Possible m15x i want to buy + other questions

I want to spend about $2500 on the laptop off the bat, this is the configuration I'm thinking about:

15.4" WideXGA+ 1440 x 900 LCD (720p) with Clearview Technology
512MB NVIDIA® GeForce® 8800M GTX
Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T8300 2.4GHz
Windows Vista® Home Premium
1GB Dual Channel DDR2 SO-DIMM at 667MHz – 2 x 512MB
120GB 7200RPM (8MB Cache) w/ Free Fall Protection
8x Dual Layer Burner (DVD±RW, CD-RW)
AlienFX® Illuminated Keyboard – Exclusive Design
3-Year AlienCare Toll-Free 24/7 Phone Support w/ Onsite Service
Microsoft® Office Home and Student 2007 – Factory Installed!

TOTAL: $2,572.00

I want to upgrade the ram after I buy it, because I'm poor and its so much cheaper. I was thinking a 2gig stick for around $50 but i have no idea what makes a good stick of ram. Will upgrading the ram myself void the warranty?

Also does anyone have any recommendations for a good case for the laptop, i know it comes with a cloth cover but i want more protection. I dont want a messenger bag, or anything with straps or handles for that matter. I found this case which is like what i want, something that opens completely. I'd prefer if i could use the laptop while it is still in its case yet still be well protected.

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

That case should fit the m15x fine. Upgrading the RAM won't void your warranty. I'd recommend Crucial or Corsair for RAM. The m15x is a bit bigger (and a bit weirder shaped) than the average 15" notebook so it might be hard to find a case that'll cover it and fits decent enough.

 

You'll have no problem changing the Ram and it does not void your warranty. I think you'll be fine with that case. Don't let people scare you the m15x is not as big as everyone thinks. (it is a little bigger though)

 

Nice config. I don't use a laptop case. I carry it in my laptop backpack when I take it to school; it's a lesser hassle carrying it with books and stuff.
And you won't void the warranty if you upgrade the RAM yourself.

 

did you add taxes and shipping to that price yet because if you didnt do that yet you will be quite surprised at your new price.

 

@Dhoang - You may want to start putting it in a sleeve. On the alienware cases, since parts stick out more than other laptop cases, the paint will wear more on them and it will look ugly. Basically the paint is so fine on the M15x that I wouldn't risk having the paint rub off because of the friction.

 

I think that it will be fine for now. I don't have an m15x (yet, anyways!). I just don't want to carry around my books in one bag and another bag case for my laptop. I like convenience more.

haha I'll probably change my mind if I do end up with an 15x. What would you recommend?

 

I am looking for the same type of case...

 

I think I am going to sew myself an own case for my M15x to come.

 

If your short on cash you dont have to get the 3 year warranty right away, but you will have to purchase it before your 1 year warranty runs out so it gives you a year to save up that extra cash

 

would u guys say its worth getting the three year warranty?

 

i would go for at least 2 since you did spend a bit on the laptop. i would rather be safe than sorry :/

 

It all depends on whether you want to keep the notebook for more than a year. If the answer is yes then chose whichever warranty suits you.

 

I would say go for the 2 or 3 year warranty but you have the option to upgrade it later if you want you don't have to do it all at once