Whirlpool

Discussion continues on from this thread: forum-replies.cfm?t=737184

Hi Zepto pariticipants, please note that we have now moved to Zepto Computers Part 2.

Keep posting.

70 Pages of posts in the previous one, starting from someone who wasn't sure what they were :P It's sure taken off since then.

Will be neat to hear about the eventual product refresh.

yeah, really looking out for that refresh.

HI guys, let's continue the great debate here.

Is Zepto closing over Christmas/New Year?

Hehehe search Zepto in google the 4th result is the old whirlpool thread :)

Also why new one? The old one has like every single thing you can possibly want/need to know o.o

Hi Epic Fail,

Yeah, I'm not happy about it either, but I suppose 70 pages makes it a bit hard to go back. It is a Whirlpool decision, not Zepto.

I am happy to answer every question again if that helps build the brand.

Hi Bladders,

No we don't close, only the compulsory days.

A couple more questions Zepto-

Is the 3415W's 8600GT still the 128bit memory version?

And does the next business day on site warranty apply to all over Australia? Or only major cities?

Does the Zepto site have a "save cart" option? I looked but can't find it. Also, how are warranty calls handled (i.e. does the unit need to be returned to a service centre)?

Thanks,
Corine

Hi Bladders,

The 3415W has 512MB on the NVIDIA 8600GT card.

On-site mean within distance of a service center of which there are approx. 300 in Australia, so most large towns are also covered.

You can do one of two things, either let me know where you live and I'll confirm if that is covered, or order the pick-up and return warranty.

That simply means that we take it back to a service center, but we organise courier pick-up and return at our cost.

You should also be aware that even if you take on-site service, some faults will require return to the service center.

Hi fido666,

No, the Zepto site only has a "save cart" option during your sign on. You can forwards and backwards as much as you like, but once you sign off the website, your cart is lost.

If you need to keep it I suggest you cut and paste it into another format.

Sorry.

With regard to service that depends on the option you choose. If you choose on-site service, it will be serviced on-site unless the repair center deem it better to take it to the center, i.e. for testing or for major repair. I.e. should you require a LCD panel replacement or a motherboard replacement, that will not be done on site, but that said I have only had one faulty LCD panel so far, and in that case we chose to replace the notebook.

If you select pick-up and return, then we organise a courier to pick up and return it to you, normally within 2-3 days.

Zepto writes...

The 3415W has 512MB on the NVIDIA 8600GT card.

I was asking whether it's memory is 128 bit or 256 bit. Thanks.

Sorry Bladders, it obviously helps if you READ the question.

My understanding is that all 8600's are 128-bit, 8800's are 256 - 320 and 384-bit

Any definite plans for an 8800M in any model?

Oh and neither the 3415w or the 6224w have the ability to connect to a monitor?

6224w and 3415w both should have external display plugs shouldn't they? So VGA output is fine, no DVI though.

Ah yes, I stand corrected. I was searching the data sheet only for DVI!

I wonder how the 3d performance rates to competitors.

How did you want to compare?
The graphics cards are the fastest for the size (esp 14 inch at the moment), with the minor problem that they use DDR2, not DDR3 ram (or is it one step up from that). It's balanced a bit by the 512meg Ram on them though. 4gig ram addons would be the cheapest on this, so hey, vista is usable ;P

CPU's are back a bit on the 14inchers, but you can get all the current ones on the 15.4's.

hopeless writes...

Any definite plans for an 8800M in any model?

Yea, I'd really like to know this. I'm beginning to think I should hold off buying until they are released.

Bladders,

I have no details on the refresh really. All I know is that there will be at least one Penryn upgrade and one 17" notebook.

Nothing about any other details.

The early hounding was all about DVI/HDMI in the refresh and Nils assured us he fed that back to Denmark pretty clearly.

I'd love to see an eSATA port. That'd be a big selling point for some people.

I really like the 'Zepto Sleeve'. It's like wet-suit material. Very snug around it. Good for tucking under your arm and stuff. It's a shame it's only for 14's.

Maybe Nils you could give them feedback and see if they'll make the sleeve for 15"s?

Lol, if they can fit an 8800M in a 14" notebook, they would be the only ones on the market. But even so it's hard to find any companies who have committed to putting 8800's in 15"s.

Now there's a challenge for you!

Hi Jimmedy,

We did have the sleeve for the 15.4", I'll ask what happened to it.

With the 8800 in the 14" I suppose we will have a heat problem, but let's see.

The zepto sleeves I agree are big eye openers (they keep playing with it and pressing it in!)- nice snug fit.
The material is called memory foam by the way.

Will there be any alternative casing made from the same stuff? the casing is fantastic, but it means if you want to carry say an extended battery, or a mouse, you're SOL.

What are these sleeves people are talking of? I can't find them on the website.

I really hope Zepto offer HDMI/DVI in their latest refresh, it is the only thing holding me back from buying a lappy now! :).

Bladders,

If you go to www.zepto.com click on notebooks, select 6224W and then click on the tab accessories and then 'bags' then you will see the Sleeve as the first option.

If you then click on the text you will see a picture and a description, but yes, it does look and fit almost like a wetsuit.

Zepto writes...

yes, it does look and fit almost like a wetsuit.

A scuba store which handles custom wetsuit orders could get one made up for you. I have a regulator bag made out of 5mm neoprene, gives them protection and keeps them clean too.

On topic, does the 6324W really only weigh 2.2kgs? Even with a spec like this:-

Configuration
14" WXGA display, Crystal Clear
Keyboard Znote 6x14W White US
6 Cell Battery
NVIDIA® Geforce 8600M GT
2.00 GHz Intel® Core™2 Duo T7250 800MHz
2 GB DDR2 PC5300 Original Zepto Ram
320GB 5400RPM - HDD - Samsung®
Intel Pro/Wireless 4965AGN
SAMSUNG DVD-RW DL
Microsoft® Windows® XP Pro UK
Intel® Turbo Memory 1GB

Does the price include delivery? Also may I ask what the difference between "original Zepto" and the other RAM is?

Cheers,
Corine

Hi fido666

Yes the weight is correct and only change when you add additional physical boards such as the Intel Turbo Memory. That adds approx. 15 grms.

Delivery is extra but is automatically added on the checkout page.

All the DDR2 PC5300 RAM is identical, it is only in the description. All RAM in Zepto's is Kingston RAM but each partno. is tested and approved by Zepto

How long does it take for you guys to get your laptop once the order is place and you pay your deposit?

I think Zepto need to pick up their game with online order like Dell.
Because at a moment once you pay the deposit you dont know what the heck is happening until they contact you or something.

haha, i love the sleeve as well - i got the same reaction from my friends when i brought it out 'ooooo - touch touch'

Hi Pro Evolution

Sorry if you feel we don't keep you informed. We are upgrading our systems to be able to handle that, however we are currently shipping from the factory in about one week, and as soon as we ship you receive a tracking number from the freight company, so it is not really a black hole.

We deliver much quicker than the ordering system says, so if i.e. you place an order and is told 18 days delivery, and we send you a tracking number after about 7 or 8, is that so bad?

How long is delivery time for a Dell?

Last time I order stuff from Dell probably about 6 months ago
I order 24" screen and 22" screen they said it will takes 10 working days to get to me

I order it on Wednesday and I got it Tuesday next week. (4 Working day)
but Dell tracking system is great so I check once a day and know where it is and anticipate it's arriving on Tuesday.

I know laptop took longer and the last laptop I bought from dell took around 10 days to get to me from the day I paid with the credit card.

PS: is there a way to track what's happening with the order on zepto web site?

Hi again,

No, not yet. We are working on it.

You can track it from it leaves the factory, not whilst being built.

What's the main difference between the 6224W Gamer and the 6324W Design series? I specced up 2 identical configs and got slightly different pricing.

What speed is the Samsung DL burner used in both models?

I'm in Vic so how confident can I be that I will get service when I need it? Sorry but Zepto is a new brand to me so I have no history to go on.

Cheers,
Corine

fido666 writes...

I'm in Vic so how confident can I be that I will get service when I need it?

I'm in regional vic, and get service fine here.

The 6324W is white casing... other than that im not sure.

Well, the mobile penryn chips are coming out 6th January:
www.engadget.com/2007/12...ting-january-6th

Good news for the refresh :b

The 6224 and 6324 are technically identical, though I know the pricing is not always in tandem. The pricing people treat them as different items so the slightest fraction difference in costing shows up.

I have contacted Denmark to get the model number and specs for the drive.

Re service, I can tell you that we have over 300 service points in Australia, naturally most in Vic and NSW. Service is contracted to United Electrical, a subsidiary of Chubb, a billion $ Australian company who also provide service for several other computer suppliers.

We are getting very good feedback for our service, for speed as well as quality. Most parts are kept in Australia so there is no long wait for parts to come from Asia, and the problems are so few that I can personally keep an eye on every one.

Regarding Zepto service, here is a quote received this morning from a European student who bought his notebook in Denmark last year, and is studying in Newcastle NSW.

His problem was fixed here in Australia via email support.

"Thanks a lot for your help. Can I just say it was great to see how good your service is in Australia, even though I didn't buy my notebook here"

I have to say that it is impressive that Zepto have someone responding to questions on the forum. I bet that as they get bigger this service will decrease! :P

Zepto writes...

I have contacted Denmark to get the model number and specs for the drive.

Re service, I can tell you that we have over 300 service points in Australia, naturally most in Vic and NSW. Service is contracted to United Electrical, a subsidiary of Chubb, a billion $ Australian company who also provide service for several other computer suppliers.

Thanks on both points, much appreciated. I'm asking about the drive because the one in my current Samsung laptop is a dog, to be fair I'm not sure it's a Samsung branded unit though (it's also not a DL drive).

Cheers,
Corine

Hi hopeless,

Thanks for the accolades. What can I say about the future, only that we will certainly keep trying.

I think the forum is very important as the people posting here are generally the technology leaders and the opinion makers.

That's why we had 70 pages of posts from May till now and Whirlpool moved us on the Zepto Part 2

6. December 2007

Zepto prepares 17” gaming notebook

To strengthen its market position as a leader in mobile technology, Zepto Computers is preparing its own 17” Gaming notebook. This new notebook shall, just as its counterparts in 15.4” and 14.1” formats, show what is possible in mobile platforms which the support of Intels coming mobile Quad Core platform.

Zepto reveals its intention to launch a notebook in April next year based on the latest in mobile technology in a new revolutionary design. With an estimated weight of only 3.4 kgs and a thickness of only 36 mm this gaming notebook will become the lightest and thinnest 17” notebook in the market, despite its extreme performance.

”We have had a clear goal to build further on our market leading position in the introduction of new technology first. Besides our focus on a stylish design, we have developed this notebook with leading performance and lowest weight to create the thinnest possible notebook PC. According to our customers these are key parameters whilst choosing a 17” notebook. ”, says Morten Kjærsgaard, COO, Zepto Computers A/S.

Zepto informs that the notebook will be based on the latest technology from Intel and NVIDIA, with support of Intels new 4 Core CPU’s amongst others. Introduction price is expected to start at around 1600 EURO and is meant to compete with notebooks like Dell XPS and Alienware.

For more information please contact:
Morten Kjærsgaard, COO, Zepto Computers A/S
Telephon: +45 47 37 10 22, E-mail: mkj@zepto.dk

Zepto writes...

Zepto prepares 17”

Any 12.1" ?

Sorry Railay,

Nothing smaller than 14.1" at the moment.

Hi Zepto,

While I'm waiting on the details of that Samsung burner can you tell me what materials the external casing is made from?

Cheers,
Corine

Just a fyi, 1 600 Euros = 2 675.70725 Australian dollars according to google. Thats going to be one tasty laptop.

fido666,

Here is another accolade from a customer in WA, he had a faulty AC Adapter.

Hi Nils,

Peter from Zepto in Denmark has already been incontact with me about this. I have been very impressed with the level of service that I have recieved from everyone involved.

Here are the model number for the optical drives. I will look up the technical details later and get back to you.

150030 is a Toshiba/Samsung SN-M240

150123 is a Toshiba/Samsung SN-S082

150124 is a Toshiba/Samsung SN-T082

Zepto, if I ordered a 3415W now, would I get it before Christmas? How long would delivery likely take?

And is there anywhere on the net with real life/non promotional photos of the 3415W? I just find things look completely different from product shots usually.

Thanks.

Hi Bladders,

If you order in the next 48 hours I'll guarantee you delivery before Christmas, the only thing outside of my control being Australian Customs.

No, there are no other pictures of the 3415W, but have you looked at all 10 pictures on the website. They are spot on and from every angle, and you can blow them up as much as you like for detail.

Zepto writes...

If you order in the next 48 hours I'll guarantee you delivery before Christmas, the only thing outside of my control being Australian Customs.

Is the credit card charged as soon as the order is placed, or when it's shipped?

What I can do is organize that you pay via Zepto Denmarks credit card system. They confirm the transaction but only take the money when your notebook is ready to leave the factory.

I don't have that facility here, I just use PayPal secure payment system.

I really am on the verge of ordering the 3415W, but I just don't know whether I should wait till the new year for some better technology. I don't really need a computer right now, I've just been waiting for a long time already and was hoping to have one for Christmas.

I realise this is a decision you can't help me with Zepto, but I'll get back to you and thanks for the help you've given me.

I order mine a week ago, no update nothing.
I'm getting frustrated I don't know if I get my laptop before XMAS.
Until they fix up their ordering system I wont buy Zepto again

Hi Pro Evolution Soccer,

Now, naturally I don't know who you are behind your Whirlpool name, but I think I do and I honestly don't think you are being fair.

You placed your order on Friday 30th November, you paid your deposit on Monday

Hi Pro Evolution Soccer,

Now, naturally I don't know who you are behind your Whirlpool name, but I think I do and I honestly don't think you are being fair.

You placed your order on Friday 30th November, 5 working days ago. You paid your deposit on Monday 3rd December, and Tuesday 4th December we confirmed deposit received and order confirmed for production.

Friday 7th, yesterday, you wrote to change your delivery address, which is confirmed.

We have currently had three working days. I don't know what Dell's system can tell you, but whatever it is I don't think it is much in three days.

When you placed your order you were told of the expected delivery time in number of days. We currently deliver much quicker than that but I think you need to give us a chance. There is absolutely no reason why you shouldn't receive your notebook before Christmas.

What I am complaining about is a lack of update.

I got an email said I should get an update by the end of the week

I haven't got that email and I still standing by unless a proper online ordering system in place where I can check on delivery and production update I likely not to buy from Zepto again.

I'm not saying Zepto is bad product, I just dont like the way the whole ordering process go. Next Laptop I buy and if Zepto ontop of ordering system then I will consider them.

I gave it a shot, it's not up to my expectation then I wont go back, it's a customer expectation thing and I could be a difficult customer compared to other people.

I spent a lot of money on IT equipment each year and I like to stay on top and be picky about it.

Zepto, is there a way we can get the exact dimensions for laptops?

There is a really cool place called aussie bags, and they can make custom fit bags/sleeves for laptops, I was thinking of getting one for the Zepto 6324W....

They are able to cut it to size, and I'm asking if maybe they can do a different colour... but still, awesome stuff:

This is where I found it by the way:
cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayI...trksid=p3907.m29

Hi Super Roach

If you look at the datasheet you will find it, but here it is, exactly.

27mm X 341mm x 247mm

Nils

Hi again.

As I said, we are upgrading our systems, and better feedback is one of the goals. It should be ready early 2008, but software development is always tricky so no fixed date yet.

I will get an update for you asap, but remember Denmark is 10 hours behind the Eastern States, so you won't here till late tomorrow night, which is Monday morning over there.

And I don't mind you being a difficult customer, don't get me wrong, but we are only 5 years old and growing fast, not yet another Dell. (But working on it)

Cheers

Nils

Hi Corine,

Finally, finding that information on the Samsung website was quite an ordeal.

The T082 is a Slot-in style drive with Lightscribe technology. It is 6xwrite, 8xread in dual layer

The S082 is a "normal" tray drive, 2.4xwrite, 8xread in dual layer

All Zepto's are currently made of very high quality plastic but the chassis is aluminium re-inforced for great stability and anti-twisting strenght.

Zepto writes...

The T082 is a Slot-in style drive with Lightscribe technology. It is 6xwrite, 8xread in dual layer

The S082 is a "normal" tray drive, 2.4xwrite, 8xread in dual layer

Thankyou for that, I was mainly worried they weren't both dual layers.

All Zepto's are currently made of very high quality plastic but the chassis is aluminium re-inforced for great stability and anti-twisting strenght.

OK, just interested as my current Samsung lappy is magnesium alloy.

Cheers,
Corine

Hi Pro Evolution Soccer

Thanks for your email.

Just to confirm that your Zepto notebook shipped from Denmark last night, 6 days after confirmed order.

You will receive the tracking number from the freight company (UPS) today.

Pro Evolution Soccer writes...

What I am complaining about is a lack of update.

I agree, Zepto need to step up their online ordering system.

The important thing though is you do end up with the product in the or around the time specified. Most so far are very happy with their new laptops!

Guys, I get the message loud and clear, and so does Denmark. As I said they are working on it furiously, but it is not a standard feature of an ERP software system, so it is software development.

It must be something special about the computer industry, and probably because of Dell.

I have been in the IT industry for 33 years and until I started Zepto Australia, nobody ever asked me how they could track their orders.

So we understand that Dell has set the bar for customer service.

On the other hand they are loosing market share at an alarming rate, so they are not doing everything right.

Hey Zepto,

Any news on the release date of the new refresh?

I'm eagerly awaiting ;).

Cheers.

Sorry aN, absolutely nothing.

probably good news for you zepto - the fujitsu loox r will be using the penryn chip, coming january :) so a zepto lappy should be around thenish :)

Hi Zepto, i'm thinking about getting a 6224 (probably after the refresh but i may be forced to before then) and i'm interested to know what firewire chipset you guys use. i do a lot of audio work and firewire soundcards are VERY picky about which chipset they'll work with. from what i gather Texas Instruments is the most compatible so i've got my fingers crossed thats what you use...
regards
C

I will have to ask Denmark on that one, so hang tight.

Hi Clearscreen,

The feedback from Denmark is as follows.

We are using Texas Instruments chipset for the firewire, but don't have the model number.

Denmarks recommendation is a 6625WD with the 'old' Z15004 BIOS. Many professionals are using this setup very successfully.

The newer BIOS is being set up for audio production as well, but right now the Z15004 is the best option.

Hope this helps.

Hi Zepto, thanks for the reply and the info. unfortunately i'm more interested in the 6224's size - i currently have a 15" monster but find it a bit too bulky and heavy at times... any idea when the updated BIOS will be applied across the range? the new year update maybe? i can wait a bit if necessary.
regards
C.

The 6625 bios will be released first - january has been mooted. The 6224's will be out slightly after that - apparently it's been in testing, however there are a few issues with thermal management and fan speed i believe.

I'd estimate at late january to feb.. that's just based on what i've been reading on various forums with Zepto reps :)

A new bios for the 6324W would be neat too!

I've been running in to a niggly problem that I'm not sure about with mine....

If I play any games, but more so ones like supreme commander, or call of duty 4, It'll occasionaly lock up, and pause for about a minute. It'll freeze the screen, then go black, then it will come back on. If I'm playing multiplayer and that happens, I usually have to wait for it to reconnect too.

Vista reports it as a video hardware error, and when I quit out of the game, each time the pause happened, there is a little balloon with the error.

Super Roach writes...

A new bios for the 6324W would be neat too!
If I play any games, but more so ones like supreme commander, or call of duty 4, It'll occasionaly lock up, and pause for about a minute. It'll freeze the screen, then go black, then it will come back on. If I'm playing multiplayer and that happens, I usually have to wait for it to reconnect too.

Vista reports it as a video hardware error, and when I quit out of the game, each time the pause happened, there is a little balloon with the error.

It's to do with the nVidia drivers and Vista... Fairly common... BIOS update would not really help :(
----------------------------------­ -
You are quoting significantly more words than you have written.
Consider whether you need to quote at all -- unless you are quoting to respond to a specific statement, it's usually easier to just mention who you're responding to.
Otherwise, trim the quoted passages down as much as you can.

Super Roach writes...

A new bios for the 6324W would be neat too!

6324 = 6224 in case you're not aware :) that, or i've just misunderstood what you were saying!

And yeah, for your problem, i'd be checking out different drivers etc.. i run 169.04 on my 6224 and don't have any issues at all (vista ult 32bit). Admittedly, i'm only playing teamfortress 2 however..

Epic Fail writes...

It's to do with the nVidia drivers and Vista

Oh really, well thats great news :) i'd FAR prefer it to be something like that, rather than a hardware problem :) good news!

nvrbrn writes...

6324 = 6224 in case you're not aware :)

Oh yeah, no i mean't that , release date for it sounds great too.

Good times ahead!

I found a very nice stand for that laptop as well -
img150.imageshack.us/img.../image702tl3.jpg

Having this tall is useful if you planned to put a seperate keyboard to it:
img167.imageshack.us/img.../image703ss1.jpg

Yeah, let's just confirm this one, 6224 and 6324 are completely identical, just the colour difference.

I hope zepto make the refresh in early -mid jan. :P

Yes_It's_Me writes...

I hope zepto make the refresh in early -mid jan. :P

So do I, i'm desperate for a new laptop now, but i'm waiting for the refresh as the current model does not offer all the features I need (i.e. DVI/HDMI connection).

- aNt - writes...

So do I, i'm desperate for a new laptop now, but i'm waiting for the refresh as the current model does not offer all the features I need (i.e. DVI/HDMI connection).

I worried about this same subject but once I purchased I have had little need to put my laptop onto a bigger monitor, and most monitors anyway have the VGA d-plug type.

It will be a bonus if Zepto gets something like UDI or DVI, but it's not overly important to most. Also Vista hasn't taken off, so the limitations of DRM on media streaming to through the digital connector to the monitor isn't an great issue.

I keep pressing for news, but Denmark is keeping everything very close to their chest at the moment.

You will all know 5 minutes after I find out.

May sound like trolling, but what makes this a better deal then a similarly specced Dell? I am curious, as 70 pages of discussion don't appear out of thin air, so Zepto must have SOMETHING going for them...

I just configured two machines to identical parts, warranty and OS and the dell is $1,277 while a similar Zepto is $1671, including GST on both.

For reference
A Dell Inspiron

Q541204N - Dell Inspiron(TM) 1520 Notebook
Intel(R) Core(TM)2Duo Processor T5450
Genuine Windows Vista(R) Home Premium - with AERO experience
Dell(TM) Wireless 355 Bluetooth Module
15.4" Widescreen WXGA (1280x800) Display with TrueLife (TM)
2GB (2 X 1024MB) 667MHz Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM
160GB SATA Hard Drive
Internal 8X DVD+/-RW Combination Drive with dual layer write capabilities
Integrated Intel(R) Graphics Media Accelerator X3100
Integrated Stereo Sound
Intel(R) 4965AGN Wireless-N Mini-Card
1 Year Limited with Next Business Day Onsite Service
6-cell 53Whr Lithium Ion Primary Battery
65W AC Adapter

A Zepto 3214W
Keyboard Znote 2x25 Black UK
14,1" WXGA 1280x800 - 3214W
6 Cell Battery for Znote 2225W/2425W
Intel® GMA X3100
2GB (2X1024) DDR2 667/PC5300 SODIMM
Intel Pro/Wireless 4965AGN
1,66 GHz Intel® Core™2 Duo T5450 667MHZ 2MB
160GB 5400rpm SATA Hårddisk
SAMSUNG DVD-RW DL
Microsoft® Windows® Vista Home Premium - UK

Service
Pick up & Return 1 year AUS (300452)

Cronium, part of it is their uniqueness, another part is apparantly the better warranty. Parts in the zepto laptops come out much much earlier than the dell stuff (exception now is dells 8700m cards and the like.

Anyone else care to post their 3dmark06 results? I got 3207 in 3dmark06, using default settings of 1280 x 800

*edit* ok more results:

pc wizard 08 (not a big download)

I clicked on benchmark, then the display button (looks like a screen with a paintbrush).
Once it finished, there are scores at the top. From top to bottom, in fps...:
1208 86 15 54 548 - Current zepto drivers
1193 91 17 54 571 - Latest Nvidia version

1280 x 800
3204

Updated drivers listed the resolution to be 1280 x 854? Weird.
Anyway, the newer version might be effected by that - 3385.

Again, vista 64bit, c2d 2.0 ghz/ 4gig Ram, 8600m GT 512meg (which has speeds of 475/400)

Can someone tell me why this thread is so popular?
And how does this Zepto guy fit in so much time for WP, does he do any work?

Cronium writes...

Q541204N - Dell Inspiron(TM) 1520 Notebook
Intel(R) Core(TM)2Duo Processor T5450
Genuine Windows Vista(R) Home Premium - with AERO experience
Dell(TM) Wireless 355 Bluetooth Module
15.4" Widescreen WXGA (1280x800) Display with TrueLife (TM)
2GB (2 X 1024MB) 667MHz Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM
160GB SATA Hard Drive
Internal 8X DVD+/-RW Combination Drive with dual layer write capabilities
Integrated Intel(R) Graphics Media Accelerator X3100
Integrated Stereo Sound
Intel(R) 4965AGN Wireless-N Mini-Card
1 Year Limited with Next Business Day Onsite Service
6-cell 53Whr Lithium Ion Primary Battery
65W AC Adapter

A Zepto 3214W
Keyboard Znote 2x25 Black UK
14,1" WXGA 1280x800 - 3214W
6 Cell Battery for Znote 2225W/2425W
Intel® GMA X3100
2GB (2X1024) DDR2 667/PC5300 SODIMM
Intel Pro/Wireless 4965AGN
1,66 GHz Intel® Core™2 Duo T5450 667MHZ 2MB
160GB 5400rpm SATA Hårddisk
SAMSUNG DVD-RW DL
Microsoft® Windows® Vista Home Premium - UK

Service
Pick up & Return 1 year AUS (300452)

It's not a definitive 'answer' but just a few footnotes to what you posted here...
For starters, the Zepto is a 14.1". Now while it seems counter intuitive that smaller things cost more money, it's often the case with laptops. You're fitting the same tech in a smaller space.
I admit that depending what day it is and what promo Dell are running, their 15" models will sometimes beat out a Zepto bang for buck... but I've searched just about everywhere and the 14" Zeptos are super competitive.

Also... I know this isn't much of an excuse... but about 99% of the discussion in this (and the original) Zepto thread are about their primo models, the 6225 and the 6224. And to compare apples with apples you need to compare them to the most blinged out Dell 1520, the new XPS 1530, or another one off the top of my head is the ASUS C90S.
And if you do so, what I said earlier about Zepto's 14" coming out ahead rings even more true.

Finally, in Zeptos defense... their range is now... 7? 8? 9? months old. And yeah... on a good promo day now you might look at the Dell website and wonder how much 'uniqueness' is worth in $$$. But I can tell you early in 2007 when the 6224 and 6225 were freshly released they were *the* lappies to own.

If I went shopping today, I'd look long and hard at an XPS 1530, but Dell are having supply problems with their high res screens. So... with January 2008 just days away and the Zepto model refresh due.... maybe they'll beat Dell to the punch for the laptop I buy to go back to uni with.

Should be a good couple of months for consumers.

ish.bISH writes...

Can someone tell me why this thread is so popular?
And how does this Zepto guy fit in so much time for WP, does he do any work?

It's popular coz it's full of enthusiasts, potential customers, and actual customers, and 'Zepto' (Nils) keeps it ticking over whenever he has any news.

As for your second question... I've got no idea. I don't think he sleeps much. But don't look a gift horse in the mouth. I wish every product I was interested in had reps that were so committed.
He's also pretty down to earth... he'll take constructive criticism or even give his thoughts on comparisons to other brands like I posted just above.

Whats so "unique" about them? From the pictures, they look like nearly any other laptop on the market.

Uh, did you read the above posts? Their size for one.

Maybe that Zepto guy is trying to provide some customer service. If you are not interested, why contribute?

Jimmedy has already provided some answers, but let me add a few too.

Zepto will probably never be competitive in the bottom end of the pricing segment, why?

1. All our notebooks are built from the same quality components, not sub-standard as in most cheap notebooks. The only difference is our notebooks are the specs.
2. Fact. Cheap HP, Toshiba, Acer etc. are running at 20-25% error rates and the retailers are making up the money selling extended warranty, and rental deals at 40% interest.
3. Our sweetspot pricewise is from around 2K up. The higher you spec a Zepto the cheaper it is comparatively.
4. Zepto Australia has not sold one of the cheap models.
5. Back to number one, why can't we compete in the bottom range. Firstly because of the quality as mentioned, secondly because when we build 1,000 machines, Dell probably build 50,000 so will get the goods cheaper, thirdly we are not planning to be a commodity brand. Zepto wants to retain exclusivity and for people to desire the product , not just need a notebook. Why do people buy B&O, Ferrari etc, because they don't want to be like everybody else.
I have sold a good number of Zepto's to IT Managers for their personal use.
6. Finalyy I believe my warranty and service is better than everybody elses.

Zepto writes...

Maybe that Zepto guy is trying to provide some customer service. If you are not interested, why contribute?

Yeah thats what really shocked me, congratulations, somthing you dont get anymore. Esp. after dealing with nintek :S

Cronium writes...

I just configured two machines to identical parts, warranty and OS and the dell is $1,277 while a similar Zepto is $1671, including GST on both.

As Nils mentioned, Zepto's aren't the best for low spec'd machines. For higher spec'd gaming machines in a 14.1inch form factor, i don't believe they can be beaten at this stage... HP, Dell, etc are unable to compete in this space (unless they've released something recently which i haven't come across.. quite possible!).

I also liked the configurability of the purchasing process, combined with the fact that i didn't need to purchase an operating system. Microsoft had already given me a free copy of vista ultimate and office 07, so i really didn't want to be paying a couple hundred of dollars more for it again - big selling point in my case!

Hi guys,

Anybody tried to run Call of Duty 4 on their Zepto? How does it run?

Runs Well, give me a minute and I'll edit in some screenshots.

A note - there is a major bug in the current latest (zepto) drivers that causes it to freeze randomly for about a minute. You have to source drivers from elsewhere, or wait for newer zepto ones to overcome that. Its a vista/nvidia bug btw.

Ok, the screenshots. A Zepto 6324W / 4gig / c2d 2.0ghz in the autodetect has most settings to "normal" or low. Antialiasing is at 2x, you can gain a bit by turning that off, and Specular maps on (for the look).

Because you are using a laptop, Call of Duty will always think you have a new pc or changed hardware when you start it up, possibly due to the cpu throttling and speed changes all the time. Its not biggie though.

Ok, the screenshots.
This is what it looks like with the autodetect settings:
img186.imageshack.us/img.../shot0006pa8.jpg

An example of how much better it looks with specular maps:
img101.imageshack.us/img.../shot0019ko6.jpg
img296.imageshack.us/img.../shot0018vn5.jpg

What fps are you getting?

Yeah COD4 runs very well on default settings (have not tried anything else since default looks really nice and runs smooth).

Happy New Year Nils! Hope you took a day off for it and relaxed!

Have you got any big news on the horizon for us?
Uni goes back in about a month so time is getting pressing :(

I've been hanging out for this refresh so badly. Dell just got the hi-res screens into their XPS 1530s available to order..... make me wanna choose a Zepto over it!!!! Please!!

I hope Zepto Aus launches a killer lineup and keeps going strong right through 2008!

hi,
does anyone know anything more on the new 17" penryn. like base specs, price etc

^^^

As Nils mentioned before, he'll let us know as soon as he gets the information :P

sorry i must have missed that info

Hi guys. Here is a press release from December about the 17". I didn't release it here because I felt that a release date of April was too far out to talk about.

It is believed that this will be an absolute killer notebook.

Nils

December 2007

Zepto prepares 17” gaming notebook

To strengthen its market position as a leader in mobile technology, Zepto Computers is preparing its own 17” Gaming notebook. This new notebook shall, just as its counterparts in 15.4” and 14.1” formats, show what is possible in mobile platforms which the support of Intels coming mobile Quad Core platform.

Zepto reveals its intention to launch a notebook in April next year based on the latest in mobile technology in a new revolutionary design. With an estimated weight of only 3.4 kgs and a thickness of only 36 mm this gaming notebook will become the lightest and thinnest 17” notebook in the market, despite its extreme performance.

”We have had a clear goal to build further on our market leading position in the introduction of new technology first. Besides our focus on a stylish design, we have developed this notebook with leading performance and lowest weight to create the thinnest possible notebook PC. According to our customers these are key parameters whilst choosing a 17” notebook. ”, says Morten Kjærsgaard, COO, Zepto Computers A/S.

Zepto informs that the notebook will be based on the latest technology from Intel and NVIDIA, with support of Intels new 4 Core CPU’s amongst others. Introduction price is expected to start at around 1600 EURO and is meant to compete with notebooks like Dell XPS and Alienware.

Jimmedy, Happy New Year to you too.

Denmark is only back today but I still don't expect much news yet. The official release of Penryn for notebooks is January so we need to be patient, even when timing is bad for you.

Zepto release Penryn processors.

Effective immediately the Penryn processors are available across the Zepto notebook range. The configurations are being changed as I write.

I.e. the 6625WD now is available with 6 different processors, the T8100 being the base. You can choose from the 'old' C2D Pro T7500 and T7700, and the new Penryn's T8100, T8300, T9300, T9500.

T8100 and T8300 have 3MB cache, T9300 and T9500 have 6MB cache.

Performance figures will be released shortly but the early tests indicate that compared to a T7500 C2D Pro, the Penryn's T9300, in a Zepto 6625WD run cooler, give considerably longer battery life, and higher performance across the board.

This is a great release, but it is most likely the only updates till Q2.

I hope you are excited as I am about this release.

looks great personally im looking forward to the 17" quad

The New Cpu´s are now on the AUS website, Delivery is expected to take a few extra days if selected with a brand new Intel CPU

au.zepto.com/Shop/Config...3¬ebookid=644

Available on all 6XXX series models

I sense the refresh is coming ;).

- aNt - writes...

I sense the refresh is coming ;).

........

This is a great release, but it is most likely the only updates till Q2.

Ooooh news.... though perhaps a little bittersweet ... :s

Those are some darn shiny new CPUs :) The drop in power use and heat generation is always a win.

How strongly do you know/feel/educated guess that this might be all we hear till Q2 Nils? Just wondering about the long begged for DVI/HDMI, eSATA and all that sort of jazz ...

Thanks for the update regardless! Some days I swear I could have as much fun just using the configurator as I could with the lappy actually in my hands. Heh!

Not to be a pain in the a$$ Nils...

But I've noticed while the laptops haven't fluctuated too much price wise, or if they have, it's usually a drop - small items such as the Zepto Sleeve and the Microsoft MS4000 mouse have gone up between 30% and 100%....

Those are just two items I include when playing in the configurator sometimes so I can't speak for all the other accessories...

Any reason for such a sharp price hike?

Hi Jimmedy,

I have noticed the price change on the sleeve and also complained to Denmark. Due to Christmas I haven't had a response yet. I haven'n noticed the mouse, but will follow that through as well.

On the refresh I have been told that this is it till Q2, sorry.

It'll be interesting to see whether the 17" notebook comes with the 8700m or 8800m GPU - 8800m would be awesome

Zepto writes...

On the refresh I have been told that this is it till Q2, sorry.

:( i'm quite disappointed with this. I'll have to weigh up my options if something else becomes available. Otherwise i'll wait for a price drop on the current model with the penryn processor.

Hi aNt

Yeah, I was waiting for HDMI as well, but it is apparently not happening till Q2.

Zepto writes...

Yeah, I was waiting for HDMI as well, but it is apparently not happening till Q2.

Ah OK. No problem. I'll see if I can hold out, if not I may purchase one anyway ;).

Thanks.

I priced up a 6224 earlier with a new Penryn 9300, 4gb RAM and a 200gb 7200RPM drive and when you take a step back and go 'this is all in a 14" chassis with a 512mb 8600GT in it'..... it was still a pretty good deal.

I think I'm more torn than ever! :(

Hi Jimmedy,

Yeah, I was pretty impressed too. And it gets us out of the heating issue with the T7500 and T7700'