• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Need opinions on laptop purchase

R

RJHNY1

Member
Hey guys, my sister wants a laptop since she is moving out and needs a computer for her new apartment.

The use of the computer is for internet, word processing, and just general use. She also wants the computer be able to accommodate Windows Vista in case if she wants to upgrade it in the future. Her price range is $1000 or so.

This is the deal I'm looking at.

From bensbargains.net

"Deal:Inspiron 6400 1.66GHz 512MB 60GB 15.4" $729 at Dell Business Click Here Discuss (0) : History : Posted 11:15 AM PDT 08/30/06 by BenEnter E-Value code 6W300-i6400lo and configure the Inspiron 6400 Notebook with Intel Core 2 Duo processor T5500 1.66GHz for $729 shipped. Tax is charged. Comes with a free customizable skin.

Intel Core 2 Duo 1.66GHz, 15.4" XGA, 512MB DDR2, 60GB Drive, 24x CDRW/DVD

10/100 + 56k + 802.11g, 53 WHr 6-cell Battery, XP Home, 1-Yr Warranty"

This is what the specs look like for now.

Inspiron 6400 Intel® Core? 2 Duo processor T5500 (2MB Cache/1.66GHz/667MHz FSB)
Operating System (Office software not included) Genuine Windows® XP Home
Operating System Re-Installation CD PC Restore recovery system by Symantec
LCD Panel 15.4 inch Wide Screen XGA Display
Memory 1GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 533MHz, 2 Dimm
Hard Drive 120GB 5400rpm SATA Hard Drive
Additional Storage and Backup None
Combo/DVD+RW Drives 8X CD/DVD Burner (DVD+/-RW) with double-layer DVD+R write capability
Video Card 128MB ATI MOBILITY? RADEON® X1300 HyperMemory?
Sound Options Integrated Audio
Primary Battery 53 WHr 6-cell Lithium Ion Primary Battery
Additional Power Adapter None
Wireless Routers None
Wireless Networking Cards Dell Wireless 1390 802.11b/g Mini Card (54Mbps)


Do you guys recommend this computer? Will it be able to support Vista?
 
Yes that should work well, much better than with just intel motherboard graphics.

If you can move up to the Radeon X1400 for under $50 more it might be worth it to add the extra 3D power in case she ever wants to play a game.
 
She's really not the video game playing type of girl. So that makes no difference to her.

If it looks good, what other upgrades should be made? $750 (the price where it stands about), she can definitely afford to upgrade a few parts here and there.

Any other necessary upgrades so this computer has a longer life?
 
If she isn't a college student it migh be good to get MS Office at the bundled price.

(Students can get the academic version or even a free version if the university has a site license)
 
I can't tell by the OP why a laptop is needed as opposed to a desktop. Since your sister has a $1000 budget would it not make sense in terms of value for her money to get a desktop which can deliver the same or better performance for less money than your proposed laptop deal?
 
She already has microsoft office.

She wants a laptop so she can take it around with her.

But what do you think of the computer spec-wise? Good buy?
 
Corky, what do you mean by "ganga deal"

Will this system handle vista?

Any specific parts that should be upgraded?

Thanks.
 
Originally posted by: RJHNY1
Will this system handle vista?

Any specific parts that should be upgraded?

Thanks.
Click to expand...

Yes, it's good to go for Vista.

For basic needs (which hers appear to be), it's fine as you have it listed.
 
n7, someone was telling me he didn't think this current system would be able to handle "everything" vista has to offer.

Is that person right? I just don't want my sister to get mad at me if she finds out in a year that it can't handle everything Vista has to offer.

Thanks.
 
To be quite effing honest, i am sick of the whole "is my PC gonna work for Vista" thing.

This is nothing meant against your question.
Your question is perfectly fine.

The reason why i get so annoyed is that any PC that has 512 MB RAM & a semi decent CPU with a DVD-ROM will be capable.

I ran the Longhorn Alphas two years ago IIRC it was, & i ran them on an Athlon XP 1700+ with 384 MB of SD RAM.

Now it ran like crap, but that's also because it was in it's infancy.

Now that being said, i'd suggest 1 GB of RAM & a 64-bit CPU for a realistic "Vista ready" system.

GPU is actually completely unimportant, as not having a decent graphics solution simply means the fancy translucent windows (which are annoying as eff btw) & the whooshing minimize & maximize effects are not enabled.

Big deal.

I presently have the Beta 2 on my notebook with Intel GMA 900 craptics, & it's runs great, & without the silly overkill eyecandy effects.

BTW, the Dell you have configured would run Vista in it's full bloated glory based on current betas.
 
Originally posted by: RJHNY1
Corky, what do you mean by "ganga deal" Will this system handle vista? Any specific parts that should be upgraded?Thanks.
Click to expand...

1. Ganga is Spanish for a bargain.
2. Should handle Vista with no problem.
3. If it can take another GB of RAM - a plus. Also, the 120 GB drive can now be a 160 GB, 5400, Seagate, Perpendicular recording.
 
So, you say 2 GB of RAM rather than 1 GB?

"Also, the 120 GB drive can now be a 160 GB, 5400, Seagate, Perpendicular recording."

You mean bump 120 to 160?

What about the processor? Good and fast?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top