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Laptop recommendations	Reply
by KF6HHH on September 14, 2008	Mail this to a friend!
I had a used Toshiba laptop that I was using for digital comm, Echolink, etc. Not really using it much as I was just getting into digital (too lazy to take the time to learn it all yet). The laptop fried so I figure I'm going to get a new one this time as the old one had no memory, RAM, etc. I was wondering if there are any recommendations for an inexpensive laptop for use with a Yaesu FT897 and a Tigertronics SignaLink USB? I'm looking at an Acer or a Compaq as those are around $550, but thought I'd ask the more exerienced folks out there before I spend too much or too little. I'm mainly trying to be prepared for ARES type of incidents but as I get more involved I may expand, so any advice or info is appreciated. Thanks all for the info. 73 Dan'o :} KF6HHH

RE: Laptop recommendations	Reply
by AA4PB on September 14, 2008	Mail this to a friend!
I expect everyone has their own personal preferences. I've purchased on-line and set up probably two dozen Dell computers including Inspiron laptops and not had any problems.

RE: Laptop recommendations	Reply
by NA4IT on September 15, 2008	Mail this to a friend!
At least 1.8GHz, at least 1GB memory, Windows XP with all service packs, and at least 1 serial port. Unless you really like working on a computer, avoid Vista like the plague. de NA4IT

RE: Laptop recommendations	Reply
by KE4DRN on September 15, 2008	Mail this to a friend!
hi dan, IBM has thinkpads off lease, with xp professional and serial and usb ports. built like a tank. https://www-304.ibm.com/shop/americas/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/default/CategoryDisplay?categoryId=2576396&storeId=1&catalogId=-840&langId=-1 73 james

RE: Laptop recommendations	Reply
by N0ZLD on September 18, 2008	Mail this to a friend!
I have one of these for surfing, emailing, etc. I have used it with digital modes and logging and it's perfect. I'm sure more hams will catch on with using lower power, lightweight notebooks. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834220370&Tpk=1000h

RE: Laptop recommendations	Reply
by K3AN on September 18, 2008	Mail this to a friend!
A used Thinkpad would be my first choice also. They're robust, they're RF-quiet, and they don't misbehave when directly connected to a rig (keying/PTT and rig control) that's putting out 100 Watts. I've never owned a linear, so I can't say what would happen at higher power levels. I am on my fourth one now, and each time I upgraded only due to obsolescence (insufficient memory, processor too slow, no USB) of the older unit. Except for batteries eventually going bad, they never developed problems of any kind. Therefore I was able to get a majority of my purchase price back when I sold them.

RE: Laptop recommendations	Reply
by KF6HHH on September 18, 2008	Mail this to a friend!
Is there a difference between XP and XP Pro? At least as far as I have to worry about with Ham and digital comm?

RE: Laptop recommendations	Reply
by KE4DRN on September 18, 2008	Mail this to a friend!
Hi, another plus for the Thinkpad, you can download the service manual from lenovo site and parts are always easy to get. take a look here, good writeup on differences http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/windowsxp_home_pro.asp 73 james

RE: Laptop recommendations	Reply
by N0ZLD on September 23, 2008	Mail this to a friend!
There is no difference on XP Home and XP Pro that would affect your ability to use it for Amateur Radio.

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