A great desktop replacement--for those that can afford it
Written: Aug 27 '02
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Pros: Beautiful UXGA Screen, Roomy hard drive,
Cons: Wireless networking a little difficult to configure
The Bottom Line: All-in-all, a great desktop replacement machine. Just be prepared to heft it around.
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| duke2106's Full Review: Dell Inspiron 8200 (8TWORH) PC Notebook |
I have had my Inspiron 8200 for a couple of weeks, and now that I have an impression of the machine, I feel ready to review it.
First off, I'll give my configuration, so you know what I'm talking about:
P4m-1.6GHz, 128mb ram(upgraded to 384mb through crucial), 40 gig 5400rpm hard drive, 10/100 lan, 56k modem, wireless lan built-in, 8x DVD-ROM drive, 32mb GeForce4 440 Go and running Windows XP Professional.
I have a friend that owns an Inspiron 8100, so I somewhat knew what to expect in looks. I really like this design. One point about the case, however. It seems to like keeping my fingerprints around after I've touched it, but it only seemed to happen on the outside of the case. I didn't notice this anywhere else. I liked the fact that the screen didn't overlap the edges of the rest of the computer, unlike my Inspiron 5000. But I was unprepared for how good the screen would look when I powered up. But before I powered up, I had to put in the extra memory I ordered from crucial. I did this because the memory was cheaper through crucial than getting it built-in.
Installing the memory was as easy as it was with my 5000. One screw out, and the door to the memory bay popped off. No problems getting the dimm to fit.
On first boot, it immediately detected the memory and went into a program that told you a little about the machine. I pretty much ignored it(I am a computer professional) but thought it would be good for a more novice computer person than I. Configuring Windows XP Pro was easy and I was in in minutes. I was immediately impressed by the speed that this computer had, and when I installed a game, was blown away by what the GeForce4 Go could do. It ran Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force, without so much as a hiccup.
Now, I haven't had any problems with the computer thus far, other than getting it to work with my wireless lan, but this was a problem with my access point, rather than the laptop. Once I got that configured and out of the way, I was browsing the web wirelessly, and at a good speed, about the same as my wired lan(no, I didn't run benchmarks to prove that ;)).
For heat dissipation, the system has 2 fans in the back that come on as needed to cool off the system. As yet, I have to be bothered by their noise, or, lack of extreme noise. I was prepared to deal with a loud fan with this machine, but I was surprised at how quiet the fans are!
I have always liked the keyboards that Dell has equipped its laptops with, and this computer is no exception. I am typing the review on my laptop and the key travel and size are very adequate. The function keys are smaller than the rest of the keyboard, but I use them sparingly, so I don't have any problems with it.
The speakers are better than I expected, as well. They do sound a bit tinny, but they have a decent range of sound and the volume is adequate for my uses. The quick keys above the keyboard also are a bonus, but I wish there was a hardware way to switch between application mode and cd/dvd player mode. These keys have 2 functions, but they are controlled by a software application that runs in the system tray on the computer.
DVD playback looks excellent, too. I did notice, however, some artifacting in dark scenes, but that was because I took a small size clip and stretched it to full screen.
Finally, (thought that would never come, eh?) I liked the fact that this computer came with both a touchpad and a pointing stick, along with two sets of mouse buttons. I personally prefer the touchpad, but I often find myself changing between the two. Also, one or the other can be disabled, so, if you would rather only use the touchpad, you can turn off the pointing stick, and vice versa.
Now, one thing happened when I ordered this. I happen to get a discount through my company, and was told that there was a rebate if I went with the 4 year warranty. That turned out to not be the case, as the rebate was for a desktop system. After a few calls, they credit my order for the amount of the rebate. I wish it was easier to get a hold of the person that took your order, however, it wasn't enough to detract from the experience.
I haven't had a need to call tech support yet(knock on wood), so I can't comment on how good/bad they are now.
On the weight side, it is a good 8 lbs. and I would expect that for what the laptop has. If you're a road warrior, however, you might want a smaller laptop, as this would strain your shoulder. I have a backpack laptop case, and this helps me carry it around, though.
On a side note, I did like the fact you could change the keyboard palmrests. I got the American Flag inserts, and I just have to say it's hard to get the standard silver rests out.
Overall, I would recommend this laptop, as it has fulfilled my expectations and hope for it to continue doing so.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 2450
Operating System: Windows
Processor: Other
Processor speed: over 1000
Screen Size: 15
RAM: More than 256
Internal Storage: DVD
Hard Drive (GB): 31-40
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Epinions.com ID:
duke2106
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Reviews written: 4
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