Acer Ferrari 3200 review (just a few pics/couple benches)

[Duke_Audi]

Great to hear it :)

If you or anybody else for that matter find my posts here useful, then I'd appreciate it very much if you added to my reputation by clicking on the http://notebookforums.com/images/buttons/reputation.gif-button beneath my nick on the post you find most useful give me your approval. Thank you! :cheers:

Oh geeezz Snore, I'll wear out my clicker doing that. hehehe :D
But luckily I have an extra, (Brand New) Ferrari mouse that I haven't taken out of it's wrappin' yet.
So as I find 'em I'll do that. It's the least I can do for the vast amount of info you've shared.
Thanks Dude! :dude:

[monologuist]

Two questions :
1. Does anybody have any suggestions for a sleeve/cover that will fit the Ferrari? It doesn't have to have padding or anything; mainly I am just tired of attracting attention with the bitchin paint job! (something you can keep on while using it)

2. My hard drive seems to have ground to slug-like speeds. On my HD -Tach test, it was running around 3 mb/sec sequential read and burst, and showing 99% CPU utilization for some reason. I've run a bunch of Trojan-hunters, and anti-spyware programs and have not come up with anything. I can't seem to pinpoint anything abnormal on my System Config. window either...the cpu just seems to rev up to 90-100% at random times, and everything starts to sputter! Any ideas before I have to clean install ?

[snorre]

Done, dude!
Thanks! :cheers:

Oh geeezz Snore, I'll wear out my clicker doing that. hehehe :D
But luckily I have an extra, (Brand New) Ferrari mouse that I haven't taken out of it's wrappin' yet.
So as I find 'em I'll do that. It's the least I can do for the vast amount of info you've shared.
Thanks Dude! :dude:
Wow, thanks that's awesome so please keep 'em coming! :bouncy:

Two questions :
1. Does anybody have any suggestions for a sleeve/cover that will fit the Ferrari? It doesn't have to have padding or anything; mainly I am just tired of attracting attention with the bitchin paint job! (something you can keep on while using it)
Perhaps this one:
http://www.ebags.com/shaun_jackson_designs_inc/laptrap/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=9444

2. My hard drive seems to have ground to slug-like speeds. On my HD -Tach test, it was running around 3 mb/sec sequential read and burst, and showing 99% CPU utilization for some reason. I've run a bunch of Trojan-hunters, and anti-spyware programs and have not come up with anything. I can't seem to pinpoint anything abnormal on my System Config. window either...the cpu just seems to rev up to 90-100% at random times, and everything starts to sputter! Any ideas before I have to clean install ?
Try updating the chipset drivers and defrag your hard drive.

[fskidd]

Hi Snorre!

Have you tried to use the Arctic Silver 5? Does it help to reduce the heat?Thanks!

[tbshop]

Kensington makes a really nice case. I found one at CompUSA.

It has sleeve inside that will fit the Ferrari and you can carry that around. Inside that is another padded sleve but it's too small.

Otherwise it's a really nice case.


Snorre, I got that Corsair memory you suggested. I noticed an immediate improvement.

I also wanted to click on those icons you mentioned but can't see them. Maybe I neded to be logged in, I'll look after posting this.

I've also applied some of your tweaks but could not follow everything and I thing some software has been updated. I did have a question those. Is there a simple way I can determine just what I tweaked up and a general overalll listing of what all my hardware is doing. A freeware prog perhaps. Basically, it's running great but I don't know what I have done. I could post some screen shots of settings if you think that would help.

Thanks,

Tom

[shadinio]

umm...ferrari.wav plz anyone?! :)

[Duke_Audi]

Done! (Let me know if you have any problems with it.)

That wave file is a nice touch, too bad they didn't carry that theme all the way through, (like: chequered flag cursor, air wrench sounds etc.) Especially when shutting down the system they should have used the "Pit In" air horn combined with the sound of an F1 Ferrari coming into the "Pit Box" and then shutting off the engine. :mmm:

[shadinio]

appreciate that Duke Audi life wasnt the same b4 the startup sound :)

[snorre]

Have you tried to use the Arctic Silver 5? Does it help to reduce the heat?Thanks!
No I haven't, but I guess it would help to reduce the max CPU temperature a few degrees Celcius at least.

I also wanted to click on those icons you mentioned but can't see them. Maybe I neded to be logged in, I'll look after posting this.
Thanks to you and everyone that added to my reputation :cheers:

I've also applied some of your tweaks but could not follow everything and I thing some software has been updated. I did have a question those. Is there a simple way I can determine just what I tweaked up and a general overalll listing of what all my hardware is doing. A freeware prog perhaps. Basically, it's running great but I don't know what I have done. I could post some screen shots of settings if you think that would help.
I know, the display driver GUI got a different layout now with the Catalyst Control Center. The same options are still there, but the locations have changed slightly. When I got more time I'll update the guides affected by this.

Edit: I've now updated all my guides:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?t=41052

That wave file is a nice touch, too bad they didn't carry that theme all the way through, (like: chequered flag cursor, air wrench sounds etc.) Especially when shutting down the system they should have used the "Pit In" air horn combined with the sound of an F1 Ferrari coming into the "Pit Box" and then shutting off the engine. :mmm:
Good idea, perhaps someone here should put together a proper Ferrari theme for us? :D

Btw, for those of you that are interested in Windows XP x64 Edition I've put together a list of all available 64-bit drivers that are compatible with the Acer Ferrari 3200/3400 here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=620381#post620381

Note that even the 64-bit Broadcom 802.11g WLAN (BCM43xx) driver is finally available now :cheers:

[MadsD]

The machine arrives on thursday, if I'm lucky. :-)
... aaaaaand the machine arrived yesterday!!! Wooohoooo, what a monster! :love: Well, with a bit of beginners problems, I now seem to have a normally operating notebook.

I reinstalled with a clean Windows XP CD (integrated Service Pack 2), and used the drivers suggested by Snorre in a very earlier post :surreal: (God, this thread is so loooong!!!)

Unfortunately it came with 3y27 BIOS (don't remember if it's y it's called), so the fan is kicking in pretty often. But I don't care, I don't know how it is, without this BIOS version, so I don't care :bouncy:

I can put 3 fingers on this notebook:

Very lousy speakers!!! (Compared to Compaq Presario 700EAs JBL Pro speakers), but I actually anticipated this :confused:
WPA security doesn't work well with my D-Link 624+ router.
The mouse is cool, but very "plasticy"
I cannot boot to my USB-key, nor the 4in1 card reader (tried formatting a 32mb MMC card (Hitachi). The USB key is known good, as it works on Dell Optiplex GX270 computers. Please everyone, write to Acer about this. This HAS to work! Partition Magic wan'ts a writeable driveletter in DOS.


Snorre!! How do one see ones reputation??? :scratch:

[algirdas2004]

Hi everyone.

It's really great that the community of Ferrari 3200 users is growing, as well as this thread... :dude:

Well, I've got some questions about my Ferrari for you, guys:
1. My laptop is currently rather slow. Is it likely that this is caused by the slow hard drive (I have the Toshiba drive)? Does the Hitachi drive really boost the whole system?
2. I still have problems with the graphic card drivers. The only that once suited were the Omega drivers v2590. But even these sometimes crash and I have to uninstall them and stay for a while without any drivers.
3. I have an annoying problem with my pointer. Sometimes, not that often though, it starts moving all by itself (always to the left side if that matters). It doesn't stop even if I move the mouse. After some time it stops as mysteriously as appeared. This is not such a big problem, just sometimes it gets really irritating.
4. While booting, when the WinXP Welcome screen appears, my computer waits quite a while apparently doing nothing (the hard drive does not work). Is it normal? Because of that, the whole booting process takes quite a long time. I encountered this with other computer (not Ferrari) as well. Am I doing something wrong? Any suggestions?

Ok, that's enough for now. Thanks a lot for any help.

Best regards,
Algirdas

[snorre]

Snorre!! How do one see ones reputation??? :scratch:
Go to "User CP" and see under "Latest Reputation Received". Hold your mouse pointer over the little green reputation dot(s) beneath the avatar for a amusing title :)

[snorre]

1. My laptop is currently rather slow. Is it likely that this is caused by the slow hard drive (I have the Toshiba drive)? Does the Hitachi drive really boost the whole system?
Slow in what regard, slow to start or to use? Spyware & stuff are known to slow down your computer if you don't protect yourself properly, e.g. check out Spybot-S&D:
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/index.html

If you want to know how the original hard drive (Toshiba MK8025GAS) compares to other available hard drives I suggest you take a look at this review:
http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/storage/display/hitachi-25-7200.html

2. I still have problems with the graphic card drivers. The only that once suited were the Omega drivers v2590. But even these sometimes crash and I have to uninstall them and stay for a while without any drivers.
Try updating to the new Omega Drivers 2.5.97a, they work great:
http://www.omegadrivers.net/ati/win2k_xp.php

3. I have an annoying problem with my pointer. Sometimes, not that often though, it starts moving all by itself (always to the left side if that matters). It doesn't stop even if I move the mouse. After some time it stops as mysteriously as appeared. This is not such a big problem, just sometimes it gets really irritating.
Check your mousepad settings, they might be set up too sensitive.

4. While booting, when the WinXP Welcome screen appears, my computer waits quite a while apparently doing nothing (the hard drive does not work). Is it normal? Because of that, the whole booting process takes quite a long time. I encountered this with other computer (not Ferrari) as well. Am I doing something wrong? Any suggestions?
No, but if you've used either WLAN or Bluetooth and later disabled them (with the buttons in front) Windows will be looking for them and it thus takes some time for this process to time-out.

[MadsD]

Go to "User CP" and see under "Latest Reputation Received".

Hmm, doesn't seem that I've gotten any reputation :$ ... ;) Because I can't see any "Latest Reputation Received" :mmm:


Try updating to the new Omega Drivers 2.5.97a, they work great:
http://www.omegadrivers.net/ati/win2k_xp.php

Yes. I've been using these for a whole 2 days now :lol: ... and I haven't had any issues with them.

I think I'll update my signature in a little, with all the benchmarks I need to run. Furthermore. I've written an email to Acer asking the supporters to forward my request of creating a BIOS where you can boot from a USB-key or the built-in card-readers. I suggest you who read this also do this :)

For all who wants to know... Warcraft III - TFT runs smoothly in 1400x1050 and 32 bit colors. Flash and Java animations are smooth with this video card and Starcraft, Diablo II, Heroes of Might and Magic III all run smooth too. I also expected them too.

Aaah.. I feel like babbling too much I think :lol:

[algirdas2004]

Slow in what regard, slow to start or to use?

Slow in both regards. :) Well, I installed the Spybot-S&D, it found some spyware, now I feel more sucure. :) However, the laptop is not faster. For example, I use LaTeX to write documents and it takes quite a while to compile it. On other computers with rather weaker configurations takes it just a half of a second... :scratch: Is it possible that this is because I don't have any graphics drivers installed?

Try updating to the new Omega Drivers 2.5.97a, they work great:
http://www.omegadrivers.net/ati/win2k_xp.php

Yes, I donwloaded these, but the computer craches once I install them. It crashes when the Windows are loading. I'm sure it's not the fault of the drivers, since they have worked for many of you very well, but I can't find the problem in my lappy either... As you remember, I tried the MemTest v1.86 (not sure; the newest), no errors found. I am going to bring my laptop to the Technical Support, maybe that would help...

Anyway, thanks for help. I appreciate this a lot.

Regards,
Algirdas

[silverdragun]

I got the same problem (hard drive slow) as Algirdas two weeks ago. I reinstalled Windows two times and finally it got faster. But the fan comes on more often after the reinstallation (without updating bios), any idea? Thanks

[snorre]

Hmm, doesn't seem that I've gotten any reputation :$ ... ;) Because I can't see any "Latest Reputation Received" :mmm:

Yes. I've been using these for a whole 2 days now :lol: ... and I haven't had any issues with them.
:lol:

The easiest way to check your reputation is just by clicking on the http://notebookforums.com/images/buttons/reputation.gif-button beneath your nick on one of your posts.

[snorre]

Slow in both regards. :) Well, I installed the Spybot-S&D, it found some spyware, now I feel more sucure. :) However, the laptop is not faster. For example, I use LaTeX to write documents and it takes quite a while to compile it. On other computers with rather weaker configurations takes it just a half of a second... :scratch: Is it possible that this is because I don't have any graphics drivers installed?
I'd think so, but it might be something more serious.

Yes, I donwloaded these, but the computer craches once I install them. It crashes when the Windows are loading. I'm sure it's not the fault of the drivers, since they have worked for many of you very well, but I can't find the problem in my lappy either... As you remember, I tried the MemTest v1.86 (not sure; the newest), no errors found. I am going to bring my laptop to the Technical Support, maybe that would help...
Ok, then I suggest that you reinstall Windows preferably using the standard Windows XP CD and not the one provided by Acer (just use the Windows XP key beneath your laptop) and the drivers suggested by me here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=403768#post403768

[algirdas2004]

Ok, then I suggest that you reinstall Windows preferably using the standard Windows XP CD and not the one provided by Acer (just use the Windows XP key beneath your laptop) and the drivers suggested by me here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=403768#post403768

I have already installed Windows separately, because the Acer CDs partition my whole disk into two inappropriate for me partitions and install old drivers. Probably I should consult the Technical Support... Still, I love my shiny red Ferrari. :love:

Thanks a lot anyway. You, guys, have helped enormously. I'm so happy I've found this forum.

Regards,
Algirdas

[algirdas2004]

I've just installed Linux Mandrake on my lappy. Are there any new/enhanced drivers for this OS? So far, everything goes fine there. Even the graphics card works well! :)

[Fight Club]

hi everybody, any news about uj-825s for region free?
or if anybody knows a way so we can shrink the DVDs with shrink?
thx

[rain_director]

Hello!
Just an update again. My Ferrari is working great since the last time I've posted :-) I'm happy happy :-). Btw, my Kingston Memory arrived today, will be installing them tomorrow! Yipeeeee!!!!

[shadinio]

algirdas u were complainin about a slow loading of windows on the welcome screen well then during this slow loading process plz check if the bluetooth LED indicator is flashing. i guess u have sp2 installed and there is a certain issue that Microsoft published concerning this problem. bluetooth isnt able to find some devices because it doesnt have the proper authorization or smthn of that sort. to be sure if thats happenin check ur system event viewer and u should find an error called BTHUSB i think.
i have a question myself now, i understand that the Ferrari 3200 has a max of 16X writing speed right? well the only 2 options that i had on NTI-CD Makter were 4 and 8. although if i check in drive properties is shows me that i have 4-8-12-16. also in My Computer if i check the properties on my DVD-Drive under the recording tab i can only choose between 1-2-4-8-Fastest. and besides changing these values didnt affect the actual writing speed so i was just wondering how could i get my 16X workin and if anybody has this same problem...

[rain_director]

Shadinio,
This maybe a dumb answer. I'm not sure if I'm correct but I'll try, 4-8-12-16 I think stands for max speeds for specific media 4X DVDRW, 8X DVDR, 12X CDRW, 16X CDR. That's how I understand it. So if you're writing DVDR, up to only 8X will appear in the option. You didn't mention which media are you writing to, is it DVD or CD?

In my DVD ROMs recording tab, I have 1-2-4-8-16-fastest. I'm not sure why you don't have the "16" there.

[shadinio]

rain director r u using NTI CD maker or some other software?

[Fight Club]

the first thing when i got my f3200 was to format it and unistall nti and put nero and alchohol. not that is bad, to tell you the true i did open it just 1 time. i just want the others.
i have the same problem and i believe the answer is that depends what are u try to burn (many files or one big) and if laptop is many hours open in use.
sometimes burn my movies in 4x speed and other times in 2x
same and cds other 16x others 8x.
sorry for my english im from greece.
my only problem is that i cant copy dvds from the other regions i have choose.
and we have the most cool laptop in the world :love:

[snorre]

I've now finally updated my overclocking/performance tweak guide here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=455976#post455976

I've also updated my battery life optimization/tweak guide here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=458650#post458650

See my post here for a quick overview of all my guides:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?t=41052

:cheers:

[wikedlam]

Hi Snorre, a quick question,

I just upgraded my Ferrari to 1G RAM with a pair of Corsair XMS 512MB PC3200, same as yours. I used the CPUID-Z version 1.26 and it does register it as having 1GB Ram, but on the memory section the Channels # only says Single. is this normal and same on yours? I ask this becuase I thought having used 2 slots should register it as Dual Channel or is this just an Intel thing as I noticed it does say Dual on a Intel Pentium notebook when 2 slots are used.

With 1GB RAM, few improvements were noted:

1. Windows now seems to run more responsive
2. Faster loading times on HL2 and runs much smoother overall.
3. Aquamark increased specially CPU score now increased to over 8000+ without OC whereas previously I could only get 7800 max.
4. The current discharged on battery now reduces down to 17.99 where as previous would be around 18.9, so guess it uses less current and means more battery life.

Oh the subject of battery life, I noticed that my battery already has an 18% wear, so no wonder it can never last over 3 hrs. It states 64680W full capacity, but on max charge it says 53038W so I am lossing 18% of juice max time now is around 2hrs + :mad:

[snorre]

Hi Snorre, a quick question,

I just upgraded my Ferrari to 1G RAM with a pair of Corsair XMS 512MB PC3200, same as yours. I used the CPUID-Z version 1.26 and it does register it as having 1GB Ram, but on the memory section the Channels # only says Single. is this normal and same on yours? I ask this becuase I thought having used 2 slots should register it as Dual Channel or is this just an Intel thing as I noticed it does say Dual on a Intel Pentium notebook when 2 slots are used.
Yes, that's the same with me and that's normal since all socket 754 processors like those in the Ferrari series only support single channel memory.

With 1GB RAM, few improvements were noted:

1. Windows now seems to run more responsive
2. Faster loading times on HL2 and runs much smoother overall.
3. Aquamark increased specially CPU score now increased to over 8000+ without OC whereas previously I could only get 7800 max.
4. The current discharged on battery now reduces down to 17.99 where as previous would be around 18.9, so guess it uses less current and means more battery life.
Ok, nice to know :)

Oh the subject of battery life, I noticed that my battery already has an 18% wear, so no wonder it can never last over 3 hrs. It states 64680W full capacity, but on max charge it says 53038W so I am lossing 18% of juice max time now is around 2hrs + :mad:
There's a 1 year warranty on the battery I think, so I suggest that you contact Acer for a replacement.

[rain_director]

rain director r u using NTI CD maker or some other software?


Yes I'm using NTI

[snorre]

X-bit labs reviews the Acer Ferrari 3200 and compares it to the Asus A4S00K here:
http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/mobile/display/acer-ferrari.html

[rain_director]

There's a buzz, HP is going to come out with their own WilliamsBMW notebook :-)

[snorre]

I made and posted this the other day and after checking out the drivers for the 3200 they look identical - if someone with a 3200 could try this, I would be keen to update support:

------------------------------------------------------------
Modded BCM Tray Icons for Acer Ferrari 3000 V1.0 (06.07.04)
by lotech (www.lotech.co.nz)
------------------------------------------------------------

I hated the icons that came with the Wireless Tray util installed on my laptop so I thought I better do some tweaking. The replaced icons use Apples wireless icons (and as a result I can take no credit for their design) - but damn if they don't look better. No more cryptic colour scheme to show the signal strength. It is based on V3.30.15.0 of the Config utility.


INSTALLATION
1. Close any wireless services you have Open and disable you WIFI card under
Control Panel / Network Connections.
2. Rename c:\windows\system32\bcmwltry.exe to something else (such as bcmwltry_old.exe)
3. Extract zip contents to this c:\windows\system32
4. Restart, enable WI-FI & enjoy.

PROBLEMS
There shouldn't be any issues as is just a hacked version of the only version of this available. As usual if you break something beyond belief I take no responsability for your problems - although I doubt this will happen.

FUTURE
More support for other Acer Laptops with the same wifi card - chances are it works with these now. If anyone tries it please email me so I can add it to the listed supported models.

PREVIEW
http://www.lotech.co.nz/images/preview.jpg

DOWNLOAD HERE (http://www.lotech.co.nz/ferrari3000%20wifimodv1.zip) (73kb)
This works perfectly on my Acer Ferrari 3200, great work! :dude:

I've also added this to my list of drivers & utilities here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=403768#post403768

[snorre]

I've updated my performance tweak guide and added some hard drive performance tweaks here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=455976#post455976

I've also added some advanced options to my battery life tweak guide here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=458650#post458650

Enjoy! :cheers:

[algirdas2004]

This works perfectly on my Acer Ferrari 3200, great work! :dude:

Hm, I didn't find the bcmwltry.exe file in my windows folder. I have Ferrari 3200. My Wifi card works fine. I managed to get the icon only by double-clicking on the extracted executable, but the old icon does not disappear, i.e. I have two icons for wireless! :)

What am I doing wrong?

[snorre]

Hm, I didn't find the bcmwltry.exe file in my windows folder. I have Ferrari 3200. My Wifi card works fine. I managed to get the icon only by double-clicking on the extracted executable, but the old icon does not disappear, i.e. I have two icons for wireless! :)

What am I doing wrong?
They've removed the Broadcom WLAN Tray utility from the newest driver packs, but you can get it back by installing an older one like this one:
http://www.averatec.com/customercare/files/3200_Drivers/AE64002.EXE

And then upgrade the driver with the newest one available:
ftp://ftp.compaq.com/pub/softpaq/sp29001-29500/SP29361.exe

Ok? :)

[Fight Club]

hi again. i just wanted to ask if anybody fix or knows a way for using other regions of DVDs with shrink.
and that my cursor do the same and to me sometimes,
it appers above left, or down left.

[flush]

Anyone having issues with the PC Card slot?

I am trying to read a Compact Flash card in a CF PC Card Reader.

It comes up and XP SP2 is busy trying to load drivers for it and then errors saying that this driver is incorrect for the version of Windows.

[Marcelo_Yu]

Hi everyone!!
First of all I want to thank all of you for all the useful information that helped decide to buy the ACER Ferrari 3200. The lapie is awesome!!!
It has been 4 months that I have me Ferrari and I think it's time to upgrade some hardware. I've been reading that most of you upgraded your hard drive to Hitachi Travelstar 7k60. Can anybody tell me if the Travelstar 7k60 is noisier that the factory hard drive??
Thanks!!

[Marcelo_Yu]

Anyone having issues with the PC Card slot?

I am trying to read a Compact Flash card in a CF PC Card Reader.

It comes up and XP SP2 is busy trying to load drivers for it and then errors saying that this driver is incorrect for the version of Windows.

I dont think you can read Compact Flash in the Ferrari 3200. The only supported onces are Memory Stick, SmartMedia, Secure Digital and Multimedia

[waxinator]

I dont think you can read Compact Flash in the Ferrari 3200. The only supported onces are Memory Stick, SmartMedia, Secure Digital and Multimedia

I had the same thought... but Flush must have a Compact Flash adapter connected in the PCMCIA slot at the left of the Ferrari... I think his question ain't a Ferrari question but a general WindowsXP driver problem.

By the way !!! I just installed 2GB of memory "Corsair Value DDR-DIMM PC3200" and disabled all disk-paging :banana: and it works just dandy :banana: /Waxi

[snorre]

and that my cursor do the same and to me sometimes,
it appers above left, or down left.
Check your Touchpad settings in the control panel under Mouse->Device Settings->Settings...

[snorre]

Can anybody tell me if the Travelstar 7k60 is noisier that the factory hard drive??
Thw Hitachi Travelstar 7K60 is actually quieter than the factory installed hard drive. You can even adjust the acoustic mode of the drive with Feature Tool (http://www.hitachigst.com/hdd/support/download.htm) that is included on the Ultimate Boot CD (http://www.ultimatebootcd.com/).

[snorre]

By the way !!! I just installed 2GB of memory "Corsair Value DDR-DIMM PC3200" and disabled all disk-paging :banana: and it works just dandy :banana:
Great, then we've got confirmed that this and Kingston ValueRAM PC3200 (KVR400X64SC3A/1G) 1GB SO-DIMM sticks works without problems :)

[snorre]

I think you'll find this t-break article very interesting:
http://www.tbreak.com/reviews/article.php?cat=cpu&id=350&pagenumber=1
Today we take a look at the improvement in performance as you add more memory to your system. We took a Ferrari 3200 notebook that has a reasonable amount of features such as a 128MB Radeon 9700 VGA card and an Athlon64 2800+. This particular notebook is targeted towards the high-end sector and thus came with 2x256MB memory modules. We’ve benchmarked this notebook with 256MB, 512MB and 1GB RAM in our standard suite of benchmarks.

[Marcelo_Yu]

Thw Hitachi Travelstar 7K60 is actually quieter than the factory installed hard drive. You can even adjust the acoustic mode of the drive with Feature Tool (http://www.hitachigst.com/hdd/support/download.htm) that is included on the Ultimate Boot CD (http://www.ultimatebootcd.com/).

Thanks snorre for the info. I think I will buy the travelstar 7k60.

By the way, does anybody know how to make Windows XP stop powering the USB when the Ferrari goes to stand by? The reason that I'm asking is because I have an external USB fan (Antec FanPal) conected to the lappie and when I set the machine to stand by, the fan keeps running. This doesn't happen with my old old HP laptop using Windows 98 SE.
Thanks!

[Marcelo_Yu]

Just a curiosity, does anybody know if we can download an update of the Ferrari calendar/wallpaper from ACER in a near future? Because mine only gets to March 2005.
I think the Ferrari wallpaper is just so cool!!! :dude: :dude:
Does the Ferrari 3400 wallpaper reach further than March 2005? If so, could anybody please send a couple of wallpapers to me??
Thanks in adcance!!

[dr.cura]

Great Link for the new Ferrari users.
Tanks Snorre...As allways

[lulazz]

Hi,
I just got my ferrari 3400 and i find it quite slow
some times it takes ages just to switch from one window to another
I have office and Norton corprate installed and at the moment I am only using it to read emails and browsing internet

Is there anything I can do to improve it?

ALso if I install xp x64 are performances going to be better?

Thanks any help apreciated
Ciao
Luca

[snorre]

Just a curiosity, does anybody know if we can download an update of the Ferrari calendar/wallpaper from ACER in a near future? Because mine only gets to March 2005.
I think the Ferrari wallpaper is just so cool!!! :dude: :dude:
I agree, it's very nice.

You'll find screensaver & wallpapers over at Ferrari World (requires subscription) here:
http://ferrariworld.com/FWorld/fw/communit...jsp?language=en (http://ferrariworld.com/FWorld/fw/community/screenSaver.jsp?language=en)

Does the Ferrari 3400 wallpaper reach further than March 2005?
Not as far as I know, but I assume that the next model will come with an updated version.

[snorre]

I just got my ferrari 3400 and i find it quite slow
some times it takes ages just to switch from one window to another
I have office and Norton corprate installed and at the moment I am only using it to read emails and browsing internet

Is there anything I can do to improve it?
Something is obviously wrong with your setup as it obviously isn't supposed to be slow, so I suggest that you check everything.

ALso if I install xp x64 are performances going to be better?
Yes, but even the normal Windows XP should run without any problems.

[snorre]

I've extended the Acer Ferrari Wallpaper calendar for all of 2005 by editing the wallpapers from 2004. Download the update here:
http://rasmus.uib.no/~stud1393/Ferrari2005.zip

Just extract the contents of the zipped file into the C:\Program Files\FerrariWallPaper\Ferrari2005\ directory and enjoy! :cheers:

[Marcelo_Yu]

Thanks a lot snorre for the wallpapers!!!! Your the Best!!! :cheers: :dude:

[waxinator]

Thanks a lot snorre for the wallpapers!!!! Your the Best!!! :cheers: :dude:
:banana: Ageree :cheers: I wonder what :santa: might bring for next year :banana:

[richarddesmond]

:banana: Ageree :cheers: I wonder what :santa: might bring for next year :banana:

Hello to you all! i am a newbie...be gentle. I bought a secondhand Ferrari 3200 (6 months old) on ebay, 1300 Euros,Targus case included,it is super! It is the lappy with the best specs as far as I am concerned. Would like some advice, sent you an email Snorre, but since realised that you have so selflessly given your time, that it is unfair to expect an individual reply. I sat up till 5am the other morning reading the threads, I think I may go back and read 'cover to cover' and take notes. Ran through your guide to tweek the system, i am totally non techie, so appreciate the simple instructions, I have shadowmages guide here too. I am hoping you can all give me a bit of help. Here is a cut and paste of my original mail to Snorre
Hi,
Saw your list of drivers, don't really know what they do. Do they complement win XPHome, or replace. Also perhape you could give a bit of advice, just bought a 3200, 6 months old, 1300 Euros, standard spec. My use is H2 and downloading digital video image onsite (ie battery) and playing it back on battery power, to show my customers what they are paying for, would like to get the best quality I can out of battery power, and will likely buy a spare, so battery time will be less of an issue.

Yours,

Nik

Also can anyone tell me how to actaully look at what speed my proccessor has been tweeked too?
Thanks in advance, this is a great forum and a great Lappy! :headbang: :headbang: :headbang:

[waxinator]

Also can anyone tell me how to actaully look at what speed my proccessor has been tweeked too?
There are no differenses concerning drivers between WinXP Pro and WinXP Home.

There are several tools to measure PC performance. "AMD PowerNow Dashboard" is the right tool for you in order to monitor battery / CPU performance. You will notice how CPU frequency and voltage changes in order to save battery. Test different settings using <Fn> - <F3>.

"CPU-Z" from www.cpuid.com displays your hardware status, BUT it displays the LOW voltage and CPU frequency instead of the actual top levels if you run in "Battery saving" mode.

"FreshDiagnose" from www.freshdevice.com show ALL you ever want to know about your PC. It includes Benchmark tests.

[richarddesmond]

Seemed to have done the business with Shadowmages idiots guide for tweaking, Snorres guide to overclocking, though they don't seem to quite go together, as Snorres is 'always on' for power settings, whereas Shadowmages is 'max battery' I supose I am being too greedy, snores overclocking guide is to get more power,not to increase battery life.
Here are my results from Shadowmages guide:-
1) 5X at 0.800V = 1002.26mhz
2) 7X at 0.925V = 1403.11mhz
3) 10X at 1.100V = 1804.00mhz
4) 9X at 1.200V = 1853.36mhz (Snorre's overclock guide) :awdance:
5) 9X at 1.200V = 1804.00mhz (default setting)

If anyone notices anything dodgy about my settings PLEASE let me know ASAP, my maths is good, but my physics is terrible! I have set 1,2,3 on my desktop (with 1 as the startup setting) but with Snorres setting, he is using a different system to get the power (clockgen, dialling up HTT) Snorre, is it possible to input your settings through CrystalCPUID, then use the function to save them to the desktop? If so I would lose number 3, as there is little point have settings so close.

Questions
1) My 3200, is a bog standard system, does anyone have the same system and use a higher overclock than 1853mhz, without harm or seriuos heat issues? I am not greedy, just interested.
2)Can anyone tell me about the multiplier in Crystal CPUID? What is the function? If you use Shadowmages guide, he sets the multiplier at 10X, then reduces voltage, Snorre stays with 9X. My thought is that LOW NUMBERS GOOD (Uuughh, Neanderthal Physics!) If all settings were the same except 10X vs 9X is there any difference in performance or only in consumption? (I am pretty sure Snprre is going to say "see my guide"..... if so, my apologies Snorre, I must have missed a bit!! :scratch:
3)Important... Can't find the Wattage for the original settings i.e. 9X,1.200Volts,1804mhz, does anyone know this so I can use it to work out my powerconsumption for the other settings.
4)Even when my system is set to max power on battery, it still loses light in H2 ( I don't mind that) and FPS I can see the jerky movements, why is this? Is it that no matter what you do, the battery can't deliver even for a short time, what mains power can? It is playable, no complaints, just as always curious.
5)Finally, where can I get a good Cabbage for salad? What would the price be?

Nik

P.S Wax, thanks for the tips, though Fresh doesn't actually seem to have a register page, so on that I am catch 22.

[waxinator]

Fresh doesn't actually seem to have a register page, so on that I am catch 22.
??? Can't you get register page http://www.freshdevices.com/download.html ???
Try http://www.freshdevices.com/diagfile3.html

[waxinator]

4)Even when my system is set to max power on battery, it still loses light in H2, ...the battery can't deliver even for a short time, what mains power can? I hope you don't reffere to that the display dimms down when om battery ? ...because that's a power-saving default setting in BIOS. Use F2 at boot screen and change this setting.

[richarddesmond]

I hope you don't reffere to that the display dimms down when om battery ? ...because that's a power-saving default setting in BIOS. Use F2 at boot screen and change this setting.


No, that is O.K, I don't mind a dim screen,i think that a wise power saving option, which makes so little diference to myplaying that I would prefer to leave it as is. i just wonder if the FPS is dropping on battery, even if I have set the lappy to go to full power?
Still wondering if anyone has a value for the 3200 wattage at default full power i.e. 1.8ghz. Read Snorre's comment about 35watts, but it sounded like he was talking about when the Lappy has powered down to 0.8ghz

Will try registration again later

Nik :awdance:

[waxinator]

i just wonder if the FPS is dropping on battery, even if I have set the lappy to go to full power? You are quite right about FPS going down when on battery. You can download www.aquamark3.com and verify your graphics.

When om Power I get: 3,308 / 7,987 / 27,405 (GFX / CPU / FPS) 450 / 210 (core / memory)
With tweaked Radlink: 3,710 / 8,010 / 30,125 (GFX / CPU / FPS) 474 / 252 (core / memory)
and when om battery: ...791 / 8,137 /...7,559 (GFX / CPU / FPS) 105 / 105 (core / memory)

THEN I noticed that the display settings in Windows reduced grafhic performance when on battery.
<advanced> - <Powerplay> - <Powerplay-settings>.
I changed battery settings to performance, and now there are NO degradation when running on battery. :mmm:

[richarddesmond]

just downloaded aquamark and tested at 1.853ghz,
mains I got3,810/7,786/30,615
battery(max battery) 3,021/7,816/25,313

However, I think that I will stick with 1.804ghz, because my machine has choked twice after running this test, clearly it doesn't like the heat,neither do I!

I noticed that both times after exiting aquamark, i then either removed the power cable or plugged it in, this shut down the machine, whats going on?

Can someone explain how to use speedfan, I would prefer more fan noise, than hot machine, shutdowns!

[richarddesmond]

That is odd, the problem with my 3200 shutting down, if I either plugged in the mains or unplugged the mains, happened as a result of installing acquamark. Now that I have uninstalled it, it seems to have stopped happening. Any explanations?

[snorre]

Snorre, is it possible to input your settings through CrystalCPUID, then use the function to save them to the desktop?
No, because you can't change the HTT clock in CrystalCPUID.

Questions
1) My 3200, is a bog standard system, does anyone have the same system and use a higher overclock than 1853mhz, without harm or seriuos heat issues? I am not greedy, just interested.
With 1.2V core voltage or higher you should be able to go beyond that clock speed, but it will get hotter the more you push it. A 220 HTT clock or 1980MHz should be within reach without causing any harm I think.

2)Can anyone tell me about the multiplier in Crystal CPUID? What is the function? If you use Shadowmages guide, he sets the multiplier at 10X, then reduces voltage, Snorre stays with 9X. My thought is that LOW NUMBERS GOOD (Uuughh, Neanderthal Physics!) If all settings were the same except 10X vs 9X is there any difference in performance or only in consumption? (I am pretty sure Snprre is going to say "see my guide"..... if so, my apologies Snorre, I must have missed a bit!! :scratch:
The CPU in the Acer Ferrari 3200 only support a maximum 9X multiplier, wheras the CPU in the Acer Ferrari 3400 supports a maximum 10X multiplier. The speed of the CPU depends on the HTT clock and the multiplier:

HTT clock x multiplier = CPU clock speed

Example: low-power Mobile Athlon 64 2800+

200 x 9.0 = 1800MHz

Get it now? You can use both CrystalCPUID & ClockGen to change the multiplier and the core voltage. A high overclock requires more power it's that simple really. If you want more battery life you do the exact opposite to overclocking and reduce the multiplier and the core voltage to reduce the power consumption.

3)Important... Can't find the Wattage for the original settings i.e. 9X,1.200Volts,1804mhz, does anyone know this so I can use it to work out my powerconsumption for the other settings.
That's approximately 35W at those settings during maximum load.

4)Even when my system is set to max power on battery, it still loses light in H2 ( I don't mind that) and FPS I can see the jerky movements, why is this? Is it that no matter what you do, the battery can't deliver even for a short time, what mains power can? It is playable, no complaints, just as always curious.
For maximum performance while running on battery power you should go to the Control Panel->Display->Settings->Advanced->POWERPLAY and uncheck Enable POWERPLAY, or click on the POWERPLAY Settings and make sure that both High & Low Battery are set to Optimal Performance. If you want to avoid losing light on the screen while running on the battery power then disable the LCD Auto Dim feature in the BIOS Main menu.

5)Finally, where can I get a good Cabbage for salad? What would the price be?
Try growing your own, that's pretty cheap ;)

[dr.cura]

Hi :
Someone installed the new Omega Drivers (05).
Performance?
Thanks :banana:

[bachler]

snorre, do you know what setting i should use in speedfan?
and yeah, btw, i upgraded to a 7k60 this weekend, its really fast...
and i got a usb2 external hdd case for my 80gb disk, but when i have it plugged in
the cpu fan is on all the time(when idle), and when i disconnect the usb disk the fan stops(if im not @ full load)...
i have checked the temps of the cpu and the 7k60 disk, and they are (idle) cpu:32 disk:49
and when i plug in the usb disk, they are (still idle) cpu:37 disk:50...
so anyway do you know whay settings i should use to control the fan in speedfan?
thanks //alexander

[notebooknewbie]

Hey everyone, question about the Acer Ferrari 3400 stock 80GB 4200RPM hard drive. I sold it on ebay and the guy who bought said that he's having trouble formatting because there is a partition(ESIS) that he can't delete. Can anyone give me any information regarding this? Thanks

[snorre]

snorre, do you know what setting i should use in speedfan?
and yeah, btw, i upgraded to a 7k60 this weekend, its really fast...
and i got a usb2 external hdd case for my 80gb disk, but when i have it plugged in the cpu fan is on all the time(when idle), and when i disconnect the usb disk the fan stops(if im not @ full load)...
i have checked the temps of the cpu and the 7k60 disk, and they are (idle) cpu:32 disk:49
and when i plug in the usb disk, they are (still idle) cpu:37 disk:50...
so anyway do you know whay settings i should use to control the fan in speedfan?
SpeedFan dosen't support the ICS 950405 clock generator yet, so you'll only be able to read the harddrive temperature. I also have an external Firewire/USB2.0 case for my old 80GB hard drive, but the CPU fan dosen't come on when mine is plugged in. Have you updated to the latest VIA Hyperion chipset drivers?
http://www.viaarena.com/default.aspx?PageID=2&Type=1

Hey everyone, question about the Acer Ferrari 3400 stock 80GB 4200RPM hard drive. I sold it on ebay and the guy who bought said that he's having trouble formatting because there is a partition(ESIS) that he can't delete. Can anyone give me any information regarding this? Thanks
I already answered your question here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=681475#post681475

[bachler]

ok, ill try that snorre, thanks

[Marcelo_Yu]

Does anybody know how to make Windows XP to stop powering the USB when the Ferrari goes to stand by? The reason that I'm asking is because I have an external USB fan (Antec FanPal) conected to the laptop and when I set the machine to stand by, the fan keeps running. This doesn't happen with my old old HP laptop using Windows 98 SE.
Thanks!

[rolo]

Hi guys,

I got my Ferrari 3400 a couple of weeks ago after reading all the great posts here and pretty much upgraded it to everything you guys recommended. So far, awesome! However, having Bluetooth Nokia6820 cellphone, Bluetooth Sony Ericsson HBH-60 headset, Bluetooth Sony Clie PalmOS pda, DConnex BT GPS and Widcomm BT sw on my desktop PC, I was quite disappointed with the Microsoft SP2 Bluettooth software and decided to do some investigation. I managed to install the latest Widcomm BT software, 4.0.1.7 and it's amazing! I can actually use the bluetooth headset with MSN messanger, I can use the Ferrari 3400 as a Bluetooth headset with my cellphone and Hotsync my Clie using Bluetooth. None of this was possible before except using the phone as an EDGE/GPRS modem and the DConnex GPS with Streets and Trips (a bit challenging to configure)!

Here is how:

1. Rename the file bth.inf to bth.bak in Windows/Inf (if you have XP SP2; it does not exist in XP SP1)
2. Download and install Install the Widcomm software from here:

http://www.mobidick.biz/download/bluetooth/bcu-btw4-0-1-700.zip

3. Download the patch files from here (you will have to register for free first):

http://forum.gsmhosting.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=179871

4. Unzip the patch files, reboot the Ferrari in Safe Mode and copy the patch files to the following locations locations:

c:\windows\system32 - btneighbourhood.dll & wbtapi.dll
c:\program files\widcomm\bluetooth software - bttray.exe & btstackserver.exe (you should be prompted to accept replacing existing ones).


5. Reboot the laptop. The Bluetooth tray icon should turn red (no device connected). Turn Bluetooth on. You will see the original Bluetooth icon in the System Tray too. Update your Bluetooth adapter in Device manager to use the files present in the Widcomm directory (where you unzipped the bcu-btw4-0-1-700.zip file), rather than those in the Windows directory. You can find instructions with screenshots here:

http://www.e-beam.com/support/Switching_from_MS_Driver_to_WIDCOMM.pdf

6. Double-click the "My bluetooth places" on your desktop to initiate the Bluetooth wizard and complete the installation.

I thank everyone in here for their great input, especially Snorre, and hope this posts will continue help improve these great laptops!

:cheers: ,

Rolo

:awdance:

[snorre]

rolo: Great guide! :cheers:

I find it lame that WIDCOMM require a license to use their drivers with Bluetooth devices. I couldn't get my Targus Bluetooth optical mini mouse working with the integrated Bluetooth on my Acer Ferrari 3200 using the WIDCOMM drivers that Acer provides, so I reinstalled Windows XP SP2 and managed to get the mouse working with the Microsoft Bluetooth drivers. Nice that someone cracked the WIDCOMM drivers to make them license free as they should be, and I'll install those if I experience any problems with the Microsoft drivers.

What benefits do the WIDCOMM drivers have over the Microsoft drivers?

[rolo]

With the latest Widcomm sw, you get the following features:

- Audio gateway (laptop can be used as a BT headset with BT phones)
- Dial-up Networking
- File transfer
- Serial port
- PIM transfer
- Bluetooth imaging (not sure what it does)
- BT Fax
- Headset (you can use a Bluetooth headset with the laptop, i.e msn, music,...)
- Network access (if you want to provide BT access to other BT devices)
PIM sync (for PDAs, like PalmOS)

Personally, I find it a lot better than Microsoft's. Before I upgraded, I couldn't even use Nokia PC Suite with my BT cellphone. I couldn't Hotsync my Sony Clie PDA either. I never really thought of using the BT headset with a laptop/PC, but once I got it working, it's actually really cool!

You have to see it working to realize the difference.

rolo

[kizmat]

Hi,

I own a Ferrari 3200 (which completely 0wN5, but that's besides the point).

I was wondering if anybody here has tried to use the IrDA port on the Ferrari as a remote control? Either for sending IR and controlling other devices like TVs, or for receiving commands to do something like control Winamp using a remote control.

I have looked all over the web, and tried several apps like PC Remote Control etc, but with absolutely zero luck! What I'm really interested is in letting the notebook receive IR commands for controlling Winamp, but nothing seems to work.

So please, if anybody has had any luck, reply to this post!!

[algirdas2004]

Hello everyone.

Does anyone know a good program to configure BIOS? A shop assistant told me my Ferrari 3200 might "hang" because of some incorrectly chosen options. The options provided by BIOS default program (entered during boot) are not enough.

Thanks!
Algirdas

[MadsD]

Does anyone know if Acer wants old AC adaptors back if the old one is broken? The price on a new one here in DK is pretty high!

[waxinator]

Hi guys,

However, having Bluetooth Nokia6820 cellphone, Bluetooth Sony Ericsson HBH-60 headset, Bluetooth Sony Clie PalmOS pda, DConnex BT GPS and Widcomm BT sw on my desktop PC, I was quite disappointed with the Microsoft SP2 Bluettooth software and decided to do some investigation.

I thank everyone in here for their great input, especially Snorre, and hope this posts will continue help improve these great laptops!
:cheers: ,
Rolo
:awdance:
Rolo !!! I couldn't be happier :awdance: :awdance: :awdance:

Not only have I got my Ferrari working much more reliable with these Bluetoth driver updates, :moon: BUT!!! :lol: I also got my stationary PC working with my old Trust USB-Bluetoth connector. The original Trust installation added a lot of ports that didn't work well at all. I also used a 3Com adapter that created another set of ports and was just as unusable and unreliable. NOW I have ALL my Bluetoth units talking to each others and I have at last got use of the Bluetoth world. :awdance: :cheers: :awdance:

[rolo]

Rolo !!! I couldn't be happier :awdance: :awdance: :awdance:

Not only have I got my Ferrari working much more reliable with these Bluetoth driver updates, :moon: BUT!!! :lol: I also got my stationary PC working with my old Trust USB-Bluetoth connector. The original Trust installation added a lot of ports that didn't work well at all. I also used a 3Com adapter that created another set of ports and was just as unusable and unreliable. NOW I have ALL my Bluetoth units talking to each others and I have at last got use of the Bluetoth world. :awdance: :cheers: :awdance:


Waxinator,

I'm glad I'm not the only one experiencing what Bluetooth can do on these Ferrari's! I'm posting this message while in the train using my phone as an EDGE modem. Awsome stuff!

:headbang:

:awdance: :awdance: :awdance:

[monologuist]

I haven't tweaked anything on my Ferrari 3200 for about 6 months...are there any new driver updates or apps that people can recommend that have come out in the last 6-8 months? I installed most of the ones that were on a comprehensive list posted on this thread at the time (6-8 months ago)....
thanks in advance!

[snorre]

are there any new driver updates or apps that people can recommend that have come out in the last 6-8 months?
See my post here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=403768#post403768

[philiphebert]

I am new to this site -- wish I'd seen it before! A TON of useful info!! I bought my Ferrari 3000 in Jan 04; had a Gig of RAM installed and it has worked like a charm...until yesterday when it crashed; told me i had a BIOS conflict and to re-start in safe mode. Unfortunately, it did not do this and after that I had no output to the screen at all. The only light that came on was the one indicating power source and, briefly, the DVD drive. I tried using my boot disc to no avail. ACER quoted me a price of about 500$ US to fix it. I've sent it in and hope, if it's the motherboard that's shot, that they can save my files. I do back up regularly but hadn't done so in a week...ah, by gum, what a bummer!! Any advice for the chagrined Ferrari owner? Time to move on? take it on the chin & keep the ACER? I'm considering instead to buy the Electrovaya 2200 tablet pc....

[silverdragun]

hi, i just installed windows 64 bit version. It is actually pretty good, it installs every hardware for you.

However, my Fn keys doesnt work now. Is there a program that runs behind to make the Fn keys to function? They are needed for volume adjustment.

Thx in advance

edited
it actually work, but the green display doesnt work
how do you make the green display to work also?

[shadinio]

hey philiphebert

i actually had the same problem a few months back, my friend who as another acer laptop also suffered from this problem for sometime. the problem is that it vanished just as mysteriously as it began. i kept rebooting and rebooting until i started gettin the bios screen then it would go off. after that i started getting the win xp screen then it would go off. eventually the next day it returned back to normal. i restored my laptop to the factory settings but that didnt actually solve anything. i had a lotta problems with my system folder and once i was turning it on it told me that the system 32 folder is corrupted or missing!!! the acer support finally installed a different win xp (other than the one on the restore cds) and now i haven't seen got that problem for some months. although i have the other messed up problem of the blue screen on cold cache boot. do u have that?

[shadinio]

btw guys i have checked that suspicious website having the 3A28 BIOS version and it says that it should solve the blue screen issue at cold boot but its written in such a bad english and the site seems so "unAcerish" that am actually afraid to update. but i would like to update the globally known 3A27 version. i just dont understand why some of you found it to be a bad thing when the fan kicks in at 40 degrees. i mean this laptop runs stove hot during a lan party that i believe the fan should kick in before it reaches 50. one last thing...am actually TERRIFIED at the idea of updating BIOS so plz guys tell me should i be scared? or should i just update it like am updating something as simple as the driver of a graphic card? i do know that any error in flashing reduces a mobo to a mere complicated sillicon switch!!! plz advise :)

[speedmunky]

shouldnt b scared to update ur bios... no worries... jus make sure u use ah crap 4got the name.. think its winplash, a bios update program.... the program stops if theres an error an reverts to the previous bios...

ive updated my 3200 to 3A28.... the frequent blue screens are now pretty much not happening... so its all good... hope this helps

[shadinio]

thx a lot speedmunky i have winphlash and 3A28 but i've always been afraid to do that step into the "otherside"!!! and since you say that the bluescreens are vanishing i think am gonna gather my bolz and do it! thx a lot dude!

[algirdas2004]

Hi guys,

I've just found that Microsoft has already accepted inquiries to receive the Win XP 64-bit version for free (except the shipping costs). :cheers: Well, in the website (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/upgrade/default.mspx) it says:
Since many of our partners are taking part in this program, you should check with your PC manufacturer to see if they support the exchange on your x64 computer. If they support the program, your PC manufacturer will be able to provide you with a CD that includes all of the right drivers and software specific to your computer.
Does anyone know if Acer is one of such partners? Is there any possibility to obtain the new Win version from them?

I hope so much that the 64-bit graphics drivers will suit my Ferrari and will solve the problems I've been having for a couple of months...

[RedSky009]

hi, i just installed windows 64 bit version. It is actually pretty good, it installs every hardware for you.

However, my Fn keys doesnt work now. Is there a program that runs behind to make the Fn keys to function? They are needed for volume adjustment.

Thx in advance

edited
it actually work, but the green display doesnt work
how do you make the green display to work also?

qtziacer.exe or the Acer Launch Utility is what controls the green stuff when you use the Fn and shortcut buttons, you need to find a 64bit version of this proggie to get them back

[shadinio]

i once read about a dispute between amd and intel (wats new!) i dont remember the whole story but i think the bottom line was that Acer wouldn't be one of such partners who would supply us with a free copy of win xp 64bit because the Ferrari series laptops r AMD based...
hopefully i am wrong about that! :p

[snorre]

Free upgrade to Windows XP Professional x64 Edition from Windows XP Professional (32-bit):
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/upgrade/default.mspx

[dcranford]

Snoore

Do you have any info on a new ferrari with the turion processor?

When should we expect it? Specs? X700?

[billsfootball02]

Are those of you running 64-bit xp seeing any performance increases?

[fskidd]

Hi Snorre!
Have you upgraded your cpu to the latest Turion 25W version?If yes,would you please post a guide here? I would like to upgrade it also.

Btw, do you know where I can buy the Turion cpu in europe?Thanks!

[blackfrancis]

Free upgrade to Windows XP Professional x64 Edition from Windows XP Professional (32-bit):
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/upgrade/default.mspx

It asks for my credit card information. That means they are charging me..
Is it just a delivery charge? How much is it?

[monologuist]

anyone else running windows 64 on their Ferrari? comments? Also, for 7200 rpm or faster notebook drives, what's the current highest capacity? recommendations?

and what's this I hear that there's a new 64 bit processor for the Ferrari? How fast is it compared to the one in the 3200, and is it also low-powered/mobile?

[algirdas2004]

anyone else running windows 64 on their Ferrari? comments? Also, for 7200 rpm or faster notebook drives, what's the current highest capacity? recommendations?

and what's this I hear that there's a new 64 bit processor for the Ferrari? How fast is it compared to the one in the 3200, and is it also low-powered/mobile?

Yes, indeed. Turion is a new 64-bit offer from AMD. As far as I know, it's working at 1.6 GHz and its power is ONLY 35W (as compared to 60W of current AMD 64-bit processors). Seems like a very attractive competitor for the Intel's Centrino...

I'm also looking for a hard drive of speed of 7200 rpm+ and, say, 60 GB for my Ferrari 3200. Does anyone know any bearable offers?

Thanks!

[snorre]

Snoore

Do you have any info on a new ferrari with the turion processor?

When should we expect it? Specs? X700?
Yes, see here:
http://www.laptoplogic.com/news/05/12/2005/229/0/
The new Acer Ferrari 4000 will soon be announced this month, featuring the AMD Turion 64 processor and ATI MOBILITY RADEON X700 GPU. This site (http://publish.it168.com/2005/0511/20050511505301.shtml?positioncode=988) unveiled two images shown below, and according to the report the outer covering is made from carbon fiber. This is indeed hot!
http://www.laptoplogic.com/images/news_cont/229/ferarri1.jpg
http://www.laptoplogic.com/images/news_cont/229/ferrari2.jpg

[snorre]

Are those of you running 64-bit xp seeing any performance increases?
Yes, everything feels more smoother if you know what I mean. Besides I can play 64-bit Far Cry now:
http://www.amd.com/farcry

Hi Snorre!
Have you upgraded your cpu to the latest Turion 25W version? If yes,would you please post a guide here? I would like to upgrade it also.
Not yet, but I'm considering one of these options; Turion 64 MT-37 (2.0GHz, 25W TDP) or Turion ML-40 (2.2GHz, 35W TDP).

Btw, do you know where I can buy the Turion cpu in europe?Thanks!
No, but I expect to see them advertised on several online webshops as soon as Turion 64 comes generally available.

It asks for my credit card information. That means they are charging me..
Is it just a delivery charge? How much is it?
It's just a delivery charge, but I don't know how much it is. It could vary from place to place I guess.

anyone else running windows 64 on their Ferrari? comments? Also, for 7200 rpm or faster notebook drives, what's the current highest capacity? recommendations?
I recommend the new Hitachi Travelstar 7K100 with 100GB capacity or the previous model, Hitachi Travelstar 7K60 with 60GB capacity.

and what's this I hear that there's a new 64 bit processor for the Ferrari? How fast is it compared to the one in the 3200, and is it also low-powered/mobile?
It's called Turion 64 and is a new processor series with even lower power consumption than low-power Mobile Athlon 64 due to PowerNow! C3 Deeper sleep state support. Turion 64 MT-37, Turion 64 ML-37 & Turion ML-40 should all perform better than the low-power Mobile Athlon 64 2800+ in the Acer Ferrari 3200. See here for more details about these processors:
http://www.amd.com/us-en/Processors/ProductInformation/0,,30_118_12651,00.html

[Aysar]

Called and emailed acer about getting some 64 bit drivers before i upgrade! this was their reply :
"If you are trying to upgrade to an Operating system that we did not provide then we cannot provide support for it.
As we did not supply that operating system we do not have drivers for it, we can only suggest you check with the manufacturers of the individual components that you require drivers for. "

Any ideas where we can get the drives, dont want to get stuck with a useless machine!

[fskidd]

I'm also looking for a hard drive of speed of 7200 rpm+ and, say, 60 GB for my Ferrari 3200. Does anyone know any bearable offers?



I have sent you a private message regarding this issue.

[snorre]

Any ideas where we can get the drives, dont want to get stuck with a useless machine!
You'll find all the 64-bit drivers for Windows x64 you need on this page:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=620381#post620381

[snorre]

Wallpaper update for Acer Ferrari 3200/3400:
http://www.acerpanam.com/synapse/forms/portal.cfm?recordid=2321&formid=3394&website=AcerPanAm.com/us&originwebsite=acerpanam.com&central=1&words=All&keywords=ferrari&pupv=pu
This wallpaper update extends the Ferrari's calendar programs ability to update the calendar until March 2006
Get it HERE (https://www.synapsenow.com/synapse/data/7117/documents/FW_Updater.zip).

[askimball]

:D
I have a Acer Ferrari 3400. Has anybody tried or did a upgrade to a faster CPU on it. ???
Regards
Alan :scratch:

[snorre]

I have a Acer Ferrari 3400. Has anybody tried or did a upgrade to a faster CPU on it. ???
Not that I know of, since it already uses the fastest low-power Mobile Athlon 64 CPU available. I assume it's compatible with Turion 64 CPUs as well, so it should be quite possible to upgrade it with a Turion 64 MT/ML-37 (2.0GHz, 1MB L2, 25/35W) or Turion 64 ML-40 (2.2GHz, 1MB L2, 35W).

[Squadra T]

Hi all,

I am about to purchase a second hand Acer Ferrari 3200.
Some questions.
First thing I will do is format it and install windows xp pro (since it has xp home installed by default).

I've read somewhere in the forums here that someone had problems installing the drivers from acer's website on XP Pro? Is this true?

Will I be able to re-install the ferrari wallpaper/calendar software? In other words, can I find it seperatly on the recovery-cd's or download it somewhere?

Are there any known issues formatting a 3200 and installing XP Pro on it?

Thanks in advance.

[snorre]

I've read somewhere in the forums here that someone had problems installing the drivers from acer's website on XP Pro? Is this true?
Not at all. You'll find more updated drivers here:
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=403768#post403768

Will I be able to re-install the ferrari wallpaper/calendar software? In other words, can I find it seperatly on the recovery-cd's or download it somewhere?
You'll find it's on the included system CD, and you'll find the upgrade as well as the Ferrari startup sound on the link above.

Are there any known issues formatting a 3200 and installing XP Pro on it?
Only that you'll loose the Ferrari startup sound, that's unfortunately not included on the system CD. However, as I've already mentioned, you'll find a copy of it in the link above.

[algirdas2004]

I've read somewhere in the forums here that someone had problems installing the drivers from acer's website on XP Pro? Is this true?
Yes, indeed the drivers on Acer's website are rather crappy. Fortunately, Snorre has compiled an awesome list of websites for any driver you might think of for your Ferrari 3200. Also, if you decide to upgrade your XP to 64-bit version, Snorre has something to offer as well... :)

Will I be able to re-install the ferrari wallpaper/calendar software? In other words, can I find it seperatly on the recovery-cd's or download it somewhere?
Yes, the wallpaper/calendar software is in the System CD provided with the laptop. Also, check this forum (some posts before) for a link to the newest wallpapers - ther're really great! :cheers:

Are there any known issues formatting a 3200 and installing XP Pro on it?
Well, I've formatted mine several times already and did not notice anything special.
And, by the way, congrat's! Great purchase! :cheers:
Algirdas

[snorre]

Called and emailed acer about getting some 64 bit drivers before i upgrade! this was their reply :
"If you are trying to upgrade to an Operating system that we did not provide then we cannot provide support for it.
As we did not supply that operating system we do not have drivers for it, we can only suggest you check with the manufacturers of the individual components that you require drivers for. "
Check this out:
http://csd.acer.com.tw/SI/Download2.nsf/1815c7c6f8aff65d48256bdd0035cffd/0caa9d11b368b462482570040035f744?OpenDocument
WinXP Pro 64bit Drivers for F3400
Product Line: Notebook Model Name: Ferrari 3400
Project Name: Hoopoe-F 3 Posted Date: 2005/05/17
Category: Others Subject: WinXP Pro 64bit Drivers for F3400
Type: WinXP Pro 64bit
Release Date: 2005/05/17
No download link is provided yet, but it definately seems like Acer is finally supplying drivers for this operating system after all :cheers:

[Squadra T]

And, by the way, congrat's! Great purchase! :cheers:
Algirdas

thanks, but I don't have it yet, It seems like I'm going to win an online auction for a ferrari 3200 on an ebay-alike website.

by the way, do you guys think it is ok to spend about 1500 euros (1,882.72 USD) for a 3200, knowing that a new 3400 currently costs about 2000 euros (2510 USD) overhere in Belgium and that acer is about to launch the ferrari 4000?

My argument for still spending money on the 3200 would be that there doesn't seem to be much difference with the 3400 and I can use the extra money for a hard drive upgrade.

[richarddesmond]

thanks, but I don't have it yet, It seems like I'm going to win an online auction for a ferrari 3200 on an ebay-alike website.

by the way, do you guys think it is ok to spend about 1500 euros (1,882.72 USD) for a 3200, knowing that a new 3400 currently costs about 2000 euros (2510 USD) overhere in Belgium and that acer is about to launch the ferrari 4000?

My argument for still spending money on the 3200 would be that there doesn't seem to be much difference with the 3400 and I can use the extra money for a hard drive upgrade.


Hey Man,

I never tire of saying my 3200 cost 1300 Euros secondhand, mint condition, free Targus skin case, 3months ago, so there are some good deals out there (got mine off ebay, be careful of people trying to get you to wire money, don't do it!!!)

I can't see that 0.2ghz extra processor is really going to make a difference, i have clocked mine up to 1.95ghz a few times anyway. Faster hard drive is near essential , as mine runs like a granny. Still waiting on info about the new Hitachi 7K100 drives, I WANT ONE!

I have had no problems at all with mine, so they seem pretty solid, unless you mess them about. :cheers:

[Squadra T]

OK someone overbid me that auction in the final hour, but I'm happy he / she ded :p

Reason: I found a store not far from my work where they sell the ferrari 3400 for 1570 euros, if had placed an extra bid on that auction, that second hand 3200 would have cost me 1550 euro. So I think I did a pretty good deal :dude:

Anyhow, If all goes fine, the 3400 should be delivered tomorrow. Can't wait because I wanted an Acer Ferrari ever since they first released the 3000.

Maybe this belongs in the 3400 topic, but can anyone recommend a good (faster) hard drive for the 3400 based on experiences?

[snorre]

Maybe this belongs in the 3400 topic, but can anyone recommend a good (faster) hard drive for the 3400 based on experiences?
I recommend the Hitachi Travelstar 7K60 60GB 7200RPM hard drive, but there's a newer and better 100GB version available soon called Hitachi Travelstar 7K100.

[Squadra T]

thanks for the advise, will that drive be cooler too ? I heard the ferrari 3400 gets really warm after an hour or so.

[snorre]

thanks for the advise, will that drive be cooler too ? I heard the ferrari 3400 gets really warm after an hour or so.
Yes, a couple of degrees Celcius cooler at least. The hard drives in all Acer notebooks are only passively cooled, so for prolonged disk activity any drive will run hot eventually.

[fskidd]

Hi Snorre,

The 2800+ cpu of the ferrari 3200 is C0 stepping while the Turion 64 is E0 stepping. Hence, to upgrade the cpu, the bios should support the E0 stepping. How can I know whether the Ferrari 3200 BIOS support E0 stepping? Otherwise, we can't upgrade the cpu to Turion.

[snorre]

The 2800+ cpu of the ferrari 3200 is C0 stepping while the Turion 64 is E0 stepping. Hence, to upgrade the cpu, the bios should support the E0 stepping. How can I know whether the Ferrari 3200 BIOS support E0 stepping? Otherwise, we can't upgrade the cpu to Turion.
The Ferrari 3400 BIOS works perfectly on the Ferrari 3200 too, and that BIOS supports D0 stepping at least. The 2800+ CPU of the Ferrari 3200 is a CG stepping "Odessa" core (130nm), while the 3000+ CPU of the Ferrari 3400 is a D0 stepping "Oakville" core (90nm). As far as I know, all motherboards compatible with the D0 stepping should also be compatible with the new E0 stepping, but we won't know for sure unless someone tries a Turion 64 CPU in a Ferrari 3200/3400...

[fskidd]

The Ferrari 3400 BIOS works perfectly on the Ferrari 3200 too, and that BIOS supports D0 stepping at least. The 2800+ CPU of the Ferrari 3200 is a CG stepping "Odessa" core (130nm), while the 3000+ CPU of the Ferrari 3400 is a D0 stepping "Oakville" core (90nm). As far as I know, all motherboards compatible with the D0 stepping should also be compatible with the new E0 stepping, but we won't know for sure unless someone tries a Turion 64 CPU in a Ferrari 3200/3400...

But the reply from ACER is:

Thank you for contacting Acer America. The BIOS update does not support the latest Turion CPU.?Unlike desktop computers, the internal components of
the Acer notebook computers are not upgradeable or modifiable.?This would
include sound, video card/video ram, motherboard, CPU, etc. As Acer can
provide assistance on the notebook as it ships from the factory, I'm sorry
I?am unable to assist with this issue.

[golem]

here's something fun.. spielburg uses a ferrari on the set of war of the worlds
http://a1112.g.akamai.net/7/1112/492/20040528/www.wired.com/wired/archive/13.06/images/FF_129_wotw4_f.jpg

http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/13.06/war.html

[snorre]

Check this out folks:
http://global.acer.com/support/windows/winxp-professional-x64.htm
Important Information About Acer Technology Advancement Program for Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition

Program Features:
Technology Advancement Software
Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition

Things To Know Before You Upgrade to Windows Microsoft Windows XP:

1. The link below is to provide access for Acer's customers to upgrade the new version of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. This Windows XP Professional x64 Edition is not provided by Acer. Microsoft is the proprietary owner of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, while Mentor Media Ltd is the Authorized Replicator designated by Microsoft . Acer thus assumes no kinds of warranties regarding the Windows XP Professional x64 Edition and will not provide corresponding application programs for the Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. Acer might provide you with relevant technical support or troubleshooting services at the then current charge designated by each local service center.
2. By participating in this program, your 32-bit version of Windows XP Professional will no longer be licensed.
3. The installation of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition requires you to format your hard drive. You must back up your files and settings prior to the installation or they will be erased. Neither Acer nor Microsoft is liable for any loss of data as a result of this installation.
4. Windows XP Professional requires 64-bit hardware drivers (32-bit drivers are not supported). Drivers for 64-bit Windows are created at the discretion of hardware manufacturers and may not be available for some of your hardware components.

Procedure:
Access the link below and submit your order for Technology Advancement Software. The forementioned Authorized Replicator, Mentor Media Ltd., will charge you for the costs of Shipping and Handling and you have to pay by credit card between April 25, 2005 to July 31, 2005. Shipment will be prepared no later than August 31, 2005. Once you submit the order, you can not cancel it. No refund will be provided after the order is submitted.

Contact at Mentor Media Ltd. Singapore
Angeline Khoo Tel: +65 68963 796
Paul Wang Tel: +65 68963 854
Escalation:
Yap Rueh Herng Tel: +65 6896 3856
Email : ms64support@mmedia.mis.com.sg

The Following Models Are Eligible To Participate In Acer Technology Advancement Program With No Issue:

To download the drivers, please click on the desktop or notebook models listed below:
[...]
Notebooks
Ferrari 3200 Ferrari 3400 Aspire 1520

Contact Us:
We recommend you to consult with Acer's service center before you order the Windows XP Professional x64 Edition.

Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition is available online at:
https://dc.mis.com.sg/acer/xp_pro

[snorre]

here's something fun.. spielburg uses a ferrari on the set of war of the worlds

http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/13.06/war.html
Cool, great find! :cheers:

It's Dan Gregoire, Pre-Visualization Effects Supervisor at JAK Films, a division of Lucasfilm, that's depicted besides Steven Spielberg there with his Acer Ferrari laptop:

Spielberg became a convert when he met pre-viz specialist Dan Gregoire at George Lucas' Skywalker Ranch in 2003. Gregoire was midway through Revenge of the Sith when he and his team got PCs equipped with AMD's new 64-bit Opteron microprocessor. Suddenly they were able to pre-viz a sequence of shots in an hour instead of several days. Lucas ended up looking over Gregoire's shoulder and making changes on the spot, almost as if he were directing actors on a set. So when Spielberg signed on to make War of the Worlds, one of his first calls went to Gregoire.

For War of the Worlds, Gregoire took real-time pre-viz on the road. "This backpack is my office," he says, sitting in a tent near Spielberg's and holding up a black nylon bag stuffed with gear: a Titanium PowerBook G4, a bright red Opteron-equipped Acer Ferrari laptop, 60- and 250-gigabyte FireWire drives, and a Sony PD100 digital camcorder. Last August, when they were scouting locations on the East Coast, Gregoire would climb into a chopper to photograph potential sites from the air and then take measurements on the ground. Back at Spielberg's house in the Hamptons, he'd reconstruct these environments on his laptop. In September, he moved into an office near Spielberg's at Universal Studios and, with the director at his side, mapped out key sequences. At that point, Spielberg himself took over.

"Once all the info goes into the hard drive, I'm able to take a mouse and fly the set," Spielberg says. "I can do a 3-D cyberspace location hunt and nail my angles. If I want to move the camera 50 feet into the building, all of a sudden we're doing that. I would have pre-vizzed this picture even if it had been a 2006 release - but I would not have made this release date had I not pre-vizzed the picture."
Dan Gregoire is obviously a major fan of AMD64 technology, just check out this very interesting interview of him regarding the making of Star Wars Episode III:
http://www.bit-tech.net/bits/2005/05/24/amd_lucas_starwars/1.html

But the reply from ACER is:

Thank you for contacting Acer America. The BIOS update does not support the latest Turion CPU.?Unlike desktop computers, the internal components of
the Acer notebook computers are not upgradeable or modifiable.?This would
include sound, video card/video ram, motherboard, CPU, etc. As Acer can
provide assistance on the notebook as it ships from the factory, I'm sorry
I?am unable to assist with this issue.
Well, mjassbong actually managed to upgrade his Acer Ferrari 3400 with a Athlon 64 DTR 3700+ (2.4GHz, 1MB L2, 81.5W):
http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=915722

Now that we know that this is possible I'm pretty sure a Turion 64 upgrade shouldn't be a much of a problem at all :bouncy:

[fskidd]

Snorre, is it a requirement to fresh the 3200 BIOS into 3400 if we want to upgrade the cpu to Turion?Have you done that before or anyone else have done it?Refreshing a BIOS into different model may be a risk and I would like to confirm it before doing that.

What's the stepping of 3700+ DTR? Is it also 90nm?

From this link
http://csd.acer.com.tw/SI/Download2.nsf/1815c7c6f8aff65d48256bdd0035cffd/0caa9d11b368b462482570040035f744?OpenDocument

It seems that the 3A28 BIOS is suitable for 3400 also.Does it mean that this BIOS support the 90nm cpu?

[shadinio]

hey all,
i was thinking about upgrading my hd on my ferrari 3200 seeing as how am living in lebanon, the top choice for me was Western Digital hardisk 80GB 5400 rpm. i've read that all of u r recommending hitachi travelstar series but theres no way i could get my hands on one...so i was wondering does anyone know if the Western Digital one would be a good choice?

[Kerith]

These posts sure are interesting :)
And Snorre, you're awesome, I love the guide man, it helps out. :cheers:

I am using the latest Omega Drivers and it appears I can't run 3DMark2005 anymore. Rather odd, it says I don't have Pixel Shader 2.0 support! I was once quite proud of my *high* score of 1805, but strangely I can't even run the program. Anyway I was wondering if any other Ferrari 3200 users out there had this problem. On the Patje-modded cat 5.4s and 5.5s the problem persisted, but on the ancient acer-stock drivers it worked.

It angers me that companies don't pay attention to notebook users! We want updated drivers too! I heard a rumor on Rage3D that ATI is going to be making mobile catalysts-- but that was a while ago and I haven't seen anything.

Anyway, long live the Ferrari, and let's keep a-posting!

(Oh, Snorre, I had a question about the Advancement Program on the Ferrari 3400 thread, didn't realize you had posted it here, too. I figure if anyone knows, it'd be you!)

By the way, the highest Aquamark3 I got without overclocking was 30,192. Oddly enough these new Omega drivers dropped me back down to a little over 29k. :( Ah well, those benchmarks don't matter that much in the real world anyway. I think I'd love my Ferrari no matter what.

So if anyone knows about that pixel shader 2.0 problem, or what could cause it, I'd be quite thankful.

[skyc280]

Check this out folks:
http://global.acer.com/support/windows/winxp-professional-x64.htm

so the HDD partition will be gone?....has anyone ordered their x64 yet?

[NOX 3.2]

anybody knows if we can have a 3400 with 2 swappable HD, one for Windows XP and the other for Linux ?
will it work ok ?

thanks

ahh, & great forum btw :dude:

[Kerith]

so the HDD partition will be gone?....has anyone ordered their x64 yet?

I ordered it on April 26th. Come on Microsoft, pump out those CDs a little bit faster... I KNOW you have the ability! I heard end of May, can't get much closer to the end, and I'm sure they all have Memorial Day off. <begin impatient rant> At this rate it'll be time to upgrade to Longhorn :mad: ! <end impatient rant>

Oh well I'm sure it'll be worth it. I just hope there wasn't a difference between Acer's link and ordering it right off Msoft's site. I shall find out, eventually, hopefully :bouncy:

[richarddesmond]

Free upgrade to Windows XP Professional x64 Edition from Windows XP Professional (32-bit):
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/upgrade/default.mspx


What about winxp home? If not, can I upgrade to Professional, then X64?

[shadinio]

hey all,
am about 2 upgrade memory on my 3200 i got 2 corsair 512mb XMS 400mhz and from wat i hear its gonna b awesome i just need 2 no one thing. the module that is on the back of the laptop is easy to handle however 2 reach the other module requires removing the keyboard and etc. would this action (of tampering with the chassis) void my warranty in any way? wat would u advise me 2 do?

[Kerith]

Upgrading the memory in the slot under the keyboard does not void the warranty in any way. There used to be a guide posted but I couldn't seem to find it. So, I suggest looking at Snorre's handy helpful guide here: Memory/HDD Upgrade Guide (http://notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=361430#post361430)

Or to make it easier I'll just quote him :)

II. Upgrading the second memory slot located under the keyboard:

1. Remove the four screws that secure the middle cover (the one with the power & launch keys); two on each of the hinges on the back of the LCD screen
2. Remove the two screws marked with a 'K' on the bottom panel
3. Open the LCD screen as far back as it will go
4. Gently detach the middle cover upward and outwards with the assistance of a plastic flat head screw driver
5. Remove the three screws that secure the keyboard
6. Slide out the keyboard towards the LCD screen
7. Pop out the memory module then remove it
8. Replace the memory module and reassemble everything

I want to get 2GB running in this thing eventually. We'll see. Besides the fun factor, there isn't much reason. The Ferrari rips through anything I've thrown at it like a hot knife through butter. Heh, even Doom 3 high quality runs fine. Sometimes I wonder what all the fuss is about. As for the Ferrari 4000, I think there is no reason for me to try to get my greedy little hands on that. The Ferrari 3000 was a hot item when it hit the shelves... so I have a hunch there will eventually be a Ferrari 4200 and 4400 when ATI tosses out a new mobile GPU (x850 maybe? derivation of whatever its next chip will be?). Also, I'm not a fan of this wide screen phase... but I have a feeling eventually I'll have to comply. Ah well, sorry this kinda turned into a rant, hehe! Cheers :cheers:

[shadinio]

thx kerith for ur response
i have no difficulty in opening the thing 2 install the chip but i was just afraid that tampering with the chassis in any way would void the warranty am glad it doesnt :)

[shadinio]

i've just read the posts regarding the upgrade to win64 over and over and over again! i was just about to do the transaction wen i kind of got cold feet. do u recommend this update? is there smthn i should no about the change like smthn i should b careful of? r ur laptops working perfectly with everythin that is not 64? i work a lot with grafix and movie oriented programs so will i suffer from anythin?

[Kerith]

Well shadinio, I was hoping for some more words from Snorre on this topic. I went ahead and did it, because damn if I'm not curious. Problem is as the saying goes, "curiousity killed the cat." I don't think there'll be any problem because Acer specifically says x64 Prof will work on the Ferrari 3200/3400, so that makes me feel better.

Although, I did it through Microsoft's site, not Acer's-- which has me worried! So I'm hoping that it'll all work out in the end. Although my order has been pending since April 26th!! Come on Microsoft, burn me the stupid CD!

If you want, you can just wait for me to install it, then I'll post to this forum my thoughts/opinions/problems/successes. But, if you have no patience like me go ahead and order :bouncy:

[Kerith]

Oh I didn't answer the gfx question. There are 64-bit ATI drivers, so don't worry about that.

[Tjize]

I recently had a strange episode with my 3200. Last week it would sometimes start getting very slow and then be busy with a lot of strange hdd activity and then it would either simply freeze, crash or give a bluescreen, reinstalling windows didn't help and the time from boot to a crash kept getting shorter (even after a day of not using it) untill it wouldn't boot into windows.

I got my 3200 about a year ago and some months ago i had to send it back to acer to get the mainboard replaced as it would freeze after cold reboot and finnaly simply wouldn't boot, but the problem seemed different this time.

HOWEVER during the weekend i didn't touch it anymore and just as i was going to call acer on monday morning, i turned on the damn thing to be able to tell them exactly what was hapening, and since then it's been working again.

Although i installed hdtune, because i thought it might be my harddrive this time and my hdd temp when stressed is up to 56 C, isn't that a bit high? What is a normal hdd temp for the 3200? and has anyone had similar problems?

[shadinio]

just ordered win xp 64 from Acer's link when i go the MS website and enter my order no. and email it doesn't accept it anybody ordered their copy from Acer's link? i wanna no how to track my order another thing i noticed now all the links r tokin about an upgrade from win xp prof to win xp 64 prof but i got win xp home when i bought my Ferrari 3200 actually all Ferrari's have Home preinstalled i presume does that mean that i'm screwed?! also THEY CHARGED ME 70$ FOR THE WHOLE THING! DAMN! (where does the term "free" upgrade fit in?!) :(

[Turboke]

As i understand it, you are indeed royally screwed. You WILL have to upgrade to XP pro first. Only then can you install XP64

[shadinio]

aha very interesting....glad that i could be the guinea pig for all the people to do this step after me!!!! and who cares ...70 bucks?! i cut my hair for 90!
ok enough crying over broken eggs, can i just borrow an XP Pro from a friend install it on my lappy and then upgrade i understand that would b a violation of copyright piracy captain hook thing but am not just about to throw 70$ in the gutter and the idiots at the Acer link very innocently specified that F3200 is eligible (i no its because its AMD64) but the windows that comes with it is Home and NOT Pro DAMMIT! they could have had a warning for that :(

[Kerith]

I'm confused. I never saw a Ferrari 3200 or 3400 for sale with Home. Mine had Professional 32-bit pre-installed. Actually it was even service pack 2, not that that's relevant. I also don't understand the $70. I paid just for shipping & handling. And damnit if it isn't taking forever. I placed the order on April 26th I think...

...

Well I don't know what to say other than somehow you missed out on getting Professional.

Sometimes all of this is craziness. :surreal:

[shadinio]

i dont no if its because of regional issues but i bought my 3200 from Dubai, and at that time SP2 wasn't yet released and i got it with Home. all my friends who got other Acer laptops also have Home pre-installed. i ordered the 64bit from the Acer link not from Microsoft's one and they charged me 70$ for shipping. now i do realize that Lebanon is on the other half of the globe with respect to the US but 70$ for a 100 gram cd?!?!?!?!?!

[shadinio]

i also would like to add that in the confirmation mail that was sent to me they said that my product will arrive in 14 days max is that also suspicious?

[shadinio]

well it DID take only 14 days which is kinda nice but i ended up paying a total of 85$ which kinda emphasizes the point of "FREE" upgrade!!! 70$ for acer and 15 for FedEx shipment but at last I'm the proud new owner of WIN XP PRO x64. the cd looks nice but i wanna make sure if i recieved the whole thing. did all of u who ordered it earlier recieved a cd case with a cd and a small 2 paged manual regarding the COA and miscellaneous instructions? i feel as if the pack should have contained something more...i dunno maybe i'm just paranoid about the 85$!!!! anyway do i just install it normally like i would install any other windows? i no that i have to backup everything since it formats the hard drive but is there anything else i should know? thx yall

[shadinio]

btw concerning the hard disk upgrade i keep reading posts regarding a travelstar 7k60 or 7k100 isnt there a 7k80?

[snorre]

Snorre, is it a requirement to fresh the 3200 BIOS into 3400 if we want to upgrade the cpu to Turion?
I don't know, but I hope so.

Have you done that before or anyone else have done it?
I haven't upgrade the CPU to Turion 64 yet. However, I have updated the 3200 with the latest 3400 BIOS without any issues.

Refreshing a BIOS into different model may be a risk and I would like to confirm it before doing that.
No problem with using a 3400 BIOS on a 3200 as they're practically identical.

What's the stepping of 3700+ DTR? Is it also 90nm?
CG stepping like the "Odessa" 2800+ in the 3200 I think, both 130nm parts

It seems that the 3A28 BIOS is suitable for 3400 also.Does it mean that this BIOS support the 90nm cpu?
3400 ships with the "Oakville" 3000+, a 90nm D0 stepping part. For comparison, the Turion 64 "Lancaster" is a 90nm E0 stepping part.

[MadsD]

I haven't upgrade the CPU to Turion 64 yet. However, I have updated the 3200 with the latest 3400 BIOS without any issues.

No problem with using a 3400 BIOS on a 3200 as they're practically identical.


Is there any option to boot from USB keys on the 3400 BIOS?

[MadsD]

Okay, so no one answered previous question. Let's try this.

I'm playing a lot of World of Warcraft, and today my machine started showing display errors. Then it suddenly just rebooted. And after awhile of more gaming it shut down completely. YES it's heat-related. It's burning hot. It's done that once before, but then I figured... hey my calculater can tip it off the table a bit. And it worked. However this time, the calculator was still positioned under it.

Has anyone had same experience than me? What did Acer do when u phoned them about this?

[sodall2doo]

anybody got an idea why my mobile (se k750i) tells me that my 3200......has 'no services found' when i try to bluetooth the 2 together ? the 3200 can transfer files to the fone but not the other way around :scratch: what am i doing wrong ? i'm at a loss now .......some help would really be appreciated here :cheers:

chris

[MadsD]

Okay, so no one answered previous question. Let's try this.

I'm playing a lot of World of Warcraft, and today my machine started showing display errors. Then it suddenly just rebooted. And after awhile of more gaming it shut down completely. YES it's heat-related. It's burning hot. It's done that once before, but then I figured... hey my calculater can tip it off the table a bit. And it worked. However this time, the calculator was still positioned under it.

Has anyone had same experience than me? What did Acer do when u phoned them about this?

Okay, no one answered me on this either, so I'll answer myself :)

I called Acer, and they said, "Fine... we'll send you an UPS-label and then u can call UPS yourself to arrange pickup instructions... We're bringing it in!".

Next day I got the label, called UPS and they came and picked it up later that day. When the machine finally returned (within their time-frame of 5 business days), they had replaced harddrive, cleaned the fan and run a benchmarking program for several hours without ... and I quote... "shoot" down. :smash:

As today is the day my notebook returned I've yet to test it if it "shoots" down due to performance-intensive applications like World of Warcraft. But as of now, no shutdowns :-D

[NightHawk7]

I game all the time on mine and haven't had any issues. However, if you game for long periods of time, I HIGHLY recommend using a notebook cooler (I'm currently using a Lapcool2). Because if you hand't noticed, when running WoW you CPU is running constantly at 100% so without some "help" to cool down the notebook, after about 2-3hours you're system will reboot. If I remember this correctly, the Tomshardware review documented the periodic restart when gaming for long periods of time.

[MadsD]

I game all the time on mine and haven't had any issues. However, if you game for long periods of time, I HIGHLY recommend using a notebook cooler (I'm currently using a Lapcool2). Because if you hand't noticed, when running WoW you CPU is running constantly at 100% so without some "help" to cool down the notebook, after about 2-3hours you're system will reboot. If I remember this correctly, the Tomshardware review documented the periodic restart when gaming for long periods of time.

So TomsHardware actually did test the Ferrari :confused: I thought I checked almost all reviews before I bought it ;)

Anyhow, thank you for this answer. And I don't think u cannot notice that CPU is used 100% , with all that ALT+TAB'ing to look at Thottbot :lol:
Ooooh almost cannot wait until my Hitachi Travelstar 7K100 60gb harddrive arrives :p

[WLF46WLF]

maybe someone can help me: I've a problem with the latest release of ati catalyst from 5.4 to 5.8. the problem is: when I try to start 3dmark05, or any 3D bench, I've black screen! I can do the bench only if I set the frequency to minimal. before these release I didn't have any problems.

now I've seen a strange thing:
here is the screen

http://img369.imageshack.us/img369/4338/screen5iz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

wht 128 in details of 3dmark??
maybe this is a problem and it cause my black screen!

hope you can help me :cheers:
thanks ;)

[d3xter]

Does anybody know where can I buy ferrari 3200 battery? What's exactly the model I should search for?

[WLF46WLF]

maybe someone can help me: I've a problem with the latest release of ati catalyst from 5.4 to 5.8. the problem is: when I try to start 3dmark05, or any 3D bench, I've black screen! I can do the bench only if I set the frequency to minimal. before these release I didn't have any problems.

now I've seen a strange thing:
here is the screen

http://img369.imageshack.us/img369/4338/screen5iz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

why 128 in details of 3dmark??
maybe this is a problem and it cause my black screen!

hope you can help me :cheers:
thanks ;)

:(

[WLF46WLF]

edit: now I know what's the problem: if I set "to scale all resolution to native resolution" there is the problem. instead, "not to scale..." the problem disappear!
(this in advanced-->visualization)
now, how can I do? is there a solution??

my MR9700 is ok! infact I've done a 3dmark05 (with not to scale...) now that I've 1GB ddr400 and this is my score! I think it's very good!

http://img388.imageshack.us/img388/994/3dmark2xm.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[WLF46WLF]

noone?? :confused: :rolleyes:

[WLF46WLF]

is there someone?! :confused: :(

[Zael]

Don't worry WLF46WLF, some people are still reading this thread. It's just that there's not much to speak anymore.. :/

Well, anyways, I myself am interested if anyone knows whether there have been any news about the updates for the DVD-drive?

sodall2doo, no idea about your problem.. I myself have had a "No device found" when trying to turn on bluetooth on my laptop.. Usually get's solved by shutting it down, opening the wlan & bluetooth hatch and checking the wires and that the card itself is tightly in place.

[Marcelo_Yu]

Hi guys!
can someone tell me what memory is better for laptop? Crucial or Corsair?
it's for my laptop ferrari 3200, i want to upgrade it to 2GB, it's maximun capacity.
Thanks!!

[synapse46]

I just got a 3400lmi a few weeks ago, and I LOVE it. I use it for work at two different jobs, to play world of warcraft and to show it off :)

I have a few issues and I thought this would be the best place to ask.

First, everytime I restart it from standby or from off, the brightness is all the way down and I have to turn it back up everytime, any idea why?

I was also wondering if the wifi card supports wpa encryption.

Ive also been wondering if I should upgrade the video drivers with current ones.

Thanks
Jason

[synapse46]

Well issue #1 I think i figured out. It seems I need to set the brightness with it unplugged.

[WLF46WLF]

I just got a 3400lmi a few weeks ago, and I LOVE it. I use it for work at two different jobs, to play world of warcraft and to show it off :)

I have a few issues and I thought this would be the best place to ask.

First, everytime I restart it from standby or from off, the brightness is all the way down and I have to turn it back up everytime, any idea why?

I was also wondering if the wifi card supports wpa encryption.

Ive also been wondering if I should upgrade the video drivers with current ones.

Thanks
Jason

for brightness in the bios there is an option that make full brightness on AC power and minimum on battery. you must just turn it off ;)

yes, wifi supports wpa encryption :D, i use this in my university ;)

finally for video drivers you can upgrade with the last official catalyst mobility ;)

byez

[synapse46]

WLF46WLF
Thanks for the info. For me the constant brightness between battery and AC is much nicer.

I have a question on memory that is probably burried in this forum somewhere, but here goes.

Is the 512MB split or a single module, and is it possible to just upgrade the single chip on the bottom. Is it dual channel? Dual channel requires an even number of modules of the same size, correct?

[WLF46WLF]

WLF46WLF
Thanks for the info. For me the constant brightness between battery and AC is much nicer.

I have a question on memory that is probably burried in this forum somewhere, but here goes.

Is the 512MB split or a single module, and is it possible to just upgrade the single chip on the bottom. Is it dual channel? Dual channel requires an even number of modules of the same size, correct?

they are two modules 256mb ddr333. and no, they are not dual channel, so you can upgrade with one different ;)

[WLF46WLF]

my record in 3Dmark05!:headbang: memory at 259!! further more there are artifacts (at 262/265) and core at 518:wow:
my old OC with catalyst 4.11 was 250/486. now with new catalist 5.11 I've tried a new one! amazing! I did not think that I could reach that frequency!
2076
:headbang:
http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/4699/3dm05oc2zu.th.jpg (http://img501.imageshack.us/my.php?image=3dm05oc2zu.jpg)

anyone else with his score?:thumbup:

[synapse46]

WLF46WLF

Can you post your 3dmark03 score?
And your score in HDtach. Im curious how much faster the 7200rpm drive is. Just give me your high and low across the graph and the burst rate.

Also, how do you overclock the ati card? Does it have a registry hack like coolbitz?

[synapse46]

Preloaded drivers
3dmark03
3080

Preloaded HD
high 30MB/s
low 15MB/s
avg 23.8MB/s
cpu 4.1%
random access 18.1ms
Burst 95.2MB/s

[WLF46WLF]

WLF46WLF

Can you post your 3dmark03 score?
And your score in HDtach. Im curious how much faster the 7200rpm drive is. Just give me your high and low across the graph and the burst rate.

Also, how do you overclock the ati card? Does it have a registry hack like coolbitz?

now I don't have 3dmark2003.. you have to wait.. what about hd tach? is it free? I've hdtune
I use atitool for OC my GPU

[synapse46]

get hdtach here
http://www.simplisoftware.com/Public/index.php?request=HdTach
scroll down a bit to download it. It works really well, just do the quick test. Im really curious how much faster the 7200rpm drive is.

The ATI mobility app says I cant upgrade, and according to the acer driver download page, the preloaded drivers are the newest.

[WLF46WLF]

high 40-42MB/s
low 20MB/s
avg 30.9MB/s
cpu 0%%
random access 14.5ms
Burst 95.6MB/s

with all open in background

why don't you compare 3dmark05? you can use aty catalyst mobility 5.11 from driverheaven ;) default frequency I do 1780 ;)
OC @522/258-->2084

[WLF46WLF]

xp64 bit, clean system:

high 90-92MB/s
low 38-40MB/s
avg 69.3MB/s
cpu 2%
random access 6.5ms
Burst 214.0MB/s

:wow:

hdtune-->the same!

[synapse46]

Wow, thats a nice increase in performance. With the 64bit xp are there any driver issues I should know about? My work as an XP64 I can install, which I wasnt interested in until after you posted that. Did you drivers from ATI's site or acer drivers with XP64?

I'll post 3dmark05 scores when I can download it at work.


xp64 bit, clean system:

high 90-92MB/s
low 38-40MB/s
avg 69.3MB/s
cpu 2%
random access 6.5ms
Burst 214.0MB/s

:wow:

hdtune-->the same!

[synapse46]

why don't you compare 3dmark05? you can use aty catalyst mobility 5.11 from driverheaven ;) default frequency I do 1780 ;)
OC @522/258-->2084

When I try to install the drivers from ATI it says they are not compatable, are the drivers at driverheaven different? I havent tried them.

[WLF46WLF]

Wow, thats a nice increase in performance. With the 64bit xp are there any driver issues I should know about? My work as an XP64 I can install, which I wasnt interested in until after you posted that. Did you drivers from ATI's site or acer drivers with XP64?

I'll post 3dmark05 scores when I can download it at work.

I haven't install video drivers on xp64bit yet.

[WLF46WLF]

When I try to install the drivers from ATI it says they are not compatable, are the drivers at driverheaven different? I havent tried them.

I think you're trying to install normal ati catalyst! but you can download ati mobility drivers ;)
here the link: http://www.ati.com/online/mobilecatalyst/

[synapse46]

I haven't install video drivers on xp64bit yet.

Can you run 3dmark or games at all with the base drivers? Let me know how the video driver install goes.

[WLF46WLF]

Can you run 3dmark or games at all with the base drivers? Let me know how the video driver install goes.

now I don't have video drivers for xp64.. I've to find they, then I try ;)

but I think taht video card runs the same.

let me know your score ;)

[synapse46]

now I don't have video drivers for xp64.. I've to find they, then I try ;)

but I think taht video card runs the same.

let me know your score ;)

Can you run 3dmark or games with XP64 as it is right now?

I tried to run 3dmark05, and it says there are no tests selected and it wont let me select any tests. All it will let me do is the demo.

[synapse46]

When I start 3dmark05 it says pixelshader 2.0 is not supported, is that why I cant run the tests, or do they not allow the tests to be run in the free version any more?

[WLF46WLF]

When I start 3dmark05 it says pixelshader 2.0 is not supported, is that why I cant run the tests, or do they not allow the tests to be run in the free version any more?

it sounds strange..

in xp64 i've not a video driver right now

[synapse46]

did you get games to run in xp64?

what app do you use to overclock the vidcard?

[WLF46WLF]

did you get games to run in xp64?

what app do you use to overclock the vidcard?

no, I've never played games under xp64.

I use ati tool to OC my gpu ;)

[jimmyT]

Thinking of upgrading my stock hardrive to a Hitachi 0A31611 Deskstar T7K250 250GB ATA 7200rpm 8mb

Anyone know if this drive is suitable for use in the ferrari 3200?

[WLF46WLF]

Thinking of upgrading my stock hardrive to a Hitachi 0A31611 Deskstar T7K250 250GB ATA 7200rpm 8mb

Anyone know if this drive is suitable for use in the ferrari 3200?

I think not. you must upgrade to 2,5" hard disk.

the hitachi you mentioned is a 3,5" hard drive for desktop ;)

take a look to hitachi TRAVELSTAR models. there are 7200rpm drives, but they are only 60/80/100GB ;)

[jimmyT]

Whoops! Can't believe i missed that! What was i thinking? :wow: :wow: :wow:
Just out of interest, i'm still having no luck with any of the methods of updating my bluetooth driver mentioned in this thread, what is the current thinking on this issue? Are their any available for xp64 pro, or am i stuck with the awful microsoft drivers?

[WLF46WLF]

Whoops! Can't believe i missed that! What was i thinking? :wow: :wow: :wow:
Just out of interest, i'm still having no luck with any of the methods of updating my bluetooth driver mentioned in this thread, what is the current thinking on this issue? Are their any available for xp64 pro, or am i stuck with the awful microsoft drivers?

I use win drivers for the bluetooth, and I think they work at well:lolatyou:

[WonderDude]

Hey guys! I'm excited to anounce that I have finally busted a move on purchasing a gaming laptop. I've been surfing this forum on and off threatning to buy this or that for years it seems. Well, I finally took the plunge and if it all works out (i.e. the ebayer I purchassed from doesn't turn out to be a scam artist) I'll have nice brand new sealed Ferrari 3400LMi!!! BTW, what does LMi stand for?

Anyway, I know to some of you, the 3400 is old news and on it's way out. But for me, coming from an old Inpiron 5000 (P-III 500mhz w/ 8mb ATi Rage and 384mb RAM), it's gonna be a new way of life! :dance2:

Well, I haven't had time to go through this entire thread :wow:, but I did spot the following quote from WLF46WLF...

why don't you compare 3dmark05? you can use aty catalyst mobility 5.11 from driverheaven default frequency I do 1780 OC @522/258-->2084

MAN WLF46WLF!!! That's impressive! You're not too far behind the stock 4000 series! :thumbup:

I'm very excited now! :banana: :banana: :banana:

I'm planning on eventually swapping the drive for some Hitachi of some sort. And then swapping out the lower DIMM for a 1024mb PC2700 stick!

P.S. Does anyone know the CAS timing of the factory RAM? And does the BIOS allow for acurate RAM timing tweeking? Or is it pretty much all automatic?

Thanks!

And thanks for all the tons of info this forum provides! :dude: :dude: :dude:

[WLF46WLF]

Hey guys! I'm excited to anounce that I have finally busted a move on purchasing a gaming laptop. I've been surfing this forum on and off threatning to buy this or that for years it seems. Well, I finally took the plunge and if it all works out (i.e. the ebayer I purchassed from doesn't turn out to be a scam artist) I'll have nice brand new sealed Ferrari 3400LMi!!! BTW, what does LMi stand for?

Anyway, I know to some of you, the 3400 is old news and on it's way out. But for me, coming from an old Inpiron 5000 (P-III 500mhz w/ 8mb ATi Rage and 384mb RAM), it's gonna be a new way of life! :dance2:

Well, I haven't had time to go through this entire thread :wow:, but I did spot the following quote from WLF46WLF...



MAN WLF46WLF!!! That's impressive! You're not too far behind the stock 4000 series! :thumbup:

I'm very excited now! :banana: :banana: :banana:

I'm planning on eventually swapping the drive for some Hitachi of some sort. And then swapping out the lower DIMM for a 1024mb PC2700 stick!

P.S. Does anyone know the CAS timing of the factory RAM? And does the BIOS allow for acurate RAM timing tweeking? Or is it pretty much all automatic?

Thanks!

And thanks for all the tons of info this forum provides! :dude: :dude: :dude:

yeah:thumbup:

now i give you some advices :p

first of all: if you want to upgrade the ram, get a 1GB pc3200 module! i've bios v. 3A32 and it works at 200MHz. in particular I've 1GB pc3200 kingston sodimm. I've tried corsair sodimm, the same of snorre many months ago, but in my lappie they doesn't work:mad:

for hd I think that one of the new hitachi 7k100 is perfect :mmm: maybe 100GB version:thumbup:

then, if you want to tweak the ram, you can use a64tweaker, but if you buy 1GB ddr400 I think you don't have to ;)

[WonderDude]

Oh Cool!!! Thanks! :bow:

Hey, what do you think of THIS RAM (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820141208)? :scratch:

As for the harddrive, I think the 60 or 80 gig will be more in my price range! ;)

:light1

[WLF46WLF]

Oh Cool!!! Thanks! :bow:

Hey, what do you think of THIS RAM (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820141208)? :scratch:

As for the harddrive, I think the 60 or 80 gig will be more in my price range! ;)

:light1

it's hard to say :( as I saw you, I bought 2x512 corsair, the same as snorre! but they doesn't work! I think that it's better if you can try the module before you buy it ;)

[synapse46]

I got a single 1GB chip from newegg.com so I didnt have to mess with removing the keyboard. I figure in a year or two I might upgrade the other socket with a 1GB chip to max it out.

I play warcraft in my down time and 1GB made a HUGE difference. Also, converting to fat32 made a big difference and the stock HD is much more tollerable now.

All in all the more I use it the more I like it, got mine almost 2 months ago. I also got an antec laptop cooler for playing warcraft. I take it with me to clients all the time and its size makes it great for mobility and as a desktop replacement.

[WonderDude]

Hey guys, it seem like from what I've been reading, that installing PC3200 RAM over PC2700 RAM really doesn't make that much of a difference. Seems like it would be allot cheaper and easier just to replace the lower DIMM with one 1gig PC2700 stick and be done with it. What do you guys think?

Any advise would be greatly appreaciated.

P.S. The guy I bought the 3400 from emailed me today and said that a big brown truck was gonna drop a package off at my house next week!!!!
:banana: :w00t: :laughing: :dance2: :eek: :thumbup: :awdance:

I wonder what that could be!!!!! :headbang:

[synapse46]

Unless you adjust the memory clock the type of ram won't make any difference. Seeing how it already runs on the hot side I dont think I would mess with that, and it is already crazy fast.

[WLF46WLF]

Hey guys, it seem like from what I've been reading, that installing PC3200 RAM over PC2700 RAM really doesn't make that much of a difference. Seems like it would be allot cheaper and easier just to replace the lower DIMM with one 1gig PC2700 stick and be done with it. What do you guys think?

Any advise would be greatly appreaciated.

P.S. The guy I bought the 3400 from emailed me today and said that a big brown truck was gonna drop a package off at my house next week!!!!
:banana: :w00t: :laughing: :dance2: :eek: :thumbup: :awdance:

I wonder what that could be!!!!! :headbang:

I think that a pc3200 is better than pc2700. first of all, better bandwidth.
then you have ram & bus in synchrone:thumbup:

I've gained 2 or less more second at superpi 1M ;)

[WonderDude]

Well, so much for upgrading or even playing with the Ferrari! The seller turned out to be a scammer. Now I'll just have to wait to get my money back. :reallymad

[animesh]

Hi
I am really happy with my Ferrari but think its time to upgrade the stock memory using a single 1GB stick. I've found this on dabs.com but i'm not sure if it will work have any of you tried it:
http://www.dabs.com/ProductView.aspx...edId=11150&v=1
So my question is will it work or if not can anyone suggest a different stick for about the same price

Thanks
Animesh

ps I tried to use the search but it is not working for me and I live in the UK

[synapse46]

I couldnt get that link to work...
I got this and it works great
http://www.newegg.com/product/product.asp?item=N82E16820145068

Just make sure the cas latency is correct and anything should be fine.

[animesh]

Hi
Sorry this link should work (try open in new/tab window):
http://www.dabs.com/productview.aspx?Quicklinx=3SD7&CategorySelectedId=11150&PageMode=1&NavigationKey=11150,40399,4294957152
Thanks
Animesh

[sonichero]

I tried to install mobility catalyst 5.13 in my ferrari 3400. the problem is when i open the ati control centre the words are mixed up and overlaping each other i cant see it clearly. why is it happening?

[WLF46WLF]

anybody has any problem with drivers 5.xx? I mean problems with the resolution: to scale few resolution at native resolution. in control panel-->visualization-->monitor

I've tried another ferrari of a friend of mine: the same problem as me.

what do you think?

[synapse46]

Hi
Sorry this link should work (try open in new/tab window):
http://www.dabs.com/productview.aspx?Quicklinx=3SD7&CategorySelectedId=11150&PageMode=1&NavigationKey=11150,40399,4294957152
Thanks
Animesh


Kingston is decent memory, but I think the most important thing for stability is to make sure you get the same cas latency.

Im still using the preloaded vid drivers. When I tried upgrading it wouldnt let me :( I have had good luck with the preloaded ones, the only game I have installed at the moment is WoW so im not too concerned about it, WoW runs awesome btw. Is there a big gain in performance with the newer drivers?

[WLF46WLF]

Kingston is decent memory, but I think the most important thing for stability is to make sure you get the same cas latency.

Im still using the preloaded vid drivers. When I tried upgrading it wouldnt let me :( I have had good luck with the preloaded ones, the only game I have installed at the moment is WoW so im not too concerned about it, WoW runs awesome btw. Is there a big gain in performance with the newer drivers?

yes, a big gain especially if you have at least 1GB RAM! but I've the problem of the resolution that other people with MR9700 (but not the ferrari) don't have!

[synapse46]

have you run 3dmark on xp64?

[WLF46WLF]

have you run 3dmark on xp64?

no, i have not.

[synapse46]

no, i have not.

Can you?

[WLF46WLF]

Can you?

now I've not video drivers installed. I've found those that snorre has posted. but I wish prefer official drivers or eventually Omega drivers, but there aren't.
have you any advice for me?

[synapse46]

What drivers did snorre post?

Im still debating on installing it, I want to make sure everything will work before I take the time to do it.

[WLF46WLF]

What drivers did snorre post?

Im still debating on installing it, I want to make sure everything will work before I take the time to do it.

http://www.notebookforums.com/showthread.php?p=620381#post620381

[planter]

Almost all the drivers you need is already included in the windows xp64 disc. The only one you need to install separately is the video driver. When i upgraded to xp64, i was suprised on how smooth everything installed and until now i am using it with no problems what so ever.

[WLF46WLF]

now I try to installa catalyst 5.13 with dhmodtool3. then I can tell you my 3Dmark score on xp64

[SLIPKNOTN21]

Processor
Mobile AMD Athlon™ 64 processor 2800+
I know most people tie the temp of the laptop to the CPU and though it's not accurate that whatever CPU it has it what temp it runs, it does have an effect on that, it's size and weight, and battery life. It's a very small and light system and to the touch it's about the same as many of the other high end laptops as far as palm temp.

Hard Drive
80GB 4200rpm
This is as high as you will find in a laptop that uses mobile drives. Why they used a 4200rpm hard drive in a laptop they named after a super car I have no idea.

RAM
512MB 333DDR
Acer says it supports 2GB of DDR400, but they bundle it with 512MB of DDR333 with no other options. the difference of 333 to 400DDR is probably only going to be noticed in benchmarks. 512MB of RAM is plenty for most users and Windws XP, the only problem would be with very extreme programs, opening up tons of high res pictures with photoshop, and some of the newer games released since Planetside. Planetside was the first game I noticed having major lag with 512 and needed upgraded in all systems I tried it on. Since then there have been a few others and I noticed EQ2 recommends 1GB+ of RAM to play and a minumum of 512. Not that everyone would be playing EQ2, but just to give an example.

LCD
15" SXGA+ TFT
One of the better SXGA+ LCD I've seen. It's bright and average in angle viewing.

Comes with a matching mini mouse (USB).
http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/1_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1337)

The paintjob on the lid is what you would expect on an exotic supercar... beautiful and flawless. The sides are still red, but left with a rough texture.
http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/2_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1338)

http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/3_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1339)

The slot load CD drive is one of my fav features as I've always preferred the slot over the tray.
http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/4_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1340)

http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/5_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1341)

http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/6_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1342)

The system is over all very solid and light. It weighed in under 7 lbs.
http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/7_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1343)

The keyboard like most of the high end Acer's I've seen has the curved keys which I get mixed opinions on.
http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/8_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1344)

The default desktop scene here. During boot up you will hear a loud "vrrrrroooommmmm" like you're at the track and a car is flying by. This is guaranteed to get everyone's attention, so be prepared.
http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/9_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1345)

http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/10_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1346)

The hard drive is a pretty easy swap. You can access it by just removing two screws. It take 4 more scews to remove it from the bracket.
http://www.pctorque.com/images/3200/11_.jpg (http://notebookforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1347)

Couple of video benchmarks

Aquamark3
26,182

3DMARK01 SE
10,898

3DMARK03
3,028

I ran it with DVD playback right out of the box after completing 100% full charge. It ran 1 hour and 40 minutes before shutting down.

Overall I think it's a sweet system for the right person. To reach the full market a UXGA LCD, faster CPU, more RAM, and a faster hard drive need to be offered as options. It has been noted by another user that they successfully upgraded to the 3200+ AMD procesor. We've been doing some hard drive swaps for people also to the 80GB 5400rpm hard drive and 60GB 7200rpm drive.









does the lt only have one ram slot? like when you showed it all open and shit, i I saw only one ram stick in their and if im mistaken it doesnt like like you can fit another

[WonderDude]

The 3000 series Ferraris come with 2 RAM slot loaded with 256mb PC2700 sticks each. The slot on the bottom is supposedly easy to get to. The slot on the top requires the removal of the keyboard. For this reason, allot of people just simply replace the bottom stick with a 1gig PC2700 stick. Giving a total of 1280mb or 1.25gb of RAM. But, if you want to upgrade to PC3200 RAM, you'll also have to replace the top stick. There is allot of debate as to whether or not the slight increase of performance from increasing the RAM speed is actually worth removing the keyboard. Also, there is a thread somewhere in these forums that not only explains how to do it, but also shows pictures of the ordeal. In fact, I believe there is a link to that thread somewhere in this thread.

Anyway, good luck! :)

[synapse46]

Two screws holding a cover is all it takes to get at the bottom slot. I upgraded mine to 1280MB and it performs great. When I have time i think im going to take the 64bit plunge...

I figure a year or two down the road i'll upgrade it to 2GB if i still have it, and clean it out when I remove the keyboard.

[silverdragun]

i ran 3dmark05 on xp64 on ferrari 3200

score is 1321
after the benchmark is done, blue screen appears and PC restarted, probably used up all the RAM (512MB)



pretty bad compared to 6401 on dell xps gen2

[synapse46]

i ran 3dmark05 on xp64 on ferrari 3200

score is 1321
after the benchmark is done, blue screen appears and PC restarted, probably used up all the RAM (512MB)

pretty bad compared to 6401 on dell xps gen2

What drivers did you use for the vid card? The 9700pro is a bit old to score very high in 3dmark05, but your score should have been higher. Were you using the naitive xp64 drivers?

WLF46WLF
Do the drivers install?
Did you test it yet.

[silverdragun]

ya i used native 64 bit drivers from microsoft
there is no 3rd party drivers yet for it

what is the least score with 3rd party drivers?

[synapse46]

ya i used native 64 bit drivers from microsoft
there is no 3rd party drivers yet for it

what is the least score with 3rd party drivers?


Will the latest X64 drivers from ati install?
But for naitive drivers, i think thats good.

If they run warcraft id be a happy camper, might x64 tomorrow.

[WLF46WLF]

Will the latest X64 drivers from ati install?
But for naitive drivers, i think thats good.

If they run warcraft id be a happy camper, might x64 tomorrow.

I think you can mod the latest official catalyst (5.13) with dhmodtool3. it works ;)

I'll try to install it in a couple of days

[synapse46]

Very impressed with x64 so far. Couldnt believe everything was functional at startup, I installed drivers for the Proc. from AMD anyways.

I installed a 64bit version of firefox and that works good. It scores marginally better in 3dmark03 at 3090. The only game I run is warcraft, so as long as that runs I'll be happy. Everything else seems to work great and there are 10+ less processes in memory.

:thumbup:

[synapse46]

As noted a few pages back, disk access was HUGELY increased.
Measured with HDtach.

xp32
Preloaded HD
high 30MB/s
low 15MB/s
avg 23.8MB/s
cpu 4.1%
random access 18.1ms
Burst 95.2MB/s

xp64
preloaded HD
high 76MB/s
low 40MB/s
avg 59.6MB/s
cpu 4%
random access 7.3ms
Burst 236.7MB/s

[synapse46]

When you bring x64 out of standby, does anybody else get a systen check error?

[WLF46WLF]

As noted a few pages back, disk access was HUGELY increased.
Measured with HDtach.

xp32
Preloaded HD
high 30MB/s
low 15MB/s
avg 23.8MB/s
cpu 4.1%
random access 18.1ms
Burst 95.2MB/s

xp64
preloaded HD
high 76MB/s
low 40MB/s
avg 59.6MB/s
cpu 4%
random access 7.3ms
Burst 236.7MB/s


there is an error, I think you run installed on win32, isn't it? if you try to re-install hd tach on win64 the score is the same as win 32 ;)

[silverdragun]

ya after coming back on from standby mode, there is a system check error
anyone knows how to fix it?

[synapse46]

Anybody try a seagate monmentus drive? Im curious how much cooler it runs than the travelstar 80GN.

[algirdas2004]

Hey ya all,

I've realized I happen to travel from time to time without a socket next to me, so I decided I need an extra battery for my Ferrari 3200. Are there any rather long-life batteries on the market? What are the brand names and prices I should be looking for?

Thanks,
Algirdas

P.S. Have you noticed this thread still says "just a few pics/couple benches"? :)

[algirdas2004]

Does anyone know if there is an update for the Ferrari wallpaper available? The newest I could find ended in March 2006...

Cheers,
Algirdas

[pwkt118]

Here's the link I found in the Acer China website for downloading the update of Ferrari wallpaper (only valid to Aug 2006) .

http://www.acer.com.cn/driver/check_whole.asp?a=d32&sort=notebook&product=FR3400&path=WinXP

I have downloaded the update and follow the instruction to unzip it and then put the FerrariWP.exe file into the startup folder. But it still don't have any changes to the calendar. Can anybody help? :scratch:

[pwkt118]

I just want to inform all folks here the Ferrari wallpaper update (Apr 06 - Jun07) has been released in the Ferrari website.

This is the link
http://www.ferrariworld.com/FWorld/fw/community/communityHome.jsp?language=en :)

[synapse46]

sweet, thanks

I tested my 3400lmi against a 2.0Ghz core duo acer in raw CPU power, the 3400 was 8% faster. I also just setup a 4006lmi for a client and that tested over 20% faster than the 3400, thing is crazy fast.. I still love my 3400 though.

*edit*
I cant find the calendar update on that page...

[synapse46]

I dont see it in screensavers & wallpaper, and it looks like you have to be registered to download anything...

[pwkt118]

Sure, you have to register first before you can download anything on that page.

[synapse46]

Can somebody else host the file? Or email it to me and I can host it.

[algirdas2004]

Here's the link I found in the Acer China website for downloading the update of Ferrari wallpaper (only valid to Aug 2006) .

http://www.acer.com.cn/driver/check_whole.asp?a=d32&sort=notebook&product=FR3400&path=WinXP

I have downloaded the update and follow the instruction to unzip it and then put the FerrariWP.exe file into the startup folder. But it still don't have any changes to the calendar. Can anybody help? :scratch:

Here (http://pandora.iu-bremen.de/~agrybas/other/WP.ini) is the manually adjusted config file - just replace it with the one you have in the FerrariWallpaper folder and copy the new wallpapers into the 2006 folder. It should work. Also, note that there is April's wallpaper missing - there are 2 March wallpapers.

[snorre]

I just want to inform all folks here the Ferrari wallpaper update (Apr 06 - Jun07) has been released in the Ferrari website.

This is the link
http://www.ferrariworld.com/FWorld/fw/community/communityHome.jsp?language=en :)
Official Acer Ferrari Wallpaper 2006-2007 updates for Acer Ferrari 3200/3400 can be downloaded here:
http://stkts.sertek.com.tw/notebook.nsf/f8...40?OpenDocument (http://stkts.sertek.com.tw/notebook.nsf/f8216decdda3731a482568a3002c860b/d663fd4d6f36951748257145000e0540?OpenDocument)

[synapse46]

anybody know if 1680x1050 works with the preloaded drivers in x64?

[persiancowboy]

hey,

thanks for the pdf file. I had problem taking off the monitor. However I found out that I need to disconnect the LCD and wireless cable from it first.

I called Acer and they refused to send me a copy of the guide.

Thanks

Hooman

[Snowdog1967]

Anybody running VISTA Beta on their 3200s yet?

[SeoulFinn]

Has anyone replaced the original CPU with MTxx processor? I know one guy (from this forum) who replaced A64 2800 with MT40... but are there others who have done the same thing?

(PS. I know, I should've replaced mine ages ago. :blushing: )

[algirdas2004]

Not sure if this should go here, but does anyone know if there are Linux (SuSE 10.0) WLAN drivers available for Ferrari 3200? snorre, you seem to be master as far as drivers and other useful thingies are concerned... :)

[snorre]

Has anyone replaced the original CPU with MTxx processor? I know one guy (from this forum) who replaced A64 2800 with MT40... but are there others who have done the same thing?

(PS. I know, I should've replaced mine ages ago. :blushing: )
Me too :$

Seems like I will attempt this myself this summer, either a MT-40 or a ML-44 whatever seems the best buy to me. What do you think will be the best option?

[snorre]

Not sure if this should go here, but does anyone know if there are Linux (SuSE 10.0) WLAN drivers available for Ferrari 3200? snorre, you seem to be master as far as drivers and other useful thingies are concerned... :)
WLAN works fine with NDISWRAPPER (see below). Still, I recommend that you try installing Ubuntu 6.06 instead as Broadcom WLAN drivers should be included/working with that distribution AFAIK:
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=190967

Get Ubuntu Desktop 6.06 from here: http://www.ubuntu.com/download

With regards to NDISWRAPPER see these pages for more:
http://ferrari.databa.se/
http://gentoo-wiki.com/HARDWARE_Acer_Ferrari_3400

[SeoulFinn]

Seems like I will attempt this myself this summer, either a MT-40 or a ML-44 whatever seems the best buy to me. What do you think will be the best option?

What? Even you haven't done this yet? What a surprise! Umm, suddenly I start to question the feasibility of this upgrade: "If the great Snorre hasn't done this can it be done at all?" *GRIN*

If the one and ONLY success story we have on this board is true, which I highly doubt, I think that MT-40 would be better option even if it gives us only 400 MHz, larger cache and lower TDP.

Anyway, I contacted a member of this forum (afortes) because a while ago he posted about trying ML-42... only to fail miserably. Unfortunately he hasn't succeeded to this very day. *SIGH* In a PM he mentioned trying even a MT-40 only to fail again.

So now that the CPU prices are coming down soon, and warranty is only a fleeting memory for us Ferrari 3200 owners, I think MT-40 is the best possible option out there. They are not that easy to get hold on in Finland, though!


"SeoulFinn"

PS. Maybe we should open a new thread about this to see if there's more knowledge to be had?

[synapse46]

Anybody running VISTA Beta on their 3200s yet?

Should we want to run Vista on our Ferrari 3X00s, do you think Acer will release drivers?

[Snowdog1967]

I have downloaded it and burned both x64 and 32 bit to DVD. I just haven't pulled the trigger yet.
I want to do a dual boot and haven't cleaned enough off of my HD to do that yet. I think I am going to soon, though. It is in my best interests professionally to load Vista and start "messing" with it.

I keep looking at the latest Ferrari. I have upgrade fever!

[Snowdog1967]

Well, I was going to load Vista, then my HD started making the high pitched whine that signals the end of life of the berrings, so off to Texas it went.:(
(I bought the extended Warranty, well worth it!):headbang:
So it's getting new HD, Battery (wasn't holding a good charge) and overall checkup as I was beginning to have some USB port issues as well.

When I get it back, I'm going to load Vista 64 bit and see what happens.
(I'm currently using an old desktop that was given to me, so it's not as critical that I have the laptop as my main system anymore)
I will report my findings shortly after I get it back.

[snorre]

Well, I was going to load Vista, then my HD started making the high pitched whine that signals the end of life of the berrings, so off to Texas it went.:(
(I bought the extended Warranty, well worth it!):headbang:
So it's getting new HD, Battery (wasn't holding a good charge) and overall checkup as I was beginning to have some USB port issues as well.

When I get it back, I'm going to load Vista 64 bit and see what happens.
(I'm currently using an old desktop that was given to me, so it's not as critical that I have the laptop as my main system anymore)
I will report my findings shortly after I get it back.
Sorry to hear about your problems, but I look forward hearing back from you regarding loading Vista.

[Snowdog1967]

I should know TOMORROW about Vista.

Laptop is on the way home. According to the service department, it has new HD, new keyboard (some of the keys had rubbed off) and battery.
Since they just loaded the factory stuff on it, I am not even going to do anything with it other than wipe it and load Vista 64bit.

[sonichero]

Has anyone have static noices in their ferrari....i used to hear it wen i am using my headphones...is there anyway to solve it

[Snowdog1967]

OK, I got my Ferrari back this evening, and got started loading Vista 64 bit about an hour ago. Beta 2 Build 5384 in case anyone is interested. ;)

It has taken about 45 minutes to copy and expand the Windows files and 1 reboot.
Installing features and updates taking a while but to be expected.
Other than the new hard drive running hotter than HECK, it's running fine. I really wonder if I should just buy a different HD that won't be so :censored: HOT.

So far so good. I have got to get my 1 gig chip put back in, though. 512 isnt enough to really "run" Vista.
I am thinking that a trip to get some more RAM is in order. I put the chip I had in there in my Wife's laptop for "safe keeping" while the Ferrari was in the shop and I don't think she'll want to give it back! :)

[silverdragun]

Hi,

So if your battery is approaching the end of its life, Acer will replace a new one for you at no cost if you still have warranty?

Thanks

[Snowdog1967]

Hi,

So if your battery is approaching the end of its life, Acer will replace a new one for you at no cost if you still have warranty?

Thanks
They did for me!
It was under the extended warranty.

[Snowdog1967]

Not to PostWhore here, but I had to re-format my system with the Windows XP.
Windows Vista Beta 2 LOOKS great. Just not ready yet. I know it is BETA software. I'll wait until the real thing comes out and get it.

UPDATE
I have loaded RC1 on my Ferrari 3200 on a seperate partitian and it is OK. It's probably not ready for prime time, but again, it's BETA. MS hasn't shared the APIs with the Anti Virus vendors yet. They are trying to hold that close so they can offer their own protection. Nice, huh. but no monopoly.
It is pretty though.