Laptop Suggestions

[Paul Lussier]

"Kenneth E. Lussier" <klussier at comcast.net> writes:

> Howdy all,
>
> I'm looking for an extremely Linux-friendly laptop to set up as a
> traveling demo system. The laptop has to have a wireless card, as I will
> need it to run in ad-hoc mode so that it can act as a wireless AP for
> other devices.
>
> The system is going to serve DHCP and tftp to wireless devices and act
> as their central point. 
>
> All suggestions are welcome. I'm currently looking at
> http://www.emperorlinux.com for pre-installed linux laptops, but if a
> thinkpad/dell/gateway/whatever is best, then that's what I'll go with 

I've never heard anything bad about Thinkpads (the older IBM ones,
I've heard nothing about the Lenovos).

I've had no good experiences with Dell laptops (or anything else Dell)
over the past 2 years.  They've traded quality of manufacture for
rapid-response of on-site repair monkey.  Evidently monkeys are
cheaper than good quality plastic.  (Must have something to do with
the relatively cheap cost of bananas vs. the high cost of petroleum
derivatives).

Depending upon the situation, I might well be inclined to buy a system
from one of the Linux vendors just to vote with my feet so to speak.
I would almost certainly blow away and re-install anything they
shipped me, but I would pay for the installation/support from them
strictly *because* they offer it, vs. buying a Dell from Dell, etc.

Just my 2 sheckles worth.

-- 

Seeya,
Paul