dv6000t Current/ Prospective Owners Lounge

Got my CTO dv2000t yesterday from HP:

T5500 1.6 GHz Core 2 Duo, 1GB (512x2) ram, 80 GB 5400 RPM hdd, 128MB NVIDIA 7200, LightScribe DVD-RW, Win XP Pro (free upgrade to Vista).

The build and ship times were faster than promised (props to HP for that). It was only supposed to be built by today, but I already have it.

The screen is AOU with BrightView: very bright and the colors look saturated. The only thing I found odd is that in the dark the black colors look almost gray if looked at from the top, left or right. I’m guessing it’s the effect of the glossy overcoat. My 3.5 year old Compaq X1000 has a regular 15inch wide LCD, and the black colors do look black no matter which position the screen is turned. Unfortunately, I can’t compare my screen to LPL or QDS screens. Compared to my external 19inch wide-screen Acer (AL1916W) it’s just as bright and sharp. The BrightView glossy overcoat makes the colors really pop.

Compared to my X1000 where the fan would turn on only after an extended period of usage, the fan in this one is on almost constantly. I haven’t tried it on my lap just yet, but on my desk the heat is noticeable on the left bottom half of the PC (the HDD is located under the panel) where you’d usually rest your left wrist while typing. From one hour of owning this PC I can’t say just yet if the “hand-warmer” turns into a heater after a while. I do a lot of typing (programming and documenting) so I’ll have to see if the heat will get bothersome. The design on my X1000 is a lot better; the HDD is located under the mouse pad, where the heat generated is only (barely) felt by a finger instead of the wrist.

The noise from the HDD is rather odd. I can hear it only when I place my ear by it, but the sounds it makes are not of the usual hard drive. May be it’s the way this drive is designed. I’ll have to experiment a little more.

The keyboard keys are responsive, but hitting the keys make the adjacent sides of the board move up and down. I know the best keyboards are made by IBM (Lenovo), but even my X1000 board is much firmer than this one.

My biggest issue, though, is the DVD-RW. First of all, when the drive is open all the way, wiggling it left-to-right makes it feel loose and looks like it’s going to fall out of its place. I know these types of drives are all designed this way, but mine is way too loose. In addition, when the disk is read, the noises this drive makes are of the kind my car’s old brakes did. I tried reading a data disk and a music CD and in both situations the drive noises were rather disturbing. I don’t know if the LightScribe drives are intended to be like this by design.

I’ll have to stop by the Circuit City and check out the floor models before making the final decision on whether to keep this machine or return it while I still can.

 

Wes, what kind of problem did you have with your CD/DVD drive?

 

The DVD drive in my notebook makes a strange sound when I switch on the notebook or when I eject and load the DVD drive.


The sound is like ( tick - tick )

Is this sound normal or there is something wrong with my DVD drive ??


Besides that the DVD drive is working fine.

 

same here, especially at night when it's getting really quiet and all i heard is the fan from my computer (i leave it on for encoding video thru the night)

 

This "tick-tick" sounds too synthetic, so I think it's there by design. It's the grinding and screeching noises in my drive that I'm not too sure about.

 

I dunno my Lightscribe Drive is pretty quiet.. When its reading DVD/CDs it makes a quiet motor sound thats about it.

 

how long does your battery last?
58253 mWh is what is sez on RMclock as 100%.
designed capacity is 88800 mWh. i have a dv6000t, with max config. can anyone share details about their battery?

 

Cant use my Sonic program in HP to burn/copy dvd or cd, so I just install Nero StartSmart to burn/copy my dvd. Is there anyone with the same problem?

 

Hey guys, I am not what you would call an "early adopter", but you guys have really helped make me feel confident about my purchase with costco.com on the 7th... My laptop has been in Indianapolis for a whole day... it is supposed to be here on Monday morning...
I have a couple of questions that I haven't been able to find answers to:

1. What sound card do these things have? Is it condidered HD Audio?
2. How do we connect our SPDIF audio to a stereo receiver to take advantage of the 5.1 surround sound?
3. Will the NViidia 7400, with the right software, and maybe the xbox HD-DVD player play HD-DVDs?
4. Has anyone found a cheap HD tuner that works with these laptops?
5. Is anyone using a Bluetooth mouse? Which one do you like?
6. With the 7200 2 Gig processor and Wireless, can we get 180 minutes from the 6 cell battery?

I think I know, in reading all the posts, who will respond to this first!

 

I bought a dv6000t from Costco the other day and returned it because the constant fan was so irritating and my HP NX7000 of 3 years hardly ever runs it's fan.

So I have 2 theories and I'm wondering if anybody can confirm/deny them:

1: Since it's a fact that the GeForce GPU uses more power and produces more heat than the GMA 950, I'm wondering if it's added presence is what triggers the fan. Does anybody have a dv6000t with a GMA 950 and no constant fan???? (Yes, I already know the GMA sucks compared to the GeForce 7400)

2: The constant fan is due to additional heat produced by a Core 2 Duo vs. a Core Duo. Can anybody confirm/deny this???

Replies would be greatly appreciated.

 

Never had the "fan irritating" problem, dont understand y that happen. Is ur surround environment very warm or hot? Working in basement?

Do use a cooling pad/fan to cool down ur noteobook temperature.

 

bobbyrich: I'm thinking of doing the same thing. Can't use this notebook in class with the fan going too often and loudly. It's the only negative I got to say about this one. It's a shame, with it's fantastic design and specs (for the buck).

 

Hello Charles

These have a Conexant HD Audio Chip which is a version of the Intel High Definition Audio, my Hendrix songs sound quite amazing on this notebook in comparison to my other four.

To connect the SPDIF theres a little headphone jack in the front under the touchpad, which also has a mic in port and a regular headphone jack input.
To connect the notebook to a stereo reciver I have a male headphone output to an oldschool split stereo adapter because my reciever anyways doesn't have a headphone input, but most newer ones probably do. In which case you would need a cable with a double male output setup.

The Nvidia 7400 is more powerful that I would have thought and as long as there is a way to piggyback an Xbox 360 HD-DVD Player to the notebook there shouldn't be a problem at all playing HD DVDs.

As far as a HD TV Tuner the only decent one that I could find that was HD TV capable was the HP Expresscard TV Tuner card, which does actually work for HD TV among other things.

I don't use a bluetooth mouse but I must say the Logitech wireless optical mice are quite good, as I'm sure the lazer mice are aswell.

With the 7200 2 Gig processor and Wireless I'm sure you would get 2 1/2 to 3 hours battery life. The 7200 RPM drive, contrary to what HP says doesn't really even use that much more power. There also isn't really a noticible between temps either which I found pretty interesting.

Hope this helps

-Aaron

 

I new I could count on you, Airman!!! Thanks. You are very knowledgable... I can't wait to get mine on Monday!!!

 

It would start to play a DVD and then skip and stop and then start to play and stop. It was not consistant in its operation. I sent it back and will wait until they have used up their three-year old "AUO" displays.

Wes

 

Hi all Im new to this forum!

Airman, I wanted to make sure that the HP ExpressCard Analog tv tuner/w remote can be used as a HD TV tuner as well?

 

Indeed it can be Amber.

 

Charlesp22,

I think you state that you have a 7200 RPM 160 gig drive in your post. Is HP now providing the 7200 RPM or a 160 gig drive as an option, or did you install it. If you installed it, did you do a fresh install, or did you clone the 5400 RPM Fujitsu drive?

 

FedEx truck rolled up at about 10am!!! I have been deleting shortcuts, uninstalling software, downloading updates and drivers for almost 3 hours... but I am almost done! This laptop is truly unbelievable!!! I am so happy! Right now I am trying to get my Motorola HT820 to work as an headphones instead of a headset...

 

Wes, thanks for your response.
After using it for the past 3 days the DVD/CD drive seems to be working well. I was able to download, burn and install the 32-bit RC Windows Vista DVD from the MSDN subscription (very awesome OS, btw), and create 3 DVDs worth of the PC recovery back-up. The keyboard does have a nice feel to it, however, it does sometimes skip registering the strokes if you're not hitting the keys in the center (in fact, skipped 4 times just writing this message so far). The performance running the 32-bit Vista with my 1.66 GHz, Core 2 Duo, 1 gig of ram, and 128MB nVidia is great. I wish I could try the 64-bit Vista as well. I guess I'll stick to getting an HP Core 2 Duo desktop instead, use my 3.5 year old Presario X1000 for my mobile needs, and wait until a perfect (or at least close to it) laptop comes out. I will, however, miss the AUO BrightView screen. The colors saturation and conrast are something to worship. I've honestly never seen a better screen.
Now I understand that there can always be something "just not right" about a laptop. And I don't want to discourage anyone from getting a dv2000t or dv6000t just because the keyboard is not that resonsive, or the mouse pad is not as precise as you'd hope. But I'm just that much of the perfectionist that all the attributes of my tech-toys have to be just right.
I'm not a gamer, so I can't really tell if this pc will perform well. However, if you're a student and not planning to handle this model too roughly, I think for a $1000 you won't find a better machine.

 

Hi Guys,
A future owner here with some Qs And I'm so amped!!!!

How is the Media Edition working for you. What are some of its features that you like best ?

-Do you really notice a difference between Core Duo and Core Duo 2. Not sure if I should spend the xtra $25 for Duo 2.

-Should I opt of the 12 cell battery instead of 6

-Does it feel light in the carrying case

-I don't understand how every option I check is listed as "included in price"

What kind of carrying case did you guys get for it.

Many Thanks!!

 

If u dont want to carry a heavy adaptor or 12 cell battery, try this. It work out fine for my dv6000t.

http://www.tekkeon.com/site/products-mypowerall.php

Hope this help for those who dont intend to carry a heavy battery & AC-adaptor

 

Sounds like a good alternative. How does it work? How many extra hours do you get from it with your DV6000t?

 

The difference between Core Duo and Core 2 Duo is the 32-bit vs 64-bit. To take the full advantage of the Windows Vista you better off getting the 64-bit processor, especially for only $25 extra.

 

i cannot seem to decide between the dv6000t & the dv2000t. I understand you can get a better video card with the dv6000 but that is not a major concern since I would rather game on PS3.

Is there any other reason not to get the dv2000 considering it is a pound lighter and sleeker????

 

should i undervolt my dv6000?

 

I originally got the dv2000t because every pound counts when you need to tote your machine along with the books and other stuff. Comparing my old 15’ wide screen to the 14’ wide screen was not that much of real estate loss. I say if an extra pound doesn’t bother you that much go with the 15 inch.

 

I'm glad you're happy with your "AUO" display. Based on what I've read on this thread most people try to avoid that display and instead prefer the "LPL" or "QDS" displays.

Wes

 

My 6-cell battery can only last 2hrs max, with Tekkeon, i get more than 3hrs 30 mins. But it took 3hrs+ to charge the Tekkeon

 

If u only play game on PS3 or Wii & u constant move around with your laptop, I would take dv2000.

 

Firewolf,
That Tekeon looks tight. I'm going to invest in one.
Many thanks

 

rbx10,
I bought mine in S.E.Asia, I dont know where u from. May be u can ask Tekkeon if you devices work in their product first b4 u jump into it. I dont know what kind of adaptor u got, but it work fine in my dv6000 & digital camera.

 

i think my battery drains too fast

 

* Genuine Windows XP Media Center
* Intel(R) Core(TM) 2 Duo processor T7200 (2.00 GHz)
* FREE Upgrade to 15.4" WXGA BrightView Widescreen!!
* 256MB NVIDIA(R) GeForce(R) Go 7400
* HP IMPRINT Finish + Microphone + Webcam
* 1.0GB DDR2 SDRAM (2x512MB)
* 80 GB 5400 RPM SATA Hard Drive
* DVD/CD-RW Combo Drive
* Intel(R) PRO/Wireless 3945ABG Network
* 6 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
* Microsoft(R) Works/Money
* No TV Tuner w/remote control

Well i got my DV6000t today and i am really disappointed with the LCD i put it to full bright (its a SEC by the way) and it really seems dark compared to by desktop LCD from HP that is 21" so i am thinking about returning it and also getting a smaller one, the DV2000t hoping for a QDS, since its the best. To me i think the dv6000t is heavy and not portable enough to use on my lap or carry to school(what do you guys think)

Well with DV2000t should be fine playing wow, warcraft 3 and company of heroes right? on the side note i really am not a hardcore gamer, dont even play that often, maybe twice a week since i am a college student, mostly i just surf the web, chat and listen to music so the DV2000t should be good right?
Anyways Thank You

 

Seki, I think it's up to you, I've heard the screens on the dv2000 series are worse than the dv6000s as you have a much greater chance of getting the SEC.

On a side note I thought I would post and let everyone know how my dv6000t has been doing.

My HD Audio Chip died a few days ago while playing FEAR I believe either that or too much Hendrix.

I called HP to schedual a pickup so it could be fixed, and to my amazement they said they would just send me a new notebook. The same dv6000t as my CTO but with a 12-cell battery and a remote control.

I have not been horribly impressed with HP Tech support in the past but this definetly makes up for it, so when I recieve my new notebook in the next few days I will post and let everyone know how it is.

 

How did you get a HD audio chip in your dv6000t? Im asking because I'm pretty much sure I am going to get this laptop and was just wondering whether you asked for a different audio chip or whether it comes with it.
Sorry for all the questions.

 

All dv2000s, 6000s, and 9000s

come with a Conexant High Definition Audio Chip which supports the Intel HD Audio Interface.

 

I am an owner of this:HP Pavilion 6187ea.
http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/gr/e...731729-1731729-1731729-12724470-78005469.html

Characteristics:
• CPU:Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T7200
• 2.0 GHz , Level 2 cache 4 MB, 667 MHz
• Intel® PRO/Wireless 3945 802.11a/b/g
• Windows XP Home Edition
• Windows Vista*Windows Vista Premium Ready
• Memory:2x512MB DDR2 667 MHz
• HDD:120 GB SATA 5400 rpm
• Super Multi DVD Writer (+/-R +/-RW) DL
• 5-in-1 Secure Digital, MultiMedia, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, xD picture
• Modem 56k
• Ethernet 10/100BT
• Intel® PRO/Wireless 3945 802.11a/b/g LAN
• Bluetooth®
• I/O:1 VGA, 3 USB 2.0, 1 IEEE-1394, 1 RJ 11, 1 Ethernet RJ 45, S-video TV, etc
• IEEE 1394 FireWire®
• ExpressCard/54 (ExpressCard/34)
• 15,4” WXGA BrightView 1280 x 800
• NVIDIA® GeForce™ Go 7400 RAM TurboCache™ 256 MB (dedicated 128 MB)
• HP QuickPlay media player
• HP Pavilion WebCam
• 16 bit, 3D, Sound Blaster Pro Altec Lansing®
• Microsoft® Works 8.0,Microsoft® Internet Explorer 6.0, Microsoft® Outlook® Express, Adobe® Reader 7.0
• Sonic™ Digital MediaPlus : Sonic™ RecordNow, Sonic™ MyDVD, Sonic™ Easy Archive, Sonic™ Express Labeler, Microsoft® Windows® Media Player, Microsoft® MovieMaker, HP Photosmart Premier, DVD Play (Cyberlink), QuickPlay Direct και QuickPlay για Windows
• Symantec™ Norton Internet Security™ 2006 (60 days)


I want to upgrade to 2x1GB modules of DDR-667.
The problem is that HP modules are too expensive in Greece and USA also.
I want to find compatible modules from another vendor in Europe because i cannot order from USA.
Any suggestions?

 

My dv6152eu comes this friday!! w00t!

- HP Pavilion dv6152eu NB
- Genuine Windows XP Media Centre Edition
- AMD Turion 64 x2 Dual Core TL-52
- 15.4" WXGA BrightView Widescreen!!
- 256mb NVIDIA GeForce Go 7200
- HP IMPRINT Finish
- 1.3px webcam, Bluetooth, Microphone
- 1.0GB DDR2 SDRAM (2x512MB)
- 100 GB 5400 RPM SATA Hard Drive
- LightScribe Super Multi 8X DVD+/-RW w/Double Layer
- WiFi network connection.
- 6 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
- Microsoft(R) Office
- Freecom - DVB-T USB tv tuner, Remote control

First HP laptop, cant wait!

 

Is there a point in getting the OS and Recovery media for windows MC? or can I make my own recovery cd that can be used for an OS backup?

 

If I'm not mistaken the HP's ship with recovery stuff partitioned into the hard drive already. You'll probably have to just locate the recovery partition and burn it onto your own CD.

 

Then, will that subsite for a genuine windows os cd? or will it just restore the computer to its factory condition. Also, does anyone use Lojack for laptops on their laptop? Im just thinking of getting it, but would like to know peoples experience with it.

 

I just ordered my dv6000t! Build date Dec. 13

HP Pavilion dv6000t customizable Notebook PC

* FREE Upgrade to Genuine Windows XP Media Center!!
* Intel(R) Core(TM) 2 Duo processor T7200 (2.0 GHz)
* FREE Upgrade to 15.4" WXGA BrightView Widescreen!!
* 256MB NVIDIA(R) GeForce(R) Go 7400
* HP Imprint Finish + Microphone + Webcam
* 2048MB DDR2 System Memory (2 Dimm)
* 100GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive
* LightScribe Super Multi 8X DVD+/-RW w/Double Layer
* Intel(R) PRO/Wireless 3945ABG Network w/Bluetooth
* $30 OFF!! HP ExpressCard Analog TV Tuner w/remote
* 6 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
* Microsoft(R) Works/Money
* System Recovery DVD w/Windows XP Media Center
* HP Home & Home Office Store in-box envelope
Includes free printer and express upgrade to windows Vista!
All for $1,429!

I hope that I get a QDS screen or LG!

 

Just want to ask, my dv6126 come with 1GB (2x512MB) RAM. Just bought a 1GB 667MHz & want to install in it. Can I leave single 512MB in together with another 1GB RAM? Will it slow down my notebook? Since it's a 2 slot DIMM & two same capacity RAM will work faster. Please help.

 

I'm about to buy a dv6000t, but the short battery life is making me pause. If I bring it on a plane, I can't even watch a 2+hr movie? That seems annoying.

 

I got the 12-cell. I like it a lot better, and can get almost 5 hours battery life.

 

Viewing Photos On A Wide Screen Laptop

When I view my photo on Windows Pictures and Fax Viewer using my wide screen laptop the photos are stretched horizontally. How can I change the aspect ratio to view the photos as they were taken rather in stretched mode?

Thanks,
Wes

 

Webcam Errror: So I tried to use the webcam today and it gave me an error saying- "Creation of the video preview failed. Please check the device connection and make sure the device is not being used by another application or user."

I reinstalled the webcam driver without luck. What should I do?

 

So I ordered an 80GB harddrive... and when I received my computer, my C drive has only 64GB while I have 9GB partitioned for recovery... is that my 80GB or what?

 

Yes, 74GB of actual space sounds right for a 80GB hard drive...
http://compreviews.about.com/od/storage/a/ActualHDSizes.htm