Netbook / Notebook advice please

[TedK]

Can anyone help with a few suggestions about a netbook / notebook that uses windows XP. Most of the small ones seem to run Linux only. What I am looking for is a notebook size computer to run my selection of Memory Maps on while away from home. I am not really concerned with being connected to the Internet, reading my email ect, its just for plotting routes and downloading them to my Garmin GPS, all cross country type of stuff. I have been looking at an Acer Aspire One A150-Bb but I am not sure if it has too many features that I wont use or need. Price is a consideration as is size; I don’t want to go to a full size laptop. Any help or ideas will be appreciated. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img]

[Graham1186]

Hi Wurzel. My newly acquired Asus Eee 904 runs XP. It's early days but I like it a lot. I don't know how you store your maps etc., but a downside of my Asus netbook is that it doesn't have a CD/DVD reader inbuilt, however it has 3 USB ports which I was pleased about on such a small machine. Another good point is that the keyboard has standard sized keys. They save space by only providing 70% of a keyboard, without the numeral keys.

Most folks who see it say WoW, including family, but I think they would all like me to buy them one and its too soon after Xmas.

My use is different from yours in that, when away from home, I get on internet broadband quickly and reliably via my Vodafone Dongle. Much cheaper than Wi-Fi hotspots. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]
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[TedK]

Hi Radiogandy, Thanks for your input and sorry its taken so long to give a reply. I am now looking at the Samsung NC10 with a view to buying one. My ISP is Plus Net and after mailing them they have confirmed that I will be able to read email from them if I want, but they dont support any broadband mobile net access which I would find helpful, ie Google Earth. Would I have to get another ISP for the notebook only ? As you can tell Im new to this, [img]/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img]

[putasolutions]

Why not get a PAYG mobile dongle for when you are away from home, and use the built in wireless when you are at home? Some of the dongle bundles give free wifi access as well as 3g connection, such as the O2 at number 2, though do remember that it does cost a fortune abroad

[Graham1186]

Hi Wurzel. Thanks for replying. I'm afraid I don't know the answer to your ISP query though.

Lets hope that one of our more techni-savvy members picks up your post.
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[TedK]

Thank you both for your valued help in this matter, I was not sure of some things but I am now. I have just ordered a NC 10 and I will be getting a Dongle for pay as you go thanks to Putasolutions. Good link for the likes of me. Anyway thank you both again, all the best. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

[WalterS]

There is too much choice. I am considering the Samsung NC10. There is a good info guide explaining features & choices at: budgetnetbooks.co.uk Pathfinder Guide