is Hp even worth my time?

I am looking into a new laptop for college. I am going into engineering so I will need to do some 3D programs, coding and some light to moderate gaming.
From what it looks like, the Hp's can't give me the GPU and CPU that I require (Duo Core, at least 1.66Ghz and at least a mid-level dedicated graphics card) without going over $2000 (my budget after tax).

Is there even one out there that would suit my needs or should I just drop Hp from the running altogether?

 

yes it can..

try out the new Dv9000 or the older dv8000....they both come with GeForce go 7600 cards..............Hint: Its actually cheaper to customize the notebook at www.hp.com/notebooks

 

Don't forget to look at Business Class HP's. I'm quite happy with the nc8430.

Also, what size screen do you require? 17" 15.4"? 14"?

 

I would want to check out the newest one from hp, the DV9000t

 

you havent looked with enough effort, hp has plenty, AND you can get their APP discount.

 

here's the link to HP's biz line: http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/us/en/sm/WF04a/321957-64295-89315-321838-f1.html

 

i have looked at every single home office configuration and model that i might consider and a specced out dv6000 series is the only one i might consider.

thanks for the tip on the business class, forgot to check them, doing that now.

what is this APP discount you speak of?

 

I am looking for something in the 15.4"- 14.0" category. Anything bigger I might consider if it is wonderfully build, great specs and dirt cheap, and i won't consider anything smaller that 13"; it's just not what I am looking for.

 

Well, I have checked every business class option and most of them dont have the GPU power that I am looking for. I am looking for someting in the mainstream class or above.
The only notebook that I added to my list of considerations is the nc8430. If you think that I missed one though, please let me know.

 

It's the educational discount, just like Dell and Apple have.

Go to this thread for more info: http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=3766

 

The nc8430 should easily meet your requirements and be under your budget of $200) USD.

Another thing to consider when looking at the nc8430 is that a three year warranty is included in the price and generally the build quality of a business notebook is better than that of a consumer/mainstream notebook.