*HP HDX18 Owners Lounge*

What software are you using to determine your CPU and GPU temperture. I know several have been mentioned before but is there something that is free that can be recommended for by 64 bit HDX 18 Vista system.

Thanks

--Rocco--

 

Does the 500GB come with ProtectSmart for the hard drive? It doesn't say so...


FREE Upgrade to 500GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive from 320GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive
320GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
500GB 7200RPM SATA Dual Hard Drive (250GB x 2) with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
640GB 7200RPM SATA Dual Hard Drive (320GB x 2) with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
1TB 7200RPM SATA Dual Hard Drive (500GB x 2) with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
660GB 5400RPM SATA Dual Hard Drive (Solid State Drive 160GB + 500GB 5400RPM)

 

It doesn't look like it, but if you get the dual-250GB (250GB x 2) hard drive option, it does. Both are a free upgrade.

 

HERE ya go.

 

Where could I buy/get this heatsink then? Does that QX9300 at the HP Store ship with it? I've tried calling them and they're "transferred" me about 6 times for about 30 minutes until some guy messed up transferring me and gave me a dead line.

 

I have a slightly different question. I have the internal TV tuner in my hdx18. When we go RV camping, I want to use the computer as a TV screen, using a satellite signal. So, Satellite to Dish Receiver to HDMI cable to HDX18 HDMI port. Doesn't seem to work. Is this a one-way port? Am I not setting the tv tuner up correctly? Bypass the tuner completely an do something else?

Any advice would be welcome

 

You can't do that. HDMI is an output only.

You should have got a Coaxial connector cable along w/ your HDTV Antenna with your laptop.

You need to go from the Dish Reciever's Coaxial Output to the Coaxial Adapater that came w/ the HDX into the TV Tuner Slot next to the Power Cable Input.

This works. I use Dish too. Then just run Windows Media Center or HP MediaSmart.

I personally like WMC the best.

 

Don't upgrade the BIOS unless you are having problems. If you didn't get DDR3 in the first place you can't switch to it. They are physically different.

 

Thinking of buying one tonight..... is the screen LED backlit? Thanks

 

I have the Coaxial connector that goes to the laptop. On the 622 HD receiver, there is no coaxial output. It's either componet, s-video, or HDMI. Near as I can tell, none of those choices will connect to any input I have.

 

Oh man, that sucks. Pretty sure you'll need to convert that somehow.

The TV Tuner is the only input you have.

 

I don't know the answer to that, but man, the screen is gorgeous, and viewing from different angles doesn't seem to cause any real falloff in color. I'm so impressed with this screen.

 

I'm pretty sure it's a Dual-Lit LCD.

Dimensions 17.17(W)x11.26"(D)x1.33 (min H)/1.72(max H) - w/ Dual Lamp

Look under the Specs.

 

No, but it is backlit uses 2 traditional lamps that provide very rich color.

 

Hey guys, I just wanted to pass along some new info on a case for the HDX18. I originally went with a Tom Bihn "Braincell" and he just recently added a size that was designed for our laptops, the 2XXLT. He exchanged the one I originally bought (it bowed out a bit on the sides, see my previous posts on this thread for pics) and it fits perfectly. I highly recommend this protective case for those who want a way to carry it around safely.

 

I was wondering if my new computer will be able to handle this new processor (QX9300). The part # of the heat sink I need to get is 512184-001. I am wondering if my mobo can handle this? I heard some talk that some mobo's can't handle it (processor). Can you check my specs so that you can verify whether or not the QX9300 + the heatsink in my brand new laptop will work? Thanks. Check http://forum.notebookreview.com/show...00221&page=504 to get an idea of what I'm talking about.

The 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)
• • 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

 

I purchased my HDX 18t about 2 months ago. On HP driver downloads page, there're three (3) series for 18t: X18T-1000 CTO, X18T-1100 CTO and X18T-1200 CTO. How do I know which series my 18t is? Thanks in advance.

 

I'd read earlier in a thread, can't remember if it was this one, or the one on hphdx (dot) net, that it is NOT possible to switch out the processor of the HDX 18t when purchased at a lower config, for the highest Quad core, b/c the mobo used is a different board, and that swapping out the heatsink for the appropriate one would not be sufficient. If I find the posts on this subject, I'll link it later. FYI- your link didn't open.

 

Click Start>Help & Support>System Information.

Enter the Product Number shown into the HP Support website.

 

Rageman,

Thank you for the Temperture programs. I'll be loading up tonight.

--Rocco--

 

No problem. Thank you for your concern though. I just canceled my old order/parts and ordered a new laptop (HDX18T) customized WITH the QX9300

 

C'mon Baby!


Arrived at FedEx locationANCHORAGE, AK
Estimated delivery Aug 11, 2009 by 4:30 PM

 

JK, I take it you took advantage of the 30% off? NICE!!!!

What's your build?

 

I just ordered my HDX18t, and I can't wait for it to get here. The estimated build date is August 12. My build is:

Core Duo Processor T9900 3.06ghz 6mb L2 cache, 1066MHz FSB
8GB DDR3 System Memory
640GB 7200RPM SATA Dual Hard Drive (320x2)
1GB Nividia GeForce GT 130M
Next-Gen Wireless-N Mini-Card with Bluetooth
Blu-Ray ROM with SuperMulti DVD+/-R/RW Double Layer
Full size backlit keyboard
FREE upgrade to 3-year Norton Internet Security

The best part is that I used the 30% off coupon and saved $789.60!! The base price was $2,631.00 and I got it for $1,842.39! I wouldn't have gotten the 8GB Memory without the coupon, and I wasn't sure about getting the T9900 3.06 Processor, but the coupon made it really easy to decide.

 

I hope that coupon is still valid when I order tomorrow

I'm looking to go w/ a more or less base configuration...
Does anyone see a problem w/ these specs or reason why it might be smarter for me to bump up?

Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Duo Processor P8700
4GB DDR2 System Memory (2 Dimm)
512MB NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT graphics
500GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive
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 with Bluetooth
HP Integrated HDTV Hybrid Tuner

~$1100 w/ coupon

TIA

 

It depends what you are going to be doing with it. I am by no means an expert, but if you are going to do a lot of gaming or video editing, or anything like that you may want to bump it up.

I suggest upgrading to the P8800 2.66 GHz Processor. It affects almost anything you are going to do, and even if you don't need it now it will just make the computer stay technologically up to date longer. I think its only a $50 upgrade which would be even less with the coupon.

If you are going to do a lot of gaming or something similar then you might consider upgrading the Graphics card as well.

If you are not going to do anything serious with it and just want it for basic things, then your set up should be fine, but I would still upgrade the Processor if I were you. But like I said I am not an expert so I may not be the best person to answer your question.

EDIT: Also I think there is no extra cost to get the 500GB Dual Hard Drive (250GBx2) so you should get that. The dual hard drive is just better and it has HP ProtectSmart on it.

 

It's my understanding that the processor upgrade from the P8700 to the P8800, while faster on paper, is likely to have no noticeable real-world difference/improvement that I'll be able to perceive. Maybe if I bumped up to the Quad, but I've really no plans for that right now. The upgrade I'm contemplating is the better vid card, but I still can't decide on that. Thanks for your feedback. I really appreciate it.

ETA:
Regarding the single vs dual drives- the single 500GB free upgrade has this description:
FREE Upgrade to 500GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive from 320GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive
HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection automatically detects if your notebook has been dropped, and while on its brief journey to the floor, automatically locks your hard drive to help prevent the loss of your files and media library. An LED provides status and lets the user know when the HP ProtectSmart has activated. FEATURES: 500GB, 7200 RPM speed. DISCLAIMERS: (1GB = 1 billion bytes. Actual formatted capacity is less. Up to 12GB of the hard drive is reserved for the system recovery software.)

Looks like it does have ProtectSmart as well. I know going w/ the dual drives is probably a faster option, but I wonder about the heat and power consumption. If anyone has any favorable comments addressing those concerns about the dual HDDs, then maybe I'll go this route instead.

 

I second that advice to upgrade that processor whatever you are going to do with that laptop.

 

Yeah I did the 30% off coupon though I was worried it would be expired because too many people used it (1800 is limit).

The Specs:
HP HDX18t Premium Series customizable Notebook PC

• • Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium with Service Pack 1 (64-bit)
• • Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Extreme Mobile Processor QX9300 (2.53Ghz, 12MB L2 Cache, 1066MHz FSB)
• • 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 ship date: "Your customized HP HDX18t Premium Series customizable Notebook PC will be
  built by August 13, 2009" -> I selected expedite shipping (2 days)
  

 

^What was your end price, jkxs?

 

I'd go with the 2 hdds because it gets you the 2nd hard drive caddy and cable, you can back up to the 2nd drive without taking additional hardware until you choose to copy the backup to an external drive later and you may want to replace both hdds to ssds at some time in the future.

 

$2,653.99 -> $1,857.79
W/ Tax ($92.89) + shipping ($39.00)

 

thanks for those comments....ill just get on an enjoy my new toy....

 

I may be wrong, but I think that if you get a single hard drive, HP builds the HDX without the bay for the second drive, i.e, you can't add a second internal drive later.

 

Looks like I'm going with the dual drives and the 'upgraded' gpu.
ETA:

Thanks for everyone's input. Here's what I ended up with:

HP HDX18t Premium Series 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)
• 4GB DDR3 System Memory (2 Dimm) - For 1GB Nvidia GeForce GT 130M
• 500GB 7200RPM SATA Dual Hard Drive (250GB 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)
• 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 with Bluetooth
• HP Integrated HDTV Hybrid Tuner

Coupon knocked off $505.50

Hope it arrives soon, and I hope I'll have made the right choice.

 

I am glad the coupon still worked for you, I am surprised it hasn't been used up yet. I still can't really believe how good a deal it is. Saving $500 is great, I saved almost $800 which is ridiculous. You could get another stock laptop for that much.

 

Thanks, Thelos. I hope your laptop will ship soon. That $500 is w/o the $250 instant rebate- can you imagine if that stacked? Yeah, $500 will land a netbook or a stock notebook easy. I hope I'll be happy with it.

 

While I agree that the 30% off coupon does produce better than normal savings, don't get too hyped up on thinking you saved $800. Keep in mind that HP always has some sort of instant rebate on their notebooks, plus always have free upgrades of hardware. Like Dell, their "list price" is artificial. No one ever buys anything at that price. I've seen "fantastic" dollar savings on Dell notebooks, but if you look closely, they've jacked up the price of the base unit to some ungodly price, then subtracted off a huge "discount", and in the end, there is some savings, but not what you think. Buyer beware. Dell and HP have revolving sales every week. Not much really changes after all is said and done. I've seen Dell RAISE their prices during sales, just to offset the savings.

Now, if you really are in the market for a high-end system, then the percentage off deals are the best, otherwise dollar off deals are best for low-mid range configs.

 

Totally agree w/ your statement, lancorp. There's always some incentive/upgrade being offered, but now was a good time to buy for me personally, since I also got charged less tax on account of my state's tax holiday. If I had been willing to spend more, I would have saved more on the configuration. Still, I hope I made a good buy.

 

I think the 30% coupon is by far the best discount, especially if you wanted the high-end upgrades (QX9300, 8GB RAM, etc.) since generally, those are too expensive to consider normally. Plus, the 30% with some decent free hardware upgrades...all make for a decent time to get that HDX 18t you always wanted!!

Enjoy.

 

I hope to God that this statement is not true because I was hoping to add maybe a SSD to my laptop after I got it shipped ( I only put one 500GB 7200 RPM hard drive)

 

It is true. The fact is, if you order a one drive HDX18t, then the 2nd bay is there, but it's missing the caddy and the needed connector/cable assy to connect it.

For a SSD, you don't need a caddy, really, since there are no moving parts all you need is some double-sided foam tape to secure the SSD in the bay. BUT, you still need that pesky cable/connector assy. You can buy a 3rd party version at Newmodeus for $40.

 

Has anyone tried a Thermapak cooler? With the HDX18t?

 

Hello, all!
I'm rather interested in buying an HDX18T-1180US. Upon configuring on HP's site, they've given me only two choices for graphics cards. The GeForce 9600M GT and the GeForce GT 130M. I simply cannot be satisfied with this, at all. So my question is this. Can I possibly put in a different graphics card? I want to know if it's possible. The specs I will be getting with this planned buy are as follow:

Processor: Intel Core2 Quad Q9000
Memory: 4GB DDR3
Hardrive: 500GB 7200RPM
Graphics Card: Nvidia GeForce GT 130M
And you are familar with the other things, I'm sure.

I want to know if I could possibly put in the following:
Nvidia GeForce 9800M GTS
Nvidia GeForce GTX 280M
Nvidia GeForce 8800M GTX SLI

Thank you, greatly. I'm sorry if this seems like an annoying questions. I've never owned a laptop before, but I've owned many Desktops and I know my way around them. I just can not find any correct information anywhere. So I figured I'd ask people who own this and have probably modded it to their liking.

 

GPU is non upgradable. It's part of the motherboard.

 

As I've feared. Thank you.

 

Well, here's the configuration I've come up with:
http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p251/SkriblZz/mymodel.jpg

Does that look satisfactory? From your experiences, I'd like to know the capabilities of that. And of course I will use Crysis or GTA4 as a benchmarker. How would this laptop, with those configurations, fare against those two?

 

Yes - I discovered this to my regret after receiving mine. Had to buy the connector and bay from newmodeus for $40.

 

I just wanna thank TechnoFile cause I ordered w/ the 2 drives after reading his(?) earlier post http://forum.notebookreview.com/showpost.php?p=5174562&postcount=6332 .

Also, quick question: I noticed quite a few configs w/ backlit keyboards... any reason, besides aesthetics, to choose that option?

 

Great laptop! Totally get it, but maybe switch the Quad to a Dual core?
I don't know about Crysis or GTA4 on Enthusiast settings but I'm sure it'll be more than enough for it.

I just got the backlit keyboard because it looked cool haha