*HP dv8 Owners Lounge*

I did a system recovery and everything lags now. When I type, the letters don't show up until about half a second later than usual, startup takes forever, and programs don't start up as fast. I went to the default settings on the bios and the fan doesn't run at full speed anymore, but it looks like nothing is helping the other issues. The good things is that HP will give me a full refund for the computer after I found out that I've had the computer for 23 days which is 2 days late of their official return policy. I think they let me do this because they were sick of me asking what the difference was between an "exchange" and a "return and exchange". One good thing about this whole situation is that i don't mind the Apple tax as much anymore.

 

well everything seems to being working fine now that i went back to a restore point of 12/17. but i think the fan might be louder?

does anyone know how to check that or change settings for it?

HP can keep their bios update. when i was on the phone with them last night they said it works fine and they weren't aware of people having problems. i hope to sync my iphone again one of these days...

 

HP just called me back. they are working on another update to the BIOS.

 

Well that's good to hear. I'm just glad their acknowledging there is in fact a problem.

 

I have absolutely none of the problems you are having. I just had the fan issue and a loading of the default fixed that. All my quick buttons scroll on the touch pad, and everything else works as it should. You might want to check if you have the most recent synaptic drivers.

 

I registered here SPECIFICALLY to report on this Bios issue which appears to be plaguing the other early adopters here... my dv8t also came with the F.06 bios, and I updated to F.12 tonight--I was also greeted with an Overheating warning. My graphics card fan was also ALWAYS on. I called HP immediately to find out about this problem, and they told me it was supposed to be that way. It's an entertainment notebook they say, and they don't want it to overheat. Bull. I was told they hadn't received any complaints concerning this issue, and that they would address the issue assuming mine isn't a random occurrence. Obviously I'm not the only one who's had to deal with this. The F.05E bios archived on the HP site won't allow a downgrade either--why is it even available?

I noticed that the fan setting "Always On" was enabled, so I shut it off. The fan still chugged away at 100% once I loaded into Windows. On the suggestion of a post on the previous page, I loaded the bios defaults, and my fan speed is back to minimal during regular use. Thanks--I think I may have demanded a replacement if I had to suffer through that annoying fan much longer--I like to keep my laptops running 24/7.

 

Can't find a review on this to save my life. Any links?

What's the consensus on the screen? Some reviews criticized the screen on the DV7 - supposedly it's dim etc. Is this the same technology?

Also there are two HD slots, right?

 

I gave both the DV7 and DV8 a go before settling on the DV8. Don't go with the DV7, unless you really want that moonlight white plastic option for $25 (wish it was available for DV8). By default, no fingerprint reader on the DV7, plus Wifi-N and a Blu-Ray player are typically upgrades. Side by side, the DV8 resolution has a much better feel--they really should have increased the DV7 screen resolution--and the DV6 for that matter. Good luck finding an 18" carrying bag/case though. Thankfully, the DV8 comes with a little cloth slipcase, which I use for carrying in an oversized bag, since my Dell XPS 17" bag won't hold it properly.

Yes, the screen on the DV8 is just as dim, but it's not really BAD--you may have some issues using it while in direct sunlight though. I've gone through a half-dozen HP laptops over the last 5 years, and all of the Pavilions had that same dim look--you get used to it, but not outdoors.

Two HDD bays. The second (unless you get a 2xhdd build) bay comes missing the adapter cable and bracket. If you're lucky you can find one on ebay for $35 shipped--which is where I got mine.

 

I've been reading these posts with interest; and thank you all for your help.

I've had two problems I haven't found mentioned:
Problem 1: This has happened twice in two weeks. Upon bootup, the treble indicator is displayed with the blue 'level' indicator rapidly pulsating in its level window. The only way I've found to stop it is to reboot the computer.

Problem 2: This problem happens when the computer exits from a program that is initialized via a boot CD/DVD. The computer displays an overheating problem. This happens reqardless if the computer has been on 10 minutes or 10 seconds; so it's very obvious the computer is not hot. (This is the same problem described here as happening after exiting from the BIOS upgrade.)

I thought I'd give their 'email help' a shot. Can't understand their phone reps; plus this way I'd have something in writing. They had me update the graphic and chipset drivers (with the same drivers already installed) plus do the BIOS update. I guess I lucked out with the BIOS update as I only had the "overtemp warning upon exit from the upgrade" and the "high fan speed" most everyone has had. The BIOS default setting also quieted the fan for me. I didn't have any of the other 'after effects' mentioned here.

Has anyone else had these two problems? Won't know if their 'fixes' did any good for a couple weeks. Any help would be appreciated.

PS: HP DOES know about the BIOS upgrade issues (I have it in writing); and I strongly suspect I'm not the only one to tell them.

 

Concerning issue #1, if it only happens infrequently, it's probably just something you can live with. I've had mine for a month now and never seen that happen.

I've seen at least one person with this exact issue (over in a DV8t thread on the slickdeals website), but it was a constant problem that could be easily replicated--HP apparently acknowledged it as a hardware issue, and they offered to provide the owner a free 2-year extended warranty if they chose to keep it instead of returning it. Seems like a hardware issue to me. Call them, explain that you've tried multiple solutions, and that you want it sent in for repairs. I've had to invoke an HP repair warranty on at least 3 occasions, and they were always speedy--full turnaround time was in the 5-day range. If you make it clear from the start that it's impacting your daily life (and that you'll settle for nothing less than a repair), they'll still make you try several solutions from a pre-generated list, but they WILL arrange a pre-paid repair for you at the end. If you don't make it clear that you WANT a repair, they'll just keep walking you in circles with solution sets. They're paid to reduce return and repair cases, not suggest them to the customer.

Problem #2, no comment--haven't seen this issue.

 

I also gave the DV7t a try before getting the DV8t. Now I liked the screen on the dv7t. I had the non-infinity screen and it was fine. The 1600x900 was perfect but 1080 should have been an option. It didn't have bluray and that should have been included.

The Targus 18' deluxe bag fits this and the HDX 18t perfectly. But again regarding the screen on the dv7t, I found it to be amazing so I'm sure when I open my dv8t up on xmas I'll find it even better.

 

Thanks so much for this honest reply, just what I was looking for.

Bummer about the HDD bay and the missing stuff but apparently Dell Studio 17 has the same issue which is another notebook I'm considering.

I can not find this thing anywhere on the Finnish HP webpage. Anyone have a clue when it arrives here? Or if it even will? Will probably be calling them up tomorrow.

 

Really? O.O To each his own I guess. Without a comparison, the DV7t looked good, but I couldn't stand the lower resolution... I had blu-ray configured for both units, and the difference was noticeable when i popped in a movie.

The funny thing was, near identical configuration for DV7/DV8, and the price was the same... After trying both out, I'm convinced the DV8 (default) is the much better buy. If only that moonlight plastic option was available for the DV8... I've had bad past experiences with "shiny key syndrome"--I hate black keyboard builds.

HP has been pulling this stuff for at least 4 years now. Back when I got my DV8000z, I was amazed that it was missing a bracket... which they were so willing to charge me $60 for. It's a game they play, but other manufacturers do it too. I consider it false advertising that they fail to state necessary hardware is missing, even if it isn't necessary for the advertised build. Product descriptions still list the DV7/DV8 as having 2-bays, so the drive kits really should be included.

Hard to say when it will be available overseas. My suggestion to you--consider buying from a reseller on ebay and make use of a Bing cashback (assuming it's an option overseas). I'm sure there are 3rd party services that will offer to warranty a unit purchased on ebay, much as Squaretrade does in the states. Note that HP won't honor warranties overseas for products marketed for the USA. If you have friends or family in the states... simply send it to them to invoke warranty rights (if you ever have a problem). HP warranties are FULLY transferable, as many times as need be during the lifespan of a warranty. As long as you never personally attempt to register it overseas, the warranty won't be voided for any future users.

 

Are there separate controls for the subwoofer? I know its not a 12 inch sub, but i would still like to get it to sound a bit better. I tried audio controls and turned up the bass boost. I guess i was expecting a bigger difference.

 

I'm looking at getting one of these dv8t quad machines.

The only thing holding me back now is TPM support. I need Win7 Bitlocker to work.

Does anyone know if the dv8t quad has a TPM and has anyone enabled Bitlocker in TPM mode successfully on one of these machines?

The specifications on HP's web site make no mention of TPM support, which leads me to believe this laptop doesn't have one. Pity.

 

I don't believe that's the case--TPM requires a physical module on the motherboard, and this is something that would be detailed in the hardware description. I sure don't see anything, so I'd say you're out of luck. Another note, even with TPM, you'd need Win7 Ultimate or Enterpise for bitlocker functionality.

 

Getting Win7 Ultimate or Enterprise isn't an issue for me.

But thanks, I guess I'll either have to do USB Bitlocker, or look for another laptop. Pity, the DV8T looked like exactly what I wanted otherwise.

 

This is true, USB bitlocker is still an option. I already go with free encryption software (both HDD and USB), so were it me... I'd just go with the basic OS and save some cash. It really depends just how secure you need to be. If you were really serious about security anyhow... you'd be sitting behind Taclanes, not playing with bitlocker Apples to oranges of course, but I don't worry about people stealing my equipment at home

 

Can anybody tell me if new BIOS F.12 solves overheating display message?

 

It most certainly does not. I was greeted with that warning upon restarting after my update to F.12 yesterday.

 

One of these encryption methods may work for you:
http://www.informationweek.com/news...e.jhtml?articleID=222001071&queryText=encrypt

RT

 

To those who received your dv8s already:
what hard drive is used in your laptops?
Is it a WD, Hitachi, or etc?

 

I never had an overheating issue before the F.12 update, after the update I got the overheating warning on the first reboot. After resetting bios to defaults I haven't had an overheat message again and the fans run at normal speeds.

 

Thanks for the recommendation. Where in the case do the power brick and mouse go? Do they bulge out or dig into the laptop sleeve? Does it have a shoulder strap? No shoulder strap shows in the Amazon or Mobile Edge product page pictures. can you clarify what the "Exclusive Wireless Security Shield™ pocket protects cell phones and PDAs from hackers and viruses" is all about? is there a distinct cell phone pocket? Also, you mention V-Load 2.0, what is this about? Nor Amazon or Mobile Edge seem to show anything about 2.0.

Thanks

 

Has anyone used the Microsoft Wireless Notebook Presenter 8000 mouse? I imagine that it would work with the DV8 since it is a Bluetooth mouse.

 

stupid question but can someone tell how to get to the bios so i can change the fan?

 

Mine came with dual Hitachi HTS725032A9A364 drives.

RT

 

On bootup, watch for "Press Escape key for Startup Menu", then push the F10 key. Select the 'System Configuration' tab to find the 'Fan Always On' option; select the 'Exit' tab to find the 'Load Setup Defaults' option. You may want to write down the BIOS settings, especially if you're planning on doing a reset to defaults.

RT

 

Thanks RT!!
Been waiting all afternoon for a reply

 

haha... whats the question again?
And yea, the Microsoft Notebook Presenter should work with the dv8 IF it has bluetooth technology (if you have it in your notebook) because bluetooth is not standard on all dv8s.
Although I have never tried that mouse before. I am a Logitech fan =D

 

fwiw, my dv7t arrived yesterday with one Seagate 500 GB drive.

 

now my scroll bar on the touch pad doesn't work again...grrrr!

 

I really really hope that it comes with dual seagates, hitachi drives a re the worst on the market.

 

Are Hitachi drives really the worst? I heard that Seagates one are the worst ones.

 

Doing another system restore. My dv8 is acting like it when I updated the bios the other day. I really really wish I never downloaded it!

 

Thanks for the info regarding fan always on after updating to bios f.12, I will try it as soon as my iPhone finishes syncing

On a different issue, after installing the drivers for my logitech V450 Laser Cordless Notebook Mouse (so that I can click the scroll wheel left/right to go back or forward in my web browser), the mouse pointer speed for when I control it with the touchpad is no longer saved after restarting my PC, no matter how many times I reset the mouse pointer speed in the touchpad settings. So, when I use the Logitech mouse, the pointer speed is nice and responsive, but when I use the touchpad to move the mouse pointer the speed is extremely slow and I have to make several swipes to move the pointer from one side of the window to the other. Anyone experiencing the same problem or have any suggetions? I have updated my mouse drivers and software for both the Logitech and from Synaptics but that has yet to solve the issue for me.

 

i don't know what the hell i s going on? after updating the bios on sunday and having all the problems and doing 2 system restores the laptop was working fine...for a day and a half. it is now back to working like crap. after 2 more system restores it's still not right. i checked bios and it still at f.12. I WANT F.12 OUT OF MY COMPUTER!

 

WOOHOO!!!
Got my dv8 and my mouth was watering as soon as I the box.
Opened it and the first thing I did was wipe the drive clean and installed my own Win7 64 bit and installed the drivers.

Got everything working except the quicklaunch eject button.

Still loving it!!

 

What are you basing your comments on? I've had worse luck with WD; but I'm not so narrow-minded as to say they are the worst.

RT

 

Ive had 5 seagates, 3 WDs, and 4 Hitachis
of the seagates one failed (under warranty and was replaced), of the WDS none failed, and every hiatachi ive owned has failed, never will buy them again,

 

Assuming I'd order a single HDD build, is it possible to remove the original hard drive, jam the SSD in it's place and then install Windows on it? This will work, right?

 

Halon,

System restore will not change your BIOS, in order to roll back to the previous version (F.05 E) you will need to download the file from HERE and re-flash your BIOS.

 

well depends, are you trying to run an SSD + HDD combo no, if your just gonna do a SSD then yea

for the SSD + HDD you need to have 2 adapters and 2 caddies

 

Last night I updated bios version from F.05 (manufacturing version) to F.12.

Before this update, everytime I shutdown a Linux OS, I greeted an overheating message from BIOS. I updated Bios and no more overheating messages I got. I start an UIbuntu 9.10 Live CD and I shutdown system and everything is right. I am very happy. I don't get any overheating message after update.

Fan was at full speed after bios update, but restoring values to defaults and disabling "Fan Always On", notebook is working right.

I am very happy now.

Next battle is how to create a partition on main hard disk to install ubuntu on it. An option maybe to erase HP_TOOLS partition and resizing OS partition to have a place to create an extended partition to install Ubuntu next to Windows 7 preinstalled.
I have a doubt. If I delete HP-TOOLS partition, recovery partition will work?

 

Yeah but like I'll be able to install the OS from the DVD even without the original HDD attached? Like the DVD drivers aren't there or something?

I was thinking about using something like an USB HDD for storing media that takes a lot of HDD space.

 

OH!, yea you can do that fine, you might want to torrent an install disk though (perfectly legal).

 

If you're going with an external Hard Drive for your dv8t, get an eSATA compatible drive. They are MUCH, MUCH faster --- the dv8t does have an eSATA port. You can get them at NewEgg (and others); or you can get an enclosure plus a hard drive and build your own. I have one of each ... both work great.

RT

 

Tried it last night and it doesn't work...won't let you rollback. Thanks though.

 

Didn't someone say on here they are working on another update to the Bios? I'd keep bugging them about that.

 

"Which hard drive is best" will never get answered to everyone's satisfaction. It's like "which is best, Ford or Chevy" ... a matter of personal preference, year of build, model, and how it was used.

I presently have 14 drives in 2 desktops, 2 laptops, 1 server, and 5 external drives ... multiple makes and models; and I've only had one drive fail in more than 5 years.

I have no idea how many hard drives I've owned, I've worked with hard drives since data storage changed from tape to disk. My first ones to fail were Maxtor; then I changed to WD, which were good until they lowered their warranty period to 1 year on popular models (they did this for a reason, and it wasn't for our benefit); and then I went to Seagate because of their longer warranty.

The drive in my dv5220 laptop is a Fujitsu and going on 4 years; oh ya, the drive it replaced was a Seagate ... crapped out at 6 months from build date.

For someone to say one specific drive make "are the worst on the market" is ludicrous, based mainly on personal preference. If everyone bought the same make, the rest would be out of business. They all can fail, that's why you should backup, backup, and backup.

RT