*HP HDX18 Owners Lounge*

Thanks. I really like the Swiss Gear backpacks and would prefer that over a conventional bag.

 

Did you call sales? This would save me $50 but I don't know how that will affect my cash back.

 

Hi, I am looking at buying a new HDX 18 right now, and the only option I am still trying to decide on is the TV tuner. This is probably a really stupid question, but I've never had an integrated tuner before: could someone who has one with the tuner tell me if the integrated TV tuner is entirely internal, or it expands dimensions of the the computer at all? Any other thoughts on pros/cons of getting the built-in tuner? Thanks very much to anyone who can help.

 

So how long is the price match good for? I ordered mine March 9th and now they have the 30% coupon back.

 

Totally built in. Just a tiny antenna jack on the right side toward the rear. The tuner works quite well, actually! I hardly ever use mine, but I HAD to get it seeing that you will NOT be able to add it later, it is totally internal, and it's CHEAP!

 

They told me 21 days.

 

I got it as well. Hell, it's only $37.50!

Mine ships the 15th.

 

Thanks but Bummer.....

 

Thanks very much for the info! I think I'll go ahead and get the tuner.

 

Thanks for the coupon heads up.

 

I ordered my laptop on April 3rd and received a build date of April 17th. Today I called HP customer service because of the new 30% off coupon. I had only saved $550 from coupons when I could of saved over $800 bucks if I ordered now vs. early April. They credited me over $200 dollars back on my Amex because I told them I was willing to do a return/re-order (since they hadn't even shipped it yet) and instead they refunded the difference to my card. If anybody else ordered before the new coupon I suggest you do the same.

Here is my build - I can't wait for her to arrive:

HP HDX18t / Quad Processor QX9300 (2.53Hz) / 4GB DDR3 System Memory / 320GB 7200RPM SATA / 1GB Nvidia GeForce GT 130M / 18.4" diagonal High Definition HP Ultra BrightView Infinity Display (1920x1080p) / Lightscribe Blu-Ray / Webcam + Fingerprint Reader/ Intel Next-Gen Wireless-N Mini-card with Bluetooth/ HP Integrated HDTV Hybrid Tuner / Backlit Keyboard

I should've added the blu-ray writer but owell, I will just add a SSD drive when it arrives and call it a day.

Can you upgrade to a blu-ray writer later? Let me know, Thanks!

 

Now did they credit your account right away?

I am in the same boat, ordered on April 9th, Shipping date of the 15th, and when I called they said they would credit my account once my computer was shipped.

 

Oh my goodness gratious and the holly matrimony: I just wasted 12 hours of my time today trying to replicate the steps below. I am dying to get my legit Win Xp Pro x64 on my machine so I can take advantage of the 8 GB under SolidEdge ST (trial).

So far I got my USB to boot into the installation of XP x64 which is outstanding (another process that I've been unsuccessfully tinkering with for a while now but today I have closure; it's finally working).

As far as the 31244.sys SATA miniport driver package (which I invariably get the install of XP x64 to stall at) I worked with is what I found here f6flpy64.zip: http://downloadcenter.intel.com/dow...y64.zip&DwnldId=16014&ProductID=2842&lang=eng.

In addition, I also tried WINDPA.ZIP ( http://downloadcenter.intel.com/dow...DPA.ZIP&DwnldId=7072&ProductID=1666&lang=eng).

The machine I have is slightly different than the one quoted below but none of the less it lists the following:

HP HDX 18-1180ca

( http://h20386.www2.hp.com/CanadaStore/Product.aspx?pdetail=P71424&pid=C36443&)

Intel® Core™2 Quad Processor Q9000
2.00 GHz, 6 MB L2 Cache, 1066 MHz FSB
SATA Hard Disk Drive

Does anyone have any thoughts as to why I get stuck with the following message despite slipstreaming the "write drivers" for it:

"The device associated with the following device driver will not work ...: gd31244.sys...."

Any suggestions at this point are very appreciated!

Cheers!

PS. I got Xp Pro x86 Sp3 to install just fine and I have confirmation that my video card under Xp Pro x86 Sp3 which only sees 3 out of 4 GB of RAM is outperforming Vista x64.


http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?p=4160926

 

Trying to decide whether I should get this
HP HDX18t Premium Series customizable Notebook PC
NK625AV

* – Upgrade to Genuine Windows Vista Ultimate with Service Pack 1 (64-bit)
* – Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Quad Processor QX9300 (2.53Hz)
* – $100 OFF!! 8GB DDR3 System Memory (2 Dimm) - For 1GB Nvidia GeForce GT 130M
* – 640GB 7200RPM SATA Dual Hard Drive (320GB x 2) with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
* – 1GB Nvidia GeForce GT 130M - For DDR3 Memory
* – 18.4" diagonal High Definition HP Ultra BrightView Infinity Display (1920x1080p)
* – Blu-Ray +/-R/RW with SuperMulti
* – Webcam + Fingerprint Reader with HP Imprint Finish (Fluid)
* – Intel Next-Gen Wireless-N Mini-card with Bluetooth
* – 50% OFF!! HP Integrated HDTV Hybrid Tuner
* – Full Size Backlit Keyboard
* – Extra 8 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
* – $10 OFF!! System Recovery DVD with Genuine Windows Vista Ultimate (64-bit)
* – No Productivity Software
* – HP Home & Home Office Store in-box envelope


or the asus W90. In addition,I'd like to know whether the wireless card on this unit is a 5100 or a 5300

 

I ordered the HDX18t (from HP) just last Friday. Today I saw the new 30% coupon so I called HP to see if they would apply a credit to my card as some OP have posted. But, NO NO NO they would not do that and I found that I must first cancel my entire order and reorder it again. Plus, the instant rebate of $200.00 would no longer be applicable when using the 30% off coupon. And I also had used the $250.00 coupon on my original order too. I would have saved about 62 bucks canceling/reordering and my build date would be a few days later too so I ended up leaving the order as is since I would like my new laptop sooner than later.

 

My recommendation would be to call back until you get someone that will go ahead with the credit.

 

They are right about the $200 instant rebate not applying, as you can't stack them, but they're wrong about having to cancel your order and reorder. Just tell them to notate your account to apply a credit for the difference ($62) to the card you used as soon as your laptop is shipped. You'll have to call them again once it does ship and have them apply the credit then. If you have trouble with the person you're speaking with, then demand to speak to their mananger. If you have trouble with them, speak to their manager. Eventually you'll get what you deserve, if you're patient enough.

 

Thank you SO much for pointing out the coupon!! I was customizing a HDX18t (after looking at the dv7t and realizing that the hdx18t had more for a lower price)...

It was like getting the 3yr extended warranty for free plus a couple other add ons!

Mine should ship by the 21st! : )

 

Hey Guys

Been a while since I posted here (after getting my HDX 2 months ago).

Anyway, I didn't order the Blutooth module during the build and now my wife has just bought a new Sprint Instinct phone (with b/t) and I was wondering if HP sells the BT chip separately as a add-on? I know Dell does this for their laptops.

Any way to get BT on my laptop now? I know I should have ordered the BT as it was only $50 more but well.....

Cheers
SS

 

I think so - you can try. Looks pretty easy to install.
The part number is in the image below.

 

The easiest way (and cheapest) is to get a mini bluetooth dongle. I got one for my wifes Compaq.
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=4214435&CatId=906

 

Ironically, I ordered the exact same notebook on the exact same day. I can't go and get the discount because I had SOOO MUCH trouble ordering this thing, that I don't want to mess it up. The customer service people were nice but clueless to their own procedures.

I'll be curious to know if yours ships on time. My partner ordered the same notebook and it took over 3 weeks to get to him. He ended up getting all kinds of gift cards and discounts (about $200 worth) by complaining repeatedly every day it was late.

 

Badwolf

That will be perfect. I like how the dongle sticks out just a bit so it's not that visible.

Thanks again!
SS

 

With the 30% off, I couldn't resist:

HP HDX18t Premium Series customizable Notebook PC
• Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium with Service Pack 1 (64-bit)
• Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Duo Processor T9600 (2.80GHz)
• $100 OFF!! 8GB DDR3 System Memory (2 Dimm) - For 1GB Nvidia GeForce GT 130M
• 640GB 7200RPM SATA Dual Hard Drive (320GB x 2) with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
• 1GB Nvidia GeForce GT 130M - For DDR3 Memory
• 18.4" diagonal High Definition HP Ultra BrightView Infinity Display (1920x1080p)
• Blu-Ray +/-R/RW with SuperMulti
• Webcam + Fingerprint Reader with HP Imprint Finish (Fluid)
• Intel Next-Gen Wireless-N Mini-card with Bluetooth
• 50% OFF!! HP Integrated HDTV Hybrid Tuner
• Full Size Backlit Keyboard
• 8 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
• $10 OFF!! System Recovery DVD with Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium (64-bit)
• No Productivity Software
• HP Home & Home Office Store in-box envelope
1 $2,030.69
3-year HP Total One Extended Service Plan with Accidental Damage Protection, Next Business Day Exchange $399

Probably overkill on the RAM and Video card, but oh well.

 

just wondering for not choosing q9000??

 

Lol, Yes, they told me the exact same thing about crediting the account after is ships. I didn't really care as long as they didn't touch my build date

 

That is so funny we ordered the same laptop, Great Minds Think Alike

If you are concerned about them messing up your order, I would wait for them to ship your laptop then call while it is in transit. It took around 30 minutes ( with a 15 min hold while the CSR talked to her supervisor ), but they really shouldn't do more to your order than apply the credit that is owed to you. I am putting my saved hundreds towards a fast SSD drive.

Thanks for the tip, I will definitely start asking for discounts if April 17th rolls around and I don't see any shipping information.

 

I may have been under the mistaken impression that the 2.8 dual core was "better" or not much different than the 2.0 quad core. I may have goofed. The quad was cheaper, too. I guess HP won't let me change the order, huh?

 

Cool, thanks man.

I am calling today to change my coupon from the $250 to the $500 so that I get more back.

 

Nope. Onces its placed, the build command gets sent to China. You can however, cancel the order and start again.

 

So, I know that this debate has raged on, but would you recommend that Quad Core 2 ghz system over the 2.8 Core 2 Duo? I don't do 3D rendering, but I'll probably get a High Def camcorder and will want to create Blu Ray discs with it. I've read that those Quad Cores, even the slower clocked ones, are much better for such applications. I'm not a gamer. I would eventually like to get and learn CS4 and/or Lightroom. I suppose that I wouldn't notice a performance difference in everyday web surfing, home finance apps, etc?

I've googled info on the debate, but most of what I've read is a couple of years old.

 

Can't help you there as I have the HDX16 with only core 2 duo. Good luck tho.

 

arggggh!!!!

I upgraded (??) to Windows 7 and now
I'm trying to get my audio out over hdmi.

I've got my 5.1 surround all set up and my denon receiver is waiting for a signal.

but....

under playback devices I see...

NVIDIA HDMI Output
NVIDIA HIGH Defintion Audio
Not plugged in

and the device is grayed out.

Before I rebuild my machine back to vista x64 has anyone managed to run audio over hdmi successfully with the hdx

a) In Windows 7 beta ?
b) In Vista x64?

and if yes to either what magic did you perform to do so?

 

Ok, I cancelled my Core 2 duo order and got the Core 2 Quad 2.53 QX9300. After dropping the extended warranty, the price was almost the same. Cool. Love that 30% discount!

 

I have just ordered a Q9100 to replace my P8400. I should receive it a week or two and after installing it, I will ceirtanly share pictures from the procedure with you.

 

Great! I'd like to look at upgrading the CPU at some point too, so a step-by-step with pics would be amazing!

Thanks!

 

I will try my best!

 

Asus has a back pack for its W90VpX1 lap top, any one know where i could get one , its best ive seen for an 18 inch laptop

 

I was about to say, "A 28 inch laptop?" but you already edited it.

 

i could not post a pic the asus W90 bag can bee seen at cnet laptop reviews thanks , asus not so popular in toronto,, but i want this bag for my HDX 18
http://www.hphdx.net/Forum/tabid/55/forumid/2/postid/144/scope/posts/Default.aspx

 

Just an FYI for those wanting to purchase soon, I noticed there is a $500 HP coupon out there for the HDX t18. Configure as always and use code NB4327. I haven't pulled the trigger yet on this rig. But I am very cheap and check prices constantly. This is a bigger discount than the $250 off the other week. Though I'm not sure it equals the 30% off coupon as I've never priced one out before with 30% off. The one I priced was 27% according to the site. No matter, this is the best discount I've seen in the last month plus. And I check about every 3rd day. I believe you can purchase the base system for $999.
P

 

The 30% is a better deal if you spend past $1200.

 

Found 30% coupon. NB6528. Good luck to all future owners!!
P
PS. This IS better than the previous coupon I mentioned, but not by much.

 

Anyone know if there is a converter to make the HDX18t expansion port (EPIII) work with the expansion port II? I've got an xb2000 that I'd still like to be able to use with my new laptop once it arrives.

I've seen an adapter online, but from the pics it seems to be a male-to-male connector where I need a female-to-male one.

 

Does anyone currently have the 18t with the new graphics chips/hardware?

oes it make the Bluray movies and overall picture quality of the laptop noticeably better?

 

Can somebody post their FED EX Tracking from their HDX18?

Mine just arrived in Alaska Thursday the 16th at around 12 noon, and I am wondering why I have an Estimated delievey date of Friday the 24th!

Also, does anybody know how the customs thing works? I would assume that my laptop has already dealt w/ that since it's officially in the states.

Also, I am in Michigan.

 

Heres mine:

Service type
International Economy Distribution - Indirect Signature Required

Weight
12.0 lbs/5.4 kg

Delivered to
Receptionist/Front Desk

Reference
CE02591422

Clearance detail
Status
Pieces
Date/Time
Status

Shipment Travel History
Help
Select time zone:
Others:
Select time format:
12H
|
24H


All shipment travel activity is displayed in local time for the location
To display the shipment travel activity in local time of the scan, please select "Local Scan Time" time zone option.
No entries found
Date/Time
Activity
Location
Details
Apr 6, 2009 11:33 AM
Delivered
CHARLOTTE, NC
Apr 6, 2009 7:32 AM
On FedEx vehicle for delivery
CHARLOTTE, NC
Apr 6, 2009 7:01 AM
At local FedEx facility
CHARLOTTE, NC
Apr 4, 2009 6:46 AM
At dest sort facility
CHARLOTTE, NC
Apr 4, 2009 4:16 AM
Departed FedEx location
MEMPHIS, TN
Apr 3, 2009 4:07 PM
In transit
MEMPHIS, TN
Apr 3, 2009 11:45 AM
Arrived at FedEx location
MEMPHIS, TN
Apr 3, 2009 3:44 AM
Departed FedEx location
INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Apr 3, 2009 1:54 AM
Int'l shipment release
INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Apr 3, 2009 12:00 AM
Arrived at FedEx location
INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Apr 2, 2009 4:40 PM
Departed FedEx location
OAKLAND, CA
Apr 2, 2009 10:01 PM
Picked up
SHANGHAI CN
Package received after FedEx cutoff
Apr 2, 2009 2:41 PM
In transit
SHANGHAI CN

Although it came to Oakland CA first, it didn't get international release until Indianapolis. Mine also said estimated deliver April 10th but as you can see it was 4 days early. I wouldn't worry about it.

 

You rock optimustarzan! You are a wealth of knowledge!! Hope to see you helping out over at HPHDX.net too! We are having a little problem w/ the site, but nothing too major and it should be fixed rather soon I believe.

That is great news man. I just ordered the Logitech Z-2300's and and all in in Printer and they shipped from Memphis too. They took 2 or three days. So I know once my laptop gets there, it should be 2 to 3 days again!!

I just need to know what day it will come so I know to stay home from college since it has to be signed for! uugghhh

 

hey all, managed to read maybe last 70 pages of this thread before deciding between my 2 options...and found out a few things i was looking for such as whether the GPU is upgradeable(no) but between the MSI GT725 and the HDX18T cant make up my mind...i know the MSI blows this HP out of the water graphics wise but im not a hardcore gamer(heck im going from a dv9608 with integrated graphics .... but the info ive found out about the 9600 and the 130m is they are pretty much the same the 130m clocked a bit faster?...does the 1gb make much a diff..from the few times i saw mentioned in this thread didnt seem like it does but also would be getting the ddr3 ram with the 130 since i wont be able to upgrade the ram to ddr3 later if i get the ddr2 mobo from hp...the games i do play are rts games such a company of heroes, the warcraft series and world in conflict etc...not much of a shooter fan so dont even care to go for insane stuff like crysis...so would the 130m be more then sufficient for my use on high settings..this is where the MSI gets points but ive read its got a problem with bleed at the bottom of screen...does the HP screen have any bleed issues?...also the MSI display is pretty dim and from what ive seen here the display on the HP is impressive because while im not a heavy gamer needing to play crazy high FPS games the reason ive been using DTR laptops is for movie watching so the display is imp to me. cost wise the both will be same after adding the educational discount to the current 500 off the HDX. thanks for any info, this thread was just too much to read from page one

 

I am sure the HDX18 will be cheaper once you add one of these coupons from here..

http://www.techbargains.com/vendor_detail.cfm/296/HP-coupon-code

Sounds like you would be fine w/ the 512 GPU on the HDX18t. I've read nothing but great reviews about the screen on the HDX. It's bright and play blue-ray in 1080p like the Plasma or LCD you have in your living room. Well one negative is that it's glossy, so you can see reflections, but it seems people get used to it and it doesn't bother them after awhile.

I just ordered mine and it should be here by next Friday! I'd go w/ the HDX18, well I did that is!!