*HP ENVY 17 & 17 3D (2XXX series) Owners Lounge*

I love this computer. After all the initial troubles, I'm glad I kept it. Rock stable now, been on for 2 days straight without as much as a hiccup.
It even runs Crysis2 on max without problems.

 

The light was solid. It turned on pretty much right when the 3D movie clip started. I don't have any 3d games, so I can't tell. Heck, I don't have any game (this just classified my as a total outsider ).
But I might actually get a couple once now.

 

I have a hard time believing that last statement. What are you averaging?

 

No idea, it runs well atleast.

 

So if it handles Crysis2 with no problems then I can expect the same of my Envy with Call of Duty Modern Warfare Black Ops then; would you agree or disagree?

Next thing; out of everyone that received your shipment email today; has anyone seen anything other than "Initiated" as to their status...

I've checked every 4 to 5 hours and my status has gone unchanged; has anyone seen similar or different results? I'd like to hear from you.

 

Yeah call of duty should also run very well. This computer performs well over my expectations.

 

Wow....simply brilliant.This thread is super informative.

I ordered my E173DSB on April 8th.Hoping to get the shipping notice today.

HP ENVY 17 3D customizable Notebook PC

* • Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
* • No Additional Office Software
* • 2nd generation Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-2630QM (2.0 GHz, 6MB L3 Cache) with Turbo Boost up to 2.9 GHz
* • 1GB GDDR5 Radeon(TM) HD 6850M Graphics [HDMI]
* • 8GB DDR3 System Memory (2 Dimm)
* • System Recovery DVD with Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
* • 750GB 5400RPM Hard Drive with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
* • One 6-Cell and One 9-Cell Lithium Ion Battery
* • 17.3" diagonal Full HD HP 3D Ultra BrightView Infinity LED Display (1920x1080)
* • Blu-ray player & SuperMulti DVD burner
* • HP TrueVision HD Webcam
* • Intel 802.11a/b/g/n WLAN and Bluetooth(R)
* • Backlit Keyboard
* • Adobe(R) Photoshop(R) Elements 9 & Adobe Premiere(R) Elements 9
* • HP 3D Active Shutter Glasses
* • HP Home & Home Office Store in-box envelope

Estimated build date: April 26, 2011
$1277 before tax.

 

I'm still looking forward to the HD version.

Speaking of 3d, actually, I'd ask you to do a 3D version of the unboxing... but I don't have my Envy yet, so I couldn't watch it anyways

 

I got an H order number, called 3 times and was told that it was put through. I can use the number to check the status. On the first page it still says order declined and 'please call'. But then if you click and go to the second page, it says, "your order HXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX was received". It has the whole order and has a summary of the discounts applied.

IF IF IF they end up canceling it and I have to redo it, they haven't said anything in the 5-6 calls I've made to them so far using the original H order number. And if it's cancelled, and I reorder, even if they honor the original coupon, I'll loose $87 in discounts because I went through another website that gives me %5 cash back. I'd be pissed if I loose the $87 and especially if I loose the 25% coupon, but after some of the stuff they've told you all, I wouldn't be surprised.

marcus

 

What is it that is so hard to believe?

The envy has a few foibles and we've found viable (and cost effective) fixes for most of the issues.

It's hardly dog crap.

 

Fiver5 it is seldom I take a dictionary trip; its been decades since I've seen "foibles" used in a sentence... thanks for the trip down memory lane.

a minor weakness or failing of character; slight flaw or defect: an all-too-human foible.

 

Thanks, that made me laugh! I agree, I haven't seen 'foibles' used in a long time, and I'd be willing to bet I've never seen used for a computer.

 

EDIT Ill post in a separate thread, wrong one i think

 

I don't think he meant that it's hard to believe it's a good computer. I think he was just saying it was hard to believe it could handle Crysis 2 on max graphic settings because it's such a graphic heavy game. Then he asked what the average frame FPS was on the max settings.

I think it's believable though that it can handle the max settings with decent fps. It's NOT a gaming system, but it has blazing cpu's, a solid gpu, and sounds like a very decent cooling system. I know that Crysis is possibly the most demanding game, so it's one of the main ways people test the gaming performance, but it sounds like the Envy can handle it well.

 

I know exactly what he meant.

The GPU in the envy isn't going to set any records, but it's a freaking laptop. I have no doubt that the hardcore gamers who obsess about FPS and have water cooled systems can look down their nose at it.

If it's such a concern I'll post some Crysis2 FPS numbers next week. Everyone else can then tell us how poor the results are compared to their uber gaming rigs.

Meanwhile the rest of us that that understand what this system is supposed to actually be can enjoy playing playing games with the reduced framerate and somehow find a way to survive in life despite this terrible shortcoming.

 

deleted ....

 

Crysis2 doesn't seem too demanding. Seems like they dumbed down everything from the prequel, including the requirements. (Yeah I'm disappointed cause I LOVED Crysis, but this one is a huge letdown so far)

And when I say I run Crysis2 on max without problems, It's on Ultra settings, 1920x1080 resolution. And I'm probably not breaking any fps records, but I'd say it's a stable 20-25+ without any major hiccups.. More than playable, and it looks great.

 

Got it! I apologize for not giving you the benifit of the doubt.

I agree that the laptop won't stand up against a water cooled, dual Quadro card monster gaming system, but like you said, it's a laptop. AND it's not even a gaming laptop.

Considering the size, form factor, and flexibility of this laptop (seriously, who is going to show up to a business/client meeting and show their PPT on a Asus stealth fighter, or a glowing red notebook with an alien face on the lid?), the ability of this laptop, even gaming ability, is pretty outstanding.

 

Wow, pretty impressive. Just the other day I saw a hard-core gamers type "I'd never accept less than 100fps, just doesn't look good." And others have said things like "anything less than 60-70fps looks horrible."

I don't understand honestly. If I can enjoy a movie at 25fps, why would 25fps make a game unplayable? I feel like less than 25fps starts looking choppy/jumpy and can make it hard to play, but 25fps is good enough for anything I do.

I heard a rumor that Crysis 2 is easier on graphics than 1 was. Hadn't heard any thing negative though (don't game much myself, Dirt 2 on occasion), it's too bad you are disappointed with it.

 

I had issues with Black Ops!!! It kept on slowing down on occasion. I haven't updated the gfx drivers yet and am using the latest ones that are available from HP.

Would you please be so kind to check. I think there is a problem with the game and this particular driver.

I am waiting for AMD to release the 11.4 drivers since they will be better suited for the Envy 17.

I would love to help you out mate but I am not here permanently in Germany I m afraid.

What I know is that the Envy 17s are being sold in stores in Germany!! But not the 3D version. Maybe you could drive down during a weekend and vistit mediamarkt if you don't mind having the non 3D version.

The warranty on these things is one year international; 2nd year: country of origin. But maybe you can speak to customer service! They sometimes offer good deals for warranty!

 

Both non3d (2001eg) as well as 3D (2000eg) are available off HP Online Store in Germany. I got a 2001eg yesterday and am still trying to decide whether I have a b2 or b3 revision southbridge lal . According to Serial I shouldnt (111), all other software checks say otherwise
Really confused...

 

Just played left 4 dead in 3d which was a bit of a wierd thing. Thought it was really good, but takes some getting used too - I wasnt always sure I was firing at the zombies with the depth of field. Thinks its quite demanding on your eyes too.

Without 3d I set most things to max, msx at 4 and antialiasing at 8 and it runs super smooth - this is in HD.

On the 3d i had to put msx at 2 and antialiasing trilinear, also shading down to medium.

I think the 3 whilst it add depth feels like some loss of detail (settings aside) not sure if its a novelty....needs some more testing

The 3s basket ball video on the system is really impressive.


No more bluescreens - but i have stayed with the pc when its on....seems when I go away it plays up! Think it might be the stardock my colours - so have switched it off. Anyone have this problem?

 

Stephan C excellent! Everday I go to your 240p video hoping you uploaded the HD version! LOL. When you get it up just post the link in the video thread I made:

http://forum.notebookreview.com/hp-...17-sb-envy-17-3d-sb-youtube-video-thread.html

Thanks again.

KJ

 

That's what I wanted to hear. Now, with Crysis 2, by max do you mean the "hardcore" setting? They have Gamer, Advanced, and Hardcore. My dv7 plays the low setting of Gamer just ok, but not too smoothlty.

KJ

 

Same here, 6gb, ordered on the 7th, not shipped. Starting to sound like they ran outa ram... wish i could tell them to stick 8gb in and i'll pay the difference lol.

My shipping address and Billing address were different, but my order was not declined. Instead I received a call on my cellphone about.. 4-5 hours after my order and i went through some RSA verification process. Took all of 5-10 minutes and then my order went through, some of the questions were funny tho lol.

It might have helped that my CC company does know i get things shipped to that address all the time, and that the address they are shipping to is a company address, one they have done alot of work with

 

Still waiting on mine too, ordered about the same time. But I DID get the 8gb of RAM, so if they ran out of 3gb sticks, they must also be short on 4gb sticks.

Ya, they called me too, and I missed the call at first. By the time I called back the next morning, they had already declined (not cancelled) my order, but then asked me the silly questions and said they re-activated (or whatever the word is) my order. But then it still said declined on the status so I called back and had to answer the questions again. Then I called back about something different and they transfered me and made me answer the questions again but assured me that the order was fine and that they made a note that it had been approved already to avoid having to verify the order an more.

They said the order is fine, but I'm not sure I'll ever see the computer. Sucks, because I was excited and already got a new HDD caddy for the second bay.

 

Do you mind telling me how you are checking?

I tried checking as well at one point and came to the conclusion that I am fine.

I would like to help out!! 2000eg here

 

As of Saturday 8:30am mine is still "initiating"

 

It seems that search isn't pulling up any results when I look for comments on the trackpad. I think I saw some very early posts from Fiver5 discussing driver issues, but what about after all of that was resolved?

The top reason I'm wary of an Envy is because of the touchpad issues on the previous generation. How does the new system fare? Does it include the newest Synaptics touchpad that got such great previews? I just can't understand why Apple laptops are so far ahead of Windows machines in terms of touchpad accuracy, multi-touch performance, scrolling, etc. I'd like a high-performance laptop and the Envy totally fits the bill if the trackpad is finally of high quality. Thanks for any comments.

 

Saturday 10:30AM (CST)

Package picked up, after Fedex cutoff. Estimated delivery now 4/21.

 

I don't have any games either Hey - I may be posting this too early as I haven't read the posts after this post of yours - but if you confirm that it is the glasses - call tech support back, and if the rep won't just do an exchange of glasses, ask to speak to their supervisor. They may run you around about transferring you (or place you on infinite hold - just hang up and get the next person) - but be persistent. Keep going up this process until you get someone who has their head plugged in and will do an exchange. I worked at an IBM call center in the early 90's and can work that system pretty good - if it isn't completely broken. Many times the level 1's just don't know how to vary from the boilerplate answers or have been trained incorrectly. Getting up to a level 2 or 3 will usually get you what you want if it makes sense - which this completely does.

 

& @mrgod2u - did either of you guys get other messages before the "initiating" message? I ordered mine on the 14th and when I go under "my orders" this is what mine status says "Order dropped to factory
(Estimated to ship on May 6, 2011)"

 

Dropped to factory is right before "in production"

 

Isn't that difficulty? I'm talking about graphics settings, pretty sure the highest said ultra.

 

Well, check this link:

Crysis 2 has an ‘extreme’ graphic setting on PC | GamersMint

I have no idea how he got the "Extreme" level! He states there is even a rumored "Ultra Extreme."

Anyway, for now I get Gamer (lowest setting), Advanced, and Hardcore (highest setting).

So we are on the same page, on the Welcome screen you should have:

Resume Game
Campaign
Multiplayer
Profiles
Extras
Options Choose Options. Then you have the Options menu:

Game
Sound
Graphics
Brightness
3D Options (will be grayed if you don't have 3D laptop with card)
Controls

Choose Graphics, under that menu:
Resolution
Fullscreen (yes/no)
V-Sync (yes/)
System Spec

Under System Spec you have:
Gamer (low setting), Advanced (middle setting), and Hardcore (highest setting)..... I have no idea how this guy has Extreme, and there is the rumored Ultra Extreme....

Apoxxx, let me know if you get those options... I can't imagine you have Ultra Extreme!!!! What the heck? I would freak if that is true. I just want to confirm if you still have the choices of Gamer, Advanced, and Hardcore...do you have Extreme? and the Ultra you are using, is that Ultra Exreme? Thanks in advanced.

KJ

 

Here is some good news; it looks like our laptops are taking a Chinese Fly, Fly, Flyaway their Monday, our Sunday 18 hours ahead of Hawaii and 24 hours ahead of us EST.

This is what I read a few hours ago, kind of busy here with taxes and farm animals:

All shipment travel activity is displayed in local time for the location

Date/Time Activity Location Details

Apr 15, 2011 1:17 AM Shipment information sent to FedEx

Apr 16, 2011 11:32 PM Picked up SHANGHAI CN Package received after FedEx cutoff

I just noticed the delivery date has been changed from 19 April to the 20th; that's OK I have to work Monday and Tuesday

 

Peaches07 Yes I did at Fri, April 15, 2011 1:46:03 AM Hawaii time

Peaches I never checked before the time I saw initiating; it was so far off in the distance on my build date I saw no need to check and when I received the shipping tracking number I was shocked but pleasantly surprised!!!!!!

 

I hate the trackpad with every bone in my body.

There is a thread running in this section of the forum that discusses a number of software fixes that make it tolerable.

If I ever find a way to physically remove the envy trackpad and replace it with another piece of hardware I will do so.

The trackpad is quite survivable if you are willing to change your work habits and the way you interact with the machine. I am a grumpy person though.

 

And yet, you manged to stick with the Envy with all the "issues" that we are working through. You should give yourself more credit. Who knows, maybe the Envy is making you a better person? (Just me being silly on a gloomy Saturday.)

KJ

 

Thanks, I think I'm just gonna have them send it to a lockbox in Germany and I'll get it there. Do you know what the return policy is like?

By the way, are you sure they have the new SB ENVY at MediaMarkt? Just checked their website and there's still the legacy model listed.

 

To me the track pad is a non-issue.

The first thing I'm doing after I have everything backed up & bloat ware removed is to disable that thing. In fact I might do that first; I hate track pads; they suck and are a genuine nuisance. This envy is going to be my 3rd laptop entwined with a long strand of desktops I've owned and will continue to be purchasing. On my horizon is the "tock" series of the Ivy Bridge chips with a Area-51™ ALX Desktop... there goes 6-7K for sure...

Give me a G-5 logitech any day! Over a sucks all track pad

 

mrgod2u, I'm afraid you and me are the exception here! I find the trackpad/touchpad, whatever you want to call it, a distraction, and mostly a waste. I plug in a USB mouse FTW! Feels like a desktop with the benefits of being able to move it anywhere. Believe it or not, I even started using my current dv7 in bed with a mouse. Today's mice can react very well on uneven surfaces.

I just hope for our fellow NBR members who are die hard fans of the track pad, that HP updates it soon to match the praises I hear about the Macbook Pro pad.

KJ

 

Sorry KJ, I have no idea where I got Ultra from, I doublechecked now and it says Extreme. I'd take a screenshot if I could, but there's no such option ingame.
Anyway, it looks and runs real nice.

 

They use a 4 GB and a 2 GB stick for the 6 GB config (there are no 3 GB sticks).

 

Question for everyone with an Envy. What mode is your HDD in???

I just looked and my SSD and HDD are both UDMA 5. No where in the bios for AHCI...and If I recall...Flyer5 put in a new Vertex 3 and it is UDMA 6, am I correct? I am getting top read speeds on my SSD of about 185. My Toshiba 640 GB HDD tests normally with top of 120 and bottom of 60. All is good...but am trying to get a handle on this SSD. I went to flash it's bios with the new Intel bios...and the flasher didn't even recognize the SSD. Hmmm! I wonder if HP dumbs these things down

 

Apr 16, 2011 11:32 PM
Picked up
SHANGHAI CNPackage received after FedEx cutoff
Estimated delivery Apr 21, 2011 by 4:30 PM
My Delivery also moved back a day to the 21st

 

Well I'll take the 20 April delivery date over the 19th because it whoops the daylights of my 29 April build date... I'm very happy its coming to me sooner!

 

I'm not able to install the driver for the USB3.0 port, anyone here with the same problem?

 

Nevermind, lol.
Windows can be so picky at times. The installer didn't work so I had to do it manually. But that didn't work either untill I found the .sys files and right clicked and pressed install, after that the automatic driver update found the correct driver.

 

All my peripherals came today (on a Saturday...right after a bunch of tornadoes passed through our area - w.e.i.r.d!). Now my docking station is just sitting here waiting for the mothership to land....