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High Style
Expanding on the sophisticated elegance of HP's notebook design from the past few years, the new DV series is defined by fluid, modern lines and metalized finishes. The HP Intersect Imprint finish in bronze and chrome encases all surfaces visible during normal use for greater durability. And the Intersect Imprint features an argyle-like pattern for subtle contrast to the liquid appearance of the metallic finish. The streamlined look is enhanced with a color-matched keyboard and touchpad. And touch media controls light up and become visible only when the system is powered on further enhancing the clean appearance.
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The Basics
- Processor: The 2.1 GHz AMD Turion X2 RM-72 processor offers a dual-core architecture, which delivers additional computing resources to help expand your PC's capabilities by providing higher throughput and simultaneous computing--increasing your performance by up to 80 percent. You'll be able to perform multiple tasks such as digital rendering and gaming all while running virus scan or other background tasks seamlessly thanks to the innovative Direct Connect Architecture. And it's designed to handle simultaneous 32- and 64-bit computing with no degradation in performance. You'll enjoy long battery life thanks to the AMD PowerNow! power management technology, which delivers performance on demand and can extend system battery life up to 65 percent. And the AMD Digital Media XPress technology delivers stellar multimedia performance and playback on digital entertainment such as games, streaming video and audio, DVDs, and music.
It has a 1 MB L2 cache, and this processor can deliver up to 4.0 GT/sec. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance.)
- Hard Drive: The generous 250 GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 RPM) provides more than enough capacity for storing a large audio and video library, as well as extra space required for video editing. This SATA hard drive also quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to Firewire and USB 2.0.
You'll enjoy enhanced hard drive protection with HP's Protectsmart, which includes a 3D accelerometer that safeguards your data by parking your hard drive if your notebook detects any range of motion, such as being knocked off your desk, falling or taking abuse.
- Memory: The 4 GB of installed RAM helps boost the amount of available video RAM that's shared with this notebook's video card. This notebook has an amazing 8 GB maximum RAM capacity (4 x 2 GB). To receive the faster data transfer benefits of the dual-channel DDR2 RAM, any RAM additions require memory modules of same capacity and clockspeed.
- DVD/CD Drive: This multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with writing both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer (DL) DVD+/-R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. It features 4x DVD-R DL Write Once, 2.4x DVD+R DL Write Once, 8x DVD+R, 4x DVD+RW, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD-RW, 16x DVD-ROM, 40x CD-R, 24x CD-RW, and 40x CD-ROM speeds.
This LightScribe DVD+/-RW drive lets you laser-etch silkscreen quality text and images on to CDs and DVDs . Your software, PC and discs work together for a no-hassle way to burn just the labels you want. After you burn content, just flip the disc over, reinsert and burn your label--anything from a simple title to a full-disc work of art.
- Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has a 101-key keyboard and a touchpad with on/off button and dedicated vertical/horizontal Scroll Up/Down pad. It also includes two quick-launch buttons (HP QuickPlay Music and DVD).
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You'll enjoy razor-sharp graphics and widescreen movies with the 14.1-inch WXGA high-definition screen, which has a widescreen resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels--perfect for watching DVD movies the way they were meant to be seen. Video is powered by the ATI Radeon HD 3200 with RS780M chipset, which features 64 MB of DDR2 sideport memory and up to 1918 MB total graphics memory (as allocated by the operating system). The AMD 780 Chipset series lets you connect to a wide range of the latest HD panels by supporting numerous display technologies. Take advantage of ATI SurroundView to support up to four monitors. It also offers support for Microsoft DirectX 10, providing compatibility with today's most advanced and graphic-intensive games and applications.
The Altec Lansing speakers provide exceptional sound, and it also includes SRS Premium Sound. You'll be able to privately share enjoyment of multimedia with a friend via the dual headphone jacks.
Networking, Connectivity & Expansion
Be ready for the next platform in wir
eless connectivity with the integrated quad-mode Wi-Fi chip. Based on the draft 802.11n Wi-Fi specification, it offers up to five times the performance and twice the wireless range as existing 802.11g wireless. It's also backward compatible with 802.11b/g networks (commonly found in home routers and Wi-Fi hotspots) as well as 802.11a networks (which has a higher throughput, but more limited range--great for closed office environments).
It also includes a next-generation ExpressCard 34 card slot (replacing the PCMCIA slot), which lets you take advantage of thinner, faster, and lighter expansion cards for even more advanced wireless, networking, storage, and security features. It comes with the following external connectors:
- 3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players (with 1 eSATA + USB 2.0 combo port)
- 1 HDMI output (for connecting to a compatible HDTV or home theater receiver for uncompressed digital audio and video via a single cable)
- Analog video output: 1 VGA
- 1 ExpressCard/54 slot (also supports ExpressCard/34)
- 2 headphone jacks
- 1 microphone jack
- 1 Expansion Port 3 connector (for use with the HP xb3000 Expansion Base or the HP Notebook QuickDock)
- 1 IR receiver
- 5-in-1 memory card reader (Secure Digital, MultiMedia, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, xD Picture Card)
- 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet networking
- 56K modem (V.90)
Operating System
The 64-bit version of Windows Vista Home Premium (with SP1) is the operating system for users with advanced computer needs, and it includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center for watching DVD movies and accessing your digital audio library. You can also use Windows Media Center to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV) and to access new kinds of online entertainment content. Computers that include Windows Vista Home Premium and an auxiliary Windows SideShow display will also allow you to access key data even when your computer is off. It is also easier than ever to share files between other PCs in your household and to manage your laptop computer settings to more securely connect via Wi-Fi.
Every edition of Windows Vista provides the essential tools and technologies to help protect you whether you are browsing the Internet, connecting to a wireless network, or just reading e-mail. All editions of Windows Vista include new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures long before you have lost any important personal data. And, all Windows Vista editions include parental control features that allow you to manage and monitor your family's use of games, the Internet, instant messaging, and other activities.
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- HP MediaSmart Software Suite: Your one-stop multimedia and entertainment center to create photo slideshows, share personal videos, listen to your favorite music playlists and watch DVD movies.
- muvee autoProducer Basic: Automatically create professional looking home videos and burn to DVD.
- Cyberlink DVD Suite Deluxe: Automatically fix and edit videos and create CDs and DVDs. Edit, burn and archive data to discs.
- Microsoft Works 9: Includes a word processor, spreadsheet, database and calendar.
- Microsoft Office Home and Student Edition 2007 (60-day trial version).
- Adobe Reader 8: Read and print PDF files.
- Norton Internet Security 2009 protects your PC and your identity when you email, bank and shop online; 60 days of protection updates included.
Dimensions & Weight
This notebook measures 13.15 x 9.45 x 1.57 inches (WxHxD) and weighs 5.1 pounds.
Power
It's powered by a 6-cell rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which has a battery life of up to 2 hours (depending on usage).
What's in the Box
This package contains the HP Pavilion dv4-1220us notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, IR remote control, and operating instructions. It is backed by a limited warranty for parts and labor for one year from date of purchase as well as technical telephone assistance for one year. Software is also covered for 30 days from date of purchase.
Reduce your impact on the environment with this Energy Star-certified system and HP's innovative take-back options, including trade-in, recycling and donation.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
Expanding on the sophisticated elegance of the current line, the new DV4-1220US is defined by fluid, modern lines and metalized finishes with surprising innovations inside and out. The DV4-1220US Intersects Imprint features an argyle-like pattern for subtle contrast to the liquid appearance of the metallic finish. And touch media controls light up and become visible only when the system is powered on further enhancing the clean appearance. Providing more choices than ever, HP MediaSmart enables access to DVDs, videos, photos, music, games, Internet TV, and streamed or recorded TV, with an optional TV Tuner at the touch of a button. Built-in demos show you how to add music to your slide shows or videos with drag-and-drop functionality, and much more. An HDMI port enables you to watch films on an HD TV. Muvee Reveal makes creating films complete with effects and transitions a snap. Extras include dual headphone jacks and an HP Mobile Remote Control. For those who want digital entertainment features and the latest mobile technologies in a stunning design that travels well, the HP Pavilion DV4-1220US Entertainment Notebook PC delivers. Its elegant Intersect Imprint finish helps protect your system while on the go. The DV4-1220US ships with Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit, AMD Turion X2 RM-72 Dual-Core Dual-Core Processor, ATI Radeon HD 3200 Graphics RS780M with up to 1918MB total graphics memory, 4096MB DDR2 System Memory (2 Dimm), 250GB (5400RPM) Hard Drive (SATA), LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD
May 20th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
By Betty
2009-02-25
keyboard is dark gray with black letters; virtually impossible to read except under direct bright light. I had to return the laptop.
Flawed product design; HP must redesign keybord.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
By Charles
2009-02-05
This is my first laptop and I think I made a great choice. Firstly, I bought it directly from hp.com and with the rebates I had, saved two hundred dollars. Secondly, I got free 2 day shipping and it arrived on time.
The first thing I like about it is that the color is not the cheap gold look you see in the picture. I love the keyboards on HPs Entertainment and Special Edition notebooks. They do not feel cramped. There have been many cmplaints about the glare of the keyboards on this and the black and chrome models. So far, I have had no problems with the glare. Yes, I agree with the other reviewer, that the keys are hard to see in the dark. I would assume that would be the case for any laptop unless it is backlighted and this is not. It is light (wtihtout the battery), the speakers generate nice sound, it finds wireless networks instantly, and I actually like Vista. Just a note, read up on accessing the hidden administrator account if you are new to Vista. It has some serious security that will keep you from making even the most basic adjustments, including removing the bloatware.
HP has done a wonderful job in including set up tutorials and online registration processes. The size is fantastic and screen is beautiful. I have not attached any peripherals up to it yet, so I cannot really comment on that.
Cons:
The battery life is short.. maybe an hour and a half even when it in the recommended power save mode. It has a lighted HP emblem on the back of the cover that uses resources. HP could have added the backlighted keyboard instead! The verdict is still out on there telephone tech service! I have had better experience with there chat support.
The comp does sound like it is working overtime anytime I burn a CD and the vibration generating from drive is a bit too much for me to type at the same time.
This is a great laptop, esp. if you can get it for under $[...]. It has only some bells and whistles, so if you want built in bluetooth and a blueray player, you will have to go up a model. Otherwise, no reason not to consider this one.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
By Linda
2009-01-24
Performance is good, lookwise it is good and come with good features but only problem is with keyboard color…you can’t see lables/alphabets on keyboard clearly (because of bronze color) specially during night time…I am good in keyboard typing so it’s fine for me ..if you are not good in typing and can’t type without looking into keyboard then little bit you need to strugle in finding keys in keyboard.
This laptop worth it for $700….good value for money and go for it if you are comfortable with keyboard
I am unable to edit my rating …I will rate this laptop for 4 out of 5
May 20th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
By Mark
2009-04-06
I work on multiple computers. My HP DV4 is my newest computer and I can’t turn it on and use it without needing to update 3 or 4 software programs (antivirus, Java, HP software, etc.) All my computers (Vista and XP) have the same problem–endless updating, rebooting, connecting, scanning, installing, and nonsense because HP and Microsoft can’t just make something work!!! I have work to do and can’t get it done because I’m spending so much time keeping my computers running! I’m thinking about Linux because I can’t stand the unworkableness of things currently, (and have never been an Apple fan either). HP–Get rid of the CRAPWARE, and pressure Microsoft to make better software. I’m a user, and I just want things work and to work FAST!!! I don’t want to answer questions about this program or that program updating or connecting to the internet and I don’t want to take 8 minutes to boot up, update, or shut down!!! I just want to work (on my work-not updating software) on my computer, and I’d like my privacy too; thank you.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
By Linda
2009-05-14
This would be a nice little laptop but the contrast between the key color and the letters on the keys is not nearly enough to see what keys you are using. None of my people could use this laptop, even the touch-typers because they still needed to be able to see what the function keys do.(The function keys seem to be different on every laptop.) I have returned this as it is unusable as shipped and you can’t tell by the picture how hard it is to see the keys.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
By Helen
2009-04-16
This is not even close to my first laptop I get a new one at least once a year to keep up with the crazy needs of my job. I love this HP so much it is fast but you need to keep in mind that is has windows vista this will not make the laptop bad but if you hate vista you may not want this. I will say I have had lots of laptops that I have spent about 1,000USD more on that dont work as well. This is fast and will fill the needs of anyone in school it is also amazing for work and play. For the price it is well worth it. As far as the dark key issue I got moonlight white : ) so I have pretty white keys that shimmer a little. HP is always a brand you can trust even if there is a issue they will help you work through it.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
By Betty
2009-05-25
Having to return this computer right out of the box… simply cannot read gray lettering on bronze keys… HP design flaw.. otherwise would have been just the computer for me. Frustrating and disappointing. First HP product I haven’t loved!
May 20th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
By Helen
2009-06-10
This laptop works great right. It worked great out of the box. I have been using it daily for about a month and it still works great. No problems at all.
A couple reviews said they had trouble seeing the keyboard letters. I have no idea what their problem is. I can see the letters fine. Of course, most people (including me) type by touch, but when I saw those reviews I looked and the letters on the keyboard are EASY TO READ.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
By Charles
2009-05-24
The laptop is similar to so many other basic laptops in this price range from the major manufacturers that it is hard to distinguish one from another. The monitor is nice, the layout is alright and the overall feature set is not bad (camera, HDMI, remote, etc). Overall, my initial impression (just pulled out of box this weekend and spending my initial time updating, installing and removing software) are that for the money, it will do exactly what we intend it to do–surf the internet, handle last and some current generation games, watch movies and provide access while on the go. This is certainly not a desktop replacement, nor should it be treated like one.
Pros: weight, camera, OS (64-bit should be the new standard), video card (for integrated anyway), and finally the HDMI and other connectors.
Cons: lack of installation software (standard HP practice is to make you make your own copies using DVD backups, which is silly since you bought the dang license), weird molded corners that look/feel cheap, crapware (okay, HP and most other major manufacturers do this to offset the cost of the machine, which is a hassle when you first pull your new machine out of the box, but nothing that can’t be fixed using some very simple uninstall assistance–I personally like http://www.pcdecrapifier.com/ to remove all the stuff I don’t need or want).
Overall: for ~$600 with rebates and Amazon pricing it’s not a bad machine for the basics of computing while on the go or from the comfort of our couch. Great little feature set that should last you a while or at least until you’re ready to move up to a more powerful laptop for a higher price.