Quote:
Originally Posted by Guy Davidson
Anything else I didn't ask and should really know or think about?
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Guy, you've received a lot of good advice already from a lot of knowledgeable folks. However, one aspect that I haven't yet seen discussed is reliability / ruggedness. I think that given that you'll be out of the USA, where getting spare parts and/or service may be a problem, I think durability and reliability are a key issue. Accordingly, if going with a Dell, I would suggest going with their "Latitude" line of business-class laptops instead. They are significantly more durable / rugged than their Inspiron line of laptops, and their components (DVD drives, keyboards, expansion bays) are intentionally kept compatible across additional years in order to allow easier maintenance by businesses. Since so many businesses use these laptops, there is a continual stream of relatively inexpensive spare parts available on eBay. I have used a number of Latitude laptops (D520, D620, D630) at work, home, FLL, and FRC and have had excellent success with their durability and reliability. In contrast, I have had troubles with the lack of durability of Inspiron laptops.
Just my two cents...
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