Re: Which New Notebook To Purchase - Help
- From: SMS <scharf.steven@xxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Wed, 29 Mar 2006 20:31:37 -0800
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).
Don't just look at the CPU MHz, look at the CPU type as well.
Does she care about running on battery power?
Does she want a separate monitor and keyboard when in the office, versus on the road? 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).
Does she want to use the computer as a P.O.S. terminal as well? If so, get something with serial and parallel ports (not a lot of notebooks still have these).
I'd recommend XP Pro, not XP home. Get Bluetooth built in if she wants to use an external keyboard and mouse (I'm a big believer in not having to have a plethora of dongles plugged into the notebook). Be sure that the CPU is a Pentium M, not a higher power chip.
Look for something that comes with a 3 year warranty as standard. Forget NAV, use AVG from Grisoft, which is not only free, but doesn't slow down the system as much.
If getting something from Dell, look at the Small Business models, not the home models.
Not sure where you are, but in some areas there are resellers of Dell machines that get new Dell notebooks from corporations that bought more than they needed, and resell them, with the full warranty, at good prices, see "http://www.sfbaycpu.com/laptops.htm";
I have a notebook with a 15.4" wide screen, and I probably would not get such a screen again. It's good fore watching movies, but it makes the notebook too large.
.
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