Computer Help

[pjrocco]

Hey all,

I'm in the market for a new laptop since out current Dell is on it's last leg. Dell is currently running a special on laptops but I'm not sure if it's a good buy. Hopefully someone can give me a hand and let me know if this laptop is worth it.

We will be using it for basic internet browsing, e-mail, photo editing and some small programs.

Here are the specs.

Dell B120
Celeron 1.4GHZ
256 Shared RAM
14.1 inch monitor
Integrated network, sound and modem
Internal WiFi (wireless)

The price is $502.96 shipped to my door.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[Hannibal Lecter]

My Dear Rock,

I have assisted friends in ordering a couple of these recently and they have been well-pleased with their purchase. I think you will be also. :D

--------
Hannibal

[Zwaplat]

256 shared RAM memory ? Is that for the graphics card ? Because honestly, I don't see a point in buying a PC nowadays with less than 512MB RAM. The more, the better. Especially in photo editting.

[rbarnesfxdl]

Good choice on the Dell. I would look at spending the extra $50.00 and upgrading to the 512 Shared memory. It will make your computer run faster especially with pictures and such. Just a thought. :)

[pjrocco]

Good choice on the Dell. I would look at spending the extra $50.00 and upgrading to the 512 Shared memory. It will make your computer run faster especially with pictures and such. Just a thought. :)

Well since it is a part of their "Special" you can not upgrade anything. The price is set. So I would be stuck with 256mb. :rolleyes:

[vampyrewolf]

it is relatively easy to add more RAM in a laptop... could walk you through it.

[greencobra]

Yes, you need more Ram and I'd go for a faster processor too. But for what you get for 500 bucks, good price.

I have the Dell Inspiron 700m w/2mhtz processor and 1g ram, wireless, bluetooth, r/w cd/dvd, etc, but jeez, I paid 1000+

[pjrocco]

Ok, what's the difference between an Intel Celeron 1.6ghz processor and an Intel Solo 1.66ghz processor? Also, is it worth an extra $100?

[brainus]

From what I have heard, the Solos have much improved power consumption (the machine may last longer on a battery charge). Since the "Core *o" processors are much more recent than the Celeron line, it may be quite worth it in terms of battery life and performance.

[pjrocco]

Alright... I did a little messing around and for $796.42 shipped to my door I can get:

Dell E1505
Intel Solo 1.66ghz
1 gig RAM
Single drive CD-RW/DVD-RW/DVD-ROM
15.4" screen
Intergrated Network, modem and sound
WiFi (Wireless)

More than I wanted to spend..but might be worth it. :confused:

[pjrocco]

After doing some more research I found a used one for $600.

Dell 9100
P4 3.0ghz
512mb RAM
15 screen
CD-RW/DVD-ROM
WiFi
Integrated network, modem and sound

It has a couple scratches on the lid, but I was assured it is in perfect working condition.

What do you guys think?

[uhiforgot]

After doing some more research I found a used one for $600.

Dell 9100
P4 3.0ghz
512mb RAM
15 screen
CD-RW/DVD-ROM
WiFi
Integrated network, modem and sound

It has a couple scratches on the lid, but I was assured it is in perfect working condition.

What do you guys think?
Sounds like a powerhouse to me. It will probably make a very nice desktop replacement, but with a 3GHz P4 it's going to drain batteries like crazy. Trust me, I know ;)

On the other hand, I would only buy it used if it was from someone I personally know. Same goes for cars. It is not wise to potentially inheiret somebody elses problems without having them at arm's reach for questions, and ESPECIALLY with laptops as the necessary replacement parts are usually more specialized, potentially harder to find, and ALWAYS more expensive!

I highly reccomend going for the brand new one you mentioned before this. Maybe the processor is not as fast, but having more RAM will help a lot with that. And yes, it's more money up-front, but how much is a used one (potentially) going to cost you with repairs and all?

-Jeff

[Jonny8642]

You might want to try toshiba direct (http://www.toshibadirect.com) I got a thoshiba satalite for Christmas they're low on price, and great on performance. I haven't looked at their website for a while they usually have some good deals on packages.

[severedthumbs]

forget all this Dell talk, this is what you must have. http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wo/0.RSLID?mco=7ADAF62A&nclm=MacBookPro

[The Deacon]

After doing some more research I found a used one for $600.

Dell 9100
P4 3.0ghz
512mb RAM
15 screen
CD-RW/DVD-ROM
WiFi
Integrated network, modem and sound

It has a couple scratches on the lid, but I was assured it is in perfect working condition.

What do you guys think?If they give you any kind of a warranty, grab it.

[pjrocco]

Dell 9100
P4 3.0ghz
512mb RAM
15 screen
CD-RW/DVD-ROM
WiFi
Integrated network, modem and sound

Well I picked up the above computer for $600. Although the computer is out of warranty, she said she would take it back if anything happened within 30 days. She also threw in a wireless mouse, keyboard and a carrying case.

Thanks for all the help, I think this baby will do everything I need and then some. :)

[greencobra]

I'm sure you'll be happy with it.

[ront]

I hope it is a real gem for you Rock!!

Ron

[Chucula]

hey i have a 9100 :D
my version is very powerful for when i bought it 2 years ago and so far i have had no troubles with the hardware and have enjoyed it's reliability and power. it is a thick, heavy beast though isnt it :p

you will enjoy your 9100, have fun

[pjrocco]

This is my first post from my new Dell 9100. Wow, this baby is a monster. 2 inches thick and almost 10 pounds...but it sure has some power.

Thanks for all the advice!