Re: Validating Laptops?


Chris wrote:
RMK wrote:


So, it occurred to me to try an in-store test using a Live-CD, such as
Knoppix. I haven't done it yet, but Best Buy and Frys said "Sure,
bring it on." Circuit City said no since it is illegal to put anything
but
Windows on a PC. (Actually, I think he was trying to say that even if
you run another OS, you have to leave Windows on to remain legal.)

Needless to say, I suggested that he take up cabbage farming since it
is doubtful that he will ever make a successful career in the IT
industry.

I think it may be better to speak to his manager as he's giving wrong
information and potentially losing customers.

So... Anybody think that this would be (at least) an indicator of
whether a LT is Linux friendly or not?

That is good idea. Many people do it if the shop allows. However, you
may not be able to check everything (such as wireless) as often it

I haven't figured out how to boot off a live cd/dvd and test mplayer
off a dvd
in the same drive. And it's pretty important to me to see if I can get
a smooth
playback. On precision M20 I can't. So screw dell laptops altogether.

takes a bit of fiddling to get some things working.

Personally, I'd stick to Intel Centino based laptops as they are well
supported and are pretty standard.

buy.com still has dv1650us for $1200 minus $50 rebate. If a glare
screen is not
a problem dv1650 should be the same thing as dv1000 tomshardware tested
with linux
and had nary a problem with. dv1650 refurbs are more readily available
than new 1650s
and now can be had for under $900 and are probably a good value if you
shell an extra $100
for a two year hp repair plan? I was about to buy 1650 until I realized
it has that shitty Xbrite option.
Fortunately I'm not a manager or the guy who discontinued dv1000t that
you can
configure without Xbrite. I would've strangled the ***.

Hope this helps.

.

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