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    HP xb2000 Expansion Base

    Discussion in 'HP' started by mitchc05, Jul 25, 2006.

  1. mitchc05

    mitchc05 Newbie

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    Hey,

    I am thinking of buying this expansion base as I do a lot of typing and I have the dv5000 which Im sure all of you know has a few keyboard problems. Although I haven't had any problems since I started using a usb mouse, I still would like to get an external keyboard. The xb2000 comes with a wireless keyboard and mouse and I can get it for $99 on sale which I think is a pretty good deal. I was just wondering if anyone who has this expansion base could tell me a little about it and pros cons. etc.

    Thanks :)
     
  2. superman23

    superman23 Notebook Consultant

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    The xb2000 looks cool but I would probably opt for a different mouse. Where are you finding it for $99 w/ keyboard and mouse? It's $249 from HP.
     
  3. DrewN

    DrewN Notebook Evangelist

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    Too lazy to repost :D:

    http://www.notebookforums.com/post2169140-7.html

    Best thing by far about the dock is the way it elevates the screen to keep your neck straight and eyes level -- it reduces neck strain considerably. The second best thing about it is the extra USB ports it has, and an extra coaxial digital out for your laptop's internal sound. There are other less useful ports on it, like duplicate ethernet, phone and headphone ports. The third best thing is you can plug in external mouse and keyboard and keep your USB ports free for other stuff. Unfortunately I cannot speak highly of the included mouse/keyboard combo, as it is an ancient wireless setup that uses a dongle w/ AA battery power needed. Stick with the Logitech stuff if you can.

    Do not get it if:
    --you're expecting better sound out of the notebook base speakers. you won't get it.
    --you want to run you NB on a cooling pad. Wont work with this setup

    Finally, is it worth it? If only to have my laptop screen at level eyesight, yes. I get the most value out of this feature alone.
     
  4. vassil_98

    vassil_98 Notebook Deity

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    Too bad the expansion base does not have a cooler in it.
     
  5. mitchc05

    mitchc05 Newbie

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    That would be nice - thanks for all the replies guys and nice mini review Drew. I think I have decided to just get a nice logitech wireless keyboard and mouse combo instead.

    Thanks again
    Mitch
     
  6. preachp

    preachp Notebook Consultant

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    Hi Mitchc50,
    That's what I did and I am very happy with my $30 investment. The only drawback is that you still need to use the laptop keyboard for the blue "fn" key functions.