Impressions on new T42 14"

Message

Leon · #1 Post by **Leon** » Mon Jun 28, 2004 1:04 pm

I've had my new machine (2373-9ZU) since Friday. I am an experienced, demanding user, and this laptop is my only PC. My only hesitation in purchasing was the indecision over portability vs bigger screen size and better screen quality. But I figured with the 30 day return policy, how could I lose.

All I can say, is that 5 min. after I opened the box, I knew it was a keeper. The 15" Flexview screens are probably better quality, but this screen is GREAT! Also, although I was worried, (and I DON'T have perfect eyesight), the clarity of XSVGA on this 14" screen is crisp and clear.

I don't dispute the need of the 15" for those with demanding graphical applications that require the bigger size or better quality. But, if your "on the fence" over the portability vs size/quality issue, and only think you MIGHT miss those things, I say go for the 14" (IMHO). But, whichever you choose, you'll love it!

Hangfire · #2 Post by **Hangfire** » Mon Jun 28, 2004 1:23 pm

That is sooo nice to hear! My 3UU should be here tomorrow and I was wondering about the 14.1 vs. 15.0 issue.
I've got a 15.0 HP now but needed something smaller and lighter. Thanks for the info!

texref · #3 Post by **texref** » Mon Jun 28, 2004 7:23 pm

Leon wrote: I've had my new machine (2373-9ZU) since Friday.

dude, that's SOO great since I'm thinking of getting the SAME EXACT model. is it alright if I email you?

Hangfire · #4 Post by **Hangfire** » Mon Jun 28, 2004 8:19 pm

Well my T-42 did not make it today... supposed to be here tomorrow. Left Bill's on Friday, 2nd day air, I figured it'd be here today.

Oh well, one more day of waiting...

Bobert · #5 Post by **Bobert** » Mon Jun 28, 2004 8:47 pm

I recently received my 3UU and was noticing that the screen was a little fuzzy. I haven't been on a laptop for about a year, but I remember the LCDs being much more crisp. I also noticed that it seems like every other line in my Start | Programs list, and even when I write this posting is more crisp than the previous. If I am in a list like Internet Options in IE and scroll the line that is crisp seems to move with the list. Perhaps it is the screen vs the software.? I am not sure if I am just being nitpicky since I am used to a CRT or if it is a problem.

Is anyone else experiencing this or should I just ease up a bit?

Kenn · #6 Post by **Kenn** » Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:26 pm

I don't know if IBM does this, but a lot of laptops using SXGA+ and higher have Windows Display properties set to "Large DPI" which makes things look goofy, especially since the scaling is quite imperfect. Give that a check.

jephhy · #7 Post by **jephhy** » Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:38 pm

I just received my 3UU today as well and the screen is sharp. Double check that resolution is set for 1400x1050, the display DPI is 96 and that ClearType is turned off. You should be able to find all these settings in the Display properties, Appearance and Setting tabs.

Jeff

Chun-Yu · #8 Post by **Chun-Yu** » Tue Jun 29, 2004 2:06 am

:O Someone who doesn't like ClearType?!?

ian · #9 Post by **ian** » Tue Jun 29, 2004 2:43 am

I realise this thread is relative to the 14" model, but I couldn't resist chiming in - I received my 2373-CWU 15" yesterday and I'm blown out by the screen - I've recently started wearing glasses to read, AND use my (work provided) HP pavilion 15" at 1024 x 768 - but at the native resolution of 1400 x 1050 I can read every [censored] thing - from just about any angle.

The keyboard is rigid, no flex, the mating surfaces mate - no bends or unsightly gaps - the fan, if there is one, doesn't seem to want to work too often (takes after it's owner there) - there are no dead pixies, sorry pixels and I'm having a ball (well, aside from a tiny problem of a memory stick...)

#10 Post by **BillMorrow** » Tue Jun 29, 2004 3:27 am

glad to see everyone is pleased with their new thinkpad..
for the most part, that is..

ian's memory problem might not be a problem and even so its under lifetime warranty..

Bobert · #11 Post by **Bobert** » Tue Jun 29, 2004 9:32 am

jephhy wrote:I just received my 3UU today as well and the screen is sharp. Double check that resolution is set for 1400x1050, the display DPI is 96 and that ClearType is turned off. You should be able to find all these settings in the Display properties, Appearance and Setting tabs.

Jeff

Thanks Jeff!! I did not have the resolution at 1400x1050. Now it is crystal clear and everything seems to be working perfectly, now!!

Thanks!

mattfromomaha · #12 Post by **mattfromomaha** » Sat Jul 03, 2004 12:31 pm

I'm thinking about moving from my T30 to a T42, but am not sure about which 14" screen to get, the XGA or SXGA. I currently run 1024x768 on my T30 and can read everything perfectly. Will the fonts get much smaller if I go to the better screen and higher resolution?

akerman · #13 Post by **akerman** » Sat Jul 03, 2004 1:05 pm

just to clear up:
SVGA: 800x600
XGA: 1024x768
SXGA: 1280x1024 (5:4)
SXGA+: 1400x1050