Dell Inspiron 4000: opinions? (also, recommend Linux-compatible NIC?)

[Pete]

I'm looking very hard at the Dell Inspiron 4000. I'd appreciate answers to the following:

1. Owners, what do you dis/like about it?
2. Are any of Dell's NICs Linux-compatible? Or is it cheaper to buy separately?
3. How's their Nylon carrying case?
4. Is it worth the extra $50 for the: 53WHr battery? 10GB HD? Internal combo modem/NIC?

Thanks.

 

[RossMAN]

1) I dislike that it has 8MB ATI video card instead of the 16MB ATI found in the 5000e and 8000. However DVD movies look GREAT, and I have played a few games with very little ghosting.

2) I don't know since I haven't installed Linux onto my Inspiron 4000. However if you do get the Inspiron 4000 it's DEFINITELY worth it to splurge an extra $50 to get the 56k/NIC internal combo. VERY worth it.

3) They are nice, little Dell logo, lots of pockets and storage, sufficient padding to keep your Inspiron in place. And two velcro straps which hold your laptop in place. Well worth $50 IMHO.

4) Battery? Yes
10GB HD? Yes, upgrade later with a 5400 RPM 20GB HD maybe from Onvia or Buy.com.
Internal 56k/NIC combo? Yes.

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Intel Pentium III/700 MHz CPU
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8MB ATI
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[Pete]

Thanks a lot for your reply, Rossman. I PMed you indicating I won't buy, but in case I change my mind--how do you like the blue inserts? I'm deciding between that and yellow.

 

[RossMAN]

I like the blue although it is slightly purplish, I just wish it were true blue. With the Inspiron 4000 you receive one free insert so I chose the blue. But I kind of like the generic black/grey look as it is so I doubt I'll be switching over to blue anytime soon.

 

[algae]

I really like my 5000 except for the modem, power, and network card cables all coming out of the right side of the unit. They would be much more out of the way on the left side. Maybe the 4000 is the same?
Gary