
|
 |
|
HP Pavilion DV6605US 15.4-inch Entertainment Laptop (AMD Athlon 64 Processor TK-55, 1 GB RAM, 160 GB Hard Drive, Vista Premium)x$699.99
    (38 reviews)
Best Price: $969.00 $699.99
Designed for fast access to your entire entertainment library, the HP Pavilion dv6605us notebook PC is a great choice for both families and business travelers on the go. The 15.4-inch high-definition BrightView display looks good even in direct sunlight, and you'll enjoy movies or music in seconds with the external DVD or music buttons to launch HP QuickPlay (which bypasses the boot process). Control playback settings from up to 10 feet away with the included HP remote, then store it conveniently in the Express card slot. Easily manage your digital photo library and share with friends and family using the included HP Photosmart Premier software. This stylish laptop also features a high-gloss, durable HP Imprint finish with an inlaid wave design. It's powered by the 64-bit 1.8 GHz AMD Athlon 64 X2 TK-55 processor, which allows you to easily run multiple programs without slowing down your productivity. This notebook also features a 160 GB hard drive, 1 GB of installed RAM (4 GB maximum), built-in 54g Wi-Fi connectivity (802.11b/g), 8x multi-format/dual-layer DVD+/-RW drive (which also burns CDs), ExpressCard slot, and NVIDIA GeForce Go 7150 video/graphics card with up to 287 MB of shared video memory. It comes preinstalled with Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium, 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 - Processor: The 1.8 GHz AMD Athlon 64 X2 TK-55 processor offers a dual-core architecture, which delivers additional computing resources to help expand your PC's capabilities by providing higher throughput and simultaneous computing--increasing your performance by up to 80 percent. You'll be able to perform multiple tasks such as digital rendering and gaming all while running virus scan or other background tasks seamlessly thanks to the innovative Direct Connect Architecture. And it's designed to handle simultaneous 32- and 64-bit computing with no degradation in performance. You'll enjoy long battery life thanks to the AMD PowerNow! power management technology, which delivers performance on demand and can extend system battery life up to 65 percent. And the AMD Digital Media XPress technology delivers stellar multimedia performance and playback on digital entertainment such as games, streaming video and audio, DVDs, and music.
Each processing core has a 256 KB L2 cache (for a 512 KB total), and this processor can deliver up to a 1600 MHz system bus for lightning quick computing reflexes. (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.) - Hard Drive: The 160 GB hard drive (5400 RPM) 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. This Serial ATA (SATA) hard drive also quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to FireWire and USB 2.0.
- Memory: The 1 GB of installed RAM (2 x 512 MB DDR2) is a good start, but you'll want to add more RAM to handle today's demanding multimedia and productivity suites. It provides two DIMM slots and has a 4 GB maximum RAM capacity. To receive the faster data transfer benefits of the dual-channel DDR2 RAM, any RAM additions require memory modules of same capacity and clockspeed.
- DVD/CD Drive: This multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with writing both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer (DL) DVD+/-R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. It features 4x DVD-R DL Write Once, 2.4x DVD+R DL Write Once, 8x DVD+R, 4x DVD+RW, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD-RW, 16x DVD-ROM, 40x CD-R, 24x CD-RW, and 40x CD-ROM speeds.
This LightScribe DVD+/-RW drive lets you laser-etch silkscreen quality text and images on to CDs and DVDs . Your software, PC and discs work together for a no-hassle way to burn just the labels you want. After you burn content, just flip the disc over, reinsert and burn your label--anything from a simple title to a full-disc work of art. - 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).
Screen, Video & Audio You'll enjoy razor-sharp graphics and widescreen movies with the 15.4-inch WXGA high-definition screen, which displays an 18 percent larger picture than standard 15-inch screens and offers up to an 18 percent improvement in contrast ratio. It has a widescreen resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels--perfect for watching DVD movies the way they were meant to be seen. Video is powered by the integrated NVidia GeForce Go 7150 graphics/video card, which provides up to 287 MB of video memory shared with the system memory. It features NVidia's PureVideo technology--which provides great picture clarity, smooth video, accurate color, and precise image scaling for video content--and full support for Microsoft DirectX 9.0 for stunningly realistic cinematic effects for all DirectX-compatible applications. The Altec Lansing speakers provide exceptional sound, and a pair of stereo earbud headphones with volume controls is included. You'll be able to privately share enjoyment of multimedia with a friend via the dual headphone jacks. Networking, Connectivity & Expansion This notebook has an integrated 54g wireless LAN that's fully compatible with 802.11b/g wireless networks. It also includes a next-generation ExpressCard 54/34 card slot (though no standard 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 good offering of connectivity options: - 3 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 VGA monitor port
- 1 S-Video port for connecting to a TV
- 1 ExpressCard 54/34
- 2 headphone jacks and 1 microphone jack
- 1 notebook expansion port 3 (for use with the HP xb3000 Expansion Base or the HP Notebook QuickDock)
- 1 consumer IR (infrared)
- 5-in-1 memory card reader (Secure Digital, MultiMedia, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, xD Picture Card)
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 Premium 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 Premium 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 via Wi-Fi. 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 Basic Edition, Roxio Creator 9 Basic, PC Recovery, HP PhotoSmart Essentials, and Symantec Norton Internet Security 2007 (with 60 days of Live Update). Dimensions & Weight This notebook measures 14.05 x 10.12 x 1.69 inches (WxHxD) and weighs 6.14 pounds. Power This notebook is powered by a 6-cell rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which offers up to 2 hours of battery life (dependent upon computing conditions). What's in the Box This package contains the HP Pavilion dv6605us 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.
UPC: 883585486502
|
Customer Reviews
|
Sleek powerhouse with so many attributes it will make your (non-gamer) head spin      By A8X1PXFKP2HWH on 2007-12-19
**THIS REVIEW IS FOR THE HP DV2660SE, not the 2662se, but they have almost identical specs and there was no space for the 2660se. Many of the same comments are relevant to both.**
I am not a gamer, so I ignore features that are solely relevant to gaming. This laptop has many positive qualities to recommend it. I have two older model HP laptops from pre-2005 and had decided that I needed a personal laptop, so that I wouldn't have to keep lugging my work laptop, a Dell Latitude D620, home from work with me. (I use my laptop as a desktop replacement.) I was very skeptical about buying an HP: both of my previous HPs from pre-2005 died within a year. Both were slow, clunky machines that didn't work conveniently from the beginning.
I was stunned to discover this machine on sale for $899 at Best Buy. The Geek Squad employee spent 2 hours (!) answering my questions, reading positive and negative reviews of this PC with me online, and discussing the pros and cons of this laptop. He said that HP has improved dramatically in the past 2 years to become one of the top notebook PC makers. In fact, he said that some of the longest-lasting laptops with the fewest problems are from HP.
When I got on the test model in the store, I was impressed by just about everything- since I am not a gamer and my only need in a graphics card is a machine that allows me to do digital video editing. It has decent specs for that, which is all I need.
What I love:
It is LIGHT, even more easy to carry around than my work laptop, which I take with me everywhere.
This laptop manages to be sleek, thin, and gorgeously designed (which is a feature about which I didn't even care, but it does make a difference to look at something beautiful while you work), while being fully functional and feeling sturdier and more rugged than other 14" laptops I have played with.
It comes with a 12 cell battery that is supposed to last for up to 9 hours- I haven't tested it for that long yet, but I played on it all night on the battery and was pleased that the screen works well even on battery power.
Some reviewers don't like the fact that the laptop battery sticks out of the bottom of the machine. However, this has the (perhaps unintentional) benefit of giving the laptop a healthy tilt when it is on a flat surface. This tilt is a built-in mechanism that ensures ample space beneath the laptop to avoid blocking the fans. Since one major cause of premature laptop death is overheating, the fact that this laptop runs cool and has a built-in laptop-cooling tilt is a selling point for me. It also puts the laptop at an angle that I (being a guy with small hands) find far more comfortable than working on a flat surface.
I love the keyboard, which is just right for small hands (roughly the same size as the average woman's hands). Some reviewers complained about the keyboard- if you have large hands, you should use an external keyboard, but it is far more comfortable typing on this machine for those of us with smaller hands. I was on this computer for seven hours last night and found my hands pain-free, which doesn't happen when I use larger keyboards.
The speakers work well for me as a music aficionado- again, gamers won't be satisfied but that's why people buy external speakers.
The screen and internal speakers deliver crisp, clear quality for home viewing of DVDs and listening to CDs.
Having read many negative reviews of Vista, I was delighted to encounter this extremely user-friendly OS. Vista Home Premium, the OS on this laptop, runs very smoothly at fast speeds on this PC. It took under 10 minutes for me to go from taking this out of the box to being online on my web site, though this may be quicker than what some others describe. After initial set-up, I am able to go from totally shut off computer to being on the web in under 5 minutes, which is better than average for most PCs. It might be around 3 minutes. Yes, you will have to play around to learn the new OS, but it doesn't take long and everybody seems to forget that people hated Windows XP when it first came out, too.
The Intel Core2Duo processor says it's only 1.5 GHz speed, but don't let that fool you. Only a gamer will notice the difference between this and the Santa Rosa procesor. For even the intensive non-gaming, all-purpose user, fast is fast, and this processor socks it to you like lightning.
I was impressed by how little bloatware came on this PC, given its low price. I uninstalled only 3 pre-loaded programs: HP Games, muvee autoProducer, and one other program that I don't plan to use. As with all laptops, I recommend removing any unwanted programs, installing antivirus and antispyware software yourself (if you work at a college or large business, your company/university may have free downoads like mine does), and defragmenting the disk to optimise (yes, I use British spelling) performance. You really don't need to buy the Geek Squad install unless you have never had a laptop. Also, make your own restore CDs using the self-explanatory "make restore CD" command (just read your manual) without paying a Geek to do it for you. Laptops no longer come with restore CDs on standard issue, but don't waste money buying one from HP or BB. Just make sure you select "include drivers" when you make the disk.
Speaking of manuals, they have lost about 100 pages since I last got a laptop manual. You will have to google or read your box for some details- not a reason to avoid buying this laptop, just something that is true of most laptops nowadays.
The very generous 250 GB HHD is not the latest solid state drive (SSD), but most laptops have components that are weaker than the SSD anyway, so it doesn't matter if your hard drive is virtually indestructible if the rest of your machine isn't. Wait a year or two for the price of SSDs ($500+ for 32GB SSD, not including any other laptop parts) to drop and the GB size to rival HHD options before you consider making the switch.
2GB of built-in DDR2 ram/667MHz at 5400 rpms is excellent for all but those demanding gamers who want 7200 rpms. Not necessary- even demanding home users who don't do gaming won't notice the minimal appreciable difference.
The webcam works far better than I expected in a laptop. It's not Hollywood quality, but again, buy an expensive external webcam if you want that. It worked very well for video conferencing in yahoo messenger. My only complaint was that movements were a bit slow, but that might be my fault for not configuring the specs properly.
I was worried that a 14" screen would be too small, but it is designed to provide satisfying video entertainment and the screen gives me as much quality as a 15.4" screen.
Port and external hardware slots are very well-designed. There are two side-by-side USB ports on the right between the DVD player- dual layer, writes DVDs and CDs, and has lightscribe- and the LED-lid power cord plug. This avoids some of the fumbling caused by having two USB ports on top of each other. Having the 2 (!) headphone jacks (in addition to the separate microphone jack) in front is very helpful. There is an additional USB port on the left side, in addition to an ExpressCard/54 PC card slot, Expansion Port 3, 5-in-1 digital media reader, etc.
The design is stunning and does make a difference to any user with aesthetic sensitivities- I found myself gazing happily at the designs in between video creations.
This computer also comes with a Roxio package and I found QuickPlay a helpful little program.
It comes with trial norton antivirus and trial windows office 2007. I downloaded Symantec antivirus and Spybot Search and Destroy from work, as well as the full package of Windows office 2003 programs from my work. (Office 2007 is incompatible with Adobe Acrobat Professional, which I need in case I'm working from home.)
The a/b/g wireless picked up 3 times more networks than my wireless work laptop. When the new 802.11 n standard is approved, possibly as early as February, most a/b/g laptop owners will be able to download an upgrade online from HP, so the current draft n on some laptops isn't worth it until the specs of actual n are decided.
Does this have built-in Bluetooth? Since this is a feature I don't use, you might want to check on that. I think so, but find out for yourself.
No built-in TV tuner, but most of us either watch on the NBC/ABC/CBS innertube web site OR have an actual tv. You can always buy a TV tuner, no big deal.
I really don't care about HDTV capacity, as the HD "revolution" has failed to take off the same way that Blu-Ray disk (which I am not sure is supported by this computer- probably not, but check for yourself) has utterly failed at replacing the DVD and CD mediums.
All in all, this is a brilliant little powerhouse that feels like a MacBook without the high price tag. Unless you are a gamer playing games that demand the most competitive specs in existence (Santa Rosa processor, NVIDIA 8100 graphics card with 512+ dedicated VRAM, 7200 rpms, harmon kardon speakers with internal subwoofer- *eyeroll*- none of which this laptop offers), there is no task that this beautiful, sturdy, and lightning fast computer can't handle.
This is an impressive deal- even a steal for the quality. While extended warranties are often rip-off attempts, if you add total accidental damange protection with next-day onsite service for up to 4 years from purchase date, you are ensuring that you will have a functional computer or its replacement for a total of 4 years, making your annual cost under $250 for this machine. The investment is well worth it.
Run, don't walk. Catch this baby while you still can.
Great laptop ONLY for MS Windows      By A1UMEOND7NDZP3 on 2007-11-09
This is a great laptop, but only if you are going to use it on windows operative systems. If you are planning(like I was) to install some other SO like LINUX, do not buy this laptop. All distributions I've tried didn't recognize the hardware(Wireless, Videocard, etc).
Also, HP do not provide drivers for windows XP, So you are stuck with windows vista, and everybody knows that is not a good thing, and if for some reason you formatted the hard drive and deleted the recovery image, You are in troubles because HP do not provide restore CD anymore. You have to buy one from them (U$s 15).
The overall performance for this laptop is good, even with windows vista. It came whit a great amount of RAM/Disk space for the price.
Hopefully in some time the hardware will be compatible with some linux distos...
It's alright...      By A2NLL1AH4JWW86 on 2007-10-05
Potentially a good computer if it didn't had Vista Ultimate 64-Bit! I found out most applications and more importantly my iPhone wasn't compatible with the pre-installed 64-bit version of Vista Ultimate. Recommend buying the Vista Home Premium 32-bit separately and download the drivers at the HP web site so that you can transfer your XP applications over to Vista. Tried doing a fresh reinstall with the recovery discs it came with to see if I had the option to install the 32-bit or just install the OS without the junk software but that's not possible. You're stuck with the unnecessary junk they installed for you unless you manually uninstall them or like I said buying Vista Home Premium 32-bit separately. The built-in web cam and microphone is nice and the sleek shiny casing will turn heads. The fingerprint reader is buggy. The audio jacks are awkwardly positioned up front so if you're using this as a desktop replacement and you're trying to connect external speakers it will be hard to hide the audio jack that's being plugged in. The 4GB of RAM is plenty but the hard drive is at 5400RPMS. If hard drive speed isn't a factor for you then you won't notice it. Wireless A/G/N receiver is very strong and fast. Lastly, be careful when you close the laptop. The monitor just snaps down like a spring loaded flip cellphone. Laptop will be great in the future when most applications and peripherals will adopt the 64-bit OS.
Great Laptop      By A36MQY2HNRIA2W on 2007-10-08
This is my first Laptop and it's a fantastic one.
My 3 year old desktop was dragging along slowly and it's nice to feel back in the fast lane with some fast multi-tasking.
The case has a cool special edition look, but the important stuff is in the specs. I checked out a bunch of laptops before choosing this one and this one had the perfect balance of everything I was looking for:
2 GB RAM
5400 rpm hard drive (most had 4200)
Huge 250 hard drive
12 cell longer life batter (why does spec above say "6 cell"?)
I originally was looking for an Intel, so the AMD processor was the only thing I compromised on - and so far, so good.
Linking up to my also-new wireless router at home was a snap.
I haven't tested the battery life as yet.
My only disappointment has nothing to do with this HP - it was realizing some of my XP programs are not compatible with Vista and I don't feel like spending a couple hundred bucks at the moment on newer versions so I'll be using my ol' HP desktop for those programs. I know I will wind up upgrading since I love this laptop.
great deal for its specs      By A36UG4M190RAAE on 2007-11-04
Having been a long time HP user, I researched other laptop brands but was lured right back in with (initially) this dv6660se's sleek appearance. The powerbook-esque keyboard and subtle design patterns on the glossy packaging is a joy to look at everyday. Easy to use, and even the built in software isn't as useless as stock programs usually are.
PROS: design, 2GB RAM, 250GB, Vista home premium (mine was 32-bit unlike above comment).
-Comes with 12-cell battery which is bulky but lasts at least 4 hours watching movies and listening to music. The battery also raises the laptop off the table, which helps with cooling.
-Roxio software for CD/DVD burning is sufficient, and its LightScribe software is easy to use.
-I wasn't too impressed with the LightScribe function as it prints light-medium gray text/images onto the CD - a little too light for my taste. But the technology is supposed to replace chemical damage your CDs would otherwise get from stickers and writing.
-I thought 14 inches would suffice, but 15.4 inches really make a difference in organizing my desktop and music folders, navigating through Excel spreadsheets, and obviously watching movies.
CONS: no bluetooth (I didn't think I'd need it but found it would've been helpful for a wireless mouse or keyboard, etc), and a little heavy for everyday portability. Although Home Premium is equipped for TV recording, you need to buy a separate TV tuner for that to happen.
OVERALL: GREAT product for its price, especially if you can find it on sale like I did. It is in no way a high end laptop but pretty darn good for everyday use. On a scale of 1-10, 1 being a lay user and 10 being very tech savvy, this would be perfect for up to 8.5
- Buyer beware of HP Customer Service
     By AZW3FF5GNKDDF on 2008-01-02
I returned my laptop to HP for repair when it wouldn't charge or hold a charge. I was informed by HP that the faulty charger was NOT covered by warranty and the fault was considered "accidental damage" ... HP offered to replace the "accidental damage" faulty charger for $315.88. I was both surprised and upset to find out that the HP external charger that was purchased with the HP laptop was not under warranty. HP is replacing the battery (under warranty) but NOT the charger??
- A review for the Linux user
     By A38WZ3WVV7LCNN on 2007-12-13
I'm one of those people who happened to like any Linux distro over the terrible MS vista, but to be fair this laptop is so powerful that you can barely feel the effects of the slowest OS out there (Windows Vista), I have being a Linux user since the Vista came out and for the most part is being a bumpy but fun ride, I agree Linux isn't for anyone but with some knowledge I can almost guarantee you will manage to make it work just fine.
Sadly there's not any tech support from any manufacturer to downgrade to windows XP even though is perfectly possible with any modern laptop once you have the right drivers of course.
Install Ubuntu or any Linux distro in this AMD 64 base laptop can be difficult because some hardware compatibility and also because Linux basically was made for Intel, so you will have some problems when trying to run the live CD or installing.
But since I try Linux I learn that open source provide the ability to make things happen and Ubuntu is no different, after some research this guide was the answer to all my prays, I and download the alternate CD for AMD 64 after that you just have to follow the text base installer.
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=512059
I'm now using Ubuntu 7.10 gusty and and MS Vista on a dual boot (Ubuntu as the default OS) I also have Windows XP in the innotek VirtualBox which is a program that run a full OS inside Ubuntu's OS, that program gives you the ability of having Windows without having to reboot, now you can find tons of programs like this that help you switch OS without too much trauma, Crossover is a program that let you install and run MS Windows programs and application's on Linux.
I also experience some of the spontaneous reboots that other users have say, I dont know exactly why but the laptop works great on Linux so it must be software or driver related to Windows.
The ricoch media card reader don't work properly with Sony's memory stick (I haven't try with any other type of memory card yet).
The overall design is very good, so is the location o the USB ports, the microphone and headphones not so much (because they are in the front) the cool white finish top and the blue lighted buttons will make heads turn anywhere, webcam is also good I just wish that it can be moved separate from the monitor top cover.
In my opinion this is a good purchase for the specs I choose this laptop over a similar more expensive but less powerful Intel base processor laptop.
Battery life is awesome, 12 cells make a big difference comparing to the 6 cells battery, I now get about 3 to 4 hours on balance power.
I recommended to all Linux users to download the alternate CD for AMD 64 after that go ahead and follow the guide.
- the notebook I received is not the same I chose in my order.
     By A1KHKT4IVQ9XY6 on 2007-12-16
Good evening, the notebook I received is not the same I chose in my order. The processor is Intel Centrino Duo but I ordered Intel Core 2 Duo Processor as the order shows. Besides the photo I cheked is different from the computer I received. The actual photo is another.
- Christmas Present
     By A21JN10LHFV5MP on 2008-01-10
I received this laptop as a christmas present from my family. (needless to say i was ecstatic). Being a gamer i was a little bummed that it was a vista operating system. I thought it would be a good idea just to load an old XP prof. cd on it... BAD IDEA!
Microsoft and HP created a laptop that doesn't support XP very well. It took us a few days to search down drivers that would work (and by work i mean... barely function at times.) Anyway so after a few days of frustratingly fighting with the wireless card, reinstalling various sound drivers, and all around annoyance with HP and Microsoft i caved and called for a vista recovery disk ($28 buck with "next day" shipping...)After a trying experience with an outsourced call center where my CSRep. had me repeat everything i said 5 times... i now expect the cd(s) to arrive in 4 days...
I'm disappointed about with the OS, but other then that I'm very pleased with all the features on this laptop. If you don't mind Vista I'd probably recommend this notebook to you.
(seriously don't try to downgrade to xp with this machine. You'll only get your heart broken)
- Returned it - Touchpad didn't work properly
     By A3BZ6W2CWSUV69 on 2008-01-11
Well, I probably would have liked this laptop but the Synaptics touchpad didn't work properly. I couldn't turn off tapping or configure it. I installed several new drivers, reviewed user messages on the HP forum, called tech support and ended up returning it and getting a refund. I'm going to buy a Toshiba Tecra instead.
Also, the HP support message board on their web site is absolutely awful. I've never seen such a poor message board (down a lot, posted messages disappear, search is awful) and lack of vendor participation to help solve problems.
- dv6675us - Great machine for the price
     By A258J3XCZT3OJE on 2008-01-08
I bought this notebook on black friday of 2007. I paid $1499 for it, and given that it was delivered to California, no sales tax was involved, so that was a major plus right there.
The good:
*It's got a great design and it is very sleek and nice-looking
*I like the fact that it came with the webcam, speakers, mic, wireless, bluetooth, a good video card, a decent processor, 250 GB HDD, and the bonus - 4 GB of RAM!!! I also chose this because Intel processors do not seem to have the same problem as Athlon ones with the wireless dying after a few months of use.
*It is very fast and will give you a run for your money.
*Great for multi-tasking
*Fast to power on, at least compared to my old machine
*The webcam quality is -superb- for a built-in cam.
The bad:
*In order for the 4 GB to be put to use, you have to have Win Vista Ultimate... Which stinks. There are very few programs that can be used with Windows Vista, even now over a year after it's launch, and on top of that, this is a 64-bit version, so it reduces the options even more.
I guess my complaint is not with the machine, but with HP's decision to embrace Win Vista so fully and with such speed, because now HP users are being turned into beta-testers for the great-looking but poor-performing Win Vista.
*Power connector tends to be a little on the flimsy side, and it is soldered to the Motherboard, so you have to be VERY careful with it
*The plugs for the headphone and mic jacks are on the front of the notebook
The Ugly:
*The webcam keeps dying once you power off after each video conference, but that is a problem with Win Vista and not HP. As I said, we're Microsoft's beta-testers for their new OS.
Additional comments:
Due to the strain placed on the processor by Vista, I highly recommend getting a notebook cooling base in order to avoid having the processor overheating and having the fans on all the time. Sure, exchanging internal for external fans doesn't sound to make much sense because that's what the internal fans are there for, right? But trust me, you'll thank me later because it will give your notebook an extended lifespan because overheating causes the processor to die over time. I bought Vantec LapCool-2 Dual Fan Notebook Cooler with Built-in -Port USB 2.0 Hub and it works like a charm, and you're able to power it either by USB (included) or with an external power adapter (not included, at least not in my package)
Also bought Belkin 15-Inch Messenger Bag (Chocolate/Tourmaline) and the Belkin Neoprene Notebook Sleeve for 15.4-Inch Laptop (F8N048-RL). The notebook fits in the bag WITH the sleeve on and there's even room left over for the cooler. The bag also comes with VERY nice padding and a separate "sleeve" for the power adapter, so you don't have to worry about the cables becoming all tangled up. It's also got loads of extra pockets to keep everything you might want in there, including an mp3 or iPod player holder in the front pocket.
- ought to be very good but...
     By AT64MH2NO3GHI on 2007-12-30
I bought an HP Pavilion DV6662SE witn all the features advertised by Amazon. I bought it together with the Pergus case. Both arrived well.
I turned on the laptop...beautiful it worked!!! so nice so...new!!! I was thrilled!!! But oh taugh luck... half of the software supposely advertised wouldn't work; Th HP Total Care Advisor wasn't properly installed, I contacted the HP support center and they told me that unfortunately there wasn't any possibility to download the program or worse no way to buy it; so I had to download it from one of those "unofficial freeware site" and fortunately IT DID WORK!!! but not thank to Amazone or HP... ·#2... the buit-in webcam never work I know I need a software or driver for it from HP, but teir help wouldn't work and I'm still struggleling to make it fuctional...#3, the Wi Fi conncection... it came disable from the box and for one reason or another I cound't make it work, even with the very kind help of the HP guy who was on online help support trying to tell me what to do. I'm not a computer wiz' but I work with them all the time.
In the laptop it self, there is no enough print information , like a good instruction manual, the HTML help in the machine not always correspond with what you have in your hands. In a nut shell: this laptop should be a hell of a good machine, even with the nightmare of Window Vista Home Premium... (It suks!!!)but people from Amazon should have technitians to make sure that the product they advertise and sell are in 100% working conditions ( You can't returned it IF you Oponed the box !!!and how in the world are you going to guess that the software or your product is not working if you don't open the box???) Product(Lap Top): Could be very nice if it is well configurated. Amazon: Don't buy expensive stuff if you cannot touch it, and tried. Once your purchase is in your hands... you're on your own...
- Good computer--Bad Service
     By A29HASRESDGH6F on 2008-01-16
HP has very poor service. Be prepared to spend plenty of time on hold with people that have little technical knowledge. You will be dealing with support on a different continent. They are friendly, but not very knowledgeable and have not been taught to take initiative on resolving problems. Their first is suggestion will be to try to reformat your disk. I've spent hours on the phone with HP service and twice was told a case manager would call me on the next business day. A month later, no one has called.
- Great Machine at a Great price
     By A2H826936D8NXE on 2007-12-28
I purchased this machine after much research in the under $1000 category, for my new college student. The power, storage, quality and detail features at this price point are unmatched. I found few others with 4gb ram expansion possibilities and a 250gb HDD. Screen resolution is excellent. Overall build and feel is superior. The end user likes the quiet keyboard.
The only real negative is Windows Vista. While not slow at all, Vista has lots of unnecessary stuff that it decides for you. If this machine had XP on it, it would be amazing....
Overall very satisfied and recommend it.
- Christopher Jones
     By A35MDCN33CPRP6 on 2008-01-27
Very Nicely Designed, Extremely Functional, Lightweight, Super Fast Processor, Excellent Graphics and Sound. I am an Apple Fan, but for a PC, this is Tops for your $$$$$$$$'s
Christopher N Jones
Rehoboth, MA
- No help
     By A2MU2RWSUJVE8Q on 2008-03-10
Problem- POST not recognizing memory on start-up. Computer-Pavilion still under warranty was shipped to Texas, Irving repair facility free of charge. When it was recieved back, after 45 min use stopped recognizing memory again with the same sound on start up. The paper work indicated that memory chip DDR2 PC4200 was replaced. After 3 hours with Indian technician on the phone and pulling out memory chips one by one, the defective chip was found and pulled out. The promise from the tecnician and his supervisor was given that replacement memory chip would be sent out to me. 3 days later trying to find out the status of the order case # 800892**** information from another supervisor was given that nobody is going to send me a replacement chip because it's outdated and (or) that is not in their power. After attempt to find out the name of the person we were speaking to, the phone call was disconnected.
Original order # ***056-01.
During the conversation I was explaned that for the reason of me buying outdated computer I will not get any repairs done by HP (unavaliability of parts) and I better to pay for additional waranty, so I at least will get their advice.
This is the last HP product that I bought.
Regretfully, formerly proud owner of Packard Bell and Compaq, asking forgivness for assumption that the product under the warranty should be fixed by manufacturer.
- Excellent purchase
     By A2T8JG6J5IGKD on 2008-05-04
I purchased this laptop on April 9, 2008 after reviewing the specs with a close personal friend. This laptop is awesome. I love the 250 Hard Drive and the 4 GB RAM. Vista Ultimate is a definite plus. This is the second laptop I have purchased from HP, however, the first time I have purchased electronics from Amazon, and the entire experience of buying on line from amazon was an excellent choice. This laptop is loaded and is very fast. The graphics on the screen is brilliant. I'm completely satisfied with this purchase.
- muy buena
     By A1M2PUAFARDNKD on 2007-12-01
excelente compu... solo q el win vista la hace un poco mas pesada para el cargar de incio luego.. el desempeño de la misma es excelente.
- good machine
     By AXLGOSQPFKJUT on 2007-12-26
It's a powerful machine. It's fast and it has almost everything you can need. My negative comment is just the low speed to start up. However, it shows high performance for videos and picture. It is very usable because of the size and low height. RAM memory is perfect and hard disk is big enought. I like it so much.
- Very Goog Buy.--Valencia, Venezuela.
     By A8049JHGV1KT5 on 2007-12-27
Every thing was ok with Amazon and this HP Pavillion dv6662se computer is complete and excellent. It was what I was looking for. Thanks.
- HP pavilion notebook
     By AR2R18AJVVF7W on 2007-12-27
excellent laptop, performs as stated and expected. Easy to get up and running with no problems encountered when placed in my home network.
- awesome
     By ATMUCYANGAVZZ on 2007-12-28
Simply the best bang for the buck. Centrino duo processor is blazing fast, speakers are pretty decent, but the case and construction are its distinction. To see this laptop is to love it, it looks sleek and glossy. It also includes a memory card reader built in as well as a super cool remote so you can view slideshows, movies, etc on a Tv or monitor without being right upto the laptop. Also has built in webcam and mic for home movie making for Youtube or anything. Widescreen is crystal clear, you wouldn't believe the difference in things from photos to even mundane webpages. Another good feature of the product is how cool it remains during operation, and without the use of loud exhaust fans. If you were shopping an Apple for its design, this PC is definitely worth a look. HP must have been crazy when they packed all this technology into such a sleek design at such an attractive price.
- Nice laptop for the price
     By A2ED6F20PBU6GW on 2007-12-28
This is a nice looking and complete enterteinment notebook for the price. Just a little slow sometimes but this is because the Windows Vista and the short RAM memory that comes from the factory. I recommend to expand it to 4 GB (maximum) so you can feel the difference on the speed. The computer sometimes get frozen and I need to re-start it. According to another user, this problem can be fixed by updating BIOS versions. I still recommend this computer just in case your budget is low.
- Great buy!
     By A1TRMBYP5C68FG on 2008-01-01
I looked at several laptops and then got this one. It is great. Everything that I wanted!
- Very Slick Computer
     By A1AFD9PR571KV1 on 2008-01-03
I am extremely satisfied with this computer. It does evrything that I need it to do with great speed & Efficiency!!! I can multi-task like a champ, and the computer doesn't get bogged down in the least.
- Great for the price.
     By A1INWUMWUQ2JNI on 2008-01-03
Great laptop for the price. I bought a little more RAM for it right off the bat, and cleaned it of all the preinstalled stuff. Other than that it doesn't neet anything to compete with laptops that are much more expensive.
- Good Buy
     By A1SB6R7L5PHJ36 on 2008-01-08
So far I am okay with my new Hp Laptop. The only issue is that i anticipated a faster start up time
- hp review
     By A2H6CPHIRZAQIW on 2008-01-19
I've had a HP Pavillion a few years ago, and it was horrible. My father in law showed me that HP had gotten better. This computer has everything that I was looking for, and I couldn't beat the price. The only thing that I don't like about this computer, is that the battery life sucks. It only lasts 2-3 hours.
- HP Pavilion DV6662SE
     By A1D8B98SW3KSGN on 2008-01-21
I say it is excellent adquision because this team is my work tool and staff
- Cool looking budget notebook
     By A3289JFCY7L72W on 2008-01-27
This is a very cool looking laptop, with basic capabilities if you are using the-too-much-resources-demanding Vista. I will try XP and Ubuntu later and see what can it do there. So far pretty satisfied with it.
|
|
HP Pavilion DV6605US 15.4-inch Entertainment Laptop (AMD Athlon 64 Processor TK-55, 1 GB RAM, 160 GB Hard Drive, Vista Premium) Accessories
|
|
|
|
You may also be interested in...
|
|
|
|
|
| Product Features |
- Entertainment-centric notebook PC with widescreen 15.4-inch LCD and stylish high-gloss finish with wave imprint
- 64-bit 1.8 GHz AMD Athlon 64 X2 TK-55 processor, 160 GB hard drive, 1 GB RAM (4 GB max), LightScribe dual-layer DVD drive
- 54g Wi-Fi (802.11b/g); 10/100 Ethernet; Nvidia GeForce Go 7150 graphics (up to 287 MB of available memory)
- Connectivity: 3 USB, 1 FireWire, 1 VGA, 1 S-Video, expansion port 3 connector, ExpressCard 54/34, 5-in-1 memory card reader
- Pre-installed with Windows Vista Home Premium (with Media Center capabilities)
|
|
|
|