laptop questions for you computer nerds - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

frosty · #1 05-23-2003, 01:21 AM

Hi all!

It's about time I replace my computer of 5+ years (without any upgrades during those years!). It's really a dinosaur now and the specs are laughable. It has been good to me, but lately I came to the realization that it's time for a NEW computer. I've been thinking of a new desktop, and a friend suggested that I go with DELL. I was looking at more of those mom and pop computer places where they put generic systems (namebrand processors though) together. Well, that was like a month ago and I have not put in any effort to shop for a new system, as I'm not sure what is out there (and also I'm not sure what is good...in other words, I'm a computer dummy). But now I really NEED--not want--a new system! My faithful computer is showing signs of crapping out on me. I've decided not to get a desktop but instead get a DELL laptop. My friend got one from them, and I am impressed! Now I know laptops are mainly for people on the go, but I fell in love with the idea of having a computer with me at any place. The fact that a laptop has the same capability as a desktop has made me really consider one. The portability issue is just a bonus for me. Okay, to the nitty-gritty. I want to get a DELL laptop. Do you computer snobs recommend this brand? Someone told me they break down because they use generic parts. Is that true? I plan to get the top of the line model. For such a model, what comes standard? For example, what is the standard screen size (yes, this does matter to me!). It seems 15" is considered standard on most top-line laptops. What processor, speed, memory, what kind of memory, etc. Also, is it even wise to consider a laptop for someone who doesn't travel much or have a job that has "clients" to take care of on the move? Are desktops more powerful? I have heard that laptops are hard and $$$ to upgrade, but that's not an issue with me, as I don't upgrade much. Thanks!

#2 05-23-2003, 01:37 AM

I don't know too much about computers, but I buy mine from a custom shop. They take your order and they usually have the machine ready in a couple weeks. Its cheaper because you only pay for what you need, and they'll usually be able to service and upgrade it for you later. I'm not too sure if you can get a laptop at a place like that, but it's worth a shot. I've heard some iffy things about Dell, but I've never used one or see one used. Also, I'm more of a desktop guy, but some laptops are pretty good. You might want to check out a powerbook from Mac. My friend swears by Macs, and I find that they aren't so bad either. Anyways, good luck.

#3 05-23-2003, 01:56 AM

ive bought 3 systems from dell. all desktops, no laptops.

as for DELL: my experience is this. yes, component failures. good news was replacement parts were on fed-x for next day delivery. bad news was having to reload software etc.

as for big retail chains: bought compaq from best buys. yes, component failures. good news was none. bad news was system gone for weeks while BB sent to their service center for repairs. it was a terrible experience. just bought a compaq laptop from BB was extended warranty due to pricing/availability.

as for laptops: expect to pay approx $1500 for a CURRENT high spec model with 15"/P4M/512MB/50GB/DVD/CD-RW/etc.etc.etc. you could probably pay less than half that for a desktop. its been argued here that a desktop is a better cost effective solution. thats true. also that desktop is easier upgraded. also true. when was the last time you upgraded? yeah, thats what i thought.

display: the LCD on my compaq laptops are WAY better than any monitor ive ever had at home or at work.

portability: work in the living room, bedroom, dining, deck, pool, camping, friends, on the can (sick b#stard), ANYWHERE !!!

dell and gateway both have "closeouts" and refurb areas on their sites that offer pretty good discounts and selection of products.

if you have the bucks, i think you would be very happy if you get a QUALITY laptop. dont get a cheap generic mom and pop one.

upgrades: my experience is that if you have a system for several years, by that time, its more cost effective to replace than to upgrade.

i hope that helps some. - benton

pentoman · #4 05-23-2003, 07:43 AM

I'm a computing student, so naturally I know many of these 'nerds' of which you speak. One guy I live with has a an entirely water-cooled computer, he built all by himself. My computer, for some reason, only gets treated to pretty poor workmanship (I save the good stuff for my car!).

I built an air-directing shroud from an old pizza box so that I can use a larger and quieter 70mm fan to cool the CPU, and sleep with the PC on. It's overclocked quite a bit too.

A friend has a DELL desktop, and I'm very impressed with the build of it. You can take it apart really quickly, and there's many neat touches inside (air directing shrouds etc.) that you wouldn't expect to find inside a PC - 'where the consumer can't see it'. It's also very quiet.

I recommend them because the quality displayed is pretty good.

DieselHead · #5 05-23-2003, 09:43 AM

I used to have a Dell laptop, but didn't really like it. As far as laptops go, it was superb, and I would recommend it, along with IBM Thinkpads, of which I own one as well. I think Dell and IBM make the best. I'm kind of a computer nerd though, and are pretty picky about what I use.

The computer I'm typing on now I put together myself (I water cooled it for silent operation) and the portable machine I use most is a little atypical. It's a Sharp Mobilon Tripad (link below) and it runs off Windows CE. What does this mean? It's a stripped down windows with basic functions: Word, Powerpoint, Excel, Access, Internet Explorer, but it runs on a machine that doesn't have any moving parts. There are no disk drives or CD drives, it syncs with the computer via a cable, and uses compactflash cards (much like a digital camera) to store programs and files. The downside is that it's not a full computer. The upside is that it has tremedous battery life (about 10-12 hours of useage) and is never turned off (it's only put on standby). Also, it produces NO heat. Oh, AND I can surf the net via a wireless network card I bought for it (it fits in the compactflash slot). There's another thing I recommend, a wireless network if you have highspeed. That's the topic for another thread.

I don't think laptops should try to be desktops. They're productivity machines and I think the most important features are battery life and portability, and I think Windows CE devices have full laptops beat in both these categories. I really love not having to wait for my machine to boot up, and I love how it doesn't make my lap or the surface it's on hot.

Dell is great though, I have a Centrino processor which I highly recommend. It has a low clock speed (1.3GHz) but crunches as many computations as a P4 2.5GHz, all while using little power and staying cool. Battery life is at an excellent 4 hrs.

IBM is probably better than dell, but more expensive. I have an R32 P4 2.0GHz-M and it's absolutely solid and reliable, if a little bit boring. It doesn't see too much action.

Whatever you decide, stay away from Gateway.

Alex

NOTE: The Vadem Clio is the same as the Sharp Tripad