Couch potato notebook

[Howard Kaikow]

I've long realized that I waste a lot if time in my Lazy Boy chair watching TV, staring into space or doing other non-productive activities, when I could really get a lot done if I had a notebook computer in my lap when I just cannot summon the energy or desire to go sit in front of the desktop.

I was thinking that I'd need something with a large screen as most of what I would be doing would be VB/VBA/VB.NET programming, testing, and writing associated documentation, usually HTML files.

Not to mention that I have serious eye problems and probably need a large screen anyway,

I figure that if I have a notebook computer, then whilst, say, watching a football game that might take 3 hours, even if I get only 15-30 minutes of work done, that sure adds up.

Or, I could surf newsgroups, web sites and read email whilst watching TV. Just getting those tasks out of the way would make me much more productive on a desktop.

I've already got a wireless router on the desktop, so, if I am lucky, I might be able to network from downstairs to upstairs (or just use a very looong cable). I use dial-up modem, and would use phone connection downstairs.

What would be a good notebook for such a couch potato?

[countingapples]

the HP Pavillion zv5404 works well for that use. it has a 15.4" high-def screen. and it's been quite happy with my vba work. there are lots to choose from that will do what you want and fit your parameters. look at your local stores and online at places such as http://www.tigerdirect.com (http://www.tigerdirect.com/) (there are others) and get a feel for what size screen suits your need, what price you want to pay, etc. for every person you ask, you will get a different recommendation. you ultimately must choose the one that "speaks" to you the most. good luck on your hunt. :2p:

[ALaRiva]

I do all of the programming you mentioned, as well as a ton more, and I just got a new laptop and it's working perfect for everything you mentioned.

It's the Fujitsu Lifebook N6010

Specs:
- P4 3.2Ghz
- 512MB Ram
- 60GB HD (This was enough for me, since I have a desktop for major storage)
- Radeon Pro 9700 128MB Graphics Card (DEDICATED!!!)
- DVD / CDRW Drive
- Media Reader Slot
- 17" Widescreen
- WinXP Home (I upgraded to Pro for IIS (Web Application design))

I've been using it alot lately and it's performing better than my desktop

I got it from www.Notebookshop.com (http://www.Notebookshop.com), although I went in to one of the location which is near me, but the people are stellar with assisting people, they did a good job.

Hope this helps

Oh . . . And it works great as a couch laptop. I've got a loveseat in my office and I sit on it when working on the laptop and it's quite comfortable.

- Anthony