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    Official VAIO Z Core 2 Duo Series Owners Thread

    Discussion in 'VAIO / Sony Owners' Lounge Forum' started by DiscCollector, Jul 15, 2008.

  1. ThreeD

    ThreeD Notebook Evangelist

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    so can someone confirm about the problems on the nvidia cards on the Z? is the 9300 gs affected?
     
  2. LimitProof

    LimitProof Notebook Consultant

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    So far, it's not on the list of affected GPU chips (the confirmed G84 & G86, nor the newly rumoured G92 & G94), but it's tough to know just how far-reaching the problem really is since nVidia is being annoyingly silent about this whole deal. That said, SZ users (with the 8400M switchable with integrated) seem to see less failures possibly because usage patterns make the heat cycles less pronounced (since users only switch to dedicated if they want to game) - so depending on what you plan to use a Z for, even if the 9300 gs is affected, it may not fail on you.
     
  3. jpoe

    jpoe Notebook Guru

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    To start, I don't think we have any evidence yet (as far as I'm aware) of this issue on the Z; however there is a supposed battery leak issue that has been around with the last few released Sony lines, and already there are several owners of SRs posting about it in these forums.

    The issue is that the laptop will continue to lose power, even when it's shut off. As an example, you might charge the laptop to 100%, take it off the charger and turn it completely off (not sleep mode), go to sleep and when you wake up in the morning and plug it in, it will be down to 84% charge. Now from most of the posts I've read in these forums, all of the current SR owners experience it, but to very different extents.

    For example, a few of posted they experience around 1-5% over 24 hours (which isn't even really a problem), however there are others that have posted that its more like 15% over 24 hours on their machines, and there is even at least one guy in the forums who says he gets 15% over just a few hours, but my guess is he just has a faulty battery. To read a few of these posts, simply look back over the last few days - no need to use the search function.

    Again, I in no way mean to be shouting fire about this issue, and it may not even be a problem with the Z. Just something I mentioned as its being discussed in a few other threads and is again something I'm reconsidering about my order.

    IsamuX, if you could comment if you've experienced any of this, I would be very interested.
     
  4. Metsn

    Metsn Maiku Hama Yokohama

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    Thanks for answer about the keyboard :)

    So you have bought the Ultimate separately? I'm still curious if it's possible to use the license from the Japanese Ultimate for the English one....
     
  5. rocketsr71

    rocketsr71 Notebook Enthusiast

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    thanks IsamuX!

    Can you comment on whether the 9300 is DDR2/3? Can you see if it has enough battery life to play back a full dvd movie (using the drive bay). And if it is not too much trouble... :rolleyes: ...can you see if it will run America's Army ( free game)? (while in the game hit "~" then "stat fps")...if you need an in game login (don't feel like registering a S/N). I can provide one for you!

    You're posts have been so far very helpful. And by the way things are going you might actually convince me to get one :D
     
  6. nickzx6rr

    nickzx6rr Guest

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    Well we have to wait and see. My current notebook (HP dv6382) also has got the affected nVidia GPU chip, and it has been on repair twice in little less than 12 months :mad:

    My HP refuses to bootup if it does find an error concerning it's GPU. Therefore I hope the Z doesn't refuses to bootup in case of a GPU failure, and use the intel integrated gpu instead. But I do not know if this is the case.

    Probably we have to wait (much) longer to get any information or user experiences about this whole situation, because of the fact that the Z isn;t even shipped in a lot of countries...

    After this second breakdown of my HP notebook due to again a faulty nVidia GPU, my eyes are set on te Z. But with these rumours of a probable (?) failty nVidia GPU (derivative...) I don't quite know if I should go for it :confused:
     
  7. faberge

    faberge Notebook Geek

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    Well SonyStyle HK have finally released prices for the Z Series:
    http://www.sonystyle.com.hk/ss/product/vaio/index_2.jsp

    I can't seem to see if it has WANN though, on the spec list for the VGN-Z17GN/B I can't see it. If it does have it, does anyone know if it will work in the UK?

    The price is a lot lower than the UK, it works out as £1371.06 in HK, £1749.00 in the UK.
     
  8. bbasra

    bbasra Notebook Evangelist

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    Oh boy, possibly faulty GPU's and battery leaks. :-(

    This would be a Deal breaker for me!

    And

    :mad: :mad: :mad:
     
  9. ac500

    ac500 Notebook Evangelist

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    Thanks for the info. The Z's cooling efficiency is a very important factor to me, so I'm glad it's keeping cool :)

    Although I'd really like to know how well it keeps cool unmodified (with the dust cover) on battery saving mode, and possibly when set on a soft surface like a bed (but I guess I'll probably have to wait for more reviews for that :) ).
     
  10. InfyMcGirk

    InfyMcGirk while(!(succeed=try()));

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    Err... the problems with Nvidia GPUs have been pretty well publicised and there are umpteen threads in this forum regarding Vaios losing their battery charge whilst 'switched off'.

    Also, the fact that prices are cheaper in other countries should come as no surprise unless you've never compared prices between UK vs US vs Anywhere Else before? :confused:

    The GPU issue can arguably be mitigated if you mostly use the IGP. Unless you're a keen gamer, I don't see why you'd choose to use Speed mode anyway, as battery life is much worse. And if you're a keen gamer, why are you choosing a relatively weak GPU in an expensive business class notebook?
    Then there's the fact that part of the problem with failing Nvidia GPUs is down to the cooling solution used by the OEM - and so far Sony laptops seem to be avoiding failures in large numbers. Either that or the reason we've mostly heard from Dell/HP owners is that there are hardly any Sony machines out there, which I doubt.

    Overall, I'm not sure why the :mad: :mad: :mad: ?
     
  11. Metsn

    Metsn Maiku Hama Yokohama

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    Finally I got answer to my own question in different topic and I decided to post it here, because it can be helpful for people, who'll order their Z from Japan....if it's really working so smoothly as it look like, I would call it the biggest Vista feature :)
     
  12. DTX

    DTX Notebook Evangelist

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    You need to use Speed Mode if you would like to use HDMI.
     
  13. InfyMcGirk

    InfyMcGirk while(!(succeed=try()));

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    Indeed you do. I suppose that's an issue if you plan to use it extensively hooked up to an external monitor... :(

    For Blu-Ray on a big screen, I reckon set top players will be a better bet if you plan to do it often (even if just for usability - having a good remote control and not having to mess around with wires and software).
     
  14. snipsey

    snipsey Notebook Enthusiast

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    I was hoping to get my Z11VN/B before this thread hit 100 pages - out of luck there then, latest delivery update is 25 Aug.
     
  15. InfyMcGirk

    InfyMcGirk while(!(succeed=try()));

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    ... which is a Bank Holiday, hence Tues 26th. Bummer, I know! ;)

    I think this is the first time ever I've wished we did not get that Bank Holiday. :rolleyes:
     
  16. -=ToRoNtO-GuYY=-

    -=ToRoNtO-GuYY=- Notebook Evangelist

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    I just phoned Sony Store at Yorkdale Mall, they said that a whole bunch of people are waiting for the the Z, even the Sony Store guy himself. And he said he has a big list of ppl on the waiting list, he put my name and number down, he also said there will be a first come first serve basis due to high demand. Now this is a good thing yet a bad thing, Good cuz higher demand=more proconfig options im hoping. Bad cuz there will be none left by the time I get there. :(
     
  17. snipsey

    snipsey Notebook Enthusiast

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    Fingers crossed for a UPS tracking number and a possible Saturday collection from the local depot :wink:
     
  18. Geeee

    Geeee Notebook Deity

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    Thanks for the explanation on: "Battery Leakage". I fully understand now. I never payed any attention to this, but I have noticed consistently that when I would fully charge my SZ7 at 100%, the following day, when I turned it ON, the battery indicator would read 92%. I thought that was normal, because my other notebooks, all from Sony, have also showed battery leakage.
     
  19. Geeee

    Geeee Notebook Deity

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    Yes, I would be curious to find this out too. The dust cover does serve a purpose. By removing it, how would you prevent or rather, how would you go about internally getting rid of dust trapped inside?

    I'm curious how many of you are now reconsidering the Z5, canceling your orders, or perhaps waiting for the next Z6 refresh in 6-9 months, I presume, due to this battery leakage and nVidia GPU issue? I was always told never buy a first production model on anything. Wait for the kinks to be resolved. But the sad of the matter is some of us have to be the guinea pigs that have to undergo all this troubleshooting before those that wait to play it safe, can fully benefit from these premature issues.
     
  20. faberge

    faberge Notebook Geek

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    Has anyone upgraded Business to Ultimate yet? I mean using Vista Upgrade, not clean install. I know there were some problems with SZ with the webcam, sound drivers, Sony Help and Support Centre disappears etc...

    I'm getting it in the UK so I can't get it without Business. I quite like the touches Sony puts in like the Sony Help and Support etc...
     
  21. Wolf04

    Wolf04 Sony Fanatic

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    I can answer that since that's exactly why I want to buy the Z.

    1. Like others have stated, I need the dedicated video card for HDMI to connect to my TV or an external monitor. Granted, I can easily use the integrated chip and VGA instead of HDMI, so that's not a problem

    2. This is my scenario. I go to university. I have classes and I move around a lot. I need a ultra portable machine that I can carry around easily and have relatively good battery for those long lectures. On the other hand, I also want this portable machine to be able to handle the occasional game since when I want to take a break and play a match of Unreal Tournament 3, I don't have to go to another computer. There's not another ultra portable laptop that is reliable and has a decent dedicated video card.

    And it has to be VERY reliable and well-built since it will have to last me at least 5 years.

    In the end, this Z will replace both my laptop and my computer listed in my signature.
     
  22. Jparity

    Jparity Notebook Evangelist

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    I wouldn't worry too much about the battery leakage and the nVidia GPU problem. The battery leakage is not significant enough to stop me from getting it. I knew the problem existed on the SZ, but I didn't "notice" it at all during my normal usage. In other words, you can probably see the battery leakage if you do repetitive tests on it, but you won't notice the leakage if you don't pay SPECIAL attention to the battery meter during your normal everyday usage. It's not like you are losing half an hour of battery life in every charge because of the battery leakage.

    Regarding the faulty Nvidia GPU, I didn't have any problem with the 8400 on the SZ probably partially because of its ability to switch between the 2 graphics cards. And the SZ doesn't run very cool either. So I'm willing to take the very slight risk of getting a faulty graphics card on the Z because I think the chance of having it overheat is extremely low. The 8400 survived on the SZ, why can't the 9300 survive on the Z, which should have better cooling?

    Plus, I really can't wait that long for the next refresh. How are they going to upgrade the Z anyway? Upgrade the processors and possibly fix the battery leakage? The only reason for me to wait for the next Z refresh would be if Sony upgrade the nVidia card, which I think is HIGHLY unlikely if not impossible. Plus, if Sony never actually fixed their very minor battery leakage problem in their whole line up, why would they fix it in a Z refresh? I'm sure they know their problem with the battery all along, but they are just not fixing it for some reason.

    I just don't think the refresh is worth the wait, I don't think we are going to see any major upgrades in 6-9 months... It took Sony almost 2 years (that's about right, right?) to do a relatively major refresh on the SZ.
     
  23. Jparity

    Jparity Notebook Evangelist

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    Why 5 years?... I'm just curious...

    Yea I see that you don't upgrade your computers very often. You know, quad core HP desktops are selling for like 600$ now, all you need is a 120$ nvidia 8800GT to play all the new games in relatively high setting.

    It's amazing how cheap those stuff are compared to 6 months ago...
     
  24. meteorstorm42

    meteorstorm42 Notebook Consultant

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    It's an expensive notebook, lol, I'd want it to last a long time too :)

    I'm also a college student looking for something really portable, but would also like to play some older games.
    It's kind of a pity about the GPU :(
     
  25. Manni

    Manni Notebook Consultant

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    Sorry for the OT, I'll be short:
    At this point I've only heard about official Cuda support in CS4/Next, but there seem to be some beta plugins for Photoshop CS3 here: http://forums.nvidia.com/index.php?showtopic=65609 Haven't tried them myself...
    Alternatively you can try to build them yourself: http://developer.download.nvidia.com/compute/cuda/Photoshop/CUDAFilters4.pdf
     
  26. Wolf04

    Wolf04 Sony Fanatic

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    5 years is the magic number. My Toshiba is crippled now and can only be used as a desktop replacement for the occasional music and web surfing but it still works and if a Toshiba lasted so long, I don't see how a Sony couldn't.

    Basically, it's like this, I don't want to buy a cheap, crappy laptop every 2 years or so like how most are built these days. And I find it it's very hard to find a good, solid laptop these days. They sure don't make them like they used to back in the day.

    As for the desktop, I don't want a desktop anymore. Let's say I'm sitting in one of my uni's lounge areas and I want to play a quick match. I can easily switch to Speed on the Z and play. I don't have to go back to my dorm room.

    During my first year of uni, my computer was at home and I could play only when I came home once in two weeks. Plus, I love building my own computer, so if I'm to get another one, I would get the parts and make it myself. The problem is that my current computer uses an AGP slot, so I have to practically change everything, just not worth it since it's so tied down. (see my previous paragraph about not wanting a desktop anymore)

    And getting two laptops (one ultra portable and a larger gaming one) is definitely out of the question, which leads me back to the Z. :p
     
  27. aamsel

    aamsel Notebook Evangelist

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    I totally agree. I went to Houston to see the Z on Sunday, and felt that the Z is simply a larger TZ. Very, very similar in feel to everything about it. They had a pre-release high-resolution screen version, and the huge surprise about the Z was the non-glare nature of the screen, something new for SONY in the past few years.

    Andrew

     
  28. aamsel

    aamsel Notebook Evangelist

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    I didn't realize the full situation:
    YES, they should just credit you the $100, absolutely.
    Otherwise, you could use the unit 29 days, return it for another, etc.
    They are being foolish to not simply credit the $100.
    I would ask for the most senior supervisor available in Customer Service, tell them the full situation, and ask one more time for the credit.


     
  29. Jparity

    Jparity Notebook Evangelist

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    d*a*m*n.... I just realized that all the REALLY nice 50 inch plasma TV's only cost around $2500...And they last MUCH longer than than 4 years...
     
  30. aamsel

    aamsel Notebook Evangelist

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    The problem is if it is an affected chip (and likely will end up being so), the "fix" being offered by manufacturers is currently a BIOS revision that speeds up the fan. Not a fix at all, just a band aid, and you end up with a faster, louder fan.


     
  31. aamsel

    aamsel Notebook Evangelist

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    Having seen it this last weekend, it is pumping a lot of heat out of the fan. The unit is not overall hot feeling, but it is, again, removing a lot of heat with a fairly fast fan. That is what concerns me, should the defective nVidia chip stuff be involved: if SONY has to do a BIOS rev for it, the fan would be very, very fast then.


     
  32. roycer

    roycer Notebook Consultant

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    Would the so-called 'defective' nVidia GPU in the Z effect me a lot if I never plan on playing games on it, except the occasional solitaire? hehe
     
  33. stevod

    stevod Notebook Evangelist

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    SketchUp..... AutoCAD..... Adobe Creative Suite..... Solitaire.....
     
  34. meteorstorm42

    meteorstorm42 Notebook Consultant

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    Maya..... CUDA-enabled Photoshop.....
    and I'm sure many other people will have many other uses
     
  35. kiwi61385

    kiwi61385 Notebook Enthusiast

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    does anyone know how to find information on what resolution different models of z's can handle for external moniters?
     
  36. Geeee

    Geeee Notebook Deity

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    I with you, I'm not a gamer, would this issue with nVidia affect us. Also, I may be using the Z for Photoshop CS3, Video Editing, and Illustrator etc. etc. I really should be buying an iMac for all this, but I just don't like the way their computers look. The ideal for me would be to get a Z, and install Leopard as my OS (not Vista); and all the other applications that Apple offers. Can this be possible and can it be done?

    Also, does anyone know if there's ever been a recall on any Sony notebook? If so, which models?
     
  37. meteorstorm42

    meteorstorm42 Notebook Consultant

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    You should be fine :) I doubt the graphics card will have any heat problems if that's all you use it for. (That's assuming that you are able to use the graphics card for CS3. CS4 maybe, but you'll have to see if there's some kind of separate CUDA plug-in for CS3)

    Not sure about installing OSX... I'd be worried about finding drivers, but maybe I'll let someone else answer that one.
     
  38. internetabyss

    internetabyss Notebook Enthusiast

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    this is how i roll...mouse and case on friday...lappy next week... Z car Z lappy ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!

    gotta love the blue ray burner...time to start renting more ps3 games and blue ray movies....gotta love the upgradeable Z can mod the cpu harddrive ram, nvidia card when more come out and prices get cheaper....and full warrantee to cover my ***...on the promo


    Product: VGPAMB8
    Per Unit Price: $42.30
    Quantity: 1
    Total Price: $42.30
    Description: VAIO® Leather Carrying Case
    Ship Method: Standard
    Estimated Ship Date: 08/12/2008
    Product: VGPBMS33/B
    Per Unit Price: $29.61
    Quantity: 1
    Total Price: $29.61
    Description: VAIO® Bluetooth® Laser Mouse
    Ship Method: Standard
    Estimated Ship Date: 08/12/2008
    Product: R1NBSU08-LBOM
    Component: Wireless LAN (802.11a/b/g/n) with integrated Bluetooth® technology
    Component: None
    Component: None
    Component: 250 GB SATA Hard Disk Drive [5400 rpm]
    Component: None
    Component: LCD 13.1" (XBRITE-DuraView™ ;)
    Component: Standard Battery (BPS12)
    Component: None
    Component: Trusted Platform Module / Biometric Fingerprint Sensor
    Component: Microsoft® Works
    Component: Engraving
    Component: Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor P8400 (2.26GHz)
    Component: Integrated Wireless Wide Area Network
    Component: Fresh Start™
    Component: 3 GB DDR3-SDRAM (DDR3-1066, 2GBx1 + 1GBx1)
    Component: Microsoft® Windows Vista® Business with Service Pack 1
    Component: Blu-ray Disc™ Read/Write Drive
    Per Unit Price: $2,689.99
    Quantity: 1
    Total Price: $2,689.99
    Description: VGN-Z590 Configure-to-Order
    Ship Method: Standard
    Estimated Ship Date:
    Extended Service Plan:
    3 Year Express Ship Service Plan with ADH
    Price: $148.06

    Subtotal: $2,909.96

    Tax: $240.09

    Shipping Charges: $0.00

    Order Total: $3,150.05
     
  39. jpoe

    jpoe Notebook Guru

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    Nice setup, I like your choices ... If I replace my order, I'm thinking of an almost identical setup except with the 320 gb hdd...
     
  40. internetabyss

    internetabyss Notebook Enthusiast

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    ps talked to customer service...and rumour is sony screwed up and is sending the standard batt when ordered the expanded batt for 100....someone confirm this when you get your extended batt lappy...

    if not...there is a 200 deal i found on the web no tax no ship which would cost ya 85 bucks if you didnt do the extended for 2 bats that 85 is from the 115 upgrade and tax cost on the CTO.

    this isnt gonna be much of a gaming rig but perfect for low rez gaming and every thing else we toss at this biotch...

    im still ticked sony makes ya pay tax....but the promo helped out from looking at preconfigs out there...

    and there is a rumour of crappy builds from the CTO department...but hell thats why you get the warrantee in the promo...send that thing back and **** and moan to get free stuff...this is their flag ship product...so they are gonna make sure we dont light up the forums with bs complaints.

    rock and roll only a week away till lappy goodness.....
     
  41. internetabyss

    internetabyss Notebook Enthusiast

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    yeah...thanks....tought long and hard...had to cancel my original order once i realized the blue ray was a burner....had to get it...500 is good price and will stand the test of time...especially of all the things ya can do with it....

    2.2 cpu all the way...dont be a sucker and upgrade.... .3 more for the 2.5 is unnoticable unless you like a bit higher score on 3d 06 but then why get this lappy....u should get a sangar with a extreme 9100 and a 9800 gtx for the same price as this lappy.

    i was gonna do the 320...but for 120???? when you can do 250 for 20 bucks more...think it out....the 500g harddrives gonna be cheap...and the sdd are gonna be at 256 and cheap....so plan for the upgrade then....this lappy is for long bat and mild performance.

    everything is upgradable besides the motherboard and screen....and you can do it in warrantee just put it back in original form when you send it in...dont strip the screws either...and they can never tell. PS...always mirror your harddrive to a online service or backup external....sony loves to whip harddrives for warrantee issues.
     
  42. internetabyss

    internetabyss Notebook Enthusiast

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    ALSO....buy the most expensive products now...like the burner...if you gotta have it...then get the cheap full coverage warrantee...then accidently drop that biotch out the window when 2 generation chips and boards come out 2 years from now for the free lappy upgrade at your purchase price....the 3 year is the best deal...but the 4 year is only $135 more. 4 years? you gonna wait to make your claim that long? do 3...and claim in 2 years...youll be set for the next 4-6 years...and keep your upgrades and sell em

    PS for those that like vista....get the business vista...you get a free xp pro cd and you can sell that....they are like gold....and people will pay full price for em now that microsoft pulled em....laterz...
     
  43. meteorstorm42

    meteorstorm42 Notebook Consultant

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    Wow... everything's upgradable?

    That means... the GPU too?
    So if something nicer comes out, that's the same size... :)
    What if we wanted to replace it with an ATI 3470 ? Would that work?
     
  44. internetabyss

    internetabyss Notebook Enthusiast

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    ummm duhh....i have had 4 vaios so far...um stick that lappy on the roof of your car...drive away back up on it whatever...you have to send in 51 percent of the lappy back for full value....they give you the choice of purchase price in cash or credit for a NEW gen lappy your pic....get the ADH warrantee on that too...and your set for years...

    FYI...read the warrantee very well...its all in the story and make sure your a clumsey fool like me...just make sure your enjoyed your lappy enough before you make a claim...aka 2 years if you got a 3 year warrantee or 4 years....PS if you make other claims for super clumseyness....then they deduct the cost off your original purchase price....break the screen you paid 2800 for lappy...now you only have 2000 left on your warrantee....get it? got it? good! now use your brain and get the promo from sonystyle now while is cheap as hell.
     
  45. internetabyss

    internetabyss Notebook Enthusiast

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    ok dude...heres the deal...ill spell it out for you...ITS ALL ABOUT THE STORY of your accident....you gotta be smart about...read the warranty for ADH on sony's website...they basically put a bunch off bs to cover their from doing what some MIGHT do...so the story is KEY....this is what a smart man does....i dont condone false claims ...but heres the deal dude. call the warrantee place like your making a claim...you have 60 days to return the warrantee for FULL refund if you think im bsing you....CALL those guys up....tell them you got this warrantee but you read it and it looks like the wording covers them from paying out on a claim...then ask them for EXAMPLES...that will force them to pay you...RECORD THE CONVERSATION...and put that in your 2 year holding box its worth 2-3k $$$. Then when you lappy has the EXACT example accident...if they give you bs...then play back the recording and pic one of the examples as your claim......take pictures it...or a home video ..., just gotta be legit...LOL then if they pull bs on you...your more than covered...if they ask why you recorded the call 2 years ago...say that was they only reason you didnt return the warrantee...say you dealt with bs warrantees in the past and you are a smart buyer after getting the run around in the past.....and you WILL get your money back or a new lappy at original cost...or you sue...and with the recording and photos/video of your accident...they are out of luck in court...they not gonna even go there
     
  46. internetabyss

    internetabyss Notebook Enthusiast

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    3150 you can make it cheaper if you get the crappy mouse and crappy case. the bluray burner add gives you more cost to your lappy for a claim...and if you like to copy stuff you rent for a big library of hi end stuff then do it! if you got the cash get the most expensive z out there, with ADH and you will be set forever...just make sure to get the ADH on that too and dont be stupid...change the claim story and make another recording/photos of accident for that...I mean...(hypothetically of course) wink wink the coverage is good....the screen is thin as hell...breaks easily...i have broken 2 screens in the past...once my biz partner picked it up by the screen (my TX series) the other my ex punched it when she saw **** in the history...LOL crazy chick.

    I'm just passing on knowledge....dont flame me...you should always cover your but when it comes to insurance or warrantee claims....if anyone has a issue with the knowedge...dont read my CYA info....
     
  47. internetabyss

    internetabyss Notebook Enthusiast

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    was told 51% have it recorded....yes it works on preconfigs or CTO's (config to order)...thats what i am getting and if your smart thats what ull get ....must have sweet 1600 rez screen and 256k gpu!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! dang it dude u gonna make me go to sonystly and look it up....im gonna charge you a consultant fee...whats ur address for the bill? think im bsing?? :eek:

    Accidently damage from handling,,,,read all this bs...sony extended warrantee plans info......


    SERVICE CONTRACT COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE

    THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS PRESENTED IN THIS DOCUMENT CONSTITUTE YOUR ENTIRE SERVICE CONTRACT RIGHTS UNDER THIS CONTRACT MAY VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.

    SERVICE CONTRACT. This document sets forth the entire Contract between Service Contract Administrator hereinafter referred to as We, Us and Our, and, the Purchaser as You and Your. No representation, promise or condition herein shall modify these terms. Service Net Solutions, LLC (“Service Net”) is contractually obligated to You to provide service under this Contract where in accordance with, and as allowed by state law. If this contract is purchased in Florida, Balboa Insurance Company is contractually obligated to You to provide service under this Contract. If this Contract is purchased in Puerto Rico, SNAdmin of (PR), Inc is contractually obligated to You to provide service under this Contract.

    1.WAIT PERIOD. Customers will be subjected to a 30 day wait period if the Contract is purchased after the manufacturer’s warranty, or a previous extended service plan covered by Us, expires.

    2.WHAT IS COVERED. We will furnish labor, parts, and/or replacement equipment (or pay for same) necessary to repair operational or mechanical breakdowns of the product specified in this Contract, provided such service is necessitated by product failure during normal usage. We may substitute a refurbished product of like or equivalent specifications in lieu of repair. The product specified and covered includes only equipment as originally configured and charged for in this Contract. Coverage also applies to the parts and accessories that are necessary to the covered product’s functionality, but does not apply to accessories that are used in conjunction with or to enhance the performance of the covered product. The maximum liability owed to You under this Contract will be the full retail cost of Your Product minus the sales tax. In the event We (I) replace the Product with a Product with equivalent specifications or (II) reimburse You for the current market value of the Product with equivalent specifications or (III) reimburse You for the retail amount of the Product, less claims made, minus sales tax, We shall have satisfied all obligations owed under this contract.

    Power Surge and Spike: This service plan protects against operational failure of a covered product if a failure occurs while connected to a surge protector approved by the Underwriter’s Laboratory. If covered by Your homeowners insurance, You will be reimbursed for the deductible. Your surge protector may be collected by the Administrator for examination.

    Custom Installations: Products installed in cabinetry and other types of built-in applications are eligible for service as long as You make the product accessible to the service technician. We will pay for a maximum of two (2) hours for diagnosis and/or reinstallation on Home Theater related service calls. We are not responsible for cosmetic damage of fixed infrastructure as a result of dismantling or reinstallation of a repaired product into a customer installation.

    Other Consumer Products: All functional internal factory installed electrical components such as circuit boards, clock and timers, controls, internal wiring, motors, power supplies, resistors, safety switches and transformers are covered.

    3.HARDWARE UPGRADE COVERAGE. This Contract will cover any internal hardware components, including memory and hard disk drive products purchased through a Dealer/Retailer and installed into equipment at the time of purchase. This Contract does not cover installation of hardware upgrades installed after the time of purchase.

    4.ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE FROM HANDLING (ADH). ADH pertains to You if listed on the reverse side of this Contract. Your product is protected against accidental damage FROM HANDLING. ADH will end prior to the expiration date when We have, as a result of service provided to You, replaced Your product or incurred costs under this plan and all other coverage equal to the original purchase price of Your product (as indicated on your invoice). ADH only covers operational or mechanical failure from handling and does not include protection against normal wear and tear, theft, mysterious disappearance, misplacement, viruses, reckless, abusive, willful or intentional conduct associated with handling and use of the product, cosmetic damage and/or other damage that does not affect the unit functionality, damage caused during shipment between You and Our service providers and any other limitations listed in the Limitations of Coverage section. Any resultant damage from this type of treatment is NOT covered by this ADH program. The use of this coverage requires an explanation of where and when the accident occurred as well as a detailed description of the actual event. Failure to provide this information will result in claim denial.

    5.NOVATION.If Service Net assigns another insurance carrier with an “AM Best” industry rating of A- or better under this Contract directly or indirectly, such new insurance carrier will carry the liability under this Contract.

    6.TERMS OF COVERAGE (for replacement contracts only). Coverage extends from the expiration of the manufacturer’s product warranty for the period indicated on the reverse side of this Contract.

    7.TO OBTAIN AUTHORIZATION FOR REPLACEMENT (on replacement contracts only).
    # Call the Extended Service toll free number listed on the front of this Service Contract to obtain authorization for replacement.
    # Have this Service Contract, Service Contract number, and the original product receipt available.
    # Instructions on obtaining replacement will be given.
    # Once authorization is obtained, You will be required, at Your expense, to return the product to Service Net as directed.
    # The Product should not be taken to the Retailer.
    # At Our determination, You will receive a replacement product of like grade and quality. In cases where a replacement cannot be made, You will receive reimbursement for the original purchase price, excluding sales tax.
    # Contractual obligations are considered fulfilled upon replacement, reimbursement or term expiration.

    8.LIMIT OF LIABILITY (replacement contracts only). Maximum liability under this Contract shall be the cost of: (I) one replacement with a Product of equal value or (II) reimbursement of the retail price paid for the products minus the sales tax. This Contract provides for only the onetime replacement of the product with another product of like grade and quality. This Contract will expire at the time of this replacement or reimbursement for replacement or term expiration.

    9.IMPORTANT NOTE. Repairs recommended by the repairing facility not necessitated by mechanical breakdown are not covered unless specifically authorized by Us. We reserve the right to inspect the items to be covered, or the items covered, as the case may be, prior to coverage or during the coverage period. Model number, serial number and original date of purchase of all items to be covered must be provided to execute application for service. If You request a service call for a non-covered repair, You will be responsible for all costs associated with the repair. In the event You are unable to meet the servicer, You must call to cancel the appointment in advance of the agreed upon time of service. You may be responsible for paying the second trip charge for the subsequent rescheduled repair. If the product is found to be performing to the manufacturer’s specifications, it will be returned to You.

    10.TIME FOR SERVICE. Service will be performed during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

    11.PLACE OR SERVICE. Service will be provided by a manufacturer authorized service center, or the Dealer named in this Service Contract. After We authorize Your claim, You may arrange for service and We will cover the reasonable parts and labor costs that We authorize. You may be asked to provide proof of purchase as a condition for receiving service under this Service Contract. Your original purchase receipt should be kept with this Service Contract in a safe place. On-Site service will be provided for all televisions with a screen size of equal to 25” or larger, and for all projection televisions. All other product categories are covered for carry-in or depot service unless specified on the front of this form as on-site coverage. On-Site service will be provided when Your residence is located within fifty (50) miles of an authorized service provider. If you are entitled to on-site service but due to environmental and/or technical requirements, certain repairs can not be completed in Your residence, or if you are located more than fifty (50)miles from the nearest authorized provider, the cost to transport and/or ship the product for service will be paid by Service Net.

    12.PARTS AND SUBCONTRACTING. Parts used to repair equipment may either be new or refurbished at Our sole option. Service may be performed by subcontractors.

    13.UNAVAILABILITY OF FUNCTIONAL PARTS OR TECHNICAL INFORMATION. If we determine that We are unable to repair Your product due to the unavailability of functional parts, service or technical information the total liability owed to You under this contract will be the lesser of (I) the current market value of the product with equivalent specifications or (II) the retail price paid for Your product minus sales tax and claims paid, in lieu of service or replacement of the product with equivalent specifications. In all cases where parts or technical information are on extended backorder for a minimum of thirty (30) calendar days, We will determine if a replacement or reimbursement will be made. All contractual obligations are fulfilled upon product replacement, reimbursement or contract term expiration.

    14.LIMITATIONS OF COVERAGE. THIS CONTRACT DOES NOT COVER: A. Any equipment located outside of the United States of America or Puerto Rico. B. Damage or other equipment failure due to causes beyond our control including, but not limited to, repairs necessary due to operator negligence, the failure to maintain the equipment according to the owner’s manual instructions, abuse, vandalism, theft, fire, flood, wind, freezing, power failure, inadequate power supply, unusual atmospheric conditions, or acts of war or acts of God. C. Service necessary because of improper storage, improper ventilation, reconfiguration of equipment, use of movement of the equipment, including the failure to place the equipment in an area that complies with the manufacturer’s published space or environmental requirements. D. Equipment used in industrial settings. Equipment used in industrial settings may be defined as: (I) Any utilization of equipment that is inconsistent with either the design of the equipment or the way the manufacturer intended the equipment to be used, (II) Any and all cases in which the manufacturer of the equipment would not honor any warranty regarding the equipment. E. Expendable, lost, or consumable items such as, but not limited to: For Computers, Laptops, and Peripherals: removable data storage, accessory cables, batteries, and media disks. Nonfunctional parts: including but not limited to: light bulbs, nonfunctional plastic, exterior/interior finishes, knobs, dials, or handles (unless critical to the function of the Product), trim, and/or appearance parts or accessory items such as electrical connections, filters, batteries and other operation supplies or consumable items. For all products: Telephone or other lines connecting to the equipment or any other items that are considered consumable by the manufacturer. For Printers, Copiers and Multifunctional Equipment: ink, fusers, roller kits, maintenance kits, and any other toner/cartridge. F. In-warranty parts not provided or shipped by the manufacturer. Damage covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, manufacturer’s recall, or similar manufacturer’s incentive or repair program (regardless of whether or not the manufacturer is doing business as an ongoing enterprise). G. Operational or mechanical failure which is not reported prior to expiration of this Contract or within 30 days of product failure. H. Any software, including but not limited to, application programs, network programs, upgrades, formatting of any kind, databases, files, drivers, source code, object code or proprietary data, or any support, configuration, installation or reinstallation of any software or data. I. Equipment sold without a manufacturer's warranty or sold “as is” or secondhand. Refurbished products with less than an original ninety (90) days manufacturer’s parts and labor limited warranty. Refurbished equipment with an original 90 day warranty must have at least 30 days remaining in that warranty to qualify for coverage. J. Normal, periodic or preventative maintenance, customer education and cleanings. K. Consequential damage to or spoilage of CD’s, film, or recording tapes as a result of the malfunctioning of or damage to an operating part, or as a result of any repairs or replacement under this agreement. L. Loss or damage as a result of violation of existing federal, state and municipal codes including repairs to products not complying with said codes.M. Pre-existing conditions (incurred prior to the effective date of coverage), and known to You. N. Consequential damages or delay in rendering service under this agreement, or loss of use during the period that the product is at the authorized service center or otherwise awaiting parts. You are responsible for creating back-ups of all Your Data and software on a regular basis. O. Equipment where the serial plate attached to the equipment is removed, defaced or made illegible. P. Television or personal computer monitor screen imperfections, including ‘burn in’ or burned CRT phosphor, caused by video games, prolonged display of one or more signal(s), or other abuse. Damaged or defective LCD screens when the failure is caused by abuse or is otherwise excluded herein. All display products that are used in an application that requires continuous and/or business operation. Q. Damage resulting from unauthorized repair; software virus; improper electrical wiring and connections; damage caused during delivery, improper installation, or setup, user facilitated minor adjustments and settings outlined in the product’s owners manual, external antenna or local reception problems, inaccessible products or parts, negligence, misuse or abuse whether willful or not. R. Payment for subsequent service calls which result in “no failure found” diagnosis. Non failure problems including but not limited to noises, squeaks, simple paper jams not requiring parts and intermittent issues are not product failures. Subsequent trip charges may need to be paid by You if a second “no failure found” diagnosis is determined based on the same problem. S. Broadcast grade models are not covered by this program. Repair of resolution (pixels) failure must match the factory minimum standards before an authorized repair occurs. Sealed system failures are considered a manufacturer’s defect and are not covered under this program. Installation/de-installation of flat panel TV’s is not covered, unless custom installation service option is purchased. T. Parts or accessories that are used in conjunction with product specified under this contract that enhances the performance of the covered product. U. This Service Contract is effective upon receipt of Your payment in full of the retail Service Contract purchase price. We, at Our sole option, may collect any unpaid portion of the retail Service Contract purchase price prior to providing service under this Service Contract.

    15.NO LEMON GUARANTEE. During the term of this contract, when three service repairs, with three separate claim numbers, have been completed on the same component, and that same component requires a fourth repair, as determined by Us, Your product will be replaced with a product of like grade and quality by Us, not to exceed the original retail purchase price. This does not include repairs necessary during the manufacturer's warranty period or previous service contract terms. Once you have received your product replacement all contractual obligations under this Contract have been fulfilled.

    16.DEDUCTIBLE. No deductible applies to this Contract.

    17.RENEWABILITY. Your Contract is renewable at Our discretion. Renewability, and the cost to renew, reflects the age of the covered product(s) at the time of renewal.

    18.CANCELLATION AND REFUND. You may cancel this contract at any time for any reason. If You cancel this Contract within sixty (60) days of the date purchased You will receive a refund of the full purchase price less any claims. If You cancel this Contract the reafter, You will receive a prorated refund based on the remaining days of coverage on a monthly basis, less costs for service performed and claims (if applicable) and subject to applicable state law, an administrative fee of the lesser of 10%of the Service Contract purchase price or $25.00.We, at our sole option, may cancel this Service Contract due to non-payment. If We cancel this Service Contract due to non-payment, You will not receive a refund.

    19.BUYOUT. We may elect, at Our option, to buyout the Contract during the coverage term for the lesser of (I) current market value of the product with equivalent specifications or (II) retail price paid for Your product minus sales tax and claims paid. When determining the current market value of a Product of equivalent specifications a fair analysis is completed using current manufacturers’ and distributors’ pricing on comparable products. All contractual obligations are considered fulfilled upon buyout of the product.

    20.STATE VARIATIONS. Certain states have specific conditions; conditions listed on the front of this form apply to You.

    21.TRANSFERABILITY. You may transfer this Agreement to any person by sending written notice to: Service Net, P.O. Box 1411, Jeffersonville, IN 47131-1411. On-site service is not transferable outside of the United States.

    22.COVERAGE AND TERM. This is not an insurance policy. As the Administrator, Service Net will assist You in understanding Your warranty and coverage benefits from the day You purchase Your Plan. If Your product needs repair for operational or mechanical failure, You are required to call the toll free number listed on the front of this Contract or submit Your claim in writing to Service Net Solutions, LLC., 650 Missouri Ave., Jeffersonville, IN 47130. With any correspondence, please provide Your daytime phone number and claim number if applicable. In the U.S., if We fail to pay or provide service on a claim within 30 days after proof of loss has been filed, or in the event We are no longer a going concern, You are entitled to make a written claim directly against the Insurer, Balboa Insurance Company, P.O. Box 19521, Irvine, CA 92623- 9521, 800-854-6115. Please enclose a copy of Your plan when sending correspondence to the Insurer. The expiration date and price of this Contract are listed on the face of this Contract. There are some limitations of coverage. You should review the limitations of coverage paragraph for details.

    23.ENTIRE CONTRACT. This is the entire Contract and no other oral modifications are valid.

    24.LIMITATION OF LIABILITY.THE MANUFACTURER, DEALER/RETAILER, SERVICE NET, THEIR AGENTS, CONTRACTORS OR LICENSEESWILLNOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PROPERTY DAMAGE, LOST TIME, LOST DATA RESULTING FROMTHE BREAKDOWNOR FAILURE OF ANY EQUIPMENT OR FROMDELAYS IN SERVICING OR THE INABILITY TO RENDER SERVICE ON ANY COVERED EQUIPMENT. EXCLUSION ISMADE OF ANY IMPLIEDWARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THERE ARE NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIEDWARRANTIESMADE HEREIN.

    If You have any questions, require customer service, or wish to report a claim, please contact: Service Net, P.O. Box 1411, Jeffersonville, IN 47131, or call toll-free 1-866-374-0134.
     
  48. internetabyss

    internetabyss Notebook Enthusiast

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    CYA ALWAYS! get it in writing or recorded...they work to scrw u out of your money...LEGALLY companies always set things up in their favor...you buy the warrantee the most they will ever lose is what you bought at sony's maked up prices...its a wash and they used your capitol in the interm to make them money. Get the warrantee while the $300 promo with warrantee and 2 accessories is still available...look at it this way... they are betting that you do not ever use the warrantee...and most wont or if they do it wont be covered on the info above...so b smart....ok im done with this topic...but i wanted to enlighten the future owners on here as a favor because i do my research 10 times over on everything i do or buy.
     
  49. Jayayess1190

    Jayayess1190 Waiting on Intel Cannonlake

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    Wow.......
     
  50. internetabyss

    internetabyss Notebook Enthusiast

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    yes everything if you know what you are doing....buy the right tools if you decide to crack this open...there are already pics of someone opening it and taking it apart fully...just look. but remember you gotta put it back the same way you took it apart.(TAKE PLENTY OF PICS so you can put it back exactly)..and dont strip the screws...if you do go buy some more and put the EXACT ones in...if you got a warranty. The gpu...the secondary one from Nvidia is upgradeable...but that only means if the specs for future Z's dont change and Nvidia doesnt change the fit of this card in this current z. look at the pics if you dont believe me....so far.... you can max out the cpu with the 2.8 (what i am doing when it gets cheap i got the 2.2) maybe the extreme 9100 if it doesnt run too hot...its running at 44watts and youll need over clocker software to mod the clock speeds the sony bios wont do it.. the board is running the newest chipset...so lets hope for better chips from intel that run at low watts that fit the board...the harddrive is ready for a 500gb and sdd....then there is the ram...64bit os and you can run 8gb ram now....but heres the deal the gpu will always be the weak link and we are SOL on that. gpu tech needs to get on the low watt high performance bandwagon.

    fyi...ram will be the easiest upgrade and sony makes it easy by a little panel on the back....everything else will require removing the keyboard...

    dont attempt in warrantee mods without the right tools and know how...thats your only warning...if you mess it up...then just run over it with your car and get a new one and dont mod again...LOL
     
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