Samsung NP930X5J / NP940X5J ATIV Book 9 (2014) 15.6" Haswell announced Jan 6, 2014

Can someone with the NP930X5J-K02SE (Swedish, Danish and Norwegian version) tell me if the second SSD slot comes with socket already soldered on the motherboard? I am wondering, since the German and Italian versions of the X5J are sold without the socket, perhaps the Danish ones are too.

 

Been emailing both Samsung and retailer without any reply this week. Today I called Samsung instead, and the very friendly phone guy told me, they'd just been informed that the Danish version of the X5J does indeed(!) ship with soldered sockets for a second SSD.

So thats a go, for soldered sockets on the NP930X5J- KO2SE

Update 1: my retailer finally got back to me via email and said there are NO SOLDERED SOCKETS for the 2nd SSD. So I immediately called Samsung and got the same guy that had told me that this version has soldered sockets. He is going to thoroughly investigate the issue and get back to me on Monday. I will update you guys then.

2nd and last Update: The only -SE with a 2nd SSD option is the NP-RF711-S01SE. Unfortunately no other current Samsung laptop with the Swedish/Norwegian/Danish keyboard is sold with a 2nd SSD option.

 

I have 17.0.5.8 dated 6/18/2014 running on Windows 8 and haven't had any connection problems.

 

Perhaps 17.0.5. 8 fixed the bug in 17.0.5. 0? Or it does not affect Windows 8?

Here is more info about the Intel AC 7260 wifi driver 17.0.5.8, including fixes and known issues:
http://community.arubanetworks.com/...Driver-17-0-5-8-Bookmark-this-one/td-p/182228

 

Hi, I have few questions regarding this laptop:

1. How "glossy" is this laptop compared to MacBook retina? I generally hate glossy laptops (the ones that have mirror-like glossiness), but I can tolerate the glossiness up to the level of MacBook retina.

2. Do non-touch and touch version of laptops have same glossiness? I've seen some comments regarding that both version have same glossiness, but I have also seen from somewhere that non-touch version has low-reflective coating on it.

3. What is the best place to buy (online or offline) this laptop in US right now? Should I wait few more months until the build stabilizes?

Thanks you very much!

 

1. Same glossiness as the mbp.

3. I like Amazon.com

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

 

Engadget's review (timely )

Samsung ATIV Book 9 2014 Edition review: big screen, even bigger price

 

Thanks for the link.

BTW, I emailed Samsung UK a few days ago to enquire about the availability of the UK version of the NP930X5J and have just received a reply:

I suspect that means that they haven't a clue about the availability. The only positive sign is that NP930X5J-K01UK exists in the support database as well as in SW Update (which also lists a -K02UK).

John

 

I'm thinking you're right. I forgot, the US model is not an option for you? I guess the VAT would make it even more of a luxury item.

 

I have been watching a reasonably priced Italian version on Amazon UK but it's currently not available. The keyboard is closer to the UK layout but it has only one SSD slot.

I know from experience that my fingers don't like the US keyboard layout. I have an Indian version NP900X4C currently gathering dust because it has the US keyboard layout.

In reality my UK NP900X4C (with 1TB SSD upgrade) fits my needs better than something with a better display but lower capacity SSD.

John

 

Gotcha. Yeah no point for you really until they start shipping a 1TB m.2 EVO, as long as they don't sell out. I'd almost make you an offer on that Indian X4C, but I've spent enough on tech recently.

 

I just upgraded to the Transcend MTS800 512GB SSD ($265 from Amazon) for my ATIV Book 9 NP940X5J-K01US model.

I posted earlier that I had ordered the Crucial M550 SSD as upgrade, however, I changed my order to the Transcend when I saw the MTS800 released a few weeks ago due to power drain concerns regarding the Crucial drive.

SSD Power Tests:
-------------------------

Below are my overall power draw results (measured using HWINFO64) for pre- and post- SSD upgrade. My test procedure was as follows: reboot, wait a few minutes, turn LCD to lowest brightness, turn off keyboard backlight, reset power statistics in HWINFO, idle for 5 minutes while power is being measured and averaged, report power drain results from the 5 minute test period. I ran the test with airplane mode both on and off for each SSD configuration.

Samsung 128GB SSD (factory configuration)
Airplane Mode Off: 3.026W (avg), 2.544W (min), 6.861W (max)
Airplane Mode On: 3.093W (avg), 2.544W (min), 8.763W (max)

Transcend 512GB SSD (upgraded configuration)
Airplane Mode Off: 3.601W (avg), 3.048W (min), 10.215W (max)
Airplane Mode On: 3.390W (avg), 3.041W (min), 5.539W (max)

Based on this result, Transcend SSD appears to consume 300-575mW more power than Samsung SSD. Power draw be higher for other reasons (I have a lot of background processes running) so it's hard to say. A persistent increase of 450mW should take 25 minutes off an 8 hour battery run-time based on 62WH battery. I'm happy with this result given the bargain price for the MTS800. Also, if DevSleep works (it is supported) then battery impact may be small over time.

SSD Upgrade Procedure:
----------------------------------
- ZTC M.2 NGFF SSD to USB3.0 external enclosure
- Samsung pre-installed Recovery software (for Windows 8.1)

I used the ZTC M.2 NGFF SATA SSD to USB3.0 external enclosure ($25 from Amazon) to clone my Samsung SSD to the Transcend SSD before making the swap since my ATIV9 has only one SSD socket.

Samsung's pre-installed Recovery software makes cloning a breeze -- just choose "Copy Drive" option and you're all set. I also verified that support factory image restore transfers correctly (i.e. pressing F4 at boot still works on my new drive).

When connecting the ZTC enclosure to the computer, the enclosure's SSD does not automatically show up in File Explorer. However, this is not a problem as the enclosure SSD is nonetheless automatically recognized by Samsung Recovery software. (I believe you can get the enclosure's SSD to appear in File Explorer as well by manually assigning a drive letter to it).

After removing the bottom cover from the ATIV9, I found the SSD located below a small metal plate situated between the fans and battery. To access the SSD, remove the two screws holding down the plate and then carefully pry the plate up. The plate is held down by two connectors on either side so it takes some firm pressure to get it up. When replacing the plate after swapping the SSD, you also have to press firmly to re-seat it properly -- the connectors give an audible "snap" when reconnecting.

One more thing -- the Samsung SSD is populated on only one side of its circuit board, whereas the Transcend SSD has chips on both sides. Thus, the rectangular pad found beneath the Samsung SSD should be peeled off to allow space for the Transcend SSD's added thickness.

I would post some pictures to demonstrate the SSD swap process, but it seems I don't have the posting permission to upload attachments.

 

Thank you very much for posting this information which will be very helpful for others considering taking the same step.

I can't explain why you couldn't attach some photos. There is a minimum post count threshold to make life more difficult for spammers but I would have thought you were over this limit. By the time you have discussed your results you may be over the threshold and can then add the photos.

John

 

hi,

I'm looking to replace my Lenovo T400 (Yes...damn old laptop lol)

I'm on the fence btw this Ativ 9 15.6", vs the Dell XPS 15 and the upcoming Asus NX500

Use:
Excel, Photoshop, generally office work.
And er...maybe on occasion abit of DOTA 2? LOL

Priority:
EXCELLENT screen. I do photoshop and lightroom quite often.
Battery Life
LIGHT.

I'm not too sure on the QHD screens of the XPS 15 and the NX500 though. I'm using a Dell U2410 24" on 1920x1200 and it's perfectly fine for me. I'm actually worried about those QHD screens being a unnecessary burden on the battery life.

I'll appreciate if you kind folks can help me in deciding

 

I would share your reservation about the QHD displays but more because of residual display scaling issues than the extra power consumption. However, display scaling may not be an issue if you only use the latest versions of software where development is still ongoing (I've got some old programs that I still use from time to time).

Both the XPS 15 and the NX500 carry more weight than the Book 9 (2014) but they also include a discrete GPU which might be a feature you value. You can compare the graphics performance using Notebookcheck's Mobile GPU benchmark list. However, a beneficial side effect of the Samsung's modest power rating is a very portable 40W PSU which will reduce the travel weight compared to the other two.

I took a quick look at the NX500 and was repelled by the silver keyboard / keyboard surround. A black keyboard with white lettering is much easier on the eyes.

John

 

Much like Kai2810, I'm debating between this and the NX500.

I really like this new Ativ Book 9 because of the slim profile and ultraportability.

However, the only concern I have is the Intel i7 ULV dual core processor. I haven't had any experience with these types of processors before so not sure what type of work load it can handle.

Would it be able to handle watching really high quality videos? either on the SSD or streamed through the internet.

For those who has the laptop, have you noticed any instance where the machine struggles?

 

I have never seen my NP930X5J (i7) struggle with either playing videos (Youtube, Netflix)
or even editing videos in Sony Vegas Movie Studio Platinum 12.

(On Netflix, the CPU runs on about 50% capacity.)

I haven't seen it struggle with any app more than my Thinkpad W520 workstation. (I don't play video games though.)

 

Well...don't think I should bother myself with QHD scaling issues since 1920x1200 is good enough on my 24" Dell, don't think it will be an issue on a 15.6". Looks like I just answered my own question haha!

Not having a GPU is not an issue, since I have my own 1+ yr old PC at home for games. Will be doing this for work only.

I just realized that the NX500 covers 99% Adobe RGB like my Dell U2410, which to me may be an issue since I do photo work. Then again I still prefer my 24" over a 15.6" for photoshop/lightroom work.

Well...looks like I'll just call Singapore's Samsung office to inquire.

Thanks John :thumbsup:

 

the ATIV Book 9's screen can display 98.2 percent of the sRGB color gamut, which is significantly higher than the 80.3 percent mainstream laptop category average. However, it's just slightly better than the Toshiba Satellite P50T's 87 percent and slightly behind the Dell Inspiron 15's 103 percent.
Samsung ATIV Book 9 (2014 Edition) - Full Review

"Adobe RGB is irrelevant for real photography. sRGB gives better (more consistent) results and the same, or brighter, colors.
Using Adobe RGB is one of the leading causes of colors not matching between monitor and print.
sRGB is the world's default color space. Use it and everything looks great everywhere, all the time."
http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/adobe-rgb.htm

 

Also see NotebookCheck's review of the NP930X5J which is quite complimentary about the display.

John

 

I am now running version 17.0.5.8 of the Intel AC 7260 wifi driver and it seems to work OK.

EDIT: I spoke too soon. Connection problem persists. I rolled back to version 16 again in Device Manager

 

John,

I just came across your post about Samsung discontinuing the Ativ series.

I don't suppose their warranty and support will stop right?

http://forum.notebookreview.com/samsung/744974-samsung-discontinue-laptop-pcs-ativ-books-2015-a.html

 

They would struggle to escape from their warranty obligations without completely disappearing from a country but they have too many other products to want to do that. However, they have already stopped selling notebooks in some countries which, I presume, is so that the date when they can terminate their local notebook support arrives a bit sooner.

Given that many notebook parts are now sold on ebay and (with the exception of keyboards) are shared between different versions, spare part supply should not be a major worry once the warranty is finished.

John

 

I imagine on this model in particular, that has seen very limited release, there may not be a surplus of parts in the future. Biggest concern would be the battery. My X3G has a 3-year warranty, but only one for the battery. I may pick up a spare, just in case (knock on wood).

 

I've seen third party batteries advertised for some of the older Series 9s so I wouldn't worry about that aspect. Others will step in once the notebook is a couple of years old. Other parts may be a greater problem but that can be addressed by dead notebooks being dismantled and sold for spare parts. The internet makes it easy to link sellers and buyers.

John

 

I am on the look out for a laptop that is free from backlight bleeding and dead pixels. I figure the np930x5j is my best choice for that end. Samsung has a pretty good track record when it comes to quality control.

If the np930x5j that I have ordered is shipped with backlight bleeding and/or dead pixels, I will take the plunge and get a macbook pro instead. At present, the price of the mac is what is keeping me away from it. But if it means I get a pc without defects, I would certainly pay the price. Because if dead pixels appear within the period of warranty, Apple will either repair or exchange. Which is something samsung does not do.

 

Having used my NP930X5J daily as a desktop replacement for the last 3 months, I have not noticed any backlight bleeding or dead pixels.

I'd say, go for it! You won't regret it!

 

I finally bought my NP940X5J through microsoft online to get a 2 year warranty. I'm loving it so far, but I have a small issue. When the laptop is on a hard surface (desk, etc) it is not stable- one of the pads on the bottom must be higher than the other 3. If the laptop is on my lap or carpet its fine, but on my desk its so annoying to type on since it keeps wobbling. Any suggestions? Should I take it to the microsoft store...would there be anything they could do? It seems silly to get a replacement for something so minor, but its also frustrating to have an issue typing on a computer I spent $2,000 on. Should I make make-shift pads?

Thanks for your advice.

 

I had this problem on one of my older Series 9s.

My fix was to unscrew the base then bend it outwards at one or both (can't remember which) of the pads where the base was wobbling. The base is quite thin and vulnerable to small distortions during manufacture.

John

 

Samsung ATIV Book 9 2014 Edition 15.6-Inch Touchscreen Laptop (Intel Core i7, Mineral Ash Black) by Samsung at Amazon.com

Also, how does it compare with http://www.toshiba.com/us/p50t

 

You cannot upgrade the RAM because Samsung used a soldered dual channel memory module.

If you want more than 8GB then you have to get the previous generation 15" Book 9 which has two SODIMM slots.

I will leave the owners of this notebook to make comparisons the Toshiba notebook.

John

 

The Toshiba P50t weighs 5.1 lbs vs 3.9 lbs for the Samsung. You can get the P50t with 16GB of RAM. The Toshiba's has a highly reflective 4K display and its battery life is only 2 hours 47 minutes.
Toshibs P50t Reviews:
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2158...w-the-first-laptop-to-boast-a-4k-display.html
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2459777,00.asp

If you want the lightest laptop with a 15.6" 1920x1080 screen and the longest battery life, the Samsung NP930X5J is the best laptop on the market today.

 

Hi! Do you guys have sleeve covers for your series 9 notebooks? Where did you get them? Im looking for one that has a snug fit and wont add too much thickness to the unit. Thanks!

 

I bought this one for my NP930X5J: Sleeve for Ultrabook 15" Colore Second Skin - Tucano (BFCK15-AX) in grey.
It looks nice, fits very well and don't add too much thickness. I bought it a local shop.

Regards, AEOne

 

I didn't want a neoprene sleeve. I bought this one. It looks great and it is a perfect fit. It is made out of a canvas material. It is padded, so it adds a little more thickness than a neoprene sleeve, but not much:
Amazon.com: GMYLE(R) Sleeve Nylon for MacBook Pro 15 inch & Macbook Pro 15 inch with Retina Display - Khaki & Olive Green Soft Sleeve Bag Case Cover: Computers & Accessories

 

And if you are looking for a great laptop bag that perfectly fits the NP930X5J / NP940X5J and has an exterior zippered compartment for your phone, power supply, etc. I use this one:
Amazon.com: Sony IT VAIO Casual Topload Case - Black (VGP-AMT1C15/B): Electronics
and I love it.

 

Whilst on the subject, another good lightweight bag with an outside pocket is the Samsonite Network bag but it seems to have been discontinued. However, it's no substitute for a simple sleeve if the requirement is to provide basic protection for a computer inside another bag.

John

 

For some basic protection a Size #5 Bubble Mailer works great as a sleeve. Cost: about 75 cents:
Amazon.com : Scotch® Bubble Mailer 7915-25-CS, 10.5 Inches x 15.25 Inches, Size 5, 25-Pack : Envelope Mailers : Office Products

 

Hi

Can anyone point me to some writeup/video about this computer that is:

1) By someone that has used this computer personally for some period of time in a serious manner.

My impression is that most reviews are done by "pros" these days and is done in a manner similar to the following scenario:

There might be good resources available, I just did not find them. Thanks

 

Check my posts and photos in this thread. I have used this computer for the last 3 months - 8 hours a day on a daily basis as my main computer / desktop replacement / on the road computer.

Summary: The best personal computer I have ever owned. Period.

(Also the "Best Kept Secret in the PC world" due to Samsung's lack of marketing. Samsung is sitting on a gold mine and does not seem to be aware of it.)

 

1. So P50t is more suitable to use in the shade at home?
2. How does the NP930X5J compare with MBPr in battery life, resolution, and color, and weight?

 

Battery life is similar.

MBP has a Retina Display (chesk out my photos with a side-by side comparison:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/sam...ll-announced-jan-6-2014-a-21.html#post9637248

I couldn't see much difference. I like the fact that there are no scaling issues with the X5J 1920x1080 display.

NP930X5J weighs 3.9 lbs - MBP 4.5 lbs

If the MBP were optimized for Windows, I would have gotten the MBP, despite its extra 0.5 lbs - because of the 16GB RAM and faster SSD.

 

Been reading through this thread, great resource.

One question, can you hook on two external monitors?

 

So looking at the specs of the Ativ Book 9 Plus i7 vs the Ativ Book 9 15.6" 2014 Edition i7, the specs are almost identical.

Anyone have experience with both to share their opinion. I'll be getting either one in a few weeks. smaller form factor and a high res screen or bigger screen but lower res with better battery life.

 

What is the weight including the power adapter?

 

NP930X5J Weight. 1.8 kg Power Supply: 0.183 kg.
http://bit.ly/1nUD83a

 

haha ironically enough, the topmost hit is my question in this thread.


Weight of notebook: 1,78kg
Weight of standard 90W power adapter: 0,61kg http://www.samsung.com/us/computer/pcs-accessories/AA-PA1N90W/US
Weight of SLIM 40W power adapter: 0,31kg http://www.samsung.com/us/computer/pcs-accessories/AA-PA3NS40/US
Weight of SLIM 90W power adapter: 0,42kg http://www.samsung.com/us/computer/pcs-accessories/AA-PA3NS90/US

So where that guy got the 0,183kg from is beyond me...

 

Yes, two external monitors should be no problem. See this post and the discussion around it.

Member huberth ("that guy") owns this laptop, is a regular here, and one of the most avid posters answering questions in this thread -- as surely your must have noticed if you really read through it. I could think of more courteous ways of asking him to confirm the weight of his power adapter.

But then, I could also think of more courteous ways to answer your question than a concealed Let Me Google That For You link. There is a reason why those links are prohibited by the NBR word filter.

And with that, I suggest we leave any further snark behind.

 

Yes I know about huberth's answers and he has been most helpful to me. I was actually referring to what I assume is huberth's source, which is the second hit on the google search he pointed me to. ( Samsung ATIV Book 9 2014 (NP930X5J-K02DE) Ultrabook Review - NotebookCheck.net Reviews) I see how this was not clear from my post.

 

I see, thank you for clarifying. No worries then