Is it 'legal' for Ensemble models to be sold customized?

Hi--

I'm a little confused... I am an ASUS newbie, and while I've read the FAQ and searched through this forum, I can't quite figure out whether it is cool/supported to buy an Ensemble notebook from a ASUS reseller, if that notebook is being offered with customizable options (CPU, 7200 rpm drive, etc).

Basically, I am seriously considering a V6J (only other contender would be forthcoming Fujitsu S6000 Napa refresh). I see that most of the well-known retailers (proportable, tiger, geared4play, etc) appear to allow no customization of this model, as it is an Ensemble. However, agear.com does allow you to buy a V6J and upgrade the various components. I find the option to upgrade to a 7200 rpm drive to be particularly interesting, as it is my understanding that there is almost no heat/power cost to such a change.

The whole ASUS ecosystem is a bit confusing to me, and I'm having a hard time understanding how I would be protected should anything go wrong. I know there is an automatic 1 year warranty from ASUS on "built-on" models, and a 1 year warranty on normal Ensemble models, but I'm guessing that there may be neither on a modified Ensemble model. agear.com provides their own warranty program, but how to know whether they will be around in 2-3 years, etc etc.

Perhaps like some other people, I believe I want to buy an ASUS, but I guess the idea of buying from a "mom-and-pop" (no offense intended) that is nowhere near me is a bit unfamiliar, and I'm not sure how the actual manufacturer (to whatever extent the term applies in this context) is legally involved.

Thanks!

nate

 

It's not illegal, but I guess not really recommended neither.

If you just want to upgrade the HD or RAM, it would be better to just buy the V6j and buy the HD/RAM aftermarket, and install it yourself. Then remember to switch them back if it ever needs to be sent back.

 

One alternative that you can consider is to purchase an Asus model that comes with a hot-swappable bay (I do not know whether the V6J includes this... you can ask/check around). If you purchase a model with such a bay, you could hot-swap in/out your 7200rpm hard drive [with the use of the drive cage], and thus not worry about modding your laptop.

 

If you are willing to buy a "built on" model from a reseller, they provide the warranty...right? What's the difference if the same retailer would customize an ensemble model... same deal.

I've been reading this site for almost a year in my quest for my first notebook. I've read plenty of good info. Anyway,

If Ivan at Portable One can sell an MX and cover it, what's the difference if he did it with a W3J. He's still the guy.

 

There's nothing illegal about it....... Asus just won't support it anymore.. it becomes the product of the customizer and their problem to support..