retired_abess

Buy a desktop if you don't need a laptop. Far more bang for your buck and much less likely to overheat.

retired_xsoftballxbby33

Thanks for the info so far - really helpful - unfortunately I can't get a desktop cos I don't have the space in the house - also the missus wants to be able to move the laptop around the house - currently we are wired but we are going to go wireless this summer - that's why I was asking about a new laptop!!!

retired_abess

Laptops are designed to run slower if they start overheating. This helps them cool down. Great for keeping your lappy working. Bad for running FM quickly.

Few tips:

Don't have the laptop on your lap or a sofa. Heat will find it hard to dissipate and it'll get hot quick. For best results a metal desk would be great.

Blow it out with compressed air from time to time.

Close down unneeded programs.

retired_xsoftballxbby33

I've just looked at those Dell Vostro's and they look brilliant.

They seem really cheap - does anyone have an idea which one would be best for me:

http://www1.euro.dell.com/content/products/features.asp...&cid=5186&lid=121454

(Is that how you put a link on - I'm a newbie and haven't done this before!!!)

Remember all I want to do is:

Play fm

Search the net

Use the broadband connection for PS3 and 360 gaming

Store digital photos

Again, if anyone can help taht would be brilliant!!!

retired_xsoftballxbby33

Please help with the Dell Vostro advice if you can

retired_lbils

They're pretty much infinitely configurable. I would recommend the 1510, and would suggest a core 2 duo processor might be useful.

The best way to work out what you can get is by playing around with all the build options on the site. I did a little test and managed to configure a 1510 with 1.8 core 2 duo processor, 2GB RAM, for £351.33 including delivery and VAT, but there are a million different ways to configure them, so there's always a chance you'll find a better deal.

Also, have a look at the dell factory outlet to see if there is anything suitable there, it is a little difficult to use but there are sometimes bargains.

retired_lweidemann

I found FM worked incredibly slow when I first played it and noticed my HD was working all the time, switched off avast scanning the HD and it worked much better. Of course this might not be your problem, but a virus program can seriously destroy the experience of playing FM!

retired_xsoftballxbby33

Thanks for the info so far - I definitely like the look of the vostros - would the first one (the one for £169) be good enuff for the 4 tasks that I need a laptop for (please see posts above) if I can get away with the cheapest option then that's better for me - one of the it guys at work sed it wud be!!!

retired_lbils

I reckon it could deal with it, although FM will not run at an amazing speed. It's your choice - there's a balance that has to be reached. The £169 will exclude VAT and shipping, I think, remember to factor that in. And check the dell outlet - they have a special offer on at the moment (£60 discount and free delivery)!

Example idems:
System identifier Z2VCACM8 : 298 pounds including VAT & delivery looks pretty good.

retired_xsoftballxbby33

I've been in contact with Dell and when the vat, shipping and other stuff is included it goes above 300 pounds - does anybody know a cheap alternative for the tasks I need (see above posts) - I'm pretty skint at the mo so need to do this on a budget!!! Thanks everybody for the help so far!!!