Re: Which New Notebook To Purchase - Help

Sam wrote:
I am helping someone to determine which Notebook computer to purchase, for use in the preparation of starting a new business (wine store). The plan is to use the computer for putting together a business plan and then beginning the initial setup of QuickBooks Premier (Retail Edition for 2006). I don't have any experience with notebooks but do have more than an average understanding of desktops.

Initially this person wanted to spend only $1000.00 for the new notebook but I convinced her to increase the amount to $1500.00. My suggestions were as follows: CPU 1.8GH minimum, HD 60GB, CD/DVD Burner, Windows XP Home, Reinstallation CD for windows, 1GB Ram memory, 15.4 inch Ultra Sharp Wide Screen SXGA with Display with TrueLife, Wireless Networking Card, Video Card of 128MB ATI Mobility Radeon (or something similar), and Hardware and Accidental Warranty of at least one year with At-Home Service. I also recommended that the following software be installed when she receives the computer: NAV 2006, Sunbelt CounterSpy, BoClean, and SpywareBlaster (and maybe ZAPRO).

My initial concern about the notebook is whether it will have enough power to run the various software programs, especially QuickBooks. I am thinking maybe the CPU should be as a minimum of 2.0GH?? I am hoping that the 1GB Ram memory will enable the software to run faster that a snails pace. She will also need to print off of the laptop as well, since at this point she does not have a desktop. Regarding the brand and model, my initial suggestion was Dell since my last three computers have been with Dell and I have been happy with the purchases and support overall. So I may be a bit biased as to what my experience happens to be. However, I can remember some comments about the IBM laptops being of high quality, but suspect they may be rather expensive.

Any suggestions, recommendations, and comments would be very much appreciated as to computer manufacturers, models, hardware specifications, etc. I realize that the notebook is a different animal compared to the desktop and so don't want to mislead this person. Thanks for any help, Sam.



IMO, you have somewhat over specified (read $$) for general office applications. For example, the ATI graphics is unnecessary, 512MB RAM is sufficient. Your vision of notebook computers as "slow" is a few years old.

Q
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Relevant Pages

  • Re: Which New Notebook To Purchase - Help
    ... The plan is to use the computer for putting together a business plan and then beginning the initial setup of QuickBooks Premier. ... I prefer a smaller, lighter machine, and using a monitor, and Bluetooth KB and mouse, when in the office (prolongs the life of the notebook as well). ... If getting something from Dell, look at the Small Business models, not the home models. ...
    (comp.sys.laptops)
  • Re: Poor Bear - Wont Hibernate
    ... How much RAM memory does this notebook have? ... Have you checked with your pc's manufacturer? ... > "Windows System Error - Insufficient System Resources exist to complete the ...
    (microsoft.public.windowsxp.general)
  • RE: Blue screen appear.
    ... Change the RAM memory and see if you have errors after it. ... > My notebook often gets the blue stop screen with the following technical ... > Begining dump of physical memory. ...
    (microsoft.public.windowsxp.general)