Things have kind of slowed down here at the Seto Shack. But I have a couple of things on order that are "in transit" so I hope to be able to report on them when they come in. The first is a wireless network based on the Linksys WRT54GS 802.11g router with what they call "SpeedBooster" technology.
The second is something to work with the wireless network. Namely, a Dell Inspiron 1150 laptop computer. Up to now, I've avoided getting a laptop because the cost just didn't justify the benefits. I mean what one paid for a middle-of-the-road laptop would buy a desktop speedster that would run rings around any laptop. Well, the future is here and the cost of the cheapest laptops have finally fallen into the range where I've decided to get one.
The Inspiron 1150 is a cheap laptop. If you understand what that means, you know what the tradeoffs are. For example, there's the weight. This one starts at 7.2 lbs. (~3.3kg). This is by no means a lightweight. Lugging 7 pounds, plus A/C adapter and nylon case around an airport will not be fun.
Second, this is not a speed demon. The CPU is an Intel 2.4GHz Celeron. While having such a processor a few years ago would lead to envy, now a 2.4 Celeron won't get you into bed with a Baywatch Babe (or able to watch her pr0n video).
Third, the screen is a 14.1-inch display rather than one of those snazzy 17-inch wide-screen jobs that everyone seems to be falling over themselves trying to snag.
But the bottom line is I got one for about $750, which is about what a cheap desktop goes for. So now I will be able to take the laptop to meetings and run spreadsheets or write minutes, as things happen. When SWMBO goes to the neighbor islands she can take it with her.
And lastly, when not used at work, I can use it at home to surf the net from the comfort of the living room sofa while watching those bouncing babes on Baywatch [ducking and taking cover].
Aloha!
