Sony Vaio Z i5/i7 Official Owners Thread

Am I missing something

I thought all the options were Qaud SSD i.e. 4x64gb?

I've ordered a 256GB SSD - is this actually 2x128?

Heres what I asked the sony rep

I have a couple of questions the preconfigured option specifically mentions
Quad SSD (RAID 0) 256, Whilst the other says 256 GB Ultra SATA Flash SSD


Why the difference? is the Qaud SSD only availble in the preconfig option or is it just a mistake on the site?

and his reply

Let me first clarify the situation for you, the Custom Built and Ready Made are exactly the same. They have the same chassis, same parts but the only difference is Pre-Configured are already made with a set configuration but CTO's are made according to your choices and that is a reason we give you limited options and not unlimited because there is only few things that you can tailor to your requirement.

The SSD is the same but when you go into the pre-configured ones on the website and you look at the Technical Specifications, we have to give detailed specifications where as when customers are choosing the specifications for custom built machines we do not want them to get confused with difficult technical details.

I am stressing the same again that the Ready made models and the CTOs are exactly the same only difference is that you can pick and choose in CTO but you cant do this when it ready made boxed up.

Im not entirely sure what hes on about, I imagine i will find out when i get it.

As a uk customer I have been told the machine is in production( not sure
where the machine is being made - here in the uk or japan or somewhere else)

and i have been give a delivery date of
between 14.03.2010 and 19.03.2010

After seeing all the pics I cant wait

 

well it seems that the sonystyle.ca has added on the z cto options for canada and so far no options for a hdd and no 1080p screen option...

but at least its up and available

 

nvm... this can be deleted

 

200 euros here in France... I love US price,,,,

 

Thats what I was saying Mappy, the US only offers single and dual SSDs.

IzzyB68 in page 25 referred me to a post concerning the SSDs and how they are dual, triple and quadruple, but I think thats only in the european and asian markets, perhaps in canada as well.

Here in the US we only get singles or duals and thats it!! So if you ordered from the US you will get a dual SSD.

So I believe you will get a 256gbx1 instead of the 64gbx4. So much for spending 400 extra!!

 

@xxgersonxx


Hmmm, I think I may have been mis-sold by the rep

On the main uk sony-style page the quad ssd is quite clearly mentioned

https://www.sonystyle.co.uk/SonyStyle/VAIO-Laptop-PCs/Z-Series-13-1



These are the configurations options for the Drive in the CTO page

128 GB Ultra SATA Flash SSD Solid State Drive
192 GB Ultra SATA Flash SSD [ + £ 140.0] (1 x 64 GB + 1 x 128 GB) Solid State Drive

256 GB Ultra SATA Flash SSD [ + £ 280.0] (2 x 128 GB) Solid State Drive
512 GB Ultra SATA Flash SSD [ + £ 979.99] (2 x 256 GB) Solid State Drive


I opted for the 256 option after the rep assured me that this was in fact a quad ssd, but if you look at the options none of them are Qaud – they are all just x2

I will be emailing the rep who sold me the machine first thing tomorrow just to make sure, followed by an anonymous call to the sony sales line later 

 

Since there were screenshots of the 256GB model which showed 4x64GB but that 4x64GB is divided on 2 PCB's (2x64 + 2x64). I'm 100% sure about that.

All options are made with 64GB modules. With 192GB for example you get one PCB with 2x64 and one PCB with 64GB, which together is 192GB.

 

The following model on the uk site specifically mentions Qaud SSD

VPCZ11Z9E/B

Hard Drive Type
Quad SSD (RAID 0)
Hard Drive Capacity (GB) 256

When I asked the rep if this was the drive tthat I would be getting he seemed sure that it was?

But now it looks like Im getting 2x128
256 GB Ultra SATA Flash SSD [ + £ 280.0] (2 x 128 GB) Solid State Drive

Whats that then Dual SSD?

All this raid, dual, qaud is new to me!!

Id hate to get the wrong thing ( which is the sony according to a Apple Fan boy colleague of mine )

 

Like i said they are all made out of 64GB modules on a PCB. The 128GB PCB's exist out of 2x64GB, the 64GB PCB = 64GB. It was just a way to make things smaller. They made one PCB with 2 drives on it, which are connected on the PCB itself.

128GB = probably 1 PCB with 2x64GB (dual raid)
192GB = 2 PCB's with 2x64GB on one, and 1x 64 on another (dual or triple raid, not to sure)
256GB = 2 PCB's with both 2x64GB (quad ssd)
512GB = 2 PCB's with both 2x128GB (quad SSD)

192GB i'm not 100% sure, but i think that's the combination. Anyone correct me if i'm like 10000000000% wrong.

 

You are absolutely right, all SSD are comprised of 64GB module. So this is how it is:

128GB (2x64GB, Dual RAID)
192GB (3x64GB, Triple RAID)
256GB (4x64GB, Quad RAID)
384GB (2x128GB + 2x 64GB, QUAD RAID)
512GB (4x128GB, QUAD RAID)

So all in all, the Quad SSD is a nice marketing term, but it only goes for the 256, 384 and 512GB models. The rest will not profit from the increased Quad RAID speeds, but it will be plenty fast.

 

Tbh, as long as the SSDs dont work like crap on their own I dont care if I dont get Quad. Hell, maybe even happier without Quad.

1x256GB ill just use it in JBOD (not likely since Sony is bragging Raid 0 and Raid 0 can only be obtained with a minimum of two drives)

2x128GB Ill just JBOD them both and have two separate 128gig drives (much more manageable than four 64GB drives. Once again, as long as these SSDs dont work like crap on their own.)


4x64GB ill just JBOD one 64GB for OS and Raid the remaining 3! (Reason being so I can TRIM enable the 64GB on my OS/apps so as to try to avoid the infamous inevitable stalls! AND because in this hypothetical setup, if one of my Raided drives does fail, Ill still be able to run my computer because the single 64GB SSD running my OS will not be touched considering its not in the RAID. Or am I wrong in assuming this? If any of that made sense.)

 

is the fresh start worth it for 50$?
If I do it myself I don't want the hassle of not finding all the drivers needed.

And 50$ difference for i5 540 and i7 620... anyone know the battery life difference between the 2?

 

People already replied to your question... yes it worth if you think 50$ worth 10% speed increasement... From what I understood battery is not that much affected since the clock speed is quiet similar.... I think you more or less take advantage of the cache increasement...

 

Which version of CrystalDiskMark are you using? I downloaded from http://crystalmark.info/download/index-e.html but it don't see the same graphs you guys posted...

 

version 2.2

 

Indeed, but there are a few changes which make the i7 620m faster;
- stock speed is a little faster (not too noticeable)
- turbo boost is about 300mhz faster (3,06 vs 3,33ghz)
- 4mb cache (instead of 3mb)

Powerusage shouldnt be that much higher, only when on max turbo mode power difference could be noticeable.

 

I would have guessed that the 384GB would be 3x128 and classed as a triple RAID since the set members are usually required to be the same size.

 

Yep, you're absolutely right, contradicted myself there with a post I made before. You'd need the same size drives. My bad.

 

why would everyone use that when there is a v3.blah.something out? is it some sort of secret testing ritual to which i am not privy? please let me in the inner circle I promise to only post accurate benchmarks...

 

I looked at Conics too I spec'ed this laptop :-

Sony Vaio Type Z VPCZ11AGJ [2.66GHz Core i7]
- 1st AC Adapter Option Std, long cable Adapter
- 1st Battery VGP-BPS20 (5200mAh, 315g)
- Bluetooth Yes, Internal
- Colour Premium Carbon
- CPU Core i7 620M 2.66GHz
- Docking Station None Required
- Extra AC Adapter +1 x VGP-AC19V31 [std adapter] (total 2)
- Extra Battery no extra required (1 only)
- HDD/SSD/Optical Drive 320GB HDD (no Burner)
- Head Phones
- Keyboard US English with backlight
- LCD 1920x1080
- Memory 2x 2GB (4GB under 64bit OS)
- Palm Rest Colour Gray (for Black / Carbon colour PC ONLY)
- Security Fingerprint sensor & TPM
- Unlock the Modem not yet possible for this model
- USB / iLink 3x USB (2.0)
- Warranty 3 year warranty
- Web Camera None Required
- WiMAX or WWAN[3G] IEEE 802.16e WiMAX [not tested], WiFi a/b/g/n MIMI
- Windows Version Windows 7 [Home Premium] English 64bit

Total was 245,800JPY

The Japanese sony style web page was 203,000 JPY

How easy is it to change the O/S on a Z ?

 

Planning ahead help! Seeing as these are raided quads, obviously data back up is a priority, so I want to have a plan before getting this machine. Can anyone recommend to me a good back up solution to fight against the increased risk of data loss?

Obviously there are places like Mozy and what not, but they cost money every month. Perhaps there is something you suggest? Or are online back up solutions the best option? (something that does automatic back ups daily is a must)

Beats me. A forum member linked me the download a few pages back, so thats what I used. It works, im happy, dont see a need to upgrade. Then again, I hadnt a clue there was a newer version out

 

I recommend Acronis as a backup solution. Quality product.

 

Hi,

Here are my pre-order specs:
-Premium Carbon Fiber
-i-7 620M
-6gb RAM
-128GBx1 SSD
-CD/DVD
-Fresh Start

I am sure I will upgrade to 8gb of RAM in the future, that's no problem. I wanted the best possible build price since I am payrolling this through work, hah. I would like to add the blu-ray player and an extra PCB with 64x2 for the quad RAID setup. Are both of these upgrades possible? I have been following this thread and trying to keep up with all the great work you guys have done since receiving your machines.

 

I don't recall fresh start having any cost associated with it, at least not in the US market.

 

Seconded yellowfrizbee, Acronis True Image Home 2010 (current version) is a self contained product that you can either schedule or do at any time you deem necessary.
It also allows incremental backup (only backup the changes) as well as allows you to create a complete image of your hard drives to any internal or external drive (free space is adjusted) say you have 30GB of data on a 128GB system disk. you can use a 32GB external drive and make an image and run from that in case your system disk fails resulting in only 2GB free with the 30GB of your data.

 

Crap. Not really satisfied with the Canadian preorder options. At least the date I was given was accurate!

 

What, like: "ETA: not any time soon." ?

EDIT: Sorry but I am not good with the "waiting game"

 

You can only do fresh startwith Windows Professional, which costs an extra $50.

 

You'd be a fool not to get Professional or Ultimate. Especially if this is a work laptop or you are in IT and constantly join domains.

 

Says March 16th for shipping.

Disappointed there's no 1920 screen, even though I wasn't sure I was going to get that anyways. But I would have liked the choice.

i7 pricing makes more sense than the US site. Memory is still too expensive (I can buy 2x4gb for less than the price they charge to go from 4gb to 8gb). BD drive is expensive. Only one Quad RAID option.

 

Windows 7 itself contains an automated backup solution, although without the benefit of hard data, I would guess that the Acronis solution is better.

 

In most cases it is better to go with the 6GB (4GB + 2GB) as you will only have to raplace (and possibly throw away) only one SODIMM.

 

I can highly recommend the HP MediaSmart Home Server. Super easy, very convenient backup and network storage system.

 

Yeah, that was my thinking as well. Plus, 6gb should be more than enough for a couple of years (considering I've been living with XP with a max of 3gb usable for ages).

Seconded! I have the original MediaSmart model I picked up on a closeout sale, and the thing is fastastic. Backs up 5 of my PCs right now, and has images from a further 2 older PCs. Also works as a media server for several devices in my household. Currently has 5TB storage.

 

I just noticed one difference.

Early on, when going thru the cto choices, the 4GB option was listed as 2Gx2. Now it shows up as 4Gx1.

This is a good thing as previously one would have to cto the 6GB option (4G+2G) just so the eventual upgrade to 4GB would only required throwing out a single 2GB simm.

Now, if Sony descriptions are to be believed, The pre-configured 256GB/4GB/i5 unit has everything this soul could desire.

 

Can I upgrade from the 128gb ssd option and pop in another set of a 64x2 module while keeping my optical drive?


Also, do the blu-ray and cd/dvd drives use the same ribbon connector?

 

Could you? Most likely, when Sony Parts starts carrying spares. However the way they price things, it will probably cost 3-4 times what it would have cost to get it in the first place...

Yes.

 

Well I wasn't planning to right away haha. What kind of drives are they? I have been trying to find a breakdown on these things. Could I theoretically put in 4 of my own without adding custom cables?

 

Can anyone comment on the use of the hybrid graphics system when either dual/triple booting with Linux/Mac OS X Leopord or Snow Leopard? (This is my first Sony Vaio and first encounter with hybrid graphics)

NVIDIA Linux beta drivers support the new 330m but not hybrid graphics yet. I have no idea about Mac OS X. I was planning on virtualizing this laptop and using Windows 7 as host OS with 2 guests, Linux and Mac. I just have a feeling getting the hybrid graphics drivers working is going to be a majooorrr pain.

 

So what exactly is this March Madness special offer all about?

http://www.sonystyle.ca/commerce/se...langId=-1&promotionId=SonyStylePromotion01057

 

YES!! It's all over. After a few years contemplating Vaio T, then TX, then TZ, then an old Z, I finally dived in and ordered a new CTO Vaio Z from Sonystyle Canada. My old HP died on me a few months ago, which almost made me buy the old Z, but thought it was far too overpriced. I am so so so glad I waited!

Order shipping date approx March 16th

* i7-620m cpu
* 4GB RAM
* 1600x900 display (whatever. I can read tiny letters)
* 192GB SSD
* Silver
* BD player/burner drive
* Windows 7 Professional
* Fresh start
* Standard capacity battery

I am so excited like a kid loaded with sugar .

One question: What possible RAID configurations can I make with a 192GB SSD that would maintain or increase reliability?

 

Sorry, meant to reply back sooner but my computer crashed (just in time for the new Z to the rescue, huh?)

Thanks to all that replied! All noted. I understand Acronis backs up my data, but where does it put/store it? Certainly not my laptop drive, right? I know online back up sites store it in their own storage but I cant use my common sense to figure out where the Acronis daily back ups would be stored! Please excuse me

Looking into the Home Server.

 

Back up to an external hard drive. The are small, portable, and cheap for the capacity they can hold.

 

For those who are waiting for their Zs, the wait is worth it. Went to Sony Centre here in Australia on Saturday and took the plunge. It bliss, simply bliss. The SSD is blazing fast, the unit runs cool to warm but never hot. Managed to get 5800 points from 3D Mark 06 compared to 3600ish from my June 2009 17 MBP

Mine had a very minor creek from the palmrest, but i managed to disassemble the top cover and placed some bluetac to solve this minor issue. If anyone needs any help disassembling, i am more than willing to help. Took me about 30 minutes to figure out all the screws required to remove the top cover.
Regards.

 

Check out their product page: http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/

They offer an online backup solution as well.

 

Anyone test out the noise canceling headphones? They are a little gimmicky to me, but I'd be interested in how well they work.

I love my MDR-NC60's, but if the smaller ones work well, might save some carry-on bag space when flying.

 

Ah, downloading the free trial now so I can try to understand. I am a visual/hands on learner. What is causing the confusion for me is where it goes.

Say I back up my 60GB of data from my 256GB SSD; After said back up, its gotta go somewhere. Certainly it doesnt get stored onto my laptop hence taking up 60GB of its 256GB space? I then thought perhaps maybe im supposed to use this software with an external hard drive. But the program supports daily scheduled back ups, what happens if I dont have my external HDD plugged in when it wants to back up?

^ Thats just my confusion in a stream of consciousness format in the order that I wondered it in. I promise Ive been researching like crazy, im just that dense


P.S as for the online storage that Acronis and Mozy offer; my friend brought up an argument against it. He says that since they use the internet to "upload" your data youre limited to the poor download/upload speeds of your ISP and he also said that they would use up bandwith which he claims would be especially crippling for ISPs that limit bandwith. True? Or is this not how this works at all?

 

I wouldn't personally use an online backup solution considering a lot of what I do is based around my business. I like to play my cards close to my chest. I use Acronis to make local backups and store them to an external hdd. The new 2010 version is great because it can handle virtual discs too. Other than that, if you have a home server and use it for network storage, this is a great set&forget solution. As mentioned, just use an external hdd and every now and then burn a DVD with a recent image just in case the external takes a dive.

 

Much thanks. I only bring up this topic, like I said, as it is relevant for many of us working in such a high risk Raided setup. Your input and time is appreciated and will be put to good use!


Now back to lurking this thread whilst waiting 9 more days for my Z

 

You get an external hard drive, you tell acronis: Back up to that drive. Currently you have such a drive and you are already backing up to it, you just aren't using acronis. But it's exactly the same thing.