VAIO TZ Owner's Thread

Hi,

I have a TZ-150N. Just did a clean install of XP last night. The install went well in all respects but one. XP recognizes and installed the Sony-provided Mobile Intel 945 graphics driver but the video resolution and shared memory allocation are out of whack. I can set the resolution up to 1024x768 (60hz) but not beyond. As a result, the video image fills only the center portion of the screen. Intel's graphic accelerator console reports only 64MB of shared video memory.

I uninstalled and reinstalled the drivers multiple times with no joy. One option is to let XP use it's default driver, which allows for higher resolutions (and full use of the screen's real estate), but then I lose most of my power control options: no standby modes, no sleep, no hibernate, no shutdown/standby when the lid is closed. Has anyone heard of this issue and does anyone have a suggested workaround or fix?

Many thanks

 

go download the latest driver from Intel, and report back.

 

I pulled down the latest driver from Intel, updated the driver and still had the same problem, until.... When I looked in the device manager, under Monitors, I noticed that XP labeled the monitor as Desktop 1024x768. I looked further by clicking on driver update, which gave me two options: the Desktop 1024x768 or "Plug and Play Monitor." I selected the plug and play option and the problem with screen resolutions and settings was solved. Also, all the ACPI, power management functionality (including standby mode) is restored. What isn't fixed is the memory allocation for video, which still reads 64MB. Under Vista, the drivers allow a shared allocation of 224MB I believe. In any event, this is progress.

 

I'm thinking of the UK spec VGN-TZ31VN/X...

Does anyone know if it has a built-in microphone so you can audio/video conference using the built-in video camera?

Thx.

 

As far as I know, they all do (maybe not USA TZ130 cuz no webcam). The microphone is located in the front near the MS Duo reader.

 

Hello.

I think I have something underneath the right mouse clicker of my TZ150. When I press the right clicker, it makes this extremely loud clicking sound. I know it's not supposed to sound like this, because the left clicker is so quiet in comparison.

Is there a way for me to lift the right clicker somehow, and extract whatever is underneath it? I think it's a crumb or something, because I can definitely feel a sort of "bump" underneath the right clicker.

 

im planning to buy Tz-37 on my local store, with these specs :

Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor U7700 (1.33 GHz, FSB 533, Cache 2 MB) , 2 GB DDR2 SDRAM PC-4200, 100 GB 4200 RPM , DVD±RW, 56K Modem, GbE NIC, WiFi, Bluetooth, Fingerprint, VGA Intel GMA950 256MB (shared), Camera, 11.1" WXGA, Win Vista Business

im wondering how powerful these specs to run application ?
mainly i will use for college activities such as
- word processing
- office application
- little bit running access queries
- little image editing--photoshop and solidworks
- and watching dvds.

and also, is it capable on doing multitasking ??

many thanks and regards.

 

Please don't post this question everywhere.

You have asked it here and here.

The answer is yes, but not as fast as a faster notebook. Just make sure that your eyes are happy with the smaller screen. If they are then you'll love the TZ and accept that there is more to usability than speed (eg lighter weight, no need to keep searching for a power socket).

John

 

ok2, im so sorry if im bothering you.
but im still unsatistified with the response.

i really NEED answers from those who experienced with TZ series.
i mean, do they enjoy multitasking or running many applications that i listed before ?

many thanks and sorry to John.
regards.

 

I do not have a TZ, so you may be "unsatisfied" with my response too. But I have a weaker laptop -- a Dell D420 with only a regular Duo Core processor -- and I can do all of the above without a problem (except for Access, I don't use that). And I multi-task all the time.

Therefore, the more powerful TZ should be fine for you.

 

thanks soundgood, im sorry not to mention im NOT satisfied with your opinion, but still didnt answers of what i need. but thanks for replying.

any other advice or comment?
regards

 

Hello everybody, i have a big problem with my Vaio TZ3. My recovery DVD is broken, and i formatted the backup partition. I don't need all the softwares and drivers couse i just downloaded by vaio-link site. What i need is the "AV mode" software. I can't find it on the web. Can someone help me or give me a public ftp link to this software?

Thanks.

 

i have a TZ with pretty much the exact specs you mention (except 120g hd instead of 100). i had it for about 3 weeks now and love it. here's my opinion:

- word processing
no problem running word 2007.

- office application
be more specific please. i use word, excel and outlook on a daily basis.

- little bit running access queries
don't use access

- little image editing--photoshop and solidworks
photoshop runs ok. not really great, but not really bad either. doing some light image editing is no problem. haven't used solidworks on it.

- and watching dvds.
no problems for me.

- multitasking
depends on what you're doing. if you're trying to render a 3D image and watch a dvd at the same time, performance is going to suck. if you're typing up a document and cruising the web at the same time, you should have no problems.

 

I'm not sure exactly what kind of answer that will satisfy, short of being told what to do.

It will do everything that you have mentioned just fine with respect to the slow 4200rpm hard drive. This is a sub notebook and the small size comes with certain compromises. For general office apps and DVD watching, it will be fine.

 

Hi

I am looking at getting a UK Spec VGN-TZ31WN/B.

Acording to the specs it comes ti HSDPA (3G) does anyine know where the sim slot is and also to which network it will me locked to.

 

Hi,

I am looking to buy a sony vaio VGN-TZ190N/B, i really like the laptop but it is kind of pricey. I have found a refurbished one for around 2k and a brand new one 2700.

Please give me your review and your experience of the laptop. I am looking to purchase it in couple of days. Thanks so much in advance. o yeah.. this is my first post.


Edit: I read over thousand of post... lol... wow... This is what i have found out:

uninstall all the bloatware or downgrade to xp? My question which bloatware need to be remove? Does anyone know a list of the software need to be remove?

Also learn there a extra unused partition that can be remove that take ups space...

how do you remove that partition?

Basically if you do a clean install with windows vista sp1 should that be good enough? Does the laptop come with windows vista?

One thing i really couldn't find out, if does it get hot on the bottom. my sony vgn s460 get really hot! thanks

 

Mine gets a bit warm at the bottom, not burning hot though but a bit uncomfortable if you put it on bare skin, like if I were wearing shorts.

Since you want to buy the TZ190 which has a solid state drive vs hard drive that is in mine, I'd assume yours should run cooler at the bottom.

 

I understand that the SIM card slots in behind the battery (i.e. you need to remove the battery completely to add/remove your SIM card).

In the UK, Sony are in bed with T-Mobile. However, there is no hardware/firmware lock to prevent you using another network. It's just that the default software controlling the WWAN is locked to T-Mobile... so you will most likely need to remove the WWAN software and install something else if you want to use a SIM from another network (I've read that you might lose the ability to monitor bandwidth usage, etc, doing this).

I should state that I don't (yet) have a TZ - I'm in the research and drooling phase - so the above is based on what I've seen and read online, rather than personal experience.

 

Thanks for the Info InfyMcGirk.

Went out and purchased the laptop and so far all is looking great.

I have to say with Vista the laptop runs quite well, of course i uninstalled most of the rubbished preinstalled.

On the HSPDA the laptop came with a Sim from T-Mobile which needs activating and you get 30days free. Not sure if it is locked but will try later on.

 

Hey thanks for your reply, i just order tz195 with the 48SSD, What do you recommend me to do to optimize my laptop in speed. I want my laptop to be super fast. I read alot of post stating to delete the bloatware install on the laptop but any other things i can do to make it lighting fast. I want to make alot of research so when i receive it i will make those changes immediately.

One question is: Should i install fresh clean install and remove the extra partition so i can free up space?

Do you know whats the difference between the tz 195n/xc and 190n/b i just figure the hd and the larger battery. If so, why the name change.....?

 

I'm pretty sure both models have the same battery, which is the standard TZ battery. The 190 has a 32gb SSD whereas the 195 has a 48gb SSD.

N/B means that the lid is black in color whereas X/C means that the lid has a "Premium Carbon" finish where you can see weaves.

An example is below. The picture below is of a Vaio SZ but the TZ195 would look similar.

http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/1743/5321913191d59e703f3hs7.jpg

On my TZ, I simply replaced Vista with Windows XP in the first hour of getting it. It takes noticeably fewer resources than Vista. I have happily used XP for six years now with no reason to change. I probably will migrate to Vista soon though.

 

Hi, Rahu

Just went through some problems with clearanceclub.com, hopefully i get my laptop... thanks so much for your help.

 

Vista's really buggy. On computer lock it disconnects WiFi, pulling a USB mouse will result in a "IRQ_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL" = blue screen of death. Slow, doesn't work with some programs, just completely suck. If the computer didn't bundle with Vista I wouldn't use it :x its just... since I've already paid for the license :x feel like a waste if I don't use it

 

I dunno what you guys are doing with vista, but I have had no problems with it on my tz190.

 

Maiev - maybe should try a clean install, if you haven't already, could help you sort a lot of those problems.

 

What exactly went wrong? I thought about buying from there before I went a different route.

 

Yes, please elaborate. Seems like a good price for what's given. I'm only worried about a warranty before purchasing. Accidental warranty available for purchase?

 

Hello Guys,

can someone tell me, when I use my TZ31 with 1.33 MHZ with accu, how much CPU Speed have I at this time? Can I change the speed in Bios?

Thanks to you all.
Bernd from Germany

 

The specs on the TZ31 say it's a 1.2ghz. What is accu? Is it an overclocking program?

 

What route did you go? I may have to go your way.

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Clearance_Club

Seems like the most recent reviews are bad. And I searched this forum for the site and only ONE person keeps going ON AND ON about them. I suspect he's some sort of viral marketer spreading the good word. I'll wait to hear more about this website.

 

I have cancel my order with them, Make a long story short: Charge my credit card twice one with master card, second time with visa. Called the bank to verify fund over a million times. Stupid company wont accept cc because they said there are alot of fraudulate activities going on. There excuse was they are not cover by mastercard or visa. he ask me to buy it through amazon a link was provided to me but it seem pretty shady.. so, i cancel my order.

For the Record:

Call them about 10 times
CAll the bank 7 times
Both of my funds are still authorize for the taking if they choose to take my money. MAN this sucks! I hope i don't get scam!

I really want my laptop for school too!

Anyone know i can buy a good laptop for a good price.....

 

Anyone know of the compatibility of the 505 AC Poweradapter with a TZ notebook? I stumbled across two oldschool 505 chargers that have the same voltage and similiar amp ratings to my TZ. The tips are even the same size and are exactly the same with visual inspection.
Figured I would ask around here before I plug it in and blow something up.

 

Sorry with ACCU ein mean Akku/Battery,my mistake.
I have the VGN-TZ31VN/X with 1,33 MHZ but when I use my Book without Power adapter how high is the speed?

Sorry for my not perfect english I live in germany.

THANKS TO YOU!
Bernd

 

I would like to buy notebook VAIO TZ, but I have some practical questions before buying.
- about mechanical stability after longer use (for example be hinges for display)
- appeared some problems with hardware, which had to be resolved only in service?
- what are the main differences between TZ21 and TZ31 series? (in addition to prices which is a lot different)
Thank you for answers

 

I went the ebay route. I'm glad I did now after reading horrible reviews of clearance club.

 

As long as the output is 16V and the amp rating is at least the same as that of the TZ's adapter. I don't recall offhand what the amp output is for the TZ adapter. I use my old TR adapter with the TX and the TZ.

 

You can set that in the power applet that resides in the system tray. I run mine with the CPU on full even on battery - with the extended I still get over 5 hours, which is plenty, and it helps with multi-tasking since I'm often playing music or videos while surfing. The real battery killer seems to be when I'm using WWAN.

 

Has anybody heard about quality problems or faulty laptops in the TZ series especially TZ295? Are there still problems with the battery clips, as mentioned in the first messages of the thread?

 

Is there a laptop that is compared to tz?

 

closest is probably the toshiba r500 or ASUS U2E

 

Is anyone else waiting for the new TZ model to come out? All this talk about how radically different the montevina chipsets are makes me want to wait. I'd really like to have my new laptop by August the latest. If it were just a slight upgrade in technology, that's fine. I know technology moves quick. But a new model so different makes me hesitate.

If I have to wait until October, hmm. Might be worth waiting the two or so months.

 

Great! THX!

 

I got the downgrade to XP discs from Sony and downgraded to XP. Everything went fine except for the fingerprint reader. When I start windows and shut it down I am getting a message to please connect the fingerprint reader. At first I thought it was a drive issue so I downloade and installed the drivers from Sony and it still is not working.

I never tested it in Vista but had no messages about it not working. Is it possible it was not connected at the factory? Is there some hidden settings or anything else I should be looking for?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Ken.

 

Same here ducati, I'm waiting for TZ with the Montevina to come out. Some say in September they are going to be released the Montevina ULV, other say in June. Hope we don't have to wait too much. From 945 chipset to Centrino 2 is not just a slight upgrade, trust me is worth waiting.

 

Hi Everyone,

As I discuss in the following thread, when I launch the Vaio Camera Capture Utility on my TZ, all I get (despite much effort to correct the problem), is a blue screen where my face should be, and the words, “NO INPUT”:

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=252494

The reason I’m posting in this thread (after so far only reading the first 79 pages, please forgive me, I'll catch up one of these days) is because the one response I received for my problem suggests that perhaps the camera is not attached to the motherboard, and I thought you all could perhaps help in this regard. My question is whether there is a feasible way for me to check to see whether the camera is attached to the motherboard without first doing what Sony has asked me to do: namely, completely restoring my TZ to factory conditions, then checking to see if the camera works and, if not, then sending it in to them for repair.

Thank you for your help.

 

I don't think it will be June at all, I think that is when the other Vaios models are refreshed/replaced though. Of course the Vaio T series (TR, T, TX, TZ) use ULV processors and Montevina ULV will not be released until September.

The TR, T and TX series all were released around September of 2003, 2004 and 2005. So I think thats when the TZ will be replaced as well.

I will sell my TZ or give it to my brother and hopefully buy the new model as soon as it comes out and be the first to review it here on Notebookreview, I have been here over 3 years and still have not reviewed a notebook. I would love it if I could review the TZ's replacement for NBR.

 

Awesome. rahulnirmal, I'm already looking forward to your review of the newest Vaio T series when it is finally released.

 

As several have seen by my posts in the Sony section, I am a HUGE RABID fan of ultraportables and especially the Vaio T series. Ever since I saw the first entry, the TR in my electronics store, thats when I feel in love with ultraportables and keep researching and watching the TR, T, TX and TZ.

I really would like to get the next T series from Sony when its released ASAP and be the first to review it here and have everyone ask me questions and all that.

 

rahulnirmal, I will definitely ask you lots of questions about the new T series when you've received it. :wink:

Who knows? My next laptop may just be the new Vaio T series.

 

I would love this, too

What do you think/what has the past history been for initial pricing for these notebooks, rahul? ~$1800 for an entry level TZ replacement? I suspect SSD prices will come down substantially, though perhaps September is a bit early. Perhaps December.