Official Sony VAIO F Series Owners lounge

It REALLY has to be dark for mine to come on so it's my little square piece of electrical tape for me. Might go to a arts and crafts or hobby store and look for a little circular piece of tape to put over. About size!

 

In anticipation of the arrival of my new F I downloaded the manual and the reference to the Sony Backstage PC Services at local Sony Style stores caught my attention. It sounds very much like the Apple Genius support in their stores. Since I am not buying my new F directly from Sony I wondered if I could use the Backstage service. I called and the answer is yes. It costs $99 for a one year Backstage Pass. You get unlimited software help. I also have a 3 year old Vaio AR which was a CTO pc. I can buy a pass for this computer. I have some issues with the AR that I have never been able to solve.

Has anyone used this service and have any comments?

 

You didn't catch that part where I wrote that my friend was told that Sony REFUSED to replace a computer under a "third-party" Sony ADH because it wasn't purchased at the same time as the computer?

Try this since you now have the Provantage Sony plan: call Sony's Tech Support line advertized on the Sony site (separate from the one from Provantage which might be different).

When you go into the triage it will ask you if you have a Sony plan or another warranty plan. You apparently have both a Sony and a Provantage plan, right? Try both, using your new Provantage Sony service plan number and see if it is recognized at both or only at the "other" line. Then ask both whether ADH is in force. Get a case number setup for each call and retain the number for each call.

If you get any waffling about their willingness to honor ADH, contact Provantage and tell them you will be contacting their state attorney general and the Better Business Bureau in the state of their headquarters (as well as your own) for fraudulent advertising. And since Service Net is listed as their agent and source, do the same for Service Net.

Notice you can't hang this on Sony because you didn't purchase it directly from Sony. That's where Sony believes it has found the "loophole" to not honor the third-party (actually, fourth-party) ADH: Sony sold its ESP to Service Net who sold the plan to Provantage who sold it to you. Sony isn't formally (or legally, as far as I can tell) a party to what you bought from Provantage.

My friend actually had Sony not "recognize" the Sony ESP plan number (from Sony, not a Provantage plan) -- and she had to get Service Net to tell Sony that Sony itself had initiated the plan and it did indeed exist (that took time, of course).

So, you see: Sony isn't just unprofessional in the matter of its marketing of the ESP plans, both directly through Sony and via third-and-fourth-party vendors --Sony is INCOMPETENT concerning its handling of the plans, as well.

The self-contradictory SonyStyle site ESP announcement (is the ADH purchase limit the time of computer purchase or 30 days later?) -- which the Website disclaimer "covers" anyway so that Sony has no liability for the statement either way -- makes the reigning confusion "clear" from the start!

Let us know what happens when you try the experiment suggested above. If I were you, I'd rather take the time and have this clear now than when/if the computer falls and the screen cracks, for example.

Good luck!

 

Just noticed today on sonystyle.ca that the 1920x1080 full HD screen paired with the GT330M GPU is "no longer available for purchase". I heard a few days ago that they were available for shipping some time in June. It would appear to be the Full HD screen, because when I select 1920x1080 and GT310M it does the same thing. Anybody have some input/advice on what the heck Sony is trying to do with the F laptops?

 

Been looking at this model for awhile, comparing it to a Dell XPS 16. I am leaning towards the Sony F mostly because of the slightly larger screen size. Overall, it seems like a very good machine. My question is, is the model sold at Best Buy (VPCF115FM/B) as good as one ordered through SonyStyle? What are the drawbacks of buying one from BB as opposed to ordering, assuming I'm happy with the configuration of the BB version?

Thanks!

 

This is probably a silly question (given the HDMI and cinema surround sound output of the F11), but does this laptop have a dedicated sound card or just a sound chip integrated onto the motherboard?

If the former, what is the name/technical-reference-name of the card? I ask because I'd like to look up information about it.

 

If you like the config, go for it. I've bought two computers from BB and my F's a CTO. Buying from BB you get to bring it home with you. Cannot think of a downside.

 

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I just bought the VPCF115FM/B from BB a few days ago. The only real disadvantage is you get a preconfigured model. That aside, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages. We bought the 3 year black tie warranty. Meaning BB will find a way to fix it or replace laptop. Salesperson at BB said that they won't send it back to Sony for repairs. Which means if they can't fix it in store to your satisfaction, they replace it with a new one.

 

@Derrida

Thanks for taking the time to inform me about testing the validity of the Sony Service Plan I purchased from Provantage. I wish I had purchased earlier so that if there is any question about the Provantage plan being honored I could return it and just buy the Sony Style 3 Year Express Ship w/o ADH. Unfortunately my 30 day period expires today.

Do you think it would be a good idea to purchase a Service Plan from Sony Style just in case the Provantage plan falls through? I would have 60 days to get a full refund from Sony. That way if after calling the tech line I find that the Provantage plan is legit I get a refund for the Sony Style plan. If it's not legit I get my money back for the Provantage and keep the Sony Style plan.

 

It's a realtek chip onboard. The F11's sound system is actually considered very good.

 

I just hooked up some external speakers to my F and am hearing a noticeable crackle sound when the volume is up. Anyone having this issue or have any input on this topic please?

 

Possibly the same issue for those who have the "Fan always at 100%" issue after a Windows Update:

http://forums.cnet.com/5208-19681_102-0.html?threadID=381177

 

Absolutely. And if you put it on a credit card you might not even have to pay for it before it's cleared.

The problem is: How do we know if we can trust Sony's word? Look at how they're handling my friend who is posing the same questions? Stonewall.

Maybe also nailing Provantage and Service Net would be a good idea. Try calling Service Net directly would be my suggestion, as well: http://www.servicenet.com/contact.aspx

Keep us posted -- maybe you as a customer in the situation of holding both warranties can force them to actually define a DIFFERENCE legally between them.

Good luck!

UPDATE: Just got an email from my friend who says that a Service Net honcho replied to her today and has assured her that both Sony and Provantage ADH plans will be honored if they are purchased within 30 days of product purchase.

 

Whoa, wait. They refunded you...tax? What was the total refund?

That is very likely the speakers. Do you notice it when the built in speakers are on? If not, definitely the external speakers. Return them for some new/better ones.

 

Hi guys, just after a bit more advice before i put my order in for my F11 today or tomorrow

I'm going to be using the F11 for social/internet use, minor gaming and basically as a desktop replacement.

1. I was just wondering what would be better to get, the i5 or i7 processor?

I know now the i7 has a better display, but is the improved performance and display worth the extra £200.

2. Also, considering what the laptop would be used for, is it worth getting the 128GB SSD hard drive over the 500GB 5400rpm hard drive? Considering the SSD is £190 more.

Any views would be much appreciated

 

I've learned something here. I got lazy and instead of looking into the issue I just kneejerked and posted. They are a pair of Bose Companion 2 speakers ( under $100) and after disconnecting from laptop they still make a crackle at close to max volume. Connecting did increase the static a bit. My apologies. Not an F Series issue.

 

External speakers are rarely an issue with the computer in the first place.

 

+1 to this suggestion. The fatwallet forums do this well.

 

Hi I am a UK F11 owner. I have sat down with it for significant time nowonly recently as I am on holiday.

I have read about complaints of buzzing and morse code .

I have noticed on my F11 a particular sound that is rubbing me up the wrong way.

It is a beeping-like whistling/whining sound. It is not very loud , with the TV on I might not notice it but in a quiet room it is annoying. I wonder if this equates to the morse code sound people have complained about.

I have tried the mic mute fix but this doesn't help.

 

I have managed to record this periodic whining sound I am getting as a voice memo on my iPhone, I can hear it being played back.

I will try to post it as an attachment . Although it is not loud, it is relatively unremitting and kind of irritates the way that chalk on blackboard can, although that is putting it a little strongly.

I don't synch my iphone on my F11 so unless I can find a way to email it to myself, it could be a couple of days before I can post it.

 

Unf when I upload it is saying memo.m4a invalid file. I presume this website does not accept that type of file. Any pointers please anyone to convert it and try to repost ?

 

Good news! I think I will still check through sony tech support to make sure my Sony Provantage warranty is properly registered and validated.

 

Ok got a tip from a guy here, I have uploaded it as a zip file.

Now when I play it back on my F11 , although I turn the volume up I can't hear it. But I definitely hear it played back on my iPhone as the memo.

If you can't hear it then try connecting earphones and playing it back.

The clicking you can hear is me typing a little. But the whining is there as well as the fan noise. BTW I recorded from a position on the left of the keyboard , near a vent.

 

I am still debating whether to go for the 3-year ADH warranty from Sony or not. From your perspective, why would you think it is worth an additional $330 ? I will spend the money but only if it is truly worth it. Thanks.

 

After a lot of run around, Sony is refusing to pay shipping for my return, because:
"...your LCD screen on your notebook it is very common to have a few dead pixels. Sony Style will not pay for return shipping on this order. If you wish to still return your notebook please send it to..."

Makes me want to buy something else

 

I do not think there is a laptop manufacturer out there that has a no dead pixel guarantee. Sager and some of the other higher end gaming laptop companies offer one as an option for an additional hefty fee.

 

I know, that sucks. Is there anyone here who would not return over a dead pixel? Just curious.

 

I was only willing to spend $200 for an extended warranty and wanted 3 years so that left two options:

1. 3 Year Express Ship with ADH from Provantage
2. 3 Year Express Ship without ADH from Sony

I am not willing to pay $330 for the 3 Year ADH from Sony, but I did want ADH. That's why I chose the Provantage Service Plan. I'm careful with my laptop and it will be used almost exclusively at home, but for me ADH is peace of mind.

Once I get the Provantage Sony plan in the mail I will register it and then contact Sony Tech Support to verify that it is valid and will be honored. I thought about also purchasing the 3 Year Express Ship w/o ADH from Sony just in case there was an issue with the Provantage one because today is the 30th day that I've had the notebook, but realized that since I would not be purchasing a service plan with ADH from Sony I have 180 days instead of 30. That gives me plenty of time to make sure the Provantage plan will be honored. I would not have kept both plans long term, only one.

Derrida's recent update about his friend finally being told that Service Net has assured her that both Sony and Provantage ADH plans will be honored if they are purchased within 30 days of product purchase is a relief.

 

So, I returned my original F11 to Best Buy. The fan seemed stuck at 100% speed, whether I was in Linux, Windows, or just the GRUB boot selection screen. It took some convincing, but I finally walked out with a replacement F11.

The replacement had a green dot sticker on the box, something that was not on the first box. I can confirm that this unit does not exhibit the mic "morse code" issue that my first unit exhibited.

Further, the display is a step up. Not a giant leap, but gone is the very obvious washed-out lower eighth issue. While the new display seems just as picky with viewing angle, it's a much more even contrast when viewed at the perfect angle. It's still somewhat more annoying than previous laptop displays I've owned, but I'm more satisfied with this one than with the one it replaced.

Curious note: CPU-Z is showing that there are two different DIMMs in the machine: a 2GB Hyundai and a 4GB Samsung. I know that there's no issue with this, but I'd love to know the supply chain decisions that go into spec'ing a laptop.

 

If you look in this thread there is someone who has a stuck green or red one on the side. If it's in the middle of the screen it would upset me, but honestly, I could live with one on the side. Look for Joe Bleau's message that includes a link to a pixel massage. Also, you can return for no fee and reorder I guess. My spacebar key is squeaking as I type, nothing is perfect. Put it into your life's perspective ( how important is it really to you) and don't make the decision today.

 

This is the EXACT same sound that I have. Thank you so much for posting that sound clip. I also tried to capture the sound by video on my digital camera, but yours is better quality, my original post was on page 198 - post # 1979 and 1980.

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?p=5799637&highlight=facebook#post5799637

You can hear the "whistle" if you turn up the volume and try to ignore the regular "whirring" noise of the fan.

I sent my laptop in for repair to have it fixed. I got it back and the sound was STILL there. I had to send it back again. It has been 2 weeks now and I am still waiting for my "repaired" laptop to be returned. I was told I would receive it some time next week. Hopefully the sound will be gone.

 

I cannot locate a sound manager for this system such as

http://es.brothersoft.com/screenshots/src/65/7d2a6648de254865ac105eba72a5e3f9.png

or similar. Do we not have one?

 

Glad to be of service to the community, and that you posted. It dawned on me that something was stressing me out and wearing me down ... And I identified it as being this barely perceptible but pervasive whining sound. I will be keeping in touch to find out if they truly fix it for you, as I am determined to pursue a fix for mine. I adore the f11 in all other regards.

 

Why did you not mention this in your first post about the fan being stuck @ 100%? That's an important "detail".

Did you try to restore to factory state to see if it was really hardware or the tweaks you made?

The only way to fully restore to factory is to totally wipe out the HDD with the recovery discs & restore the BIOS to default.

 

Hi all,

I should receive my new F11S1E B from play.com next week. Please can you tell me if you can get a docking station for this laptop? And if not what type of power supply it requires?

Thanks,
Colin

 

As much as I do not wish this noise to be discovered by any others. I am also glad to hear that somebody else in this forum has the same sound that I have been hearing. This is my first laptop, so I was not sure if it was a "normal" sound, but it was definitely driving me crazy and I would have returned it for a full refund if that is the way it was supposed to sound.

I will keep you posted and let you know if it has been fixed as soon as I get it back. Believe me, I have been trying to be more than patient with Sony support, but am wearing thin...

I agree that other than this "whistle" I adore the F11 as well

 

I've had the fan "whistle" from the beginning, and decided to wait until a fix is remedied officially. Although it does irritate me, I'm reticent to send my machine in until they know what they're doing; all that I've read & Sony has told me, that the fan needs to be replaced. Did they replace the fan?

I'm a "FAN" of the F11... no pun intended.

 

@poohkie
@Tausif

I have that intermittent whistling sound coming out of my notebook. It comes on after the fan kicks in past idling. I also had this in my previous one.

 

@wbglider

How did Sony tell you the fan needs to be replaced? did you send yours in?
It's noticeable when the fans start revving up.

 

I had a tech & a rep. tell me that it was a known issue that was hardware related, which required the fan replacement. They were unwilling to send a tech to me, stating reason that for CTO's tech's don't have a supply of parts. My reply was that if they know it's the fan just send the tech out with fan in hand, but no deal. I'm going to wait for now, I need the machine & I'm uncomfortable sending a brand new laptop in for repair at this point; will just deal with it for now. The sound is mostly present during idling speeds, but intermittant.

 

I wouldn't mess with a faulty fan. Now it's just noise. But what if it leads to heating problems later on?

 

Well...I think it worked for me because I just received my laptop.
Sony put it this way...Since I can return the laptop for full refund within 30 days...then reorder...it would be better to just give credit....
The customer service gave me credit without any issue...
Too bad...my laptop died completely the next morning.
I was jumping over joy...then so upset the next morning.

I just ordered the new one today...last day for free BD-ROM...

 

I don't think there is anything different...but I think you can get it cheaper from SonyStyles...if you call and ask for discount. They will first offer you 5% then if you keep asking...they will finally give you 10%. I just ordered my second one today because my first one died in two days...
I got the following spec machine for $1179 + tax.
Of course....you can just pick one up from BB...but you have to wait for build and delivery from Sony...

Product: US-VPCF1190X-LBOM
Component: No Additional Video Editing Software
Component: Intel® Core™ i7-720QM processor (1.60GHz) with Turbo Boost up to 2.80GHz
Component: 16.4" VAIO Premium Display (1920x1080) with NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 330M GPU (1GB VRAM)
Component: No Fresh Start
Component: Microsoft® Works
Component: No additional Photo Editing Software
Component: 4GB (4GBx1) DDR3-SDRAM-1333
Component: Blu-ray Disc™ player (reg.price $90.00)
Component: Norton Internet Security™ 2010 (30 Day Trial)
Component: Keyboard Backlight
Component: Large Capacity Battery
Component: Black
Component: No Engraving
Component: Genuine Windows® 7 Home Premium 64-bit
Component: 320GB Hard Disk Drive (7200rpm)
Per Unit Price: $1,179.99

 

I wonder if the noise I'm hearing is the same fan noise that others have all along. At first I thought it was constant, but I carefully monitored my F CTO from the moment I turned it on and realized that it doesn't come on right away. During startup there's what I think are typical startup noises - I can hear the hard drive, for example - and then after 2-3 minutes the noise comes on. It sometimes goes off and then comes back on, but eventually stays on as I continue to use the notebook. I can feel a very small amount of warm air coming from the vent all the time.

 

Question for anyone: Does custom laser etching/engraving void your warranty?

I know that Sony offers their own custom engraving (two lines of text) but does getting laser etching done after you have purchased your laptop void any extended warranty they might offer? I am interested in getting some etching done to personalize my F when I buy one but didn't want to void the warranty.

I would assume that since it is just cosmetic to the laptop lid and Sony itself does their own engraving, that it wouldn't but wasn't sure. I have an email into Sony to try to get an answer out of them but thought I would get NBR's opinion.

 

Let's put this in perspective: If you are in the States and you ship the computer via the US Postal Service, it will likely cost you no more than (and probably less than) $25 since the package is, what, 12 lbs. -- with no restocking fee imposed by Sony. (FedEx and UPS will cost considerably more; I once compared pricing on shipping another Vaio)

No matter what -- within the first 30 days of your order -- Sony will take that computer back, no questions asked, full refund. Some companies will take it back for that single pixel, but for all other reasons, there would be a 15% restocking fee. $25 is a lot less than 15% of over a thousand dollars.

So, just think of the shipping as a pizza party you missed, send it back and get another one ;-).

 

YES! They stated this very clearly to me when I ordered.

 

My understanding is that it is simply a final sale, no possibility for exchange or return (except for defect), but not that the full warranty would not apply. However, I don't think the engraving is warrantied, i.e., if they ever have to replace the notebook, Sony will not engrave the new one.

"Please make sure your spelling is correct as shown. Engraved notebooks cannot be returned. The 30-day return period does not apply to engraved products. These products may not be returned for refund or exchange unless they contain defects in materials or workmanship or are otherwise returnable under applicable warranty provisions.

Sony's VAIO notebook limited warranty does not cover replacement of engraving. In the event your engraved VAIO notebook receives service under Sony's limited warranty or any extended service plan offered by a third party, use of necessary replacement parts may eliminate the engraving on the notebook."

- from SonyStyle in CTO More info on engraving links

WAIT: I get it -- you want to have someone else engrave it. No, no, no -- I wouldn't do that. You could damage the screen, perhaps -- and that would void your warranty.

 

I have noticed that some screenshots from CTO systems have Evernote installed. My BestBuy stock machine doesn't.

Evernote have said that they are looking to provide a binary. Until then, has anyone found the binary in the recovery discs? I am also very keen to hear opinions on its usefulness.

 

When you're right you're right