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400

Quad Core for Inspiron Desktops Now

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), Desktops, Inspiron products submitted by bg02446 09/04/07

I'd like to see quad core processors offered on Inspiron desktops ASAP. Quad core processors aren't terribly expensive and would be of real benefit to those of us (possibly excessive) multi-taskers. 11 Comments »

100

Dell QuickCharge

Laptop Power submitted by helmecj01 09/04/07

what about this
Dell QuickCharge increases battery life and reduces recharging time: In one hour it brings the battery to 80% full charge and 100% in just two. 1 Comment »

0

Blu-Ray Shouldn't Cost so Much

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), Sales Strategies submitted by fgilley 09/04/07

With Blu-Ray being in competition with HD-DVD, and Dell supporting the Blu-ray option, the systems with Blu-Ray drives seem EXTEREMLY OVER PRICED. I love the idea of blu-ray, i have a Playstation 3 with a Blu-ray player, and the movies in HD look awesome, but i can't believe that a laptop with a blu-ray disk writer is so much.

Why cant you get a CHEAP system + Blu-ray

The only option right now is to get a HIGH END 2500+ system, and then ADD the blu-ray to that system making it 3000+ dollars!!

Wheres a Consumer Inspiron or Vostro notebook with good proc, mem, ect and a nice blu-ray? somewhere around the 1000 dollar mark.. ? *maybe 1500 dollar mark with the 1920x1200 display to view in HD, and hopefully avail in 15 inch not just 17 inch models?!* 19 Comments »

-60

Dell XPS M1210 upgrade

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), XPS products submitted by israelien 09/04/07

Hope dell will upgrade dell xps M1210

specs to upgrade:

mobo sta. rosa to support nvidia 8600 GT

supports bluray

and uses SSD technology for hdd

hope this will come in future

revive xps m1210 2 Comments »

380

Fix issue regarding OS installation vs. SATA Hard Drive

Servers and Storage, Vostro products submitted by rpricket 09/02/07

The suggestion is that Dell must update the bios/firmware for its Vostro computers to give better support of the SATA drives. This – or otherwise create a means by which to install the operating system of choice, without a prob.



Why is this needed? - In short, without proper SATA matrix drivers installed, the user may (as I have) encounter severe problems when trying to install a fresh copy of the operating system of choice. These problems may include anything from locking up during installation, or even the Blue Screen of Death. The sad part is, that in my experience, there is no option to load these matrix drivers during XP install – meaning, one cannot install XP.
The root cause? – its hard to say, but obviously there is a hardware conflict if drivers are needed just to properly install an OS.

My Experience:
I ordered my dell Vostro 1700 late July of 07, and received it the first week of August – well ahead of the expected delivery date. Having spent about $1,700 on my setup, I was very excited to open the box and start enjoying my new laptop. (Tech specs listed below) In the first hour of use, I encountered my first problem - a popping in the sound playback. Wonderful. Simply Wonderful. (I will address this issue in a separate proposal) After some searching I found this issue addressed on the dell forums, with no real solution. Thinking it couldn’t get much worse, I went on.

Problem number two – the case of the failing video drivers. Specifically while gaming, my NVidia GeForce 8600 GT drivers would suddenly stop working for about 15 seconds – this would happen again, and again, reoccurring every hour or two. I have yet to find the solution. My Vostro is slowly losing its appeal, but I remain faithful… (Will also be fully addressed in a separate proposal)

Here’s where the fun begins: (…sometime later)
After running into some problems that were seemingly unfixable with a program I was running, I decided to reformat my hard drive and do a fresh install of Windows Vista Home Basic. – Something I do regularly to keep my computers running smoothly. Upon opening the box however, I found that the Vista install DVD was not included. How dare they! - after talking to a tech for 15 minutes I get them to ship me a copy of the DVD.

THE REAL PROBLEM-
2 days later, the DVD arrives and I’m all set to reinstall. I pop in the DVD, boot from CD/DVD drive, and off I go. I click through the installation jargon, format the drive, and hit next. Windows starts installing… the first step completes… then the next… and the next – Last step! (the computer reboots here) the last step is listed as “Completing Installation…” and the yellow progress bar at the bottom of the screen is maybe 2/3 full. This is where everything breaks loose – I wait…and wait... and wait… and wait (4-6 hours). (still displaying “Completing Installation…” I reboot and try the process again.

Guess what. It did the same thing again…and again… and again. I tried installing Vista in the exact same manner 6 times! I don’t get it, is my DVD bad? Is my hardware bad?? I log on to dells tech support chat.
During the 2 hour chat, I did everything from run a system diagnostics, to try installing again – and all I got was a “…this is a very special issue.” to “…why don’t we just send you another hard drive, pre-flashed with vista.” - a temporary fix.

Feeling discontent with Dells tech support, I continued to search Google for information on this issue, and maybe find people with similar problems. I did. If you follow this link here: http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=149762 you will see what I found – a lot of people with the same problem with Vostro notebooks, or notebooks of a similar build.

The two existing solutions are as follows:

1. Disable the AHCI for your SATA Drive in the BIOS.
- Doing this will allow you to install without a prob. BUT, disabling your AHCI will cripple your drive capabilities and reduce speed. – so this is definitely not a good fix.

2. Load the SATA drive Matrix drivers before selecting the partition during vista installation.
- Doing this will allow an install – but in my experience, only Vista. The version of XP I have (dell XP cd), because there is no driver prompt, begins to load its components but after a few minutes it ends at the BSoD. Other OS’s may have very similar problems.
- Heres the link to those Matrix drivers btw:
- 32bit: http://support.dell.com/support/downloads/download.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=gen&relea...
- 64bit: http://support.us.dell.com/support/downloads/download.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=gen&re...

So you tell me - should we have to put up with this, or should Dell actually do something about it? I’m not sure if this problem could be solved with a BIOS update, but if it can be, then do it…NOW!! If it can’t, then Dell needs to recall all the Vostro computers experiencing this problem and replace the conflicting hardware. – It’s hard to say if the SATA drive is actually the core cause; it may be the video card, the memory, the mother board, or any number of other components.

Lastly, I find it extremely disheartening that Dells own techs didn’t realize this problem existed, maybe because not many end users have had to reformat yet, much less know how.

Further input or recognition of this problem by other users would be much appreciated. 1

Thank You!

Additonal Information and Resources:

Copy of my 2 hour conversation with the Dell Tech – minor humor included. Some information has been “****” starred out for privacy. Get it here:
http://download207.mediafire.com/alya1yxujrng/9zno8mngmji/dellconvo.html




My Tech Specs:
Vostro 1700
Intel Core 2 Duo T7500, 2.2GHz, 800Mhz FSB 4M L2 Cache
17.0 inch Wide Screen UXGA TL LCD
3GB, DDR2, 667MHz 2 DIMM$
256MB NVIDIA GEFORCE 8600M GT
160G 5400RPM SATA hard drive
Genuine Windows Vista Home Basic
Dell Exclusive MediaDirect Instant Play Software Application
Integrated 10/100 Network Card and Modem, for Inspiron
Adobe Acrobat Reader 7.08 Vostro
8X DVD+/-RW with double-layer DVD+R write capability,
Integrated High Definition Audio 2.0
Dell Wireless 1505 Wireless-N Mini Card
No Built in Camera 1700
Norton Internet Security 2007 30 Day Trial
WHr 9-cell Lithium Ion Primary Battery, Vostro 1700
Dell Wirless 355 Bluetooth Module (2.0+EDR)
Windows Vista Home Basic

16 Comments »

550

Option for 'Lap Friendly' underside.

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), Laptops submitted by kwifler 09/03/07

I'm sure many of you have noticed some burn warnings for notebooks, and some cautions against setting them directly on your laps, but this can be minimized or even prevented.

Just add the option for an underside that uses special materials/gridlines across the bottom of the notebook to act like a radiator and minimize the possibility to trap heat. I am not sure whether this should be a snap-on design or a permanent shell-redesign. 4 Comments »

390

Provide Ubuntu on Servers??

Linux, Servers and Storage submitted by phubert 08/31/07

Seems Canonical is thinking of it...

Canonical angles for Dell to offer pre-installed Ubuntu Linux on the server

...if there's demand...

****

PROMOTE if you like this idea: ****

http://searchenterpriselinux.techtarget.com/originalContent/0,289142,sid39_gc... 9 Comments »

1160

Make memory upgrades EASIER, not more difficult

Sales Strategies, Simplify IT, Laptops submitted by nicopoon 08/19/07

I've always been able to upgrade memory myself on notebooks and laptops, but am concerned to see that Dell has made it so much harder to upgrade memory on new notebooks. You apparently now have to take the notebook apart by removing the keyboard to access memory slots. Why make it so hard for your customers, Mr Dell? All I can see is a lot of unneeded support calls and parts failures as a result of this change.

Besides, I am stunned to see memory prices on the online configurators. 4GB of notebook memory for $400+, while anyone can get the same quality memory under $150 in retail?

Please: either make memory price competitive, and I'll buy the 4GB upfront, or make it easy to upgrade it... before users break their notebook in the process. 9 Comments »

1220

Add 802.11n wireless option for your Linux offerings.

Linux submitted by jmxz 08/15/07

I can't find any of your Linux offerings with a 802.11n offering. Seems most 802.11n chipsets have pretty weak driver support right now; but fundamentally 802.11n does work with Linux (heck, Cisco 802.11n devices are even linux based). Adding 802.11n as an option along - even in a partially working state with a disclaimer that drivers are not stable - would help some linux customers including (a) those people who don't mind helping debugging the driver, and (b) those people willing to use wired networking until the drivers get more mature.

Also, of course Dell could tell the vendors to provide a working driver as Michael Dell himself suggested
http://www.techweb.com/wire/story/TWB20000815S0014

"One of the big challenges has been the driver world," Dell said. "Chipset companies and peripheral companies need to develop for Linux. Dell can be a powerful ally. We can say, 'if you want to work for Dell give us drivers with support for Linux.'



Dell - please stay focused on the highest-voted ideas, though. Don't distract yourselves with this one until you've addressed the ideas below which have been the top-ranked ideas for at least 6 months without adequate responses..
  1. 147,808 - dhart - Pre-Installed Linux [and not just on a couple obsolete models in limited geographies]
  2. 127,719 - dhart - Pre-Installed OpenOffice | alternative to MS Works & MS Office
  3. 107,313 - robinjfisher - Have Firefox pre-installed as default browser
  4. 89,183 - ootleman - No Extra Software Option [only a couple models are crapware-free today]
  5. 78,007 - gergnz - Provide Linux Drivers for all your Hardware
  6. 73,600 - agreer - No OS Preloaded [and not just on a couple obsolete models]
7 Comments »

950

High(er) spec Ubuntu laptops for UK/France/Germany

Inspiron products, Linux, Laptops submitted by jarocooke 08/24/07

I am literally sitting here willing to buy a Dell Ubuntu the second it is available, however there are a few things that it must have:

1. FSB of 667Mhz (at least)
2. A Core 2 Duo processor
3. A 1440x900 display

These things are all available options on the US 1420N model and were they available in the UK I would already have bought one. Please offer a higher spec laptop with Ubuntu installed as soon as possible. 4 Comments »

47990

Sell Linux PCs Worldwide - not only the United States

Linux, Sales Strategies, Desktops and Laptops submitted by ergo 05/02/07 **PARTIALLY IMPLEMENTED**

Dell has now decided to sell computers with Linux pre-installed. GREAT MOVE! But for the moment, it only concerns the US... Here outside the US, we can't wait to buy a pre-installed Linux Dell PC! Please sell Linux PCs worldwide!


Check out the details on Dell Linux systems worldwide!
524 Comments »

1150

Universal Notebook Power Adapter

Laptops, Laptop Power submitted by slateslate 08/24/07

1. I've owned Dell Latitudes and Inspirons since 1998.
2. Your power adapters have a life expectancy of 12-18 months under daily mobile use. It is annoying for have these adapters fray.
3. Subsequent generations of notebooks each have unique adapters. Make all adapters the same after this generation of notebooks. So that should one power adapter fray, I can swap with another Dell adapter even if it's from a different notebook model.

OR

1. MAKE YOUR POWER ADAPTERS LESS PRONE TO FRAY AT THE END WHERE THE ADAPTER MEETS THE COMPUTER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 4 Comments »

1580

Sell Linux PCs in Canada.

Linux, Sales Strategies submitted by sorooros 08/14/07

How hard can it be to ship boxes north of the border? Dell.ca needs Linux option! 12 Comments »

3240

Don't make it difficult for people to find Ubuntu machines

Dell Web Site, Linux submitted by xivulon 08/09/07

Ubuntu is now shipped to Europe, but it is hidden away and not that obvious to find. If you did not follow the news, you would probably have missed it completely. What link do people usually follow when buying a laptop at dell.co.uk? They follow the most preminent links:

Notebooks > Home > Home Essential Notebooks

This is where they usually end up to: http://www1.euro.dell.com/content/products/features.aspx/notebooks_good?c=uk&...

The inspiron 6400 does come with Ubuntu, but do you see a "Select with ubuntu" button anywhere? I don't think so. If you want a Ubuntu machine you have to get there via a completely different route, by selecting the OS first (on the less visible left column) and then the machine... You can do that for XP too, but with XP you can also select the machine first and then the OS. Why is it not the same with Ubuntu? Moreover, if you click on the laptop image, it will automatically select Vista (thus giving it far more preminence).

So, I am glad Dell started shipping Ubuntu, but to me it looks like they only want to make informed geeks happy, while hiding the option to average joe. If Dell was really serious they should have Ubuntu listed in the customization section of each and every supported machine.

Customize your Operating System:

* Ubuntu Linux [subtract £30]
* Genuine Windows XP [Included in price]
* Genuine Windows Vista™ Home Basic - English [Included in Price]
* Genuine Windows Vista™ Home Premium - English [add £23.50]
* Genuine Windows Vista™ Ultimate (32Bit) - English [add £117.50]

There is already a conflict-resolution message, so you could easily signal incompatible OS/hardware choices. The above is what I call "choice", anything else is muddling the water. 6 Comments »

1140

More detailed hardware specs when building a computer

Service and Support, Desktops and Laptops submitted by bbr 08/24/07

Like a number of other users, i like to mix and match a system, but with the ease of a system put together by dell.

Show per component what the detailed specs are.
So we know what we're getting, perhaps there are equal quality components, for a lower price available, perhaps users want different hardware.

I could see this being difficult however, since you could go to a hardware store, buy 1500 Euros worth in loose components and end up with a computer equal to a 2000 euro dell system. More detailed component specs however will never hurt anyone though.
what's the refresh time of the monitor, size and manufacturer of the HD, buffer, ram size, bus speed, clock speed of the video card. etc.

For example :

Antec LifeStyle Sonata III : 500W power supply included : http://www.antec.com/ec/productDetails.php?ProdID=08142
Asrock 775Dual-VSTA : http://www.asrock.com/mb/overview.asp?Model=4CoreDual-SATA2&s=
Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 (S775, 4x 2.4GHz, 8MB, 1066MHz FSB, Boxed) : http://www.intel.com/products/processor/core2quad/index.htm
Cooler Master Hyper TX 2 : http://www.coolermaster.com/products/product.php?act=detail&tbcate=1&id=2535
2x1G ram. Kingston KVR667D2N5K2/2G : http://www.ec.kingston.com/ecom/configurator_new/PartsInfo.asp?root=us&LinkBa...:
Creative X-Fi Xtreme Gamer : http://nl.europe.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=209&subcategory=6...
ATI Sapphire Radeon X1950 Pro 512MB DDR3 (AGP, 2x DVI) 11099-00-20 : http://www.sapphiretech.com/ne/products/products_overview.php?gpid=168&grp=2
Western Digital Caviar SE16 WD5000KS, 500GB (7200rpm, SATA II, 16MB)
Samsung SH-S182M 18x (Dual-layer, Lightscribe, Zwart)
Windows XP Home
Samsung Syncmaster 226BW (22", wide, 2ms (GtoG), D-Sub/DVI-D, Zwart) : http://www.samsung.com/nl/products/monitor/lcdmonitors/widescreen/226bw.asp
Logitech G11 Gaming Keyboard (USB)
Logitech G5 Laser Mouse (USB) - wired 7 Comments »

1390

Show effects on weight & battery life when building a laptop

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), Laptops submitted by ashley 08/30/07

As you add or remove components it would be nice to see how it is affecting the weight and battery life of the laptop. 8 Comments »

2660

"Europe" is not only France + Germany + UK

Linux, Service and Support submitted by warp10 08/08/07

Dell started selling PCs equipped with Ubuntu in Europe a few days ago. Anyway, looks like Dell think Europe is only France, Germany and UK. [1]
In Europe there are many countries that are good markets for Dell, and that wait the possibility to buy Ubuntu-installed Desktop and Notebook.
Please, give to the *whole* Europe the possibility to buy these computers.

[1] http://www.ubuntu.com/dell 19 Comments »

1620

Stop moving *Backwards* in your Linux progress - return the NVidia graphics option.

Inspiron products, Linux, Laptops submitted by jmxz 08/16/07

During the first 2 days of your Ubuntu sales you didn't offer any accelerated graphics options on Ubuntu laptops. After numerous Ideas requesting the addition, and phone calls to your sales guys as well (I know I made at least one) the option was added and I even posted an idea thanking you for having the option on the day I ordered one.

Now I see that you again removed the option of accelerated graphics on Ubuntu systems?!?

WHY? It works fine on the E1505N you sent me!

What's with the horrible history of backwards progress on your Linux systems.? You showed backward progress on the warranties (and then fixed them again). You showed backward progress on the pricing and discounts (and then fixed them again; and then undid the fixes again).

It seems that just as fast as you mark Ideas "Completed" you go around un-completing them.

You're making me believe the conspiracy theories that were originally made in jest about people in Dell trying to make the Linux projects fail. 10 Comments »

2340

Better selection of Linux notebooks

Linux submitted by kasoroth 08/07/07

An Ubuntu notebook with higher specs would be nice. At a minimum, I'd want a decent monitor option (1920x1200 resolution), a decent NVIDIA video card option, and gigabit ethernet. I'd also prefer an AMD processor, and a price point about $50 less than an equivalent Windows system. 5 Comments »

1150

Give discount for the delays

Sales Strategies, Service and Support submitted by saleemohaib 08/29/07

These days there are delays with some of Dell products. I think as good gesture Dell should offer extra discounts to customers who order products with extended delivery time.

Vote and comment. 23 Comments »



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