Need Help re Laptop Spec

GunJack

As an example of the pcworld refurbs, have a look at this....

http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/store/pcw_page.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@0487096600.1213225649@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccchadeegehmjdjcflgceggdhhmdgml.0&page=Product&fm=null&sm=null&tm=null&sku=959900&category_oid=-28487

GunJack

...and this one has a firewire port

http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/store/pcw_page.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@0487096600.1213225649@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccchadeegehmjdjcflgceggdhhmdgml.0&page=Product&fm=null&sm=null&tm=null&sku=470235&category_oid=-28487#productInformationSection

albertross_2

Is it a digital camcorder, mini DV tapes etc? They tend to have a firewire out (DVD sort of quality), possibly a usb out (read the camera manual to see if this can be used to transfer the movie digitally, and at what quality), as well as svideo/composite VCR quality, but no use for the laptop without buying an add-on.

if it is part of his requirement, and the camcorder is firewire, you may as well look for a firewire able laptop, but another alternative is to use a deskop pc card (about a tenner) if you have a desktop.

GunJack

...firewire one out of stock - they must have flown out at that price...still, sure you'll find something there that will do the job under £300...best off with a dual-core, esp. at those prices.

Ms_Chocaholic

albertross wrote: »

Is it a digital camcorder, mini DV tapes etc? They tend to have a firewire out (DVD sort of quality), possibly a usb out (read the camera manual to see if this can be used to transfer the movie digitally, and at what quality), as well as svideo/composite VCR quality, but no use for the laptop without buying an add-on.

if it is part of his requirement, and the camcorder is firewire, you may as well look for a firewire able laptop, but another alternative is to use a deskop pc card (about a tenner) if you have a desktop.

Yes it is a digital camcorder that uses mini DV tapes, it's a Canon one.

Thank you to everyone for all their replies - although I am confused slightly!

I think I'd prefer a new machine rather than a refurbished one, particularly given that it is a gift.

Could I buy a laptop now that has XP on it rather than Vista?

Thanks

Ms C xx

Anthillmob

Tech_guy wrote: »

The XP from the old kaput machine can be used on the new laptop.

Probably not I'm afraid, they're usually OEM which are tied to the original laptop... although if you have a stand alone XP disc (not a recovery CD) you may get the licence re-activated if you call Microsoft direct.. but don't hold your breath.

GunJack

Ms Choc - my recently purchased "refurb" is as good as new - nothing about it smacks of "second-hand", and the warranty is for 12 months, just as with a brand new machine.

In fact, to get a machine with xp rather than vista, you will probably have to either pay a premium or find a refurb with xp installed....I know which way I would (and did) go