X40 questions before buying

[lanes]

I am getting my X40 2382HCU in a couple of days now, but I have a couple of questions before I purchase the machine:

1. The system has 512 standard, I am going to upgrade it to 1024. Will I then get one chip with 1024 or two with 512 each?

2. Does the X4 docking come with this model? It comes with a CD/DVD...

3. Can the CD/DVD drive be used without the X4 docking? Cable to the USB port or something similar?

4. Is this model likely to be upgraded sometime in near future? (...) Should I wait?

5. I am ditching my Dell Latitude D600 (1.6GHz, 2x256, 5200rpm, 32MB Radeon9000). Will I notice a loss in performance with my new X40 (1.4, 1024, 4200)??

Cheers!

[phr]

Type the model number (2382hcu) into google and you should find the config info right away. But if you don't know this info already, why are you buying the machine?

512mb base means 512mb of memory is soldered to the board. There is only one ram expansion slot in an x40 so it will have a 512mb sodimm in it.

The ultrabay cd drive is not a usb drive. If you want a usb external drive, buy one.

Every model of any computer will be upgraded in the near future. That's one thing that never changes. If you want a machine now, buy now. If you want it later, it's better to wait.

[htorres]

I just ordered the same x40 ....2382HCU...how is yours working out? What are you using the machine for primarily? I was going to wait a little longer to purchase but i figured i would always be waiting for the next upgrade....besides...i am not sure just how the Lenovo deal is going to impact the release of any new thinkpad models....any thoughts?

[DavidNZ]

I don't have the exact machine, but I've got an X40 into which I slipped an additional 256MB of RAM (so 512 total) and use an external CD-RW burner. I rarely use the CD or the burning functions that it has. I got it primarily to install software when necessary and it was cheap (NZ$120). Plus, my wife can burn photos when she wants.

I didn't opt for the dock, simply because I currently use a 15" Dell LCD and a Dell USB keyboard. Everything works fine.

I use mine primarily for Office applications, although I do use Illustrator 10 and Photoshop 7 on it - sure it's slow because of the slower hard drive, but it's certainly useable. As for games, can't comment as I don't have any on it.

The portability, though, is fantastic.

You'll enjoy your purchase I'm sure!