*** Official Clevo P650RG, P650RE3, P650RE6/Sager NP8658 and NP8657 Owner's Lounge ***

I read in this thread and some of the other sager threads that some people had problems with the power button. If it's not the power brick, maybe it's a faulty power button.

Meaker from Sager might have some ideas.

Sent from my HTC One_M8

 

I wouldn't go with 970 sli over a 980m. Firstly it is going to cost more and only be slightly faster in some games. Secondly you are going to have one hell of a hot laptop which is fine for cpu and gpu, but will lower the life of motherboard and other components. Thirdly, I have the 980M and it games about the same as my desktop 280x at 1080p just fine. Fourthly, when Pascal comes out next year you are going to want to have saved your money for an incredible laptop gpu. For now the 980M is more than capable.

 

It depends on the games you play really, for myself yes a single card is more desirable but you play titles that get on well with SLI.

 

Hi all,

I've had my NP8657-S with 680m for a couple months and so far it's been a great update to my NP9170 which was definitely too big and bulky. The keyboard is way better too. I am pretty happy with it overall.

Unfortunately I've been having a couple of problems with it and I wonder if they're known issues or anybody knows the fix:

1. HDMI flicker or black flashes. When I connect an external monitor or TV to the HDMI port, the image goes blank for a second at random times, sometimes is worse than others. I have tried with different cables, TVs and monitors and some are better but the issue is still there (e.g. one TV almost never does it and other does it constantly). The Mini-DVI ports don't do this. I think it could be the power brick. I have the slimmer one. I noticed the issue doesn't happen when I am on battery.
   
   
2. Sometimes sleep shuts down the machine completely. The machine goes and comes from sleep very well, but sometimes it shuts down completely from being in a sleep state, losing whatever was open. It does not seem to depend on battery level, but I think it only happens when the machine is not connected and maybe carried around for a few hours. Not sure if it has anything to do with movement, or if it could be a configuration thing.
   

Any help appreciated!

 

Hi, first time posting here, had a quick question. I just recently got the np8657-s directly from Sager, and I like it quite a bit, except for issues with backlight bleed on the ips screen. I opted to get the 1080p ips screen with g-sync, and I noticed almost immediately when I had a black screen up that the edges/corners were glowing a bit. I turned off the lights, and it became quite apparent.

I took some pictures, http://imgur.com/a/oOedB, it's not as bad as it looks there, phone camera exaggerates it quite a bit, but it is pretty noticeable. Can't really see it when the screen is displaying color, but in games or things I'm watching, if the edges are black, it shows up quite clearly, even in a well-lit room. Is this par for the course with these types of screens, or is it particularly bad here? I have seen posts here talking about the issue, and my question is, is there anything I can do to possible fix it myself? Googling, I've seen people mention rubbing the screen, which I don't really know about, or possible removing the bezel and seeing if that fixes it, and then slowly re-tightening it. Are these things that would possible work?

Also, if that failed, would this be something I could send back to Sager and have fixed, or even better, would they be wiling to ship me a screen? As in, would they take it under RMA, and would they be able to ensure I got a better screen? I already had to send back a machine because it arrived with dead pixels, and I'm not keen on having to wait another 2 weeks to get the laptop back, especially since apparently there is no way to ensure that the screen I get back will be better, and could possible be worse, if I am understanding things right.

If all else fails, would just ordering another screen online, and cycling through those until I got a good one be the way to go? Not at all a fan at having to spend more money to get a screen myself on a machine I spent around $1600 on, but I will if I have to.

Thanks for your help.

 

Hey I've had the exact same issue in #1. I found this article https://mrgnome.wordpress.com/2009/06/12/external-monitor-flicker-laptop-ground-loop-problem-solved/ but I haven't used their solution or anything yet, so I'm not 100% sure if it's the same problem.

 

I found that article too, I tried it but it didn't work. I tried it with the monitor and the computer power cables, but maybe I should have tried with both at the same time.

 

Some people have had luck trying to fix the screen themselves by the methods you mentioned. But you just want to be careful if you go about removing the bezel, to not break anything. That wouldn't be covered by warranty.

It might be worth contacting Sagers support about that to see what they recommend before attempting anything. Usually, if it is an easy swap like a stick of ram, some companies would be okay with sending that out. But I don't think they would be up for sending out a display, since it is more involved and if you damage the system it wouldn't be covered at that point more than likely.

 

Do you guys think there is ever a chance of a modded vbios appearing for this laptop? I am so close to hitting the Rift/Vive recommended score but can't quite do it!

 

I'm telling you Pat - if you guys start a paid service to get rid of the light bleeds, XoticPC will be making a killing on Sager laptops sales and Sager will love you!

Sent from my HTC One_M8

 

I agree. I've had 2 Sagers within a short period of time and both of them had serious light bleed. I'm so disappointed, once my warranty runs out, I will not be purchasing another Sager unless they do something about it.

 

If you have serious issues with the display then you should talk to our support team about it.

 

Meaker - i gotta confess to you about something...
I tried to mention the heavy light bleeds as part of my original RMA, they came back saying light bleeds are normal and the only option I was given was to to get a full refund instead. I ended up getting the refund and got a different laptop from XoticPC. I really wish I was one of the lucky ones who didn't have any issues. I liked that laptop size, weight and it's design. I'll definitely consider it again when it's time for a new laptop.

P.S. - XoticPC was awesome throughout the whole RMA / Refund process. Thanks Alex and Eric!!

Sent from my HTC One_M8

 

Okay, I'll contact them, as well as seeing if I can perhaps fix it on my end. I really do want it fixed, but I just can't be without the machine for a further 2 weeks, especially if there is no guarantee that it'll get better. Thanks for the help.

Hi, seeing as you work for Sager, I was wondering if you knew what the options are from Sager's end in terms of the screen. Would sending it back under RMA be the only option I have? Or would they not even take that under RMA, and it would just have to be a full return? Or do you just suggest contacting the technical support team and seeing what they have to say.

 

It's not my department so send them an email but as far as I understand it for something like an LCD replacement it would need to go back.

 

And that would do what? I've read enough posts to know that;

First, an attempt will be made to downplay the seriousness of the light bleed.

Second, it will be suggested a certain amount of light is acceptable and is inherent with IPS technology.

Third, when I show them a photo of the light bleed, another suggestion will be attempted to indicate the camera used to take the photo will sometimes cause it to appear far worse than it actually is.

Fourth, after about a week or maybe two of emailing and response (I would be lucky to get 2 responses per day but usually once per day), I'll get an RMA.

Fifth, if I'm super lucky, I may get my computer back within 2 weeks and it's repaired 100% (no light bleed). Otherwise, I may get it back with some light bleed removed and stamped that its fixed. Or I may just get it back in the same condition it was in when it was sent.

As you can see, I am extremely sour that I stupidly played the "no light bleed Sager computer" lottery and not only did I lose TWICE, my second Sager has even more light bleed than the first. I have no one to blame than myself as I knew the risk going in.

I now have resorted to using an external monitor which entirely defeats the purpose of getting a laptop. I'm an idiot and I'm fully aware I must lie in it since I've made my bed.

 

When did you buy the laptop? I think you have 30 days to return it for a full refund. If you can't do that, at least talk to Sager and see what options you have. Don't just go based on what you see on this thread.

Edit: my earlier comment about the RMA was to reflect my own experience with it, but I was still within my 30 day time window to get the refund. You might as well ask.
Sent from my HTC One_M8

 

So taking off the bezel and messing with the screen did basically nothing, and taking to Sager, although he said he would check with his service manager, it looks like they consider it not bad, so nothing from them most likely, short of going for a full refund. Already had to go through that for 2 weeks getting the new machine in, what with the first device having dead pixels, can't really afford to wait that long again. Honestly don't think it's too much to ask to pay close to $1600 and get a device with a satisfactory screen. I'm not expecting plasma blacks, just to have a screen that doesn't look like someone's shining a flashlight at the corners, but it is what it is I guess.

I guess my question is, I see a lot of listings online for the screen, it's an LG, model LP156WF6(SP)(B1). But nowhere do any of them talk about the g-sync support, which is a large reason why I paid extra and got the screen. I freely admit I don't know a whole lot about how this stuff works, but can I assume that the g-sync module is included in any screen of this type? As in, no matter where I got it from, it would come with the module included in the screen?

A second question is, does anybody know of a potentially better screen than the one listed above to get that would be compatible, but with mostly the same specs, i.e. 1080p and g-sync? I guess IPS means only LG, but I see that there are other manufacturers that make IPS-like products. Just a bit leery of ordering another of the same type of screen and running into similar issues.

Thanks.

 

Just googling the model number with the word gsync seems to show that it comes with it based on the results, so probably.

Unfortunately I don't know the answer to the second question.

Sent from my HTC One_M8

 

Btw someone on this thread said he pulled the bezel off and sanded the pinched corners to get rid of the light bleed. Do it at your own risk though.

Sent from my HTC One_M8

 

Hi
So my Np8658-s just arrived but since the first boot up its showing a warning whenever I turn it on saying that the CMOS battery is low or probably damaged. It works but I cant save any preference in the Bios. So the question is can I fix this just by opening the laptop and changing the battery with a new one? It would take painfully long to send it back to Xotic.

 

I got a P650RG from Mythlogic and only notice light bleed from the upper right hand side if running at full brightness, but I never run anything at full brightness. It shortens the life of components, plus it's just too bright. I run half brightness or maybe a tab or two under half and there is Zero bleed.

 

Hey Drakkar01,

Sorry to hear about that. Yeah, I would think you should be fine to check the battery or replace it. Those are basically watch batteries that are a few dollars at most. If you want, you could talk with our tech support and they can get you some instructions on how to check or replace that. But let me know if there is anything I might be able to help with otherwise.

 

I just ordered a Sager 8658-s Clevo 650RG from Xotic. I do not know how long it'll take to get here. I look forward to opening the package.

 

Thanks for ordering with us!

We'll send you updates when the order goes to production, is near completion at Sager, and then when it ships out as well. And if you have any questions at any point, just let me know.

 

Yeah, couldn't get any real confirmation, but I decided to swing for it and order another one. There are other screens out there with better color gamut, but I couldn't be assed to figure out which were also g-sync capable. For some reason it seem like that information is practically non-existent, would have thought it would be more in demand.

Lol, I'm not quite sure what that would even entail in terms of what exactly to sand off, I think I'll just hope this new one is fine.

I wish I could have said the same. Bleed even at zero brightness. Obviously highly reduced at that point, but still noticeable, at least on dark images.

 

Hmmmm, so I guess I fundamentally misunderstood something. I was under the impression that laptop screens somehow still needed the g-sync module to have that functionality, but a bit of research makes it seem like the edp being present in a display is enough for it to be used with g-sync. Implies that any display using edp would be able to use g-sync. Can somebody say if this is correct? If so, would using some display x that I wanted to get work most optimally?

Quoting from an anandtech article, they state that "laptop manufacturer needs to work with NVIDIA to enable this, since NVIDIA has to establish the parameters for the particular laptop panel in order to correctly know the maximum and minimum refresh rate as well as the amount of over/under-drive necessary", among other things that imply the same. Makes it sound like settings are tuned for each display that Nvidia certifies, which would mean I can't just throw something in there and expect it to work as well as the stock display.

On an unrelated note, both on the machine I have now and the one I returned a bit ago for dead pixels, I was not able to launch the Intel HD graphics control panel, unless I went into mshybrid mode. In fact, I couldn't even update the drivers without going into the mode, it said my system didn't meet the requirements. Is this expected to happen? I'm assuming it just doesn't see the intel gpu at all unless you're in hybrid mode?

 

From what I read in this thread - That is correct. You have to switch to hybrid mode, but what many people will tell you here is that gsync doesn't work properly in hybrid mode. So you might as well leave it off.

Sent from my HTC One_M8

 

In dedicated mode the IGP is disabled, in hybrid mode it is used in optimus (and g-sync is disabled).

 

It looks like this has more or less been answered, but just to sum up: That's correct. Windows will not detect the Intel HD graphics if you are in dedicated mode in the BIOS. When you enable hybrid mode, then the Intel HD Graphics driver can be installed.

 

I'm dying for some pics of the P650rg's 4k screen offering from xotic. don't know what the response time, contrast, brightness distribution, color accuracy and angled shots look like and would appreciate finding out. Can't seem to find the info anywhere. Did I miss it in the thread somewhere? Deliberating between the UHD and FHD screens. Does the UHD cut into battery life by a obvious amount or is it minimal?
Thanks!

 

4k screens do use more battery life and as it has been said scaling isn't greatly supported properly unless manually messing with graphics settings. For most gamers even with a 980m FPS would be poor with a 4k compared to 1080P.

 

Any info on the same specs for the g sync fhd screen from sager/xoticpc?

Is it just too new? Is there a review of a unit with the same screen I can look at, of either screen for that matter? Don't know why I didn't ask that from the start. Oh well, it's a process.

 

I got the g-sync FHD screen, model I got was LP156WF6-SPB1. Information here, http://www.panelook.com/LP156WF6-SPB1_LG Display_15.6_LCM_overview_24180.html, googling the model gives more information. Screen looks good except for the heavy bleed I had, Sager wouldn't replace it since it's just a thing with some IPS screens, in the process of looking around for a replacement.

 

You could look into adjusting the bezel, it can help reduce the pressure on the screen, though the fit may not be as good.

 

Which 4k screen comes with Xoticpc when you make that choice?

• 15.6" 4K Samsung PLS QFHD (3840x2160) Wide Viewing Angle LED-Backlit Display with Super Clear Matte Type Screen
• 15.6" 4K Sharp IGZO QFHD (3840x2160) Wide Viewing Angle LED-Backlit Display with Super Clear Matte Type Screen

Since its been said that scaling is still somewhat of an issue unless small tweaks are make. Does this mean for each game? Can I set up a profile for each game so I only have to fiddle with it once? Is playing at 1080 on a 4k screen still not worth it? when not gaming, during day to day stuff is it nice having the 4k screen? sharper? or should I just let it go and get the RG with a 1080 screen?

Sheesh, I almost feel the same way I do when buying a car. So many angles and scenarios to consider.

 

Don't think that'd do anything, took the bezel completely off in order to see if loosening the screws holding the panel in would make difference, didn't see any change.

 

Don't you find it odd you are investing your own time and money to repair a product which is under warranty? Then to have that manufacturer suggest you attempt some procedure that could potentially void that warranty? Unbelievable!!!!

 

Hello, sorry to butt in, but I've a doubt regarding the P650RG and maybe (probably?) some of you can clarify it (I'll probably be an owner too but I'm doing an extensive research before pulling the trigger XD)

Here is the thing:
How the GSync's "magic" works ? You've to turn off Optimus in the BIOS ? If so, when you disable Optimus, what happens to the iGPU ? Would it be possible to pass it to a VM ? (Assuming your CPU has VTd). That's something I would really like to try because most of the apps I use runs better on Linux, so getting an "extra" boost doesn't look bad.
Windows is not exactly the easiest platform to interact with hardware directly to begin with, but it shouldn't be impossible since the iGPU is directly wired to the CPU (thus, shouldn't need VTd support on the chipset). Ultimately I could use Linux as my main OS since I'm very familiar with the platform, the only "problem" would be driver support which is probably not so good right now, but this would allow me to have both systems at the same time which is my final objective.
In laptops, GSync is essentially the same as FreeSync/Adaptive Sync, the only real difference with Optimus laptops is that the display is connected directly to the dGPU instead to the iGPU. But in this case Clevo solved it using a "switch" to effectively allow the display to connect with both GPUs, enabling Optimus when selecting the iGPU as "display controller" and enabling GSync when selecting the dGPU.
If what I think is right, it means that both GPUs must be powered and connected to the system at the same time (the iGPU cannot be physically shut down and the dGPU needs to stay alive to allow Optimus or GSync to work), so technically there should be a way to achieve the "trick".
I know it's possible in certain desktops to pass a dGPU to a VM, and I've read about some people being able to run the PC headless (without monitor) using Xen/VMWare ESXi and passing both iGPU and dGPU to different VMs
I'm not really sure about passing the dGPU since it would probably require VTd support on the chipset (which is lacking on the HM170), besides, Geforce models are known to have issues with that (only the professional models allows it cleanly). What I'm interested in is in the iGPU (disabling Optimus of course)...

Have any of you attempted this ??

 

Is not that odd actually, I've read that many buyers of the Alienware 15 R2 FHD have done that since the display they have is a crappy one, and is cheaper to get a new one (like the AUO B156HAN01.2) for about $100 and do the replacement themselves, than getting the 4K option (+ $200 in Dell). I don't know if that DIY solution would void their warranty or not, but there are no stickers in the display, so putting back the original before send it back to Dell would solve the problem (I guess)

 

Pretty sure once you disable optimus in the Bios no OS will see the igpu.

 

If the bleed is not bad enough to return it (be aware I neither inspect the displays or set this threshold) then it would not be a repair but a tweak.

If it's the inherent bleed of the display then nothing much can be done, it may be that atcr is sensitive to the brightness gradient as most panels I have seen have very little bleed with no pressure.

 

I'm guessing that's something within the OS "blocking" the iGPU, have you tried with Linux ? (running lspci)

 

Once the notebook is switched to dedicated mode then the IGP is no longer hooked to any display outputs so the chip itself is likely aware of this and shuts it off.

 

That's really unfortunate, I was thinking that it would be possible since it works in the desktops but is a different platform after all

By the way, since you work at Sager (assuming from your nickname), do you know the differences between the P650RG and the P653RG-S ? That model is on sale on AVADirect and Pro-Star but Clevo (Taiwan) has no information regarding it ...

 

deleted

 

What got me interested in the P653RG-S model is this:



And this:


As you can see, the first indicates the presence of a MXM slot, and the second one that the battery is removable since no internal battery has this format and, why they would be selling it if it's not compatible ? Are they false advertising ? (To be honest, that's what it looks like)

 

An inferior product is quite different from a product with quality control issues. Additionally, that would absolutely void Sager's warranty as it states in part-

"This warranty does not apply if: (1) the product has been damaged by accident, abuse, misuse, or misapplication; (2) the Product has been modified without the written permission of Sager; or (3) if any Sager serial number has been removed or defaced." .

With use of such broad terminology, you are at the mercy of Sager.

 

There you go again, pointing fingers instead of addressing the core issue. WHAT??? So now, you are suggesting there is a correlation between brightness gradient and backlight bleed? Are you taking your customers for fools?? Even more astonishing is that you are also suggesting some people may be "sensitive" to the brightness gradient?? Is that some sort of a Brightness Gradient Sensitivity Syndrome (BGSS) that are common amongst Sager owners? OMG...sensitive to brightness gradient as a contributing factor of backlight bleed...now, I've heard it all.

 

No doubt about it, I was just saying that it not that odd... of course I wouldn't do it myself but suppose you want an specific display panel that's not being installed by the manufacturer, you could ask them for permission so that the warranty stays valid but in the end you would be the one doing the replacement at your own risk, with permission or not