This week I got the notebook I ordered from Dell. It is a Dell Inspiron 600m, a cheaper model intended to hold me over until I upgrade my desktop computer. As a computer professional I like to upgrade my hardware every three to four years to stay current with trends. I’m due for a new desktop but am waiting until Microsoft releases Windows Vista, its next version of the Windows operating system, sometime next year. That way I can upgrade my PC and its operating system at the same time.

Shiny New Dell Inspiron 600m

Another Look at the Dell

The first thing I did when I got my notebook was to uninstall all the bologna that Dell loaded onto it. I removed every trial program and unnecessary software package I could using the Add/Remove program control panel program. But I still got a nag screen from QuickBooks. Grr. I’m going to dig into the system this weekend to remove every trace of it.

Overall, I am pleased with the notebook. The keyboard is as wide as screen, i.e. 14 inches. After using a full-sized keyboard like the Microsoft Natural Keyboard, the notebook’s keyboard feels tiny and cramped. The screen is crisp and bright esp after turning on ClearType.

As you can see I added a wireless notebook mouse . It is a Logitech V200 Cordless Optical Notebook Mouse. I am pleased with its performance. It tracks very well with no noticable lag. Also, it micro-receiver snaps onto the bottom of the mouse for easy storage.

Tom Gets a Dell