Joining the ranks of laptop users, maybe.

[Rico]

Here's what the laptop is for: mostly automotive diagnostics, including full dynamic data logging through the car's diagnostic port. Parts catalog, shop manual on CD, possibly some games that don't require CD/DVD in the drive to work.

Mostly, thought, it needs to have XP Pro on it, because the automotive software won't cut it with Vista. I plan on buying on on eBay, somewhere between $300-$400, including shipping. Very much like to stay under $400 all told.

Suggestions from the gurus?

[BD]

Get the strongest processor you can afford. If you need stronger than basic video, factor that in also.

You can mostly ignore Ram and HDD since those are the two things you can upgrade later as more funds are released from the Bank of WLO.

[Neophyte]

Be careful with your search. Some laptops don't come with serial ports, and your diagnostic cable *might* need a 9-pin serial interface on the laptop to connect it's data cable. You can always try to use a Serial to USB adapter if this is the case, but YMMV. I've heard of a case where the data (text) was corrupted when using a USB to Serial adapter.

Having said that, I'd look for the higher-end name brands first, "Dell" or "HP". Then "Toshiba" or "IBM/Lenovo" next. Processors with "M" in their name or good CPU's for extending battery life but if you're going to be tethered to the wall as if you're plugged in to the AC outlet, then get the true Pentium (or even better a "Core" if you can!) CPU's if you can.

[Rico]

Thanks, Neo - that's good info. Thanks to AW too - I had ASSumed that RAM would be a simple upgrade.

Now, speaking of DB-9/DB-25 - is there a way I can make the parallel port emulate a serial port, and use a DB25 ->DB9 adapter?

I see lots of laptops with 1 each DB9 and DB25. I'd like to try two inputs.

Thanks again.

[KrAzYdAvE]

never tried that myself, but you may be better off trying a USB to Serial adapter instead... I've used them before though I have had a few occasions where they won't work for my needs.

[Neophyte]

I've gone the other way Rico, and used an adapter and the DOS "Mode" command to remap an LPT port to a Serial printer. It's not quite the same as telling a Parallel port that it's now a Serial port. I don't know how to answer that one.


I suppose that I'm with KD - try a USB port (hub if necessary to gain the multiple ports) and use a USB to Serial adapter. But, as KD said, your mileage may vary based on the application and how well it likes Windows.

[Rico]

Thanks, Neo. I can e-mail the company and ask if serial->USB will work.