Thinkpads Forum

kjjb0204 in another thread wrote:general announce date for T, X, Z series core 2 duo models is 10/17

I was initially considering getting one of these new T's once they're announced, but then a friend of mine recommended waiting till January when new technologies like hybrid hard drives and Windows Vista would be available.

However, it seems like it might be better to go with a platform that has been proven, instead of getting a machine with untested new technology. And although the benefits of a hybrid drive seem significant, I'd rather not get the very first run. Once they do come out and are somewhat established, it should be easy to put a hybrid drive in a T60, right? I'm assuming they'll use the same form factor as present laptop drives. (If Windows Vista requires a special chipset or something to use them, though, then I guess that would be a problem.)

Also I'd rather upgrade to Windows Vista once it's had the kinks worked out, instead of buying a laptop preloaded with it.

Given that this isn't an urgent upgrade, would you say it's better to get a T60 now, or to wait and buy a laptop with new technology around January? I would like to get the machine kind of soon, and I want it to be future-proof -- I'd like to use it for around four years or so. To that end, I'll be configuring it with the highest specs.

(Another question I had was, should I get the extended Ultrabay battery? Given the issues people seem to be having with it, would it be better for me to not spend my money on it? Since I should get about 4 to 5 hours from the 9-cell, that might be enough, although I can always do with more battery life.)

My guess is it's unlikely you'll be able to buy a laptop in January of 07 with Vista installed, now if you're talking 08 then yes most likely you'll be able to get it then.

Vista is not ready for an environment where work needs to be done, in a secure setting, IMHO. I don't know how much you like to tinker, download BIOS upgrades and install drivers. If you've got the time to do this and enjoy doing it, then yes wait till the fall of 07 and get your laptop. Or get a T60 and run the RC1 now.

Otherwise buy now, install vista in the summer of 08, and look to replace it by 10.

When an new operating system is ready to come out there are free "upgrade" coupons for the new OS. This may happen soon enough.

I suppose my friend was a little optimistic about how soon Vista would be available and viable... I think I'll go with one of the Core 2 Duo models to be announced on the 17th.

Still wondering about the Ultrabay battery...

CarrerCrytharis wrote:...should I get the extended Ultrabay battery? Given the issues people seem to be having with it...

There are no ssues with "it", if the pronoun refers to original product from IBM/Lenovo. The Ultrabay battery will provide additional time proportionate to its power capacity -- no more, no less, and no fuss.

Note: People who do not like the aesthetics and/or ergonomics of the 9-cell battery often opt for the combination of 6-cell + Ultrabay batteries.

EOMtp wrote:

CarrerCrytharis wrote:...should I get the extended Ultrabay battery? Given the issues people seem to be having with it...

There are no ssues with "it", if the pronoun refers to original product from IBM/Lenovo. The Ultrabay battery will provide additional time proportionate to its power capacity -- no more, no less, and no fuss.

Note: People who do not like the aesthetics and/or ergonomics of the 9-cell battery often opt for the combination of 6-cell + Ultrabay batteries.

I was talking mainly about this thread: http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?t=28617. It seems like some batteries are losing their capacity very rapidly. This is something I'd rather not deal with.

If it's more of an isolated problem, then I should be fine. If it's a widespread problem, then it might be safer to just go with the 9-cell.

Vista will be out in December

Actually, I think I read that Vista will be available to consumers in January. It will be available to businesses in November. I also read that computers bought after a certain time (November?) will get stickers for a free upgrade to Vista when it becomes available. I would double-check on this item to see if it is true for any computer you plan to purchase.

EDIT: Here is information on the upgrade coupons: Microsoft Plans Vista Upgrade Coupon For Holiday PC Buying Season.

GomJabbar wrote:Actually, I think I read that Vista will be available to consumers in January. It will be available to businesses in November. I also read that computers bought after a certain time (November?) will get stickers for a free upgrade to Vista when it becomes available. I would double-check on this item to see if it is true for any computer you plan to purchase.

EDIT: Here is information on the upgrade coupons: Microsoft Plans Vista Upgrade Coupon For Holiday PC Buying Season.

Hi,

the coupons will apply on the date of purchase (from oct 26 to march of 2007) or by the SKU number of your installation of windows xp pro?????