wrote:
> I am considering buying a laptop. I already have a desktop, but want a
> laptop for school.
Grade school? Junior high or middle school? High school? College?
Vocational or trade school, perchance?
I merely point this out because where you are with your education will
determine your software needs, and the hardware you'll need to support it.
>I don't need all the bells and whistles, just
> something basic. I don't play games (n)or will i use it to play DVDs, (but)
> perhaps CDs.
Yeah, right-sure you won't!
Anyway, if anyone still makes a laptop that doesn't play DVDs, it's got
to be a sub-$400 Black Friday special. And I'd avoid one that doesn't,
because soon enough, that's how most software that isn't delivered over
the Web will likely be distributed.
>Any brand or model to consider? I want to get the best (I)
> can afford for the stuff (I) need (up to $1000.00 if {I} need to spend that
> much). I already have a printer waiting to hook up to it.
How old a printer? If it's a parallel-port dinosaur, you might want to
set aside some extra cash for a port replicator so you can connect it,
or see how good a deal you can swing on a USB printer. Many retailers
throw in a cheap printer when you buy a new computer nowadays.
Then again, your next question raises the possibility of another solution.
>I did want to know if (I) could hook up a laptop to the net via my desktop computer or
> do (I) have to get (a) wireless hookup?
If you've got a grand to spend, that will easily cover both a
wireless-enabled laptop and access point/router. Assuming you have
broadband, this is all you'll need to get online. If not, you can
either use Internet Connection Sharing on the desktop (if it's running
Windows 98 SE or later) to access your dialup, or try finding an access
point with a built-in modem. You can also do what I did until I finally
broke down and got broadband-just use dialup with the laptop itself.
I'd still go ahead and get the access point, though. It'll make sharing
files with your desktop a lot easier. You can also set up that printer
of yours as shared on your desktop computer, and print wirelessly from
your laptop.
As for which brand of laptop to buy, I'd stick with a known one, if for
no other reason than to ensure adequate support and the availability of
accessories, especially spare and replacement batteries. Rest assured
you'll need one soon enough.
And I'd check with your school as to what they'd recommend you get,
especially if you plan on connecting it to their network, or if you're
in college-in which case you *will* have to connect it to their network
to get the most out of having it. There's an outside chance you'll have
to meet certain operating system or software requirements, such as
running Windows XP Professional so you can join a domain or Active
Directory. Also, if you're in college and living on campus, make sure
they're OK with you hooking your wireless router into their network
before you try it. Some institutions don't allow this.
Good luck, and let us know what you decide on.
Similar Threads
Linear Mode
