clever_trevor
2013-01-06

Hi,

I have Envy X2 ~ this is  anice laptop but very frustrating the WIFI performance is so poor -

Has anyone else had a problem & is there anyway to boost wifi.

 

The laptop is congured for WPA-2 on AES ~ and all updates applied.

 

However, when the laptop is moved to a room or about 15 foot from the router, the laptop shows the wifi signal as 2 bars & connection drops (ie. You-Tube wont play - I just get the spinning wheel).

 

This if definatley poor wifi in Envy x2 as I have an HP Specta XT, plus Ipad & other laptops & wifi kit all show 5 bars and work fine throught my home but the Envy show a weak signal unless very close to router.

Also, with all other Wifi (laptops) I see other hotspots (eg neigbours) but on the Envy x2, these dont even show.

 

For a tablet / portable device - its dissapointing to find an important feature performs so poorly,

 

Any advice would be appreciated?

 

Cheers,

T

Big_Dave
2013-01-07

Hi,

 

What bands did you configure active in the wireless hub? b,g,n? What bands can the wireless hub run?

 

Your best success is going to be "line of sight" using the "n" band.

clever_trevor
2013-01-07

Hi,

Thanks for your reply - much appreciated but I feel you missed my issue.

 

The Hub runs fine & all my wireless devices including Laptops, Xbox, wirless music streamer & tablet devices all work fine around my home.

 

However - the HP Envy x2 unless in sight of the router shows a 'weak' signal.

 

Also, where as all my other devices see neigbour networks - the Envy X2 does not see them at all unless I go almost outside a neigbours home.

 

I have checked the 'network' setting on the Env x2 - they are the same as on other devices.

 

My conclusion is one I did not want to accept - that is the WIFI in this device has poor h/w antenna.....

 

Its a shame,

 

Cheers,

Big_Dave
2013-01-07

Hi,

 

I didn't miss your issue at all but was trying to help you improve your reception.  I guess that you are not open to suggestions.  Good luck!

clever_trevor
2013-01-07

But....

My Router is fine - I dont need to improve the reception all other devices are fine-

 

You missed the point; which was that my Envy x2 is the problem with very poor wifi antenna - I was hoping for a suggestion to fix this - eg. suggest new device driver or update perhaps.

 

As, Its just not practical being in sight of the router - one does not expect that from a modern laptop, It should perform like other devices or beging HP, better than other devices.

 

 Nevermind - thanks for your help,

Big_Dave
2013-01-07

Sorry but you missed the point of an alternative way of improving reception and performance, perhaps for all devices.

 

Cheers

tchoi
2013-01-07

Hi, I just got the Envy x2 and have the same problem. I have a case open with HP support and waiting for their case mgr to call back so I can determine, if this is an issue in general with this model.

 

You have the same issue so seem like it's general issue. Their tech support wasn't very useful.

clever_trevor
2013-01-07

 

Thanks; I look forward to your update & fingers crossed HP can resolve this....

HardBeatZ
2013-01-08

Hello clever_trevor,

 

Have you tried uninstalling and reinstalling the driver for the wifi adapter? If the driver is not working properly it might not be properly picking up a signal. Uninstalling and reinstalling will help refresh the driver to ensure you are using the most up to date and it's in working condition.

 

1. Uninstall the driver through device manager

2. Reboot your computer

3. Allow Windows to attempt to reinstall the driver after the reboot

 

@tchoi, please keep me / us updated on how your contact with support goes. 

 

I've attempted to find more cases of this issue to determine if this is a widespread issue and I have not so if this is a new issue arising we could provide valuable data on the issue.

clever_trevor
2013-01-08

Hi,

Thanks for the advice...

 

I did remove the driver as you suggested & had some trouble getting it to reinstall - since I lost wifi connection completley with loss of driver so could not connect to download it.... anyways - that said it is working - but alas, the problem remains.

 

I also tride the following

a) diable bluetooth

b) disable the driver power save option

c) Tried at another location to check if problem somehow was my router/connection related.

 

However - still I find the wifi very poor alongside all other devices; where other devices will be showing 2-3 or 4-5 bars & say 8-10 wifi hoitspots available - at the same location the Envy shows 1 bar or 2-3 bars & only 5 bars when near to the the router; it also shows much fewer hotspots compared to other devices (such as Windows 7 laptop, iphone, ipad, tablet etc)

 

Hope this helps & look forward to any further suggestion.

 

Cheers,

T  

HardBeatZ
2013-01-08
Can you and tchoi advise which specific models you are using to see if they are the same.Is this a new device? Honesty if the hardware is at fault then there isn't a fix that we are going to be able to provide on the forums.
tchoi
2013-01-08

We had actually called HP support and they had us do a factory reset but didn't help.

 

I'm waiting on HP case mgr to call back so I can get this escalated over to engineering. I suspect it's still new that HP may not be aware of the issue yet.

 

Thanks.

clever_trevor
2013-01-09

 

Mine is HP Envy x2

 

Model:  HP ENVY x2 11-g000ea

HardBeatZ
2013-01-10
I haven't forgotten about you guys. I am looking into a few things.
clever_trevor
2013-01-10
thanks :-)
Finders
2013-01-11

My Envy X2  11-g000ea WiFi signal also drops off to 1 or 2 bars about 15 feet from the router and only shows 3 networks in total.

 

My HP 6930p laptop in comparison has 3 bars and shows 7 networks at the same location.

 

I'd be concerned using the Envy X2 out and about, e.g. in a hotel where you can be far from a router.

Bandageboyz
2013-01-11

I must admit i have noticed a similar issue with the wifi connection. I have a BT home hub which is an N class router though I have not had any drop outs yet.

 

Mind you I had similar issues with my IPAD 2 when I first had it and that was resolved by an Apple update. So I hope this is can be fixed in a similar way.

alvinsultana
2013-01-13

My brand new HP Envy x2 is a useless purchase.

 

The wifi is barely usable. I have to stand next to the router to get it to connect and as soon as I move away the signal drops and I lose connection. Without an ethernet port  alternative connection is impossible.

 

When connected (whilst standing next to the router) the Envy manages approx one third of the speed of my other laptops,  pads, and even phones. (www.speedtest.net) I work in IT. I know what the device should be achieving.

 

I returned said machine to the supplying shop ( PC World Blackpool UK ) and suffered the farcical pantomime of them turning the machine on and connecting it instantly to their in shop router which was located underneath the counter and delivers 50mbpts of superfast fibre. They declared the machine to be working fine and refused all discussion of exchange, repair, or refund.

 

I was cheered even further when I contacted the UK HP support telephone number to be told that the supplying shop was responsible for all warranty claims !

 

So I am now the proud owner of a very expensive door stop. I would not reccomend that anyone purchase this device, nor given the dire customer service from Hewlett Packard or PC World anything from those companies either.

 

I dont expect this post to remain on this forum for long so I have taken the opportunity to post it in as many relevent forums as possible. Bad reviews like this can kill a new product.

 

Everyone who reads this, do not put put off with HP telling you that you are doing it wrong, or your router is not configured properly. These machines are not of merchantable quality. {Content Removed}

Finders
2013-01-13

I have already posted a message about the wifi signal being low.

 

I had not checked the speed as the Envy X2 was having problems running a test on Speedtest.net. Finally managed it, by going into Speedtest.net settings and selecting the server I am normally connected to.

 

 I am getting a quarter of the download speed (although nearly the same upload speed) that I consistently get on 4 other computers using the same router.

 

I checked using another computer before and after to ensure there were no other speed issues at the time. 

 

This sure is dissapointing and needs a fix.

Bandageboyz
2013-01-13

@alvinsultana I am not going to respond on your specific issues thats for the HP Experts. However i must comment on the "merchantable quality" comment.

 

I have been using my X2 for a couple of weeks now and I find it perfectly meets the business/personal usage combination that my Ipad didn't quite meet for me. Infact I use it more than my Ipad now. I could write you pages of issues that I had with my iPhone 4S when I got it plus some of the niggles I had with the Ipad2. However these were fixed by Apple in time via various updates.

 

It has even surprised me that in most cases I have found an equivalent app to the software I used on my Ipad in the Microsoft store. Though of course they may not be to the same polished standard yet.

 

I have been in the IT industry for 25 years and I know that all products have their challenges particularly new designs. I am prepared to give the HP team the opportunity to remedy the niggles. The issue noted in this thread has not prevented me from using my X2 either at home or in the office, hence why I disagree with your comment.

 

I would suggest you give the HP Experts the time to respond to your concerns.

 

Finders
2013-01-14

I have checked my Envy X2 wifi speed over a few days (using www.speedtest.net) and am now getting only half the speed I consistently get on 4 older computers on an n router.

 

 The X2 also experiences more drop off in signal strength with distance from the router than the other computers do - and two of these are HP.

 

I raised a case on this when phoning HP support about "Crash on Resume" issues (elsewhere on the forum). They have left this open and asked me to check the X2 speed on other routers and let them know.

 

Is anyone else experiencing slow wifi speeds?

clever_trevor
2013-01-15

Hi,

I just noticed an update to Broadcom driver - I have installed this update & its only been a few minutes but straight away I see more networks.

Good to see updates coming - thanks,

T

Finders
2013-01-16

Thanks - although I already have that Broadcom driver, it's a 14 December 2012 one, version 5.93.97.76.

 

I am visiting someone who has fibre to the cabinet broadband. His laptop gets a download speed of 37.49Mbps on www.speedtest.net. My Envy x2 on the same wifi gets 2.87Mbps  which is extremely poor !!

 

Oddly his gets an upload speed of 2.00Mbps where the Envy X2 gets a better 2.22Mbps.

 

Something is throttling the download speed on my Envy X2. Does anyone else get a slow download speed on the Envy X2 wifi?

 

 

 

 

alvinsultana
2013-01-16
Bandageboyz wrote:

@alvinsultana I am not going to respond on your specific issues thats for the HP Experts. However i must comment on the "merchantable quality" comment.

 

I have been using my X2 for a couple of weeks now and I find it perfectly meets the business/personal usage combination that my Ipad didn't quite meet for me. Infact I use it more than my Ipad now. I could write you pages of issues that I had with my iPhone 4S when I got it plus some of the niggles I had with the Ipad2. However these were fixed by Apple in time via various updates.

 

It has even surprised me that in most cases I have found an equivalent app to the software I used on my Ipad in the Microsoft store. Though of course they may not be to the same polished standard yet.

 

I have been in the IT industry for 25 years and I know that all products have their challenges particularly new designs. I am prepared to give the HP team the opportunity to remedy the niggles. The issue noted in this thread has not prevented me from using my X2 either at home or in the office, hence why I disagree with your comment.

 

I would suggest you give the HP Experts the time to respond to your concerns.

 

Well I am very happy that this product meets your expectations. Unfortunately I expect a laptop to be able to connect to the internet.  Without a working connection a laptop is useless to me. 

 

I am currently on a trip and left the HP at home in its box because I would not be able to use it. I believe my comments to be valid.

 

I also see lots of other peeps in this thread complaing of the same issue. The wifi on this product is clearly substandard and not fit for purpose.

 

So your suggestion on how to fix the problem is that I wait patiently and hope that an update comes along ? I would actually prefer that HP and Pc World respect my rights as a consumer and either refund my money or replace the unit with one that actually works.

 

I would not have any customers if my services were as poor as this.

 

 

wb2001
2013-01-17

clever_treavor,

As you noted,products will evolve, and then updates are common. What is amusing it the fact that bluetooth is signal "poor".

 

Wi-Fi uses the same radio frequencies as Bluetooth, but with higher power, resulting in higher bit rates and better range from the base station. Source:  Bluetooth  From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 

In the initial dialogue you were offered some guidelines. It was meant to probe your system's weakness, if any existed unknown to you. it was not an attempt to demean your abilities. When asking a question, and hoping for a pauible solution, I would do the same.

Finders
2013-01-18

HP arranged to take my Envy X2 back for repair, suspecting it had a defective wifi card as it was connecting  at much slower speeds than my other computers and was also slow on other wifi networks.

 

They asked me to do a "Reset PC" first to get it back to a default setup (this loses other software and personal files on the C drive).

 

It took over an hour to reset but after this the wifi is now working at the full speed I get with my other computers.

 

Hope this is a permanent fix!

 

 

tchoi
2013-01-18

Same here..., it's in repair now and expecting it back on Jan 22.

 

Hope that will be the fix so will provide an update.

 

 

tchoi
2013-01-18

It's HP ENVY x2 11t-g000 CTO

Millenios
2013-01-24

I also have the Envy X2 .. was a little worrid before I purchased as have a 5 computers in the house but all 

have Gb ethernet sockets . One of the PC's is a server which I use to stream movies etc. from.

 

Wireless performance is so poor I can only stream the very low bitrate movies.

 

As others I have two other wireless N laptops both have no problem with the wireless speeds

There is without doubt a issue withthe Envy X2 .. max connection speed is 65Mbps.

Other laptops get between 120 & 300Mbps.

 

As this is a big issue for me I purchased a second dual band router and installed it in the room where the Envy X2 will be used. still no difference in speed but signal wise getting the max bars but the speed is the same.

 

I do hope this is a driver issue as for now I am copying films to USB memory sticks to play on the Envy X2

which or course makes the whle point of a media server pointless.

 

The Machine is uptodate part code CQU47EA#ABU

 

Any advice will helpful

 

Thanks

 

 

alvinsultana
2013-01-24

Well HP contacted me on the 14th of Jan to say that someone would be in touch to sort my problem.

 

Its now the 24th...............................................still waiting.

clever_trevor
2013-01-24

Yeah! Franky.. I have given up on this - the WIFI is weak  & slow - I bought a small USB WIFI Dongle & this works fine. I do hope we receive an updated driver soon for this frustrating issue.

 

philatronic
2013-01-27

Hi guys I too have got this unit and the wifi strength is MUCH noticeably weaker than all my other devices on my wifi N network. Really disappointing.

 

Used all the suggestions that have provided in this thread to no avail.

 

It is a real shame because I really love everything else about this unit, but this wifi problem is a deal breaker.

 

I hold hopes that this is a fault that can be fixed with a driver update, but deep down I think the aluminum metal design actually hampers the performance (eg like the wifi problems of the asus transformer prime), therefore it think it is a hardware issue, which cannot be fixed with a simple software update.

 

Going to sell it, and would not recommend this HP device to anyone.

clever_trevor
2013-01-27

I agree.

alvinsultana
2013-01-27

Wow - I am shocked at how people are prepared to settle for being sold something that does not work, then you are all happy to wait for HP to produce some kind of softfare update. Or to have to sell the item to recover some of the lost money.

 

As consumers we are entitled to expect any product that we purchase to work as described by the vendor.

 

If the product does not work we are entitled to a replacement or a refund.

 

The HP Envy x2 does not work properly. This is a comon experience according to this thread.  They need to sort it quickly because it is turning into a PR. disaster for HP and windows 8.

clever_trevor
2013-01-27

Hi,

I know what you mean & again agree -

However, I guess its complicated to challenge - as there is no specific details on what 'exactly'  it will deliver in terms of performance & thus acceptable (as this can be subjecitve).

Eg. a supplier may consider this in tolorance for a tablet but we cosumers dont.

So, I put it down to experience & next time will be doubley sure it does what I want before I buy.

Cheers,

chashoagie
2013-01-29

I have the same problem (and more).  I received my Envy x2 yesterday, and am returning it today. Maybe I got a bad unit, but the wi-fi was very insensitive. I have a Envy 14, which I really like for a notebook, and while the Envy 14 showed all bars of wi-fi strength, the envu x2 showed 1-2 bars and would not connect. I had to update Windows 8 standing under the access point! It ran so erratically that it was difficult to use: the touch screen sometimes requires a hard press, the swipe motions erratic and slow.In general, it was not a nice experience after waiting and following the whole trip from China. I called tech support, who was not much help, sending me to the HP.com site for drivers, which I'm sure were up-to-date anyway since this thing was built last week and the driver dates were mid-December at the latest. I also installed the latest bios which was also mid-December. Nothing made any difference. This is simply not a happily-usable device and I expected so much more. Having a bad wi-fi is one thing but not all of.  I'm not a gamer, so speed is not object, but I did want a responsive device.

tchoi
2013-01-29

Can everyone call HP support and report this issue, if you have not. HP is still not acknowledging the issue so I think we need more folks calling in to complaint.

 

I got HP to get me a replacement after support tried to replace the system board (not sure why they did that but support don't have a clue at this point).

 

The replacement is expected first week of March so I'm hoping it's not the same build as one I got early Jan but it's TBD.

 

 

alvinsultana
2013-01-29

Well at least you have you pleasure of being told that "all is well" when you try and return it to look forward to.

 

Someone at HP read my post about the poor performance of the HP Envy x2 and sent me a mail. They promised to sort my problem.

 

This was nearly 2 weeks ago and I am still waiting.

 

The Envy x2 is still in it's box.

 

PR disaster for HP and Windows 8. 

Kapernik
2013-01-29

Same problem here. All my wifi devices at home show 17-20 mbs, where this new Envy X2 shows only 4 no matter where I am in the house.

I have to say that HP support is absolutely terrible - they have no idea about this problem and have no idea on how to fix it.

 

I have to say that if it stands that this device only uses 30% of the wifi power - then in my book it is completely defective and has to be either fixed by HP or completely recalled. Imagine if you are in the public place where the signal is weak, say 1-2 mbs, what will the unit do when it only uses 30% of the speed.

 

By the way, all steps to update BIOS, drivers, un-install network adapter, etc have not change anything.

 

alvinsultana
2013-01-29

It has been said before in this thread and I am also now of the opinion that HP are unable to fix the problem. The issue is that the actual aluminium casing is causing the problem.

 

So you can forget about a driver update fixing the terrible wifi on your HP Envy x2.

 

The only solution for disgruntled consumers is a full refund.

Finders
2013-01-29

I  was having lots of  problems plus my wifi was slower (2mbps instead of 34mbps on someones FTTC router). HP arranged to take my Envy X2 back for repair, suspecting it had a defective wifi card.

 

However, they asked me to do a "Reset PC" first to get it back to a default setup. This fixed all my problems and it didn't need to go back. It now has the original "old" drivers back but is OK. I suspect there may have been problems when HP first put the software on it during manufacture.

 

It took well over an hour to reset but after this the wifi is now working up to at least 34mbps and no crashes during the last 10 days.

 

If you want to try the Reset this is what I did (NOTE CAREFULLY - it reinstalls from the Recovery D: drive and you lose everything you don't backup externally from the C drive, and you have to reinstall any other software but SD cards are unaffected - you also have to setup mail etc like you did when you first got the X2):

 

On the Start Screen (with the apps) type Settings, select Settings on the right of the screen,  select Change PC Settings on the left then at the bottom right of the screen, below the power icon, click on Change PC Settings. On the next screen select General. On the right of the screen scroll to the bottom to get Advanced Startup, select Restart Now.

Finders
2013-01-29

I should have added to my last post that after a reset (or for someone who has just bought an Envy x2) that it needs to download and install the huge number of Microsoft Win 8 updates so will be slow while it does this after the reset.

 

It took me about 4 hours for the reset, Win 8 updates, reinstallng my own software, setting up e-mail etc, but worth it now. The wifi strength does still fall off but I have a good signal throughout the house.

alvinsultana
2013-01-29

Unfortunately this did not work for me.

 

I did a reset before I attempted to return the machine to the store I bought it from. 

 

It made no difference.

 

So I am still waiting for a reply from someone at HP who is prepared to engage with me to eiher fix the problem, or refund my money.

 

 

alvinsultana
2013-01-31

and another 2 days have past.......

 

no support.

 

no reply from hp ?

 

 

clever_trevor
2013-01-31

I see a new BIOS release today.

So does seems some fixes are coming

 

 

Released: 2013-01-30 Version: F.07 Compatibility: Microsoft Windows 8 (32-bit) Fix/Enhancement: -

 

Fixes an intermittent issue where the system audio does not function properly after the system resumes from sleep mode.

badjedi
2013-01-31

I am having the same wifi issue, but it's with my new dv6t-7200 that was custom built for me last week. If I get more than 10 ft from the router, it drops the signal. After speed testing it serveral times, it's around 2mbps average, where my other laptop gets around 25mbps. I did a factory reset last night and that didn't fix the problem. This is very annoying to say the least. Those of you who are having issues; what wifi adaptor is installed in you laptop? Mine is the Intel 802.11b/g/n WLAN and Bluetooth (N 2230).

badjedi
2013-01-31

I also forgot to point out that I hooked up an USB wifi adaptor that I had laying around and it worked perfect; getting the same speeds (25mbps) as my other laptop with dropping the signal at all, no matter where I was in the house.

Millenios
2013-01-31
Saw the Bios update , but failed to update on my Envy X2, gave a WMI error .. getting really fed up with this now :0(frankly would just like my money back so I could buy a standard laptop
alvinsultana
2013-01-31

I think we would all like tonget our money back.

 

The HP Envy x2 simply does not work to a reasonable standard.

 

The silence from HP in this thread is deafening............................

badjedi
2013-01-31

The new driver that intel released yesterday actually fixed my connectivity.

clever_trevor
2013-01-31

where did you get this update ?

badjedi
2013-02-01

From the Intel website:click=> wifi driver

Finders
2013-02-01

That wifi driver is for a HP dv6t-7200 laptop not an Envy X2

Bandageboyz
2013-02-01

ok this is bizarre. i have just removed the tablet part and noticed i have a full set of bars in the rest of the house. this has not happened ever until today. it normally starts with three and then drops down to 2. the 4 bars has remained static so i am wondering if the has been an update which autoloaded. anyone else notice an improvement? hope it stays

clever_trevor
2013-02-01

nope- Re Envy X2 ~ nothing new for me, I checked updates & nothing pending & wifi still weak....

 

Wonder what changed for you......

Bandageboyz
2013-02-01

i wish i could tell you. the only thing i know happened was that i ran the intel chip set update yesterday and some microsoft updates loaded today. i have been using the envy for an hour now and its stayed with 4 bars. i am just praying it stays when i do a shutdown. oh and i also ran the intel driver check mentioned by one of the members earlier but to my knowledge it didn't download anything but i am wondering now.

clever_trevor
2013-02-01
thanks- I will check this again & post here if I find it helps me....
Bandageboyz
2013-02-01

so i rebooted and sadly the static bars have dropped. its intriguing its like the envy was fixed on a signal from the router, and the it dropped when i rebooted. 5 bars was great while it lasted. back to waiting for a resolution.

 

badjedi
2013-02-01

OK,  even though I have a different model of laptop, I was having the same issues with WiFi. I discovered today the reason for the pour connectivity by accident. The new driver update seem to fix the problem, but then I noticed the bluetooth was disable for some reason after the update. I have a bluetooth mouse and wanted to use it, so I enabled the bluetooth and immediately the Wifi connection dropped. I went from getting 23 Mbps (5 bars) down to 2 Mbps (2 bars). Once I went into the device manager and disabled the bluetooth again, the Wifi connection went back up to 22 mbps and full bars. I have no idea why the bluetooth is having that effect on the Wifi, but I would rather not have bluetooth than have a poor Wifi connection. This to me seems to be an Intel issue with the bluetooth drivers over powering the Wifi anntena.  FYI, my adapter is the Intel N-2230 wifi + bluetooth. Hopefully, this solution will work some of you.

JorisBos
2013-02-04

I have the exact same issue and it's quite a let down because the rest of the device is really nice quality. I hope HP fixes this through firmware or driver.

Millenios
2013-02-04

I was messing around with the Envy X2 weekend & on checking the spec it would seem the installed

Broadcom 4330 802.11 a/b/g/n+ Bluetooth 4.0 combo w/* 2 Antennas card will only support a max of 65Mbps (20Htz) or 150Mbps (40Htz) the spec sheet states  802.11n: Up to MCS7

 

 

typically wireless N is good for up to 300Mbps so even if it worked perfectly it will still be twice as slow as other wireless n laptops ..  be happy for someone to correct me .. but t would seem the card offers multifunctions and very low power but rubbish wireless performance .. if I have understood the spec correctly this is a hardware limitation :0(

 

 

alvinsultana
2013-02-04

So as many of us have suspected for some time, there is no update coming, no new drivers on the way.

 

It has been suggested that the aluminium case might have been to blame, now the actual card is indeed a low grade item, and all the time silence from HP.

 

So we have been sold a pup that will never work as intended, or to a reasonable level as expected by a consumer.

 

My HP Envy x2 is still in its box. I use it to prop open the door. 

clever_trevor
2013-02-04

Oh heck- I guess this is the answer to the problem, looks like we will have to live with it.

Thanks for finding this out.....

wgdunlap
2013-02-05

I believe Millenios is correct. I consistently get 65Mpbs regardless of what I do.  I belive the card chosen was to support the low power consumption of the Atom chipset.  In effect,  they have placed a wireless chipset that is in many ways identical to the ones used in cell phones.  It is unfortunate that a new advanced product would opt to use old technology that does not even keep up  with modern internet speeds. I get 75mbps down and 30 up from Fios and I can't even use my full internet potential on this device. I guess it was a trade off for the battery life, similar to the less powerful atom chip.

 

It is dissapointing, but I guess understandable in Intel's grand design for extended battery life.  HP should at least make this clear on their website.  It may be Wireless N capable but it is not what most people are thinking of when they think  of Wireless N, which is usually associated with 300mbps.

 

See this website for more info for the SDIO low power wireless products.

 

http://redpinesignals.com/Products/Chipsets/RS9110.html

alvinsultana
2013-02-05

I would be pleased if the HP Envy x2 actually had as good wifi as my phone. That would be a considerable step forward.

 

I would also have been pleased if this product had been advertised correctly. i.e. "Ok as long as you dont want to use the internet".

 

it would actually be funny if it had not cost me £800 !!!!

alvinsultana
2013-02-06

Well I just suffered the amusing yet mildly humiliating exeprience of a call from HP "support".

 

The HP has sat in its box for several weeks as it does not work to a standard where I can actually use it. Full of giddy expectation I got the laptop out of its box and answered the call.

 

They got me to ping google. 

 

When the ping worked they declared that all was well as they had proven that the machine was connected to the internet.

 

End of converstion as far as they were concerned. They were not interested in my complaint anymore.

 

When I pointed out that all it proved was that the machine was able to ping google they said "therefore the wifi works perfectly" and you need to contact your ISP.

 

So I cannot surf the internet, download files, watch video, listen to music, or move away from the router, but I can ping google. 5 other devices in the same office that can all manage to do these simple every day tasks. 

 

Well done HP and Windows 8, you sold me an £800 machine that can ping google. What a remarkable achievement.

 

I have old redundant phones in my desk drawer that can manage basic functions better than my brand new HP Envy x2.

 

The HP Envy x2 is not fit for purpose and your "support" is shameful, nothing more than passing the buck. 

 

 

Yates4
2013-02-16

I have the problem of the x2 losing network connectivity every time it is turned off.  Not when it is restarted,but just when it is shutdown.  All updated drivers, etc., and nothing has worked so far.  The network troubleshooter fixes it each time, but what a pain.

 

I must say, however, that tech support has been very responsive - not helpful in finding a solution, but very responsive.  Six emails with new things to try in an hour.  None of the solutions has worked and now they want me to bring it in for repair.

 

It seems much more like a driver or service or incaompatibility issue to me, not a hardware problem.

Millenios
2013-02-16

Wifi is poor, despite having what they call a SSD disk performance is shocking

is basically a very expensive tablet.. ok for the web (no movies) and email with a bit of office.

Regret buying wish I had brought a standard laptop for half the price !!!

TennesseeUser
2013-03-07

I was having a problem with the wifi on my x2 I just purchased.  I called HP and they had me uninstall the wifi driver.  Then reinstall it from the "HP Recovery Manager" and then reboot my x2.  This seemed to improve my wifi signal strength by 1 bar making it's connection strength comparable to other wifi products in my home.  Since I cannot test this solution scientifically I will have to continue to monitor the problem to see if it is really better.

 

Hope this information helps.

ssnaik
2013-03-14

I  like Envy X2 excpet network connection  needed reconnect. I took it to Staples and there was no problem. Looks like it is my 4 years old Verizon router. I called Verizon and they are sending me their new router.

In the meantime I found creating Shutdown shortcut soves the problem. Rt click on desktop screen, choose new shortcut, enter in the location dialog box "shutdown.exe -s -t 00". Network reconnect problem goes away if you shut down this way. Bing the information from how to get this short if my instructions are not clear. Good luck. I will find out if the new router solves the shutdown from W8 process.

mm_g
2013-04-11

The HP Envy x2 11-g004TU (Laptop-Tablet) hybrid has very poor WiFi performance. the signal displays 2 bars within line of sight but in the next room 11 ft its down to 1 and end of the house 14 feet, it loses the connection completely. The point of the tablet is that it should be mobile. Is there a patch to resolve this? Or a separate antennae that one could buy.

 

Brand new machine, bought it 2 weeks back.

jkr07
2013-04-22

Message to HP: Expect my demonstation video on youtube. I'll be providing the tech support you never could. Video title: How to fix HP Envy X2 Wifi Problems in 3 Easy Steps!

 

I created an account just to contribute my (poor) experience with this product.

 

I bought my Envy X2 from the Microsoft Store for $599.  I quickly found that it was unable to detect the battery in the base. After 2 hours with tech support repeating steps I already tried on my own (reinstalling drivers), they had me mail it in.

 

Finally I got it back with working batteries and the signal is so poor I cannot use it in my own STUDIO apartment - as in 1 giant room, no interior walls - nothing breaking the signal strength. My 2-year-old $500 HP laptop has perfect signal strength in my apartment ALL THE TIME. The envy X2, right next to it, gets 1 - 2 bars.

 

I decided to experiment. I thought maybe the base was somehow impeding the signal so I took it off. I took my X2 tablet and walked closer to my router. Within 4-5 feet of the router I was up to 3 bars and the internet worked. Progress.

 

I decided to go one step further. I really wanted to see how powerful a signal this little beast could pick up. I took the tablet and placed it directly on top of my router. I got 4 bars! Not quite all 5, but 4's not shabby.

 

So all you others out there complaining, just do what I do. Keep the tablet permanently attached to the top of your router. The bezel around the screen is large enough you should be able to duck tape it to the router without blocking the screen.

 

Want to use it in another room? Easy solution! Go on Amazon and get yourself 100 foot ethernet and cable cords. This way you can take your Envy X2-router combo anywhere in your house.

 

Message to HP: Expect my demonstation video on youtube. I'll be providing the tech support you never could. Video title: How to fix HP Envy X2 Problems in 3 Easy Steps!

AntonR
2013-04-28

I am experiencing the same type of issues.  I am no computer expert, so hope I am using the right terms.  Wifi connection is extremely week and at times it is not even picked up at all.  I find that I connect OK with internet using my Sierra USB 4G Dongle, but when I remove the monitor/tablet from it dock connectivity is immediately lost.  I also sometimes can find connectivity using my mobile (Apple iPhone 4) but this is also extremely week and drops in and out consistently.  At home I have Broadband Wifi, but find that I am also not able to have proper connectivity through this although with my normal HP laptop I have absolutely no problems.  I have phone HP, Telstra and JB Hifi where I purchased the computer and each refers me to the other and blames the other for the problems I experience.

 

The fact that the connectivity is so extremely week and that I lose connectivity the moment I disengage the monitor/tablet from the keyboard dock makes this product comnpletely useless to me.  Anyone with advice that a normal run of the mill fellow can understand and follwo will be highly appreciated.

anthony82
2013-04-29

Hello AntonR,

 

You’re having a problem with the Wi-Fi not getting a good signal.

 

Go to device manager, uninstall the wireless network adapter and restart the computer.

This will uninstall and reinstall the driver for the card.

 

Here is a link to get to device manager.

 

If you’re still having the problem, go to HP.com and update the Wireless network driver and the BIOS.

Here is the links to the updates.

Broadcom Wireless LAN Driver for Microsoft Windows 8

BIOS

 

How long has this been happening?

 

Let me know how everything goes

Have a good day.

AntonR
2013-05-09

Hi - Last question first - i have had the problems Idescribed from the very first day I purchased the computer.

 

As for the problem - not getting a good signal is only part of the problem, the other part is that as soon as I remove the tablet from the keyboard twhatever connectivity I had is completely lost.

 

Now for the uninstalling of the wireless net work, after got to "device manager", under Netwrok adaptors, I found the following listed:

Bluetooth device (PAN)

Bluetooth device (RFCOMM protocolTDI)

Broadcom 802.11 abgn wireless SDIO adapter

Microsoft Kernel Debug Network adapter

Sierra Wireless WWAN Network adapter

 

Which of these am I to uninstall?  I hope you don't mean the Sierra adapter?

Should I have the Sierra Wireless device plugged in when I uninstall? Will this not mess up things even further?

 

I clicked on your link to get to device manager and that lost me completely!

 

by the way - why in hell do I have to do all these things?!  I am no computer expert - I just want to be able to use that **bleep** thing!

 

I hope HP gets this as I am off to the Australian Consumer Protection Unit at Dept of Commerce in Perth WA.

fdorn
2013-05-10

AntonR,

 

Broadcom 802.11 abgn wireless SDIO adapter

AntonR
2013-05-10

I have followed your advice - now I don't have any connectivity at all.  What now or do I ask for my money back

fdorn
2013-05-10
AntonRDid you reinstall the driver?
AntonR
2013-05-11

Hi - The instructions I received said:

"Go to device manager, uninstall the wireless network adapter and restart the computer.

This will uninstall and reinstall the driver for the card."

 

I therefore uninstalled the adapter and then restart my computer - going back into device manager it showed that the uninstalled adapter was again installed.  I then tried my connectivity without positive result.  It does not even pick up my broadband wifi which I have at home, which my other laptop has absolutely no problem with - in fact, I am using the old laptop and broadband wifi to communicate right now.

WirelessFix
2013-05-12

I have 2 HP Envy's that had terrible network connectivity frequently and was able to resolve my issue on both systems - This fix here is for people with Wireless home routers configured to provide both Wireless N and other speeds such as G.

 

 1. Hit the Window button on the keyboard combined with the x key to bring up shortcuts

 2. Select "Device Manager"

 3. Expand Network Adapters

 4. Double-click on Broadcom 802.11abgn Wireless SDIO Adapter

 5. Select the Advanced tab

 6. Select 802.11n Preamble

 7. Change the value from "Auto" to "Mixed Mode"

 8. Click OK - You are done!

 

I was shocked that choosing choosing Mixed Mode instead of Auto resolved my issues, but it did (even after reboots).  This issue was extremely frustrating, so I hope this is able to help some of you out there!

 

 Michael

AntonR
2013-05-13

Hi Michael - I will certainly give that a go when I get home tonight and let you know how it went - this would be absolutely great if it works!

 

Cheers,

Anton.

Jayefaye
2013-06-11

I tried this and seemed to work for a little while and then all the issues started again

AxshunJaxun
2013-06-12

Hello all, 

 

Could you let me know which brand and model number of wireless card you have? (ex. Broadcom BCM4330)

 

You can find it with these steps:

 

 

1. Press Windows key + X 

2. Click Device Manager

3. Expand Network Adapters

4. Look for the Wi-Fi Line. You may have a different brand instead of Broadcom, perhaps Intel, Qualcomm, Ralink, etc. But let me know that brand name and the model number right beside it please. 

 

 

Thanks

 

jkr07
2013-06-12

@Micahel:

Did not work for me, still usually only get 2 bars max.

 

@AxshunJaxun:

Broadcom 802.11abgn Wireless SDIO Adapter

Jayefaye
2013-06-12

Broadcom 802.11abgn wireless SDIO

 

running windows 8

 

 

AxshunJaxun
2013-06-12

Thanks everyone for your quick responses

 

Broadcom is the brand but '802.11abgn' is the wireless standard. Do you see a model number like 'BCM4330' or something similar? Take a screenshot that shows the Device Manager with Network Adapters expanded, if you're not sure

 

 

Thanks!

 

Jayefaye
2013-06-12

 

 

I can see under events where it says driver service added BCMSDH43XX

 

AxshunJaxun
2013-06-12

Thanks Jayefaye! So nothing in Device Manager I take it?

 

 

Jayefaye
2013-06-12

No nothing else.  I can't remember how to do a screen print so I can paste it in here.  Can you please remind me.

 

Jayefaye
2013-06-12

AxshunJaxun
2013-06-12

Absolutely!

 

Here is a link that explains it best

 

1. When your screen is set the way you want the shot to look, just hit the Print Screen button (no need to hit ALT).

2. Open Paint and press CTRL + V to paste the entire screen.

3. If you want to select only a single window or portion of the screen click the Select dotted square

 

 

 

4. Click and drag around the portion you want and hit CTRL + C to copy that portion. 

5. hit CTRL + N to open a new paint window and hit CTRL + V to paste that portion.

6. Then Click Crop to get rid of the excess white space.

7. Add any squares or arrows or text that you want and Save as a .jpg file for quick uploading.

NOTE: If you mess something up (as I often do) just hit CTRL + V again to paste again and start over on a clean image

 

Hope this helps! I find it very useful!

 

 

AxshunJaxun
2013-06-12

Oh sorry! You got it already! Thanks for posting it! 

 

Try this

1. Double-click on Broadcom 802.11abgn to open Properties

2. Click on the Details tab

3. Select Hardware IDs from the drop-down menu and let me know what comes up in the Value window

 

The Hardware ID code should point to a model number.

 

 

Jayefaye
2013-06-12

AxshunJaxun
2013-06-13

Ok so this is a BCM4330. Thanks so much for taking the time to post those screenshots!

 

Here is a link to the latest driver version 5.93.97.83. Scroll down until you see the section titled Broadcom BCM4330 Wireless LAN and download the file under the Windows 8 column (see picture below).

 

 

 

 

Jayefaye
2013-06-13

I had originally updated all the drivers and had even more problems. Couldn't connect at all and the mouse pad stopped working! Also wouldn't turn offor on properly.  Luckily read on a post about holding the off button down for 5 secs.

 

HP support got me to restore to original settings. Lost all of the program etc I had installed.  I even lost the free ones that came with the X2.  Trying to work out how to get them back.  (Such as that painting one ; not Paint but the other one; games such as Hearts; have managed to find some in the store but not the same as what came with it.)

 

I was told to turn off All updating!

 

Someone from HP is getting back to me today so I will see what happens.

 

 

AxshunJaxun
2013-06-13

Ok I understand. Recovering is kind of a last resort step, but it does usually resolve all software issues. How is the WiFi performance now after the recovery? What driver version is it on now (just curious)? You can check that by

 

1. Opening Device Manager

2. Double-click on the Broadcom line to open its Properties

3. Click the Driver tab and let me know what the driver version is please.

 

 

For the games and other programs, you may be able to find those in the Recovery Manager. 

1. Press the Windows key + Q to bring up Search

2. Type in 'recovery'

3. Click on Recovery Manager

4. Look for an option to Reinstall Software and Drivers, click that.

5. Look for the games and programs that are missing, select them and click the Install button

 

 

 

Thanks!

Jayefaye
2013-06-13

The recovery option was taken before I started these postings.  At least fixed it so that I could get on but doesn't fix the overall poor performance of the wiresless.  

 

I installed some of the programs using your information thanks.  Not sure what some of them are.  I found in the Games section I could click on Your Apps and there it had a list of purchased but not installed apps.

 

Waiting to hear from HP to see where we go from here.

 

Thanks for your help so far.  Love the machine, just not the WIFI.

Jayefaye
2013-06-13

Well waited all day for a call.  Rang them twice and were told they would get back to me within 30 mins.  No one got through.  

 

So ....

 

 

AxshunJaxun
2013-06-14

Oh no! I'm so sorry about that! I'm going to stick with this until I can find either a solution or a reason why the wifi is poor. I know the card has only 1 spatial stream so it may be a little slower (download speed) than some other devices that may be in users' homes, but the signal weakness is what I'm trying to figure out.

 

 

1. What driver version do you have right now?

 

2. Could you run a speed test on www.speedtest.net on the x2 and maybe on another device to compare it with? Let me know the Ping, Download and Upload results please.

 

3. For you, is the issue more about signal weakness (as was mentioned a few pages ago in the thread) or slow page loading or file downloading?

 

 

Jayefaye
2013-06-14

Same driver version as originally.  No updating done.

 

The speedtests are interesting.  We have two networks,  One an ADSL connection and one a wireless (dish on roof).  The ADSL has a faster download but slower upload.  The Touchsmart and X2 are both similair in the speeds.  The touchsmart is faster for uploading.

 

Varies each time I run it but around these figures for the X2 for ADSL

 

Ping                   26 to 36

 

Download         7.47 to 13.95

 

Upload               1.08

 

For the Wireless

 

Ping                    41 to 80

 

Download          3.87 to 5.66

 

Upload                2.02 to 4.35

 

What is interesting is the problems I have are with it saying it cannot connect even through the signal has full strength.  The available networks flash in and out showing several and then dropping back to one or two.

 

Sometimes whne I have it right next to the router it can show a low number of bars for the strength which is odd.

 

 

AxshunJaxun
2013-06-17

Ok that is interesting. How old is your wireless router? If it's more than a year old, it may benefit from a firmware update with the introduction of Windows 8 into the network. What brand and model is your wireless router? I would provide you with a link to the latest firmware for it. 

 

Updating router firmware helped in this case of dropped connections.

 

 

Jayefaye
2013-06-17

I am thinking that it is a router or interference issue. I have another router arriving this afternoon so I will see if that helps.  If it does then I hope I can then do the updates on the X2 that I haven't done.

 

Thank you for all your help.

AxshunJaxun
2013-06-17

Ok well that will definitely be a good test as long as the router is fairly new (<1 year old, hopefully constructed with Windows 8 in mind). When the router installs, it should automatically check for its own firmware updates. Make sure to get the latest firmware version if it doesn't automatically do it on its own.

 

 

Looking forward to the results!

 

 

Jayefaye
2013-06-20

Well that didn't work and this router is meant to be very powerful.  Guess I will just have to send it back for HP to check.

Millenios
2013-06-20

Hi as per my comments at the start of the tread this is a hardware limitation .. the wireless is always going to be rubbish regardless of firmware or  driver upgrades .. I have a 6 yearold HP probook that side by side with the Envy X2 will be 2-3 x faster over a wireless network. I have long given up on the wireless performance and use a rj45 to USB adapter.

Then Envy X2 has appalling wireless perfromance. 

Jayefaye
2013-06-21

What do you do with the RJ45 to USB adaptor?

Millenios
2013-06-21

Adapter lets me plug the laptop into a wired nedtwork (at home) if I need to do anything that requires a half decent internet connection, streaming movies,youtube, updates etc.

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Digitus-Gigabit-Ethernet-USB-Adapter/dp/B008Y6SPN6/ref=sr_1_8?s=computers&ie...

 

Obviously I appreciate the point of wireless is the connection is, well wireless but without this adapter the Envy X2 would be usesless for half the stuff I want to use it for.

Jayefaye
2013-06-21

Ok.  Thanks

 

I bought this for travelling where I will only be using wireless connections so I am  extremely disappointed with the wireless.  Works Ok with a Vodafone stick while here in NZ but will not have that when overseas.

 

Not sure if there is any solution, such as a new wireless adaptor ???

 

But I do like using this little X2, especially because of how light it is and the keyboard is great compared with the rubber type ones attached to tablets ans the Surface.

 

 

afripino
2013-06-24

how can I get a replacement as I am encountering the same issues with poor wifi signal. my router is literally sitting on top of my keyboard of the Envy X2 and I have 3 / 5 bars. When I connect a USB wifi adapter, it is 5 / 5. thanks!

Jayefaye
2013-06-24

You need to log a call with HP.  See the phone number for your area on the documnetation that came with it, or on the website.  I chose not to send it back yet as I am testing it in different environments. Also don't want to go through all of the reloading of programs.

 

If they get enough complaints maybe they will upgrade the wifi in the X2.

 

Let me know how you get on.  At the moment I have the original settings for the broadcom without updating as it was worse once it was upgraded, so I had to restore orignal settings.

debeluhi
2013-07-03

+1

Can't beleive this junk is sold as a high-end device. And the slow wi-fi is not the only problem with mine. Sent it to the service center to fix the touchscreen and got it back in the same state. Realy dissapointing.

Merlin1300
2013-08-04

I am having the same problem - -This card is the Intel Centrino Wireless-N 2230 Bluetooth AdapterThe WiFi link drops out after 10 minutes !!HP Part # c8y48av = Intel 2230 bgn 2x2 +BT WW 17Drivers are the most currentRouter has been reset - problem still existsThis problem does NOT exist with my other HP computer bought 4 years ago - I have constant connection with my router. Problem does not exist with my iPhone or my spouses WiFi phone.Only this new HP computer which I received 2 weeks ago has this problem.Since my computer was manufactured, there have been several BIOS updates - it came with f.11Support sent me a link and I just installed the 'most recent Insyde F.1C dated 6/7/2013This did not solve the problem - no change.WiFi card driver is current and the 'allow computer to turn off WiFi card' has been disabled.Tech support has suggested that I ensure the WiFi card is well seated - -I downloaded the service manual and will try that tomorrow - also will ensure the antenna connections are secure.Since you are having problems with the non-bluetooth card, and I am having the same problems with a different card,I really doubt that this is a hardware problem - - this is an interface problem somewhere inside the computer.Or - - it is a software problem which HP is going to have to solve and fix.  SOON !!I don't know if swapping out for a Broadcom WiFi card would help - - but it doesn't sound like it wouldbut since HP typically whitelists it's hardware in BIOS, very unlikely using alternate hardware would work - -most likely the computer would not even boot if alternate hardware was installed.

-

After reading this entire thread - I can only come to one conclusion:Something HP did with this Envy computer totally bolloxes up any WiFi connectivity

Centrino without bluetooth has same problem

Centrino WITH bluetooth has same problem

Broadcom WiFi has same problem

-

OK HP - - how you gonna fix this ??

*****************************************************

6 August Update: Yesterday the WiFi totally died - the indicator light stayed orange (off) and would not turn on (blue)

Tech Service called back and walked me through re-seating the WiFi card

Still dead.  So - HP is sending out a new WiFi card.It should be here on Friday - - we will see what happens

Certainly possible that there might be a bad batch of Intel Centrino N 2230's out there ??

Although if similar problems with the non-bluetooth and Broadcom WiFi cards - I still have some doubts ?

Merlin1300
2013-08-10

10 Aug update:New Intel Centrino N-2230 arrived yesterday:

Removed the old, replaced it with the new - --STILL DEAD - - OK HP - You got problems here - -

AxshunJaxun
2013-08-13

@Merlin1300

 

I saw your post and I have forwarded it to the proper department for their reveiw. You should hear from someone via private message within 48 hours.

 

To check your private messages, login to the HP forum and look at the top right corner next to your username. There is an envelope there. Click on it to view your private messages.

 

 

AxshunJaxun
2013-08-13

@debeluhi

 

I saw your post and I have forwarded it to the proper department for their reveiw. You should hear from someone via private message within 48 hours.

 

To check your private messages, login to the HP forum and look at the top right corner next to your username. There is an envelope there. Click on it to view your private messages.