Replacement Dell 1420

I was issued a replacement Dell 1420 through my university's Dell outlet, after my original 1420 had a multitude of problems. It took them more than a month to get the new laptop from Dell, and I just got it today.

My problem is, I feel like my laptop is almost downgraded, and I want your opinions. I paid extra and waited longer to get the Santa Rosa (Centrino Duo) processor chip, which was a: Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T7300 (2.0GHz/800Mhz FSB/4MB cache).

I now have a Core 2 Duo CPU with 2.10 Ghz/800 mhz/ and a 3MB cache, and its model # is T8100. I have 3 GB of ram now instead of 2 GB, and I used to have an integrated webcam, but not anymore. My Windows score used to be a 3.7 on my old laptop, and its a 3.0 know. They gave me more hard drive space, as I used to have a 160 GB and now I have a 320 GB Hard Drive.

Did they downgrade my laptop with the processor or what? The laptop is not refurbished, its completely new.

 

the P8100 beats the T7300. It's a shame you lost the webcam but it's a much better computer... does it have the same graphics card? you could update your drivers too. I'm guessing that it's one of the graphics setting that's holding back the windows score, but really, windows score means nothing

 

The T8100 uses Intel's new high-K process, which should dramatically reduce current losses by essentially improving electrical insulating properties.
Since both heat and wasted power are key factors for notebook computers, I would say the t8100 is better.
Also the 8XXX series are 45nm vs the T7300 is 65nm

You weren't downgraded

 

I think you got a nice replacement & you were not downgraded!


Cin

 

Haha that makes me feel alot better then. Personally I think I might just miss my white Centrino Duo sticker . Yeah its the same graphics card, but the thing holding the score back is the processor and the memory (scores of 3 each).

I dunno why they took my camera away though Is it still an option on the new 1420s? I looked online and it looks like it isn't.

 

Yeah, you should be fine! I just did a quick config', and on the US site...the Web cam option isnt' availi


Cin

 

I think they might have downgraded my sound card, because I used to have a Integrated Sound Blaster® Audigy™HD Software Edition, and now I have SigmaTel High Definition Audio? That is the standard isn't it?

 

My sister has a 1420 that is a few years old.
I think it's actually good that you were "downgraded" to the Sigmatel Hi Def Audio Codec. That is the standard on the 1420 these days.
I got Soundblaster Audigy HD Software Edition on my new Studio 15, with an IDT Hi Def Audio Codec. Most people here say that the Soundblaster isn't worth the price, as it is just software, its not a better soundcard or anything like that. Plus, people have reported much better volume with the standard Audio vs The Soundblaster software on the Studio 15. So, I wouldn't worry about it.

 

So you don't think its worth trying to get added?

 

Unless you are really into music and want to have settings like an equalizer, EAX effects, etc, then nah, you don't really need it. Especially since it's only a software package add-on, as opposed to enhanced hardware.

 

Oh okay haha I didn't realize it was only a software upgrade, not a hardware upgrade.

 

One more question guys, if it is indeed software, could I just get the CD from Dell and install it?

 

I believe you can get it from Dell. But if, you try to get it added to your replacement order...even if it's software, it will cause your order to be cancelled and a new one recreated.

Call and see if they can ship this to you separately!

Cin

 

I already have my replacement haha, so they can't cancel it . Also, since they took it away, do you guys think I could get anything to replace my integrated webcam?