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Shegirl

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Shegirl

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October 14th, 2007 00:00

General Notebook Question

I've probably posted this in the wrong section but I'm having a hard time deciding what I should purchase.  I need a new laptop for school.  I'm taking classes on line, I don't want the bottom of the line but I don't need the most expensive.  I might multi-task only to the point of listening to music while working on line or typing a paper in Microsoft word.
 
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
  • ejn63

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    Posted October 14th, 2007 00:00

    If you need a solid mid-range notebook, the Latitude D830 is a good choice. Slightly smaller is the Latitude D630.

    There are Inspirons at lower prices in this size range (1520, 1420) if you're willing to trade some fit/finish/build quality for a lower price.
  • Shegirl

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    Posted October 14th, 2007 01:00

    What about processor speed/Hard drive size/Memory?  I don't want too little nor do I need to much.  I think I keep adding things that I might not really need.
     
    thank you for your advice.  :)
  • ejn63

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    Posted October 14th, 2007 09:00

    Just about any CPU is capable of what you want it to do. 2G is a minimum if you're going to be running Vista.
  • jcn77056

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    Posted October 15th, 2007 12:00

    Having both a D630 and D830, I'd opt for the D630.  It's lighter and easier to carry with almost no difference in performance.  The main difference is it can fit in my laptop bag. :smileyhappy:
     
    If you're just planning to type papers and the like, I'd suggest the following:
    • D630 with standard CPU
    • Windows XP (Home or Pro)
    • 1Gb memory
    • If you're planning on taking the laptop to class and the library without the power supply, get the 9 cell battery.
    • Add the $29 Bluetooth module, it will come in handy later.
    • If you can afford it, pay the extra $49 or $99 and get a 7200rpm hard drive
    • Add the $149 3 year Next Business Day on-site support.

    If that's too much to spend on a laptop, you might look at the Vostro 1500.

    If these options are still too much money, I'd suggest the following options until you get to the price point you can afford:
    • Dell Outlet - here.  They have some good deals but it requires some digging.
    • Inspiron - I've not been happy with the quality of the Inspiron line.  They don't seem to hold up.
    • Not Dell - Every laptop maker has it's critics and horror stories and you won't get much help at the big box stores.
    Hope this helps.
     
  • Shegirl

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    Posted October 15th, 2007 20:00

    Thank you very much.  It does help.  Those were the specifications I was looking into except for the bluetooth.  You think that's a good investment, I'll look into it.
     
    Thanks again!!! 
  • jcn77056

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    Posted October 15th, 2007 21:00

    The bluetooth module is relatively cheap and isn't something you'd really want to add later.  It requires a screwdriver. :smileysurprised:
     
    If you really like to listen to music, having a bluetooth (wireless) headset is nice.  You aren't tied to the computer with a cord.