Not a bad notebook
Written: Jan 31 '03 (Updated Apr 30 '03)
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Pros: Overall a good, solid notebook that is easy to upgrade
Cons: Battery doesn't last very long.
The Bottom Line: If you are on a strict budget, this would probably be a good choice, but upgrade if possible.
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| wcdaniels's Full Review: Dell Inspiron 3800 R600GW |
I received my Dell Inspiron 3800 in May 2001. I am a Jr. High teacher, and the State of Michigan decided to buy every teacher in the state a computer. In my district, we had the choice of taking a 32 inch data monitor, a Dell desktop computer, or a laptop computer. If you wanted a laptop, you had three to choose from, and I chose this one.
I also paid for some upgrades right away. This included a DVD-ROM drive, and upgrading the processor from a 600mhz to a 700mhz Intel Celeron.
Unfortunately, I had a problem right out of the box. I called Dell's support, and they shipped a new drive right out to me, which worked just fine.
Another problem I have is with the battery. Battery life was fine for about the first 13 months I had the computer. Then, the battery life dropped to about 5 minutes, even without the DVD and no programs running. I sent an e-mail to Dell, and there is nothing they could do, because the warranty for batteries is only 12 months. Now, the battery is useless, and will only run for about a minute at most. I am able to plug the laptop into a socket wherever I use it, so the battery life is not that important for me, but just annoying.
I am also not happy with the screen. Whenever I try and increase the resolution to more than 800x600, it won't work right. It makes it tough to use some programs and websites.
The final gripe I have is with the customer support. I prefer to contact companies by e-mail. The first time I contacted Dell they responded in a very prompt manner, but each time it has gotten longer and has been less helpful. I am getting an error in my system properties. There has been nothing to interfere with my daily operation, but I am afraid that eventually it will. I am getting no real help from them, and the problem is still unresolved.
On the plus side, this seems to be an okay system. It seems to be stable, and everything still works well. The DVD works well if you hook it up to a TV, which is simple with the S-video to RCA adapter.
In the classroom, running mainly my gradebook program, e-mail, a web browser, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft PowerPoint, everything is fine. I haven't used much else other than these programs. With the reductions in price from when I received my laptop, I would say it is probably worth that much. Just don't expect top-of-the-line quality or performance.
*update*
After two years, I needed to send it in to get the keyboard fixed. It was still under warranty, so it didn't cost anything. I sent it out via Airborne Express on Friday April 18, and I got it back Wednesday April 23. Not only did they replace the keyboard, but they also replaced my battery, which was out of warranty. I am extremely pleased with the service.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 1200
Operating System: Windows
Processor: Intel Celeron
Processor speed: 601-700
Screen Size: 12 inches
RAM: 128
Internal Storage: DVD
Hard Drive (GB): 13-20
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Epinions.com ID:
wcdaniels
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Reviews written: 7
Trusted by: 1 member
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