DXneo

IBM tough and good support
about $6000
Celeron M1.6
Wan Chai 298

*
Recover Disk, include windows
Seperate Storage require, Memory card or DVD-Writer,
USB2 x 3 if you need to use printer mouse and a card reader at least.
ram at least add up to 768(usually come with 256mb)
battery usually run out 2-3 hr, don't need extra if you only use at home,
and some school got plug at every room, find one and use AC/DC transformer.
remember the worldwide waranty and web support if you use overseas
Screen size = weight, bigger heavier,
but also small(WXGA16:9 or 16:10) mean Expensive(3:4 14" to 15" is common)

[ Last edited by DXneo on 2006-10-27 at 01:18 AM ]

DXneo

yes a bit slower
Pentium = Celeron + advanced multimedia
to perform same multimedia job celeron use more cpu time
difference in 8-10 sec for same Speed CPU in 1 minute job

but good enough for what you need office, internet and songs
Game may not be enough,
if you use for 3D modeling, Video edit in large volume it will be slow even if you got a 4G CPU
use School PC if required, College cannot help, University must have 2-3 special computer for that purpose if you study that field.

P.S. get a Web Cam, so your family can meet on MSN etc.

Good Luck

[ Last edited by DXneo on 2006-10-27 at 01:38 AM ]