Welcome to the ASUS Transformer Book TX300 Owners Lounge.
This first page of the thread will be regularly updated. Your contributions and postings in the thread are welcome, please help each other. I will try to capture the major learning points and FAQ's on this first page.
I hope it helps you!
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Summary:
The ASUS Transformer Book TX300 is a Win8 laptop/tablet with little compromises, featuring a 13.3" detachable Full HD IPS tablet.
What it is:
- A workhorse with full core I7 horsepower
- 13 inch HD touchscreen
- Stunning looks (in the eye of the beholder of course)
- An HD tablet with big screen real-estate and despite its size surprisingly easy to use
- Puts the Metro interface of Win8 (I know it has a new name..) to it's full use.
- Excellent for the business user, who wants a tablet with him/her at all times.
- Good enough for demanding games with its dedicated graphics processor
- Many ports, a lot of memory space, a color-intensive IPS panel and last but not least superb processing.
What it's not:
- Due to its weight it's not an ultrabook.
- Although the specs are excellent, the real gamer will still need an (even) better dedicated graphics processor.
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SPECIFICATIONS:
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- Processor
Intel® Core™ i7 3517U Processor or
Intel® Core™ i5 3317U Processor- Operating System
Windows 8 Pro
Windows 8- Memory
DDR3 1600 MHz SDRAM, OnBoard Memory 4 GB- Display
13.3" 16:9 IPS FHD (1920x1080) Glare panel- Graphic
Integrated Intel® HD Graphics 4000- Storage
320GB HDD (in the keyboard part) with 128 G SSD (in the tablet part)
OR
500GB HDD (in the keyboard part) with 128 G SSD (in the tablet part)- Card Reader
2 -in-1 card reader ( SD/ MMC) card reader (Micro SD )- Camera
Front HD camera
Front HD camera & 5M rear camera (optional)- Networking
Integrated BT 4.0 support (on WLAN+ BT 4.0 combo card)- Interface
1 x COMBO audio jack
2 x USB 3.0 port(s)
1 x RJ45 LAN Jack for LAN insert
1 x micro HDMI
1 x Docking Connector
1 x mini Display Port
1 x SD card reader- Audio
Built-in 4 Speakers And Microphone
MaxxAudio support- Battery
2Cells 5000 mAh Polymer Battery
2Cells 3120 mAh Polymer Battery- Power Adapter
Output :
19 V DC, 3.42 A, 65 W
Input :
100 -240 V AC, 50/60 Hz universal- Dimensions
Tablet part: 340 x 213 x 4 ~11 mm (WxDxH)
Dock (keyboard part): 340 x 219 x 3 ~12.9 mm (WxDxH)- Weight
Tablet part: 0.95 kg (with Polymer Battery)
Dock (keyboard part): 0.95 kg (with Polymer Battery)- Certificates
UL, TUV, CE Marking Compliance, FCC Compliance, BSMI, Australia C-TICK / NZ A-Tick Compliance, CCC, GOST-R, CB, EPEAT, Energy star, CECP, RoHS, JATE- Manufacturer Warranty
2-year limited International hardware warranty. *different by country
On-line problem resolution through web interface (BIOS, Driver update)
OS (Windows® 8 ) install/uninstall consultation
Bundled software install/uninstall consultation
FAQ
Note: I'll gradually summarize the most important points under this FAQ section, with your help and support!
Is there a repair & dis-assembly guide?
We have not yet found one. Kindly post in the thread if you know one, or you can help with some pictures.
Is it correct there are 2 harddisks? How does it work?
Yes correct. There is a HDD in the keyboard part (what ASUS calls the 'dock') and an SSD in the tablet.
We recommend you install all programs in the SSD as you will always have them available when using the tablet only, as well as some basic data you may use in tablet mode. (Such as e-Pub files to read a book). Install your bulk data in the HDD which has a larger capacity. (The HDD comes in either 500GB or 350GB version).
Can I replace the harddisks?
- The HDD can be replaced, screws are visible and I tried; I will soon replace the HDD for a 500GB SSD I have laying around.
- The SSD can unfortunately not be easily replaced. I cannto detect any screws and would not know how to otherwise open the screen to access the SSD. If someone has found a way, report it, preferrably with pictures or video so courageous owners can follow your example!
Is the HDD simply disconnected when in tablet mode? Any issues?
Yes, the HDD disconnects, and easily reconnects when the tablet is reinserted in the keyboard dock. I had no issues so far, (other than that the data on the HDD where not accessible temporarily of course...).
Any performance tests available?
Volunteers sought! How fast is the SSD? How fast is the processor?
How long is battery life?
I sem to get about 5 hours when in laptop mode (screen attached and working away in desktop mode in Windows 8).
When in Tablet mode it seems longer, but not sure the 8 hours that ASUS claims are realistic.
Experiences or testing, anyone?
Can the battery be replaced?
The battery is built in. Not sure if it is possible to replace it as I didn't look at it when opening my TX300. But it probably requires soldering, so no, not easily..
Can I do upgrades without voiding the warranty?
You can upgrade the HDD without voiding the warranty, as far as we can see from the warranty terms.
Is the G51Jx suitable for gaming?
Yes, but there are obviously better specialist gaming machines.
What is the performance of the graphics card, comparative?
No tests yet. Perhaps Notebookcheck will have it soon.
How is the WiFi performance?
It seems WiFi performance is good from what I have been able to compare to others around me. Whenever a weak WiFi signal allowed someone to connect, I could connect too, whilst some others couldn't. Not a very scientific study but a reasonable indicator.
Does the TX300 run hot?
A little. Nothing burning my bare legs so far though. More scientific measurements are appreciated..
Are the speakers ok, I listen to a lot of music?
The speakers sound good, a little above average for such a laptop. Both speakers seem to be on the right end of the keyboard though, as admitted by ASUS. Apparently a consequence of the design. It doesn't bother me, but a music affectionada may not like it.
How is the built in webcam?
The video quality is good, you can see its an HD cam. No more need for external webcams on your trips.
The camera on the background makes nice pictures, but I still doubt many people would use it as it's quite awkward to take a picture with a 13 inch tablet..
How is the TX300 related to the TX300AC?
It's the same family and hardware, with exception of the processor and HDD. See specs.
How do I install MAC OS/X on the TX300?
Anyone up for a try? Dual booting?
I just did a clean install. Which camera driver do I use?
I (thank God) haven;t had to try this yet. But let's keep the section in so people can give input.
If you tried a clean install of Windows 7 for example; did you manage, and which drivers seem to give issues?
Same question on Windows 8 clean install, (not using factory reset/recover).
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ASUS BLOATWARE GUIDE
A good guide to manage/remove the pre-installed software and utilities on new ASUS notebooks:
ASUS Bloatware - Should I Remove It?
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REVIEWS
1) Notebookcheck, detailed review:
Review Asus Transformer Book TX300CA Convertible - NotebookCheck.net Reviews
2) Laptopmag:
ASUS Transformer Book TX300 Review | Laptop Reviews
3) Expert reviews (hands on):
Asus Transformer Book TX300 review - hands on | Expert Reviews
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UPDATES: BIOS, VIDEO, OTHER
BIOS
To be inserted once the laptop gets a bit more mature, or people start experimenting.
VIDEO
To be inserted once the laptop gets a bit more mature, or people start experimenting.
TX300 UPDATES
- Official support page (downloads):
ASUS Transformer Book TX300 - Notebooks & Ultrabooks - ASUS
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GPU OVERCLOCKING
I will insert if people start experimenting.
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CPU OVERCLOCKING
I will insert if people start experimenting.
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BENCHMARKS
I will insert if people start experimenting.
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Disclaimer:
I will not be held responsible for the above information being accurate in any way, shape or form. (If you can find me anyway, grin).
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Thanks for this.
This is on my short list.... but the 4GB might prevent me from pulling the trigger. -
I used to have 8GB in a previous laptop, and I have 12GB in my desktop. Honestly, I haven't noticed any difference so far with the 4GB memory in the TX300. Granted, if you push it to the limit you'll probably notice. But with lots of programs open, (multiple WinSCP, Excel, Word, Outlook 2013, Adobe Photoshop, and often 20 open tabs in 2 instances of Firefox each, just at this moment), and not noticing.., I'm not sure there is much reasonf or me to go above 4GB. Perhaps the fast SSD makes a difference that I hardly notice Windows swapping?
Not sure, I don;t want to put anyone into a position they might regret if they really use up the memory all the time...
Regards,
Jan -
Thanks -
Hey Fellow Transformer Bookers,
I am a very very happy owner of one of those beauties but also slightly frustrated with the modability. The news that the HDD is replaceable is very interesting!
Can you tell me what kinda screwdriver you used to open the keyboard dock? Especially the size is of interest since I don't currently own the tools and don't want to buy the wrong size
I've found that the SSD in the tablet part is a standard mSATA SSD. If we do manage to open the tablet part, the SSD should be replaceable. I'm not sure how much space is available though, as mSATA SSDs do come in different sizes. If any of you do find the courage to open up the tablet part, I'd very much like to replace the standard SSD with a bigger model. -
Keyboard Dock uses a Torx T5. Can get a kit at Harbor Freight fairly cheap that has the bit Item#93916.
The 2 back feet (rubber) need to be removed, there is a screw hidden under them.
After 12 screws removed, you can pry apart the base. You do not have to touch the screws on the hinge swivel mechanism.
The top LCD half.
Only 2 screws, in the mounting guide holes. Standard tiny Philips.
After these 2 removed, you can pry apart the case....carefully...
Hope this helps. -
I've had a close look at the tablet part. I've found the two tiny philips screws but even after removing those, careful prying doesn't do much. I suspect it's glued, rather than screwed which means that, should I be able to cut through the glue, it'll never stick back together again
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Thanks Bernzi! Looks good!
Correct me if I'm wrong:
I see the battery at the bottom (large black pack).
Just above that there's a mini-PCIe wireless adapter.
Then to the top-right there's another mini-PCIe thingy. I'm thinking that's the mSATA SSD? If so, would there be enough space there to plug in a slightly bigger SSD (in form factor, not storage space)? -
You are correct. But fitting a longer SSD might be an issue. See attached pic of what you have to work with. Might be able to Jerry Rig it, but no standard mounting for longer SSD. You can see from 2 pics, the current SSD is only mounted with 1 screw.
After relooking at it, the cut out in the motherboard was necessary because they put the SSD right in the same line. Don't think a longer SSD is going to fit, not worth it. Even if angled, you'd have to then worry about putting thin case back on.
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Thanks for the information!
It looks like this SSD confirms to the mSATA Mini (of mSata Half Size) standard. I can't find any supplier that'll sell anything over 128GB for that size and even those are hard to come by I'm afraid upgrading that one is, for the moment, a no-go.
Well, back to the drawing board we go. I'm going to order a decent set of Torx drivers and see if I can replace the HDD in the dock with an SSD; at least that'll cut back on mechanical wear from moving the TX300 around all the time -
Which mouse with a TX300?
What kind of mouse do you use with your TX300?
I had a look for a bluetooth one but didn't find anyone with positive commentaries (logitech m555b for exemple). As there are only 2 USB slots, I'd prefer not to use a wireless one.
What's your opinion with that? -
I've gone the way of the powered USB hub, adding 3 extra USB ports just for this purpose. The remaining USB3 port on the dock serves my external harddrive, the 4 powered USB ports on the hub serve my mouse/keyboard (Logitech with unified receiver), my headset (again: Logitech; G35 at home, a basic/cheap one when I'm on the road) and anything else I might need. -
Hello,
I am very happy with my TX300, but I have 2 'small' problems:
I have not been able to find a 'protection' so I can work either with the tablet +keyboard or the tablet alone. I do not mean a screen protection, of a bag/pouch to carry the tablet, but something to protect the TX300 while using it. A protection just for the tablet would be nice also.
Also, I am looking for an external battery to recharge the tablet (long travels by plane). There are plenty of models, but none is offering the connector for a TX300 (rectangular magnetic DC connector). A manufacturer (ENERGY I think) told me that this kind of connector is patented by ASUS ...
I would appreciate very much to get any information on these two subjects. -
As for the "protection whilst using": You should probably be able to find something for 13.3" Ultrabooks. The TX300 isn't anything different when the tablet is in the keyboard dock.
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Hey everyone,
I just got the TX300. So far I'm happy with it but I am having trouble getting Windows Updates installed. So far there are about 76 updates and it has literally taken up to 5 hours just to get to 50 installs complete. I left the laptop open all night and this morning, I find out that all of them failed to install.
The update I really want is the one that gives me access to download Windows 8.1. The update is KB 2871389. I have manually downloaded it from MIcrosoft Support and attempted to install it on its own. However, when it's loading the install, an error message pops up and says something along the lines of "this update is not applicable to your device." Is anyone else having this issue? I've never run into a problem with Windows failing to install any of its updates. Of course this is the first time I'm using Win 8 also.
A second thought is have you guys removed bloatware on the TX300? I typically do this with almost every device but I'm not sure which bloatware is needed and which I can actually remove. If I do a full reformat, can anyone point me in the right direction to find the proper drivers necessary for basic use of the TX300? -
Looks like everybody can't wait to take things apart. Just remember - if there's a piece left over after reassembly: first - join the club and second pray hard that you know where it goes. My problem doesn't seem to have been encountered yet, so is it my machine sold way out west or was I the lucky guy to get the only one made? I have the TX300CA: nice piece of work, but the key board Is insane. The are (at least) 45 keys with more than 3 or 4 functions, but there isn't a shred of evidence that says how to access them. After several attempts to get answers from ASUS Techs (they don't seem to grasp the problem) I'm bewildered. Any bright ideas or answers? Thanks in advance.
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Croga, thank you for the information, and sorry for the Delay
I will wait and praise until these accesories are available wth the new pad (T300, TD300 ...)
:hi2: -
Any idea what happened to Transformer book TX300? Its out of stock on all the online retailers!
I was looking to buy the Corei7 version (with 8GB RAM) But just cant find it in stock anywhere!
Did ASUS discontinue it or something? -
Hi,
I have a TX300AC and its a great thing. But.. I want to use it for yacht navigation and this requires a USB data connection. well, now, if i take the tablet part apart from the dock, it appears that there is no communication between the dock with its USB ports and the tablet. I didn't realize this when I bought it. Is there any cable that connects the tablet and the dock? Or mayby a 40pins to USB convertor to apply at the 40 pins connector of the tablet? I have seen these cables for asus TF100.. Etc. Transformers, but according to ASUS this doesn't work for the TX300series.
can anyone help? -
All TX300s I can find only come with 4GB of RAM. As far as I can see, no 8GB version was ever produced.
All available models are still being produced and generally available, as far as I can find (Dutch shops have stock and good availability, ones that don't have stock quote ETA of 3-5 days) -
- https://www.bestbuybusiness.com/bbfb/en/US/adirect/bestbuy%3bjsessionid=392A4CE787FC7E63938C59BBCBA9469E.bstby3?cmd=catProductDetail&productID=BB19301165&operation=Ratings
- XOTIC PC | ASUS T300LA-XH71T Touch Transformer Book
- ASUS Transformer Book T300LA-XH71T 13.3" Convertible 2-in-1 Tablet / Ultrabook. ASUS T300LA-XH71T -
The T300 has been announced as the successor to the TX300. I have, however, not seen it in the wild yet. This may be due to the fact that the SSD in the tablet of the T300 (mini-mSATA, 256GB) isn't commercially available yet, the same may be true of the RAM it's supposed to be using.
The only real choices are to either wait or go for a TX300 (and, thus, lowering your specifications) -
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Has anyone be able to find to find 12V car charger for this laptop? How about adding more memory? Is this impossible (for a normal person with normal tools) even in theory? Memory is soldered directly to the motherboard?
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- Memory is soldered to the main board. Basically: Forget about upgrading any of the tablet's innards at the moment. mSata Mini 256GB is being worked on but not available as of yet.
Sorry I can't bring you any better news than that. -
Hi Guys,
I can't seem to find a replacement power supply anywhere! Does anybody know a link to a website where these are sold? It's as if Asus has just move onto a new spec machine and is no longer supporting the TX300???? -
Nicky;
I had the same problem. I asked Asus and even they didn't know of any way to get it. I asked the "repair" department of the shop I bought it and they, too, couldn't get a hold of anything.
In the end I found a shop on Ebay that sold them. One in Canada that wouldn't ship to Europe, one in Germany that would.
I'll see if I can find the links for you.... -
Hello, I have a tx300ca. Mine has the rear camera. I have not been able to use it. Its like it doesnt exist. Anyone please help. The front webcam works fine although the rear one I cannot access. -
Kevin@GenTechPC Company Representative
Or try disabling the front webcam first to make sure the rear is also present in the device manager, then try again. -
Hi guys, after sending 3 times for the repair, I keep getting answer saying that tablet part has speakers on the right side only. I mean both speakers are located on the right side only. I thought in the beginning I am hearing left/right. mostly use it in notebook mode.
Manual showed it has two speakers on two sides and now new manual published and it is saying left/right both on the right side only. I know it has another 2 speakers on the keyboard.
I feel like I was tricked... how about you guys? am I missing something? -
But you are correct: Tablet(LCD top part) has 2 speakers on right side(top and bottom). Base(keyboard) also has 2 speakers, 1 left, 1 right.
Personally top speakers seem week to me, so really need extra 2 speakers in base for good sound. -
Not what i wanted to hear. But what can we do!
Gonna deal with it. Not nice to hear more sound from right side in notebook mode. -
Hello,
I guess it comes preloaded with Windows 8 x64-bit, but sometimes I need programs and apps which run tricky on 64, so I would rather try to go for the universally compatible 32-bit OS.
So has anyone tried it successfully yet. Are all the ASUS drivers and apps available for 32-Bit download for Windows 8 or should I use any 32-Bit mode if available in Windows 8 64bit for running legacy apps.
Thanks for your responses. -
I had the same problem. The first time I tried to updated it failed and I am in a dead loop of "failure configuring windows updates reverting changes". I had to re-install the system to start fresh agian.
This time, I only select some of the updates, and still most of them failed by, the reverting changes did come back.
I think there is a sequence that you will need to follow to install all those updates, I am not sure why Window Updates does not able to figure it out automatically.
So, you will need to go to Window Updates, un-check all the updates that it will download by default. Only updates one of the following 3 updates one by one:
KB2904266, KB2871777, KB2772501
It does seem to me that after having these 3 updates installed, you are then free to let Windows Updates to handle the rest of the update automatically.
cykalu likes this. -
hello please i need help !!!!!
i have the tx200ca computer but 3 days ago ,the keyboard dock stop working , all the ports on the keyboard stopped working too ,the only working part of the keyboard is the charging point , i have had this laptop for 2 months and i have not really used it because i am not always home , i have tried everything possible to try to make it work but the pad wont read the keyboard dock , and the dock dosnt read it too , i ran device diagnostics and it says everything is fine , someone help please !!! did i press a button that deactivated the keyboard dock or is a technical problem , i will be grateful if anybody can help -
hello please i need help !!!!!
i have the tx300ca computer but 3 days ago ,the keyboard dock stop working , all the ports on the keyboard stopped working too ,the only working part of the keyboard is the charging point , i have had this laptop for 2 months and i have not really used it because i am not always home , i have tried everything possible to try to make it work but the pad wont read the keyboard dock , and the dock dosnt read it too , i ran device diagnostics and it says everything is fine , someone help please !!! did i press a button that deactivated the keyboard dock or is a technical problem , i will be grateful if anybody can help -
Hello, I have a question. Today I noticed that the left side of display came out slightly from the case. Looking carefully it seems that the factory glue just didn't work well. Now, I have never opened it and hopefully I won't have to, but I wanted to ask: how exactly is the screen fixed inside the case? it's just glue or there is some screw system that I can't see? Is it ok to leave it be or doing so will cause to worsen the situation with time (considering how often I use it as a tablet) and eventually even "pop out" from inside the case?
Here is the photo:
This is instead the right side (that is still "sealed"), that is, how it should be:
Thanks everyone for answers and sorry for my poor english -
Really strange that there is so little info about this laptop. Mine stopped working 3 weeks ago, won't boot up. Is sitting at ASUS repair now for 1 week with no updates. Anybody have any recent info on this product? Was it a bad design so they quickly made a new model? Anybody upgrade wifi card to dual band? Just curious.
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Hello all,
the TX300 bought for my daughter on March 2013 stopped working last August -- it all started with repetitive boot problems, the refused to boot definitely. Since it is not under warranty anymore, I have opened the tablet. The Sandisk m100 half size mSATA 128GB SSD seems to be the problem (I have tried it in another computer without success -- it blocked the SATA controller). With Sandisk removed the tablet boots instantly and without problem.
I assume that 1 year warranty for TX300 (instead of usual 2 years here in Europe) does not come without reason. I would suggest that we will see more of SSD failures soon -- I was one of the first here to pick the TX300 at the shop. Sandisk support folks, when contacted, refused to do anything -- m100 in question is an OEM product, so all the complaints should be addressed to ASUS, period.
I feel that I am stuck in nowhere -- it is impossible to get a compareble drive here in Europe, and sending the tablet to Asus repaire service seems to be the only option, with the price being an arbitrary draw, I would suggest staying clear of this product. Or, if by chance you alredy have it, and your warranty has not expired yet, it would be a safe bet to but asus 3y. extended warranty, here in Europe it's only 60EUR, and chances are that you will need it...
Best, Ai -
Just an update about my TX300. After it totally crashed 2 weeks before warranty period ended; I sent it back to ASUS for repair. Although I am not a fan of having to go to a FedEX location to drop it off, rather than have it picked up from my home (even if I was willing to pay extra), and the drive for me to a FedEX location was an hour plus in each direction, I did that and received a repaired laptop 3 weeks later. I must say, although losing all my data, they repaired/replaced the batteries, both hard drives, installed new software, & much more. Since getting the laptop back, it has worked flawlessly. They must have "upgraded" everything to make the laptop work as it should have when it first was released. I am now pleased with it. (I would have been less than pleased should this have happened after warranty)
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Hey guys.
Currently got the Asus Transformer book TX300CA.
All was sweet, decent laptop then bang. One night no longer detects battery.
I've not been able to find any solution to this problem after a few hours searching, i would rather not have to send it away to ASUS for a fix which could possibly take who knows how long.
Kinda pointless having a laptop that has to be plugged in or it cannot be turned on.
Any assistance or theories would be greatly appreciated. -
Kevin@GenTechPC Company Representative
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How to Uninstall & Re-install the Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery
Instructions:
1.
Go to "Start", "Control Panel and click "Hardware and Sound.”
2.
Then click the "Device Manager” option.
3.
Click the “Batteries” section. A list of devices will appear in a drop down menu under the "Batteries" section.
4.
Right-click the “Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery” device and click “Uninstall.”
5. Restart the notebook to have the driver automatically re-installed.
If this troubleshooting step does not assist your battery issue please email us at [email protected] for further assistance.
Thank you. -
Problem literally appeared overnight. -
Kevin@GenTechPC Company Representative
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I am the proud owner of an ASUS TX300CA. It worked fine for the first week but now the external monitor is not recogniezed anymore. I tried the mini displayport (where it was working fine) and the micro HDMI (Tablet part) - nothing. I already reset Windows 8 - nothing. I tried to deinstall and reinstall the driver for the Intel HD Graphic 4000 - nothing. The TX is not doing anything when I connect the monitor (we have several computer in the office and tried the monitor + cable with other laptops and I tried different monitors with my TX - nothing).
Any idea or solution???
I remember I disconnected the tablet from the "dock" when the external monitor was connected, afterwards it was not working anymore.
I can only find an older BIOS on the ASUS driver download website than I am using right now, where is that about? 207 on the website and i have 208...
Thanks for any help in advance! -
here's another "funny" story...
bought t300la few days ago, as my third asus laptop,
updated from win 8 to 8.1 (that took almost half a day)
everything worked
two days after, the touchscreen stopped working..., windows cant recognize it
2 days of reinstalling windows and drivers, and other funny solutions found on the internet didn't help
guess what, no drivers for touchscreen on asus website...
decided to take it back to the shop and try my luck with the new one
fun fact, clean install of win 8.1 (downloaded form microsoft via their download program) is half in size of what the laptop originaly came with installed...
Asus Transformer Book TX300 - Owners Lounge
Discussion in 'ASUS Reviews and Owners' Lounges' started by janvandongen, Sep 21, 2013.