Should I get a thinkpad for djing?

[ltr]

Hi, I have this question basically.

I bought a t400 in 2009; I used it for djing, and I loved it. But eventually got some serious problems:

1) The plastic thing from the USB ports broke in 2 of them (after 2 years I think)
2) Right screen hinge BROKE after 3 years. This was unexpected, but the metal thing broke.
3) Ventilation Fan doesn't turn on sometimes. Sometimes, I get a warning message on boot and I can't turn it on. This happened after 3 years I think.


Maybe my problems are related to heavy usage (specially the usb one, as a DJ I have to connnect and disconnect stuff many times). The thing is that I still LOVE these machines (pre 430 of course, I wont be using those weird new keyboards) and I don't see myself getting any other brand.

I want to upgrade, I want a stronger computer with a gpu (I'll be video djing too, so this is a must), but I'm not sure if the problems listed above will occur to me again, and since I'll be getting a used one (maybe here?), I don't want to experience them after 1 year of my purchase.

So, what you'd suggest?

[RealBlackStuff]

Welcome to the forum.
Whichever laptop you get, I suggest you use an external USB hub, like this: http://www.ebay.com/itm/301181802669
Overuse or abuse of the laptop USB ports will cause the plastic pieces to break eventually.
If you are handy in DIY and can use a soldering iron, you can replace those ports.
You can also replace the hinge(s) yourself.
Finally: the fan most likely needs to be either cleaned or replaced, and the thermal paste cleaned/renewed at the same time.

I happen to have a nice T500 with switchable graphics for sale: http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=113607
How its USB ports survive is purely depending on you. Use a hub: longer life!

If you are rough all the time, then I can only recommend to get a Panasonic Toughbook (expensive though, even when used).

[Ole]

Might not be of value, but just wanted to let you know that I've been using my W500 for Ableton Live running multiple backing tracks and VST's for live performance the last 2 years. It's never let me down, even though my screen now has liquor stains on it after a gigging in the more uncivilized areas of Norway. My only troubles was with sound cards from MOTU, their drivers just doesn't do a good job at working with Windows. However, switched to a usb card and it's been no troubles ever since!

[twistero]

Using a USB hub for audio equipment is generally not a good idea because of potential latency problems.

For the OP: Problems 2 and 3 can be fixed if you wish simply by replacing the relevant parts. I'm not familiar with T400, but on a T60/61 some USB ports are on daughter cards which can also be replaced easily.

[Saucey]

I believe the T400 has one replaceable USB daughter card, there are two on the left.

But I would just use an express card that has USB ports.

[ltr]

Thank you all for your answers.

Yes, I'd prefer not to have to depend on a hub. I'd like to keep it as simple as possible (since I only connect 2 devices, there's really no big need for a hub).

I know I could fix the stuff that broke, but since I live in Argentina and importation is kinda tricky and expensive, parts are not easily available. I've asked for hinges and fan, and either they are too expensive (like 50us dollars) or simply don't have em. (Should I go for ebay for parts?)


But anyways, I do want to upgrade my computer and get one with a gpu, so the question remains: is it a good decision to get , for example, a used t420 with switchable graphics? Or are they even weaker and prune to problems like the ones I had with my t400.

[Cigarguy]

Upgrading to a newer laptop will definitey bring speed and power improvement but nothing will help how the USB ports are used. No matter what you get, all will be vulnerable to being damaged just like your old one.

[Temetka]

If you leave the laptop in your rig, go for it.

If you use it for other things, maybe an express card USB adapter and powered hub.

The reason I ask about the rig, is a lot of cabinets can hold a laptop just fine. Leave it in there with everything plugged in and strapped down and you should be good to go.