M18x Pre-Order Configuration Questions... Ask HERE

Seeing multiple 'I need help with my configuration' posts... Please ask here. Lets not fill up the forum with these type of threads.

For WiDi or Wireless HD discussion, please see these two threads -

http://forum.notebookreview.com/ali...18x-wireless-hd-sibeam-discussion-thread.html

http://forum.notebookreview.com/ali...m17xr3-m18x-intel-widi-discussion-thread.html

Also reference the following material -
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/M18x/
http://forum.notebookreview.com/alienware-m18x/579752-m18x-part-number-list-reference.html



Thanks.

 

I'll start.

Is there a way to get Dell to give you a single stick of ram rather than the 2x2GB variety? Just seems a waste to get the 2x2GB, then purchase another 2x4GB and have the 2x2GB sit.

I guess I'll ask when I order...

 

Probably not. Sales will not have the ability to override the default configuration in terms of removing a base item. Think of it in the sense of calling and asking them to remove the HDD and that you will provide your own - they just dont have a way to communicate this to the assembly line in the factory or pricing info which could be applied.

You can ask but my guess is a big NEGATIVE.

 

I have read a post by someone who claims to have achieved exactly this ... so I wouldn't rule it out, but I don't know. Generally if you talk to a person high enough up on the sales/tech side, you can get a lot.

My Inspiron (which is crap now, but was amazing a few years ago when I got it) basically had a configuration only available in XPS laptops, but he crammed it all into an inspiron to get it under my budget.

 

I have a question...or ten lol

In the UK, we have the option of a raid configuration with two 500gb Momentus XT hybrid drives.....

Question is do these drives actually work properly in a raid? - I read on one forum (think it was seagate) that Raided Xt's dont work???

http://forums.seagate.com/t5/Moment...causes-quot-lag-spikes-quot-in/m-p/56055#M394


Ideas?

Also, dont see the OC'd 2920xm on the UK site as of yet....and I know we cant order with wireless HD/Vizio - why is that? - is it down to software licence for Vizio outside the states or something....seems odd as its such a huge feature and we cant order it in the UK

 

Should I get the Dual 460M's or the 6970M Crossfires for 3D gaming and Blu-Ray on a TV?

 

loaded question wraith...

Reference this thread here -
http://forum.notebookreview.com/ali...idia-gtx-460m-sli-vs-ati-radeon-hd-6970m.html

For BluRay via HDMI out, either one will be fine. For gaming, either one will certainly be ok for today's games. If you want the heavy hitting benchmark numbers and want to keep current for a bit, 6970 Crossfire is the way to go. The 460 SLI config is nice however the 460 is showing its age in terms of current NV flavor. Perhaps we'll see a 'refresh' of sorts down the road relating to NV GPUs for the 18x - for now, if you want NV, the 460 is the only choice.

Check the thread... lots of thoughts on the two options are presented.

 

The 460's will be your only factory option for 3D gaming.

Edit, BB beat me to it. (-:

 

lol - I did leave that out. He did mention 3D gaming. Oops. Yep, 460 config only then. Keep in mind wraith, you'll need to invest in the 3D Vision kit and 3D compatible external display as the 18x does not provide an integrated 3D Vision solution like the 17xR3. Don't hold your breath for this either - I dont believe we'll ever see this on the 18x - at least not immediately.

 

Guys, you are rather misleading on this. 3D gaming is perfectly doable with the 6970s. The 6970s support 3d gaming and video via 1.4 HDMI out.

 

That would make a great thread topic... if its possible.

All I know concerning AMD and 3D is what is shown on their site.
Supported Hardware

Supported Notebook Graphics
HP Envy 17 3D with ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD 5850
MSI Wind Top AE2420 All-in-One with ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD 5730
Lenovo IdeaPad y560d with ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD 5730

If any 18x owners (or 17x for that matter), set this up, please do post a tutorial/configuration/hardware thread to discuss it.

Apologies - I was not attempting to mislead anyone. Look forward to seeing a thread on this.

 

Didn't think so BB, pretty sure your only goal is to help people out here with your considerable knowledge on subjects. It took quite a bit of research on my part to see that, in fact, AMD is supporting 3d gaming via video out. Because they were behind on this, when you do random searches you get a lot of older stuff saying they aren't compatible, but in fact they are. I have also read complaints that the link you posted (the official AMD 3d compatibility link) isn't fully accurate either. People are asking AMD to update this (although the same is true for the official NV link as well).

Further I have read that AMD is continuing to upgrade their 3d support, and while they are still a little behind (NV has more compatibility), they are dedicated to offering 3d solutions and are continuing to work on offering more options.

 

I think what is really needed here is exactly what you suggest, we need people running 6970s (or AMD in general) to offer feedback about 3d setups, this is something that I have yet to find much info on despite my considerable effort at researching.

one good article, although somewhat critical does stress that AMD is committed to 3D gaming...
AMD: Stereo 3D here to stay and HD3D. | Tech|Inferno

A 3rd Party Support site:
DDD - Bringing 3D to Mainstream

 

Keep an eye on this thread... Might want to chime in as well shaden.
http://forum.notebookreview.com/gam...cards/577763-please-help-me-setup-3d-amd.html

Relating to the M18x, lets get back to config chat. Once one of the 6970 Crossfire owners takes posession of their system, perhaps we'll see a thread go up on how to set it up. I would do it but I don't have an interest in 3D gameplay (gives me a headache - lol).

 

Haha, I figured as much.

I do have a 3D compatible display (Acer GD235HZ) and my roommate next year has a 3D compatible HDTV so I was thinking of using the WirelessHD setup. I remember a Dell tech telling me about a week before the m18x coming out that there would be an option for 3D LCD screen. Shows how reliable they are.

As am I. The Envy 17 3D was on my radar for my first year in school though I've heard less than pleasant comments from a friend who currently has it. But the 3D was still gorgeous and probably my impetus to add that feature.

The iz3d and DDD have lists more games than the AMD site though not as comprehensive in terms of quality as NV's (and third-party as well). AMD's had to play catchup while NV made things relatively seamless. They do support 3D gaming via video out. I presume the mobile versions may also do this and though a Dell rep has said so, I'll have to see it to believe it.

I'm the same boat as well. I've had both ATI and NV cards in the past (actually they tend to alternate each time, lol) and I've seen good support out of them. Question is who can deliver better.

Will do. I'm probably going to make my buy tomorrow through a Dell rep on the phone (and hope to haggle something out of it) since I'll need the lappy by June 3rd. May end up going the m17x 3D route since it has a smaller build time though. If I ultimately decide to go AMD, I'll be more than happy to give a report ASAP.

 

I'm interested in the wireless HD/Vizio option too Stevie. Can anyone suggest why this would have issue in the UK?

Was toying with getting it with m18x from HIDevolution but now concerned there would be potential issues.

 

Im still kind of wondering about this too...its not even an option on the UK site but that may be down to Vizio licencing, im not sure....just know its odd that such a huge feature is missing from the UK options.

Also, if anyone can clarify the question about raided hybrid drives? - the link I posted above seems to point out that seagate themselves state that raiding them was not how they are intended to be used yet Dell are offering them in that capactiy - weird...I wouldnt want to buy them as an option to find out its more headache than its worth!

 

Pondering the use of the Vizio. Since it has the transmitter and reciever, all of your inputs need to be close to the transmitter such as Bluray, games console, SKY. This hardly frees up the laptop to be used anywhere in the room. It would have to sit with all the other equipment. Personally all my equipment is already with the TV so the Vizio would not help me use my m18x wirelessly at all, would it? This bit of tech seems to be a rather expensive device to tidy cables. Or am I missing something and the m18x can trasmit to the reciever independently of pluging into the transmitter?

Can anyone clarify please.

 

The way I understand it the m18x has a built in transmitter if you get the wirelessHD when you order it with the machine.

 

OK that would make much more sense.

Still makes no sense why the wireless HD kit is absent in the UK. Dell UK are really giving me few good reasons to make the sale here rather than HIDevolution. At least there I can get all the options US buyers get.

 

Just spoke to a non to helpful dell/alienware rep on the chat. Asked about the availablity of the wirelessHD tech and he kept asking about my modem. Clearly he was on about the WiDi system and was oblivious to the internal transmitter and vizio kit offered in US.

Not a good sign. Another rep said no details and can only email me when available.

Oh Dell UK you do not do yourselves any favours, do you?

 

I just had the same from Dell Live Chat....asked about the uk OC'd 2920xm - answer was no, its not an option......im like, "for gods sake man, I know that - im asking you when it IS gonna be an option!!!"

Also asked why no WiHD on UK models - again, useless reply "we do not know if or when - please gimme your number so i can update you...."

Lost my patience....ended live chat....I would get more straight answers by talking to a tree....

 

This is correct.

 

Could also be the tech hasn't passed whatever testing UK regulations require for radio devices.

 

^^ I think this may be closer to the mark, our a/c manager informed us the WiHD won't be offered due to regulatory issues in Europe

 

Yeah, alot of TV's nowadays come equipped with receivers too so if your machine has the transmitter - you're set. So really, not everyone needs the receiver and it wouldn't be right for them to charge $300 for the whole kit if alot of people only need the transmitter in their PC.

Personally, I don't a wireless recevier anywhere... but I did order the transmitter in my machine because I do plan on buying a new tv soon for the main room and I will probably spend the extra cash to have the bluetooth built into it for Netflix and PS3 and now my m18x.

Yeah, you woulnd't think they'd send something out like that untested, but they do it all the time. Sure, it may work in the begining... but I highly doubt it has been well tested. I surely hope there are no issues, but with my personal experience... I'm not going to hold my breath. Any extra info regarding this matter would be greatly appreciated.

 

If that statement by the Seagate official on that thread is anything to go by, makes me wonder what the heck Dell s doing raiding two hybrid XT's.

Obviously, I have no evidence and am only going off what Ive read there but if a Segate rep has said that......hmmmm....

Really....any advice on this would be beneficial to us all, especially those wanting raided hybrid drives.

More threads about the subject: will add as i find...

http://forums.seagate.com/t5/Moment...00GB-RAID-0-FW-to-SD24-performance/td-p/84006

http://forums.storagereview.com/index.php/topic/28858-momentus-xt-raid-problems/

http://forum.notebookreview.com/sager-clevo/523386-seagate-momentus-xt-raid-0-a.html

http://www.techwarelabs.com/speed-on-the-cheap-seagate-momentus-xt-raid-0/

 

The funny thing is the cost of one hybrid drive is just £30 so logically it would be £60 to raid 2 drive but the price quoted is 260 pound!!!

I think the wirelessHD is not included simply because the person who put it in the website forgot about it or did not care. I seriously think that's the case given the lack of ability most of them have.

At the start to get wireless bluetooth you had to pay £30 extra and when it was officially launched it was included as basic. The rep at the time who I talked with before the official launch were talking about the price and he was completely silent when I told him bluetooth now comes as standard.

I even talked to someone from Executive Customer Support Team about the WirelessHD and all I got was the parts are based on country you live in and short supply of it. That was his answer.

 

whats a 7200RPM SATA 3Gb/s (i know its the hard drive, but is it good quality ? what is the 3GB's ? and is that good, or under par?

 

Lol all I can say is to explain what those words mean 7200RPM is round per minute the disk plate spins. The higher RPM, the faster (fastest RPM right now is 10k RPM but I'm not sure if they are available on a 2.5 inches hard drive which is laptop hard drive. SATA 3GB/s is so called SATA 2, a store-interface to connect storages devices and other components in ur system. The latest SATA version on the market right now is SATA 3, also called SATA 6GB/s.

For question of the quality Dell is the only one who can answer it

 

So the 6970m does support 3D. To take advantage of it i will need a 3D capable TV and hdmi cable to connect. Can i also connect with the in built wireless transmitter (WiDi?) in the m18x?

Why then does the m17x r3 with 6970m card not have 3d?

As Batboy said above, someone with AMD card please share your 2cents.

Can anyone provide a guide on how to take advantage of 3d? How to switch between 3d and 2d when connected to external 3d monitor?

 

It does not have internal 3d with the radeon 6970 or any AMD card. 3d with Dell is currently only supported on the nvidia gtx 460m on the 120hz display on the m17x r3. The m18x does not have that display. 3d is also possible on an external 3d TV/monitor via HDMI with either amd or nvidia cards for the m18x or m17x r3. As far as WiDi I am not sure if that does 3d, but it does transmit non-3d to an external display.

 

WiHD does support 3d over wireless.

 

Ok things a little clearer now.. Thanks guys.

 

So I'm still curious if the AMD flavor can provide 3D over WiHD.

 

All it's doing is transmitting a signal. That said, I'm fairly certain it's only 60mhz which means no 3D. I could be wrong, tho.

 

Do you guys think the gtx 560m will be more powerful than a 6970m??

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 560M - Notebookcheck.net Tech
the performance is between a fast GeForce GTX 460M and a Mobility Radeon HD 5870??

according to this list the gtx 560m is weaker than the 6970m? so why the hoopla around it??

if and when available will you all prefer the 560m or 6970m?

reason i am posting this here is becaue this will decide for me whether i should wait for the 560m or order now?

 

I agree with this ----->

 

The question is: is the gtx 560m worth any wait at all??

I know it is foolish to wait six months before making a purchase as new tech will keep coming out but waiting for a few weeks before making an educated call on the best option for me is reasonable..

Say, if the 560m was available today.. would any of you order it?if yes, then why? it is not faster than the 6970m anyway..

i just dont get it.. what so special about the 500series? it is not faster than nvidia's own 485m so what is better in the new series?? few watts less consumed... is that it??

 

Personally, I have to agree with BatBoy 100%.

Lets just say if you wait for the "next thing on the block" - it might arrive in 4 weeks...great....but then!!!! - OMG....someone announces XXX and you think..."heck, i should wait for that".

You can wait forever and a day and THEN buy only to find out a week later that the new kid on the block is bigger, faster etc etc etc...

The 6970m x/f is the top banana at the moment.....probably in 3-6 mths there will be a revision with different gpu options but the problem you face then is being back at square one.....news will have broken on the next thing in the pipeline and you will be thinking about waiting all over again...

Just bite the bullet, get an order in and enjoy it!

 

I agree and I don't The problem with the m18x is that its been rolled out very poorly. I know that no time is the "perfect" time to buy, there is always something in the pipeline. But clearly sometimes are better then others. Ie: When a new series or new top end comes out, yes you often pay a premium, but you at least you know for 6 months lets say, you have tops (generally speaking), how long has the 485m been tops ? Then you have times like now, where the M18x has been rolled out (and the 6970s are great in CF, but if you are looking for NV...) without the best card available (in fact a rather low powered card considering) ... and when less then a month down the road a whole new and superior set of cards are about to be released. ...

According to Eric (Posterous) the 5xx series cards are hitting the m18x in June (originally he hinted at June 7). If this is the case ... 3 week wait ? I'd say hold off on the trigger ... .

 

It's a choice for sure, and only you can ultimately decide the "but I have to have it now" issue. 6970x2 is the fastest right now. 460 sli is only slightly faster than ONE 6970. That's just how the grass is right now.
In a month, call it 4-6 weeks, this is expected to change. Some will wait and see. Some will wait a little and some will wait a lot. You'll have to decide at what point you want to leap on what is available at the moment and the balance of choices you have at that time.

If the question is what are "we" doing out here? Some leaped. I'm waiting.

Maybe that helps. Or maybe it just makes it harder to decide.

 

Two things:

First, how are 6970's rather low powered cards?

And second, the 5xx coming in June is the 560M - that's all he's stated. He was already wrong abut the 485M coming to the M17xR3 and now the M18x it seems.

And third, the 485M came out how long after the 560M? These things could be a whiles away still, and there haven't been as many rumblings about a 580M w/ the Sager's/Clevos which would certainly get it

Fact of the matter is, the 6970M in CF is the best option available right now for dual GPUs without going into dual-power-brick territory

It's actually a great time to buy now when you consider that:

The Sandy Bridge i7 quads are equivalent to the mid-high end desktop CPUs. This was quite a step up for mobile processor power - and theyre very energy efficient too

Desktop GPU progress has slowed considerably... you're getting some serious desktop-level GPU power with a 6970M CF setup (essentially 2 x downclocked desktop 6850's)

 

Chewie you didn't read my post well.

I said the 6970s are great, but if you are waiting for Nvidia solutions, the 460s are rather underpowered....

And my question wasn't how long after the 560m the 485 came out for, but rather the statement that you can buy high end at the right time and stay on top of the game for a while, how long has the 485 been the best card rolling ? Quite a while, timing can make a difference ...

 

Simple answer to this one then is that if you WANT Nvidia as an option and arent happy with 460m sli, you HAVE to wait......end of story. There is no point asking "when" and "how soon" as that is like asking a chicken when its gonna lay an egg ......

It will happen when it happens and if you specifically want NV, and specifically dont want 460m sli the simple answer to your predicament is just to not buy an M18x.....at least not right now.

 

Chewie he's referring to the 460's being lower powered.

The 485 was simply surpassed by newer chips - no need to offer something that was going to be out of vogue 30 days out of the gate, meaning if they offered 485 in May but in June you could get 580's, you'd just make customers peeved.

6970 is the "fastest" option available right now.

Whether it is a great time to buy is really up to the buyer. Until there are higher powered Nvidia options available on the M18x, I don't consider it a great time to buy at all. Plus at the time of introduction, prices are their highest. That can be further reason to wait.

Sandy bridge is great. 6970CF is fast as a bandit. Absolutely agreed the platform is going to fly. Just allow for those that want other GPU's. And I mean this in the kindest way, honestly. The 480M never came to the R2. So this may never materialize. But 30 days to "see how it goes" doesn't seem crazy or unreasonable.

 

Nvidia clearly stated at the 485m will be "THE" mobile gpu for some time. If you look at ati's leaked road map you would see that the 7000s series isn't going to be released till Q1 2012 with a 28nm. Since the 485 already is slightly more powerful than the 6970 in certain games and benchmarks, there is no reason for a successor to come out. For right now and for the rest of the year "THE" gpu options are the 6970s or the 485s. And I'm pretty sure that not too many people are willing to spend the extra hundreds of dollars for such a small side grade.

 

Unless your a "die hard" nvidia fan....personally, i dont care who gets the job done...if they perform almost on a par and one is cheaper than the other, the cheaper one gets my money LOL

The NV's are probably gonna run a bit hotter than the 6970's too.....not sure I would want my system to burn up LOL (although cooling should be adequate, i just dont like the thought of lots of unneccesary heat)

 

Heh, I waited 6 years. But now that I actually need a laptop, I finally splurged.

 

Thats what Im saying. Ive been laptoping for most of my 30 year life. Ive always had poor quality systems though. At least compared to gaming rigs. This will be my first beast. And I spent 2250, hardly anythign compared to others, but still... a splurge.

And about the video card changes.. you can pull out the video later, and put in another one if you want. Dell told me its Low Profile PCIe. Whats the big deal ?