Finally got my laptop for school!

[Chickerdoodle13]

Well, my dad and I went lap top shopping yesterday. I already had an idea of the brand I wanted, but other than that I had no clue. I had a few specifics written down, but I had no clue how much I could get for my money!

I ended up going with a Toshiba Satellite A215. It cost only $699.99 and I also bought a wireless mouse, a 2 GB flash drive, an ethernet cable for school, and a carrying case. Its really a neat machine. It came with a built in webcam/microphone combo, DVD player, WiFi wireless internet cards, and a bunch of other neat things. I still have a lot to learn though.

It actually came with a trial version of macafee, but the guy recommended Trend Micro Virus protection. I deleted the macafee and installed the trend. I just have to wait for internet hookup to update everything. I will probably just wait until I go to school to get internet since I leave in about a week.

Is there any advice you computer people can give me? I want to keep my lap top in the best condition, since I'm the only one using it. I'll really be able to monitor it and run virus scans, disk defragmentations, and other checks regularly. Also, the direction booklet stated not to over charge the battery, but it also says you should leave the computer plugged in. How does this work?

Here are some specifics for those that like them:


AMD dual-core technology enables you to work or play with multiple programs without impacting performance; AMD64 technology provides simultaneous support for 32-bit and 64-bit computing


15.4" WXGA high-definition TFT-LCD widescreen display with TruBrite technology and 1280 x 800 resolution; supports 720p content


200GB Serial ATA hard drive (4200 rpm)


ATI RADEON X1200 graphics with 128MB-319MB shared video memory; S-video out


Built-in Web cam and microphone let you easily communicate with friends and family


CD/DVD media controls for easy one-touch access to movies and music; Internet button conveniently launches default Web browser for easy Net access


5-in-1 bridge media adapter supports Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, MultiMediaCard, Secure Digital and xD-Picture Card


i.LINK (IEEE 1394) port and 4 high-speed USB 2.0 ports for fast digital video, audio and data transfer


Built-in Atheros high-speed wireless LAN (802.11b/g); 10/100 Mbps Ethernet LAN with RJ-45 connector; V.92 high-speed modem


Weighs only 6.3 lbs. and measures just 1.3" thin for lightweight portability; lithium-ion battery


Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium Edition operating system preinstalled; software package included with Microsoft Works 8.5, Ulead DVD MovieFactory 5, Toshiba Disc Creator and more

 

[lacyloo]

ur so lucky i want one so bad cause im in middle skelw and really need one.

 

[Royicus]

Howdy. To maintain your computer in prime condition, I'd recommend you do the following things...

-software-
*Install and regularly update anti-virus software. Scan regularly.
*Install and regularly update spyware/adware software. Scan regularly.
*Install and regularly update a software firewall. Do not rely on the Windows integrated firewall as it is not good.
*Keep up to date with Microsoft updates. Use automatic updates if possible.
*Keep your internet browser updated to patch security issues.
*Install a password and login on your computer to prevent unauthorized use.
*Do not allow others to use your laptop. Only you will care for it as much as it deserves

-hardware/physical stuff-
*When the laptop is in your room, keep it locked to something secure. Theft does happen, and a laptop is easy to steal.
*Do not eat around your computer. I've seen several keyboards get the business end of a drink or food, and stop working. Repair is costly.
*If possible, remove your battery from your laptop when it is just sitting and plugged in. High temperatures are not good for the battery, and laptops do run hot. Do keep it topped off though for portable use. For example, charge it up to 100%, then just take it out. It will last longer that way. Note that I think some laptops don't work if you take the battery out. If this is the case, you have no other option.
*Use a carrying case for your laptop to prevent scratches in transport.
*clean with a damp cloth when dirty.


That's about all I can think of right now. If you can do those things, you should get nice and happy usage from your new laptop. Congratulations!

 

[Mac in Wisco]

Don't install large amounts of junk software. Freeware, shareware, games, unneeded utilities. I keep the basics on my computer, a web browser, e-mail software, MS Office, Adobe reader. The only extras are ITunes and a few specialized programs I need.

I am constantly asked to troubleshoot other family members computers. "This or that stopped working" "I get error messages on start up or shut down". They have a hundred background processes running from installing all kinds of junk. Their taskbar has the little mini icons running all across the bottom from running numerous utilites. They have a half dozen toolbars running on Internet Explorer , yahoo, google, etc. Keep the unneeded stuff to a minimum and your computer will perform better for you.

If you bought it for school use, keep things basic and use it for what you bought it for...

 

[Royicus]

Yes, very good point! The less you install, the better. Just keep it to essentials and you should be good to go.

Unfortunately a lot of computers come with a lot of junk installed, so I usually wipe clean and start anew. Not for everyone though. If you just keep it to a minimum, you should be fine.