E1505 on the way

I just purchased my first laptop and need some things answered:

1. I have a network setup (with help from different forums) so when I get my E1505 can someone give me specific instructions on how I connect it to the network?

2. I could only afford the X1300 video card can I sometime in the future upgrade to the X1400 card from Dell?

3. I'm sure I will probably like the E1505 since never having had a laptop before I wouldn't have anything to compare it to, but in case I don't can it be returned in a certain amount of time? If so would I get a full refund?

4. I purchased a 4 year warranty, can I feel assured it will cover just about everything, harddrive etc. short of me dropping it or spilling something in it (didn't get accident coverage)? If my harddrive goes out within 4 years along with Dell replacing it will they also reinstall Vista for me?

 

1.) just go to the Newworking thread, they have a great guide.
2.) probably not. as far as I can recall the e1505 is not MXM. but perhaps. your best bet is to call dell and ask them.
3.) yes it can be returned(I think its within 30 days) you probably won't get a full refund, they ususally charge restocking fees.
4.)probably, though it's not unheard of for dell to try and charge you for cetain parts/problems.

 

I highly recommend getting Complete Care coverage when you can afford it. No matter how careful you are Murphy's Law will kick in eventually.

According to the onsite tech that came out to fix my E1505 the graphics can be upgraded. This has to be done by a Dell certified tech or it will void your warranty. You can pick up the x1400 graphics "module" as Dell calls it on EBay and probably some online retailers. Then you have to get it installed. I guess you could do it yourself and just hang on to the x1300. If you have any issues just put the x1300 back in before you get it serviced.

I have to admit the service manual is pretty thorough and you can replace every component without too much effort. I just got rid of the 1390 mini-card and installed the Intel 3945 ABG card last weekend. Hmm would that qualify as an upgrade?...lol I think I'll hang on to it incase I ever need to get it serviced.

 

of course you can get the x1400 later, but you can't get any other gfx card that are not on the original list to choose from.

 

1) if you have a wired network then just plug n play . If wireless then search, connect and play . Either ways it is very easy. If you need help you can always come back here and post.

2) Most probably yes, since X1400 is also offered as an option. But upgrading later is not cost effective, this thread discusses the same issue; as you can see, $230 and perhaps the risk of loosing warranty is not worth the performance gain.

3) Sorry, I cant help you with that since I don’t know much about DELL US return policies.

4) Yes, but ONLY if you selected Complete Care option. Otherwise it will not cover accidental damages.