<gary_hendricks_mail******.com> wrote:
> Hi Rudy,
>
> I think HP laptops are pretty good - the only thing is the AMD Turion
> 64 X2 dual core. Personally, I'd prefer an Intel dual core - I think
> Intel makes slightly better chips.

Hm, that's interesting as one can hear the Intel/AMD argument both ways.
One of the reasons I lean toward AMD is because it's a true 64-bit
processor and even though initially I would use it in 32-bit mode, I
think soon most apps will be 64-bit and then I would be ready for it. I
am also planning to dual-boot to Linux where I could already use the
64-bit capability.

> To answer your other questions:
> 1) The notebook BIOs these days usually allow you to boot from the DVD
> drive or USB, so I don't think you need to worry there.

That's good.

> 2) Again, CD and DVD drives in the very latest laptops usually read
> both + and - types of CDs and DVDs.

My question was about the CDG (or CD+G) capability which is not the same
that you answered.

> 3) I believe Microsoft would give you the Windows updates once you
> purchase the machine from HP.

That's good, too. My major draw to HP is that they seem to have a lot
of different models and often at more attractive prices for the same
config than many others. I feel I am more likely to find the features I
am looking for in an HP notebook than in others. But I am concerned
about their support. I also see some Asus notebooks I like but I am even
more concerned about support from them.

> Hope this helps and do let me know if you have more questions.

Yes it does help and thanks for it.

Rudy