sign that it is time to get a new computer

[magicicada]

i got a 'free' mini-dvd with my new yoga mat. i wasn't expecting much, but for kicks i put it in my computer - only to realize that i have no dvd drive. yes, it's petty, but it's the little things.

i will be shopping for a laptop in the sub $500 range around christmas time and would be interested in recommendations/disrecommendations from the peanut gallery.

things i need:

- excellent wireless abilities
- modest memory & storage requirements
- exceptional reliability &
- no fuss service contract
- dock, replicator, whatchamacallit
- cd, dvd, etc
- lots and lots of usb ports
- domestic customer support (bonus for happy & well-treated)

things i don't need

- l33t gamer machine

things i would like
- lightweight
-... a red case would be nice :)

Comments

[pandashrugged.livejournal.com]

Hi! I just found you by searching for "Montessori" interests. I decided we ought to get along when I saw we share "heinlein". I mean, really, how bad could either of us be if we are Heinlein fans?

Anyway, I am extremely partial to Dell computers. Their service is incredibly good. Easy to get through to them, competent, good to deal with - and they will come to your house and fix/replace things. Compare this to the nightmare of dealing with HP/Compaq, and it's an obvious win. Plus you pick everything that goes into it, from processor to an embedded quickcam if you want it. The only downside is - you'll have to wait around a month for them to build it for you. Good luck!

[gardenwaltz.livejournal.com]

howdy. my current computer, which is probably > 6 years old is a dell, so that is a likely choice. i love the way that you can customize them up & down.

...they also have a red laptop :).