V13 and VMware

Hey all,

Just curious, would the V13 with lowest processor be able to run a XP VM (w/ VMware) fine? Does anyone do this? I am a bit worried with 1.3GHz and 2gb RAM, but the under $450 price tag is making me hope it would work... Do you think that the dual core would help this at all? I mean, I would still have the 2gb RAM limitation even with that.

Otherwise, what would you suggest? I would like to keep my purchase under $500 and 13in class business laptops preferred. I don't mind buying from Outlet (I prefer it). I was thinking (hoping) that worst case scenario I haggle Dell on the 3300 or a new v13, or vostro 1320, but I HIGHLY doubt I can get them down that much.

Confused and want my new laptop, but there are so many options...

 

Yes, it would be able to run XP in VMware. It won't scream, but depending on what you are going to do it should work for you.

 

or run windows 7 and run XP Mode, which is basically a XP Pro SP3 running in microsoft virtual PC under windows 7.

Have tested it on machines with Pentium M 1.6ghz and 2gb RAM without any issues.

 

That would be great if I didn't already have VMs set up and the class I'm in revolves around VMware since that's what most business use.

I appreciate the replies guys. I am just going to get the V13 w/ Celeron and if it doesn't work I can always return it for an upgrade.

 

With a Celeron?? You should get a Core 2 Duo, at the very least...

 

Trust me, I know that, BUT I know someone who was running it on a netbook so... I figured it was worth the shot, and if it doesn't work out I can return it to get a different one, so I'm not too worried I guess...

Maybe I'll get one of those E4300

 

The low end processors on the V13 do not support virtualization. That means that XP Mode will not work.

VMWare might work, but without hardware virtualization it will run slower. If you do stuff like that on a regular basis, you need to get the SU7300 which supports virtualization.

Considering the cost of the higher end models, you might want to look into the E4300 which is a much more powerful machine if you need/want some of the extra features. Dell Outlet's E4300 would be something to consider.

 

There was a 15% off E4300 coupon for the Outlet yesterday if it hasn't already expired.

 

XP Mode works w/out virtualization now actually, but I am guessing it will run pretty slow. I am definitely returning this computer though. It's a scratch and dent, which they said it wasn't when I ordered. and the keyboard has a lot of flex, and it seems that the chassis is twisted... one corner is off the table.

Just running a few tabs in IE is taking up 32% of my RAM, so I can't imagine running a VM as well... It was worth a shot though, and it is a pretty sweet laptop as far as the size and portability goes.

Oddly enough, I was looking at the E4300, and I am pretty sure that is what I am going with. I just have to see if there is anyway to speed up the return process...

I appreciate the help guys.