Intel Retailedge 2008 (2 purchase programs this year?)

[amdmaxx]

Just came back from an Intel Event, looks like 2 programs this year, one in Spring (soon) and usual one in the fall.. I didnt get more infiormation about the srping program.
Anyone knows what it is gonna be?
I did hear that you can buy some small stuff from the web site soon with your reward points.. But I wouldnt wanna spend a lot of points and end up without a bundle in the fall.
I hope someone has more information.

[Viscero340]

A little birdie told me that one of the purchase deals would involve a centrino chipset. In other words a laptop.

Take it with a grain of salt though as I have absolutely 0 proof.

[amdmaxx]

Laptop would be hot!!
But who will co-sign with Intel to deliver laptop.. Lenovo? We just had an Intel/Lenovo conference..

[bobwrong]

This could rock...could be interesting to see how they price a laptop deal eh?

[amdmaxx]

I wouldnt mind paying $700 for $1000+ Lenovo laptop, that Y510..

This could rock...could be interesting to see how they price a laptop deal eh?

[Blackjack988]

Guess i better get back on this then...

[jwhazel]

But I wouldnt wanna spend a lot of points and end up without a bundle in the fall.
I hope someone has more information.

I have a strong feeling that if this is true, Intel will make it rather easy to participate in both if you keep up with it monthly. Hell, they practically give these points away. I mean, if you kept up with it monthly last year, wouldn't you have close to double points as what the highest package was? Even people who registered in late october were eligible. Not saying they won't change it, but I believe intel wants you to buy there crap. I'm sure the points will be a-plenty this year.

[SirKronan]

I have a strong feeling that if this is true, Intel will make it rather easy to participate in both if you keep up with it monthly. Hell, they practically give these points away. I mean, if you kept up with it monthly last year, wouldn't you have close to double points as what the highest package was? Even people who registered in late october were eligible. Not saying they won't change it, but I believe intel wants you to buy there crap. I'm sure the points will be a-plenty this year.

It pays off for them! My last two builds have been 100% Intel. Before that I used AMD in all my builds! Because of all the trainings I took and benchmarks I saw, I knew that the new core processors were the way to go. I bought a laptop with Core duo processors, bought the core quad for my build from the retail edge program, and bought another Core 2 duo for my dad's new build. The next few builds I do will probably feature intel processors as well. I have no problem giving them my money right now because of the quality product they're putting out. Working in electronics, I have no problem pushing intel on all my customers, either. They overclock better, they're more power efficient overall, and will serve my customers better in the long haul versus similarly priced AMD counterparts at the moment. I have learned much about their products via the trainings. I admit that many of them are silly and could be presented more efficiently, but overall they put a lot of information on the Retail Edge site.

When they do a purchase program for their sales reps in their retail partner stores, they just get us even more hyped up on our stuff. When we have good experiences with the company and their products, we will gladly and enthusiastically recommend their products more often. I have sold way more Intel products of late vs. AMD products, and so far I haven't regretted it. Intel is doing something incredibly smart by providing incentives for employees to train and experience their products first hand.

It's a bit of a risk, because if a reseller has a bad experience, he could turn away potential buyers because of his negative experience. But if Intel is confident in their product, it makes sense to promote it however they can.

As for the Spring purchase program, I can see them doing something with an E8400, or maybe even the Q9450, unless of course it's a laptop package.

[Erasmus354]

There is a [H]ot Deals Discussion forum for a reason....

[SirKronan]

There is a [H]ot Deals Discussion forum for a reason....

How do we get this moved there without losing what we've already started?? Can you do that and hotlink it for us please??

[Erasmus354]

How do we get this moved there without losing what we've already started?? Can you do that and hotlink it for us please??

As soon as the a moderator sees this thread he should move it, or you could ask him to move it now.

[SirKronan]

Anymore details out yet, from those of you with intel connections???

[amdmaxx]

There is a meeting this Sunday in West Nyack, NY.. Gonna try to get more details..

[dlaxman31]

I'm going to subscribe to this. I'm curious about everyones opinion. I could use a Spring purchase program. I mean I graduate this coming Spring so I need something before I quit my retail store and get "real" job.

[Viscero340]

Anymore details out yet, from those of you with intel connections???

Heard another rumor that they are looking at opening up the purchase program where you can spend your allotted points on possibly anything at the intel online store too.

[SirKronan]

There is a meeting this Sunday in West Nyack, NY.. Gonna try to get more details..

Oh do tell!! Thanks for checking for us, bro! (amdmaxx, lol, checking up on intel for us!):p

Heard another rumor that they are looking at opening up the purchase program where you can spend your allotted points on possibly anything at the intel online store too.

WHEEEEE!!!

[dlaxman31]

sounds good to me!!

[dlaxman31]

thought I'd bring this back any new word on anything?

[amdmaxx]

See the action-adventure blockbuster Iron Man the night before it opens! And get the latest scoop on Intel technology, a bag full of sweet swag and maybe even take home one of several cool raffle prizes. You can receive up to 2,000 Retail Edge Chips for attending this event and completing the on-line survey. Popcorn and soda snack provided for the movie. Registration starts at 9:30 pm. Doors open at 10 pm. AND get your employment pre-verified for the next Intel purchase program. Program details will be announced at this event. Bring a pay stub or direct deposit bank statement that is less than 30 days old to be pre-verified. This is a Retail Edge Program Members Only Event.

[MeXPuNk3r]

Site now says that a new program will be introduced next month...
http://www.scpunk.net/random/omgintel.jpg

[dlaxman31]

Anyone have any idea what kinda program it will be and also what the product will be? I have registered for the Columbia Movie event in hopes of getting out of class on Thursday night on time and able to get back to the home in order to see this movie and also get my points.

[tuffgong]

Do you qualify for this if you work at Target? I don't but I know someone who does...

[RussianHAXOR]

Target is a No-Go.

[mavalpha]

New Rewards Program, but the big text just says new site. Don't get too excited just yet...

(Yay, 9450 points for me- no live events yet!)

[dlaxman31]

New Rewards Program, but the big text just says new site. Don't get too excited just yet...

(Yay, 9450 points for me- no live events yet!)
How to the heck do you have 9450 points. I only have like 6850 without taking the latest challenge.

[amdmaxx]

monthly tools, 4 logins per month, surveys and ALL the quizes on time and u should be around 8k-10k
I hope new program is really nice..

[mrw1986]

Official email from Intel:

Update from the Edge: The Purchase Program has an Intel Extreme Processor in it this time.

[bobwrong]

Official email from Intel:

When did you get this email? Just wondering what else it said....;)

[mrw1986]

Had info about the upcoming live event, the preview of Iron Man the night before release.

[dlaxman31]

I'm hoping for something nice also. The last program I was able to build a pretty nice machine for under 600-700. Hoping to do that same.

I have 8250, what does everyone else have?

[joblo37pam]

I just got an email that they are cutting back on the number of approved businesses that will work with this. No more "Chain not listed". This sucks. I own a computer store and have used this program to build demo/testing machines.

[fellows]

Damn, if they are in fact giving out Extreme Editions it will probably be from the Q6xxx series, and probably not the sweeter Q94xx's.

Whatever, I'm patiently waiting for December to make a new rig, and I'm going to the IronMan event so I can judge Intel on their free swag

:)

[SirKronan]

Damn, if they are in fact giving out Extreme Editions it will probably be from the Q6xxx series, and probably not the sweeter Q94xx's.

Whatever, I'm patiently waiting for December to make a new rig, and I'm going to the IronMan event so I can judge Intel on their free swag

:)

Ugh. I'm so jealous of you folk who live close to where Intel does events. I'd be there every time if it wasn't at least a 4 hour drive, usually more like 10 hours. I live in Idaho!! Argg...

[mrw1986]

They will indeed be the newer series...judging off of previous years and them always giving us the newest hardware

[dlaxman31]

Nice I hope its the Q94xx series. I could use that for my new build. If anyone can find out more details about the new purchase program this year ask alot of questions. Won't be able to make Ironman, have a final the next day and can't drive home 3 hours to get more info.


Bummer

[Excelsior]

I'm hoping for something nice also. The last program I was able to build a pretty nice machine for under 600-700. Hoping to do that same.

I have 8250, what does everyone else have?

I have 8125. I must have missed some extra points from logging in one month or something. I've done everything I could do. Still plenty of points. Hell,I started with 0 last October and managed to get the Premium bundle.

Me and a couple of guys are going to the Iron Man event this Thursday. If no one else has posted by then, I'll post any info I find out.

[mavalpha]

Expecting to break 12K Friday morning. :) Bring on the Purchase Program!

[Excelsior]

How do you have so many points?

[dlaxman31]

How do you have so many points?

I think hes talking about the extra points you will get from the Ironman event. Also maybe logged in and did all the possible articles that you could do. Not sure how he has more then I do but I might have missed some of the articles.

Needless to say I think I will have enough points for the new purchase program.

[theDreamer]

My friend has ~10,000 and said he will break 12,000 after Thursday.

[mavalpha]

Yep, 9950 already. When I log in to do the survey Friday morning, I'll be at 12050.

Don't forget the bonuses:
100 points per day for four days every month just for logging in.
400 points per month for the toolbox.
Articles are only 250 points for the month they are recent, then they drop to 125.
1000-point challenges, same thing. Then only 500.

I've stayed current since January.

[Excelsior]

I think hes talking about the extra points you will get from the Ironman event. Also maybe logged in and did all the possible articles that you could do. Not sure how he has more then I do but I might have missed some of the articles.

Needless to say I think I will have enough points for the new purchase program.

Well we only get 2000 for the event.

Don't forget the bonuses:
100 points per day for four days every month just for logging in.
400 points per month for the toolbox.

I must have missed out on the toolbox thing for the first three months, and some logins. My Bonus Chips count is at 2500. Probably should be 3900 or something. Oh well, I'll have enough for both purchase plans, if there are indeed two...

[mavalpha]

I feel jipped... Presentation sucked, and only got 500 points for the survey. Where did they get the 2000 from?! I'm at 10550 now.

On the plus side:
Iron Man ROCKED!
New site goes up Monday.
Two QX bundles, but with mixed news. One person told me QX9650 or QX9770, another told me either QX6700 or QX6850. I wish they'd get their stories straight.
Laptop is the Lenovo IdeaPad Y510 (http://shop.lenovo.com/SEUILibrary/controller/e/web/LenovoPortal/en_US/catalog.workflow:category.details?current-catalog-id=12F0696583E04D86B9B79B0FEC01C087&current-category-id=ED26332647C64CF9940904A568CE7DC8): C2D, 2GB DDR2, 160GB HD, 15.4" widescreen, Vista HP. Not sure which one, but I heard a rumor that it would be the $699 one offered for $499.

Edit:
Oh, if I understood correctly...anyone who's averaged at least 1K points per month for the past year, will be eligible to be a moderator on Intel's Enthustiast forums. I could be wrong about that part, though...

[Excelsior]

Just got back from the event. Iron Man is pretty good. Anyways.


New site (and program) will be out on May 5th. It will have levels of achievement based on # points. The higher the level, the more access you get to the Intel store and first dibs on the purchase programs.

There are indeed two this year. One is a Lenovo Y510 with 2GB of ram and 160GB HD w/ Vista Home Premium. The other is a Core2 Extreme processor (two models were mentioned) but I am not truly positive about them. The rep mentioned QX6850 and QX6700...so we'll see.

Two QX bundles, but with mixed news. One person told me QX9650 or QX9770, another told me either QX6700 or QX6850. I wish they'd get their stories straight.

Exactly.

and only got 500 points for the survey. Where did they get the 2000 from?! I

Yeah, WTF!?

[dlaxman31]

Thank you gentlemen for giving us the needed information about last night. I'm hoping for the QX9xxx series. I mean heck honestly I'd take anything for a huge discount. Kinda pumped for the new site to get the max points.

[mrw1986]

Movie was actually pretty good. I'm stoked about this years bundles!

[amdmaxx]

Great movies, great news about the purchases..
It did say up to 2000 points, I am a rockstar and only got 1000 point for the survey and handed in the smelly survey.
Anyone got 2000 from the survey?

[mavalpha]

Great movies, great news about the purchases..
It did say up to 2000 points, I am a rockstar and only got 1000 point for the survey and handed in the smelly survey.
Anyone got 2000 from the survey?
Me=confused. :(
Also a rockstar, and only got 500... :mad:

[CrazyRob]

I just completed my survey and got 2000 points, so did one of my coworkers. I had a gold grab bag, he had a white. seems to be random how many points you get.

[dlaxman31]

Any more updates with the Bundels? How big of an "event" was this at the theather. Was there a good turn out? I'm from the Baltimore, Maryland area and was just curious.

[SirKronan]

Any more updates with the Bundels? How big of an "event" was this at the theather. Was there a good turn out? I'm from the Baltimore, Maryland area and was just curious.

Yeah. Any word on pricing for the processors?

[Excelsior]

Any more updates with the Bundels? How big of an "event" was this at the theather. Was there a good turn out? I'm from the Baltimore, Maryland area and was just curious.

Well at the Charlotte event about 160 people showed up, but Intel said 283 people had signed up. They had so much extra pizza.

I doubt we'll get any updates until May 5th. One of the reps said thats when the real detailed info will be released.

[Excelsior]

Yeah. Any word on pricing for the processors?

I heard $250ish from the rep.

[mavalpha]

Thank you for contacting the Intel(R) Retail Edge Program team.

We have located and are working on correcting an issue with the incorrect amount of Chips showing up. It is our intention for all Program members to receive their correct amount of missing Chips added by Tuesday (May 6, 2008) at the latest.

If you have not received your Chips by that point, please, let us know.

I heard $250ish from the rep.
I heard about $160 for the lower QX, and about $230-250 for the higher one. And about $500 for the laptop.

[SirKronan]

I heard about $160 for the lower QX, and about $230-250 for the higher one. And about $500 for the laptop.

NO WAY. That's sick. Man I love Intel. Not only do their processors rock the house right now, but they really take care of their reps. I've sold four high end XPS desktops with Intel Q6600's this week alone, along with many laptops at my local BBY. I upsold one couple from a Phenom 9500, which is quite slower and a lot less overclockable. As long as Intel provides a superior product, that is what I will push my customers toward so they have a better experience.

Even some of Intel's budget processors are a good buy vs. their AMD counterparts. The only thing Intel needs to improve on IMMEDIATELY is their graphics. I wish they would make a kick butt IGP instead of wasting time with Larrabee or w/e it's called right now. AMD is really pulling ahead in the IGP with their new 780i platform. There isn't anything better out right now for the HTPC. I've tested the Intel 3xxx series and nVidia's weak offerings, and right now AMD is walking all over them with the 780i. I'd like to see Intel and nVidia compete in that mainstream segment before they tackle the graphics giant.

That aside, they are the processor king right now. To snag an extreme processor with an unlocked multi for 250ish .... I'm not going to be able to sleep for the next few nights.... :eek:

[Excelsior]

NO WAY. That's sick. Man I love Intel. Not only do their processors rock the house right now, but they really take care of their reps.

Hell yes they do. I used to consider myself not a fanboy, but hell, I am totally one now. While my store sells more AMD computers than Intel, I've never even seen an AMD rep in any fashion.

[SirKronan]

Hell yes they do. I used to consider myself not a fanboy, but hell, I am totally one now. While my store sells more AMD computers than Intel, I've never even seen an AMD rep in any fashion.

Well, my particular store is getting more and more intel, including more Quads!! Yay! Not bad for your big box stores. Especially dominant is the presence of Intel in laptops, where they outnumber AMD processors right now. And all our Macs on the shelf have Intel, of course.

[Excelsior]

Well I work for a different retailer. I wish we carried more intel though .Seems like all of our low-end stuff is AMD while our high end is Intel (makes sense...).

[dlaxman31]

I heard about $160 for the lower QX, and about $230-250 for the higher one. And about $500 for the laptop.


I'm liking the sound of that. I currently work in a smaller market for my BBY and I'm moving to a larger one. I have yet to see any type of rep for Intel or AMD. I'm curious to see something from my newer bigger store.

[amdmaxx]

Round 1: ROCKSTARS BECOME ELIGIBLE TO PURCHASE THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS:
Lenovo IdeaPad* Y510 with Intel® Centrino® Mobile Technology - $499 (USD)
And/or one of the two processors:
Intel® Core 2 Extreme Processor QX6850 - $239 (USD)
Intel® Core 2 Extreme Processor QX6700 - $199 (USD)

[hazard_one]

no 45nm?! i guess its still a good deal...i was hoping for 45nm though

[theDreamer]

no 45nm?! i guess its still a good deal...i was hoping for 45nm though

That might be later in the year, hopefully.

[Excelsior]

Yeah...I guess I don't see much of a reason to upgrade to the 6850 from my 6700, especially since I don't OC. I might get that laptop though...or just save up my points for the later program or the store.

[EnderW]

where do you go to see the processors you can buy?

[amdmaxx]

June 2nd... Purchase program opens.

[SirKronan]

4.0GHz + BABY
KACHINGA!
KACHINGA!!

[mavalpha]

New info is up for June. Point trade-ins have begun, but we can't buy the "Big Deal" stuff until mid-June or later, depending on level; Rock Stars get to buy laptops and chips on the 17th. I'm at 20,300 right now, watching the BSG episode after work tonight (:(), eagerly awaiting a chance to buy my new laptop. :)

I feel like the point-values for items are grossly inflated- anyone else feel that way?

[hazard_one]

i think theyre just trying to move the crap. the deals arnt that great...

[theDreamer]

i think theyre just trying to move the crap. the deals arnt that great...

Nope, but I will take the QX6850 for the new system I am just about to finish building. Even though the 45nm CPUs are out I still think this will be a fine CPU for the next few years.

[hazard_one]

so youre saying theyre NOT trying to move the crap that people wont buy because theyre at ridiculous prices?

[theDreamer]

so youre saying theyre NOT trying to move the crap that people wont buy because theyre at ridiculous prices?

They are moving some things out, but makes it a good deal for us, which I am happy since I am finishing up a build and this will be a nice addition.

[dlaxman31]

so am I getting this right they aren't packaging a motherboard and windows vista with the program?

If not then thats a bummer.

[Modred189]

I will be jumping on that laptop, for sure. Rockstar status ftw.
As a result, I will be selling my laptop (see sig). ;)

As for the proc's, I got last year's bundle, and so far the Q6700 is running awesome for me. No need to upgrade at all any time soon, as I cannot see any games becoming cpu limited in the next year or so.

In terms of the point-purchasing thingies, they are WAY inflated. I had over 20,000 points at the end of last year, and I was given 3k to start as a result, so I am over 12,000 right now. Still, any of the good stuff is not available yet. I have been with the program for 3 years, should have better options than:
-A dopey looking beanie
-a movie I've never heard of
-a retailing t-shirt (wtf?)
- a giant decal for my laptop (worth like $15)

Give me a break, guys.

[SirKronan]

20k for a leatherman... does seem a little high. I'm in an area that's over 9 hrs away from the closest live events. Impossible to go with my 2 yr old son. I barely have 13k points and I want the processor. If I get the Q extreme I won't be getting the sweet leatherman. I wish it was like $15 and less points or something like that.... I could use a genuine leatherman too, but I'd rather have the proc.

[Modred189]

20k for a leatherman... does seem a little high. I'm in an area that's over 9 hrs away from the closest live events. Impossible to go with my 2 yr old son. I barely have 13k points and I want the processor. If I get the Q extreme I won't be getting the sweet leatherman. I wish it was like $15 and less points or something like that.... I could use a genuine leatherman too, but I'd rather have the proc.
You don't use the points on the processor, though, you just have to have enough points for that level.

[badz24]

so am I getting this right they aren't packaging a motherboard and windows vista with the program?

If not then thats a bummer.
I would like to know this also. I dont really need ether. But thats part of what made it such a good deal

[amdmaxx]

So if someone buys a leatherman and gets their point total to around 0 after the purchase, they wont be eligible for laptop/processors deals this deal since there is no way no how they will be able to make up the points total?
Also, will they lose their rockstar status since they wont have any points?

Question 2) What size is that USB drive in the shop?

The Dark Knight movie night event is UP on the site..

Also, the windows/mobo combo is coming probably with 2nd purchase in november/december.. This 1st purchase is Intel closing shop on 65nm Processors and a laptop.. BTW, Pc World reviewed the y510 in July issue.



You don't use the points on the processor, though, you just have to have enough points for that level.

[Modred189]

Getting the points gets your the status, you don't lose status by spending points.

[dlaxman31]

I think I'm going to wait for the later purchase and just hope for the best. I'm not trying to pay $200 for a CPU I'm not going to use. I mean I already have the Q6600.

Ahhhh well

[amdmaxx]

My guess P45 Mobe, 3.0Ghz Penrin and Vista Home premium for Rockstars around November..

[Modred189]

My guess P45 Mobe, 3.0Ghz Penrin and Vista Home premium for Rockstars around November..
To be honest, I think i may pass. I just don't have any reason to get them. the laptop is tempting though.

[mavalpha]

Anyone else buying anything from the store? Or doing raffles? I'll probably just hoard all my points and get a leg up on the Fall program- nothing too great this time around. :(

[dlaxman31]

yeah this purchase program is sorta slow to be honest.

[SirKronan]

yeah this purchase program is sorta slow to be honest.

That's actually a dang nice laptop... and an extreme processor? Oh wow what could i do with a TRUE and an unlocked multi....

[dlaxman31]

That's actually a dang nice laptop... and an extreme processor? Oh wow what could i do with a TRUE and an unlocked multi....

I'll agree for the price the laptop isn't bad, but not something I need. The processor I don't need when its not that much of a performance bump from where I am right now. Maybe just for my situation it isn't much.

Also last year we got the motherboard and CPU and vista for the price that we are paying for just the CPU. Maybe I'm just greedy :D

[SirKronan]

I'll agree for the price the laptop isn't bad, but not something I need. The processor I don't need when its not that much of a performance bump from where I am right now. Maybe just for my situation it isn't much.

Also last year we got the motherboard and CPU and vista for the price that we are paying for just the CPU. Maybe I'm just greedy :D

It wasn't an extreme though.

[sardonic.n7]

I shoulda been doing stuff since this winter, but i've been lazy & am way behind.

The QX6850 is tempting, but i need to save my chips in the hopes the options this fall will be better.

Rather see an Extreme Edition Q9000 series :P

[hazard_one]

yeah i hope i dont have to valid the employment again during the fall

[theDreamer]

yeah i hope i dont have to valid the employment again during the fall

Employment stays verified for 90 days, then it needs to be re-verified.

[pmshop]

Originally Posted by dlaxman31
I'll agree for the price the laptop isn't bad, but not something I need. The processor I don't need when its not that much of a performance bump from where I am right now. Maybe just for my situation it isn't much.

Also last year we got the motherboard and CPU and vista for the price that we are paying for just the CPU. Maybe I'm just greedy

Originally Posted by SirKronan
It wasn't an extreme though.

Hey everyone, back again for this purchase.
Dudes, the chip alone is a fantastic deal
Who cares if we got a MoBo and Vista last year for the same price.
Check pricewatch.com - a reputable vendor (like New Egg) STILL wants ofver $1,000 for the QX6850

Just found the bad news though:
Hey, remember how we announced the Big Deal would be starting next week? Hmmm... well, we sort of ran into a couple snags here at Big Deal HQ. Don't worry, it's still happening. But, unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, we have to delay the start date a bit.

[mavalpha]

Yep, postponed indefinitely. Jerks- I already sold my old laptop in anticipation of this! :mad:

[theDreamer]

I decided to jump on the Fry's deal and just got a Q9450 for ~250 and am very happy with it. I also got the email of the delay and this is just getting pathetic.

[lord_farfig]

Those bastards!

I actually have a build waiting for the QX6850... I was all excited to get to purchase it today and now I can't! Grrrr...

Maybe I'll just have to grab a Q9450 as theDreamer did...

[pmshop]

How long does that special run dreamer?
Can't find the info on the site.

[theDreamer]

Ummm....I found it in the Fry's ad on Friday, it may have been only a 4th of July (Weekend) sale.

[pmshop]

damnit

[pmshop]

you still have the ad?

[pmshop]

nevermind - found it in the Dallas paper - 3 day only

[pmshop]

as you can tell by the signature, I couldn't wait. Got the Q9450 Micro Center for $299 +tax
OMG runs like a dream!

[dlaxman31]

sucks you guys have to wait a bit longer.. not going to purchase anything now. Waiting till later. I'm pumped for Dark Knight though.

[lord_farfig]

sucks you guys have to wait a bit longer.. not going to purchase anything now. Waiting till later. I'm pumped for Dark Knight though.

Indeed. I'm in the same boat now too. I was all excited about the QX6850, but I just bought a Q9450, because I'm so impatient. Heck was is another $60 for a CPU when I've already spent a couple hundred bucks on a new board, ram, case, PSU, and other stuff.

Hooray for Dark Knight!

[Modred189]

Definitely looking forward to Dark knight.

Here's a question I have: For those of us that bought the package this winter, is anyone getting the QX6850?
To me, it seems a waste of money over the Q6700. I mean, I have mine OC'd to 3.25ghz, temps are great (35 C Idle and 48 load under OCCT, 30minutes), and I am sure I could go farther, but there's no need, really, for any game out there.

Is anyone who got the Q6600 or the Q6700 getting either of the two new ones? (To use, not sell of course)

[badz24]

im looking at getting it and putting the q6700 in my wifes computer

[dlaxman31]

Definitely looking forward to Dark knight.

Here's a question I have: For those of us that bought the package this winter, is anyone getting the QX6850?
To me, it seems a waste of money over the Q6700. I mean, I have mine OC'd to 3.25ghz, temps are great (35 C Idle and 48 load under OCCT, 30minutes), and I am sure I could go farther, but there's no need, really, for any game out there.

Is anyone who got the Q6600 or the Q6700 getting either of the two new ones? (To use, not sell of course)


I'm not see no need in the difference. Still have the stock Intel board so I can't overclock it at all. BAH humbug.

[sardonic.n7]

I run my Q6700 @ 3.5 GHz...

Not likely that i'll be getting that much farther with the QX6850 really, but it'd be fun to have an unlocked multiplier to play with.

[mrw1986]

Won a QX6850 at the event on Thursday in the giveaway! So excited!

[Kenworth]

Won a QX6850 at the event on Thursday in the giveaway! So excited!

Which location did you go to?

[mrw1986]

Waterbury, CT

[Modred189]

By the way, for anyone who missed the Dark Knight event, July 31st, the BigDeal comes online for rockstars....

[mavalpha]

Laptop is ordered. :)

[AthlonXP]

so what overall is the deals again??

[mavalpha]

Lenovo IdeaPad Y510
C2D 2.0GHz
2GB DDR2
250GB HD
DL DVD+/-RW
X3100 Video
15.4" WXGA Glossy
Vista Home Premium
$500

And either:
QX6700, $200
QX6850, $240

[AthlonXP]

nice deal. anyone willing to get me one of those chips??

[sardonic.n7]

Sure, you can have my QX6850 for $500, half of MSRP ;)


Seriously though, i ordered my QX6850 the other day...we'll see if it clocks better than my Q6700...i kinda doubt it actually, but only time will tell.

[dlaxman31]

Let me know when someone gets their chip and I'm curious to see the results.

[SirKronan]

Wow. I love Intel. The day I faxed my papers in, I was verified two hours later!!! Ordered that night ... will let you know when I get it, tee hee hee. :D

[ignoramus]

Have any of you Moviestars got a tracking number? I ordered the night it was available at 12:00 AM but have yet to receive tracking. How about you Rockstars how long did it take?

[mavalpha]

Rockstar, still awaiting tracking. Ordered 9:01am of the first morning, according to their logs.

[ignoramus]

Damn I was hoping to get it sometime soon. This is sad.

[SirKronan]

What the freak?? They already charged my friend and I who recently order, but the stuff hasn't even shipped yet??

For shame, Intel... definitely not status quo.

[silent-circuit]

I continue to wish I could get in on these things...

[sardonic.n7]

I continue to wish I could get in on these things...

Get a crappy retail job like the rest of us & stop wishing ;)

I just received my QX6850 this afternoon.

Going to wait to install it till i get a new PSU i'm also waiting on, & then the OCing party will begin.


Say hello to my little friend.

http://ense7en.com/pics/QX6850/box.jpg
http://ense7en.com/pics/QX6850/label.jpg

[mavalpha]

Yep, laptop was waiting for me when I got home after work. :) I like it! (Oh, and welcome the return of the IBM you-can-feel-the-keys-being-pressed keyboard! :D)

Man, that face recognition looks weird...

As a mod:
I don't have to remind you guys, anything purchased through this program is NOT to be resold for one year. This goes for the QX6700, QX6850, and the laptop. In fact, you should still have your G33/Q66/Q67 bundle from November. Anyone breaking this rule will get a minimum one point infraction, and habitual offenders will get vacations.

[[21CW]killerofall]

I still have my Q6700 running at 3.2GHz so I can't really justify getting a QX6850 as my video card (8800GTS 320 at 1920x1200) is my bottleneck (as well as my mobo only having PCI-E1) and I have no use for a laptop esp if I can't play games on it. My computer is portable anyway as I have carrying straps for both my desktop and 24" monitor, however I do actually need a power outlet if I want to use it for more than 10 minutes as my UPS is only 450W.:D

[SirKronan]

Yep, laptop was waiting for me when I got home after work. :) I like it! (Oh, and welcome the return of the IBM you-can-feel-the-keys-being-pressed keyboard! :D)

Man, that face recognition looks weird...

As a mod:
I don't have to remind you guys, anything purchased through this program is NOT to be resold for one year. This goes for the QX6700, QX6850, and the laptop. In fact, you should still have your G33/Q66/Q67 bundle from November. Anyone breaking this rule will get a minimum one point infraction, and habitual offenders will get vacations.

You betcha. My Core 2 Quad is still kicking strong, and the motherboard is working great in the computer I am typing on right now. (I used the motherboard to make a computer for my dad, but didn't sell it ... that's ok, right?? It's still in the family, and as I'm visiting my dad right now, I'm actually typing on it as we speak...)

Nice to see some of you getting your stuff in. Hopefully my processor is waiting for me when I get home.... :cool:

[dlaxman31]

Very curious to see the end result of this computer. Now wondering if I should have gotten the laptop to just use around the house and also maybe for the parents. Ehhh

[Deathsp1t]

I just got my QX6850 installed, but have not gotten it to boot past 3.15 GHz :mad:

Oh well it's still an upgrade from the E6600 i had.

[MeXPuNk3r]

I just got my QX6850 installed, but have not gotten it to boot past 3.15 GHz :mad:

Oh well it's still an upgrade from the E6600 i had.

What are the rest of your specs?

[SirKronan]

I just got my QX6850 installed, but have not gotten it to boot past 3.15 GHz :mad:

Oh well it's still an upgrade from the E6600 i had.

I have my Q6700 from last year at 4.0GHz right now, mostly Windows stable, with a TRUE on my new PQ5-Pro ... scary voltage (1.6+) but I'm dialing it down now to find my best 24/7 settings. Intel Retail Edge FTW!!!

What board are you using it on, and what cooling?

[sardonic.n7]

3.7 GHz (http://ense7en.com/pics/QX6850/QX6850%20@%201.4v%2010x370%20P95%207%20hrs%20Blend%20stable. jpg) (1.4v)

http://valid.x86-secret.com/show_oc.php?id=403178

[SirKronan]

3.7 GHz (http://ense7en.com/pics/QX6850/QX6850%20@%201.4v%2010x370%20P95%207%20hrs%20Blend%20stable. jpg) (1.4v)

http://valid.x86-secret.com/show_oc.php?id=403178

Nice, and on 1.4 volts! What were your temps at load?

[ignoramus]

Got my laptop and processor! The laptop is pretty nice but I wish it was a little cheaper.

[SirKronan]

Got my laptop and processor! The laptop is pretty nice but I wish it was a little cheaper.

Yeah, we had a compaq at best buy with a 200gb hard drive, 3gb ram and a dual core turion for 450, but the lenovo is a much better notebook. They make quality stuff, and the 2.0GHz core 2 will obliterate the dual core turion in the cheapy compaq, even with 2gb instead of 3. But who on [H] doesn't know how to cheaply up it to 4gb anyways?

[sardonic.n7]

Nice, and on 1.4 volts! What were your temps at load?

We don't talk about that. :p

It's been insanely hot here lately, so it's running very warm.

This thing is running 10-15C hotter under load than the Q6700 @ the exact same voltages.

I also need to try reseating & maybe use AS5 this time.

I used ICD7 for my Q6700, which worked a little better than AS5, but either this chip is convex/concave, just runs hotter (most likely), or my application of ICD7 this time somehow was borked.

[SirKronan]

We don't talk about that. :p

It's been insanely hot here lately, so it's running very warm.

This thing is running 10-15C hotter under load than the Q6700 @ the exact same voltages.

I also need to try reseating & maybe use AS5 this time.

I used ICD7 for my Q6700, which worked a little better than AS5, but either this chip is convex/concave, just runs hotter (most likely), or my application of ICD7 this time somehow was borked.

Weird. I would expect it to run as hot, but not hotter. Maybe liquid cooling ... or lapping is in order? The TRUE with Noctua awesome fans... Have you got them push-pull?

[Deathsp1t]

I have my Q6700 from last year at 4.0GHz right now, mostly Windows stable, with a TRUE on my new PQ5-Pro ... scary voltage (1.6+) but I'm dialing it down now to find my best 24/7 settings. Intel Retail Edge FTW!!!

What board are you using it on, and what cooling?

Sig has system specs.

It was mainly an OS issue that has been resolved since then (upgraded to x64), but still cannot get a decent overclock out of it.

Although I got it to load windows at 3.85Ghz, it crashes after 10 mins or so.

My old E6600 was at 1600Mhz FSB with the Vcore around the 1.55v range but it was stable 3.6Ghz, now it gets weird after i go over the stock 1333FSB.

Any thoughts appreciated.

[strife1012]

I'm staying mATX, best idea ever, since I'm going to Iraq, it will be easier to ship over there.

Is anyone upgrading their MB and getting a mATX, I am thinking of one of these:

LANPARTY JR P45-T2RS

http://us.dfi.com.tw/Product/xx_product_spec_details_r_us.jsp?PRODUCT_ID=6155&CATEGORY_TYPE=LP%20JR&SITE=US

or wait for the upgrade LANPARTY JR P45-T3RS

Asus P5QL-EM

http://www.asus.com/products.aspx?l1=3&l2=11&l3=699&l4=0&model=2246&modelmenu=1

eh, guess the G45 even in its crippled state may work.

[jbcrash911]

Are there people still waiting for their items to be shipped? I received the Laptop last week, but my CPU still hasn't shipped yet!!!!

[MeXPuNk3r]

Are there people still waiting for their items to be shipped? I received the Laptop last week, but my CPU still hasn't shipped yet!!!!
I never received a shipping notification. I got the processor this past Tuesday, my order number was in the low 200s.

[strife1012]

Geez, I hope mine ships sometime in the next 3 weeks.

Maybe its good for me to wait until it shows up at my door.

Order Number: 27XX

My new possibility whenever I get my Proc:

DFI LP Jr P45 T3RS DDR3 CrossFire Micro ATX Motherboard
http://www.motherboardpro.com/DFI-LP-Jr-P45-T3RS-DDR3-CrossFire-Micro-ATX-Motherboard-p-660.html

OCZ Reaper HPC 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM 1333
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820227293

[SirKronan]

Sig has system specs.

It was mainly an OS issue that has been resolved since then (upgraded to x64), but still cannot get a decent overclock out of it.

Although I got it to load windows at 3.85Ghz, it crashes after 10 mins or so.

My old E6600 was at 1600Mhz FSB with the Vcore around the 1.55v range but it was stable 3.6Ghz, now it gets weird after i go over the stock 1333FSB.

Any thoughts appreciated.

So when you go back to the E6600, it doesn't even run as well as it used to? I had the EVGA 680i before I "stepped up" to the 780i. The 680i was an overclocking monster. Both my first and second 780i boards were pansies for overclocking my quad core. I know that there are some substantial longevity problems with nVidia's chipsets running high overclocks on memory and processor for long periods of time, but normally dual cores were easier on the board than quad cores. 1600 should still be doable on the dual core with a little extra juice to the north bridge.

I will say that all four nVidia chipset boards I've owned have substantially worse vdroop than the much cheaper P45 board I have now. I only ever used quads on them, but now my 780i has graduated to my wife's office computer. What a shame for an "enthusiast" system to be demoted to office duty with a 3450 radeon so my wife can watch her hi def TV while she works.

I just want to clarify that I understand your situation correctly. Your E6600 now performs worse than it did before after overclocking the QX on it? What were the highest voltages you used to OC your extreme processor?

[SirKronan]

Geez, I hope mine ships sometime in the next 3 weeks.

Maybe its good for me to wait until it shows up at my door.

Order Number: 27XX

My new possibility whenever I get my Proc:

DFI LP Jr P45 T3RS DDR3 CrossFire Micro ATX Motherboard
http://www.motherboardpro.com/DFI-LP-Jr-P45-T3RS-DDR3-CrossFire-Micro-ATX-Motherboard-p-660.html

OCZ Reaper HPC 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM 1333
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820227293

You sure you have to have DDR3 and mATX? You open up a whole lot of cheaper good boards to the table if you can do a regular ATX board, and save a lot of money if you can do without the DDR3. I do a lot of video editing and I play RTS games that hog ram, so for me 8GB of DDR2 is more affordable and faster than 4GB of DDR3. But it depends on what you play. 8GB won't help most FPS games, and the DDR3 (ever so slightly) might boost them a tad.

As far as overclocks go, I always just use the best ratio to get the most out of my processor and ram. You can get some low latency DDR2 that'll hit 1200 really nice these days, without breaking the bank.

Here's a similar DDR2 motherboard to the one you picked, but a bit cheaper since it's ddr2.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813136055

[strife1012]

I like that one too actually, I donno, I may keep my current G33 for the 6850 and move my q6700 over to the Intel motherboard.

[mavalpha]

What do you guys think of your laptops? I like Veriface, but it never scans me correctly in the morning- not sure if it's lighting or my half-sleeping mugshot. Also, the keyboard is weird; it has great feedback, but it skips every five or six keys when I start typing at my natural speed.

I'm half-tempted to reinstall the OS and ditch all the factory stuff, but the camera is just so tempting!

[mavalpha]

Anyone using the laptop with an external monitor? I've got mine hooked up to a 24", but it gets noise/static at just about any res. Trying to figure out if it's a problem with the laptop or weak internal graphics.

Also getting frequent IE crashes when opening more than three tabs. Still thinking about reinstalling, unless one of you says the monitor static isn't normal.

[strife1012]

I knew they were reject/refurbed laptops. Never like Think Pads anyways

[SirKronan]

I knew they were reject/refurbed laptops. Never like Think Pads anyways

I've always liked Think Pads. I doubt they're reject laptops. If you're having problems contact Lenovo and see what they'll do for ye.

Anyone using the laptop with an external monitor? I've got mine hooked up to a 24", but it gets noise/static at just about any res. Trying to figure out if it's a problem with the laptop or weak internal graphics.

Also getting frequent IE crashes when opening more than three tabs. Still thinking about reinstalling, unless one of you says the monitor static isn't normal.

I've never had monitor static on any size monitor, no matter how big the screen size (up to 24") or how wimpy the internal graphics are. Static is usually do to weak connections or interference of some kind. There may be loose wires or pins somewhere. Does the same cable do it on other monitors? How about different monitors on computers other than your new Lenovo?

[mavalpha]

I've always liked Think Pads. I doubt they're reject laptops. If you're having problems contact Lenovo and see what they'll do for ye.



I've never had monitor static on any size monitor, no matter how big the screen size (up to 24") or how wimpy the internal graphics are. Static is usually do to weak connections or interference of some kind. There may be loose wires or pins somewhere. Does the same cable do it on other monitors? How about different monitors on computers other than your new Lenovo?
Same laptop causes static with a different cable, on a different monitor (Samsung 940MW, Gateway FPD2485W).

I've had static with all my recent IGP builds, which is the only reason I'm hesitating. My dad's workstation (GeForce 6100/6150) does it on his 19" widescreen. We're both running Vista, I've never had a chance to see if XP does the same. The Gateway is fine with an older desktop, albeit running XP.

[strife1012]

Anyone get any Processors in? What Order Number is everyone?

27XX nothing in yet.

[animosity]

Order 32XX, not a word from them yet. But they have charged me for the the processor. Thanks Intel!

*Edit

Nvm, got mine today when I got home from work. They didn't send me any shipping information. I ordered mine on August 15th.

[strife1012]

Got mine yesterday. At least they are faster this year then last

[animosity]

How dumb is this. They send me email confirmation it has shipped the day after I've received it. SILLY INTEL.

[SirKronan]

How dumb is this. They send me email confirmation it has shipped the day after I've received it. SILLY INTEL.

ROFL.

[mavalpha]

As a mod:
I don't have to remind you guys, anything purchased through this program is NOT to be resold for one year. This goes for the QX6700, QX6850, and the laptop. In fact, you should still have your G33/Q66/Q67 bundle from November. Anyone breaking this rule will get a minimum one point infraction, and habitual offenders will get vacations.
Still issuing a lot of warnings, for some reason. Enough people have been warned, just going point/vacation-mode for future offenders.

[SonicTron]

Question

I signed up and I took a quiz, twice, and it did not give the 500 points it said it would give. I'm still at 450 pts. I tried waiting a day and it still doesn't give me the points for completing the quiz. Am I doing it wrong?

[Asgard_Thor]

how exactly does this work, I am interested

[Modred189]

how exactly does this work, I am interested
Get hired at a retailer that sells computers.

Sign up at retail edge.com

Take quizzes, earn points.

Buy cheap stuff.

[dlaxman31]

Get hired at a retailer that sells computers.

Sign up at retail edge.com

Take quizzes, earn points.

Buy cheap stuff.


That pretty much sums it up.

[[21CW]killerofall]

Has anyone heard if there will in fact be a Fall purchase program and if so what might be in it?

[SirKronan]

killerofall;1033121871']Has anyone heard if there will in fact be a Fall purchase program and if so what might be in it?

There will likely be a processor or proc/OS combo for Dec. Jan. ... likely. Don't know for sure yet, but sources are "hinting"

[dlaxman31]

There will likely be a processor or proc/OS combo for Dec. Jan. ... likely. Don't know for sure yet, but sources are "hinting"

Good god I hope so I wouldn't mind getting something nice on my hands again.

[amdmaxx]

Q8300, Home Vista Premium and Intel X25 solid state drive.
Processos choice is terrible IMO, they should have chosen I7 basemodel ($289 MSRP), but Intel probably needs every one they make to fulfill the marker orders first.

[AthlonXP]

Q8300, Home Vista Premium and Intel X25 solid state drive.
Processos choice is terrible IMO, they should have chosen I7 basemodel ($289 MSRP), but Intel probably needs every one they make to fulfill the marker orders first.

well that sucks, hope its cheap though.

[SirKronan]

Q8300, Home Vista Premium and Intel X25 solid state drive.
Processos choice is terrible IMO, they should have chosen I7 basemodel ($289 MSRP), but Intel probably needs every one they make to fulfill the marker orders first.

What the .... that processor is worse than the Q6700 they did two years ago....

Well, I guess by worse I mean slower. It's probably a good efficient, cool chip, but meh.

[brokenarrow03]

+1 for meh, my rig is only a year old so I will probably pass this one up

[EnderW]

they always sell the old chips
last time it was 65nm quads instead of the new 45nm penryns
now it's penryns instead of i7

[Blue Fox]

Hmm, SSD sounds good. Hopefully they'll have some ridiculous price for it (under $300?).

[SirKronan]

they always sell the old chips
last time it was 65nm quads instead of the new 45nm penryns
now it's penryns instead of i7

Old chips, yes, but old good chips. The Q6700 and Q6600 weren't the new penryns, but they were freaking hot as hell KICK-A processors that overclock like nobody's business.

Q8300 - 4MB cache, 2.5GHz, and my guess on the multi is 7x. Lame.

Q9400 or older Q9450 would be excellent.I don't mind old, I just want it to be good. Now I suppose if they sell it to us for 50 bucks ... hehe.

[EnderW]

Old chips, yes, but old good chips. The Q6700 and Q6600 weren't the new penryns, but they were freaking hot as hell KICK-A processors that overclock like nobody's business.

Q8300 - 4MB cache, 2.5GHz, and my guess on the multi is 7x. Lame.

Q9400 or older Q9450 would be excellent.I don't mind old, I just want it to be good. Now I suppose if they sell it to us for 50 bucks ... hehe.

yeah I guess it is kinda lame
should at least done a Q9300
but like you said, we don't know the price yet
and also depending on the price, the SSD could make up for it

[Modred189]

I was hoping for an alpha or beta build of Windows7. THAT would have been awesome.

[SirKronan]

I was hoping for an alpha or beta build of Windows7. THAT would have been awesome.

Lol. Maybe next Christmas .... :p

[dlaxman31]

I'm curious about theh SSD also. Anyone know how fast you can load windows xp or vista off a SSD drive?

[sardonic.n7]

New bundle is epic fail other than the SSD, & that'll only be decent if they don't rape us on the price.

Q8300 though lol...seriously. :(

[SirKronan]

New bundle is epic fail other than the SSD, & that'll only be decent if they don't rape us on the price.

Q8300 though lol...seriously. :(

Shoot. If it's fifty bucks I'll take one. I mean they sold us the Q6700 for $229 with an OS and a motherboard when said processor retailed for $500, said motherboard retailed for $130, and said OS retailed for $100.

500+130+100 = $730

229/730 = 31.4% retail

Q8300 will be $224 retail.

$224 x 31.4 = $70

So I exaggerated a bit, but according to math of the past if they sell just the processor it should be about $70 to be a "good deal." If the processor's any sign I hope they forget another stupid motherboard. They will not likely set us up with a good board when they're throwing a processor like that at us.

And as a side note, if they followed the math used in the last accommodations (buy an extreme processor - processor only) that would bring the price to even less than $70.

So we'll see. If it's fifty bucks I'll buy one. If it's $229 for the Q8300, Vista home premium, and a very non-enthusiast motherboard ... I will laugh at them, then pass.

I just don't know why they'd ship a lame processor when their SSD's are supposed to be "killa" compared to the competition. The 8300 won't be "killa" not like the 66/6700's were (oh wait, still are!)

My 2.134234364 cents.

[Modred189]

I am really glad I jumped on the Q6700 offer. I just quit BestBuy yesterday, and other than the SSD's, I can't see that I missed much.

[SirKronan]

I just got confirmation via official email. It's going to be the Q8300 for sure, with an Intel motherboard and Windows OS.

Meh. Will depend on price. If it's $100 for the whole thing, it's ok. $200 would be a slap in the face to faithful Intel resellers.

[amdmaxx]

u forgetting X25-M SSD..

[dlaxman31]

Yeah what does everyone think the price will be for the X25-M SSD??

I'm hoping something worth while even with this whole recession period hahah

[SirKronan]

u forgetting X25-M SSD..

The email indicated that that was separate. I was just referring to what it takes to get the proc.

[Zorn]

I'm super looking forward to the SSD. I really really hope they allow us the choice of 2.5" or 3.5" , I want to put it in my new Macbook Pro.

[92miata]

thanks for saving me money intel. i got a lenovo laptop and the 1st deal qx6850 that i have running at 3.8 or something like that stock. but this new one bores me to tears. i want high end. and it is also hard to recommend amd over intel. until now.

wow. i guess the economy sucks for everything/everyone

will be passing this year for the first time ever!

wow, just wow.

:(

[TS28]

Wait, so is this not going any more? :(

[SFaznSpEEdSTeR]

I would greatly appreciate it if it is possible for someone to hook me up with the QX6850 deal and shoot me a PM

Thanks!

[dlaxman31]

^^^ hahahahaha

[SirKronan]

THEY DID IT !!!! THEY DID IT!!!!

I LOVE YOU INTEL!!!! HAHAHAHA!!!!! :D:D:D

I don't know how many of you emailed Intel, but I KNOW I DID!

And they LISTENED TO US! Sorry about the allcaps but look at the updated bundle:

Q9300 Processor
P45 Extreme Motherboard
Windows Vista Ultimate (first 1200) or Home Premium
And Farcry 2 (first 1200)

Packet 2 is an 80GB SSD. Looks like people with insane points will be able to get BOTH bundles.

The Q9300 isn't the most extreme, but it's better than the 8200. YAY for Intel. (I would've still liked a 9400 or 9450, but hey, depending on price the 9300 will do the trick!)

[EnderW]

so if you're a rockstar you get both bundles?

[Reanimation_LP]

Ugh, the mainboard uses DDR3 though.

So I still have to buy a new mobo to build my rig. Happier with the Q9300 than the 8300.

I want to get DDR2, as its a crapton cheaper.

[EnderW]

I'm super looking forward to the SSD. I really really hope they allow us the choice of 2.5" or 3.5" , I want to put it in my new Macbook Pro.
X25-M means 2.5"
Intel SSDs only come in 1.8" and 2.5"

[SirKronan]

X25-M means 2.5"
Intel SSDs only come in 1.8" and 2.5"

Yep. Won't have any trouble putting it in a Macbook Pro. Hopefully the Mac will take it, too, although I don't see why it wouldn't.

If that SSD is a killer price .... whew. I'm excited about this now. I can do more monster overclocks with my Q6700, but power consumption and heat will go down drastically with the Q9300. I run 3.66GHz 24/7 settings on my processor now. I'm sure the Q9300 will easily do that, but with much lower temps and voltage. Plus I'll get the 45nm performance boost.

I don't know what the elf I'm gonna do with that motherboard .... DDR3 makes me less excited. Snap.

[SFaznSpEEdSTeR]

^^^ hahahahaha

WTF are you laughing about?:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

I am merely asking if anyone would kindly hook me up and all you can do is laugh...

Keep up the great work being a d-bag, now go shoot yourself...:rolleyes:

[EnderW]

WTF are you laughing about?:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

I am merely asking if anyone would kindly hook me up and all you can do is laugh...

Keep up the great work being a d-bag, now go shoot yourself...:rolleyes:

^^^ hahahahaha






















sorry, couldn't resist

[EnderW]

anyone feeling generous and want to let me use their purchase code for the SSD?
thinking about putting another one in my desktop

[SirKronan]

WTF are you laughing about?:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

I am merely asking if anyone would kindly hook me up and all you can do is laugh...

Keep up the great work being a d-bag, now go shoot yourself...:rolleyes:

Chill out. I, too, thought you were kidding with your QX6870 processor post.

[dlaxman31]

I was laughing at the issue of why would you purchase it off of someone else when its almost a year old chip.

But besides the point. Not trying to crap the thread. Great job intel with the build.

SirKronan... you going to change everything up on the build you made last year?

[SirKronan]

I was laughing at the issue of why would you purchase it off of someone else when its almost a year old chip.

But besides the point. Not trying to crap the thread. Great job intel with the build.

SirKronan... you going to change everything up on the build you made last year?

Yeah. My Q6700 is a freaking balls to the wall insane good processor. I'm still using it in my main rig, and I've pushed the living daylights out of it.

Did I tell you I hit 4.0GHz Vista stable with it?? And on air, nonetheless?? Took 1.7v :eek:, but the processor is still kicking strong and stable today. I run 3.66GHz as my 24/7 on 1.5v. Thing runs cooler and better on this P45 board than it ever did on any nVidia chipset I've ever had!

Just for fun I overclocked the pants off my new GTX 260 maxcore ... and boy does it go far. I haven't even found the true max yet. I also bumped my processor up to 3.8. It yielded me a 3dMark06 score of 18,460!!!!

This Q6700 is truly golden. I will only replace it with the 9300 for the improved thermals and lessened power consumption. My total system power consumption at completely maxed load is over 500w!! I measured! So far my Antec 650 has been faithful and true, but that's a huge load. Four hard drives, two opticals, a ton of fans, and a 1GHz overclock on a quad (with 8GB of OC'd ram) really pull some power. The 9300 is enough more efficient (plan on running it at 3.6 or 3.66 if FSB will allow) that it will justify the cost in power savings in a few years. It will consume between 30-60% less power than my Q6700, depending on settings, and if I can get that speedstep or efficiency crap on the board to kick in without sacrificing stability.

I have no use for a DDR3 board, but we'll see where prices are. I'll keep it and wait. Also, I'm hoping the 9300 will make my 780i happier. I'm not excited to go back to that chipset, but since I've got an nVidia card now, I wouldn't mind having a completely ESA system. The software monitoring and thermal control is very nice on that board, and if it does 3.6 100% stable I'll be happy. Should do that no problem.

As a side note, I just ordered Fallout 3, RA 3, and some other goodies via retail edge. And I still have 13,000 points left. I LOVE YOU INTEL!

[dlaxman31]

How many points do you guys have??


with the new quizzes I'm up to 24,150

[EnderW]

How many points do you guys have??


with the new quizzes I'm up to 24,150
only 9150, but I'm a Rockstar so don't see any reason to do any more

[TS28]

Is it too late to register and get enough points to do this? And what is the cost of the bundle? Sorry to be such a noob, this is my first time hearing about this.

Oh wait...Looks like I have to work at a computer store kinda thing :(

[SirKronan]

I had over 31,000 before I started buying things. Anyone spring for the princess lea poster yet? :p

[dlaxman31]

Is it too late to register and get enough points to do this? And what is the cost of the bundle? Sorry to be such a noob, this is my first time hearing about this.

Oh wait...Looks like I have to work at a computer store kinda thing :(

Yeah you have to work at a retail store that is supported by intel (IE best buy, circuit city (if your lucky enough muahahah), Micro center, Frys, etc.)

Also you might be able to get enough chips for the purchase program. Not sure give it a try. Good luck.

[dlaxman31]

Check out the email I got from BBY


"What you can get

* Option 1: Holiday bundle available to Rockstars ($259), Moviestars ($279) and Producers ($299).
o Intel Core2 Quad Q9300 processor
o Intel P45SG Extreme Series motherboard
o Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate (first 1,200 purchasers only) or Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium (does not include Service Packs)
o Plus a limited number of copies of Far Cry 2 (first 1,200 purchasers only).
* Option 2: Holiday bonus available to Rockstars ($399) and Moviestars ($419) only.
o Intel X-25M 80GB Solid State Drive
"

Man Not sure if the SSD is worth 400. Not too shabby with the q9300, board, and such. I'll try and be part of the first 1200 people. I wouldn't mind Far Cry 2

[SirKronan]

Check out the email I got from BBY


"What you can get

* Option 1: Holiday bundle available to Rockstars ($259), Moviestars ($279) and Producers ($299).
o Intel Core2 Quad Q9300 processor
o Intel P45SG Extreme Series motherboard
o Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate (first 1,200 purchasers only) or Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium (does not include Service Packs)
o Plus a limited number of copies of Far Cry 2 (first 1,200 purchasers only).
* Option 2: Holiday bonus available to Rockstars ($399) and Moviestars ($419) only.
o Intel X-25M 80GB Solid State Drive
"

Man Not sure if the SSD is worth 400. Not too shabby with the q9300, board, and such. I'll try and be part of the first 1200 people. I wouldn't mind Far Cry 2

I will most definitely do the CPU mobo combo. But the SSD is NOT A DEAL. I don't care how fast they are (and it is the fastest SSD out there). I'll raid two raptors for THAT price. Holy shizzaaaat.

[[21CW]killerofall]

The main deal is a good one (about 50% off retail) but if you still have last years bundle then it is pointless to get it unless you want to have a 2nd computer.

[SirKronan]

killerofall;1033317683']The main deal is a good one (about 50% off retail) but if you still have last years bundle then it is pointless to get it unless you want to have a 2nd computer.

Yeah. $229 would be a better price, even $200. They're really not gonna sell as much this year around with those prices. Look at discounts of the past:

Q6700 = $520 (at time of promotion)
Intel Motherboard = $130
Windows Vista Home Premium = $100

Total = $750
Bundle Price = $229
Savings = $520 or 70% off

Q9300 = $215
Motherboard = $200 (if that's what it ends up selling for - it's not worth that)
Windows Vista Home Premium = $100
(Far Cry and Ultimate only go to the first 1200)

Total = $515
Bundle Price = $259
Savings = $256 or about 50% off

Not nearly as good as the last couple of deals, especially for MOST of us who have NO NEED of that DDR3 motherboard. I know I would rather have the same board but using DDR2. What the HELL are they thinking with all this mismatching going on?? Give us a motherboard that requires high end ram with a fairly budget processor?

Meh. I know I know. shame on me for looking a gift horse in the mouth. The reward store is indeed much better and they're giving us a good amount of stuff for free ... hehe. I'll stop complaining I guess. I'd still rather have a cheaper DDR2 mobo though, for now.

[SirKronan]

Oh freak. I need to run at least 3.6GHz to make this worth it. I'm starting to lean towards a pass on this one. I'm really disappointed. I am just too addicted to overclocking. With my new P5Q board this crazy, old and abused Q6700 hits 3.8GHz with outstanding stability. I'm never going to hit that with a 9300. What board can even do 480FSB with a quad core?? And that's what I'd need just to hit 3.6GHz. Are the improved thermals and power consumption worth a potentially lower clock speed?

What a disappointment. I don't know what to do now.

[dlaxman31]

Sir.... thats a bummer.

[Modred189]

I just left Best Buy and I was pissed that I might miss a good bundle, but I am starting to feel ok about it. This is largely a joke.
If the SSD was MUCH cheaper, it would be ok, but my Q6700 system is more than enough for any game out there... I probably need a newer mobo, but this P5B is a champ...

[dlaxman31]

I'm curious how many people will actually do it now that they see the "deal"

I remember last year everyone was out getting it.

[EnderW]

SSD is even less of a deal after reading this
http://www.techpowerup.com/index.php?76457

[SirKronan]

SSD is even less of a deal after reading this
http://www.techpowerup.com/index.php?76457

Gee. Intel is being so magnanimous this year, saving us 22% ... meh, again, I hate sounding like a nay-saying whiner, but this really pales in comparison of deals they've had in the past. I'll pass. Again, I can snag two 150GB velociraptors and throw them in raid for less money than this and have a lot more practical storage.

[amdmaxx]

http://www.maximumpc.com/article/reviews/intel_x25m

[EnderW]

http://www.maximumpc.com/article/reviews/intel_x25m
much more detailed review
http://www.anandtech.com/cpuchipsets/intel/showdoc.aspx?i=3403

[PC Surgeon]

Anyone know how long it takes to get stuff from the store? I picked up the plantronic headset for 7500 chips last Sat. and haven't gotten shipping confirmation or anything.

[[21CW]killerofall]

Anyone know how long it takes to get stuff from the store? I picked up the plantronic headset for 7500 chips last Sat. and haven't gotten shipping confirmation or anything. I am guessing that either they don't give tracking info and/or they take really long to ship. FYI everything will ship ground. I just ordered the G9 mouse on Monday to replace my G5v1. I would get the G15v2 but I already have the G15v1 which I think is better than the v2. I am going to have about another 16k left at the end of the year and I can't decide what to spend it on.

[SirKronan]

killerofall;1033334546']I am guessing that either they don't give tracking info and/or they take really long to ship. FYI everything will ship ground. I just ordered the G9 mouse on Monday to replace my G5v1. I would get the G15v2 but I already have the G15v1 which I think is better than the v2. I am going to have about another 16k left at the end of the year and I can't decide what to spend it on.

gee. Glad I ordered Fallout 3 and RA 3 right away. Gone now.

[[21CW]killerofall]

gee. Glad I ordered Fallout 3 and RA 3 right away. Gone now.Everything under 12500 points is sold out except for the fan and the beanie. I don't have enough points to check for anything 12500 points and up.

[PC Surgeon]

killerofall;1033338171']Everything under 12500 points is sold out except for the fan and the beanie. I don't have enough points to check for anything 12500 points and up.

Thats not what I see. Looks well stocked.

[[21CW]killerofall]

k now there are a few more things in stock but most are still out of stock. That's weird.

[PC Surgeon]

killerofall;1033340392']k now there are a few more things in stock but most are still out of stock. That's weird.

oops, I think you were right to begin with. For some reason I expected to see OOS on the item WITHOUT clicking it. Assumptions....assumptions.

[[21CW]killerofall]

has anyone who has ordered anything from the store since they added items to it received anything, either actual product or an email with shipping info? The only 2 things that I see currently in stock are the Princess Leia Poster and the ON EDGE BEANIE. I hope that they get more stuf in stock before we loose all of our points.

[SirKronan]

killerofall;1033357810']has anyone who has ordered anything from the store since they added items to it received anything, either actual product or an email with shipping info? The only 2 things that I see currently in stock are the Princess Leia Poster and the ON EDGE BEANIE. I hope that they get more stuf in stock before we loose all of our points.

I ordered several items including the water bottle and the two PC games, but no shipping confirmation. The very day they posted the new items I became unverified. I faxed in the info, and overnight I was verified. Placed the order the next day, so it's been a while and still nothing from Intel.

[JackPack]

Nothing here either.

I know someone that ordered very early got their Plantronics headset recently.

[SirKronan]

You know, I almost feel compelled to support the program by buying the bundle because of all the great stuff I'm at least supposed to be getting ... I mean Fallout 3, RA 3, stainless water bottle, classic star wars poster ... and I will soon have enough points for that sweet leatherman. that's like $200 in goodies w/FS for taking training courses. Maybe the bundle's not as spectacular as the Q6700 bundle was, but I think I might be swayed to purchase this time... IF, I actually get the loot I ordered. Still nothing yet.

[[21CW]killerofall]

You can get the leatherman for like $35 online where the G15 and G9 are about 2 times the cost for the same amount of points. I hope our points don't expire before they get more stuff in stock as I will have about 16k by the end of the year after ordering the G9. My friend has about 60k points but got verified the day after everything went OSS.

[SirKronan]

killerofall;1033368936']You can get the leatherman for like $35 online where the G15 and G9 are about 2 times the cost for the same amount of points. I hope our points don't expire before they get more stuff in stock as I will have about 16k by the end of the year after ordering the G9. My friend has about 60k points but got verified the day after everything went OSS.

Oh. Good point. I don't want the keyboard as much as I want the leatherman though, and you're not supposed to sell this stuff for a year!!

[PC Surgeon]

yeah I ordered the plantronics a while back, like the 15th? But have heard nothing from intel. :(

[[21CW]killerofall]

But does that year thing apply to the store? I thought that it was only the big deal. I was just saying if you, for example, wanted both theleatherman and the keyboard but only had points enough for one to get the keyboard as the leatherman is over priced. I was also contemplation getting the leatherman as well but am reconsidering getting 16k worth of other things instead.

[SirKronan]

killerofall;1033369101']But does that year thing apply to the store? I thought that it was only the big deal. I was just saying if you, for example, wanted both theleatherman and the keyboard but only had points enough for one to get the keyboard as the leatherman is over priced. I was also contemplation getting the leatherman as well but am reconsidering getting 16k worth of other things instead.

Isn't it a custom Leatherman that says "retail edge" on it or something? Priceless! :p

[dlaxman31]

how long did it take you guys to get verified? I sent my stuff in on Monday and I haven't gotten anything yet?! Werid. I figured it would go alot faster.

[PC Surgeon]

how long did it take you guys to get verified? I sent my stuff in on Monday and I haven't gotten anything yet?! Werid. I figured it would go alot faster.

I faxed my info and was verified the same day.

[Om1zzle]

Do your points get deleted at the end of the year if you dont use them?

I have like 17,000 saved up waiting for something good....

[Modred189]

They have been in the last two years...

[Om1zzle]

well damn. Hopefully they get some nice prizes soon

[PC Surgeon]

Looks like they made a mistake. I ordered my plantronics on the 15th when it said it was in stock and have yet to receive it so I sent an email today and got this response:

Hello XXXXXX,

Thank you for contacting the Intel(R) Retail Edge Program team.

While store orders are typically shipped within a couple of business days, unfortunately, there is currently a back order of multiple items which is why you have not yet received your purchase. Fortunately, we anticipate receiving new stock within a couple of days at which time all pending orders will be fulfilled.

We will also send a confirmation as well as tracking information as soon as your order has shipped. We apologize for any inconvenience this delay may have caused.


Regards,

Corey S.
The Intel(R) Retail Edge Program team

So it looks like even though I ordered it while it was in stock that doesn't necessarily mean its on hand. Just a headsup for those looking for their stuff.

[SirKronan]

Do your points get deleted at the end of the year if you dont use them?

I have like 17,000 saved up waiting for something good....

Yes. Spend them before Dec. 31st. Points won't affect your big bundle purchase. It's your average per month that gets you your status.

Looks like they made a mistake. I ordered my plantronics on the 15th when it said it was in stock and have yet to receive it so I sent an email today and got this response:



So it looks like even though I ordered it while it was in stock that doesn't necessarily mean its on hand. Just a headsup for those looking for their stuff.

Silly intel. :rolleyes:


By the way, who is going for the bundle?? I'm torn. I'd like the improved temps. I know my board can hit 500MHz FSB with quad intel CPU's, but that still only gives me 3.75GHz. Is it worth it just to have better CPU temps? I don't need a motherboard that requires DDR3 either. I could use the Vista ultimate for sure, but I already have FC2. What to do.... :confused:

[hazard_one]

How long does it take to get verified?

[[21CW]killerofall]

usually less than a week.

[hazard_one]

Thank god. When i saw that it may take 4-6 weeks i shit my pants. i JUST faxed it in today...

[SirKronan]

Thank god. When i saw that it may take 4-6 weeks i shit my pants. i JUST faxed it in today...

In my experience sending an email usually helps speed it up a tad. I just say something like, "I just faxed in verification, and I wanted to make sure you have everything you need! Please let me know if you need anything else. Thanks!"

[[21CW]killerofall]

I just received my G9 mouse from the store today so they are shipping. Mine shipped December 2.

[Bad_dude]

Does anyone knows what time the December big deal starts today?
Thanks.

[sardonic.n7]

Does anyone knows what time the December big deal starts today?
Thanks.

Perhaps 11:59pm? :p

[vbrtrmn]

I think it starts tomorrow .. though that is based off of no research and no insight. ;)

[ignoramus]

Rockstars are able to purchase already. Deals aren't that good this time around, I'll pass.

[sardonic.n7]

I almost pulled the trigger on the SSD, but it comes out to over $550 CND for me by the time i deal with exchange rate, shipping, & brokerage.

I just couldn't swallow that price, & i have no need for another quad/mobo/Vista license, so it appears i spent all year wasting time on the quizzes for pretty much nothing, especially since all the good items in the store are always unavailable every single time i've checked. :(

[PC Surgeon]

killerofall;1033416645']I just received my G9 mouse from the store today so they are shipping. Mine shipped December 2.

Yep, just received my plantronics today :)

[EnderW]

Rockstars are able to purchase already. Deals aren't that good this time around, I'll pass.
yeah me too
this is the first time in several years I haven't bought it

[SirKronan]

yeah me too
this is the first time in several years I haven't bought it

Same here. I bought the E6300, the Q6700, the Extreme, and multiple other items. I can't believe I'm passing this up. I really want a 45nm processor, but this is not going to be an upgrade at all from my Q6700.

[EnderW]

Same here. I bought the E6300, the Q6700, the Extreme, and multiple other items.
guess I need to find some crap in the store to get with my points

[JackPack]

Anybody else receive their Dark Knight training pack?

Get a T-shirt other than Iron Man?