Thinking of getting a T61(p)... but custom build in UK???

[ateece]

Hi,
I'm a very happy Thinkpad user ticking along on a T43 but in desperate need of more power!

So, obviously the only way to go is a T61, possibly a T61p. But I notice a lot of people talking about custom builds. I've looked at the state-side Lenovo site and see how they do it. Does anyone know if this is available to the UK?

There is a bewildering array of models available in the UK. Some of them are actually identical (at least the specification details are, prices aren't!). But I cannot find that absolutely perfect fit.

Also, US seems to have SSDs available as an option, but in the UK only the x300 has an SSD Not to mention UWB for $30!!! Certainly no mention of that in the UK, don't know what I would do with it but it would be nice to throw in "just in case".

Finally, does anyone know about any "refreshes" due? From my knowledge Intel CPUs and Chipsets are pretty stable ATM, nothing exciting is due. Wireless cards can now have 802.11n too which is great. Only thing that would be nice is Blu-Ray, but I suppose I could swap-out the ultrabay when it does surface as an option.

Any advice? UK certainly seems to be getting a rough deal!

[andyP]

Hi,

..snip
Any advice? UK certainly seems to be getting a rough deal!

It's not just the UK, it's just how it works in Europe. If you are a company looking at spending around €40K+ you can start talking about CTOs.

It's pobably easiest to pick a system that is as near to perfect as you can get and make changes afterwards if necessary.

I'm seeing the 6457-BQG, which has almost everything, being offered at some very competetive prices. It also has UMTS

UWB isn't available in Europe at the moment.

edit: better link + umts

[arlab]

Buy a Thinkpad from the USA.