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quote:

Originally posted by geroin toshiba

this is also a good brand and the cheapest out of sony and leonovo

All of these are fairly expensive, but you can get pretty good deals if you watch for sales and buy older models when they release new ones.

I only paid just over $1200 for my Sony. I could have gotten an HP or Acer cheaper, but they're definitely not as reliable.

When Cale gets home I'll tell him to check out this thread - he helped me pick out my laptop and showed me some stats as to which computers are the most reliable.

Also, I recommend not getting a Dell. Not only do they suck, but their customer service is the absolute WORST.

quote:

Originally posted by Invasionmix The LG representative came in and gave us a seminar about it cause IBM doesnt build their own laptops, IBM is solely R&D so they have Lenovo making it for them now, and LG back then. He also said that Asus builds Apple notebooks now. LG's battery life is also good too, no explosions yet hehe and the 3 year warranty is like a $200 value

"IBM doesnt build their own laptops" because they don't build laptops anymore. Lenovo (owned mostly by the Government of China) completed the acquisition of IBM's PC division in 2005, so IBM hasn't made them since, but IBM does work closely with Lenovo for marketing the product and some R&D. Lenovo isn't making them for IBM, they are making them for themselves.

Making blanket statements like that across big names like HP and so forth without facts is just plain bullshit salesmanship, and a lot of BSing from your rep, if that is really what he said.

personally.....im rockin an HP
dv8000
17" widescreen
2gig ram
Turion 64
100gig harddrive

bought it in june? and i've had absolutely zero problems with it...and i only paid 1300....not bad i think

quote:

Originally posted by Abercrombie "IBM doesnt build their own laptops" because they don't build laptops anymore. Lenovo (owned mostly by the Government of China) completed the acquisition of IBM's PC division in 2005, so IBM hasn't made them since, but IBM does work closely with Lenovo for marketing the product and some R&D. Lenovo isn't making them for IBM, they are making them for themselves. Making blanket statements like that across big names like HP and so forth without facts is just plain bullshit salesmanship, and a lot of BSing from your rep, if that is really what he said.

Interesting I never knew that, but he actually did say that. Well now I know thanks.

You want to run Maya on a laptop? Ouch.

Be prepared to spend a shitload for a machine that has a beefy graphics subsystem. Unless, of course, you like waiting weeks for a scene to render in Maya.

That said, buy a Sager. They're the same as Alienware laptops (all made by Clevo, but the Sagers are way cheaper than the equivalent Alienware). Solid machines, good service, one of the few who offer laptops with powerful (for a laptop) graphics chips. Also, don't get hung up on processor clock speed (GHz). A 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T7200 will destroy a 3.8GHz Pentium 4 in everything.

The NP5760 series, you can get nVidia Quadro FX chips in them. That's what you'd want.

http://www.sagernotebook.com/pages/...&ramid=80001209

Remember though, US $. But you'll appreciate the amazing 1920x1200 display.


FYI, Foxconn makes the Macbooks, and Asus makes Macbook Pros.


PS: Did somebody actually recommend a Dell or HP over IBM/Lenovo/Sony/et al? Because that's seriously the stupidest thing I've ever read.

I'm sure for many applications of Maya he won't need a Quad-SLI system. Chances are he won't need it if he doesn't realize he needs it.

Isn't the point of a laptop to be portable?

Anything over 5lbs I won't touch.

I used to have a Dell Inspiron 7500 (back in the day) and it was 12 lbs!

$6000 when it came out and was a beast of a machine - but seriously - carrying around bricks would have been more fun.

what i what is a pimped out new desktop. man oh man!

quote:

What Are the Most Reliable PC Products? by Reid Goldsborough October 1, 2004 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Your computer is working now. Will it work tomorrow? What about the next PC you buy? Will it be a reliable workhorse or a lemon? One of the most pressing issues regarding computers is reliability. Nearly a quarter century after the introduction of the first IBM PC and the outset of the personal computer revolution, PCs have largely become commodities, with little differentiating one brand from another in terms of capability and performance. Most of today's software is similarly mature, having gone through many upgrades, with less opportunity for the introduction of groundbreaking capabilities. These days, what most differentiates one computer product from another is reliability�the hassle factor. The PC industry may be maturing, but computer products are still prone to glitches, bugs, security vulnerabilities, incompatibilities, premature failure, and other problems. The reliability factor (the chance that any given product will be a major headache) becomes paramount. Computer and consumer magazines regularly survey computer users to determine the most reliable PC manufacturers. Along with recommendations from trusted colleagues, friends, and family members, using the results of these surveys is an excellent way to increase the chances of your having a low-hassle computing experience (with computers, there's no such thing as hassle-free). According to its latest survey of subscribers about who makes the most reliable personal computers and backs them the best, PC World magazine gave Dell, eMachines, Gateway, IBM, and Sony its top score, along with the generic "white boxes" made by local independent computer stores. (It didn't receive enough responses to include Apple computers in its ratings.) Companies making the most reliable notebook computers and supporting them the best, according to PC World readers, were Dell, Gateway, IBM, and Toshiba. The most reliable printers were from Samsung (followed by Brother, Canon, Epson, and Hewlett-Packard), while the most reliable digital cameras came from Sony (followed by Canon, Fujifilm, Hewlett-Packard, Kodak, Minolta, Nikon, and Olympus). The most reliable personal digital assistants were from Handspring, Palm, and Sony, according to the PC World survey. Interestingly, PC World�s survey also showed that of the devices measured, digital cameras in general were most reliable, followed in order by printers, personal digital assistants, notebook PCs, and desktop PCs. In a survey from PC Magazine, Apple received the best overall scores for reliability and service in the desktop category, followed by self-built machines, Dell, ABS, and machines from local computer stores. Companies earning the best reliability ratings for notebook PCs from PC Magazine subscribers were Apple and IBM, followed by Dell, Fujitsu, and Toshiba. Self-built machines received the highest rating in the server category from PC Magazine, with Dell and clones following suit. According to the most recent survey of Consumer Reports magazine readers, Apple ranked best for reliability for desktop computers, followed in order by Dell, IBM, and Hewlett-Packard. Apple also received the highest rating for laptop reliability, with Toshiba, Sony, and IBM following suit. Apple also ranked at the top for technical support with both desktop and laptop users, according to Consumer Reports readers. Following (in order) were Gateway and Dell with desktop support and IBM and Gateway for laptop users. Another recent survey, this one sponsored by the University of Michigan and part of the quarterly American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), also indicated that Apple computer users were more satisfied than those using other computer brands, with Dell a close second. According to the latest ACSI, both Apple and Gateway have improved significantly in customer satisfaction from the previous year. "Apple has had a history of very poor scores in the index, but has been steadily improving," says Sarah Allen, a spokesperson for the ACSI. She attributes Apple's improvement to service and product innovation in its PC line. Interestingly, the overall satisfaction level among all computer consumers is at a 4-year high, according to the index, which can be attributed to lower prices, upgrades in power and capabilities, and a more experienced and savvier base of computer users. Another trend that's clear is that despite its tiny market share compared with Windows PCs, the Apple Macintosh warrants consideration if you value reliability. As always, however, the Mac comes with trade-offs. Though it's easier than ever for Mac users to share files with Windows users, it's not always smooth sailing. Also, Mac users have always had fewer choices in software, although the Mac covers all the major bases. Finally, the Mac comes with a price premium. On the other hand, as with many things, you get what you pay for.

SOURCE

quote:

Computing Q&A Picking a reliable computer David Einstein Monday, April 3, 2006 Printable Version Email This Article del.icio.us Digg Technorati Reddit Slashdot Fark Newsvine Google Bookmarks Georgia (default) Verdana Times New Roman Arial More Business A studied eye on the human brain Cell phones ready to rule the wireless world Intel's new Viiv multimedia PCs Picking a reliable computer People in business David Einstein Recent Columns Back up your cell contacts 03/26/2007 Blocking blind carbon copy spam 03/19/2007 Burning old music to CDs 03/05/2007 Bookmark help from Firefox 02/26/2007 David Einstein Archive January February March April May June July August September October November December 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 Q: I'm looking for a new PC, and I'd like to find one that that has a good warranty and a reputation for reliability. Which brands should I consider? A: If you stick to major brands, the warranty is a non-issue, because all big PC-makers offer a one-year warranty on most consumer models. A salesperson at a computer store probably will try to sell you an extended warranty, but I wouldn't go for it. If anything fails after the regular warranty ends, you probably can replace the broken part for less than the price of the extended warranty. As for reliability, there are almost no clear winners. In PC World's most recent rankings, every major brand of Windows desktop computers rated just average, and the only notebook brand to rate above average was Lenovo (formerly IBM). Consumer Reports, in its 2006 Buying Guide, said that Sony and Dell desktops need fewer repairs than other brands, while Toshiba has the most reliable notebooks. Both PC World and Consumer Reports rated Compaq notebooks the lowest. Q: I just installed the McAfee Internet Security suite on my computer. It includes a firewall, but I already was using the firewall that came with Windows XP. My question is, should I disable one of them? And if so, which one? A: There's no benefit to running two firewalls; in fact, it could slow your system. The Windows and McAfee firewalls both do a good job of keeping hackers out of your system. However, the Windows program doesn't monitor outgoing traffic, so it can't prevent a virus or malware (malicious software) from transmitting information from your computer to the Internet. McAfee (and most other firewalls) has that capability. So I'd use only the McAfee firewall. Q: What's the likelihood that financial information sent by e-mail -- in an attachment, for instance -- can be stolen by criminals interested in identity theft? A: Possible, yes. Likely, no. A good hacker might be able to gain access to the e-mail and other data on your computer via your online connection or home network, or by getting into your Internet provider's e-mail server. The risks of either happening are slim, so I wouldn't worry about it. That said, there are ways to encrypt e-mail, scrambling its contents (including attachments) to keep it safe from unauthorized reading, even after it is received. You can do that using "public key encryption," which includes a pair of password keys -- a public key that you share with others and a private one you keep to yourself. A person uses your public key to encrypt mail to send to you, and you use your private key to decrypt it. If you want to encrypt mail that you send, you'll need the recipient's public key. Now that's a pain in the rear, especially because both you and your recipient must use the same encryption software. Microsoft has tried marketing an encryption scheme called Digital ID that features software from VeriSign (verisign.com), but it's complicated and has been less than successful. If you want to take the trouble to encrypt e-mail, try the free version of SecEx Mail from bytefusion.com. Q: I keep seeing ads for Comcast cable Internet and AT&T DSL Internet. This may sound naive, but what is the difference? A: Cable Internet comes into your home on the cable that also brings you TV. DSL, which stands for digital subscriber line, comes in through your phone line. Both are "always on," meaning you don't have to connect to the Internet each time you use it. Cable offers faster download speeds, while DSL generally is less expensive. I usually recommend DSL unless you want to download a lot of music and video. Tip of the week First, a tip of the hat, to Howard High, longtime public affairs guru at Intel, who retired last Friday after 27 years with the giant chipmaker. When it came to PR in Silicon Valley, Howard was the benchmark for excellence. He was plugged in to the highest levels of the company, made life easy on reporters and helped keep the public informed. When you give out your e-mail address on the Web -- at a shopping site or for an online account -- you may end up on a mailing list, and that means junk mail. So do yourself a favor and maintain one e-mail address for that kind of stuff and another address for personal correspondence, which will attract less spam. Got a question about computing? E-mail David Einstein at [email protected].

SOURCE

I'm actually surprised as to how high Dell is on the list. I've had nothing but problems from them - as well as every other person I know that has dealt with Dell.

quote:

Originally posted by psychosomatica I'm sure for many applications of Maya he won't need a Quad-SLI system. Chances are he won't need it if he doesn't realize he needs it.

True enough, but an Intel GMA950 or a GeForce 6150LE isn't going to cut it. Even a GeForce Go 7600 is still pretty weaksauce.

quote:

Originally posted by rabbitjoker Isn't the point of a laptop to be portable? Anything over 5lbs I won't touch.

Fully agreed, but she wants what seems like a desktop replacement. Give me a Panasonic Toughbook Y5 any day of the week. It even has HSDPA and EVDO.

quote:

Originally posted by *~LiSa-LoO~* SOURCE SOURCE I'm actually surprised as to how high Dell is on the list. I've had nothing but problems from them - as well as every other person I know that has dealt with Dell.

That's because Latitudes are included. Latitudes are like the Thinkpads of the Dell world - they're actually built well. They are business laptops though, certainly not entertainment-centric. Inspirons, on the other hand, are pure trash. The people that have had good experiences are probably those who paid $300 for the ULTRA SUPER DUPER MEGA PLATINUM BLING warranty.

quote:

Originally posted by rabbitjoker Isn't the point of a laptop to be portable? Anything over 5lbs I won't touch. I used to have a Dell Inspiron 7500 (back in the day) and it was 12 lbs! $6000 when it came out and was a beast of a machine - but seriously - carrying around bricks would have been more fun.

What's wrong with my portable?

quote:

Originally posted by Abercrombie What's wrong with my portable? [img] http://www.maj.com/gallery/yruugly/Photos/dsc00268.jpg[/img]

It was lame until i noticed thats you (i think), then its badass

quote:

Originally posted by *~LiSa-LoO~* & Sony.

Sony has service centres overseas so if something happens and you need it repaired, it needs to be shipped overseas, lots of wasted time.

Toshiba/HP have repair centres in Mississauga I believe.


I'm pretty sure Lenova has a repair centre somewhere in the GTA. Or Dell (for laptops, not workstations...)

Avertech is a definite no because their service centre is overseas as well.


edit: for those who called dell a bad recommendation, what the hell do i know, i only work at a computer animation company doing IT support lol

quote:

Originally posted by spfdz I'm pretty sure Lenovo has a repair centre somewhere in the GTA.

They do and the don't question repairs.

My hard-drive failed (who knows why) and they send me a replacement for free (not even paying for shipping) within 12 hours of the failure.

quote:

Originally posted by spfdz edit: for those who called dell a bad recommendation, what the hell do i know, i only work at a computer animation company doing IT support lol

Well if you work for Dell, then I suggest you tell them to do a better job at their support.

I have a list of problems as long as my arm with fuck ups that Dell has made.

quote:

Originally posted by *~LiSa-LoO~* I have a list of problems as long as my arm with fuck ups that Dell has made.

I have had 2 Dell laptops and haven't had a single problem with either of them.

Dell laptops are great value for the dollar. They may not stand up to the abuse that a ThinkPad may - but you can't get more for the price. Not to mention - if you take out their extended warranty they are pretty good at replacing and/or repairing the unit (caveat emptor on this - read the warranty you are getting carefully. Dell offers various levels of warranty and support - don't complain if you took the basic and only get basic support).

For a student or someone who is looking to buy a value line of laptop (or desktop for that matter) - Dell is a great option.

quote:

Originally posted by *~LiSa-LoO~* Well if you work for Dell, then I suggest you tell them to do a better job at their support. I have a list of problems as long as my arm with fuck ups that Dell has made.

lol i don't work for dell

quote:

Originally posted by rabbitjoker They do and the don't question repairs. My hard-drive failed (who knows why) and they send me a replacement for free (not even paying for shipping) within 12 hours of the failure.

HD's not manufactured by them so they're warranted through the actual hard drive maker. I'm mainly talking about LCD/motherboard issues. Hard drive/ram can be easily replaced by consumers

quote:

Originally posted by spfdz HD's not manufactured by them so they're warranted through the actual hard drive maker. I'm mainly talking about LCD/motherboard issues. Hard drive/ram can be easily replaced by consumers

Even so - ThinkPads are a great option.

I had an old T-series where the LCD burnt out and I had to replace it (not under warranty).

I was able to buy the LCD over eBay for $50 and then via IBM's online installation guide totally replace the unit. It was a bit of a task - but only took about 1 hour.

If you're planning on keeping your laptop well beyond warranty period - I suggest getting one where you can find cheap used parts. ThinkPads are the world's most popular so in that respect you're getting a good deal by going with an IBM/Lenovo.

quote:

Originally posted by rabbitjoker

Perhaps I should specify one of the problems that I encountered.

My dad had purchased a monitor and 2 sets of speakers from Dell. They delivered (2 weeks later than was originally quoted 4-6 weeks), 2 sets of speakers (1 being the wrong kind) and no monitor. After having an extremely hard time getting a hold of anyone that knew what they were doing. They first instructed us to send back the wrong speakers and they'd send us a monitor. They were going to make US pay for shipping for something they screwed up. Finally they sent us the monitor, the other speakers and a pre-paid thing to send the speakers back in - but it was one hell of a fiasco.

On top of that, we had some sort of rebate - which they failed to credit us for. Again we had a problem of getting a hold of anyone that could figure out what was going on, and it took months to finally get the money back.

I know my brother had a problem as well. He had to send back his DVD drive. They told him they would send him a box to return his DVD drive in...yet they sent it to my house in Windsor, where he hasn't lived for nearly a 10 years, rather than his house in Toronto. Luckily I was going up to Toronto that weekend and could give it to him, b/c they instructed him to send it back within 5 days otherwise they wouldn't exchange it. If I wasn't going up to Toronto, unless we paid the money to courier the box he wouldn't have gotten it in time.

I can understand that people who pay for better service will get better service. But the problems we had with Dell (even in addition to the ones I had mentioned), as just common sense issues that shouldn't have happened.

Furthermore, while I agree that Dell is a good deal for your buck, I am more concerned with long-term reliability and personally am willing to pay the extra bucks for it. Unfortunately Cale can't find the chart he had before that shows what the top laptop brands are regarding reliability and repairs.

quote:

Originally posted by Import It was lame until i noticed thats you (i think), then its badass

Yes, it's me and my original rare mint 1983 Compaq Portable :P

quote:

Originally posted by spfdz Toshiba/HP have repair centres in Mississauga I believe.

HP has more than three dozen authorized HP service centres in the GTA (hundreds accross Canada). These are places you can take it to, and will do the necessary repairs at that location (they won't mail it away). You can find them here. If the part is an user-replaceable part like rabbitjoker has described, HP will courrier it right to you. There is also no-fault warranty available on many of HPs models (mostly business models) that will replace the notebook even if you drop it.

Toshiba also has at least a dozen locations too if I recall.

quote:

Originally posted by *~LiSa-LoO~*

Your problems really don't seem all that ridiculous to me... Problem 1 seems to be just a retarded technicality most places have. Problem 2.. most places take a long time to send rebates.. and Problem 3... the equipment was likely ordered under an account that had your Windsor address as a default address. I'm not trying to trivialize your issues, but for all the hell you raise about Dell.. I figure they'd screwed you out of a computer or something..

quote:

Originally posted by VERTiG0 Give me a Panasonic Toughbook Y5 any day of the week.

i was just gonna mention this. seems to be one hell of a lappy.

quote:

Originally posted by cono_sur

that would be perfect, since she's into barbies and dolls in general.

quote:

Originally posted by psychosomatica Your problems really don't seem all that ridiculous to me... Problem 1 seems to be just a retarded technicality most places have. Problem 2.. most places take a long time to send rebates.. and Problem 3... the equipment was likely ordered under an account that had your Windsor address as a default address. I'm not trying to trivialize your issues, but for all the hell you raise about Dell.. I figure they'd screwed you out of a computer or something..

I'm not saying that I have the worst problems in the world with Dell, but their customer service is not that great, and they seem to screw up a lot even with little things. Why would I deal with them when I can deal with a company that gets things right and has good customer service. For me, customer service is an important part of a business.

I've never had problems with their computers personally, b/c I don't have a Dell, nor do I want one. But I have read about and heard of countless problems other people have had. My brother being one of them. He literally threw his Dell in the garbage.

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