Official VAIO Z Core 2 Duo Series Owners Thread

Just finished putting in Intel WiFi Link 5300 AGN (half-height) purchased from Puget Systems. It took more effort than HD replacement - had to remove a lot more stuff to get to the place where original 5100 is located. As a bonus, I put third antenna in. Took some imagination to route it but everything works and I'm very happy. I hope I won't have to disassemble this laptop again. I'm done with upgrades. Whatever engineer came up with this design must have seriously mastered Lego when he was 1 year old or so )))

 

Did you take pictures of where the placement of the card is? If not, take it apart again so that we can see it

 

It's on the left right on top of the ExpressCard slot. I routed the third antenna similar to the original black-wired antenna first: up, around the fan. Then I directed it towards area under touchpad, going between HD and keyboard connectors on the way, looped there and directed up again going between keyboard and DVD connectors, then turn right. I realize that it stays in horizontal plane all the time but it's still better than just two antennas. By the way, 5100 AGN supports only two antennas, and I could not find any half-height WiFi card other than Intel 5100 and 5300.

It just hit me that I have not touched CPU yet so another disassemble might be coming

 

Having read most of the links, it seems that the driver in question is related to Vista (ie, a generic driver), which simply means Vista is playing up. I highly doubt it is a hardware problem - seems people with Intel cards are experiencing the same problem. Personally, I don't play games like WoW or Counter Strike etc etc (don't find them intriguing as so many others say they do... maybe something wrong with me -_-* ?) which seems to be the main reason the error comes up. But then, I don't get these errors often (happens very rarely, like the rare Windows crash; yet to experience one on my Z still...)

I don't think we should worry too much about the graphics issue.


Umm... Just wondering, I already asked this, but to keep this on people's minds. Has anyone tried installing the XP Sp3 disc onto their Z ALONGSIDE the original Vista installation (meaning, has anyone got both of them dual-booting?)?

Cheers in advance

 

Hey Guys,

Any info about an upgraded video card in the next Z-series?

 

Just got a 13.3 inch Macbook Pro in hand.
Even the MBP has a new screen, the Z590's screen is still way better. In Transformer trailer, I am able to see more detail on Z.

 

See this thread.

 

I guess a new refresh on the Z is underway. Didn't Sony just update the US site with the Z690 CTO just a few months ago? Now, I see that the VGN-Z7xx's are underway. There's a list of all the new Z7's on that site. Not sure how each is configured though.

 

The fact that VGN-Z7xx are not much different from VGN-Z6xx might mean we could flash 7xx BIOS into 6xx. At least I'm going to get updated drivers and utilities.

 

It's nothing to update - all drivers & utilities are the same as for Z6xx.

 

Already checked - they are not the same. At least for Windows XP. For example, Sony Notebook Utilities for 7xx series is 10 MB larger, contains newer components. The version for 6xx was missing Power Management (although it was listed on description page). Shared Library is updated. So, it was worth checking.

 

Sorry, I don't use XP. For Vista they're the same.

 

Ok, I'll bite. These are for Vista.

6xx series Notebook Utilities:
* Battery Checker 3.1.0.08280
* Setting Utility Series 4.2.0.10150
* VAIO® Event Service 4.2.0.11060
* VAIO Control Center 3.2.0.09120
* VAIO Power Management 3.2.0.10310

7xx series Notebook Utilities:
* Battery Checker 3.2.0.12180
* Setting Utility Series 4.3.0.14120
* VAIO® Event Service 4.3.0.13190
* VAIO Control Center 3.3.0.12240
* VAIO Power Management 3.3.0.12190

6xx series Shared Library version is 5.2.0.08220
7xx series Shared Library version is 5.3.0.11240

Not the same. And it looks like there multiple builds of software between these versions. So it continues to evolve.

 

I use Japan and European Vaio update sites. You will find there newer utilities versions as on american update site, e.g. VSUS 4.3.1.0420 instead of the "new" Z7xx Setting Utilities 4.3.0.14120.
Therefore for me "all quiet on the Western/driver front".

 

@Visioneer
But you were answering my post about drivers/utilities for VGN-Z7xx vs. VGN-6xx.

Whatever is good for you, just don't mislead other people that read the thread.

 

I'm deeply sorry, it wasn't my intention to mislead other people reading this thread.

 

So I finally took the plunge and got the very best vaio series. So far no regrets. Its... damn... this is the fastest laptop I have ever had the pleasure to witness first hand. I have no fears about rebooting because its lightening quick. Only flaw right now is the fact that I am a vista noob and it pains me not to find a completely compatible VLC player or Firefox for a 64bit vista processor. Oh well. IE isn't looking too bad as of now...

I will post pics of this awesome laptop at a later time for anyone interested (or if interest is shown).

These are the current basic stats.

Sony VAIO Z-690 Series @ Intel Dual Core(2) CPU P9600 @ 2.66GHz / 4.00GB RAM / 126 by 126 Solid State / Windows Vista ULTIMATE 64Bit / BluRAY. I think it has a L3 8M cache or whatever. This set me back $5,000 if you add in the ridiculous sales tax at $400 and a few accessories at about $200.

Granted I could have waited for a possible Refresh Z series to make stateside from the asian market its completely unnecessary. A 2.66 processor speed is amazing in itself for a laptop and I am not looking to go any higher than that. More ram is unnecessary and a high solid state drive capacity? Right. As if SSDs aren't already stupidly expensive they have a 512GB SSD. Hehe.

This laptop is sexy. So sexy. I thought my lenovo X61 was dope but this sony vaio Z690 blows it out of the water. As if the "awesomeness" factor wasn't enough, my Samsung UN46B7000 Series LED TV outputs the vaio in its pure glory. I probably burned through $8k if you include the 46inch. Once again money well spent and I won't be replacing or selling my samsung or sony for a very long time.

UPDATE: Just put in Spybot and I have to say I am pleased. This processor vaio has continues to impress. On my lenovo, the immunization process took roughly 10mins or so to finish. But in vaio with the robust IE it took a measly 2-3mins to get done immunizing. Amazing stuff. Oh yea.. Spybot + Onecare = win.
I wonder how I can get any form of trojans or malware now. It seems almost impossible with those two going neck to neck.

 

Hi all...

After trying a Z 1600x900 and returning it because of the too high res (*sigh*) I'm planning to grasp a Z with 1366x768 display but, after reading about the palmrest issue (the screen can be scratched) I fear a bit goin' on.

Is it a real issue? I mean, if I put the Z in a decent bag for the transport and if I don't sit on it, it it always possible for the screen to get scratched by the palmrest? Or is it caused by an "heavy" use of the machine?

I cannot decide between the Z and the new SR refresh. The Z has a very nice screen (the SR is a bit bluish), the SR has a better keyboard for fast typing (IMHO) and a better connector placing (all video/audio is on the same side of the machine) and, apparently, a better graphic processor (ATI 4550?)... but the Z screen is so cool... *SIGH*

 

well I have mine since OCT 2008, no issues with scratched screen. But if you're concerned about this, you can buy some screen protector, something like this ( http://www.shaggymac.com/) and put it over your keypad when closing laptop. This will definitely resolve any future issues. You can also use regular microfiber cleaning cloth (you can get this in any market).

BR
Miki

 

Same here. Had my Z since October 2008 and no issues about the screen getting scratched. I do have a the privacy filter from Sony on though.

 

No offense, but that's the worst reason on earth to return a laptop. All you need to do is adjust the DPI of the laptop to something other than Vista's (stupid) default setting of 96 DPI. Review other posts in this thread for the proper way to do this.

Nope. I've had mine for 3 months or so and no scratches whatsoever. I do, however, keep a cloth between my keyboard and the screen because I'd like mine to last for 3 years, which leads me into higher-than-usual precautions. It's a very simple thing to do, and literally only takes a single extra second when shutting it down and putting the laptop away.

 

Ok.. I have got a minor issue with my Z540..
Sometimes when waking the machine up from sleep the mouse-pad do not work at all - after looging out and in it works fine again..

Everybody else got this issue? (i am on vista business 32bit SP1)

 

You didn't offend me at all
I tried changing DPI, lowering the resolution (argh), lowering backlighting etc... but in all cases I never being able to stay in front of the screen more than an hour without headhache. I tried many and many times to get accustomed to the screen, and cried when the UPS man closed the box and took it away. I'm getting old

If the cloth is enough to prevent the issue, that's right. I seen that a cloth was included in the Z box but did not suspect that there may be such issue at all.

 

Uuderzo maybe its time to get glasses? I have the same laptop and the resolution is simply no problem for me in the least bit. I don't know where all these complaints come from. Its wierd.

 

Maybe I simply don't want to admit I begin needing glasses
When I started using LCD screens I get amazed that I could look at them for long time without headhache. This was because I was able to discern every single pixel square. Now if I look at a CRT I cannot work for too much time. Each pixel is soo faded... With this display I had the same sensation.

I want to be clear. It's an amazing screen. I don't want to say the countrary. But if I spend so much money, I want something that makes me feel good. And for me it's too much PPI. So, if someone else gets accustomed with this resolution, then go and buy it, it's great. But too bad I don't get accustomed to it.

Anyway, this is the Z thread, not my glasses thread

 

@uuderzo:
I noticed that default brightness (full) is too heavy on my eyes. Maybe that's what was causing the strain and tiredness on yours?
I find that having brightness level 4 is the best for me and only turn it all the way up to check colors when I do photo editing or design (just temporariliy and quickly get it back).

 

I find it depends more on the ambient light level which setting works best. Outside - full or near. Indoors with low lighting - no way can I look at this on full power.

S

 

does anyone know when will be available the new z on us site?
thanks

 

Should be a valid reason that a lot of people make. DPI does not fix a lot of things, like font sizes, I suggest reading some of arth1's posts here about it.

In my opinion only, I only really noticed the difference when comparing it to a 1366 x 768 model. When using the higher resolution model, it felt fine to me, but when comparing it to both then moving back, my eyes start to strain. It's not that the higher resolution is uncomfortable, it's that the normal resolution is more comfortable. Not everyone is the same of course so it varies from person to person.

 

Absolutely, I was actually (less directly) trying to point to those very posts with my reply. My only point was that all changeable settings should be altered before returning the laptop - rather than just deciding based upon it's stock settings.

Of course, in the end if no changes can make it comfortable to read (including buying prescription lenses ), then it doesn't make any sense to shell out that kind of money. There is no laptop - nor could there be - that's perfect for every use nor every person.

 

I totally agree about the maximum brightness setting; it's blinding (just about) in anything except very bright settings, like outdoors on a sunny day. Since I use mine mostly inside under moderate lighting, I usually keep it set to 70%. Anything more than that and I, like you, find it hurts my eyes.

 

Hi there!

I'm looking for a new notebook at the moment, and it might well be the Z21MN/B. The trouble is that I am pretty suspicious about the battery life specifications. I just want to make sure that the 6 hours battery life in stamina mode are not some developer's wet dreams but a fact. Can anybody verify that?

 

Uhm... I tested a VGNZ35X unit for about a week, and let's say that *MAYBE* you can reach 6 hours by letting it idle. So, better turn it off, the battery will last longer

In my tests the battery lasted a maximum of 4 hours with moderated use.

Anyway, consider that I did not perform many charge-discharge cycles. Maybe the battery can last longer with better initialization.

 

Just after updated SP2 and all sony update via vaio update, include new bios for my Z71JB asian version P9600...
* i notice whatever i run the WEI won't change if i change stamina to speed. Before alway had 3.8 on stamina and 4.4 on speed but now wont refresh anymore... just a cosmetic issue but just want to know if it happen on yours?

*About SP2, z seems more efficient but the last bios update change the fan control the fan run even bellow 40 degree (38-37) but now more reactive and adapt the fan very gradually ( no step like before). Fan should run from 40 on your?

 

The fan should always run in modern notebooks. Unlike workstations, where an internal air stream can be caused by convection (heat rises), a notebook depends on there being at least a minimal internal air flow to avoid "hot spots" -- single components that overheat because the air stands still.

So yeah, it should run even when cool, but slow enough that you shouldn't hear it.

That said, there's also three fan modes in the Vaio Z -- "Silent", "Progressive" and "Performance", if I remember correctly. The recent update to "Setting Utility Series"[*] may have reset that to the default, "Progressive". If so, hold down S1 or S2 for a few seconds, and the Setting Utility Series should pop up, allowing you to change it (or assign an S key to change it).

*: "Setting Utility Series" is a stupid name for the hardware controls applet - it might make more sense in Japanese.

 

Also, in VAIO Power Management you can set several settings regarding fan operation: Fan Control, Thermal Strategy, System Strategy. This allows you to balance toward quiet or toward cool operation.

 

Um, no. A Lithium battery will not benefit from this -- rather the opposite. You need a single charge cycle to full to let the charging firmware learn what the max capacity of the battery is, but no more. After this, it's best to never let the battery drain completely.

 

Thanks a lot arth1 and zugzug for your comprehensive explanation about fan strategy in vaio Z, since i am not english native spoken neither japanese, i will take a look to the setting. Your right since i updated the fan run on progressive way. I always use the battery plan to managed performance and heat. So my vaio is japanese one, can read some informations but complicate to apply, if someone can post a screenshot of this part that can help to compare with "Setting utility"

 

No one else has noticed the touchpad sometimes not work when waking the z from sleep (vista) ?

 

In Vista Power Options you need to select power plan then select Change plan settings. From there select Change advanced power settings. Then there will be VAIO Power Management tab with various advanced settings for thermal management as well as for powersaving strategies. Note that this can be configured differently for different power plans. So you have a great deal of flexibility.

 

I don't believe you can quite get the full 6 hours without any system tweaks and CPU undervolting. However, I was able to get around 5 and half hours of battery life on a full charge with Vaio Max battery and silent fan settings, half brightness, and the doing basic web browsing, reading PDFs, and working on Word. After 4,5 months of owning the laptop, the battery life has gone down to around 4 and half to 5 hours. This is partially my fault though, as I used it as a DVD player under direct sunlight on my road trip a couple weeks ago. The heat pretty much fried the battery... I really just noticed the decrease in battery life after that incident...

Hope this helps. You really can't find another 13 in laptop that's this powerful and weights only 3 and half lbs.

btw. I have the Z690 with P9600 (2.66 Ghz) and 4gb ram, and the factory installed Hitachi (7K320) 7,200 rpm, 320 gb HDD.

Nope, I've never experienced any problem with my touchpad in either vista or windows 7.

 

So I take it 690 users had 0 problems installing windows vista? This was the only thing that made me nervous when purchasing this laptop. I see myself keeping the laptop for a solid 3-4 years.

 

I agree it strains the eyes at 100% and working indoors.
But when I work with photos, I prefer 100%, as the colours come out so much better.

 

Anyone know why the SSD upgrade on the Z is so ridiculously expensive compared to for example dell's SSD upgrade?

 

Because it is Sony (kinda like Apple tax )

**Disclaimer**
Before you try and flame me please note that I have a Z520 and love it!

 

It depends, are the SSDs the same quality? Not all SSDS are built the same, some are extremely fast while others are not much different than an HDD.

 

Sony uses high quality SS disks from Samsung. They have reliable performance (if not the fastest on the market) and a proper controller (unlike most SSDs on the market). It looks like Dell uses a 256GB drive from Samsung in its XPS 13 model, though it costs $325 above the base configuration in the US. The Sony configuration I'm using now is also Samsung 256GB, although there's a custom RAID 0 controller combining 2 128GB drives to get this, therefore it should have better performance. This cost about $400 extra here in Japan, and I think $75 extra for a striped configuration is reasonable. AFAIK only Sony does this.

 

I wonder if this will eventually allow us to plug 8 GB of RAM into 6xx series.

 

I think a 2.5" 256GB SSD is cheaper than 2 1.8" 128GB drives. And as you said, there's the additional cost of the RAID controller. But it would be nice if Sony would start giving the option of one 2.5" SSD.

 

There is no additional cost of the RAID controller at all-it's Intel chipset RAID controller and it's already on board.

Two 1.8" 128GB Samsung SSD cost less as one 256GB Samsung SSD in Europe.