*HP HDX18 Owners Lounge*

The 18 has the second bay.

 

i guess that confuses me too.. so is it not possible to add the 2nd drive?

 

It is but you have to buy the bracket and adapter separately. You might be better served just ordering the 2 drives from HP though as you seem confused about all of this.

 

Well, HP won't sell the bracket for the second hard drive, but I hope that when the third party parts suppliers catch up, we'll be able to get the proper bracket from them. They usually cost about $20, which is far less than paying for two drives.

 

I am being told by HP that the HDX18 with one HD is built "differently" than the models with two. the direct quote from the chat is "For another, there will be no space for it, since the design for 1 hard drive is different for the other with two."

she went on to say adding a 2nd HD at a later date would void my warranty.

 

she's lying. Don't listen to them, they don't know squat about their own products. If it only comes with 1 bay, how could you void your warranty by adding a 2nd drive?

 

good point! i guess i will wait and see when it arrives (to ship 10/17).
i didnt want to cancel and re-order since the processor is no longer an option.

 

yeah, I just fired off an email to the place where I got my DV9700 caddy to see when they would have the HDX18 caddy's available for order. Since I plan on getting one when the quadcore's are back in stock.

 

So the caddy would be needed for me to install a 2nd drive, correct?
is that a simple process? I have installed other HDs as well as RAM.. so is it a similar knowledge base?

thanks for all the tips/help!

 

As the other posted mentioned I don't think she knows what she is talking about.

I will say that if that is the case I will return the laptop for a refund.

 

Thanks for the input. I totally didn't notice the "Desktop Memory" on all those DDR3s I on newegg. Has anyone seen any DDR3s for laptops? I heard that the new Mac Books have the DDR3 options already (+$150 from 2GB to 4GB), so they've gotta be out there somewhere. Do you guys know if the RAM you mentioned are higher quality than HP's default 4GB DDR2s?

Oh, and do the Seagate Momentus drives have free fall protection/Protectsmart type protection built in? I read they did on tomshardware, but they don't mention it on newegg.

One last thing. Intel is coming out with their Nehalem chips Q1 next year, which I hear offer a huge HUGE increase in performance over any current chipsets. I realize they're not out yet, but does anyone (who know's the hardware stuff like I don't) know what motherboard comes with the T9600/QX9300 systems. Mght it be compatible? Or would I have to upgrade the board and the processor together?

 

it's easy, takes about 10 minutes. All the caddy is is the metal guard, a few screws and the SATA adapter.

 

Has anyone actually received their HDX18 yet? Like physically arrived at their doorstep?

 

Well here it goes.

My Original HP computer was the DV9330us and it crapped out. Quick launch buttons went out 3 times then the cooling fans. They replaced it with a DV9930us and straight out of the box it wouldnt show any video on the screen only on External monitor...
Long story short...

My case manager is sending me The HDX 18T as a replacement for the DV9930us, Yes a replacement for the replacement. It is supposed to be delivered in the morning before 10am. Oh and as a perk to make up for all my problems, She is including a 2 year accidental coverage warranty to boot.

Originally ordered with the quad core it shipped with the 2.53 GHz Dual Core Intel processor and 4GB of Ram. TV Tuner. Bluetooth and all the Bells and whistles.

My case manager stated that the problem was in production with the MotherBoard manufacturer is why the Quads were yanked as options.
(This info was given to me on Oct 15th.)
Now my original 9330 had dual 320GB hard drives. But they interchanged into the 9930 so I needed no extra parts, just popped it in and good to go.

Now they are going around the world to send me the "adaptor" to install second HD on the HDX 18T instead of shipping it out preinstalled. It makes no sense at all to me but, getting this $2500 PowerHouse is certainly changing my mind about HP as a Whole.

I will post again after I get the box and set it up.

Great Forum Guys and Gals. Talk Soon.

Rob

 

Can you elaborate? on the quad/mb issue? Is this something they are working on a fix for or have they scrapped it as an option permanently?

 

Not sure on that. I will ask.

When I sign for the package My case manager is going to give me 2 hours to set the new laptop up and swap as much as I can over from the old one before I send it back. She will call. She actually does what she says she will. I will ask about the quad cores again. I will miss out this go around on the quad core but maybe one of you with a little prayer will receive one.

Let's hope that there is no delay in shipment delivery today.

Thanks

Rob

 

@ pdx alpha

Can you explain to me the difference between the 4G Memory options I'm seeing on various sites?

Like I see 4G (2 X 2G) and then other times I see just 4G (I guess on 1 card).

Is there a significant difference in terms of performance between 1 4G vs the other type? Is one better than the other?

 

I would really appreciate it if you could do this for me. I have tried emailing tier 1 support and they are idiots.

 

My HDX18 was supposed to be shipped yesterday but I have yet to get an email confirming it was shipped so I called up HP just now. They said that it did ship and that the order status just hasn't been updated yet. They said I should have a tracking number by 10pm tonight and my laptop should arrive around Tuesday or Wednesday next week....

 

the only difference is the price. the single 4gb module will cost more but it also leaves you with an empty ram slot - so in the future, you can upgrade by putting in another 4gb module. this, i feel, is the better of the two options in case you are planning to upgrade your ram in the future.

i dont think there is any difference though. but the 4gb on a single module will be a tiny bit more expensive.

 

Did you all know that all of the HDX series are built in China and shipped from Shanghai to Anchorage Alaska where it goes thru customs.

All of the HDX series are custom built/tested before they leave the factory ?

Mine will not be here until tomorrow. Some idiot in Indy Indiana put it on a truck to Jackson Mississippi instead of a Plane. It will be here tomorrow.

I am going to call my case manager and get the scoop on those Quads for you guys because I know how it is to be waiting on someone else. Also I have to make sure that the adapter is shipping out today for the secondary HD.

Talk soon
Rob

 

Did you order with the quad processor? I ordered mine with the quad processor and was supppose to be built by 10/14. I called HP late afternoon yestereday for info and the rep said that my order will be push to November for delivery and to check my e-mail for an update from HP. Still no update e-mail.

 

Bummer. I have a couple of quads on order, and am waiting anxiously for them. The good thing, if history repeats itself, is HP will credit you 5% back when it does ship for the inconvenience. Plus, you might get a $50 coupon to use at HP.com....

Still, I'd rather have my Quad NOW!

 

@times & Cass-

Yes, they're more expensive, especially if you want the same speed you can get on the 2GB sticks (PC2 6400, CL 5-5-5-15). (Which might not even be available in those exact specs for any *reasonable* price)

The 4GB (2x2) is a much much better option right now, hands down. Even if you run a lot of apps, as a desktop user these days 4GB of memory is way more than enough. I don't mean that like Bill Gates did when he said 640Kb is enough lol. It'll be enough for the next couple years

 

So base on your conversation with HP, it seems like those who order the HDX18 with quad processor will not be getting it anytime soon. My order has not change status

 

Yes I ordered the Quad core processor. The guy I talked to said it was being shipped from china as we speak and it will be another day or so before it gets through customs. He told me I would have it by Tuesday or Wednesday of next week. I hope he knows what hes talking about.....

 

This is not what I was told when I called.

 

Guys I have bad news. According to the Case Managers, the Quad Core Processors have been pulled until further notice. Due to production problems at the factory in Shanghai China. It was upper management decision. And you will notice that the 4 GB memory option has vanished from the "Customize" option on the system builder. On an educated guess from my case manager : orders placed already will be on a callback list for order modifications. Based on past experience from my case manager.
Please do not quote me on this to anyone at HP because I am repeating something from someone else. (Hear say) This is just an attempt to help all of you that are in this boat. I wish I could say if they will be an available option in the near future. I would call HP and put pressure on them. IMHO Do not advertise something that you can't deliver.

I will post more Info as I receive it if I think it will help.
Good Luck
Rob

 

How in the hell could you sell something and then pull it? Isnt that bait and switch?
Mine is "scheduled" to ship tomorrow..guess i will wait and see...

 

As a follow up, here is my chat log from a few minutes ago:

10/16/2008 11:31:48AM Agent (Janice): "I'm sorry. Can you please elaborate on your question so that I may better assist you?"
10/16/2008 11:32:59AM Daren: "My order of the HDX18t includes the Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Quad Processor QX9300 (2.53Hz). I have been hearing from others who have it ordered that it may not be available due to a production issue. can you update me as mine is scheduled to ship 10/17"
10/16/2008 11:34:03AM Agent (Janice): "Okay. I understand that you are concerned about any delays in the production of your notebook due to components shortage."
10/16/2008 11:34:14AM Daren: "yes"
10/16/2008 11:34:28AM Agent (Janice): "Please give me a minute to look up for your order."
10/16/2008 11:34:42AM Daren: "sure"
10/16/2008 11:36:15AM Agent (Janice): "You placed the order last October 14, is that correct?"
10/16/2008 11:36:59AM Daren: "no, that was for the HDX16. the HDX18t was placed on 10/6"
10/16/2008 11:37:48AM Agent (Janice): "Okay. Let me just double check."
10/16/2008 11:38:12AM Agent (Janice): "Okay."
10/16/2008 11:38:35AM Agent (Janice): "Your order is still in production as of this moment."

10/16/2008 11:39:00AM Daren: "so there are no issues with the production of that processor?"
10/16/2008 11:39:17AM Agent (Janice): "I also cannot provide you any details pertaining to components shortage. If in case that will happen, we will notify you."
10/16/2008 11:39:52AM Daren: "and what would that mean? being notified?"
10/16/2008 11:40:10AM Agent (Janice): "I also cannot say if there are or there will be issues in production due to components shortage."
10/16/2008 11:40:42AM Agent (Janice): "If in case there are issues, we will be sending you a notification through email."
10/16/2008 11:40:49AM Daren: "but to the best of your knowledge you have not heard of an issue? if there are, i would like to know sooner than later."
10/16/2008 11:41:18AM Agent (Janice): "Yes. we have not receive any updates as well."
10/16/2008 11:41:22AM Agent (Janice): "Do you have any further questions?"
10/16/2008 11:42:12AM Daren: "just in follow up, that if there are delays caused on the HP end of the sale, am i just out of luck or am i at least given a % off the next purchase?"
10/16/2008 11:42:55AM Agent (Janice): "We will also try to make it up to our customers if there are any delays or issues."
10/16/2008 11:43:21AM Agent (Janice): "Do you have any further questions?"
10/16/2008 11:43:23AM Agent (Janice): "Is there anything else I can assist you with today?"
10/16/2008 11:43:26AM Daren: "ok, so for now, i will assume the notebook will ship tomorrow. thanks."
10/16/2008 11:44:11AM Agent (Janice): "We will deliver it to you within the estimated delivery date you have chosen."

 

Mine was scheduled to ship today and it hasn't.

I also forgot to call sales and upgrade to the free two-day shipping, but that doesn't seem to make their packages get to me any faster anyway. lol.

 

In case anyone cares, I called HP for the second time today and they assured me that my laptop had been build and was currently on its way over from China. They didn't have a tracking number for me yet but said that I should get one by tomorrow at the latest.

 

If your HDX18 has shipped, then where is mine. Mine was ordered on the 1st of Oct. As I had mention before the sales rep said deliver will be November. When did you order your HDX18?

 

Great...So for people like me who sent my laptop back already to order the quad...I am without a laptop until they come back out with them Grrr... You guys think I should just order the 2.8 and as soon as the quads come back order it and send this one back...?

 

what is the return policy? isn't it 30 days?

 

Realtor Ken, why dont you like your badass setup for the dv7t?

 

Reading all these screw-ups, I wonder if HP should bring back Carly Fiorina.

 

Yeah, its 30 days from delivery date...

I had the dv9700t with the ultra bright before the dv7t and either the Infinity completely sucks by itself outdoors or the Ultra Bright is needed to see the screen while outdoors...I'm hoping for the latter.

Plus I'm like a little kid and always want the newest and greatest so getting the best technology helps when I go to re-sell it in a year or so..

 

Last I checked, it was 21 days...

 

As Alpha said above me, it's 21 days from delivery, not 30. It's a very big distinction.

 

My bad...LoL I actually sent my dv7t back on day 26 because they give you 5 days to ship it out once you get a RMA label.

 

Just wanted to say thanks to pdx and times...you guys are very nice and always willing to help someone out. I really do appreciate your knowledge.

 

Bad news QUAD CORE hopefuls...just got this email from HP:

Dear Valued Customer,

Thank you for purchasing an HP notebook computer. We would like to inform you that the processor option you had selected of the Intel(R) Core Quad QX9300 (2.53Hz) has unfortunately come under issue and has impacted the continuation of your order.

To assist you with this situation, we would be able to have the processor option you had ordered changed to the Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Duo Processor T9600 (2.80GHz)] so that your order can continue on its way to be built and shipped out to you. With this option, you would also be credited back $75, which is the price difference between the processor option you had originally selected and the processor option your order would be modified to.

Please contact us, by either replying to this email or by calling 1-866-217-6014 to let us know if the option mentioned above is agreeable to you. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and thank you again for selecting HP as your product of choice.

Does this mean that I cannot wait for their "issue" to be worked out? Does that mean that they realized they were taking it in the shorts selling the QX9300 so cheap? And, $75 less for a T9600? You have to be kidding me...

 

looks like it means no quadcore processors until after the beginning of the year.

 

I'd say call and tell them their offer isn't good enough. They might give you a better credit, or cancel the order and give you a gift receipt. If they don't agree... hang up and call again, talk to someone else.

 

Hello Everyone, long time reader, first time poster.

I have to agree with lancorp, I jst got the email, and it -smacks- of 'we arent wanting to take a loss on this'. So, I have replied asking for a -very- detailed reason as to what's going on. Having 12 years + in IT, I think I can handle anything that they care to explain.

I have kept everything civil, nothing negative nor nasty in the email, but I am -deeply- interested as to the 'official' reason. If it's something like 'the processor on the mb can't address 8gb of ram only 6.8gb', then I am willing to live with that

I -am- annoyed though, annoyed enough that if this isn't resolved properly and fairly, well.. time to vote with my dollars

 

Well, the plot thickens.

I jst phoned up HP Sales and gave them my order and all the information. I was then told that the processor was 'no longer available'. I asked why (always maintaining an 'up-beat' attitude) and asked for a -very- specific reason. The nice sales lady (and she was nice) put me on hold for about 6 minutes so she could talk with the technical department.

When she came back she said that she could 'offer me the highest cpu currently available for the notebook', I asked if it was the quad code and she said 'no, its the dual core at 2.8'. I explained to her that I already have a dual core, so this was not attractive to me. I explained that I need the quad core for Oracle and programming (true).

I then asked the coup de grace (and I hope this doesn't cost any to lose their job) 'is this a technical issue or are you merely out of stock ?' "oh, we are out of stock and we don't want to hold up your order" to which I then asked 'without being angry, because I am not, but, honestly, how is this not bait and switch ?' .. she got flustered and then I backed off. After all, she is only a sales person and I am sure she could get into a LOT of trouble. I also had the -distinct- impression that there was an 'overseer' standing right behind her. I told her that I would be more than happy to put the 'order on hold until stock levels are back' (kinda mean but, I -really- was upbeat and never shouted or cursed at all.. that wouldn't be fair)

So, in short, I am going to give the person who sent me a latter a ring tomorrow (one Ryan Presley) and ask him whats going on.

 

Hey guys, I just got the same email as well. I went to check my email as soon as I read what lancorp posted. I have a background in computers, but as to what I should say, can someone help me with that? I too would not "settle" for the 9600 and the $75 credit. That to me is FAR from acceptable. What would everyone here recommend I should consider doing? To me there's a huge difference between the processors obviously. And $75 doesn't begin to show the difference.

 

The cheapest T9600 that I can find on Google Shopping (ebay excluded, T9600 is roughly priced about $550) is $541
http://www.google.com/products/catalog?q=Intel+T9600&cid=8626494157931704932&scoring=p#ps-sellers

The cheapest QX9300 is about $1141
http://www.google.com/products?q=qx9300&scoring=p

For HP to downgrade from QX9300 to T9600, it needs to credit back about $1141-$541 = $600

Otherwise, this is BAIT-AND-SWITCH and I plan to file complain to California State Attorney General.

After all, DELL had been sued for bait-and-switch tactics by NY State Attorney General.
http://www.dmnews.com/NY-attorney-general-sues-Dell-for-bait-and-switch-tactics/article/95582/

 

^^^^ You are an intelligent individual! Mean and stern to HP,LMAO, but still very smart for your decision to take legal action for yourself. Definitely "Bait and Switch"!!!