Precision M4500 help :)

I plan on purchasing one in the next week, either refurb or new. Primary use is photoshop and I need help with specs.

For display:
15.6" FHD LED Back-Lit Display (1920x1080) Resolution

Options for processor:
Intel® CoreTM i7X (940XM)
Intel® CoreTM i7 (840QM, 740QM, 640M)
Intel® CoreTM i5 (580M, 560M, 520M)

Video Card:
NVIDIA® Quadro FX 880M Graphics with 1GB dedicated memory
NVIDIA® Quadro FX 1800M Graphics with 1GB dedicated memory

Also:
How many gb's of ram should I get total?
From Dell? Then add later?

Thanks alot
Also is it worth waiting for the SB models? I know Dell CES is supposed to be tomorrow, but if I can save money and buy this machine I prefer that.

 

If you absolutely need one, then go buy it. But if you can wait a few weeks, I would. Even if you don't buy SB, it will drop the prices of all the older models where it would be a better deal.

 

I did the core i7 mid grade CPU and the 1800m with 8th of ram. It handles photoshop cs5 easily. I strongly suggest picking up a ssd though, that is a very noticeable upgrade.

 

okay, still need help with specs if I do decide not to get SB model

 

I would buy the higher end GPU from Dell. RAM/HDD you can always switch out later, they are a dime a dozen. CPU is debatable, it really boils down to pricing. Best value is going to be the i7-740QM without spending an arm and a leg. You could always upgrade the CPU later also.

 

Thank you for the input

I didn't know the processor could be upgraded I'm liking this computer more and more. Thanks.

 

Hey, sorry I'm not quite following - SB = small business right? Is something happening (or is anticipated to happen) in a few weeks which may drop the pricing?

 

SB = Sandy Bridge, the new Intel CPU architecture. Not compatible with the (older) Clarksfield and Arrandale Core-i series, however.