*HP HDX18 Owners Lounge*

HDX AS A VMWARE (VIRTUALIZATION) HOST:

So I've got VMWARE up and running on Vista 64 Ultimate, and I'm starting to learn the little ins and outs of VMWare.

I have a lot of software development and related specialized tools installed on my system (my old system) so it usually takes me about 2 weeks of running the new side-by-side with the old until I can switch to the new laptop. And even then I will be discovering things I need to install for weeks after.

But this time it's different: Right now I'm in a full-screen XP VM of my (prior) Toshiba P100 system. Because of the killer specs of the HDX 18, the VM of my former XP system runs close to the same speed as it does on the 2 1/2-year old 2.1 mhz Core Duo Toshiba it came from.

I gave the VM 2 gigs of RAM.

One interesting thing about the quad core in the HP: You might remember I was planning to assign the affinity of the VM to one or two of the cpu's. However, when I did that it ran slower and so did everything back on the native Vista on the HDX.

Apparently, Vista can make best use of the cores when left to itself. In my experience so far, although it may be true that most applications don't use multiple-cores, Windows Vista 64 itself is pretty intelligent about dividing up the workload in real-time.

So I'm not locking anything down to any processor(s) at this time.

Now I just need to get the RAM up to 8 gigs...

PS: Earlier I had to do some remote server maintenance so I log into Vista 64 on the HDX, go to full screen on the XP Virtual Machine, and then use RDP to connect to the remote server, which is now full-screen inside the full-screen XP VM ! And it all works great and response is "snappy" - thanks to the HDX.

This is not just a home-entertainment system - among laptop/portable machines, it's a technician's dream.

 

Is this the Crucial RAM: 2x4gb 204-pin SODIMM DDR3 PC3-8500

http://www.crucial.com/store/partspecs.aspx?IMODULE=CT2KIT51264BC1067

 

That's it. You might want to buy it here.
http://www.priceguidenetwork.com/_search.php?page=1&q=CT2KIT51264BC1067
This is the cheapest place I could find it. I've bought memory from here before.

 

Hi vistabad, i have the same problem with the missed keys when i write fast on HDX18, have you found what is the problem? Is it the poor keyboard quality?

 

Nice. I plan on doing the same type of things once I get mine.

What Quad do you have?

 

I pulled the trigger on Friday the 13th...

* • Genuine Windows Vista Ultimate with Service Pack 1 (64-bit)
* • Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Quad Processor QX9300 (2.53Hz)
* • 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)
* • Blu-Ray +/-R/RW with SuperMulti
* • Webcam + Fingerprint Reader with HP Imprint Finish (Fluid)
* • Intel Next-Gen Wireless-N Mini-card with Bluetooth
* • HP Integrated HDTV Hybrid Tuner
* • Full Size Backlit Keyboard
* • 8 Cell Lithium Ion Battery

It set me back $3,325 but its been a long time coming. I've had the dreaded zd7000 series since May 2004. It did well but it finally died so the wait begins for March 25, 2009 when I my laptop arrives...Guess I'll need a bag to huh?

 

Nice one Typo86! I'm sure you'll be happy.

 

I too have found that Vista just hands off the load as needed.

However, Mediasmart does not like iTunes running...at all. it was the only time this machine has bogged down.

 

My bad, it appears that Apple has completely fubar'd another version of iTunes and then released it as an upgrade. Judging by the amount of complaints, this should get reolved soon.

 

Yes sir, absolutely...

 

Oh I never said I wouldnt get a back lit keyboard if I could rebuy my HDX. I am quite superficial and I would absolutely get it, even though my keyboard is absolutely visible in the dark right now without the back light.

Then again I'd also seriously reconsider picking up DDR3 RAM instead of DDR2, and the rest of my config as is, for about $500 cheaper than I bought it for. Qx9300 is like $500 cheaper now just 3 months later. Then again I also bought it with %30 off so its not as big a loss.

 

Well, I am not sure who else has one on order with the Back lit Keyboard. My order will be processed tomorrow and I should receive it next week. I will post pictures of it when I get it.

I still have been unable to find ANY pictures of the back lit keyboard.

 

Excellent!

 

Hey all, I've kinda a weird question that someone might know. I have an order due to be complete March 20th. Can an order be changed before I get it, like adding the backlit keyboard, because I called in and asked them if I could pay for faster shipping and they said I couldnt change my order now that its been placed, pretty lame hu? You would think that if I wanted to spend more money they would be more willing to.

 

Once placed, you can't change anything..

Your best bet would be to order a second unit, have it built and shipped.

Either keep the one you have coming and check it out, then call in the return once your 2nd one comes in OR try to call and cancel the order - even then it still could end up being shipped.

HP offers a 21day return policy.. No questions asked, very reliable on the returning of their notebooks if its within the 21 days.

If the back lit keyboard is important to you, or your regretting not getting that upgraded processor I would suggest reordering if you have the room on a credit card to spare.

Hope this helps.

 

The 9300...

 

I actually couldnt afford this HP Notebook if you can believe that. I did call HP before you posted and they said the same thing, once placed no change. I had to save for a few months to get this, so using a credit card is out. I guess ordering another is not an option for me. Also, waiting for this one to come has been in so many words, way too much anticipation, I know its sad... I'm very happy with the core 2 2.53 Ghz. I'm going from the HP dv6000 single core 1.86 Ghz to this, and I'm really only getting it for online sales and entertainment. I'm guessing that will be more than enough. I do however do some game simulation, cube, playstation ect. but my old HP could handle even that. Another thing I have to consider is this, HP will inevitably continue to "add things" to this series that would not have been offred when I ordred, something thats hard for PC lovers is not to look back once they make their purchase, I know I've played that game and it gets old. I think I've learned threw trial and error to just be happy with my first purchase as hard as that may be at times. Thanks a bunch for helping with my question jm1425

 

I hope your not implying that HP is now offering a backlit kb on the HDX18? I just ordered one about 9 days ago and didn't see anything about a backlit kb.

 

Yes they are, and it was 50.00 dollars to add the backlit keyboard at the time I ordred mine on the 12th of March 09.

 

darn it. that bugs me because I always keep mine plugged in so power consumption isnt an issue. I must have just missed that upgrade. i've got a merc stealth kb for the desktop so i'm kinda partial to a backlit kb anyway.

 

Really, do you find that it really makes that much of a difference? BTW merc is the best.

 

If yer typing in the dark it does heh. Half the time i'm in bed in the dark mind you so unless the panel off the laptop will reflect enough light to the kb then yes a unlit kb is ok

 

I wonder if having a lit kb would make the keys or the lappy hotter?

 

Hi.

Anyone more have this problem?

 

Hi guys, I am planning on buying an hdx18 soon, and need a little bit of help deciding on the processor.
Here is what I had originally planned:
– Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Duo Processor T9550 (2.66 GHz)
– 4GB DDR3 System Memory (2 Dimm) - For 1GB Nvidia GeForce GT 130M
– 320GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
– 1GB Nvidia GeForce GT 130M - For DDR3 Memory

The other processor I am considering is the Q9000. Not too interested in the Q9100 since it is $500 more.
I will mostly use the laptop for surfing the net (I normally have 5-8) tabs open in Opera, going on AIM, and writing word docs. That is typically the most multi-tasking that I put my computers through. I do plan on occasionally playing games though. The most graphics intense game I will play is probably The Sims 3, and the requirements for that are:
Windows Vista (Service Pack 1)
2.4 GHz P4 processor or equivalent
1.5 GB RAM
At least 6.5 GB of hard drive space with at least 1 GB additional space for custom content
128 MB Video Card with support for Pixel Shader 2.0

So I should be able to run that game quite easily.
So, is would there be any real advantage getting the Q9000 over the T9550? Will the heat be much worse from the Q, because I don't really want the cooling system to be working hard and making noise. A somewhat quiet laptop is important to me. If anyone has any advice they can give me, I would really appreciate it!

P.S. Is the 130m going to make the laptop run hotter or drain the battery much faster? I don't plan on running off the battery too often, but when I do I would like it to last for at least 2 hours or so with the screen dimmed down.

 

I haven't seen anyone mention the new HP promotion so here it is:
25% OFF Any HP Laptop*
SPRING BREAK SALE*25% off web-only coupon for the purchase of an HP Notebook PC when you purchase a Notebook accessory valued at $50 or greater on same order. Excludes HP G60 and HP G70 series, Special Edition, Mini, and Compaq Notebooks.
Coupon Code: NB2388 Offer limited to the first 1800 coupons redeemed.
Offer Expires: 03/21/2009

 

In your situation, there will be no advantage in having the Quad or the 1g Video card.

I'd save your money if I were you. That machine will run Sims 3 to its fullest potential out of the box w/ a base configuration. No need to add all the fancy stuff.

 

Great, thanks for the info CNCCO! I'll give you some rep for that.

Unfortunately for me, I can't order mine until after the 3rd of April. Hopefully there will be another coupon by then.

 

POWER BRICK ACCESSORY

When I ordered the HDX18t, I checkboxed the option to get a second power brick.

However, the accessory power brick is bigger than the computer!

Okay, I exaggerate... a little.

The accessory power brick is definitely bigger and heavier than the one that comes with the HDX18. I think it's 1/2 a volt and 1/2 an amp greater spec-wise than the included brick as well.

This is for leaving at the office (so I don't carry bricks back and forth daily), so it doesn't make that much of a diff, but it was kind of a shock when I unpacked it - I haven't seen a brick this big and heavy in years except maybe for a power tool!

Fortunately, I also got a multi-purpose AC/auto/air power supply for carrying around when needed.

 

I wonder does this coupon beat the $400.00 off total that I used march 12? So thats 200.00 instant HP discount and 200.00 off coupon code.



Originally Posted by CNCCO
I haven't seen anyone mention the new HP promotion so here it is:
25% OFF Any HP Laptop*
SPRING BREAK SALE*25% off web-only coupon for the purchase of an HP Notebook PC when you purchase a Notebook accessory valued at $50 or greater on same order. Excludes HP G60 and HP G70 series, Special Edition, Mini, and Compaq Notebooks.
Coupon Code: NB2388 Offer limited to the first 1800 coupons redeemed.
Offer Expires: 03/21/2009

 

I was wondering if people here would share what kinds of things I need to check for when my HDX 18t is delivered? Things you might have had an issue with on the Notebook such as keyboard, screen and the like. I want to make sure everything is in good working order before my 21 day return policy expires. Thanks all.

 

Okay I have a possible issue can anyone tell me if this normal....

I received my computer a few days ago, everything seems fine except there
seems to be a ton of play in the power plug where it plugs into the computer.
It does not fit snug and wobbles about 1/4" at least and seems like it it gets worse it's going to fail....

Can anyone let me know if this seems normal?

Thanks!

 

Depends how much you paid.

It would be the total cost (not counting the $400 off) of the laptop times .25 then that number needs to be subtracted by the original cost.

 

I dont have mine yet, but that does not sound kosher. It should be a snug fit with very little play I would imagine. On all of my HP notebooks the fit was tight with say maybe 1/16 to 1/8 inch play, so that doesnt leave much room for play.

 

Yeah, I've seen that before. My Uncle's HP had that problem and it eventually broke all the way, which means no AC power.

You pretty much have to re-solder a new jack inside the notebook. It's not pretty, but can be done fairly cheap.

 

Arrrrrrg.... guess I should try and get an RMA and send it back.

 

I would say so, though I haven't bought my HDX yet so there is a slim chance that is normal. But I have to think it's a VERY slim chance.

Somebody else w/ one want to verify this?

 

Hello all,

I am trying to find out how easy it is to upgrade the HDX-18's video card.

Preferably for a more powerful CAD card. (NVIDIA Quadro FX 3700M)

Thanks in advance!

Nvidia Geforce 9600m 512mb Q9000 Quad Processor.

 

I don't know that it can be done unfortunately.

 

Forgive my ignorance but this laptop doesn't use an integrated video card does it?

 

So does anyone know if this 25% off is stackable? Can you still get the 200.00 instant HP rebate PLUS the 25% off, that would be like 525.00 off right?

 

I know that the 30% off coupons are not stackable. I would assume this is the same for the 25% off coupon.

I am a EPP member and when I customize the laptop, I get 17% off, which is pretty good as well.

 

I recently got my HDX18t. I have been running various things on it to make sure everything is fine. I had read a lot about how good the sound quality is on the HX18t, however on my laptop, the volume seems to be kind of low even when I set it to the maximum (watching a blu-ray via HP media smart). Is there some setting that I need to do to fix this?

Another thing I see is, the touch pad is the HDx16 touch pad. From what I have read on this thread, this seems to be the case for all those people who received it recently. Did anybody who got the HDX16t touch pad get it replaced successfully?

Also does the 21 day period for returns start from the delivery date?

Thanks to all those who have been posting helpful information.

 

On the site doesn't it say that it is only compatible with the hdx16?

 

Mine has some play to it. It's in there, but it's not a snap-in tight fit. I've had it for 3 months and have two bricks, and they're both the same and I haven't had a problem with either.

I think that's just the way they are.

 

Yes it does. At least it did.

I hope CyberBeach doesn't plug it into his computer until he is sure it won't hurt anything.

Didn't you say the Voltage wasn't the same as the one that came w/ the HDX CyberBeach? I'd be real careful, that could possible damage your computer.

 

I believe it is 90w and the one for the hdx18 is 180w...

 

Interesting they are like that now. My DV6000 didn't have any play to it.

Just sounds scary!

 

So then I guess $400.00 off the total was a really good deal hu?

 

When I had the DV6000 or my girlfriends DV5000 neither of them ever had much play at all. If there is play in the HDX series jacks, meaning more than say 1/8-1/16 of an inch, then they must be doing something different about the way they are placing the jacks on the mb, because the A/C adapter end alone would not cause this.