Laptop & Projector - recommendations?

[CobyPhoto]

I am looking at getting a new Laptop and a Projector. (I am PC based guys, and have too many other machines that are so I can't consider a swap.) I would like to hear some ideas on Laptops (brand, cpu, LCD display etc.) that you have.

Also, I am looking at picking up a projector to expand my marketing and use at bridal shows and in presentations of images. Suggestions?

I am looking for Pro's/Con's, experiences from current users, etc. My budget for this is about 5K.

Thanks in advance.

CJ

[Bartman01]

Originally Posted by CobyPhoto

I am PC based guys, and have too many other machines that are so I can't consider a swap.

My next 'PC' will probably be an Intel Mac. You CAN run windows on it if you need to.

Otherwise, I have been happy with the DELL laptops that my company issues. Currently using a Latitude D620. Widescreen, but small and light for travel.

[CobyPhoto]

Dell is the Brand I am considering. Dell Precision M65 w/Intel Core2 Duo T7200, 2.00GHz 667 Mhz 4MB Cache, Dual Core Processor; 2 GB DDR2 Memory and 100 GB 7200 RPM SATA Hard Drive. I have a quote on this, but was wanting to get some feed back on other options before I commit.

CJ

[CobyPhoto]

Anyone ever dealt with this company: Sager Notebook???

They have a notebook that is really tempting:

17" WUXGA; Intel P4 630 3.0GHz Processor; Nvidia 16X Graphics 512 DDR3; 2 GB DDR2 Memory; 80 GB SATA 7200 RPM SATA HD + 100 GB SATA 7200 RPM HD for Scratch and storage; XP Pro OS.

It is about the same as a Dell with a 15.4" and the Core2 Duo and no 2nd. Hard drive.

CJ

[johnastovall]

We use a lot of Infocus projectors for instruction and have no problems with them. If you are going to be carrying it around a lot, look at the LP120, lovely small machine and wireless. I use one for my dog and pony shows.

One warning on projector, any projector, check the cost of replacement bulbs. They can run several hundred dollars.

[kenw]

as a huge fan of projectors, I think that a lot of the places mentioned as potential uses (bridal shows, etc) will be better served by a decent LCD panel. Unless you can control ambient light, even the best projector can get washed out by strong room lights.

Heck even a piddly 32" plasma flat panel will blow their socks off......

for PCs, i highly recommend "commercial" grade notebooks like my Compaq/HP nw8240 or its successor. Much more durable.

[Daniel Bates]

I don't know projectors, but I am really enjoying my Dell Inspiron laptop right now. In spite of what many say, Dell does build pretty good computers. (Although, the Macbooks are looking very attractive too...)

[CobyPhoto]

After looking and doing alot of research, I am thinking that Dell is the best and safest way. I looked on Resellerratings.com and Sager has some horror stories on customer service issues and faulty product. I don't need to be dealing with that.

[cdesign]

check out the JVC DLA-HX2U. It's a 3-CHIP D-ILA projector with great specs. Handles SD and HD. They are $9K new but several just recently sold on eBay for under $5K. This is a pro-quality projector with an absolutely amazing picture. John

[cmalana]

I'll second that recommendation for InFocus projectors. We also have a small one that weighs probably 3 lbs that's great for presentations and client mtgs.

Those attending the seminar can check it out up close!

[Chris Anderson]

Originally Posted by CobyPhoto

Anyone ever dealt with this company: Sager Notebook???

They have a notebook that is really tempting:

17" WUXGA; Intel P4 630 3.0GHz Processor; Nvidia 16X Graphics 512 DDR3; 2 GB DDR2 Memory; 80 GB SATA 7200 RPM SATA HD + 100 GB SATA 7200 RPM HD for Scratch and storage; XP Pro OS.

It is about the same as a Dell with a 15.4" and the Core2 Duo and no 2nd. Hard drive.

CJ

YES I have had 3 Sager notebooks ,and they have worked fine! Two of them I am still using and have had for over 3 years. The third well, It fell off a self and on my head and lets just say my temper got the best off me!
C

[cdesign]

As for laptops, unless your married to the Micro$oft's OS, you simply can't beat Apple's new MacBook Pro lineup. They are very fast with native Intel apps, come with iLife, and can of course run Windows if necessary. The only hitch right now is that, for the time being, Adobe's apps (photoshop, illustrator, etc) run in an emulation mode which makes them a bit sluggish. Full Intel native versions of Adobe's apps (what Apple calls 'Universal' versions) won't arrive until sometime next Spring (except for Acrobat, which went universal last week). John