What kind of spec do I need? (laptop)

NickiM

Up until recently I had this laptop - http://reviews.cnet.com/laptops/acer-travelmate-4060/4505-3121_7-31580918.html

However, recently, it broke and the repairer deemed it unrepairable.

I am looking at laptops, but don't really get laptop specifications and things, or what would be suited for me.

I don't need it for games/graphics, just for word processing (university work), surfing the internet, general use. I know I'd quite like a big screen - 17 inches, but could compromise. I'd also like a long battery life, the Acer above, at best lasted an hour without the battery back and by the end about 30 minutes. Oh, and it has to be able to have wireless internet.

I have no idea about technical spec, things like processors (what is 'normal'?), hard-drives etc.

Can anyone help?

Thanks.

NickiM

Something to do with the board - I don't know exactly, I'll find out this week. But I took it to some reputable repairers (small, local company) where I bought the Acer from, so I do trust their judgement.

When I took it in, it wouldn't turn on/do anything.