inspiron 6400/e1505 questions

i'm now considering this notebook and just wanted to ask a few questions

1. does the core 2 duo have any disadvantages compare to core duo? i read somewhere that yonah is better for heat dissapation

2. will 64-but cause compatibilty issues with 32-bit software?

3. i can configure it with a OS cd or with symantec recovery. if i choose the OS cd, will it allow me to clean up the bloatware better? and also, do i need to go looking for drivers if i use the OS cd?

4. can i turn down the brightness of the glossy screen? full brightness gives me eyestrain

5. x1300 vs x1400 what's the difference in performance?

 

1. Core 2 Duo offers a small advantage in performance over Core Duo, the big deal with Core 2 Duo is it brings 64bit processing to the table.

2. 64bit processors are nothing new. AMD has had 64bit processors out of a while and alot of those are still running 32bit Windows XP because the 64bit version of Windows XP is a joke. So yes 64bit will be compatible with 32bit software while allowing you to be ready for future 64bit software.

3. Yes, if you get the OS CD you will be able to preinstall it. They will probably send a driver CD with it.

4. Yes, FN+Aero keys control brightness. You could also opt for the WXGA matte screen.

5. The X1400 is a fast gpu than the X1300. The X1300 is better suited for the average person who doesn't really game but wants a gpu to run very light games like the Sims2 on occation or something like that. The X1400 is better suited to moderate gamers. Neither is going to live up to the expectations of someone who wants to do high powered, more hardcore gaming.

 

if i choose to go with the OS cd, will i be able to get the laptop back into proper working order as it was when i got it? the reason i ask is because dell seems to make some utility, recovery, media direct partitions etc. also how about dvd burning and viewing software?

 

Look at the reformating forum. There you'll find everything to get your laptop as new.