Feedback Wanted before I buy zv6000

I have a client to whom I've recommended the zv6000 based on price, features, and her intended use for the system. Here are the specs I've recommended below. Anyone with a pro/con they want to share about the zv6000 and this particular config are welcome! Thanks.

WinXP Pro SP2
AMD Athlon 64 3500 2.2GHz/512KB L2 cache)
128MB ATI Radeon XPRESS 200M w/ HyperMemory gfx card
1.0GB DDR SDRAM (2x512MB)
100GB 4200 RPM HDD (there is no 5400 RPM 100GB option or else I'd have gotten it)
LightScribe 8x DVD+/-RW & CD-RW drive
8 cell LIon battery

Also, my client wants to dock the notebook so she can use her wide aspect flat panel -- does the zb2000 expansion base have a VGA out? She will not be using the zb2000 expansion base as it was designed (where the notebook LCD is used as the docked monitor).

Thanks.

Mike

 

It's cheaper to go 1x512mb & add-in the other aftermarket DIY.
The lightscribe doesn't have DL capability yet.
The faster, but smaller HDD will help with performance (you can always add an external later or burn to dvd+r).
You might want to add $25 for the larger battery as it will add more than an 1-1.5hrs of time.
The jump from 3200+ to 3500+ is not that noticeable for most users.


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Http://www.zv6000forums.com

For all zv6k/r4k dialogue.

 

Well, you didn't really explain her intended use for the system, so it's hard to judge.

What you configured is a powerful data processing, desktop replacement notebook. If she wants something to carry around everywhere, you should probably look at a lighter 14 or 12 inch notebook. If she needs very powerful 3d graphic processing, then she should also look for another system.

Also, about the dock, if she just wants to hook it up to a monitor and doesn't care about the base, can't she just plug the monitor into the notebook's vga out without the need for a dock?

 

The xb2000 expansion base doesn't have a vga port on it. It has composite, s/pdif, and s-video ports on it. HP calls it an expansion base since it doesn't serve the same function as a docking station does, which is what it sounds like you may be looking for. The zv6000 does have a vga port on the back to connect an external monitor to, though. I'm using that myself connecting to an external LCD and using extended desktop.

_________
dragonwolf
***************
Recently purchased:
- HP zv6000 - for the kids
- HP dv4000 - for the wife
- HP LaserJet 1320
- HP xb2000 expansion base
- HP L2335 23" LCD

On order:
- HP nw8240 - for the me



All owners subject to change - just depends on which one I/wife/kids like best.

 

I am thinking in an system like you said, but with a athlon 3800+ or 4000+, but I found that right now the compaq is cheaper than the pavilion, I questioned an the notebooks Presario R4000 and Pavilion ZV6000 are the same, the differences are cosmetic and that the pavilion has a infrared port for the hp remote control sold separately.

The HD smaller, 80GB at 5400rpm is really better, by permormance, and the battery should have 12 cells, for getting the best performance any time.

If you client wants a portable notebook you should think in an IBM thinkpad or sony vaio. These hp and compaq are desktop replacement and are heavy and big.

I recommend you get the memory from newegg, they have a corsair PC3200 memories by $70, hp uses PC2700 memories, although the processors support PC3200, also you should get 2 chips of memory ofr maximum performance, is better 2*512MB than 1*1GB for a better use of the amd resources.

 

maddog,

Can you do us a favor at your convenience & try-out the dvd writer...supposedly it only writes @ 6x!!!

------------------------------
Http://www.zv6000forums.com

For all zv6k/r4k dialogue.

 

i just received my zv6000 a few days ago and couldn't be happier. My configuration is almost exactly the same as yours there. Only differences I have are: 12 cell battery (worth the extra $25, easy), the bluetooth, 80 gig 5400 (way better performance loading programs than the 4200, like 15-20% faster i think), XP home (not using it at work at all, just a home network), and regular dvd burner (no lightscribe available then).

I compensate for the small(er) drive with a 250 gig 7200rpm mounted in a $45 firewire case. that thing is way faster than either the 5400 or 4200.

I capture video from a miniDV camcorder straight to the external drive. this computer runs better and is more capable than my 2500 dollar desktop. the only thing that has on this is dual 19" monitors, and this will run two, just a pain to hook up all the time. The only thing it seems this little guy has a hard time with is major 3D work. I do zero gaming with my computers, so it doesn't matter to me. It runs my Delorme GPS in the car AWESOME, works like a charm.

thats all i got to say about that (FG, yo!)[ ]

 

I have some 8X DVD-R discs. I haven't opened them up yet cause i'm trying to use all my 1X's so i don't waste them. but i'll bust it out and check for ya. How exactly do i know if its burning at 8X vs. 6X??? do i render a 1 minute video and then run stopwatch during the actual "burning disc" time? let me know and i'll try it.

 

with mention of blank DVDs, I wanted to make sure everybody heard about the Staples deal this week, 50 DVD-R or 50 DVD+R for $7.94. No rebates, and you can use the 12% off coupon posted at various deal sites such as slickdeals.net for another buck or so off.