HP Pavilion DV9260US 17" Entertainment Notebook PC (Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T7200, 2 GB RAM, 200 GB Hard Drive, HD SuperMulti DVD Drive, Vista Ultimate)

Average customer rating: 4.0

Great Laptop but misleading advertising
Great buy for the price
Lots of features but disappointing performance and HP Support is the pits too
Simply Outstanding, better than Dell, Sony and Toshiba
One showstopper of a design problem

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HP Pavilion DV9260US 17" Entertainment Notebook PC (Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T7200, 2 GB RAM, 200 GB Hard Drive, HD SuperMulti DVD Drive, Vista Ultimate)

Manufacturer: Hewlett Packard Office
Product Group: Personal Computer
Binding: Personal Computers
ASIN: B000M9GFOE
2007-01-30

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Amazon.com Product Description

Balance your need for productivity with great multimedia performance with the HP Pavilion dv9260us notebook PC, which comes with an ExpressCard TV tuner that enables you to watch both standard NTSC and digital ATSC (HD) television broadcasts right on your laptop. It features an amazingly bright, widescreen 17-inch BrightView display--perfect for multitasking between document windows and watching movies in their native aspect ratio. This notebook also incorporates an HD DVD drive that's compatible with the new high-definition DVD disc format. Enjoy amazingly crisp and vibrantly colorful imagery from this new format. The optical drive also incorporates a dual-layer, multi-format DVD/CD burner that enables you to store up to 8.5 GB of data on a DL disc.

The dual-execution core T7200 Core 2 Duo processor provides an optimized, multi-threaded architecture for improved gaming and multi-tasking performance, and it features a 2.0 GHz speed, lightning quick 667 MHz system bus, and massive 4 MB L2 cache. Other hardware features include dual 120 GB hard drives (for a 240 GB total), 2 GB of installed RAM (maximizing capacity), an integrated Nvidia GeForce 7600 video/graphics card with 256 MB of discrete video RAM, tri-mode Wi-Fi LAN (802.11a/b/g), multi-format memory card reader, 1.3-megapixel WebCam (and integrated microphone), and an HDMI connectivity for uncompressed digital audio and video transmission to an HDTV. It also offers a cool, modern look with a durable, high-gloss piano black finish and inlaid design inspired by Zen rock gardens as well as a subtle blue backlit media control panel that responds to the slightest touch.

This laptop also comes preinstalled with Microsoft Windows Vista Home Ultimate, which includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center. In addition to easily playing your DVD movies and managing your digital audio library, you'll be able to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV). Vista also integrates new search tools throughout the operating system, includes new parental control features, and offers new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures.

The Basics
<ul>

Processor: The Intel Core 2 Duo T7200 processor has a 2.0 GHz processor speed, super-fast 667 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and an enormous 4 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance. The FSB carries data between the CPU and RAM, and a faster front-side bus will deliver better overall performance.)

The Intel Core 2 Duo processor has two computational execution cores in a single processor, providing greater system response when running multi-threaded applications simultaneously with no significant increase in power consumption. It's optimized for multitasking and is ready to support the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system. It can simultaneously run multiple demanding applications--such as graphics-intensive games or serious number-crunching business productivity applications--while downloading music or running virus-scanning security programs in the background. Some of the advanced Intel innovations of the Core 2 Duo processor include: <ul>

Smart Memory Access: Improves system performance by hiding memory latency, thus optimizing the use of available computer data bandwidth to provide data to the processor when and where it is needed.

Advanced Digital Media Boost: Effectively doubles the execution speed for instructions used widely in multimedia and graphics applications.

Dynamic Power Coordination: Coordinates Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology and idle power-management state (C-states) transitions independently per core to help save power.

Deeper Sleep with Dynamic Cache Sizing: Saves power by flushing cache data to system memory during periods of inactivity to lower CPU voltage.</ul>

Hard Drive: You'll be able to store large libraries of digital audio, video, and photos on the dual 120 GB Serial ATA hard drives (5400 RPM). The 240 GB of total storage offers enough to room to hold a digital audio library of over 26,000 songs and still have room left over for movies, games, and a large collection of software. These SATA hard drive also quicken the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to FireWire and USB 2.0.

Memory: The 2 GB of built-in memory maximizes the capacity of this notebook, which is par for the course for multimedia-centric laptops (though small in comparison to multimedia-oriented desktops). But you'll be able to handle immersive 3-D video games, video editing, graphics-intensive presentations, and multiple open business productivity applications right out of the box.

DVD/CD Drive: This HP notebook offers the next generation of DVD entertainment with the HD DVD ROM optical drive, which provides the superior image and sound quality of high-definition images and multichannel surround sound as well as backward compatibility with standard DVD movie discs as well as content burned onto DVD-R/RW, DVD-RAM. It also incorporates a multi-format DVD/CD burner, which is compatible with dual-layer (DL) discs that can hold up to 8.5 GB of data.

Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has a 101-key keyboard and a touchpad with on/off button and dedicated vertical/horizontal Scroll Up/Down pad. It also includes two quick-launch buttons (HP QuickPlay Music and DVD). </ul> Screen, Video & Audio
The 17-inch WXGA+ high-definition BrightView widescreen (1440 x 900 resolution) provides a 45 percent larger picture for DVD movies than a 15-inch screen. Video is powered by the Nvidia GeForce 7600 graphics card, which was chosen by PC World magazine as one of the 100 Best Products of 2006 (July, 2006). It has 256 MB of video RAM. It features Nvidia's PureVideo technology--which provides great picture clarity, smooth video, accurate color, and precise image scaling for video content. It also offers full support for Microsoft DirectX 9.0 Shader Model 3.0 and true high dynamic-range (HDR) lighting. And it's ready for the next step in graphics processing--SLI technology (Scalable Link Interface)--which delivers twice the performance of a single GPU configuration by allowing two graphics cards to run in parallel.

Networking, Connectivity & Expansion
The Intel PRO wireless LAN 3945ABG provides a tri-mode network connection (supporting 802.11a/b/g), with throughput up to 54 Mbps at 5 GHz (802.11a) and 2.4 GHz (802.11g). It also includes a next-generation ExpressCard 54/34 card slot (replacing the PCMCIA slot), which lets you take advantage of thinner, faster, and lighter expansion cards for even more advanced wireless, networking, storage, and security features. You get a very good offering of connectivity options, which does include super-fast USB 2.0 and FireWire: <ul>

4 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players

1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals

1 HDMI output (for connecting to a compatible HDTV or home theater receiver for uncompressed digital audio and video)

1 VGA monitor port

1 S-Video port for connecting to a TV

1 ExpressCard/54 Slot (also supports ExpressCard/34)

1 headphone jack with SPDIF digital audio capability

1 microphone jack

1 Expansion Port 3 connector (for use with the HP xb3000 Expansion Base or the HP Notebook QuickDock)

1 IR receiver

5-in-1 memory card reader (Secure Digital, MMC, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, xD Picture Card) </ul> It also has an integrated 56K modem (V.90) and an RJ-45 LAN network port (for a 10/100 Ethernet connection to networks and DSL/cable modems).

Operating System
Windows Vista Home Ultimate is the operating system for users with advanced computer needs, and it includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center for watching DVD movies and accessing your digital audio library. You can also use Windows Media Center to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV) and to access new kinds of online entertainment content. Computers that include Windows Vista Home Ultimate and an auxiliary Windows SideShow display will also allow you to access key data even when your computer is off. It is also easier than ever to share files between other PCs in your household and to manage your laptop computer settings to more securely connect to your favorite Wi-Fi hotspot.

Every edition of Windows Vista provides the essential tools and technologies to help protect you whether you are browsing the Internet, connecting to a wireless network, or just reading e-mail. All editions of Windows Vista include new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures long before you have lost any important personal data. And, all Windows Vista editions include parental control features that allow you to manage and monitor your family's use of games, the Internet, instant messaging, and other activities.

Preloaded Software
Includes Microsoft Works, Microsoft Office 2007 Student and Teacher Edition (60-day trial), Muvee autoProducer DVD Edition, Sonic Digital Media Plus, HP PhotoSmart Premier, PC Recovery, and Symantec Norton Internet Security 2007 (with 60 days of Live Update).

Dimensions & Weight
This notebook measures 15.16 x 11.65 x 1.57 inches (WxHxD) and weighs 7.8 pounds.

Power
It's powered by a 8-cell rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which has a battery life of up to 2.5 hours (depending on usage).

What's in the Box
This package contains the HP Pavilion dv9260us notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, IR remote control, earphones, and operating instructions. It is backed by a limited warranty for parts and labor for one year from date of purchase as well as technical telephone assistance for one year. Software is also covered for 30 days from date of purchase.

Product Description

Intel Centrino Duo / Core 2 Duo T7200 / 17.0-inch WXGA Widescreen / 240GB SATA Hard Drive / 2GB DDR2 2-DIMM Memory / Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit 2048MB DDR2 System Memory (2 Dimm) 2 Accessible Memory Slots NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600 (discrete 256MB) Video Graphics 240GB (5400RPM) Hard Drive Dual HDD - 120GB x 2 (SATA) HP Imprint Finish & HP Pavilion WebCam with Integrated Microphone HD DVD ROM with SuperMulti DVD+-R/RW Double Layer Multimedia Drive 17.0-inch WXGA+ High-Definition BrightView Widescreen Display (1440 x 900) Integrated 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN (RJ-45 connector) Network Card Intel PRO/Wireless 3945ABG Network Connection & Bluetooth 5-in-1 integrated Digital Media Reader for Secure Digital cards, MultiMedia cards, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, or xD Picture cards High-speed 56k Fax/Modem Altec Lansing Audio Notebook keyboard with scroll bar and integrated numeric keypad 2 Quick Launch Buttons-HP Quick Play Music and DVD Touch Pad Pointing Device with On/Off button and dedicated vertical scroll Up/Down pad 1 ExpressCard/54 PC Card Slot (also supports ExpressCard/34) External Notebook Ports - 4 Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0, 1 Headphone out w/SPDIF Digital Audio, 1 microphone-in, 1 HDMI, 1 VGA (15-pin), 1 TV-Out (S-video), 1 RJ-11 (modem), 1 RJ -45 (LAN), 1 Expansion Port 3, 1 IEEE 1394 Firewire (4-pin), 1 Consumer IR (Remote Receiver) Power - 90W AC Adapter and 8-Cell Lithium-Ion battery Operating System - Genuine Windows Vista Ultimate Security and Support - Kensington MicroSaver lock slot, Power-on password and Accepts 3rd party security lock devices Symantec Norton Internet Security 2007 (including 60 days complimentary live update) PC Recovery (Softthinks Restore Solution) Wireless Home Network Productivity and Finance - Microsoft Works and 60-Day Trial Version Microsoft Office 2007 Student and Teacher Edition Dimensions - Length 15.16 x W

Customer Reviews:

Great Laptop but misleading advertising.......2007-05-24

Overall I have been very impressed with the performance of the laptop to this point. Vista Ultimate has worked flawlessly and setup of the tv tuner and media center options was very straight forward. I haven't yet put it through all of the paces but to this point I think it is going to be more than adequate for my family's personal use.

My only complaint is with this line in the Amazon.com description -
"1 HDMI output (for connecting to a compatible HDTV or home theater receiver for uncompressed digital audio and video)"

This is misleading in that the HDMI does not output audio but video only. I did not learn about this until I tried to output HD from the laptop to my Sharp Aquos HDTV. Then I had to search HP's website and do some additional online research to find the answer. I e-mailed Amazon customer service to let them know about the inaccuracy and basically was told - "However, I suggest that you check with the company personnel once if your HDTV is compatible one or if you are unable to connect the
right way."

This response doesn't even make sense. They did include HP's support information so I assume they mean that it is HP's problem. I really just wish they would update the description to be more accurate.

Great buy for the price.......2007-05-07

I am very happy with this notebook from HP. Not a notebook that you can travel around but as a desktop replacement it can't be beat. It is my first desktop replacement notebook and it came with lots of accessories for the price I paid.

Lots of features but disappointing performance and HP Support is the pits too.......2007-04-26

I really like the features of this new notebook (which I purchased here on Amazon for a great price.)

The biggest problem is Vista and the fact that there is little 64 bit support out there. It's now nearly May of 2007 and I still can't use my NEW HP printer (NO Vista driver for the Laserjet 2600n) No Driver for my Scanner (Pentax 600) and I can't even use Microsoft's own OneCare software that I purchased last year. I thought it would be bad but I thought i'd at least be able to print on a NEW printer. The Vista Advisor also told me the printer was supported.

Further, the notebook is extremely slow after using it for two months now. I'm not able to burn anything to the CD Burner (try contacting HP Support in India - had several VERY frustrating calls to support (where their focus is to UPSELL me on additional warranty and a "Great Deal" on office 2007 - HP India support is a total and complete joke) Another example, is the Docking station that can be ordered with this also failed and i've been waiting two months and still no replacement. (The last call they told me my support contract on that was up - I told them I never got the replacement I needed the week after receiving the defective unit. Typical for HP Support.

Performance isn't great either - after a few months and installing all the "built in" security software the thing runs very slow. This could be the new Vista indexing but its very frustrating doing simple things - like typing an email into Outlook (or any software for that matter) - very often the cursor just HANGS as some background process takes over the machine. Additionally, it takes over 2 minutes to boot up "completely". I say that becuase Vista has to load a ton of extra software like the side bar, etc. Oh, and try to work and open the Media Center to watch TV - you can forget about trying to actually use Word or some other software at the same time. So Not sure if its bad design or just Vista being a hog.

The notebook also NEVER remembers my dual monitor settings and have to reset it after each and every reboot (And I'm up to date with a new driver that came out last week - go figure)

So bottom line is you get what you pay for, I guess Great price = absolutely terrible HP support + sub-par performance.

This will be my last HP purchase - I made a big mistake shopping solely on price and features. The problem is I don't know of any other PC manufacturers that really do have good support.

Simply Outstanding, better than Dell, Sony and Toshiba.......2007-03-17

I am an avid programmer with multimedia and HD frenesis. I don't want to go into tech specs as this site pretty much covers them all but I am pretty sure this is the best laptop out there, for sure!...
I use it to do heavy duty programming and database design and at nights I plug it to my Home Theater and Widescreen HDProjector and I i have a better setting than a Cinema, with true HD and DTS sound.. Worth every penny.. and will last long!.. It's not as limited as a Dell, as fragile as a sony nor does it warm up as a toshiba (and I've had them all).. It's simply an incredible piece of machinery. Get it now! The screen is amazing, the connectivity is astounding and the features (including vista) are well worth it. Finally a company that delivers what it promises. And online support was fabulous... Go for it!

One showstopper of a design problem.......2007-03-13

I bought a DV9260us at Fry's, and was generally pleased with my purchase, except for one physically small issue that turned out to be such a big deal for me that I returned the laptop: the right shift key.

The right shift key is half-sized, like the size of any letter key. I could get used to that, but it's located right next to the up arrow key. I kept missing the shift key, hitting the arrow key (at the same time as a left-side letter key)and erasing everything I had written above.

In Word or Outlook, that's irritating, but easily remedied by just doing an Undo. But in blog posts or other web-based text boxes where undo isn't an option, the text is goners. Much of my writing these days is in such medium, and it's annoying to have to write what I want somewhere else, like an Outlook email, and then copy/paste it into the text box.

The problem, I've read, is that 10-key number pad on the right side so compresses the QWERTY keys that the right shift key has to be small. But, the real culprits are the arrow keys. To keep the upside-down T formation the Up Arrow key has to be right above the Down Arrow key. It appears that all HP has to do is make a sideways L, and move the Up Arrow key to the right just above the Right Arrow key. There's even a blank space for Up Arrow key just to the right of its current location.

So, I returned this laptop and instead have ordered a HP dv6000t. It has a wider right shift key and almost the same configuration as the dv9260us, with the biggest exceptions -- in my custom configuration -- being a 200 gig hard drive instead of a 240 and the narrower 15.4" screen.

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