Thinkpad newbie...T60 with ATI x1300 but 1024x768 only?

[jagged]

Hello everyone!

I've been using an HP DV1000 as my work PC since last year and planning to upgrade it soon with a T60 as I don't feel very secure using the HP as a business computer. I got it mainly for its low price and I never used any of its multimedia features at all since last year.

I'm never had a Thinkpad before but I'm looking for a PC with Win XP Pro, Gigabit LAN, and with docking port option. There are many options out there but I don't mind spending a small premium on the T60 because I find its durability, quality finish, and extra security features attractive.

I'll be getting one next week in Hongkokngbut I'm confused with the display specs.

Here's a link to the list of T-series notebooks offered in HK...
http://www-604.ibm.com/webapp/wcs/store ... Id=2056940

The model I'm particularly interested in is the 20074UH and listed specs are:
- Intel T2400 Core Duo processor
- 512MB RAM
- 80GB HD 5400RPM
- DVD writer
- 14.1" screen with ATI X1300 64MB video card &
- 1024x768 resolution (???)

Is there a possiblity that there was a typo in the advertised resolution size? If you look at the list, most of the lower T60 models there have 1400x1050 resolution. Also, comparing the Hongkong T60 list with the US', I notice that T60's in the US with ATI X1300 card all come with 1400x1050 resolution.

Here's the link to the US T-series list...
http://www-131.ibm.com/webapp/wcs/store ... tptvam_tab

Honestly, I don't mind having a maximum 1024x768 resolution since with my current DV1000, 1280x768 (wide screen) is very good for me already and anything more will probably make text look too small for my eyes.

However, I'm concerned with the display quality. Since the T60 I'm looking at has an external video card, I'm wondering if there will be an improvement over my DV1000 (Intel 900).

What do you think guys? I'll be going to HK next week for business and I only have 1 afternoon free to decide and pickup a new computer so I need some advice. Thanks so much for your feedback!!!

[jagged]

Here a link to the detailed specs of the particular T60 I'm considering...

http://www-604.ibm.com/webapp/wcs/store ... logId=-344

This is what it says on the display and graphics subsystem part...

Display/Monitor
External display supported Yes
Simultaneous external display Yes
Screen Type Description TFT
Viewable Image Size (Diagonal) Inches 14.1
Screen Illumination Backlit
Grey Shades or Colours Max Built in Screen 16777216
Maximum Resolution 1024x768

Graphics Subsystem
Video RAM std. / max. 64MB
Description ATI Mobility Radeon X1300
Type SXGA
Video RAM type DDR2 SDRAM
Max resolution (with max video RAM) 2048x1536 16777216 colours
Maximum Simultaneous Colours 16777216
Graphics bus interface PCI Express
Video on Planar Yes

It says that dispaly max res. is 1024x768 but graphic subsystem type is SXGA with max res. of 2048x1536.

Will this particular T60 model's screen clarity will probably be the same as a T60 with 1400x1050 display?

[lithium726]

http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... ry=20074UH+

unfortunatly, that model does have an XGA screen. if you want the SXGA+, youre going to have to get a different model.

how about the 20074AH?

http://www-604.ibm.com/webapp/wcs/store ... logId=-344

[jagged]

Yah, that should be ok too. Just that the 80GB HD and DVD recorder (although I hardly use) would be a nice addition.

Its strange that HK market doesnt offer similar specd 20074UH with SXGA+ display. The next higher model is too expensive for my taste (like HK$10k or more than US$1000).

I will compare both 20074CH (similar to 20074UH but with bluetooth) and 20074UH when I go there and if display quality is noticeable enough, I will go with model with SXGA+ screen despite the smaller HD size and DVD/CRDW drive.

Please correct me if I'm wrong. I think those 2 features can be upgraded later but changing display will be a big hassle right?

[sugo]

I think those 2 features can be upgraded later but changing display will be a big hassle right?

That's right.