Laptops...

HemlockGrey · Post by **HemlockGrey** » 2003-09-13 09:32am

My computer hunt goes on, but now I consider a laptop. Any suggestions? Preferably, one that is around 1-1.5 ghz, has a fairly large sized memory, can play Medieval: Total War at a decent graphics setting, and does not cost over 1200 dollars.

El Moose Monstero · Post by **El Moose Monstero** » 2003-09-13 09:54am

I saw one on the Compaq website for 999 dollars (with 100 dollar rebate), with a 2 ghz processor, 64mb Radeon card, 256 DDR and 40 GB memory...

Think it was the Presario 2172us or something.

Alyeska · Post by **Alyeska** » 2003-09-13 11:10am

40 GB of memory? That must be fucking expensive since most computers only come with 256mb or 512mb standard.

Oh, you meant 40 GB of HARD DRIVE space. Memory=RAM.

HemlockGrey · Post by **HemlockGrey** » 2003-09-14 12:28am

That Compaq deal seems fairly attractive...any other thoughts?

Howedar · Post by **Howedar** » 2003-09-14 03:02am

I've got a HP Ze4430, and I've had nothing but good luck. Some people have really bad luck with HP though, so bear that in mind.

Crayz9000 · Post by **Crayz9000** » 2003-09-14 03:04am

Try for an IBM. They're usually highly reliable.

Howedar · Post by **Howedar** » 2003-09-14 03:39am

IBM is definately one of the top laptop makers, but you certainly pay for it.

phongn · Post by **phongn** » 2003-09-14 02:36pm

You really, really pay extra for it. However, you might be able to find an ex-IBM employee or a stockholder so you can get a better deal. Also, there's the IBM eBay Store where you can usually get some good deals.

HemlockGrey · Post by **HemlockGrey** » 2003-09-14 04:35pm

Now...about Internet. If I wanted to, say, be able to use DSL on the laptop, what would be required?

Vendetta · Post by **Vendetta** » 2003-09-14 05:13pm

Most laptops come with a network adapter built in.

But really, you'd want to splash out and go wireless.

Wireless router + wireless PCMCIA (if you choose a laptop without wireless built in) will probably set you back about $200 extra, but, well, internet everywhere.

phongn · Post by **phongn** » 2003-09-14 05:36pm

Plug your DSL modem into your laptop via crossover ethernet cable. USB modems work, but they suck.

WLANs are useful for laptops, but are insecure, so be careful.

HemlockGrey · Post by **HemlockGrey** » 2003-09-14 06:43pm

Well, the 'internet everywhere' option sounds very appealing.

El Moose Monstero · Post by **El Moose Monstero** » 2003-09-15 07:18am

Alyeska wrote:40 GB of memory? That must be fucking expensive since most computers only come with 256mb or 512mb standard.

Oh, you meant 40 GB of HARD DRIVE space. Memory=RAM.

Yeh, yeh, yeh... spot the dumbass who got his terms the wrong way round...

Ypoknons · Post by **Ypoknons** » 2003-09-15 11:07am

There's Dell's 1100 series. Or the 5100 series.

phongn · Post by **phongn** » 2003-09-15 11:16am

Dell Inspiron usually isn't made that well, though (exception being their new 600M)