Desk Vs Laptop

[kg4heb]

I don't know much when it comes to these. So, tell me, is a laptop ( or is it called a notebook? samething?? ) better to have then a desk top except for the fact that you can take it anywhere. Is better to have a desktop or laptop ( notebook?) . Is the only advantage of owning a desktop is that it may have more memory , storage or disk space or what ever or is it more to it then that?? . 73, Sam

[w8gtf]

Today's laptops can be complete desktop replacements. As with any computer you need to pick one that suits your needs.

If all you plan to do is surf, run logging software, and stuff like that, then an entry level laptop should be fine. If you plan on burning dvd's or playing games, you may want to go a bit more upscale.

For the last year I've had my desktop computer in the basement and my laptop floated around the living room. It did 99% of what I needed a computer for. The only drawback (my fault) was that I only ordered the laptop with a 40 gig hard drive. This was solved by converting my desktop into basically a file server to hold all the files that I wanted, but didn't need to have on my laptop (like music & pictures).

[KB1PLB]

As GTF posted, it depends on your needs. I have a laptop and use it as a desktop most of the time but like to have the ability to go with it anywhere. They have wifi at many places now so I even take it on vacation with me. The only concern some people have is the hard drive space not being as good. To solve that I use an external USB drive to both back up my lappy and store all my music picture and movies.

If you decide to go the way of lappy and use it mostly as a desktop I suggest you take off the battery and store it charged, you can put it on once a month or so give it a workout on the battery and charge it again and store it. My lappy used to get 4-5 hours regular use when new not it only goes for 2 since I left it plugged in all the time and never worked out the battery.

[KD6NIG]

Look at the comfort of it too.

Laptop computer keyboards are often more compact and not as comfortable as a regular one.

Some laptops can also have heat issues if used heavily, IE for gaming, or not properly. "Laptop" in itself is a misnomer-if you put it on your lap you will probably block vital vents.

It all depends on what you want to do. If you want to add on or modify it, it usually adds about 20% to the cost (ram, etc) though usually USB stuff is the same price since it doesn't have to be laptop specific.

It really boils down to your computing needs. If you want more power and expandibility you're better off with a desktop. If you need to be portable a lot, then a laptop works.

Just make sure you use it on a solid, non-blanket or other covered surface so it vents properly. I've seen many die prematurely because of heat issues.

And yes, pull the battery when you don't need it, or you'll cook it nicely http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[KD0BIK]

I think other than what's already been said, some people buy a computer (desktop or laptop) based on what their current needs are or what their current fiances will allow them to have. There is nothing wrong with that.

However, a desktop PC will be easier to upgrade (add more RAM, add a second hard-drive, upgrade to a DVD writer etc.) as the need presents itself.

Of course, as both stated in their comments you can purchase an external USB hard-drive which will solve the hdd upgrade issue.

If you do choose to go the direction of the laptop I would make certain it has at least one serial port on it. Some do....but some do not. I realize you can get a USB to serial interface....but sometimes nothing beats having a good serial port especially for rig interface etc.

Jerry

[w8gtf]

With respect to the keyboard and heat issues. For me I solved the heat issue by spending about $15 on ebay for a cooling pad. This runs off of a USB port and has 3 40mm fans in it. The fans blow down and suck air between the bottom of the laptop and the top of the pad, then exhausts it out the back.

I never found the keyboard as much of a hassle as the touch pad. I connected a regular USB mouse (that I had laying around) and used it. You could also connect a USB keyboard.

I also found this folding "craft" table that is about 2 feet wide by 3 feet long for about $15. This is the perfect table for sitting on the couch and working on my laptop. I have room for the laptop, the mouse & pad, and a drink.

When I take my laptop to work, I have an extra monitor, keyboard, and mouse at my desk. I just plug the lappy in and use it like a desktop computer, which is another option. If you plan to be more stationary than mobile. Use a monitor, keyboard, and mouse to make a sort of docking station. If you are short USB ports to plug everything in that you need, I got a very nice powered USB hub for $11 at a Microcenter.

All told, I have about an extra $41 invested in making my laptop easier to use when I am sitting on the couch at home.

[WA9SVD]

[quote=w8gtf,Jan. 09 2008,10:55]Today's laptops can be complete desktop replacements. As with any computer you need to pick one that suits your needs.

Not exactly.

Current laptops (and alas, many "name brand" desktops) have only USB serial ports, and either NO RS-232c or NO RS-232c OR Parallel "Printer" (IEEE 1284) Ports.
While this may be hailed as the "future," and "cutting edge," the truth of the matter is than much software for Amateur applications STILL requires one, the other, or both types of "legacy" ports. And while there ARE, arguably, USB-to-RS-232c adapters, they ARE a "hit or miss" solution, not all will properly emulate an RS-232c port, and not all will be compatible with the current software versions.

There are still some desktop systems (and "build-it-yourself") systems that still have 2 RS-232c and one Parallel Printer port, as well as four to eight USB ports, usually USB 2.0, the current standard and fastest USB implementation available.

In general, while laptops may have similar performance to desktops, they are often difficult (or even impossible) to upgrade, even incrementally. If they can be upgraded to some extent, it's usually at a premium $$$ vs. an equivalent desktop. And laptop hard drives STILL are not as fast as desktop drives, or you pay $$$ for the equivalent performance.
The laptops DO have the benefit of portability, so you DO have to weigh the benefits vs. disadvantages.

[KD8COO]

Laptops with similar performance to desktops still tend to command a price premium. I also don't like the lack of ports and small keyboards. My laptop spends most of the time in storage. I think I used it 3 times all of last year (and it was brand new the year before that)?

It all depends on your needs.

[w8gtf]

Quote[/b] (wa9svd @ Jan. 09 2008,15:44)]Quote[/b] (w8gtf @ Jan. 09 2008,10:55)]Today's laptops can be complete desktop replacements. As with any computer you need to pick one that suits your needs.

Not exactly.

Current laptops (and alas, many "name brand" desktops) have only USB serial ports, and either NO RS-232c or NO RS-232c OR Parallel "Printer" (IEEE 1284) Ports.
While this may be hailed as the "future," and "cutting edge," the truth of the matter is than much software for Amateur applications STILL requires one, the other, or both types of "legacy" ports. And while there ARE, arguably, USB-to-RS-232c adapters, they ARE a "hit or miss" solution, not all will properly emulate an RS-232c port, and not all will be compatible with the current software versions.

There are still some desktop systems (and "build-it-yourself") systems that still have 2 RS-232c and one Parallel Printer port, as well as four to eight USB ports, usually USB 2.0, the current standard and fastest USB implementation available.
Have you bought a new computer or a motherboard lately? The last one I bought did not have a 9 pin serial port. It had the port on the motherboard and what looked like an expansion port backing plate with a serial port mounted on the outboard part, and a ribbon cable on the inboard that connected to the port on the motherboard.

Most new computers that I have seen have neither serial ports or PS2 ports.

While my original post was not to damn the fact that new computers (desktops & laptops) do or do not have RS-232 port. I believe the section about choosing a laptop that suits your needs covers that. If you have software/hardware that requires serial ports, then you need to choose a computer that has those ports.

Plus, my laptop has this wide flat port that is labled "Expansion Port 3". The adaptor that plugs into that has several cables with different adaptors on it. One has 2 USB ports, one has a VGA port, one is ethernet, and one is serial. This is very helpful for adding additional common ports to my laptop.

[kf6rdn]

Quote[/b] ]If you want more power and expandibility you're better off with a desktop. If you need to be portable a lot, then a laptop works.

Given the same price, this is really the bottom line. I have a new, whiz bang laptop that's still slower for gaming then a couple year old desktop.

But I use the laptop more as I enjoy doing my computing horizontally whenever possible, in loaf mode or outside in the air.
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[w1zp]

Get both....then you won't have to worry about who's right.

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (w8gtf @ Jan. 09 2008,21:07)]Quote[/b] (wa9svd @ Jan. 09 2008,15:44)]Quote[/b] (w8gtf @ Jan. 09 2008,10:55)]Today's laptops can be complete desktop replacements. As with any computer you need to pick one that suits your needs.

Not exactly.

Current laptops (and alas, many "name brand" desktops) have only USB serial ports, and either NO RS-232c or NO RS-232c OR Parallel "Printer" (IEEE 1284) Ports.
While this may be hailed as the "future," and "cutting edge," the truth of the matter is than much software for Amateur applications STILL requires one, the other, or both types of "legacy" ports. And while there ARE, arguably, USB-to-RS-232c adapters, they ARE a "hit or miss" solution, not all will properly emulate an RS-232c port, and not all will be compatible with the current software versions.

There are still some desktop systems (and "build-it-yourself") systems that still have 2 RS-232c and one Parallel Printer port, as well as four to eight USB ports, usually USB 2.0, the current standard and fastest USB implementation available.
Have you bought a new computer or a motherboard lately? The last one I bought did not have a 9 pin serial port. It had the port on the motherboard and what looked like an expansion port backing plate with a serial port mounted on the outboard part, and a ribbon cable on the inboard that connected to the port on the motherboard.

Most new computers that I have seen have neither serial ports or PS2 ports.

While my original post was not to damn the fact that new computers (desktops & laptops) do or do not have RS-232 port. I believe the section about choosing a laptop that suits your needs covers that. If you have software/hardware that requires serial ports, then you need to choose a computer that has those ports.

Plus, my laptop has this wide flat port that is labled "Expansion Port 3". The adaptor that plugs into that has several cables with different adaptors on it. One has 2 USB ports, one has a VGA port, one is ethernet, and one is serial. This is very helpful for adding additional common ports to my laptop.
As a matter of fact, yes.

Laptop has only 4 USB ports, 1VGA port, and 1 Ehternet port. No RS-232c Serial port, no IEEE-1284 (aka Parallel Printer) Port. (Goodbye LaserJet printer. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif )

Assembled three desktops in last six months. One had 2 RS-232 and 1 Parallel port, another had parallel port and one RS-232 port, another had only six USB ports. New Dell computers come only with USB connectors, no parallel printer port or RS-232c port.

The USB->RS-232c "adapters" are hit or miss as to function; many will not fully emulate RS-232c, and often their drivers cannot (or will not) map to the COM ports that much Amateur software expects.(IF the Amateur software is expecting RS-232c ports, it usually expects COM1-4, so a USB adapter than maps to COM5 or COM8 is useless.)

While it's fine to suggest picking a laptop to "fill the need," finding one (new) that fulfills the needs for much Amateur software is getting more difficult, if not impossible (or affordable.)
At least SOME desktop systems provide some choice; but almost all will be in the "custom" or DIY category, not an "off the shelf" box from the major manufacturers. And since not everyone can or is willing to go the DIY route, that means the custom built box can also command a premium price.
Unless a person REALLY needs the portability of a laptop, they are still better off getting a desktop machine.

[K9FV]

I've been using notebooks for the last 18 yrs 90% of the time for my personal computers and I STILL MUCH prefer the desktop computer. MUST faster and flexible for the same amount of money. It's just that notebooks fit on the boat easier and easy to carry around while traveling.

73 de Ken

[KB1PLB]

just a question that popped into my head, but should our technology move a bit from the older interfaces (rs-232) to the newer (usb/firewire) ust for the sake of keeping up with times. I don't see many rs232 interfaces offered with new desktop or lappy's.

[kf6rdn]

Quote[/b] (KB1PLB @ Jan. 10 2008,17:21)]just a question that popped into my head, but should our technology move a bit from the older interfaces (rs-232) to the newer (usb/firewire) ust for the sake of keeping up with times. I don't see many rs232 interfaces offered with new desktop or lappy's.
That would be nice, you would think so, but not the case.
I've really never had a problem with the USB-serial adapters though, and have had a parallel port printer in some time.

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (kf6rdn @ Jan. 10 2008,23:03)]Quote[/b] (KB1PLB @ Jan. 10 2008,17:21)]just a question that popped into my head, but should our technology move a bit from the older interfaces (rs-232) to the newer (usb/firewire) ust for the sake of keeping up with times. I don't see many rs232 interfaces offered with new desktop or lappy's.
That would be nice, you would think so, but not the case.
I've really never had a problem with the USB-serial adapters though, and have had a parallel port printer in some time.
That's really part of the problem.

Why should a person have to trash a perfectly good H-P LaserJet (or other periphreals) in order to buy the newest and greatest computer? There's no printer made that can outpace the "old" Parallel Port, so speed isn't the reason; and because USB requires OS drivers for most devices to function, there's no functionality before the OS loads. You used to be able to print the BIOS settings to a parallel printer, for reference and troubleshooting purposes; that trick doesn't work with USB printers.
Lots of people (and businesses) have a considerable amount of $$$ tied up in peripherals that still work and are used frequently, but still use the older interfaces. A $1000 35mm slide scanner isn't an item to take to the recycle site just because a person buys a new computer.

Just as a thought, maybe a GOOD, reliable USB-> RS-232c adapter would be a good article for QST to publish.

[KD6NIG]

Quote[/b] (KB1PLB @ Jan. 10 2008,18:21)]just a question that popped into my head, but should our technology move a bit from the older interfaces (rs-232) to the newer (usb/firewire) ust for the sake of keeping up with times. I don't see many rs232 interfaces offered with new desktop or lappy's.
You can get them cheaply.

The only problem is some things won't work with them. Most stuff will because its just another communication port, but some things rely on the signal levels more than others.

Case in point-my packet station needs a true port. I have an older computer I use that runs 24/7 that also sends my weather station reports and keeps the pictures my webcams take. I had to put it back onto that system-when I got my new one it only had 6 USB ports and it would not agree with the USB/Serial converter. Everything else (HRD, and the weather station itself) work fine. So I have one USB/Serial on each, and use the "real" serial port for the packet station on the old one.

But, seeing as I haven't seen a new printer with a "Standard" printer port hookup in ages, its not surprising. Taking all that stuff off the board frees up interrupts for other stuff.

They do sell USB to Printer port converters as well for people who still love their old dot matrix. Good luck finding ribbon for it, of course.

USB (except for rare situations like I listed) is fine for most applications though. Its expandable too-just add a hub and you're good to go if you need more ports. I believe the current limitation is 128 devices....if you have that many you need more than one computer to run them all probably anyway http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

The only other drawback to USB only is I had to get a new one of those "dual keyboard" switches-so you can run 2 computers with 1 keyboard/mouse. The one I had came with the old connections for keyboard and mouse. But I got one with USB now and it works better than the old one did-even switches my speakers to the computer I'm controlling. Pretty neat http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[K8ERV]

Don't have time right now to read the whole thread, but my biggest problem with the laps is the (necessary) non-standard keyboard. Sure wish the mfrs would publish close-up pix of their keyboards.

TOM K8ERV Montrose Colo

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (K8ERV @ Jan. 11 2008,11:25)]Don't have time right now to read the whole thread, but my biggest problem with the laps is the (necessary) non-standard keyboard. Sure wish the mfrs would publish close-up pix of their keyboards.

TOM K8ERV Montrose Colo
Tom,

That's hardly "new." Every computer I've used has had a different keyboard layout; it all started with the IBM vs. Compaq and the Compaq clones that proliferated. Each manufacturer thought they were Ford, with a "better idea."
But laptops ARE the most aggravating by a long shot.

[KG4RUL]

Of course, if your lap is the size of a desk, the choice is obvious!

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (KG4RUL @ Jan. 11 2008,15:55)]Of course, if your lap is the size of a desk, the choice is obvious!
Diet? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[K8ERV]

I know the keyboard problem is not new. I have one desk and two laps, all different. Still think the mfrs should show detailed pix of their keyboards.

TOM K8ERV Montrose Colo

[W1GUH]

Re: Laptop keyboards

No problem, really, just add a "real" keyboard. Cheap and easy.

This computer is a Dell Inspiron laptop I got in 2002, and I've never regretted getting a laptop over a desktop. Fact is, except for games, it's still going strong.

But yes, you'll pay a premium for a laptop, but don't forget one of the not-obvious features. All laptops come with a "built-in UPS." No worries about power failures.

And about HD size on a laptop. On this one, anyway, replacing the HD is trivial. One screw, take out the old, put in the new. Installing windows is relatively painless...the hard part is installing all the applications you want (You can find the CD or DVD, rignt? ) Once you have two load HD's, they're totally swappable. You could have XP on one and Linux on the other one.

Laptops are very expandable. With either the PC-MIA, or the new one, you can pretty much do, I/O-wise, what you can do with a desktop, and you don't have to open the case. I use PC-MIA's for Hi speed USB and wi-fi on this machine. Again, no problem.

To add to that, my work machine is a laptop, and when it's in the docking station at work, I completely forget that I'm using a laptop. Bigger displays and better keyboards are as easy as with a desktop.

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (W1GUH @ Jan. 13 2008,00:08)]Re: Laptop keyboards

No problem, really, just add a "real" keyboard. Cheap and easy.

This computer is a Dell Inspiron laptop I got in 2002, and I've never regretted getting a laptop over a desktop. Fact is, except for games, it's still going strong.

But yes, you'll pay a premium for a laptop, but don't forget one of the not-obvious features. All laptops come with a "built-in UPS." No worries about power failures.

And about HD size on a laptop. On this one, anyway, replacing the HD is trivial. One screw, take out the old, put in the new. Installing windows is relatively painless...the hard part is installing all the applications you want (You can find the CD or DVD, rignt? ) Once you have two load HD's, they're totally swappable. You could have XP on one and Linux on the other one.

Laptops are very expandable. With either the PC-MIA, or the new one, you can pretty much do, I/O-wise, what you can do with a desktop, and you don't have to open the case. I use PC-MIA's for Hi speed USB and wi-fi on this machine. Again, no problem.

To add to that, my work machine is a laptop, and when it's in the docking station at work, I completely forget that I'm using a laptop. Bigger displays and better keyboards are as easy as with a desktop.
Mostly true, but laptops STILL have very limited capability or expandability:


1. Processor speed is lower than equivalent desktop
2. Maximum Memory capacity is often less than a desktop, more expensive, and often slower
3. Price is still higher
4. Hard drives can often (not always) be upgraded, but Lappy drives are still:
a) lower capacity than desktop drives
b) slower than equivalent desktop drives
c) more expensive than desktop drives
5. Keyboards are smaller; with fewer keys, yjey ARE less convenient, especially for those who have to do a lot of numeric entry. A full size keyboard CAN usually be added; see #3 above.
6. Numneous USB ports often lead to a plethora of "wall warts" to run devices such as a printer, scanner, USB hub.
7. Lack of "legacy ports" makes many peripherals useless.
Some preipherals can utilize adapters that MAY or MAY NOT work; see #3 above.

Some of the above may have work-arounds; some do not. Some may be important to some people, some are not even a consideration.
It's still a personal choice, and probably the greatest factor is whether the portability of a lappy is really needed or justified. Not everyone needs or can afford both a lappy and a desktop.

[K8ERV]

Quote[/b] (W1GUH @ Jan. 13 2008,00:08)]#All laptops come with a "built-in UPS." #No worries about power failures.
So true, and I never thot of that!! Thanks.

TOM K8ERV Montrose Colo

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (K8ERV @ Jan. 13 2008,12:27)]Quote[/b] (W1GUH @ Jan. 13 2008,00:08)] All laptops come with a "built-in UPS." No worries about power failures.
So true, and I never thot of that!! Thanks.

TOM K8ERV Montrose Colo
But as pointed out previously, if the battery of a laptop is installed and left connected to power continuously, (never exercised or run through charge/discharge cycles) it can and usually will die prematurely. So that UPS (aka battery) may quickly fail in a year or two and provide only a false sense of security. And replacement laptop batteries are often VERY expensive; often close to the price of a new desktop mobo and processor. A true UPS is much less expensice in the long run.

[N7VQM]

Quote[/b] (KD6NIG @ Jan. 11 2008,09:42)]The only problem is some things won't work with them. Most stuff will because its just another communication port, but some things rely on the signal levels more than others.
Definitely true with those $10-$20 jobs from companies like Belkin. I don't know how many troubleshooting calls we get related to those.

My job is in serial control products and I have found this (http://www.keyspan.com/products/usa49wg/) product from Keyspan to be reliable for RS232. Only problem is it's too pricey to just buy for your home computer.

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (N7VQM @ Jan. 13 2008,15:37)]Quote[/b] (KD6NIG @ Jan. 11 2008,09:42)]The only problem is some things won't work with them. Most stuff will because its just another communication port, but some things rely on the signal levels more than others.
Definitely true with those $10-$20 jobs from companies like Belkin. I don't know how many troubleshooting calls we get related to those.

My job is in serial control products and I have found this (http://www.keyspan.com/products/usa49wg/) product from Keyspan to be reliable for RS232. Only problem is it's too pricey to just buy for your home computer.
Aw heck, what's $149 (plus shipping, handling, and tax) amoungst a few Amateurs? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

Yep, that's a bit steep. then again, who really needs rig control, a TNC or GPS interface, or anything else that requires an RS-232c interface, anyway. Hasn't the new wave of experts taken us past all that legacy junk already? If Microshaft says we don't need the old ports, who are we to argue?

[W1GUH]

'SVD' list...

Quote[/b] ]1. Processor speed is lower than equivalent desktop
2. Maximum Memory capacity is often less than a desktop, more expensive, and often slower
3. Price is still higher
4. Hard drives can often (not always) be upgraded, but Lappy drives are still:
a) lower capacity than desktop drives
b) slower than equivalent desktop drives
c) more expensive than desktop drives
5. Keyboards are smaller; with fewer keys, yjey ARE less convenient, especially for those who have to do a lot of numeric entry. A full size keyboard CAN usually be added; see #3 above.
6. Numneous USB ports often lead to a plethora of "wall warts" to run devices such as a printer, scanner, USB hub.
7. Lack of "legacy ports" makes many peripherals useless.

1) That's true, except that very few applications require faster speed than you get in a laptop. I've still using my 2002 Dell at 1.7 gHz for almost all applications. Where I need more horsepower is in gaming, and, in that respect, I'm woefully inadequate. And, if you're heavy into processing images with Photoshop, the extra speed is useful, but for most applications, you just don't need something faster than what comes in a laptop.

2) I don't know what you can get in a desktop. With Dell, anyway, the step from 1G to 2G is priced reasonably (or 2G is standard). Going from 2G to 4G is very, very expensive. But, like point #1, how many applications that people are going to be using at home really need greater than 4G?

3) Probably will always be true for equivalent performance.

4)
a. So get an external HD for heavy duty storage at home.
b. Dunno about that one, I don't pay attention to desktops. This old machine has very satisfactory HD performance.
c. Maybe, but see a, above

5) Get outta here, USB keyboards are cheap and easy.

6) WHAT are you talking about? Sure each device hooked to a USB port will probably have a wall wart, but that problem exists independent of the laptop/desktop question.

7) Ya gotta get into present time sometime. Chances are, those devices that need a "legacy port" probably have much better counterparts today that'll do the job much better.

As about laptop batteries...

I've used this lap top exactly like you outlined, and one of the batteries failed after close to 5 years, the other is weak and needs replacement, but it's still useful as a "UPS." They were strong for at least 3 years.

Offered, not to have an argument with 'SVD, but to provide useful information about laptops.

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (W1GUH @ Jan. 20 2008,15:51)]'SVD' list...

Quote[/b] ]1. Processor speed is lower than equivalent desktop
2. Maximum Memory capacity is often less than a desktop, more expensive, and often slower
3. Price is still higher
4. Hard drives can often (not always) be upgraded, but Lappy drives are still:
a) lower capacity than desktop drives
b) slower than equivalent desktop drives
c) more expensive than desktop drives
5. Keyboards are smaller; with fewer keys, yjey ARE less convenient, especially for those who have to do a lot of numeric entry. A full size keyboard CAN usually be added; see #3 above.
6. Numneous USB ports often lead to a plethora of "wall warts" to run devices such as a printer, scanner, USB hub.
7. Lack of "legacy ports" makes many peripherals useless.

1) That's true, except that very few applications require faster speed than you get in a laptop. I've still using my 2002 Dell at 1.7 gHz for almost all applications. Where I need more horsepower is in gaming, and, in that respect, I'm woefully inadequate. And, if you're heavy into processing images with Photoshop, the extra speed is useful, but for most applications, you just don't need something faster than what comes in a laptop.

2) I don't know what you can get in a desktop. With Dell, anyway, the step from 1G to 2G is priced reasonably (or 2G is standard). Going from 2G to 4G is very, very expensive. But, like point #1, how many applications that people are going to be using at home really need greater than 4G?

3) Probably will always be true for equivalent performance.

4)
a. So get an external HD for heavy duty storage at home.
b. Dunno about that one, I don't pay attention to desktops. This old machine has very satisfactory HD performance.
c. Maybe, but see a, above

5) Get outta here, USB keyboards are cheap and easy.

6) WHAT are you talking about? Sure each device hooked to a USB port will probably have a wall wart, but that problem exists independent of the laptop/desktop question.

7) Ya gotta get into present time sometime. Chances are, those devices that need a "legacy port" probably have much better counterparts today that'll do the job much better.

As about laptop batteries...

I've used this lap top exactly like you outlined, and one of the batteries failed after close to 5 years, the other is weak and needs replacement, but it's still useful as a "UPS." They were strong for at least 3 years.

Offered, not to have an argument with 'SVD, but to provide useful information about laptops.
Well, I'm not the only one here to disagree with you, but that's OK.

1. Speed is in the eye (and wallet) of the beholder; in the ever increasing demand for processor/system speed, Operating System demands speed becomes important, and a cost factor. I can do almost everything with a K6-2/450 that a dual-core Pentium running ~3 GHz can do. So WHAT if it does it slower? Laptop topology is still more $ than desktop, that's all I said and all I meant to say.


2. Expansion Memory from Dell , H-P, Compaq, etc. is still 25-100% more expensive than from outside sources, even for the SAME manufacturer/vendor. A little comparison shopping goes a LONG way; but memory from the same manufacturer, with the same specs, should be the same no matter what. I.E., Kingston or Corsair memory with the same specs should be the same whether you buy it from Fry's or on-line from the manufacturer, and whether you pay $40 or $75 for the same module. Paying more for the same product is, well, shall we say "extravagant?"

3. Yep we agree. Laptops will probably ALWAYS be more expensive than an equivalent desktop. (Although, when you add the price of a decent monitor, the difference does become less.)

4. Yes, USB hard drives are available. But an added expense, and I have yet to see a USB or even Firewire drive that will have the performance of an internal Ultra DMA100 or DMA133 drive. You are talking about add-on peripherals, and comparing watermelons to kumquats. They are totally different beasts.

5. While USB peripherals MAY be available, thay aren't often what everyone has been using, so that's an added expense. Easy, of course, if expense is no object, or if you have never had a compuiter before. But there are many "high performance" keyboards with (IMHO) weird layouts that only a dedicated pro writer could love, but not available in a USB incarnation.

Wanna tell professional writers they have to give up a keyboard just to conform to USB? Let me know, so I can duck out of the way!

7. Again, tell the professional photographer that a "New computer" will not be compatible with the $1000- $2000 slide scanner he/she bought and they have to scrap it and buy another. Or the offices that have numerous H-P LaserJet printers that won't work with the "new' computer upgrades, because they don't have a compatible interface? Tell the GPS manufacturers their interface is "outdated" and unsupported.

7. AGAIN:

Change merely for the sake of Technological change is foolish. Change should only be for an improvement, not just for the sake of change itself.


As to laptop batteries, again, others here have already expressed different experiences from your own.
I will say that I had two batteries for a laptop. One had to be replaced twice in the first year because of "self-discharge" and/or manufacturing defects; the battery wouldn't hold a charge for more than a week. A battery from a different manufacturer would hold at least a useful charge for a month, but barely allow a boot untuil it was exhausted. The first battery (after the replacements) would run the laptop for about 5' after the first year, with constant connection to AC. The other battery would provide 30' or more when charged only once every 2-3 weeks, or when used extensively.
YMMV, of course. But unless batteries and battery life is tested, it's not safe to assume the laptop battery will "save the day."

[W1GUH]

We're talking pears and cumquats.

(I'd say apples and oranges, but the word "apple" would send this discussion into a whole differen universe!)

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (W1GUH @ Jan. 21 2008,12:51)]We're talking pears and cumquats.

(I'd say apples and oranges, but the word "apple" would send this discussion into a whole differen universe!)

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
I thought it was "Desktop vs. laptop?"

[W1GUH]

Yea, but we're addressing two entirely different sets of users.

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (W1GUH @ Jan. 22 2008,10:13)]Yea, but we're addressing two entirely different sets of users.
Is that what the originator of the thread asked?

[W1GUH]

Quote[/b] (WA9SVD @ Jan. 22 2008,00:05)]Quote[/b] (W1GUH @ Jan. 22 2008,10:13)]Yea, but we're addressing two entirely different sets of users.
Is that what the originator of the thread asked?
Well, here it is...

Quote[/b] ]I don't know much when it comes to these. So, tell me, is a laptop ( or is it called a notebook? samething?? ) better to have then a desk top except for the fact that you can take it anywhere. Is better to have a desktop or laptop ( notebook?) . Is the only advantage of owning a desktop is that it may have more memory , storage or disk space or what ever or is it more to it then that?? . 73, Sam


Sounds like he needed general info about the subject, and between the two of us I think we've given the original poster the kind of information he needs from multiple points of view.

Sam, hope you didn't get overwhelmed and the we've helped you determine your needs.

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (W1GUH @ Jan. 23 2008,10:51)]Quote[/b] (WA9SVD @ Jan. 22 2008,00:05)]Quote[/b] (W1GUH @ Jan. 22 2008,10:13)]Yea, but we're addressing two entirely different sets of users.
Is that what the originator of the thread asked?
Well, here it is...

Quote[/b] ]I don't know much when it comes to these. So, tell me, is a laptop ( or is it called a notebook? samething?? ) better to have then a desk top except for the fact that you can take it anywhere. Is better to have a desktop or laptop ( notebook?) . Is the only advantage of owning a desktop is that it may have more memory , storage or disk space or what ever or is it more to it then that?? . 73, Sam


Sounds like he needed general info about the subject, and between the two of us I think we've given the original poster the kind of information he needs from multiple points of view.

Sam, hope you didn't get overwhelmed and the we've helped you determine your needs.
OK. Have we convinced the originator whether he wants pears or kumquats? http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

there are distinct advantages and disadvantages to desktops and laptops, so YES, it is up to the individaul to decide what suits them best.

I'm almost ready to drag out the old XT with the Quadlink and run some REALLY good software. (If only I can find that "FILER" boot diskette somewhere! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif )

[W1GUH]

OK, that does it, it's back to my beloved Amiga!
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (W1GUH @ Jan. 24 2008,17:00)]OK, that does it, it's back to my beloved Amiga!
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif
I'll see your Amiga and raise you an Atari and a Timex Sinclair!
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

[kg4heb]

Sounds like he needed general info about the subject, and between the two of us I think we've given the original poster the kind of information he needs from multiple points of view.

Sam, hope you didn't get overwhelmed and the we've helped you determine your needs.[/QUOTE]
Overwhelmed, not at all. I'll admit some things where over my head but I appreciate all. Even the things I don't understand makes me ask or read things that teach me more. I already have a desk top, the Dell Dimension C521 before that it was the HP pavilion from 2000 or 2001. I also upgraded from dial-up to DSL which is like going from night to day. I was thinking of selling or trading my desktop for a laptop. But, after reading the post I have decided on keeping the desk top and just getting a laptop to use on the go or on the couch. But I am on a budget and looking at getting an Icom-746Pro, then maybe a laptop. Thanks all and 73, Sam

[K8ERV]

[QUOTE=W1GUH;1112990]OK, that does it, it's back to my beloved Amiga!
QUOTE]

Amiga? You must be a newbie. Nothing beat my PET. Literally.:rolleyes: