*HP Envy 15 Owners Lounge! PART 1*

Maybe 1.5-3x on CPU-bounds apps, maybe 1.5-3x on GPU-bound apps.

Also keep in mind that you get to 8GB for cheap ($100 if you ask HP) with the Envy (4 memory slots) vs $400-500 on all other laptops ($600 if you ask Apple), So a high-end 8GB MBP 15 is $2900. And the Envy 15 is almost unique in accommodating 16GB memory.

 

Just make sure you boot the Envy from the battery or you'll be disappointed. Sorry as an owner I couldn't resist.

 

wait why boot from battery?

 

why has no one written an in-depth review of this yet

 

There is one on the OP, by Genryu, some first impressions and a few follow ups. My in depth, full review is due to the 15-ish of December.

Announcement:​

I am sorry I have been very absent lately and not following the thread. I have been busy with uni and some trips around France for projects (so much fun ^^), and several threads members I have been helping.

So what have I missed, and what should I update in the front? Any benchmarks, updates, reviews, notes, information?

Thanks!

 

Yeah it seems to have its quirks. Obviously a firmware thing so it's reasonable to expect a fix.

 

Oh that seems handy. I will move that to the OP. Merci!

I should put that up front as an useful accessory. Thanks!

Oh havent seen this, sorry. I just re-read the last 100 posts searching for updates. Sorry, it takes some time to do it. RifterAD, could you please PM me with updates when you do so? I dont always catch them all. S=

Anyways, thanks! I am editing the front.

 

There is apparently a BIOS issue that prevents the Envy's Core i7 CPU from running with TurboBoost if the power adapter is plugged in during boot. Participants in this thread found that booting with the power adapter disconnected (at least up until the login screen) allowed TurboBoost to work properly for the duration of that Windows session.

 

UPDATE 26/11/2009​

Post updated with the info provided (which I found between the last 100 posts).
Thanks RifterAD and lbp5555!

OFF-TOPIC: Happy Thanksgiving to all of you who celebrate it!

EDIT: A little warning. This news has me concerned. From Fudzilla: Shortage of panels predicted

 

I agree, anyone wanting to do a fresh install should make sure things are working properly for at least a couple days. This way you can a) send it back without issue and b) you will be able to notice any changes after a clean install.

lol, #2 is always good advice. But you never know if performance is hindered until you test it out with a fresh install. If it doesn't work for you, go back (assuming the HP restore thing works).

I don't know why anyone would think that you would lose HP support for doing a fresh install. If HP can create special software and drivers based off of a fresh Windows 7 install, then they can obviously provide support for that fresh install since it is the same baseline that they are working with.




I can tell you that everything seems to be working for me after my fresh install. Windows update found almost all the drivers needed except:

- The ATI drivers were isntalled but no CCC software.
- The freefall sensor did not install which was fine since I was installing my new SSD.
- The light sensor did not install
- The Bluetooth did not install
- Of course all of the HP software did not install. I have only installed the quick launch software but none of the other other HP Software. So the calculator/printer/web/mail quick launch key's all work. but since I did not install the HP software, the HP specific software key does not do anything. When I get time, I might try to get it to work with something else.

All of the latest drivers are found in a link on Serg's first post of this thread and are fairly easy to install...especially since Windows Update finds most of it.

 

Yes, I always use the system for a couple days to test things a bit. I think it's a good idea to make restore disks.

I don't really care to test performance on OEM vs fresh, I just like fresh installing because it's fun and I always do it. It's my preference. I don't care to try and remove all the crap. I like to start clean and install only what I want and also install the drivers/software from HP.

I've had computers that run much better (no BSODS etc.) after fresh installing compared to the factory installation.

 

Did you try to re-installing the Intel drivers? How about the BIOS? Are you still running on the pre-installed Windows or did you do a fresh install?

I got mine from Best Buy with the f.05 BIOS already installed...so I haven't touched the BIOS and can't offer advice. I have a feeling that you'll have to re-install something if you haven't tried that yet...

 

Can anyone confirm that Bing 20% cashback is working right now?

 

ATI CCC for Download at Official AMD/ATI Website

 

I have the app that shows if the processors go into turbo, mine does even if i boot with it plugged in.

 

Confirmed:
loading...
Your purchase during this visit to HP Direct will earn you
20% cashback
Enter your email address and start shopping. We'll email you the info to open a cashback account or confirm your purchase in your existing account. How this works

 

I ordered a Dell XPS 1645 and I used the delay as an excuse to cancel without having to pay a re-stocking fee because of the AC Power issue, Dell's service, and I think the ENVY is better. The 20% cash back was enough to convince me to order. I can't wait to get this laptop and the 3DMark06score of 7841 is pretty sweet. I ordered:

HP ENVY 15 customizable Notebook PC
• Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
• Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-820QM Processor (1.73GHz, 8MB L2 Cache, 1333MHz FSB)
• 8GB DDR3 System Memory (4 Dimm)
• 410GB 5400RPM SATA Dual Hard Drive (SSD 160GB + 250GB 5400RPM)
• 1GB ATI Mobility Radeon(TM) HD 4830
• External Slot Blu-Ray ROM with SuperMulti DVD+/-R/RW Double Layer with 2 USB Ports
Estimated build date: December 4, 2009

 

Hi there NC1701-D (wow that was hard to write)

Congratulations on your purchase.

Welcome to the HP Envy 15 Owners Lounge. If you check the first page, I am the OP. So anything you might want me to add to the first post, let me know and I will. Send me a PM, I am mostly around here.

Feel free to post here, staying on topic. And WELCOME to this little community here. ^^

 

Interesting..20% off bing.com deal right now. I wonder if they will honor it.

 

Serg - Thanks!

Smilepak - I will let you know if the Bing cash back works. My order is pending right now, so it is too early to see it on my Bing account. They said it can take a day or two.

 

The app doesn't show your processor going into TurboMode even when you boot with it plugged it? You definitely have a problem... Other than re-installing stuff, I'm not sure what else could help you out. I'm not sure if anyone else could help you out...Intel or HP?

 

Hi everyone, I just receive my envy today,but it is a 1366x768 screen model, through my relationship, I get one 1920x1080 screen, I hope I can change the screen by myself, can I know how to open the upper case to change it? Thanks

 

It works automatically in theory, when you enters the HP website with a cookie indicating you coming from Bing search engine. It doesn't always work the first time.

Last time I tried in October, it did not register with Bing the first time; I had to cancel the first order a few hours later, and do a second order through Bing. The second one worked out. Just make sure you check to see if your Bing account registers that activity within a day or so.

I actually had to return the machine so far, because I could not get a straight answer from HP services of whether or not changing out the HDD would void my warranty; that is after spending hours through 5-6 phone calls to different departments in HP. Since I had the 3 yr accidental, I didn't want to take any chances. I may reorder now that we are getting a BCB comparable to the first one.

 

Yep, I know what you are talking about. The slice battery did not seem to have its locking mechanism in a working position when you first unpack it. You had to work with it a little to get it into position for it to fully lock to the machine. Just be extra careful and have a little dexterity.

 

I purchased the Envy using Bing cashback. Several hours after I made the purchase I received an e-mail from Bing stating that I earned 20% cash back. Seems like they will honor it. I've never had cashback revoked from Bing before.

 

I was just reposting info from past posts. My first Envy had other issues, I think I had already sent it back before I had a chance to test the Turbo Boost issue, and I don't recall what BIOS version it had. Maybe it'll be fixed with my new one.

 

^^That'll fix it too (hopefully). Here's to hoping.

 

Hi everyone,

I'm about to buy this laptop, but I'm a little concerned about the whole "my first envy had problems" routine.

The thing is, I'll be leaving the country for a month a few days after getting my hands on an Envy 15, and it'll be past the 21-day period that I've kept reading about.

Would this be a very bad idea? Should I wait to come back home before buying this little puppy?

Or if I have a problem when I'm overseas, will I be able to send it in for a replacement/repair when I come back?

Thanks in advance for whatever insight/help that you can provide.

 

OK my experience so far with the Envy 15 has been awful. First the unit I ordered from HP was dead on arrival. I asked for a refund, then went to Best Buy to buy one over the counter. I spent over a day setting that one up, creating HP recovery discs, plus Windows repair discs .. installing Office, VMware, SnagIt, CorelDraw, Crysis. It played Crysis and was amazing. Now this morning I need to do some work on it, I start and everything is ok, then I plug in my iPhone to charge and PHUT, the screen goes dark. NOW whenever I start the unit the fans whirr loudly but the screen remains dark!!!! What the hell!! I can't even use any of my restore disks because the screen is dead. I tried, but you can't see if anything is happening. Can anyone help? This is really shocking, two units in a row. How can I rely on an HP computer after this? Unless there is something easy, like checking the memory connection or the HD, then it's going back to Best Buy and I'm getting a MacBook Pro (just no game playing I guess) .... HELP!

 

No mine goes into turbo even when i boot it with it plugged in.

Hey serg, what was that link you posted? new video drivers?

 

Every company is going to have kinks like this with a brand new model like ours. What we are seeing here isn't out of the ordinary. Personally, I am not having any problems (knock on wood) and have been more impressed with it than I was expecting.

The 21 day period is the time frame that you can return it without hassle (but there might be a restocking fee depending on the reason). After the 21 day period, you have to keep it. But if it breaks after that 21 day period (while still under warranty), you can still send it in for repairs.

 

Hey guys, looks like it was first the graphics card and now I'm having some fan noise issues along the left side (near the beats speakers. I'm going to give HP a call tomorrow to see if they can sort things out for me with a replacement. Definitely can't afford to go without one considering finals are coming up. Hope the premium envy warranty/customer service experience comes through for me.

 

Keep us updated. I wonder how easy it will go. My first unit had the fan noise from time to time. Hopefully my second doesn't. I'm going all out and full specs on everything except 8gb RAM.

 

Hmm, so both of you (Genryu + QuadAllegory) had fan noises too? Do you think you have the same issue I had? (Keyboard isolation tape had air bubbles.) I will receive my 2nd Envy tomorrow, we'll see how that one is.

Haha, all this just reminds me how extremely small the margin of error is on laptops compared to desktops. Just having three fans 1-2 mm from the keyboard plate boggles my mind... Perhaps I'm getting old..

 

member - kkk70869413

Have you just bought 1366x768 model in Uk/Europe?

I myself have got the same model and was considering upgrading the screen to 1920x1080. Where are you getting yours from?

 

Which link? Sorry, I cant remember which ones was it...OP?

 

Hello

I'm leaving in Congo-Brazzaville

Could you please tell me how to buy one of these HP ENVY 15
(with ssd, i7 820, additional battery, french keyboard)
in France ?

Thank you for helping me

 

The Bing cash back did not show up on my first order because my HP username was an EPP account even though I got to the HP website from the Bing website and I didn't use any EPP discount. I canceled my first order and I must say that I called pretty late last night and they were not only working, but they were really helpful. My experience with Dell was not that great, so this was awesome. Even though a few hours had passed since I placed my order, they had already processed it and they are going to ship it and I will have to send it back. I placed a second order from a non-EPP account and the Bing Cash back showed up instantly.

 

Congrats NC1701-D on your Envy 15 purchase! (seriously it is hard to write that ^^)

Good luck! And keep us posted!

Hello dolphin, well, if you want to buy it from HP France directly and pay the price they ask for it, here is the link: HP Envy 15 at France for 1399 EUROS

 

Hello everyone, I'm going to hopefully order my Envy 15 tonight. I've been impressed so far. My laptop unfortunately died on me and with finals coming up I need something to work on. Fortunately it's supposed to arrive before my first exam!

I'm really looking forward to it, but it seems like a good idea to pick up the HDMI to VGA adapter that you buy along with it. Has anyone else gotten it?

 

Hi there Livre.

Forum members lbp5555 and Smedis seem to have gotten one.
The link for the part is on the OP (original post - first page).

And congratulations on your purchase. Bienvenu to this small HP Envy 15 Owners Thread.

 

Is it only for me Paint Shop Pro and Photoshop CS3 is incredible slow? It´s very frustating to work in them :-( any suggestions? maybe more RAM? I have 4 gb now.... any new driver I might need?
I find it very strang that those apps are so slow on this powerful computer...

 

hi yvonnesnet
i'm running both illustrator and photoshop cs3, what are you doing that is so slow? i too have 6gb, but i'm running the 820 processor.

 

I received my 2nd Envy today. So far everything is good. There's no sound from any of the fans, even if I press down a little bit on the three locations. I've just been installing software today and will do more tests over the weekend.

There is a tiny tiny bit of play between the upper and lower chassi where the harddisk is located (lower right). If I listen carefully, I might hear some creaking when pressing down on the chassi in that location. I only noticed it because I was looking for it, since someone had reported this. But it's really not noticeable in my case unless you go looking for it with a magnifying glass and stethoscope. I'm sure I can adjust a screw there if I felt like improving it. Nothing to talk about really, but I thought I'd mention it.

 

Great news!
Mine was creaking at the same place. It was very bad. I just lay my palm on mine and it would creak. It no longer creaks, as I expected. I bet yours gets better as the 2 pieces wear.

 

Hey guys. Is there a solution to the webcam being tinted purple/blue all the time? I expected that it would only happen in bad light but even in good light its tinted. What am i missing?

 

So, I've seen lots of complaints about the two finger scrolling. I found it is erratic if you put both fingers together and scroll. However, if you place them slightly apart, it works rock solidly. I believe it has trouble distinguishing multiple touches if they're right next to each other.

 

Anyone else notice their envy coming with f.06 bios? I'm wondering if thats somehow tied to my webcam issues.

 

Does your laptop have the f.06 Bios? This wouldn't be causing the webcam issue since I have it with f.05. Can you look at your screen really closely and see if you see any horizontal lines on it? When did you receive your laptop?

 

So the sad story finally came to an end today. As you may have seen from my earlier posts ... my first HP Envy 15 ordered from HP was completely dead on arrival. Got a refund. Bought another one from Best Buy (faster than waiting for HP to process and return another unit). Screen dead. Briefly came back to life, then died again. Today I took it back to Best Buy and got a refund. End of road was an Apple Store and a lovely new MacBook Pro 15" 2.8GHz on which I am writing this. The End. Goodnight Johnboy.