Ok, client brings me a laptop. Nice looking, HP dv7-1245dx (for specifics). Blank screen, seems to be running, but nothing on screen. LEDs near the caps lock and number lock keys flash four times, stop, flash four times, etc. Upon further investigation, this four flash code indicates video card failure. Uh-oh...motherboard replacement. Upon even further investigation, at an HP website forum, mind you, I find many, many folks with the same problem. Various complaints, ranging from HP saying they'll fix it for $390-$500 (after the bloomin' laptop was maybe $700 to start with), to some vowing never to buy HP products again for the above mentioned reason. This video problem apparently stems from the motherboards themselves, which were built by nVidia. Class action lawsuit dictated that nVidia was liable and had to foot the bill to replace the motherboards...for a time...which is now over. Man, just doesn't say much for a company I thought was a fairly stand-up outfit.
Now, my poor client, whom I have to call and tell this to, has this as a "best case scenario". The cheapest replacement mobo from a reputable place is gonna cost him $150 and about $200 for me to replace it. That's $350, folks. And that's the best option! Doubt the repair will be happening. Looks like he may have himself a $700 paperweight or doorstop.
Think I'll buy Toshiba next time...
God bless and geek on (hopefully NOT on an HP laptop)
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Really hate to hear about the HP situation. Can't another class action be filed? I've been a fan for many years but this scenario is crazy. Yes, Toshiba is my preference when it comes to laptops. Qosmio ROCKS! Like Dell too. I am on my fifth Toshiba and 3 of the other 4 are working. One was dropped off a roof, lol. BTW got a nice 17" Toshiba laptop in top notch condition with carrying case, etc. for sale. Not asking much. Hope you don't mind the mention. You can certainly do the same over at Cybersouth if ever the need arises. Heck let me know and I'll advertise for you in a post.
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