the laptop is shut down.

 

According the to manual the USB PowerShare feature is disabled when less than 10% of the total battery remains. I guess this means PowerShare always work when you are plugged into AC and when your battery charge is above 10%.

 

To hemchand_a, regarding noise ===

I do not own a 14z nor am I going to read this thread, but try to determine if it is the fan , or, if it's "CPU WHINE" aka motherboard coil noise.

If it's coil noise, you can try the RMclock tricks (run HLT command...) that you see all over the web.

If it's fan noise, I think i8kfangui might do the trick (takes some configuring to get it to work on most laptops)