Travel Technology - Please Help With New Computer Specs

I'm in the position of needing to purchase a new laptop that must meet the following minimum specs: (1) 512 MB RAM; (2) 56K v 90K modem; (3) 802.11 b/g compliant wireless card; (4) 10/100/1000 Etherneet PC Card; (6) 40+ GB HD; (7) PC card slot; (8) 1 GB MHz processor speed.

While I'm finding that looking for a new laptop is a very educational experience, I'm also a little overwhelmed by the huge number variety of choices available. Would you all help out by guiding me with answers/advice about the following:

1) How important is it to choose a system with IEEE 1394 (FireWire) interface? What exactly is it and how does it work?

2) Is it absolutely necessary to have a digital media reader? 4-in-1 or 6-in-1? What do laptops w/o readers use?

3) What would be the smallest number of 2.0 USB ports
reasonable? Since I know that I will need at least one for (a) parallel port toUSB printer connection) and another for occasional use with (b) external 3.5" 1.44MB floppy drive, should I assume that a system with a total of 3 ports would be adequate?

4) I note that on some laptops video memory is shared DDR (128 MB or 64 MB). Is this good?

5) I also see that the network card in most systems in my price range (+/- $1K) is integrated 10/100. Should I be able to get along with this? It appears that systems with 10/100/1000 are in laptops with faster processors and llarger hard drives; this kicks prices out of my price range.

Any info, advice, and recommendations would be greatly appreciated. TIA

Hi,

If you can afford it, check out an Apple Powerbook (http://www.apple.com/powerbook/) . It has almost everything on your list (except 7).
1) Firewire is faster than usb2.0 and most useful when transferring large files frequently.
2) There are many digital media readers that can readily plug into usb ports.
3) You can purchase usb multipliers which can convert 1 usb port into 4 etc. So 2 is probably adequate.
5) You should ask if you can really utilize a 1000 network card, otherwise 100 may be sufficient.

Just my opinion.

Assuming you are looking at a Windows-based system...

1 If you are connecting to a Digital Video Recorder a FireWire port is very useful - if not USB 2.0 (get at least 2, 4 if possible) is fine as almost all accessories will connect via USB.

2 It's helpful, but not necessary. You can puchase a reader that connects via USB for $20.

3 2 at least, 4 if possible.

4 If video memory is shared with main memory it uses some of the total memory for video, so it's not as good as dedicated video memory. With 512 meg of memory, and assuming you'll be doing genral purpose work - email, word processing, etc. it should not make a significant difference. If you are going to do any type of digital photo or video editing, or heavy game playing avoid it.

5 A 10/100 card will be fine. You do not need a 1 gig port in 99% of places.

In my experience the IBM Thinkpad "T" series is the best, but it's probably out of your price range, unless you find a very good sale. I have had good luck with the Dell Inspiron laptops as well - you can find discounts on sites (such as www.techbargains.com) where you can configure a Dell portable at $1,500 or more, and take $750 off with the discount code, so finding a decent system for $1K is doable. I like the 600m for example.

Bruce

5) I also see that the network card in most systems in my price range (+/- $1K) is integrated 10/100. Should I be able to get along with this? It appears that systems with 10/100/1000 are in laptops with faster processors and llarger hard drives; this kicks prices out of my price range.

Any info, advice, and recommendations would be greatly appreciated. TIA
All you need is the integrated 10/100. Unless you have a particular need for the 1000, ("Gigabit Ethernet"), you don't need it, and you'll not really see it ever being in use. Most routers and hubs do not support 1000 (I think there's only one or two home products on the market that actually support that speed), 100/10 is the norm.

And, if you use any form of virus protection, then the simple act of copying files across a network will immediately compromise the gigibit speed advantage, because the AV protection will need to process each of the incoming files for problems, and the AV products don't do this nearly as fast as as 1000 (or even 100) Mb speeds.

My current fav:

HP DV1000 series (http://www.shopping.hp.com/webapp/shopping/computer_series.do?series_name=dv1000_series&catLevel=2&category=notebooks/hp_pavilion&storeName=computer_store)

The advise for "Powerbook" always pops up, but really isn't a viable alternative for someone that a) doesn't ask for it right away and b) has been using Windows all the time.

1) How important is it to choose a system with IEEE 1394 (FireWire) interface? What exactly is it and how does it work?


I wouldn't say "IMPORTANT", but it is convenient to have, and you'll find that most machines have it nowadays.


2) Is it absolutely necessary to have a digital media reader? 4-in-1 or 6-in-1? What do laptops w/o readers use?


Not absolutely necessary, but very convenient if you use a PDA or digital camera. Most laptops with a reader can at least read Compact Flash, SD, Memory Stick and one or more other formats. If it doesn't come with a reader built-in you can purchase one for around $20, but it is yet another part to carry.


3) What would be the smallest number of 2.0 USB ports
reasonable? Since I know that I will need at least one for (a) parallel port toUSB printer connection) and another for occasional use with (b) external 3.5" 1.44MB floppy drive, should I assume that a system with a total of 3 ports would be adequate?


3 or more is pretty normal nowadays, sadly most sub or ultra notebooks (the really small ones) don't come with more than one or two.


4) I note that on some laptops video memory is shared DDR (128 MB or 64 MB). Is this good?


Not good, not bad. It slows things down a little and you lose a little of your main memory for the video card, but unless you plan to play high demand video games you will be just fine.


5) I also see that the network card in most systems in my price range (+/- $1K) is integrated 10/100. Should I be able to get along with this? It appears that systems with 10/100/1000 are in laptops with faster processors and llarger hard drives; this kicks prices out of my price range.


Gigabit lan is pretty rare and usually reserved for corporate use between servers, it is only slowly making its way into the household. You won't be needing it.

My current fav:
The advise for "Powerbook" always pops up, but really isn't a viable alternative for someone that a) doesn't ask for it right away and b) has been using Windows all the time.

I'm sure the fact that PC Magazine and Consumer Reports just ranked the Powerbook the best in quality and reliability doesn't have anything to do with the recommendation.

The fact that Apple has scored far better in support than any other company (Web, email and phone) for five years running in Consumer Reports' studies is not relevant either. (The lead has grown year-over-year, btw.)

Having complimentary in-store support and free user workshops within a 30 minute drive of 80+% of the US population definitely hinders any viability, as shown by the doubling marketshare in the past year.

Wall Street has no faith in the viability of the product either, as we see when we look at the stock price today, which is up over 5% to another all-time high.

:D

I'm sure the fact that PC Magazine and Consumer Reports just ranked the Powerbook the best in quality and reliability doesn't have anything to do with the recommendation.

The fact that Apple has scored far better in support than any other company (Web, email and phone) for five years running in Consumer Reports' studies is not relevant either. (The lead has grown year-over-year, btw.)

Having complimentary in-store support and free user workshops within a 30 minute drive of 80+% of the US population definitely hinders any viability, as shown by the doubling marketshare in the past year.

Wall Street has no faith in the viability of the product either, as we see when we look at the stock price today, which is up over 5% to another all-time high.

:D


All these things are great, but if you've been using a Windows PC for the past 15 years then a Mac is simply not a viable alternative. It is a terribly steep learning curve, proven by the recent requests for support here in this forum.

Everything you said is true, but you are still not seeing masses of people flocking to buy a Mac. As far as the stock price goes, don't you think that might have a tiny bit to do with the iPod, the only real success product left?

I don't want yet another Apple VS Windows discussion; I just grow a little tired of mac fans trying to push THEIR platform to anyone asking for regular PC purchasing advise, I guess I can't blame them for trying...

...anyone asking for regular PC purchasing advise, I guess I can't blame them for trying...
The biggest problem Apple faces in the computer biz is the assumption that a "regular PC" has to run Windows. I see nothing in the original request for assistance that implies a Windows requirement. Even the current (Sept. 20) issue of PC Magazine, hardly a hotbed of Mac enthusiasts, suggests that Apple's lead in the quality race is so large that Windows users might well consider switching. Why shouldn't FTers make the same helpful suggestion?

The biggest problem Apple faces in the computer biz is the assumption that a "regular PC" has to run Windows. I see nothing in the original request for assistance that implies a Windows requirement. Even the current (Sept. 20) issue of PC Magazine, hardly a hotbed of Mac enthusiasts, suggests that Apple's lead in the quality race is so large that Windows users might well consider switching. Why shouldn't FTers make the same helpful suggestion?


Because no matter how awesome their quality may be, or how amazing their customer service is; a Mac is still a Mac. And you simply can not deny a steep learning curve for anyone that is not used to them. Moving from Windows to a Mac never has been easy, and never will be. No amount of customer service can make up for a totally different operating system. I know of several Linux variations with awesome customer service and a super-easy GUI, but you'll never see me advising people to move to that instead of Windows.

Face it; the biggest problem with the Mac is that it isn't Windows. And I'm willing to bet that when the Powerbook finally runs on Intel chips that people will buy them for the looks and quality, and install Windows on them.

in my price range (+/- $1K)

I dont see where a powerbook will meet this criteria, on the Apple website the 12 inch PB is $1499
just my 2 cents

in my price range (+/- $1K)

I dont see where a powerbook will meet this criteria, on the Apple website the 12 inch PB is $1499
just my 2 cents

You can get a 12" iBook for $999. Still not as good a value as others, but fits the budget nevertheless.

It would be pretty hard to get a laptop that doesn't meet your minimum requrements.

I'm partial to the Dell Insprion 600m. (Configured with SXGA+ 64M graphics).

Check the current deals on it from both Dell Home and Dell SB published on any of the deal sites, like www.dealcatcher.com (or Bens Bargains, or whatever your favorite deal site is.)

Shared memory graphics is the cheapest graphics solution you can get. It''s better to get a separate graphics chip with dedicated graphics memory. All things being equal, if you're choosing between one that uses onboard shared memory graphics vs one that uses dedicated graphics chip and memory, choose the dedicated one.

-David

All these things are great, but if you've been using a Windows PC for the past 15 years then a Mac is simply not a viable alternative. It is a terribly steep learning curve, proven by the recent requests for support here in this forum.

My 63 year-old mother used Windows for 10+ years and switched to a Mac 5 years ago. Since then, she migrated from OS 9 to OS X and can now do more on her Mac by herself than she would have ever been able to accomplish on a Windows box. This is someone who has trouble operating the washing machine. She has written a book, maintains a web site, uploads photos, etc.

This is a subjective point, but I disagree that the learning curve is steep. There is a curve, yes, but it's less steep and a great deal shorter than the equivalent for Windows. I think a lot of people are able to use their macs for more than the same people would manage to learn to do on Windows, primarily due to the consistent UI and integrated structure of the iApps.


Everything you said is true, but you are still not seeing masses of people flocking to buy a Mac. As far as the stock price goes, don't you think that might have a tiny bit to do with the iPod, the only real success product left?

Last quarter, when 7 million iPods were sold in 3 months, the iPods accounted for about a third of revenue. Profit margin on them is, of course, significantly less than the margin on CPUs. CPU sales increased more than 50% year-over-year (compared to, I think, 17% for the industry). The quarter before was much the same, as was the quarter before that. Yes, the iPod is boosting revenue and to a lesser extent profit, but Mac sales are also going through the roof and ultimately contribute much more to the bottom line.


I don't want yet another Apple VS Windows discussion; I just grow a little tired of mac fans trying to push THEIR platform to anyone asking for regular PC purchasing advise, I guess I can't blame them for trying...

They're doing the same thing you're doing by mentioning your favorite HP machine. --And, if the Consumer Reports, PC Magazine and other studies are to be believed, perhaps with more basis. :)

Because no matter how awesome their quality may be, or how amazing their customer service is; a Mac is still a Mac. And you simply can not deny a steep learning curve for anyone that is not used to them. Moving from Windows to a Mac never has been easy, and never will be...
I'm not disputing the learning curve, though I happen to agree with swise that it's easier to go Windows->Mac than the other way. My basic problem is with the underlying assumption that a personal computer has to run Windows or it's not a "regular" computer. It's the same dominant-majority mindset one finds in lots of other places: religion or ethnic background in many countries or parts of the U.S., sexual orientation, politics in my heavily Democratic area ... you name it. Most of us are in at least one minority and are very sensitive to the majority mindset in that situation, but we tend to forget it when we're on the other side. Operating systems are less of a life issue (no matter how emotional bigots in favor of any OS can get) than some of the others, but it's still the same human tendency to subconsciously marginalize small minorities.

throwing in my 2 cents...

1) USB is more widespread than firewire, but you'd be hard-pressed to find a laptop without USB. firewire's typically used for DV cameras or other high-data-quantity applications

2) digital media reader built into the laptopi s convenient if you have a digicam or mp3 player or something that uses flash media. if you only use stuff like that infrequently, you can always use an external reader, which are cheap and quiet compact these days

3) you want at least 2 USB ports, if you're getting a new laptop they'll almost definitely be USB 2.0. I would recommend going all USB if possible - parallel ports are more and more rare these days, and bulky. you're post implied you had a parallel port printer, I couldn't quite tell, but they do make parallel port to USB adapters

4) shared video memory is fine for basic uses - web surfing, office apps, etc. I wouldn't recommend it (at all) for gaming. keep in mind if it is shared, it's taking away from main sysetm memory, so I'd want at least 512mb total ram to keep things running smoothly (assuming you're running windows xp)

5) for $1k, you can definitely get a laptop with integrated wifi, and I've definitely seen laptops at that price point with 802.11g. even still, unless you need fast network access, 10/100 would be fine for most net surfing

hope this helps :)

Let me start by saving Powerbooks are very nice but everything about them is more expensive (hardware, software, later add-ons) and limited. These are also the same things that make them great stable machines. The only thing I dislike are the graphics - most windows and linux based laptops are now better.

If you want a good basic machine that runs Windows XP (most people would get frustrated with a Linux machine). Stick with the one of the big established five (Toshiba, Dell, IBM, Gateway, Sony). You did not mention 2 of the most important aspects of a laptop screen size or hd space. Screen size is one of the biggest issues because bigger screens usually mean more weight not true with hard disk size. If you get a large screen (16-17 inches) get replacemnet support/insurance. A new study have found they are most likely to break and/or be stolen. Theory is they are heavier and less balanced so people drop them more.

The best place to check out laptops is www.cnet.com by far - you even get reviews and rankings by real people.

1. Firewire is not this important. There are devices out that have only firewire but do you own one of those ? If no, it is not needed. Most newer things can be bought with USB connectors and worst case just buy a pcmcia firewire card.

2. Same here, do you have digital media ? And even if you have them you can always buy an external reader or a pcmcia adapter for cheap. I would not make this a main criteria.

3. smallest number is 1 but it needs to be USB 2.0. You can always for home usage buy a hub. I would personally prefer 2 but with my laptop I used the second one like once in the last 3 years. Worst case you plug one cable in and another one out. Floppy drives are basically not needed much anymore, I can't even remember when I used mine the last time. Rather get a CD burner or a DVD burner.

4. except for gaming shared vs. non shared won't matter. What do you plan to do with the laptop ? If it is word, excel, internet browsing etc. then it really is irrelevant.

5. You won't need a Gigabit network card. It really does not matter this much and consider that e.g. your internet connection is maybe 10 Mbit the most. Gigabit is still more used on the server side and for clients only if you shuffle HUGE amounts of data around (e.g. CAD drawings).

But judging from your questions you miss the most important issues.

First, what do you plan to use the laptop for ? Mainly at home or travel a lot with it ? How much is weight a consideration ? With laptops reliability is a very important criteria since they can break a lot more often then a desktop.

Also I would strongly recommend that you get some type of backup solution (external USB hard disk, CD burner, DVD burner, ...).

Honestly with most modern laptops speed is faster then what most people would use it for.

I buy based on reliabilty, size of the laptop and durability. I saw laptops falling apart after 6 month on the road with some of our sales people.

Also if price is a consideration you might want to check

www.techbargains.com

once in a while to see what deals are out.

Last quarter, when 7 million iPods were sold in 3 months, the iPods accounted for about a third of revenue. Profit margin on them is, of course, significantly less than the margin on CPUs. CPU sales increased more than 50% year-over-year (compared to, I think, 17% for the industry). The quarter before was much the same, as was the quarter before that. Yes, the iPod is boosting revenue and to a lesser extent profit, but Mac sales are also going through the roof and ultimately contribute much more to the bottom line.


I have a piece of news for you: stock prices don't always have to do with profit ;)

I'm willing to bet that many people on Wall Street couldn't name 3 different Apple computers, but could probably name every single iPod there is :D

My opinion: without the iPod Apple would have died last year.

So; what big iPod news can we expect today? :D

Wow... Thank you, to each and everyone who chimed in here with info, advice, comments and/or recommendations. I appreciate all of your comments.

Sorry, I forgot to mention that I am looking for Windows based system (although the Apple vs. Windows discussion was enlightening too...).

You all have pretty much widened my horizons ^ ^ and I now have a much better understanding of the meaning of these spec numbers I am looking at!

And that leaves me with just a few more questions:

1) Most systems I see in this price range are running Windows XP Home Edition. Can this be upgraded to Windows XP Professional? Installed or would I have to purchase upgrade software and do it myself? Does self installing of an upgrade change the benefit of the service agreement or warranty?

2) Is there a way to tell how RAM is installed if it is not speciffically mentioned in the specs? i.e., two 1 x 256K using two slots, or 1 x 512K in one slot? Affecting ability to upgrade RAM (in case I suddenly get the urge for heavy gaming?) :D

3) Would any of you consider buying a refurbished system (former top of the line model in its series)? Why or why not? If so, what would you expect in terms of warranty and/or service agmt etc.

4) Other than price, what are some of the factors you would consider in making the final decision; i.e., for example, what technical spec for you would be the deal maker?

Again, TIA for your participation here and your support.

1) you would need to buy an upgrade. But there should be no reason. Home edition should work perfectly well for all your needs.

2) Almost every laptop will have at least 1 slot open to install more ram. You would need to look at the manufacturers web site to find out how much and how to install it. Actually ram is a big saving if you buy 3rd party ram instead of oem. I just bought 512 MB additional ram for my private spare laptop for around 40$.

3) I would probably not buy refurb looking at how inexpensive you can get brand new models. I would buy slightly older models, e.g. the IBM T42 (ok Leonvo :) ) is a very nice laptop and there is hardly any difference to the T43. By not buying the greatest newest model you can save a bundle and won't really loose out this much.

4) For me technical specs really don't matter this much. Consider that the processor is the same for all (either Intel or AMD), the hard disk is from a similar manufacturer with similar specs, USB is USB, whether your CD writer does 12x or 16x speed hardly matters. Almost every laptop should have what you need. I would look at reliability, general look and feel, repair history, how much a 3 year warranty is (a laptop is one of the view things I would buy extended warranty for).

Also in my experience if you buy on your own money you are better off buying the second best cheaper model and rather replace it a little earlier. Instead of spending 2000$ on the newest greatest you can spend 1000$ now, resell it later on fleabay and buy a new one. Even your 2000$ model is outdated when you unpack it. I would also look at the keyboard, screen etc. Also do you plan to watch DVD's (movies) on it ? If you do that a lot a wide screen model might be nice.

I have very good personal experience with IBM laptop's and really like their look and feel (nice keyboard, etc.) but they are pricey.

the specs should tell you the ram configuration. usually cheaper models have ram split across sticks, so 512mb would be 2x256mb, which may be the only 2 slots you have. ram upgrades for laptops purchased from the retailer tend to be overpriced, so you might be better off buying a model with a single stick and upgrading on your own

as for refurbished, I would only buy if it's notably cheaper and has at least a 1yr warranty. in general the longer the warranty the better, since laptops can be delicate. battery is important too - I'd want at least 2 hours, and a second battery included or offered as a cheap add-on is a plus. don't forget weight, if you're a traveler lightweight is key, though it usually means compromising on screen size...I myself would love a widescreen model, but then you're talking at least 6-7 pounds...

I'd like to add two issues that affect me:
1. travel weight, go for the lighter/lightest models if you travel a lot. An 8 pound laptop plus AC adapter plus spare battery is a lot to lug around.
2. Battery life. Go for the model with the extra battery life (usually Intel Centrino models) or an extra battery. You can never have enough battery life.

Bob

I have a piece of news for you: stock prices don't always have to do with profit ;)

Definitely true, though nothing in the bit you quoted mentioned anything about stock price. :) I should have mentioned that after two unprofitable quarters, it took three quarters of marked profitability (exceeding analyst expectations) before the stock price would reflect the financial gains. It has only been in the last few quarters that Apple has been rewarded with stock bounces following earnings announcements.

I'm willing to bet that many people on Wall Street couldn't name 3 different Apple computers, but could probably name every single iPod there is :D

That's not really relevant. Many people on Wall Street can't name 3 different Dell computers, or 3 different products from Microsoft besides Windows.

My opinion: without the iPod Apple would have died last year.

If you had followed the company as closely as I have from the vantage point I have, you might have noticed that the $4.5 billion cash reserve nestegg made the company extremely difficult to sink. Even in the worst of quarters, when marketshare shrunk down to less than 2% and growth was extremely limited, the combination of the cash reserve and the extremely lean way the company operates day-to-day (we're talking tight belt, Lance Armstrong no fat lean -- and even today in much better times we still operate the same way), the company never lost more than it could make up in the proceeds of its cash reserves. In fact, the correlation was uncanny.

The cash reserve today is up to $7.5 Billion.


So; what big iPod news can we expect today? :D

:) now we know. Steve Shows really are quite fun, aren't they? And to think some people criticize Apple for being so secretive. Everyone loves a surprise.

All these things are great, but if you've been using a Windows PC for the past 15 years then a Mac is simply not a viable alternative. It is a terribly steep learning curve, proven by the recent requests for support here in this forum.
If you've been using a Windows PC for 15 years, then you must have been an early adopter on Windows 3.0!

If you've been using a Windows PC for 15 years, then you must have been an early adopter on Windows 3.0!

Actually, earlier than that :)

I had Windows 1.01. It was terrible.

I'm in the position of needing to purchase a new laptop that must meet the following minimum specs: (1) 512 MB RAM; (2) 56K v 90K modem; (3) 802.11 b/g compliant wireless card; (4) 10/100/1000 Etherneet PC Card; (6) 40+ GB HD; (7) PC card slot; (8) 1 GB MHz processor speed.

These specs are impossible. Corrections:

56k v90 modem.
1Ghz processor.

1) How important is it to choose a system with IEEE 1394 (FireWire) interface? What exactly is it and how does it work?

It could be very useful if you have a firewire device you want to hook up. Likely candidates are video cameras. Otherwise you'll probably never use it.

2) Is it absolutely necessary to have a digital media reader? 4-in-1 or 6-in-1? What do laptops w/o readers use?

Again, do you want to read digital media? You have to answer this based on what you expect to do with it. Note that you can get inexpensive external readers. Obviously this adds bulk to you bag.

3) What would be the smallest number of 2.0 USB ports
reasonable? Since I know that I will need at least one for (a) parallel port toUSB printer connection) and another for occasional use with (b) external 3.5" 1.44MB floppy drive, should I assume that a system with a total of 3 ports would be adequate?

How often will you use that external floppy??? For most purposes thumbdrives are superior. I'm in the laptop market myself right now and the unit I've almost settled on has no internal floppy. I expect to use my external *ONCE* during setup.

4) I note that on some laptops video memory is shared DDR (128 MB or 64 MB). Is this good?

Bad.

5) I also see that the network card in most systems in my price range (+/- $1K) is integrated 10/100. Should I be able to get along with this? It appears that systems with 10/100/1000 are in laptops with faster processors and llarger hard drives; this kicks prices out of my price range.

I wouldn't worry about the /1000. It's rare that it's going to make much difference, and the /1000 is a bit of a misnomer anyway. While the wires handle that there's no ordinary PC that can actually do that, the best you get is the equivalent of about /300. Gigabit is total overkill compared to the rest of what you speced.

All you need is the integrated 10/100. Unless you have a particular need for the 1000, ("Gigabit Ethernet"), you don't need it, and you'll not really see it ever being in use. Most routers and hubs do not support 1000 (I think there's only one or two home products on the market that actually support that speed), 100/10 is the norm.

There are plenty of gigabit switches out there in a home type configuration.

However, unless you have other gigabit equipment to connect it to you won't get *ANY* advantage from it.

I wouldn't worry about the /1000. It's rare that it's going to make much difference, and the /1000 is a bit of a misnomer anyway. While the wires handle that there's no ordinary PC that can actually do that, the best you get is the equivalent of about /300. Gigabit is total overkill compared to the rest of what you speced.

Wouldn't agree with that. On my office LAN I get exctly 10* the speed I had on my 100mbit lan. It all comes down to a good set of cables and a speedy drive to serve off it.

Wouldn't agree with that. On my office LAN I get exctly 10* the speed I had on my 100mbit lan. It all comes down to a good set of cables and a speedy drive to serve off it.

The PCI bus can't even handle gigabit.

2) Almost every laptop will have at least 1 slot open to install more ram. You would need to look at the manufacturers web site to find out how much and how to install it. Actually ram is a big saving if you buy 3rd party ram instead of oem. I just bought 512 MB additional ram for my private spare laptop for around 40$.

Most laptops these days use DDR memory and that's better used in pairs. 2x256 is not only cheaper than 1x512 but faster.

So I take it that this means that where a system has only two memory slots, 1 x 256K + 1 x 512K should not be done, as it is inefficient. So must do 2 x 256K OR 2 x 512K to properly upgrade memory.

You folks are mixing and matching technology.

Any machine that supports Dual Channel DDR should have dimms allocated in matched pairs. If it doesn't support dual channel DDR, then you can (and often should) just buy it with 1 dimm, depending on how much they charge for the upgrade to 1 dimm. (Sometimes it's not worth it, then you go with the 2 dimms and throw one or both away when it comes time to upgrade.)

-David

David, I don't know what a "dimm" is (unless its the proper term for a memory slot?). (thus, I don't really understand your answer to my question)

Wikipedia or google are your friend :)

A dimm is a memory module.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DIMM

TYVM, Expat!

You can get a 12" iBook for $999. Still not as good a value as others, but fits the budget nevertheless.


Sorry, didnt look at the ibooks because the recomendation and link were for the powerbook specifically

David, I don't know what a "dimm" is (unless its the proper term for a memory slot?). (thus, I don't really understand your answer to my question)

Sorry .. DIMM stands for Dual Inline Memory Module. In laymens terms, it's a memoy module. A memory module consists of a bunch of memory chips, and some control circuitry around them, all on a small circuit board module that plugs into a memory slot on a computer.

-David

since we're talking about laptops here, keep in mind laptops take sodimm modules (small outline dimm)

OK, so armed with the info and insight I've picked up from your comments, spent the past two days shopping. :eek:

Was able to firmly reject some suggestions from salespeople who were pushing things I didn't need at all; and get some rational recommendations for systems in my price range.

So, I am trying to wade through the info I have gathered on several systems and narrow down choices from the following:

Toshiba Satellite M55-S135 PC Notebook
Toshiba Satellite M45-S165 PC Notebook

Compaq Presario V2310US PC Notebook (w/AMD Turion 64 Processor ML-28)
Compaq Presario V2311US PC Notebook (w/AMD Turion 64 Processor ML-28)
Compaq Presario V2306US PC Notebook

HP Pavilion DV1310
HP Pavilion DV1040 (refurbished)
HP Paviliion ZE series notebook

Again, any comments or suggestions anyone may care to make regarding any experience or ideas about any of these choices would be appreciated. TIA

OK, so armed with the info and insight I've picked up from your comments, spent the past two days shopping. :eek:

Was able to firmly reject some suggestions from salespeople who were pushing things I didn't need at all; and get some rational recommendations for systems in my price range.

So, I am trying to wade through the info I have gathered on several systems and narrow down choices from the following:

Toshiba Satellite M55-S135 PC Notebook
Toshiba Satellite M45-S165 PC Notebook

Compaq Presario V2310US PC Notebook (w/AMD Turion 64 Processor ML-28)
Compaq Presario V2311US PC Notebook (w/AMD Turion 64 Processor ML-28)
Compaq Presario V2306US PC Notebook

HP Pavilion DV1310
HP Pavilion DV1040 (refurbished)
HP Paviliion ZE series notebook

Again, any comments or suggestions anyone may care to make regarding any experience or ideas about any of these choices would be appreciated. TIA


It'll pretty much all come down to pricing and esthetics of the machine. I've posted it a 1000 times, but I love my HP DV1040 series. Not a big Toshiba fan anymore. You really don't need (or want) an AMD Turion CPU at the moment.

You really don't need (or want) an AMD Turion CPU at the moment.

Why not?

I have been planning to replace both desktop and laptop. Do I need to make both choices at once? Are there compatability concerns?

I'm planning on XP Home, have basic DSL, only use wireless by-the-day sometimes when away, and need the two machines to somehow communicate. (Currently I use dial-up from the laptop and email accumulated laptop material to myself when I get home. That's sufficient.)

Laptop use is word processing, writing email (which I send at home), sometimes using an htm editor (for reports which I upload from home). Most important is weight, and a keyboard on which I can touch type.

Desktop is similar, a bit more software, etc. I don't do music, movies, ... I do get frustrated with slow web access, so memory matters, ...

I'm looking at the Sony T series, Averatec 1040 and Panasonic R4 for lightest laptops, have not at all made any choices for desktop (that seems just a box), have a keyboard I like, use a track ball which I might upgrade, and will purchase a flat screen monitor which I haven't researched either (past ones after looking at several, have been Sony).

And I guess upgrading most of my non-Microsoft software too.

Input?

Sylvia

One of the things I love about my HP is its docking station:

http://www.shopping.hp.com/webapp/shopping/product_detail.do?product_code=PA399A%23ABA

It turns my notebook into a full blown desktop machine. It can also hold an additional hard drive. Can be found on Ebay for around $150.

In the case of the two Toshiba models I am looking at--the only real differences that I see in the specs are for the chipsets.

Both laptops have Intel Celeron M 1.5GHz w/processor #370; 400MHz FSB. But one chipset is ATI RADEON XPRESS 200M IGP, while the other chipset is Intel 910 GML.

Can anyone tell me what is the difference, if any, between the two, and, in the long run, how will it matter?

I'm in the position of needing to purchase a new laptop that must meet the following minimum specs: (1) 512 MB RAM; (2) 56K v 90K modem; (3) 802.11 b/g compliant wireless card; (4) 10/100/1000 Etherneet PC Card; (6) 40+ GB HD; (7) PC card slot; (8) 1 GB MHz processor speed.

While I'm finding that looking for a new laptop is a very educational experience, I'm also a little overwhelmed by the huge number variety of choices available. Would you all help out by guiding me with answers/advice about the following:

1) How important is it to choose a system with IEEE 1394 (FireWire) interface? What exactly is it and how does it work?

-Not important at all unless you have something that is Firewire ONLY, and I doubt you do. Not a show stopper.

2) Is it absolutely necessary to have a digital media reader? 4-in-1 or 6-in-1? What do laptops w/o readers use?

-Not unless you need to plug in the memory/flash card from a camera to upload pictures, and besides that, you can add on an external USB digital media reader (plug it into the USB port) when you need it, you can find them for $20 if you look around. Not a show stopper.

3) What would be the smallest number of 2.0 USB ports
reasonable? Since I know that I will need at least one for (a) parallel port toUSB printer connection) and another for occasional use with (b) external 3.5" 1.44MB floppy drive, should I assume that a system with a total of 3 ports would be adequate?

-Again, you can add on a 1-into-4 USB splitter if you need it for like $20 bucks, you want at least 2 USB ports otherwise. Floppies are being replaced by USB flash drives.

4) I note that on some laptops video memory is shared DDR (128 MB or 64 MB). Is this good?

-if you don't do graphics-intensive applications like some high-end shoot-em-up or car chase games, for solitaire it's fine. What you need to watch out for in memory is the ABILITY to add more (later), some laptops the memory is soldered in, some have only 1 slot, you want a laptop with 2 slots and the ability to remove the memory that comes with it and upgrade (later). I suggest buying memory from a place such as 'memory4less.com' and saving a ton of money. They have 1 gig of laptop memory for $120-140,
512mb for around $60. You want no less than 512, so if it comes with 256mb, add 256 ($35-40) or add a 512 to bring it to 768mb.

5) I also see that the network card in most systems in my price range (+/- $1K) is integrated 10/100. Should I be able to get along with this? It appears that systems with 10/100/1000 are in laptops with faster processors and llarger hard drives; this kicks prices out of my price range.

-you probably won't use 1000 for awhile, if ever, to be honest, and you probably will get a 40 gig to 80 gig HD and only use 8-10 gig of it.

-OH - BE SURE YOUR LAPTOP YOU BUY COMES WITH A BATTERY - SOME DON'T - THEY ADD IT AS AN OPTION FOR $120+.

Any info, advice, and recommendations would be greatly appreciated. TIA

There are several really good laptops out there for under $1,000, if you are in the USA see www.salescircular.com for a compilation of sunday newspaper ads in all 50 states.
Thinkpad.com has a good IBM Thinkpad R50e for $849 but for what they want for extra memory is a total rip-off - for 1 gig they want $720 but you can buy it elsewhere for $155 or so, Best Buy has a good Sony Vaio for $899, Dell has several models for between $500 and $1,000, as does Toshiba.

In the case of the two Toshiba models I am looking at--the only real differences that I see in the specs are for the chipsets.

Both laptops have Intel Celeron M 1.5GHz w/processor #370; 400MHz FSB. But one chipset is ATI RADEON XPRESS 200M IGP, while the other chipset is Intel 910 GML.

Can anyone tell me what is the difference, if any, between the two, and, in the long run, how will it matter?
The difference is the graphics. I don't know the relative value of them, though.

There are several really good laptops out there for under $1,000, if you are in the USA see www.salescircular.com for a compilation of sunday newspaper ads in all 50 states.

Thanks for the tip on salescircular.com. ^ This particular report carries only national electronics and office supply chain store info (i.e, circuit city, best buy, staples, office max etc) but no info on the larger local stores; also by the time they update their website with the current info (usually Sunday PM) I've already received my Sunday paper (~5AM) and consolidated the ad info myself! :D

And Loren, regarding the chipsets, you are right about the graphics. This was explained to me by a really nice salesperson at J&R Music World (NYC). In the long run it will not make any difference to me unless I suddenly turn into a heavy graphics user (i.e., video editing or video games etc.) :)

So, now that (1) I'm armed and ready for the 21st century in computing, I now have a second project which is (2) to get my "baby laptop" into the 20th century. :D :D My thought is to continue to use it for word processing (typing the diss) because I am very used to the keyboard and the first part of my diss (MA thesis) is already in hand and formated in this WP program; and my hobby (word games, ie. tangleword, scrabble, boggle etc :) ). Also can continue to use for dial-up internet.

Currently, this laptop has 32MB RAM (max 96MB) and 4GB HD (max~8GB) rotation speed 4,009 rpm; processor is 266MHz Pentium (R) w/MMX technology; 64 bit video card w/2MB EDO DRAM.

What I have in mind @:-) is to attempt to update from WIN95 to WIN98 so that I can use a jump/flash drive in the USB port to back up the diss. (cannot use USB port now as WIN95 has no code...first used with WIN98)

Yes, I know she is a dinosaur...but this little baby got me through college, grad school, law school and a few other miscellaneous programs, and now I hope that she will be with me through the final stretch!! :D :D

I'm rather late to this thread. Good discussion so far.

(1) 512 MB RAM; (2) 56K v 90K modem; (3) 802.11 b/g compliant wireless card; (4) 10/100/1000 Etherneet PC Card; (6) 40+ GB HD; (7) PC card slot; (8) 1 GB MHz processor speed.

As with earlier posters, I also agree that gigabit Ethernet shouldn't be that big a concern, as it's not that widely available on noteboook computers. That said, I think IBM's got this as an option on many models.

I would advise going for 1 GB of memory. Adding more memory is one of the most cost effective ways to boost performance.

1) How important is it to choose a system with IEEE 1394 (FireWire) interface? What exactly is it and how does it work?

FireWire is a different type of bus, similar in some respects to USB as both let you connect external devices to your PC. Some differences like USB uses a root/hub/branch type topology, whereas FireWire does daisy chaining to connect multiple devices. Performance comparable between FireWire 400 and USB 2.0; one or the other might be slightly faster depending on the device. DV-type camcorders use the FireWire interface to transfer data to the computer. Some external hard drives come with both FireWire and USB interfaces, though you can only use one at a time, of course.

2) Is it absolutely necessary to have a digital media reader? 4-in-1 or 6-in-1? What do laptops w/o readers use?

Digital media readers are convenient for travel with a digital camera where you need to dump the files onto your computer as the memory card fills up. My notebook doesn't have a built-in memory card reader (save for the Sony Memory Stick), so I bought a SanDisk 6-in-1 PC Card adapter (http://www.sandisk.com/retail/pca.asp) so that I can read my SD cards. The mini external USB card readers suggested by others are another viable option.

3) What would be the smallest number of 2.0 USB ports
reasonable? Since I know that I will need at least one for (a) parallel port toUSB printer connection) and another for occasional use with (b) external 3.5" 1.44MB floppy drive, should I assume that a system with a total of 3 ports would be adequate?

I would say two as the bare minimum, 3 or 4 would be better.

4) I note that on some laptops video memory is shared DDR (128 MB or 64 MB). Is this good?

Shared means the video frame buffer is using up part of the main memory, so you'd have to take your 512 MB and subtract off 64 or 128 MB. This would be another good reason to consider 1 GB of main memory.

FewMiles..

Hmmm....a few months later....

I really love my HP DV1420, but am having serious separation issues with my old Compaq Armada 1598DMT :D

My current thought is that since my HP does not have a 1.44 floppy drive, I should network the two using an ethernet (RJ45 to RJ45) wire via the Compaq's (WIN 95) existing ethernet 10/100 cc adaptor to transfer data from the 10 billion+ 1.44 floppies I have ;) . I figger it'll be a trifle slow, but eventually will get me where I'm going without having to shell out more $ for a USB floppy drive.

I presume one system should be host and the other guest? Which should be which? Is it better to have system running XP designated host? Is there a "networking for dummies" with a step by step instruction booklet??? :eek: :eek:

Thoughts? Ideas? Any comments and/or constructive criticism would be greatly appreciated!