I'm imPresarioed!(Impressed)
Written: Feb 18 '02
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Pros: Heavyweight computing in a light weight box
Cons: Mine was a floor model and so has two infinitesimal scratches on the cover.
The Bottom Line: When you look at my tech support rating, it was given simply to fill a required box. There has been no need for service. Buy the computer!
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| jadah's Full Review: Compaq Presario 705US (470023-551) PC Notebook |
I have just purchased my first notebook computer. I have always been impressed by Compaq and found a steal of a deal. (Shopping Tip #1: if you can get a show model from Best Buy that has a tiny scratch buy it! The price reduction for this is incredible.)
As I mentioned, this is my first notebook computer so some of my comments may be pretty elementary to those of you who are more versed in high-tech computing. I am truly impressed by the light weight of the computer. It packs a 20gig hardrive, modem, DVD/CDR-W into approximately a two pound convenient little package. Having the CDR-W was important to me in my business. I am a lawyer in a rural area. Most of the small communities around me are not served by any lawyers in their towns. This lovely little notebook will allow me to travel and take complete records on the road. I love this ability.
If you are looking into your first notebook, like me, here is a clue to operating the flat screen mouse.Moving the cursor involves brushing your finger across the mouse pad. Clicking involves tapping the mouse pad. I discovered this by accident(remember I bought on the cheap and did not get any documentation with the computer.) I was trying to figure out how to operate the mouse and tapped the pad in frustration. Eureka! Also the silver frame around the mouse pad consists of your right and left mouse buttons. Who knew?! OK probably everybody but me, but I thought this might be helpful information to other notebook rookies out there.
Somethings that impressed me:
1. Price. Since I was willing to accept a slightly "unsightly" box, I purchased my computer for $700.
2. Features. It has everything my desktop computer has plus DVD capacity without being chained to a fixed location.
3. Price of repairs. Ok so this impressed me in a negative manner. The salesman indicated that to replace the monitor which burns out in about 1.5 years under regular use would cost about $1000. Since I only paid $700 for the unit, that seems excessive. Thich brings me to the fourth impressive feature:
4. Service plan.I highly recommend the service plan, particularly from Best Buy. For just over $200 I have a three year service and replacement parts plan. That $1000 monitor replacement-covered. DVD-CDR-W burned out? Covered. Plus, Best Buy offers a "lemon" protection. If they replace parts or repair the machine three times not counting scheduled cleanings and maintenance, you get(actually I get) a new notebook computer.
For some things I thought I could not live without since I broke down and bought the Presario:
1. Printer. Mine is a Canon BJC-85 portable printer. It makes about 170 pages per toner cartridge, and cartridges can be obtained in three packs for about $17(black ink).
2. Carry case. Mine is nylon for $59. It has space for the notebook, all the power cables, batteries and stuff you really need in the main compartment. There are several net pouches with velcro fasteners to carry other treasures. A separate pocket acts as a briefcase with pouches for pens, miscellaneous office related items, and a keyring. The back side of the case opens into an expandable case for carrying paper files. This is going to be an important piece of equipment for my portable office.
3. Jump Start kit. Yes, like the kind you use for your autombile. This is a great tool. You can not only run your portable office from it in case of power outages, but can also be covered in case of a dead car battery when you are on the road. I think it is important for each item in the mobile office to serve as many functions as possible.
I am impressed with the new computer. It is not a toy! I have to remind myself whenever I want to sneak out to the van and plug into the cigarette lighter and play with my new notebook, that this is not a toy! O Well a kid must play sometime.
I highly recommend this notebook. I further recommend that the purchase be made from Best Buy. I have had the best success shopping there for all my electronics.
Happy computing!
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 700
Operating System: Windows
Processor: AMD Athlon (K7)
Processor speed: Don't Know
Screen Size: 13
Internal Storage: CD-RW and DVD
Hard Drive (GB): 13-20
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Epinions.com ID:
jadah
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Location: Parker, Kansas
Reviews written: 32
Trusted by: 28 members
About Me:
Christian, Jayhawk, lawyer. If you trust any of these people, read my opinions.
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