What are the key items to get with a laptop, and nVidia question.

I need to get a laptop for my job, and they have given me some money to get one. I wouldn't mind spending a little extra for a few items I want.

I guess my biggest question is just how easy is it to modify these laptops? I've never owned one. Is it easy to open it up and drop in some more Ram or swap out graphics cards?

Also, what are the things I simply have to have with a new laptop, or at least that you strongly recommend.

I'd like to get a decent laptop with a GeForce FX Go5600, but I have yet to see them offered at Dell. Does anyone know when these cards will be bundled?

The laptop will be used for Microsoft Office Applications, games, and as a DVD player on the go.

Thank You!

Think of the laptop as a closed box. Components are soldered to proprietary boards. The only user accessible items are socketed with easy access - memory, hard drive, multibay, pccard slots, . . .

With rare exceptions, video cards are not upgradeable. The only one that I've heard of is on some models of Dell.

The essential accessories depend on how you will be using the machine.

A DVD/CDRW drive is handy for entertainment when traveling and so you can carry extra data with you. Laptop disk drives are relatively small by todays standards (40GB to 60GB). Also you'll want the comm gear that matches your method of operation - NIC, modem, wireless, . . .

If you'll be traveling an extra battery, an airplane/auto adapter, an extra wall power adapter is nice to keep with your travel kit. Don't forget plug converters for each country you visit. I recommend a 5 pound or lighter box if you will be carrying it around much of the day. That extra 2 or 3 pounds get very heavy by the end of the day. If you must leave the laptop unattended you'll want a security cable. Finally you'll need a good case.

I never found a printer useful for traveling. Most hotels have a business center with a printer you can access. Otherwise I simply faxed material to myself at the place I was staying.

If you have any other questions, PM me. I traveled worldwide for more than 10 years carrying a PC.

Thank you for taking the time to reply. I appreciate it.