Microcenter P67/H67 returns

[Spook]

So, I went to Microcenter today to inquire further about the intel recall, and the P67/H67 returns. They are fully aware of the issue, of course. My buddy there said its what most of their meeting was about that morning.

So, I found one of there managers to try and nail them down about the returns. Of course they are accepting returns now(within 30 days)... BUT if return my board now, it leave me computer-less for an unknown period of time. I went on that if I return the motherboard, I should just return everything I purchased for the computer now, as it could be utterly useless for a couple of months, and again, leave me computer-less. They seemed to take everything in stride, and understood the situation that it leaves many people. They explained that they will be taking returns on a case by case basis, and in my case they would be able to accept a return on this motherboard, when they get the new replacements.

This is where I was trying to steer this ship. I have a p8p67 Deluxe, which has 4x sata III ports on it... I can make due with these ports, but eventually I will need a board which i can use all the sata ports...

Thought this might be useful to a few stranded people out there looking for a solution to being computer-less for a couple of months.... I know some of you have sold your old parts already.

Spook

 

[Insomniator]

Thank you for the info, I am wondering about this myself. I have an Asus P8P67 from MC and am not very worried about the issue but would possibly like to return it if possible. I want the PRO or Deluxe version with SLI support...

 

[Anomaly1964]

Even if you keep the board after whatever the return date might be from the retailer, won't you be able to RMA it through the manufacturer?

 

[Insomniator]

Even if you keep the board after whatever the return date might be from the retailer, won't you be able to RMA it through the manufacturer?

Well the receipt says motherboards can only be exchanged... but if this whole fiasco allows full returns I would return the board and buy the more expensive version.

Unless they would allow me to step up normally, i don't have much experience with MC.

 

[Doggiedog]

I'm in the exact same boat as you except I'm using most of my ports right now. From what I gather, I won't be damaging my drives leaving them on their ports. I will just have to deal with the hassle of losing those ports eventually. I hope MC has some kind of upgrade policy on these boards when the new Z68s come out. I think it's the right thing for everyone (Intel specifically) to do since I have to rebuild this computer which will take me a while and risk breaking my SB chip (I'm a little wary of messing with it).

 

[jcniest5]

Do you think they will accept a return of two CPUS plus the motherboard? For me, I bought the motherboard and CPU, then a week later, also went and bought another CPU to try out the OCing vs. the first one. You think they would make exception to me being able to return both CPUs plus the motherboard?

 

[Meghan54]

Do you think they will accept a return of two CPUS plus the motherboard? For me, I bought the motherboard and CPU, then a week later, also went and bought another CPU to try out the OCing vs. the first one. You think they would make exception to me being able to return both CPUs plus the motherboard?

Why would they? There's nothing wrong with the cpu and the motherboards are quite useable until a replacement board is available.

 

[jcniest5]

Why would they? There's nothing wrong with the cpu and the motherboards are quite useable until a replacement board is available.

The OP did it, so I am just wondering. I know they will do the motherboard/CPU combo, just not sure about the 2nd CPU.

 

[Spook]

Don't get me wrong, I didn't return anything. But if I return the motherboard, as I suggested to the manager, I should just return everything purchased for the whole computer, and start again in a few months.

As far as returning the processor, you may be able. But it might be a little harder to justify, but I supposed you could use the whole since there are no motherboards available to be purchased, "why would i need this processor" angle.

So, you may be able to get away with a %100 return with no %15 restocking fee.

again... case by case.

 

[slag]

I think everyone should just sit tight and use what they bought. I'm fairly positive we early adopters will be given hefty discounts on 2nd gen boards or possibly a free replacement. I've been using my setup for a few weeks now with no issues and the problems wont even POTENTIALLY crop up for a few years so don't worry about it.

 

[Doggiedog]

Do you think they will accept a return of two CPUS plus the motherboard? For me, I bought the motherboard and CPU, then a week later, also went and bought another CPU to try out the OCing vs. the first one. You think they would make exception to me being able to return both CPUs plus the motherboard?

I don't think it would be a problem. You can just tell them that you were going to buy a second MB and now you can't so you are stuck with a CPU that you can't use.

 

[ss284]

I'm wondering what the options will be in 3 months down the road when fixed boards are actually available. Will MC still allow walk in exchanges? I'm hoping some sort of upgrade plan is available, where we can tack on some money for a different board(z68).

 

[Spook]

I'm wondering what the options will be in 3 months down the road when fixed boards are actually available. Will MC still allow walk in exchanges? I'm hoping some sort of upgrade plan is available, where we can tack on some money for a different board(z68).

Assuming they have the z68 boards, then I don't see why they wouldn't allow you to get one. Of course you would have to pay the difference in price, but to them this is a return... you get your money back... You use that money to purchase whatever you want... in this case a Z68 motherboard.... you could just as well get another Hard drive I would assume.

The thing is they have nothing suitable to replace your motherboard with now, and this is why they have to extend the refund/replace period.

Spook

 

[Drsignguy]

It was pretty freaky to see the local Microcenter in the Twin City area with gutted shelves from where the P series boards were. In thier place was a disclaimer and it was pretty clear what was going on. I too just got my board and 2600k about a weak ago so I went there today to ask more questions. And it is (so far) good to hear the more positive response of what they are planning to do to help.

 

[Insomniator]

Just recieved an official MC email:

eNews Update: Important Information
Micro Center: computers & electronics

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

An Important Announcement regarding Intel(r) Series 6 Chipsets

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

Intel has recently identified an issue with their 6 series chipsets,
which are used with all their 2nd generation Core processors
(code-named Sandy Bridge). This is a potentially serious issue, but it
should not affect your data, just your system's performance. Intel believes
that consumers can continue to use their systems with confidence, while
working with their computer manufacturer for a permanent solution.

However, some users may see degradation in the performance of SATA
devices attached to the system, whether internal or external (such as hard
drives and DVD drives). Intel is not aware of any end-user who has seen this
issue yet, but they expect it to affect a significant percentage of users
eventually, and to worsen over a three year period.

Please be assured that Micro Center will stand behind every customer who
purchased a system or a motherboard from us that features this chipset.
Intel has already made the necessary change in the manufacturing process
to correct the error, and properly functioning replacements will be available
in approximately 8 weeks.

To minimize the disruption to you, we suggest that you continue to use your
system until replacement parts are available. At that time, we will contact
you with instructions regarding how to get your motherboard replaced or your
system repaired.

PLEASE NOTE: There is no problem with the Intel 2nd Generation Core Processors themselves.

Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused by this issue,
and our assurance that we will keep you informed of any further developments.

 

[jim53]

And this from Gigabyte
http://gigabytedaily.blogspot.com/

 

[f4phantom2500]

the easiest thing would be to just get a pci/pci-e sata controller card.

 

[Dangerer]

Sounds good on MC. I'll probably just settle for an even swap for a new P8P67. Only paid $120 for it as part of the bundle, and I don't feel like forking over more money for Z68 (unless it comes with some amazing features)

 

[johnnycasaba]

Just got home and read the email from MC. Was thinking about returning my Asus P8P67 before my 30 day return period, but will just wait till the new motherboards are in and get an exchange. Kudos to MC and Intel.

 

[StriperMike]

Just got home and read the email from MC. Was thinking about returning my Asus P8P67 before my 30 day return period, but will just wait till the new motherboards are in and get an exchange. Kudos to MC and Intel.

Same situation here. It's awesome that they are being proactive and notifying customers ahead of time. Definitely gives me piece of mind.

 

[Drsignguy]

Same situation here. It's awesome that they are being proactive and notifying customers ahead of time. Definitely gives me piece of mind.

I second this

 

[JLee1469]

Thank you for the info, I am wondering about this myself. I have an Asus P8P67 from MC and am not very worried about the issue but would possibly like to return it if possible. I want the PRO or Deluxe version with SLI support...

I initially bought the $299 bundle that included the P8P67. Did further research and decided the PRO would be more suitable for my needs. Was able to step up no problem, just paid a little extra.

 

[Hogan773]

the easiest thing would be to just get a pci/pci-e sata controller card.

why wouldn't you just wait and then get a new mobo when the time comes? very unlikely even if you're using the Sata3.0 ports that they'll die in next couple months.

 

[Insomniator]

I initially bought the $299 bundle that included the P8P67. Did further research and decided the PRO would be more suitable for my needs. Was able to step up no problem, just paid a little extra.

Sounds great... man I am very excited to get a non defective SLI board and SLI with a second GTX 470... will be quite a rig by my standards!

 

[Axon]

why wouldn't you just wait and then get a new mobo when the time comes? very unlikely even if you're using the Sata3.0 ports that they'll die in next couple months.

That's what everyone should do. There's no better option on the market right now, and the ports are not going to catch on fire and kill you.