Laptop Computer for CAD/CAM

[junglist]

Hi,

I am looking to buy a laptop powerful enough to run Autocabinets, Enroute 4 & Solidworks 2006.

In addition it needs to be compact & portable as I commute by subway & bike.

I know the small screen size will not be ideal but I will do the bulk of my work on my desktop computer. The goal is to extend my working day somewhat & be able to do some visual presentations for customers. For doing customer presentations outside the office I would like to be able to hook up to a larger monitor.

Any reccomendations?


Thanks

[MCPservice]

I have used a 17" Toshiba, 4gb,350GB, dual core with a separate graphics card. That should be more then enough power to get thru everything you are trying to throw at it...and won't cost you a arm and a leg. 3d rendering should not be a problem with this setup.

[junglist]

Do you think I could get the same power on something a little smaller ? I was thinking my max size would be 15 inch. Just for ease of portabilty, like I said when I am at a desk I can easily connect to a larger monitor.

thanks

[zool]

Go for the 17", it is only a pound or two more. Get wider straps on the bag you carry it in.

I have an older Alienware notebook I use in a similar situation and the 17" monitor is a life saver...well, eye saver.

Remember, clients generally are older, and probably have bifocals, and they will like the 17' monitor as well.

You do want to make you clients happy, don't you?!

[junglist]

point taken

[junglist]

How do you like Alienware?? Someone else reccomended them to me to.

[MCPservice]

Alienware, is a great machine, but maybe just a tad more then you need. Check Toshiba, or Sony website, they normally have a clearance area that you can get a great deal and the specs that will handle it all...and even be able to do some gaming if you like.