*HP HDX18 Owners Lounge*

Hey guys, just purchased this notebook, waiting for it to arrive in the next couple days.

I've read some reviews online that screen glare can possibly be an issue with this laptop. Would it be advisable to get a anti-glare or privacy screen?

If so any recommendations?

Thanks.

 

Don't know about the anti-glare screen, but:

• Don't have a bright open window right behind you.
• Use a bright, light-colored screen background or desktop image (like HP's)
• Adjust the angle of the screen when you shift position.

You pretty much just get used to/forget about this issue, except when you see a post like this!

 

Yes - except that it regularly gets misplaced and is just one more thing to carry around - no problem when heading out, but not when moving from the office to living room etc. Will probably just purchase the anti-glare protector and kill two birds with one stone. Hopefully it doesn't bring the brightness and gamut down too much.

 

I should probably emphasize that my "probably look at the XPS 16" is simply that I would look closer at the other options again if I could do it again. Spec-wise my HDX was and still is by far the best deal. I am very disappointed in some of the mentioned shortcomings however, and in particular, the fact that I feel like I have to baby it more than I would otherwise (as opposed to just taking decent care of it). In other words, having to make sure I place something between the screen and keyboard everytime I close the lid is something that just doesn't jive (and especially now that I have scratches that it's already too late to do anything about).

 

Turns out this is likely my external drive acting up.

 

Ordered mine yesterday.....can't wait to try it out. This will be my main DJ rig so It has to be stable.

 

Why would you order it now when in about 1-2 weeks, it'll be on huge sales?

 

Won't matter, as long as he calls HP within 21 days from purchase w/ the coupon codes (they have to still be active) HP will give him the difference.

This is what I did, and they put the money back on my credit card/bank account.

 

Because I'm a DJ and needed to order it now for a gig on the 22nd. If I woulda waited it may not have made the date. Didn't wasnt to take a chance, besides.... what rageman said!

 

How sure are we that will happen in that time frame? I mean I have Natalie Portman here with me to keep me company but I'd still like to have the laptop...

 

Hey HDX18 owners,

I created a dedicated driver resource thread for the HDX18 series. Please let me know if I need to add, modify, or fix anything in the thread, as I am not currently an actual owner of this notebook series. Thanks!

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=404164

 

Hi folks,

though I'd post an update on some of the issues I've had with the 18 after having it for a few weeks now.

Its still overall a good machine and well priced for the specs. The issues I've had:

- the volume/bass/treble thing - still pops up and goes haywire now and again, even after a BIOS update. Not happening too often though (maybe once a week at most) so not a biggie at the moment. I've never had the widely-reported wifi problem, though I've hardly used it.

- what's people's views on the sound card - has there ever been any issues with it? I noticed one of my mp3's was distorting yesterday - tried it through the speakers, through headphones and through external speakers and it just didnt sound right. Kind of sounded like a bass distortion but it can't have been as it was the same when the bass setting was up/down and regardless of the output (headfone/subwoofer etc) and volume. I tried playing the original cd and it was the same. Tried the same mp3/cd on another system and the distortion wasnt there. I did try increasing one of the audio settings which seemed to help a little (can't remember which one now as I'm not on the hdx, but it was something to do with shared audio - the default was "CD quality" which I increased. It was some playback as opposed to a rip setting, I can find it if need be). Still confused on this one so wondered what other people though of the sound card. I need to listen to some more tunes to do some more tests, most others have sounded ok to be fair though.

- I've tried to keep the system clean (runnng decrapifier, not installing too much software or anything, revo-uninstalling anything I dont need etc) and its still booting/running reasonably quickly, but a fair bit slower than when new which surprised me given the specs. The main application problem I've had has been Firefox (now v3.5) which crashes frequently.

-(edit) oh and I have has some issues with using the esate interface for my extrnal hdd - problems with seeing the drive etc..can't be sure if this is an issue with the notebook itself yet though.

The build quality on mine has been ok by the way.

Cheers, Huw.

 

Windows 7 has a basic screen calibration tool in the control panel under Display, then select calibrate color.

 

How exactly do you go about doing that? I am going to order my hp hdx 18 laptop soon (like in a couple of days so it will be ready for college) and I don't know how to get money back after you get your laptop? Do they send coupons to you and you call them or something? I am really confused of how this process works and would love some clarification. Thank you!

 

Okay, so what you do is after you order it, keep checking daily for new coupons to come out. For example, if 2 weeks after you order it a 30% coupon comes out, call HP andd tell them to price match it.

Just remember to call them as soon as a good coupon comes out, because they don't last long (couple of days sometimes). Also, remember that the coupon can't be expired in order for them to credit your account.

HERE are links w/ sites that you can find coupons on.

Oh, and they will just put the difference on your credit card or bank account. Which ever method you used to buy the HDX18.

 

Have the same problem. Find any solutions yet?

 

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showpost.php?p=4566446&postcount=4374

 

In case anyone was interested in upgrading to QX9300, HP parts store has it for $502

http://h20141.www2.hp.com/hpparts/C...6E0E0A2739C4&NotBulk=&NotFound=&NotOrderable=

 

For those interested, I did come across a LCD Anti-Scratch Protector for the HDX18 screen. It's packaged w/ a Keyboard Protector as well.

$24.99 w/ free shipping - eBay.

I have personally not purchased this yet. Although I probably will eventually.

LINK






Features:

100% custom-tailored for all HP HDX18 laptop series;
Reusable with no residue during removal
Durable&heat resistant material

* Easy Application：
Clean surface of your laptop cover.
Remove adhesive backing from the Shielder.
Align and position on top of laptop cover and press down.
* Clearer process：
This improves the images on the screen and make them clearer in appearance.This has no difference if used inside a building or on an outside location.
It is very safe to use and has no adverse affect whatsoever on your equipment.
This suitable for solid and flexible touch screens.
* PET process layer：
Anti-ultraviolet radiation
99.5% transparency
The high quality durable PET raw material has the anti-heavy weather function to cause it not to be able to haave the chemical change.
* Static firmly layer：
It can be removed and reused without any adhesive.
It is easy to eliminates the bubble
Special coating adapting to any weather of the external world is changed and is avoids it any physics or metamorphosis happened.
No adhesive is required the protector uses statis as a fixing agent.
At the same time the base map level may absorb the adsorption on the screen small particle
* Package Include:
1 x screen protector
1 x Cleaning Cloth

 

Just wondering how much memory slots does HDX18 have - 2 or 3? and will it take theoretically up to 12gb of memory?

 

Two slots.

I've got 8 gigs in mine.

 

This might be interesting to others who may want to try a Core 2 Extreme in their notebook. I'll post this in the Notebook and Tech Bargains section as well. +rep

 

Then how it's possible to install 6gb memory as it being offered in HP memory upgrade options?
I'm hardly considering to purchase this notebook on August or September and i'm quite tore between q9000 and q9100 option as well as 4gb against 8gb DDR3 memory. I'm tending to order it with q9100 processor and 4gb memory that will be replaced by higher option in the future when the prices on ddr3 will drop.
I'll appreciate your thoughts regarding my doubts, guys!

 

Can you help me with that link? It just redirects me to a part finder thing. Do you know the part # or anything?
Nevermind I visited Justin's thread and the part number is 507946-001.

 

A 4 and a 2.

 

4 + 2 ?

I got the 8 gigs of RAM from Provantage for 600-something... make sure to compare them to NewEgg and Crucial's website. Provantage is often the cheapest even though they ship to California by Pony Express...

 

Can't be, they have to match no? so It would be 3+3 for 6GB or 4+4 for 8 GB.
I don't think a 4+2 is a viable option...

@ apropo73.
Also depends on the Mobo and Video card because of the DDR3 / DDR2 factor. 1 of the options for the VC is strictly a DDR3 only option. So be careful when ordering the ram.

 

the ram doesn't HAVE to match, but I believe it's more efficient (or somehow 'better') if it does.

 

Yeah, wasn't 100% sure . But I believe if you do go the different RAM route there are bios settings you'd have to adjust to make em match. i.e. CAS, Volts etc. which is why it's probably 'better' to match as this would not be an 'efficient' option.
Thanx for the ejumication though

 

it is 2 + 4, u cannot get odd numbered ram (except for 1)

 

and my ejumication continues! Thanx..

SO 2+4 is correct just not 'efficient'? Good thing I went for the 8gb option!

 

Well, I'm sure it's better than 4 (2+2). As efficient as 8, no.

 

Does the HDX18T even need a screen protector? Do the keyboards scratch against the screen?

Also, anyone get dust in the infinity display yet? At least in the HDX18T models? Thanks.

 

Well yeah, people have had issues w/ the keys scratching the screen. You should be able to get away w/ using the protector that comes w/ the HDX.

I just put that other screen protector on here because a lot of people had been asking where they could find one. Plus it'd be nice to have one that you put on and don't have to worry about carrying around extra.

The only issue I could think of w/ the one I linked to would it be covering the Microphones that are built into the screen. This could be an issue for those that video conference.

I haven't had dust in mine. I've read of that, but the last I remember it seems as if that was issue w/ older models of the HDX18. Not ones ordered in the last 6 months or so.

Of course I could be wrong.

 

I heard of a few people stating minor screen scratches, but not an abundant amount. I bought my HDX18 a month ago and I don't use any screen protector and my screen is still perfect. The keys don't touch or mark the screen in any way.

As for dust inside the Infinity display, that was something I read about for the older dv5t models, but not the HDX series. Looking at my screen now I don't believe dust could ever get behind the display, it's airtight.

 

Hello

I aspects of the problem in the Lap Top, working an hour or half an hour or more and then stop

And sometimes I run the sound system is non-existent

When the device does not work the first time, but remained closed, and when my own again

The latter point

Operation shows me I have a light orange three times and then close the device

For information, there was no heat in the final

CPU temperature of 36C to 46C

GPU temperature of 45C to 53C

I wonder why.

my labtop hdx18-1070ee

 

Hello everyone, I've just got myself a HDX 18t 1300 series with the Core 2 Quad 2.0 Ghz, 6 GB RAM (4+2), 1TB (2 x 500GB), and in the last 2 weeks of ownerships, I've been blown away by 2 things:

1. the sheer performance of this machine. It's incredibly good
2. the rubbish build quality -- the silver panel on the left side framing the USB/eSATA/HDMI port has popped outward by about 1 mm since the day I picked this up. This is a replacement that I got after returning the first one for exactly the same problem. Are any of you seeing the same problem on your machines? Or am I just unlucky enough to get 2 with the exact same problem?

Any advice on the 2nd issue above would be much appreciated.

I'm also thinking of upgrading the RAM to 8GB, having read that in order for a 64-bit processor to run most effectively, both pieces of RAM need to be of the same capacity and speed. As such, does anyone know of an online store where I can buy a compatible 4GB RAM module for my notebook?

 

What do you think, guys, is it worth to spend another 500 bucks for q9100 upgrade? Will i feel REAL difference between q9000 and q9100?
Thanks in advance!

 

hey peeps, am now the proud owner of an HDX-18 1010EA,
"250GB x 2 HDD, P8400 blah blah....its the sexiest lappy i ever seen.

Primarily brought it to use for DVB-S2 receiption, as my HPG7095EM didnt have a decent gfx card, and handled HD receiption just about ok...

First thing did was checked all worked...yep fine there so factory backup disks made, imaged the C and recovery partitions....trashed it and now running the Windows 7 RC from microsft website...

Thanks to all you guys here for the useful information and the links to the latest drivers which worked fine, apart from the DVB-T tuner..had to get another one....(my new lappy also came with an express DVB-T and plug in aerial!!) not tried that yes but the internal one works fine.

Had a quick connect of my Tevii S650.....and progdvb....works greaaat...

need to find a converter for the inbuild TV tuner so that can hook up to a normal sized coax cable! ... am looking into the ram upgrage....but could someone please explain if going to DDR3 would be more beneficial..AND..can one just swap from DDR2 to DDR3 or are there hidden dipswitches or somefink to alter too if the MBoard doesnt auto use the DDR3??

My Bios is F03 from 01/09/2008 or 09/01/2008?? all is working shud i flash to the newest one?

thanks guys ... you are all great....been wonderul reading here.

got a nice Logitech Bloothooth mouse on order and a nice 17-19 inch briefcase off ehayy for 23 quid ....

edit...also reading with interest on the SSD stuff....and am now looking into the express card slot memory and drive SSD's to use for readyboost for a tad more perfomance??

 

Everyone! There is a new 30% Coupon for the HDX18T!!! The code is "NBW58948" (It is NOT stackable with the $250 instant rebate coupon). I just bought my HDX18T and am planning to also order the QX9300 from the HP Parts Store! My current Specs:

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 P8700 (2.53 GHz, 3 MB L2 Cache, 1066MHz FSB) <- Going to be replaced with half priced QX9300!
• 4GB DDR3 System Memory (2 Dimm) - For 1GB Nvidia GeForce GT 130M
• FREE Upgrade to 500GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive from 320GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive
• 1GB Nvidia GeForce GT 130M - For DDR3 Memory
• 18.4" diagonal High Definition HP Ultra BrightView Infinity Display (1920x1080p)
• Lightscribe Blu-Ray ROM with SuperMulti DVD+/-R/RW Double Layer
• Webcam + Fingerprint Reader with HP Imprint Finish (Fluid)
• Intel Next-Gen Wireless-N Mini-card
• No TV Tuner w/remote control
• Full Size Backlit Keyboard
• 8 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
• System Recovery DVD with Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium (64-bit)
• No Productivity Software
• HP Home & Home Office Store in-box envelope
Estimated build date: August 11, 2009 NK625AV

Normal Price was $1,653.99 (without the $250 instant) and with the rebate it turned out to $1,157.79!

Please comment! Also have fun with your rebates I know I was waiting for this!

 

Would I see any benefit upgrading my CPU to the QX9300 over the T9550 2.66GHz, 6MB, 1066MHz I already have, no gaming?

 

1st off let me say, THANK YOU JKXS! *REP*
My configuration came out to 3068.99. With my original coupons I was paying $2718 but with this one, $2148. All in all the final tally saved me an extra $598! (tax, ugggh)

The $600 Process?:

Well , I had to cancel my old order and place a new one in order to get it done. That is by far the most inefficient set of parameters for a simple rebate.

I called and got a rep who attempted (Unsuccessfully) to just get the difference returned to me.
The cancellation process takes anywhere from a few to 48hrs to complete,
After which He said there were 2 ways I can get the rebate done.
- Put a new order in now
- Wait for the cancellation to go through and then put in the order.

Well, if I do option one I'll have 2 charges on my CC (no biggie) and obviously if the latter then I may lose the coupon so I went ahead and placed another order.
Add to that, I need this by the 22nd. My original order was scheduled to be built on the 5th and this new one the 11th which is why I ordered early.

So, I was then transfered to a 2nd agent in order to cancel the order... um, ok. The agents were both nice and while they did speak english, they both had heavy accents but were somewhat clear and understandable with the 2nd agent being a little more.

I'm just hoping that it goes smoothly...It's just dumb that I have to lose my queue because of their inefficient way of crediting.
I'm assuming that but we'll wait and see......
but hey, to keep $600 in my pocket? I would *CENSORED*

 

I have mine configured in the cart right now, haven't purchased yet. Still deciding on a couple things. But Great coupon code, but doesn't the $250 instant rebate come standard? Can't find a way to remove it. Coupon won't work for me because of the rebate, but I also have a employee discount added.

 

It is standard but the coupon overtakes it because it is of greater value (since this one isn't stackable, you only get the one higher discount coupon). I have no idea why the coupon won't work for you, try buying it on the phone, they could maybe "force" it to accept the coupon.

EDIT: I am so sorry to say but the coupon is now invalid. It seems that 1,800 people already bought a laptop using that coupon :O
Lucky for me I found the coupon the second it came out by luck.

EDIT of My Previous Edit: I am glad to say I was wrong and the coupon is still valid!

 

Ah! Gotcha. Would've been nice, but I can't complain. My EPP discount takes off a good $160, coupled with the $250 instant rebate.

 

Just tried the coupon and it worked for me! (just a test, though...I'm not buying right now).

 

That is so weird! I tried it three times and it said invalid code. Sorry for the misguiding reppaken.

 

Worked for me when I plugged it in.
Not buying either...

 

Didn't I read on this forum that DIY Q9300 upgrade required different cooling system parts?

 

Yes, I believe the heatsink is different since the QX9300 has two, separate dual core chips on them, whereas a normal C2D chip has one. Therefore, the heatsink needs to be one with enough area to cover the larger die sizes of the QX9300.

Just google some images of a QX9300 and a normal T- or P- series chip and you'll see what I mean.

Could be a problem for those of you considering that cheap QX9300 at the HP Store. Wonder how much the heatpipe assy is?