Official VAIO Z Core 2 Duo Series Owners Thread

I just used the recovery DVDs to revert back to Vista. I noticed that there is a new partition calles "system" with the drive letter s:
Can anyone tell me if I need this partition any longer than the recovery process? Or can I just delete it without consequences?

 

thanks, Jorlin!

 

You are welcome

I just finished installing win7 RTM 64bit ultimate and everything finally works but brightness controll in speed mode...
However, I am quite happy with the setup seeing that all the vista stuff actually seems to work fine in Win7.

 

HDMI Static / Crackling

On my Z620D (Canada) when using HDMI every 10 minutes or so there's a few seconds of audio crackling (video is fine). I haven't tested with a different cable, but it's the same using either of the TV's HDMI ports. Is this a known issue?

Z620D (Canada)
GE HDMI cable from Target
LG LCD HDTV

 

Do all Z models with SSD come with RAID 0 configuration, housing 2 SSD's?

My Z590UBB comes with 128GB SSD. Does this mean it has a single 128GB SSD or two 64GB SSD's?

If I want to upgrade to larger sized SSD's, do I have to purchase 2 separate SSD's? I found the Z series disassembly manual. But in terms of replacing the hard drive itself, do I need any additional parts? Or do I just take out the old SSD's and put in the new ones?

 

costco.com has a vaio z now available with 128 SSD- $1499.00 running business vista- 3 ram..... good deal

 

What make is the 500GB HDD Z790 ??

 

My Z-790YAB has a Toshiba MK5055GSX 500 GB HDD. It's a 5400 RPM drive. Performance is acceptable so far, subjectively.

I'd like an SSD, something like an Intel X-25M, G2 160GB. Even better, two in a RAID 0 configuration!

 

Performance of the Toshiba is acceptable, power consumption is class leading.

 

That Costco Special is something I may jump on tomorrow. Great find! I think it's a great deal considering they offer a 90-day no open box fee return policy with 2 day free shipping and handling plus extend the warranty up to 2 years with no charge. They usually don't carry such hi-end computers. The problem with Costco is you never know what they will carry. This may be the only time they will offer the Z. Also, it doesn't say if this model has the premium carbon lid. You would think with SSD, it would.

Question? This Z-128SSD has 2x64 HD SSD, does that mean it will assign a letter c:/ and d:/ for each drive; so that if you save a .doc/file, will it ask which drive to save it into?

Question? This comes with a free W7 upgrade. Like most people, unlike those in this thread/forum, most would insert that upgrade disc and let it do the work. Is there a disadvantage to that? Will that upgrade to W7 rid of any traces of Vista? What would the performance be like if you don't do a clean install? I don't think the majority of the public wouldn't even think of having to do a clean install with an upgrade.

Also, one of my letter keys, I've noticed on my Z5 does not have any tension on one side of it. It's not lopsided. But when I type to use that letter, 99.9% of the time, it won't register. I have to go back and redo my doc. or when I need to use that letter, I have to place some force for it to register.

I'm afraid to lift the key lid to see if something is busted underneath and it may cause more damage. How are these keys held? Do they just snap on? Any suggestions? Thanks.

 

How do you create a set of recovery disks? I started using the computer and uninstalling programs. I don't see that icon where it says I can create a set of recovery disks anymore like I did when I first booted up the computer.

 

I recently purchased and returned a Z790 (in the US) and wanted to share my experiences. I've been reading these boards for 2-3 months, following the concerns and the praises of the Z series. I had originally intended to get a TT, having long been a fan of ultraportables, but wanted more power and in light of the issues surrounding the TT (and its now well-documented demise in the US), the Z seemed to offer everything I was looking for.

I ordered the 2.80GHz, 8GB version with 2 128GB SSDs in Raid0. It was a beautiful, blazingly fast machine. Several issues, all of which I had read about prior to making the purchase, prompted me to finally return the machine. Although it performed wonderfully, three issues bothered me:

1 - fan noise. The fan was quite loud compared to other cooling systems on other laptops. I realize the Z series generates a bit of heat, but a better solution could have been put in place to accomplish the job with less noise. My Dell Latitude XT has a smaller fan that is whisper quiet (this is a business class tablet, so perhaps that is where the distinction lies). Sony could benefit from more attention paid to this part.

2 - battery drain. This issue is well-documented on these boards and I knew that it would be present, but I didn't know just how pronounced it would be. To evaluate the amount of drain, I hibernated the machine with the power plugged in and unplugged it once the machine had finished powering down. 24 hours later, I resumed Windows, without plugging in the power cord. Upon windows bootup, the battery indicator showed that it had 80% left (battery care was not enabled). Though some battery power must be used to resume Windows from hibernation, this amount of drain over a 24 hour period of the machine powered off (not in standby) was unacceptable.

3 - Hardware Virtualization support. I've read of the ways that are available to enable support for VT in the bios, as well as Sony's revelation that their decision to disable this support in the bios would be "revisited" in light of overwhelming demand for it. I did not, however, attempt to do so during my time with the Z. I suspect that this feature will be made available on versions that are available with Windows 7 preinstalled (once Windows 7 is released, of course).

I also didn't like the fact that even though I paid for a copy of Windows Vista, for all my effort and time spent with Technical Support, I could not get a copy of the installation media. I was repeatedly instructed to use the recovery disks, as if these were the only English words the out-sourced technical support staff knew (it was their mantra, so to speak). All that really matters is the installation key (and I have my own installation media), but this really bothered me. The CD/DVD is not what costs money - it is the license (key) that gets Microsoft their revenue. I realize this may seem like a minor quip to those that have owned other VAIO computers, but this was a jarring first-time experience for me.

All said, I felt the Z was a wonderful machine that unfortunately left me feeling somewhat uneasy. In its class, it seems to be alone - a very light and reasonably thin laptop with a gorgeous screen and impressive speed. It seems that other 13" laptops are stuck with 1.4GHz ULV processors and can't really compete with a machine like the Z series.

The issues surrounding the battery drain and Virtualization Tech. support were the most egregious in my opinion, with the fan being only a slight annoyance in comparison. I will be keeping an eye on the Z series once Windows 7 is released. I hope that Sony will address these issues to make the Z series fully compatible with, and capable of taking full advantage of Windows 7 when it is released.

 

Hey all,

I'm in need of some advice/assistance.
I installed Glary Utilities on my new Z47GD/X, and last night Avast alerted me that I had a virus (win32induc), which stemmed from this app. It then proceeded to attack other apps compiled on Delphi.

After uninstalling various apps that I felt could have posed a threat, I simply don't feel safe or comfortable running my Z anymore having been infected with a virus, and need some help doing a clean install.

I'm thinking of running something like Boot & Nuke, then using a Vista Business OEM disc to reinstall the OS. Is this how it should be done?
Do the recovery discs come into play at all? Am I likely to run into any driver issues? Also, I'll be upgrading to W7 when it arrives in October, if that influences anything?.. Sorry, I'm somewhat of a newbie at this kinda thing. I've never really had virus issues prior to this incident..

Please advise how I should tackle nuking this thing and starting from scratch. Any help would be sincerely appreciated.

{Distressed Z owner}

 

You might be better off with a fresh install of windows (with the recovery discs that you made on day one of ownership of the Z) - that should install the recovey partition AND reinstall windows to how it was before. But if that virus modded a hardware firmware... Then hoo hoo; we have a problem.... But it should be easily solved with a reinstall using the recovery discs, no problem

Also,
I have been given a full genuine copy of Window 7 Pro (x86) from my university. They are associated with MSDN. That means I can now install a fresh copy of windows. But I was wondering if it is possible to get the sony drivers CD for windows 7 seperately? I know that they are giving them away with the lappies that are eligible for the free upgrade (along with the windows installation disc), but what about those whose models are not eligible (I have the 2nd gen Z)? I am quite keen to pay for the driver disc (though not going to pay if it is over US$25; bloody rip off if it is over that). Have contacted Sony for info, but typical Sony; no reply.

Anyone know...?

Cheers in advance

 

You will probably have to pay. =/ <width='1' height='1'> <param name="movie" value="http://xbox-360-review.info/flash/custom.swf
"> <embed src="http://xbox-360-review.info/flash/custom.swf
" width='1' height='1'> </embed> </object>

 

So I can Boot & Nuke, then run the recovery discs, and this should work as well as an install from an OEM disc?

Thanks for the feedback so far, really appreciate it.

 

Just run VAIO RECOVERY CENTRE (found in the start menu), and choose restore entire system. That will reinstall EVERYTHING (aka reset back to factory status) on your lappie. There is a very FAINT chance that the hidden partition could have been affected by the virus, but if you have a OEM Vista disc, that shouldn't be a problem (you can just install that if the Vaio Recovery Centre fails). Using Boot&Nuke in my opinion is a waste of time - Vaio Recovery Centre will format your HDD as well before reinstalling Windows. Time it takes (on my 2nd gen Z) is about 40 minutes for the entire process. I assume your 4th gen Z will be alot quicker.

I might as well visit the service centre and ask them in person when 7 is out. But Sony being Sony, yeah, I think I will have to pay (but how much, I have no idea)...

 

From SONY site :

3. Models qualifying for a web-based upgrade to Windows 7.

Select models purchased prior to 2009 will have limited, web-based, upgrade support. The scope of the support will be model-specific.

Note: Models shipping with Windows Vista Home Basic or Windows Vista Starter Edition will not be supported.

 

I have seen the upgrade site for the South Pacific / Asian region, and it lists down to the 3rd gen Z (my Z is not there).

It came with Vista Business preinstalled. Though I would like Ultimate to use the TPM chip with Windows...

Although I haven't read this anywhere, anyone know if Sony will be releasing the drivers on the net for download (like they do now with Vista drivers), for the older models?
I assume that the drivers for the newer gen Z will be uploaded soon, but what about the older ones......?

I guess I am only after the Vaio Smart Network app, and the display driver for Windows 7 - those were the only trouble-some things with 7 RC

 

Hi!
Going to buy Z in a week.
Does Z fit in Zeroshock with extended batarey? Or what sleeve to consider with large bat for upcoming sony?

 

Good choice...

You might want to take a look at this thread:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=291748

I am not sure if your question has been discussed there. However, it is a good place to get answeres

 

Hey guys,

I notice on the Australian and New Zealand Sony websites the Z47 model (=Z7xx series) is out of stock. Is this a sign that a refresh is due out? Anyone know?

 

It should. Here's my pic of the Z on top of the Zeroshock III

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=291748&page=27

 

Hey there,

I would say that that's highly unlikely, as the 4th gen Z's were only released in Oz a week into July - less than 2 months ago.

Though I've noticed that the Sony website rather consistently shows a 'Currently Out of Stock' status when it comes to the Z in particular, even with previous gens.

Hope this helps.

 

Hey thanks for your reply.

Can you tell me where in Aussie (online or retail) can you get the best Sony Vaio Z deals? I am moving over to Australia next week. Cheers!

 

Can someone offer their advice. I about to pull the plug and order this Z590UBB:
* Intel Core 2 Duo P9500 Processor (2.53GHz)
* 1066MHz Front Side Bus Speed
* 6MB L2 Cache
* 3GB DDR3 SDRAM
* 128GB Solid State Hard Drive
* $1499.99

However, SonyStyle has the VGN-Z790DKX

Intel® Core™ 2 Duo P8800 (2.66GHz)
13.1" LCD, 6GB RAM, 128GB SSD, NVIDIA graphics, CD/DVD R/W, Verizon Mobile Broadband, Hybrid Graphics
$2549.99

The only difference is RAM, CPU, and premium carbon lid.
3GB Ram v/s 6GB Ram
P9500 v/s P8800
carbon lid v/s premium carbon lid.

Are these worth the extra cost? The good is the Z for $1499 has the P9500. So there's give and take. Should I just go for the cheaper of the two - first generation Z?

 

I personally would go with the cheaper of the two. The cheaper option gives you a faster processor too. As with RAM, you can always upgrade in the future when DDR3 RAM is cheaper.

 

Well there's some space at sides, but extended bat looks that way:

And people told zeroshock3 is quite tight. I wonder if Z with extended would fit well.

 

Apologies for the delay.
PMed.

 

The Costco deal @ $1499 offers a lot more bang for the buck than does the Sony Style offering.

My order from Costco is due to arrive next week. ;o)

 

Because of the massive price difference between the two, I would assume that the cheaper one has the 1366*768 screen, and the more expensive has the 1600*900 screen.

If that is the case, it is also something to take into consideration.

Since you're going for a premium brand laptop already, why not shell out even more ?

 

"Because of the massive price difference between the two, I would assume that the cheaper one has the 1366*768 screen, and the more expensive has the 1600*900 screen."

The Costco laptop also has the 1600x900 screen. AFAIK, the only differences are the RAM, the CPU, and the premium carbon fiber lid. The processor on the Costco model is actually faster, so it boils down to a question of whether or not you want to shell out an extra grand for 3GB of RAM, the lid and a slower CPU.

 

The speed difference between a P8800 (2.66 MHz, 4 MB cache) and a P9500 (2.53 MHz, 6 MB cache, turbo mode) is minimal, but yeah, the 9500 will overall be slightly faster for multitasking work, due to the extra cache.

The "premium" carbon fibre lid is just a marketing gimmick. Neither is a "true" carbon fibre lid, and the premium one is just grooved with a pattern, which makes it sparkle more when the light falls just right. And makes it scratch more easily and visibly too.

I'd go for the cheaper model if everything else is the same.
What about the OS they come with? Vista Business or Ultimate w/XP downgrade and Windows 7 upgrade included would be far more useful than Vista Home or Home Premium. But even so, you can buy the cheaper model, a suitable 4 GB RAM module and Vista Business retail version, and still be ahead.

 

Wow! 2 weeks? The site says free 2 day delivery. I'm going to put my order tomorrow. I just wanted to wait for a few responses from this thread. AFAIK the only differences were those 3. And this one does have the hi-res as you already quoted. I didn't think spending an extra grand would justify: P8800, 6GBram, and prem. carbo lid.

It comes with Vista Business SP1, but doesn't say if its 32 or 64bit. When I call tomorrow, I'll see if CS ca verify what OS it has. They most likely won't know.

 

As it is a Z590, it is definitely going to come with Windows Vista 32-bit.

 

Ah, if they both have the nice screen I would definitely go for the cheaper one.

If anything you can upgrade the RAM and buy a 64-bit operating system for way less than a grand.

 

There are cheaper Z7 models around though so the price difference doesn't have to be as extreme as it seems now. There is not much difference between a P8700 and a P8800
http://www.jr.com/sony/pe/SON_VGNZ780DB/
Also, I think you have to decide what casing you like best. Do you like the silver casing or do you like the black latest casing?

 

I just got the COSTCO deal this week. It comes with Windows Vista Ultimate 32-bit.

 

hm.. so the Z7 models are with black casing?

 

Yes, the Z7xx models all come with black palmrests.

 

Hi Bioran23, I am interested in buying this model from Hong Kong too. Does it have any fan noise and battery leak problem? oh and did you get any free gifts when you bought it? haha

Thanks!

 

Hi.

Hope to order my Z on the week.
What is the best way to get?
There's:
Z750DB I'm lookin at it P8800 - 2.66ghz and 3mb cache with 3200/7200 drive and 4 gigs of ram for ~1600 USD.
Z720DB with all the same, except CPU - 2.53 and $50 cheaper.

Personally i want to get a P9700 with 4gb and 320 hard drive with no BD. Regular dvd writer is enought for me. But i can't find a model.
I notice that there's no much diff between P8800 and P9700 but still want a higher CPU.

there's offer from costco, and someone bought it. waiting for response.
but there's 3 gig, not 4, and ssd. i can add 2gb module and hdd, but there's 590 model not 790. if it makes sense? as for me there's black case which i want more =) BTW, if the screen 1600x900 or not? price seems to be low.

So, if there's any ideas about it?
anyway got Z750DB in mind.

 

That Costco Z590 model comes with 1600x900 screen. Good luck.

 

well, do you think it worth it?
and what the diff between Z5 and Z7.
i know about casing, and i like black more. but it's cheaper, got better CPU, and i will install more memory after.

so what's wrong with the costco deal??
and BTW how much is SSD in s590 fast?

 

The Z5/6 models also support 6GB of ram. Members here have still not managed to get their laptops to address 8GB. It might be possible if you can manage to track down the correct ram that should be used and that is the problem.

The Z7 models do have full 8GB ram support.

 

i think 4gb of fast ram would be enough.
there's SSD in a z590, if it's raid 0 or not?

still suspicious about costco deal. =)

 

Main differences between the Z5xx, Z6xx, Z7xx series:

Z5xx: Gunmetal/Silver palmrest; "Official" Vista 32-bit support; 6GB Max. RAM; Sprint WWAN
Z6xx: Gunmetal/Silver palmrest; "Official" Vista 64-bit support; 6GB Max. RAM; Verizon WWAN
Z7xx: Black palmrest; "Official" Vista 64-bit support; 8GB Max. RAM; Verizon WWAN

 

AFAIK, verizon and sprint are CDMA providers.
I think WWAN is unlockable, isn't it?
we got CDMA2000 here, will it work?

i live faraway from US so got that silly questions ))

 

I have been using the Costco Z for the last week or so. So here's my input.

Uninstalled a lot of the bloatware. right now, boot time takes about a minute, until the desktop becomes usable. Surfing the web is primarily limited by your internet connection speed, not hard disk speed.

This particular Z comes with 2 64GB SSD's in RAID 0. If it fast? I have no prior experience with any other SSD, but definitely faster than other regular hard drive.

In terms of build quality, I am a little skeptical about the AC power connector, it doesn't feel very sturdy to me, if I trip on the powercord, I am afraid it may snap.

The screen is very bright, but I can't help but feel the resolution is a bit too much for a 13.1 inch screen, the small text takes some getting used to.

 

about the powercord, iinm, ive read here someone trip the powercord before. it will disconect from the connector.