[SLUG] linux laptop shopping

[Simon Males <sime@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Within the next four weeks, I wish to be the proud owner of a laptop.

Currently my target price is currently $2500. I do not want centrino 
wireless tech because I plan to do some war driving and already have 
PCMCIA card with the appropriate pigtails etc, further there is limited 
linux support (centrino models seem to have lower spec CPU compared to 
non-centrino models).

First intentions were Dell because I liked the idea of building my 
machine. Reading various linux laptop threads brought light that dell 
change system internals but keep the same product name- something I 
don't like the sound of for the sake of parts and repairing.

The same thread advises that a lot of OpenBSD hackers cannot go without 
there Toshiba Satellites. Further users saying that there IBM thinkpad 
has been there best buy. I like IBM as it seems there is a possibility 
of customising the laptop you order (online).

Other things I feel I must have included: Firewire, which it seems that 
many toshiba models lack. Audio must work, so should I pay attention to 
the chipset. Possibly 64MB video (Nvidia I've had experience with 
although I believe ATI has the portable market). Do not want anything 
bigger than 15".

If someone could rant on warranty and who has received there MS tax 
refund :)

--
Simon Males <sime@xxxxxxxxxx>
No More AOL CDs Australia - www.anticd.org