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The Asus A8JS

J

jedirye

Gawd
Joined
Jun 8, 2004
Messages
635
So after much deliberation, I (think I) have decided on the Asus A8JS. I was in the predicament where I wanted a 15" or so screen so it would be fairly portable and have decent battery life, yet still have good dedicated graphics card for the small gamer in me.

Specs of Asus A8JS:
14.1" WXGA (1400x900)
Core2Duo T-7200
GeForce 7700 512MB
2GB DDR2 667 (Corsair / OCZ)
100GB HD (7200rpm-Seagate)
Windows XP Professional
Internal bluetooth + high resolution webcam
Price: $1877.00 plus shipping

Let me know what you guys think. The barebones of my current desktop right now consists of:
Shuttle SN95G5V3
74gig Raptor
AMD 64 3500+
BBA X800XT AIW
2 gigs Mushkin PC3200

I really just want to play BF2142 and my current GPU bites the big one. I haven't read too much about the Go 7700 512mb version, but I'm hoping it'll at least be some improvement. I also don't want to invest as much as 3k on some XPS or Sager 17" desktop replacement as 1. I wanted portability and 2. Dx10 will eventually come out!

Oh well, let me know what you guys think!

-rye
 
you will not be disappointed with getting an Asus notebook

the build quality is just superb

and you are goingI to be able to play the games your mentioned
I have a notebook with an mobility x1600 and is about the same performance as that 7700

and is able to play games at decent settings
 
My buddy has the a8jm, which is the same notebook except it has a Yonah CPU and the 7600. It handles BF2 (neither of us have 2142) and WoW just fine and the build quality seems great. I'm ready to sell my XPS2 and get one myself.

BTW, where did you get one with internal bluetooth? I want that!
 
Nice find on that Newegg deal but the HDD is only 5400rpms, I think that's why I overlooked it.

Eh? How will that affect the performance?

-rye

EDIT: Also, that one lacks the internal bluetooth.
 
It seems like all the versions of this I've seen so far are kind of a "default" model like the one newegg has. Even xoticpc sells basically the same thing, and with few upgrade options.

Seems like 7200 RPM is nice to have but not a deal breaker from what I've read. In the market for a new lappie and I have to say the A8Js is looking very appealing at this point. Price is very reasonable compared to the competition as well.
 
I don't know, dude. I mean for $400 more you get 2 gigs of RAM, a 7200rpm hdd, and the internal bluetooth. Seems worth it to me, no?

-rye
 
jedirye said:
I don't know, dude. I mean for $400 more you get 2 gigs of RAM, a 7200rpm hdd, and the internal bluetooth. Seems worth it to me, no?

-rye
Click to expand...
I think so...where did you find it with those options?
 
jedirye said:
I don't know, dude. I mean for $400 more you get 2 gigs of RAM, a 7200rpm hdd, and the internal bluetooth. Seems worth it to me, no?

-rye
Click to expand...

Only maybe for the bluetooth module. It seems tough to find one for purchase separately and I know will work with the A8Js's Bluetooth on/off button. The other parts are *much* cheaper if bought separately:

100gb 7200 RPM - $150:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16822146226

Extra 1gb SODIMM - about $100:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...dimm+667&Submit=ENE&N=0&Ntk=all&Go.x=0&Go.y=0

rye, where did you get the quote in your OP? I want to check out what Bluetooth module they're installing for you.
 
Actually it's just a different model that's got the bluetooth in it exclusively for North America. If I did order this, I'd order from www.milestonepc.com where I could customize it that way, etc. I like them as a reseller because they are active on most of the forums I was browsing and were eager to help you with problems, etc. They just seemed overall friendly. If you can find that base model (with bluetooth) for cheaper, they'll match the base price also. I've been having trouble doing that, because the one at xoticpc which is $1551 (milestone pc is like $1650) but it wasn't the one with bluetooth................... :mad:

-rye


EDIT: By the way, their RAM is either Corsair or OCZ so at least they use quality products.
 
bassman said:
Only maybe for the bluetooth module. It seems tough to find one for purchase separately and I know will work with the A8Js's Bluetooth on/off button. The other parts are *much* cheaper if bought separately:

100gb 7200 RPM - $150:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16822146226

Extra 1gb SODIMM - about $100:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.asp?DEPA=0&type=&Description=1gb+sodimm+667&Submit=ENE&N=0&Ntk=all&Go.x=0&Go.y=0

rye, where did you get the quote in your OP? I want to check out what Bluetooth module they're installing for you.
Click to expand...
Only problem is I'm sure the 1gb installed is actually 2 512MB sodimms. So, to upgrade to 2gb you'd need to buy 2 1gb sticks (I'm assuming the MB will do dual-channel, otherwise you won't need the matching sticks, and completely disregard my post :) )
 
KidzMD said:
Only problem is I'm sure the 1gb installed is actually 2 512MB sodimms. So, to upgrade to 2gb you'd need to buy 2 1gb sticks (I'm assuming the MB will do dual-channel, otherwise you won't need the matching sticks, and completely disregard my post :) )
Click to expand...
Numerous descriptions I've read in the past few weeks say it is 1x1024 with one free slot. I don't think ASUS makes that claim though so i wouldn't bank on it.

Also Newegg dropped it yesterday!!! :mad:
We apologize for the inconvenience, but the item you are looking for has been deactivated....
Click to expand...
 
This A8Js is awfully tempting. I've had my V6Va for about 9 months and I'm itching for more power. Mine has the Pentium M 750 + ATI X700, which won't run my 24" LCD at native resolution (1920x1200) or play BF2, BF2142 or FEAR at anything above the most basic settings. I like the DVI and 7700 Go in the A8Js. I probably could put off my purchase of a new desktop by a year if I get an A8Js. The only thing that gives me pause is the extra weight. My V6 weighs just over 5 pounds whereas the A8Js is about 2 pounds heavier. Still, my right hand is creeping slowly towards my Mastercard...
tongue.gif
 
KidzMD said:
Only problem is I'm sure the 1gb installed is actually 2 512MB sodimms. So, to upgrade to 2gb you'd need to buy 2 1gb sticks
Click to expand...
fishbulb said:
Numerous descriptions I've read in the past few weeks say it is 1x1024 with one free slot. I don't think ASUS makes that claim though so i wouldn't bank on it.
Click to expand...

The descriptions are correct. My buddy's A8Jm from Newegg came with 1x1024 and a free slot, so I can vouch for the claim. (At least on the A8Jm, anyway.)


fishbulb said:
Also Newegg dropped it yesterday!!! :mad:
Click to expand...

Doh!
 
jedirye said:
Actually it's just a different model that's got the bluetooth in it exclusively for North America. If I did order this, I'd order from www.milestonepc.com where I could customize it that way, etc. I like them as a reseller because they are active on most of the forums I was browsing and were eager to help you with problems, etc. They just seemed overall friendly. If you can find that base model (with bluetooth) for cheaper, they'll match the base price also. I've been having trouble doing that, because the one at xoticpc which is $1551 (milestone pc is like $1650) but it wasn't the one with bluetooth................... :mad:
Click to expand...

Thanks for the tip. I found milestone's page with the bluetooth model. Now I just have to decide if internal bluetooth is worth $200 over eWiz's price. ugh.


jedirye said:
By the way, their RAM is either Corsair or OCZ so at least they use quality products.
Click to expand...

That's good to know. The egg has Corsair and OCZ 1GB SODIMMS for around $100 and milestone wants $129. I guess $30 isn't too bad if milestone will still handle warranty service for you.
 
Mr. Wolf said:
The only thing that gives me pause is the extra weight. My V6 weighs just over 5 pounds whereas the A8Js is about 2 pounds heavier.
Click to expand...
Whoa, I was wrong on the A8Js weight. It's actually the same as my V6Va!!!!

I think it's time for an early Christmas present... to ME!!!
biggrin.gif
 
I was going to get this model, but then I was going to wait for the G1's to come out. Then I found out they're still using the 945 chipset, so I went back to Newegg to get the a8js. Saw the price and went browsing.. saw they had a special w/ $200 off the f3jm. So needless to say I jumped on the f3jm even if it is a little older. :)
 
^
What about the G1? I think that's the one I've decided on. They are taking pre orders over at MileStonePC. It's pretty much the A8JS but with some bells/whistles and even roughly the same price. The only drawback? 5400rpm hdd. It would be perfect if it had a 7200rpm drive... which bugs me.

-rye
 
jedirye said:
^
What about the G1? I think that's the one I've decided on. They are taking pre orders over at MileStonePC. It's pretty much the A8JS but with some bells/whistles and even roughly the same price. The only drawback? 5400rpm hdd. It would be perfect if it had a 7200rpm drive... which bugs me.

-rye
Click to expand...
You sure about the price? I think the G1 is several hundred more than the A8Js. The G1 is also bigger and heavier. Too bad Asus couldn't find a way to squeeze a 7800GTX into the G1. I'd be all over that!

I'm just about ready to get an A8Js, myself.
 
Mr. Wolf said:
You sure about the price?
Click to expand...


I just went to MileStonePC and I configured the A8JS exactly the same as the G1 and it was within $70 dollars. Keep in mind though the G1 has the 15.4" screen and also a 160gb hdd as opposed to the A8's 100gb. All in all the G1 is perfect for me, I just need to get MileStone to upgrade the hdd to 7200rpms and it would be perfect!

-rye
 
OOOO! The G1 has a WSXGA screen. Does anyone know if the version milestone is selling comes with Bluetooth?
 
^
Do me a favor and explain that screen to me and how it is better.

Also, I would like to know as well if it comes with Bluetooth. It just says optional... although when you pre-order, there's no option to get it if it doesn't!

-rye
 
jedirye said:
^
Do me a favor and explain that screen to me and how it is better.

Also, I would like to know as well if it comes with Bluetooth. It just says optional... although when you pre-order, there's no option to get it if it doesn't!

-rye
Click to expand...
I THINK that means it'll be 1680x1050 instead of a lower res like most 15.4" screens, but as usual in my case, could be wrong.
 
enlightenedby42 said:
I THINK that means it'll be 1680x1050 instead of a lower res like most 15.4" screens, but as usual in my case, could be wrong.
Click to expand...

Nope, you're not wrong.

I want a 1680x1050 for non-gaming tasks (word processing, programming, graphics, etc). I wonder how well the 7700Go performs at that res... I don't mind running games at non-native resolution (I do it on my XPS2 all the time), but native usually gives better image quality.
 
icehole said:
There are several resellers that will let you customize the A8Js including geared2play
Click to expand...
Well, for those interested, they currently have the base unit for $1519 plus you can add bluetooth for $79.
 
clairis said:
can anyone tell me why i would want bluetooth on my laptop? !23j1
Click to expand...

I use it mainly for Internet access through my cell phone while I'm on the road. I refuse to pay $50 for a cable that should cost $10 and I hate dealing with cables anyway. I also use a Bluetooth mouse. That's why I want Bluetooth; I don't know why *you* would... ;)
 
clairis said:
can anyone tell me why i would want bluetooth on my laptop? !23j1
Click to expand...
If you don't like wired mice, or you want a wireless mouse that you don't need a dongle for, get bluetooth. There are also a variety of other peripherals you can use with it as well. If you don't need alot of wireless peripherals, you likely don't need it. I know I had bluetooth in my last laptop and in all honesty, I never used it...I had a wired mouse and headphones and that's all I needed.
 
Has anyone been watching ewiz stock on the A8js? It is not even listed now, but they seem to have had the best deal through pricewatch, around 1440 shipped. Just wondering if anyone had seen it go in and out of stock there at all..

Thanks
 
genericdvd said:
Has anyone been watching ewiz stock on the A8js? It is not even listed now, but they seem to have had the best deal through pricewatch, around 1440 shipped. Just wondering if anyone had seen it go in and out of stock there at all..

Thanks
Click to expand...
Noticed that as well. it's a hot seller right now. Seems to be running out of stock most places. I finally broke down and pick up one from geared2play for 1519 while they were available.
 
How is the heat on the A8JS?

I'm torn between A8JS or something with less power.

My main concern is noise and heat. My sister has a 13.3" Sony Viao that gets hot as Hell and when he fan kicks in is extremely loud.

So, how does the A8JS handle heat?
 
It doesn't run very hot, provided you don't block any of the vents. Sound issues are minimal.

"The machine is also virtually silent in what I've done so far. Granted I haven't done anything too demanding, but I can't hear it at all. It's been on for about two hours and neither palm rest is even warm. Portable One said that this machine has a really efficient cooling system, and I may be starting to see why."
quote source


"I'm noticing that it is getting a little warm around the upper right corner of the touchpad area, and the palmrest areas I general are kind of toasty just typing, but it isn't annoying.

The DVD drive is noisy, but it isn't terrible. It does, however, noticably vibrate the laptop. There's no rattling or shaking, but when you put your hands on the palmrest, you can feel the internals vibrating. Once again, it doesn't seem bad enough to seriously worry about, but it is kind of annoying.

Update: After several reboots, a game installation, and some light gameplaying, there has been no excessive heat or noise issues.
When the game was being installed, the DVD drive was relatively loud, but it did not do the louder grinding sound I had heard earlier.
Update again: Another install, and more use, and I actually haven't even noticed the DVD drive again. "
source


"Heat and Noise

Now heat and noise, or lack thereof, are pretty important to me. Since the A8Js has so much power in such a small package, I worried that a tradeoff for all that power would be large amounts of noise and heat making using it on my lap a risky affair. My old Compaq Presario laptop sounded like a 747 jet, and that was just while typing. The A8Js is blessedly silent with only some hard drive access noises which I find sort of reassuring anyway. I tried gaming for a while but all I got out of the A8Js was a low whir -- definitely nothing that would turn heads in a fairly quiet lecture hall. As for heat, it’s been on for hours now doing both demanding and easy tasks and it is somewhat warm but not uncomfortably so."
source


All feedback thus far shows the a8js is quite and works just right according to the many posters here. Sorry i can only tell you to live with it an use it. If you do have a problem that others can confirm and it is not solved by a windows restoration i would be glad to spend my time on. As i sit here i see no problems with the fan or noise on a fresh rig.
source Please note that a bunch of complaints in that thread are from n00bs who have never owned a laptop before. They don't know what an acceptable noise level is.
 
markt435 said:
i dunno bout you but i think that is a horrid looking laptop lol
Click to expand...
I could do without the lights and I'm sure that glossy black would need constant cleaning.
Even so, if it had better battery run time I'd seriously consider it.

I almost purchased the A8JS but decided I wanted a 15.4" so now I'm looking at the F3Jm-AP012P. But by the time I add 1GB of RAM and buy a bag it gets to within $250 of the G1 which comes with all that and more.
 
markt435 said:
i dunno bout you but i think that is a horrid looking laptop lol
Click to expand...

I could do without the green accents on the webcam, the lights, and the green on the WASD keys, but other than that I think it's just fine.
 
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