I know how to run computers, im a wiz with excel, good with the programs but never understand what makes my programs run....


ANYWAY

I currently have a Dell Inspiron E1505 which well was a mistake I think... anyway It still works and I can get Windows 7 through my college for 25 (just to lazy to get to the store to buy it so far) My question is though

I have some spare cash and was thinking about maybe buying a new computer. I don't really need much in it to begin with like i said I can get Windows 7 for 25 and I can get another copy of Office 2007 for 25 and I think my last copy still has 1 license left, so switching programs isn't a problem... I'm just not sure what laptops are reliable, operate well, have good battery life etc....

Heres what I mainly need it for


Excel
Word
Quickbooks
Power Point
iTunes
AIM
Internet (some minor gaming nothing high graphics but not the lowest either)
Decent memory (I have A LOT of big assignments)
CD Burning

Extra possibles???
Video Editing (dont need just fun)


Last thing is what anti-virus would everyone recomend? one that isnt a pain in my ass and blocks everything I try to do but one that also keeps the computer safe without slowing it down with constant scans

I recently purchased a MSI ex630 on newegg.com and I absolutely love it, it will do everything you listed there with ease, heres some specs and you can google some reviews if you want, I think there is a new model out with the same specs but i don't know the model number.

* Processor: AMD turion X2 ultra dual-Core/sempron mobile
* OS: Windows vista home premium
* Chipset: NVIDIA MCP77 MH
* Screen: 16 inches, WXGA16:9
* Video: GeForce 9300M GS, 256 MB.
* Sound: 2 dynamics , HD- audio with dolby support
* HDD: 160/250/320- GB SATA
* Optical drive: DVD super multi/blu-ray DVD
* Memory: DDR2 667/800, SO-DIMM, 2 slots, up to 4 GB
* Network: Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN, Bluetooth V2.0+EDR, 802.11 b/g/n
* Card reader : 3- in -1
* Built-in 2,0-Mp camera
* Overall sizes: 374 x 246 x 26,8-35,5 mm
* Weight: 2,7 kg

As far as antivirus I use AVG just because its free and its not that annoying, like others.

Also you don't need to purchase office just yet, you can get a 2010 office beta for free

http://www.microsoft.com/office/2010/en/default.aspx

Beta lasts until september or august I think.

However I think you are better off asking on the computer section, they might be able to point u in the right way.

This post was edited by hotdogski on Mar 27 2010 05:48am