Envy 14: New owners in Paradise Lost Thread: (Got Problems/Questions/Issues?)

Newer drivers address issues and improve performance for some games. For example, load times are greatly improved for Battlefield Bad Company 2 with 10.7a and those same drivers also address some units being invisible in Starcraft 2.

For the most part the stock drivers are fine. But if you're looking for a bug fix or improved performance in specific games or whatever, we like to update accordingly.

I don't expect HP to do too many OEM driver updates, so we have to do what we can.

 

You think it might be serious enough to RMA it? I'm not very knowledgeable enough about screens, so I'm just trying to get opinions.

 

Could someone please tell me how to burn the swsetup folder to dvd discs? I heard that it takes about 4 dvds, but I have no clue on how to start this. I checked the clean install thread and still couldn't find it. Thanks.

 

System Recovery requires 4 DVD's. To make them go to Start menu, All Programs, HP, Recovery Manager, Recovery Media Creation.

SWSetup folder should only require one, maybe two DVD's. My SWSetup folder is over 4.7GB so it will probably take two. But to back those up, either just copy/paste to an external hard drive, or pop in a blank DVD and copy/paste files to that DVD drive. Copy files that will fit, then pop in a new DVD and copy over the rest. Should be pretty straight forward.

I believe if you do a system restore from the restore dvd's the swsetup folder is recreated anyhow. But I'd back up the swsetup folder anyhow just in case.

 

oddly, my BatteryBar has recently started to disappear as soon as i restart windows. it worked fine in the beginning. i've re-installed it several times and face the same issue: it's there once installed and disappears (not listed in the programs either) after windows restart. any ideas for solution?

 

Hi guys,
I just had a few questions about the minimized image recovery.

Can I use it to recover onto any drive plugged in to the system (i.e. through USB or eSata?) I bought a 64GB SSD which I intend to use as a boot drive, and I want to do the minimized image recovery onto it. I haven't burned recovery DVDs yet because I can't find blank ones around the house, and I don't know if I want to do the USB drive thing because although I have like three external hard drives lying around in my room (actually old drives with enclosures) some people have reported that it failed for them. But I might just do that in the end anyway, and then MIR onto the SSD.

I have already backed up the SwSetup directory, and I do have some extra licenses of Windows 7 Pro x64 from school. I could use one of those to do a clean install too, but it seems to me that the MIR might be easier and I don't want to have to fiddle with drivers for the switchable graphics.

If anyone has done something similar to what I want to do, I would appreciate any input on how the process went.

 

my compact was like that. i thought it would be fine but the screen died within a few months. RMA it, so u wont regret it later

 

It's a shame that this is the case - with the increasing number of switchable laptops, one would hope that ATI would start building switchable support into CCC and the drivers as a standard feature. Surely they could write it so that it detected whether or not the system supported switching GPU's so it wouldn't get in the way of people with non-switchable systems...

 

Just try it and see. Probably will work fine. You won't need another key, just use the one on your laptop, it's under the battery. As long as you install the drivers from your SWSetup folder a clean install will be just fine.

 

Hmm, well OK. I wasn't talking about needing another key but whether I should just do a clean install with the Professional edition that I have, but I don't think I really need the few extra features anyway.

I've heard people mention that they had trouble with the USB option, is this generally the case?

 

awwww crap.


I just got that hard freeze again. This time I know I wasn't using java so that's not it.


and it's happened with firefox not open so firefox isn't it.

stupid laptop. Least it only happens like once in a blue moon.

didn't happen before I clean installed so maybe my win 7 install is screwed up somewhere.

 

Anyone know of a way to get the recovery thing to install onto a USB hard drive instead of a flash drive? Or can I just clone the recovery partition onto another drive and have it work? I think I'm going to try that actually. My DVD drive seems broken, which sucks, because everything else so far seems perfect (getting good battery life, temps are fine, no whine that I can hear).

On a random note, the SD card slot seems really hard to eject from, but I doubt I'll use it much anyway.

 

So far I haven't experienced many negative things with this laptop, so I'm contemplating skipping a clean win7 install (see earlier post, didn't get a response), so I'm curious if anyone has just done a bloatware clean up? Recommendations on what to uninstall and how?

Secondly. I believe I once read some others experienced issues with the wireless car dropping the signal. I didn't follow closely to hear if there was a solution. Advice? It's happened to me maybe 3 times in 3 weeks.

 

why don't u try a minimized image recovery or watever it is where it removes all the bloatware and leaves some of the hp apps

 

also update your wireless drivers (assuming you have a US envy and the intel 6200 card). The stock drivers drop the connection all the time.

new drivers work good. I mean it won't hold a connection when you close the lid (antennae are in the lid, metal blocks the connection)

 

Just a warning. If you plan on playing Borderlands, DO NOT update to 10.7. Severe memory leak issue. ATI needs to get their act together with compatibility with the Unreal 3 Engine.

 

I'm looking at buying a laptop for school and I want it to be lightweight, thin, and not overheat much. I'm looking at the ENVY because it has the graphics card I need, the ram, and the HDD I need for engineering in college. I was wondering how lightweight it is and if it overheats a lot. I have a laptop know and it overheats like crazy. Would you recommend getting they ENVY 14, or should I get something else? Also I know people complain about the trackpad, but I tried the dm4's and I liked it. Are they similar?

Thanks

 

To be honest, I read the post, but didn't see much talk about. Any more details other than the instructions.

I will have to go looking for the wireless drivers.

 

It is extremely light, and very thin, for its class. Think a 15" Macbook Pro, only slightly smaller. It is about 5 pounds even. Same weight as my 13" Macbook.

It runs SO cool. I'm browsing the web right now, listening to music, with all of the HP junk still installed, and 75% of my memory active, on my lap and I'm at 38C (100F). Gaming brings me up to 130F. My Macbook idled at 130F.

My one and only problem is with the battery life. I'm only getting 2.5 hours on integrated, web browsing with brightness down. However, it seems like my issue is rare, so I wouldn't worry.

 

Mine also runs very cool--I just just barely feel a little warmth on the bottom during normal non-intensive use.

My laptop has been on for the last few hours and I just checked it with my infrared thermometer. The warmest spot on the bottom is 96 and 92 on top in the wrist area.

As for the weight there are obviously lighter laptops, but this feels great to me and is easy to carry. One really nice thing is how clean the outside design is. The feet on the bottom are low-profile and there aren't other things jutting out, so it feels good in your hands and can slip in a bag easily.

 

Did a clean reinstall on my Envy 14. Tried plugging my external WD harddrive through esata but it isnt showing up anywhere. Is there a driver im missing? The USBs work just fine.

 

Normally, if there is no software to interface with the device on the eSATA port, you'll have to go to Computer Management in Windows and then manually rescan for disks.

Now, I found out that with the Intel Rapid Storage Technology software installed, it automatically will detect drives on the eSATA port-- or at least it does with my external desktop drive.

This makes eSATA a lot of less of a hassle, and a lot more useful, but...

In my opinion, it's almost useless on the Envy 14 as the eSATA port is on the right side of the notebook, so if you use a mouse right handed, chances are the eSATA cable is going to directly interfere with mouse movement.

HP did a terrible job balancing I/O on this notebook. That's my only real gripe about it though.

 

ok it finally found it. took some connecting, disconnecting, and restarting though. And it still doesnt always find it if it's connected to usb beforehand.

I dont mind it being on the right side so much as I only use it when i want to do a backup.

 

If you are ok with 1366x768 resolution, consider the Lenovo Y460 or Acer 4820TG. I hear the Acer has some pretty good cooling with similar specs to the Envy 14. I only recommend those because they are cheaper, although the Envy 14 is definitely top notch*.

* as long as your build is good.

 

Also, is the fan loud? In one review it said it got loud.

 

I haven't seen any dB readings from fans on any of these laptops personally. but when a laptop with a dedicated GPU especially, is loaded, the fan will be loud regardless. Usually it's a difference in pitch between manufacturers due to size of fan, RPM, etc, but cool system = loud fan.

 

Wondering what ever happenned with this? Did HP send you a new PSU?

Cause I just got this same message after I restarted my comp (cuz my wireless failed.... ) Weird thing is I have the i5 450....and not an i7.

Edit: I have a hunch that I'm getting it because I'm charging my battery as well while using it....which is why there isnt as much power for the notebook to run on as well....but that's just a hunch.

 

Ya I know. Just wondering HOW loud. Is it to the point of being a nuisance or just a background noise that you don't really notice.

Also one final question. Battery life is about 4-6 hours for everyday use right.

 

On my machine, not bad at all. I wear headphones when I game, and never hear the fan. ymmv.

See here:

http://forum.notebookreview.com/hp-envy-hdx/501066-envy-14-battery-life-log.html

 

Thank you As long as its not load during everyday stuff.

 

I wrote up a post (it's on the first page) to do a minimal image recovery. . .it's really simple and takes a little over an hour. I've had my envy for about 2 weeks with the MIR done and it runs very fast, no hanging, no whine, and i've been able to update the bios to f-6a, as well as the updated bluetooth drivers that came out on 8/1 all directly from the hp support site, so as far as I can tell, everything works great without the extra bloat.

I also downloaded the following to make sure my computer is running smooth without any unneccessary stuff running or clogging up my cache:

microsoft security essentials - very solid (free) anti-virus program, runs in the background and you barely even know it's there.

glary's utilities - (free) very nice program to clean out extra cached items hidden on your computer as well as cleaning up your registry

ccleaner -(free) awesome program that clears out cache from internet browsing, as well as great to use as an overall utility to clean out extra stuff that gets stored on your computer. . .

I'll most likely be switching out my 500gb hdd, with an ssd in the next few months and then my system should run even faster, so i'm psyched.

Hope this helps and if you're at all concerned about the bloatware, but leary of doing a clean install, this is a great happy medium, very simple, fast, and if it's still not to your liking, you can still do a clean install.

Cheers,

Sean

 

We'll I pulled the trigger last night. The wife needed a netbook for school and I thought I would either get the M11x or the Envy14, I guess you can figure out which I chose.

Here are the specs:
HP ENVY 14 customizable Notebook PC
• 7 Home Premium 64-bit
• (R) Core(TM) i7-720QM Quad Core processor (1.6GHz, 6MB L3 Cache) with Turbo Boost up to 2.8 GHz
• 1GB ATI Mobility Radeon(TM) HD 5650 Graphics [HDMI] - For Quad Core Processors
• 4GB DDR3 System Memory (2 Dimm)
• 320GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
• Microsoft(R) Office Starter 2010
• No additional security software
• 8 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
• 14.5" diagonal High Definition HP BrightView Infinity LED Display (1366x768)
• SuperMulti 8X DVD+/-R/RW with Double Layer Support (Slot Load)
• HP TrueVision HD Webcam and Dual Digital Integrated Microphones [For Brightview Infinity Display]
• Intel Wireless-N Card with Bluetooth
• Backlit Keyboard
• Corel(R) PaintShop Photo(TM) Pro X3 + Corel(R) VideoStudio(R) Pro X3
• HP Home & Home Office Store in-box envelope

I really enjoy looking through this forum and will spend most of my time here just looking up tips and tricks for when it ships (9 days). I was wondering what other forums I can get information.

Any way, i'm looking forward to learning more and appreciate everyone's patience with me while I am.

Can someone please point me in the direction of the drivers needed and the "Clean Install" Instructions?

 

See post 1 of this thread: http://forum.notebookreview.com/hp-envy-hdx/502434-official-hp-envy-14-owners-lounge-part-deux.html

Welcome aboard.

 

Oh wow, guess I should have look but was overwhelmed with the amount of topics.

Thanks x2.

 

Has anyone ever had any luck calling customer service and requesting a quicker build date than the one that is generated online? I am going to buy the base configuration of the Envy 14 and my estimated build date is August 24 and it would be much more convenient if I had it by the 24th.

Thanks.

 

Thanks Sean. Examples of bloatware that it got rid of? Just curious what is being considered bloatware, versus just HP utilities.

 

Potential buyer here: any idea why the Radiance Display isn't being offered at the moment and when/if it will be back on the options/upgrades list?

 

Is this the cable that i need to use my hdtv as an external monitor for my envy 14 laptop? thanks in advance.

Amazon.com: Link Depot HDMI to HDMI Cable (25 feet): Electronics

 

I think someone said they called ATT and the reason why the radian display isn't being offered now is because of supply issues. The guy said September 1st, they will have them again

 

Yes, it is.

 

thanks man!

 

What do I have to reinstall to get Beats audio back on my Envy

 

After installing all the recommended drivers and such, I have two folders in my c drive, HP and Intel. Both folders are persistent in that they will reappear upon startup after deleting them. Both contain nothing important, a shortcut and a weblink.

I found a registry key for the shortcut one in the Intel folder and deleted the key, it still comes back.

So basically my question is how do I get these annoying vestigial folders to go away?

 

Check the HP Envy 14 drivers page. There is a link on the first page of this thread. Just install the IDT Audio Driver.

 

Ok, So I just realized that the screen is no longer the Radiance screen, just the Brightview. Is that a dealbreaker? I spoke with HP CS and they said it was possible to have mine upgraded when they became available. I do know that I have 21 days to return if I don't enjoy it. My iMac is only 1680x1050.

Any other computers I should look at while I am debating? I took the envy over the M11x, and the m11x has the same resolution in a smaller screen.

 

uh...not sure how possible it is to upgrade your computer yourself.

also a rep was all "what the hell" when they saw that the radiance was gone so I'd hold off for a day or two and see if it reappears

 

Well I already ordered it, I'll continue to see if it posts to the website.

As far as the upgrade she said I would have to send it in. I have replaced LCD's on laptops before, so I would think it would be plug in play, + some display drivers/adaptors.

Received this at 10:36 this morning

Your order number is H113378183. Your customized HP Mini 110 is estimated to be built by August 24, 2010. Your customized HP Envy 14 is estimated to be built by August 24, 2010. Your chosen delivery method is Standard 5-7 Business Days and we will send you tracking information once your order ships.

Received this just now, 6:54 PM

This is the most recent update on your order cancellation request. After reviewing your order we have verified your custom built PC has already moved into the production process. However, we are making an active attempt to fulfill your cancellation request.

If successful, we will notify you by email and the refund will be issued. Typically, your bank will
post your credit within 5 business days.

If unsuccessful, you will receive a ship notification email. If you choose not to keep the product,
please call us on 1-866-217-6014 to arrange a return and credit.

8 hours. I wish it would take that long to build the systems. Then I wouldn't be waiting till the 24th for it to ship.

 

So. Updated hte driver via Htwingnut's guide, and got to 10.7a, however my problem is back. In fact, right clicking the ATI logo in the corner and selecting anything in the pop-up menu fails completely, like the menu is just dead. Only way to access anything ATI related is by searching ccc in windows and pressing enter. Even running the ccc.exe doesnt work
Anyone got a clue? Ill try another re-install, and whatnot, but this is a real pain. I dont wanna RMA for fear of a dud, but I really need to squeeze juice out of this, and I liked switchable gfx for that. Oh, and school starts very soon Im running out of time!
Other than that the 10.7a drivers are excellent, better load times, and no more invisible units in SC2

 

can anyone that has successfully logged in using luxand blink guide me through what they did?
i installed (and resintalled) and redone the template many times but i still cant login.
thanks

 

Has anyone experimented with any of the Chromium OS builds by Hexxeh? I was running them fine on my 5 year old Vaio but when I try to USB boot on the Envy it just hangs on a gray screen. I have the 450M and 160GB SSD, there shouldn't be any problem...