Thinking of buying a T61p - Recommendations & Questions.

[CDKUTTNAUER]

This is my first posting...so please bear with me. I am a former IBM'er that still bleeds BLUE and always like to buy the higher end Thinkpads, with high resolution graphics.

I am currently using a T43p and thinking about upgrading to a T61p. The main reason for making the switch is that my 100GB HDD is almost full and there are no large 7200rpm IDE drives out there. Just within the last week, Lenovo introduced new 160GB & 200GB (with data encryption) 7200rpm HDD's.

A couple of technical questions that Lenovo sales reps have not been able to answer very well:

1. My tech support guy says that buying a HDD with data encryption is risky if you have a HDD failure due to the key will not be available. The data encryption can not be turned off. Do you see a data recovery issue with this type HDD?

2. If you install the Intel Turbo Memory will you not be able to add a Cingular or Verizon card in the future (there is an warning message on Wireless WAN feature incompatible). This has nothing to do with WiFi, correct?

3. I currently use my T43p in a Port Replicator II, in an IBM Monitor Stand (the older but very solid one). I attached 2 DVI's LCD monitors, using 1 DVI from the Port Replicator and another one using an iVillage PCMIA card. It appears that the Port Replicator & power supply are different on the T61p. Is this correct? Then what Port Replicator or Docking Station would be recommended?

4. This will probably cause a lot of debate...I have been advised by many to avoid Vista and stick with XP Pro. Thoughts?

5. Which would you recommend, WSXGA+ or WUXGA? I am thinking about the 15.4" model. I like the high graphics. Currently on on my 14.1" T43p my resolution is set for 1600 x 1200 with my LCD's.

6. Any other major differences between the T43p and T61p in my current configuration?

Thanks so much for your input. Moving to a new laptop is like moving your house and getting all settled. So, I want to make the right choices.[/list]