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    Going to purchase a FW190CTO tonight, couple questions?

    Discussion in 'VAIO / Sony' started by essential, Oct 2, 2008.

  1. essential

    essential Notebook Guru

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    I decided to go ahead and order a FW190CTO tonight even though it's a Christmas gift because I want to get the HiColor screen at native 1600x900, and because I can get the $100 off with Sony Card deal. I have a couple questions before I purchase though if anyone has any information.

    Config: T9400 CPU, 3GB RAM, 200GB 7200rpm HD, DVD (not Blu-ray), ATI Video, HiColor Screen, Extended Battery = $1,499.99

    1) I searched these forums and Google but haven't found anything ... are there any eCoupons that currently work with FWs?

    2) I plan on formatting and installing XP when I get it. I'm upgrading to the 200GB (7200rpm) HD because I want a 7200rpm HD and it's the only option, and it costs $100 to upgrade. However, on Newegg, I can get a 250GB-320GBrpm HDs for around $100. Am I better off upgrading to the stock 7200rpm HD or leaving the default HD and buying a new HD and installing it myself?

    I deal mostly with desktop computers, if you think I should buy an aftermarket drive, how easy or difficult is it to install a HD into a laptop? Do you have to take it all apart? Do I risk voiding any warranty or damaging any other parts? Would their be any more heat/noise from a aftermarket 7200rpm HD as opposed to the 7200rpm HD Sony offers? Are their preferable brands when buying laptop HDs (I purchase WD's for my desktops)? Please recommend a drive I should buy if you have one in mind.

    3) The FW line looks "squatty" as it was said in one of the reviews. Is the screen itself actually taller and wider than a 15.4" screen, or is it just wider? Pictures make it look shorter and wider, but I know that might just be the appearance because it's wider.

    4) Is there any reason anyone can think of that I should wait till closer to Christmas to order, any possible deals coming? I'm ordering now because I’m worried the FW190CTO won't be available near Christmas (mid-November) along with the $100 Sony Credit Card deal.

    Thanks for any help/advice.
     
    essential, Oct 2, 2008
    #1