Gateway CX210X convertible laptop

[BajaTaco]

Gateway CX210X convertible laptop (http://www.gateway.com/products/GConfig/proddetails.asp?system_id=cx210x&seg=hm) (view the product tour to see the tricks)

Has anyone used this laptop? I am seriously considering it. In a nutshell, here are the base specs:

Intel Core 2 Duo 1.66MHz
1 GB memory
80GB 7200 rpm HD
14" monitor
Double-layer DVD burner
8-cell battery
Integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950I would likely upgrade the memory to 2GB and the HD to 100GB and also get the optional 64MB ATI Mobility Radeon X1400 GPU.

The reason that I am seriously considering this unit because it seems like the best compromise between a rugged laptop and a power-house notebook that I can use for work (media intense and CAD software). While not a rugged unit, it converts to a tablet, which I think will be beneficial for use in the truck. There would be no vibrating loads on the hinges to worry about if I want to use it while driving around. The touch screen would be great for use in the truck. I could also have the option to do my writing and notes using a pen stylus instead of having to type all of the time. The case structure uses a magnesium alloy frame. It has a longer than average battery life, and even has an available 12-cell battery that will go for 5-8 hours with heavy use. For only a 14" screen, it is on the heavy side, weighing in around 7 lbs. Gateway claims to have tested the hinge and deems it reliable for 25,000 open/close cycles. A personal review I found seems to support that saying the hinge is very beefy/sturdy.

Here is a review (http://www.notebookreview.com/default.asp?newsID=3038&review=Gateway+Tablet+PC+Review) on the previous version.

So what do you think?

[BajaTaco]

No comments eh?

I got to see one in person last night and have decided to get one. I need to determine which processor option is best for me (photo editing, web/graphics design, moving maps/sat/aerial maps and likely some 2D cad. Video editing is a possibility but would likely be reserved for a desktop).

Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor T5500 (1.66 GHz, 667MHz FSB, 2MB L2 Cache) [ +US$0.00]
Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor T5600 (1.83 GHz, 667MHz FSB, 2MB L2 Cache) [ +US$50.00]
Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor T7200 (2.00 GHz, 667MHz FSB, 4MB L2 Cache) [ +US$150.00]
Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor T7400 (2.16 GHz, 667MHz FSB, 4MB L2 Cache) [ +US$330.00]I am thinking the 2.00 GHz would be more than enough, but wonder if the 1.66 GHz would work just fine. As a result, my inclination is to go with the 1.83 GHz. Any advice?

Thanks

[BajaTaco]

Well, I have been using this machine for about 3 months and I love it so far. I got the 2.00GHz with 2GB RAM. I finally got the vista upgrade for it but haven't had time to install it.

http://www.bajataco.com/laptop/laptop01.jpg



http://www.bajataco.com/laptop/laptop04.jpg

Unfortunately it had not been on a trip yet with the new RAM mount. I will post more on that after I get a chance to use it. At this point it seems that the RAM Pod III with this heavy of a laptop vibrates too much without adding some kind of brace to the laptop holder.

[Nullifier]

My wife just one last month She loves it.

[1leglance]

thanks for the updates to your own post :)
I am interested in your feedback on the mount setup.
1)interference with pasngr airbag? Turn it off if possible or not an issue?
2) heavy laptop...I have a toughbook I just bought and it is heavy also. I am worried about the bounce factor
3) pasnger room for leg/lap

thanks again for the updates and let us know more as you know it,
enjoy
1leglance

[BajaTaco]

thanks for the updates to your own post :)
I am interested in your feedback on the mount setup.
1)interference with pasngr airbag? Turn it off if possible or not an issue?
2) heavy laptop...I have a toughbook I just bought and it is heavy also. I am worried about the bounce factor
3) pasnger room for leg/lap

thanks again for the updates and let us know more as you know it,
enjoy
1leglance

1. If you leave the swing arms and laptop tray in place, yes it will interfere with the airbag. However, the whole swing-arm & tray assy. can be removed, just leaving the post down by the cupholder.

2. Bounce factor is an issue here. We used the same RAM swing arms and laptop tray in Scott's Tacoma for the arctic trip, but it had a single large diameter pole bolted to the trans. tunnel, and a lighter laptop (12" screen)and it still vibrated on rough roads, but it was acceptable.

3. With the swing-arms/tray removed, there is only the post left there, and it's not bad at all. It's similar to having the slide-out cup holder open with a tall water bottle in it. It might get tiresome for someone with big, heavy legs during a long trip, but it's not too bad. (see attached pic)