My Network

1)I have a cable connection with At&t. ISP SBC Internet Services

2)My download speed is 2.92 Mb/s and upload speed 85Mb/s

3)I think it is wireless because I can go about my apartment without a wire connection. I do have a modem that works with the outside router but I'm not sure if that is mainly for my tv or internet service.

4)From what I was told by the set up service man was that I had a password that someone would need to enter my network, so he told me to secure my password. I wonder if I need to change it periodically for a safer network. Is it possible for someone to figure out my password? I have a WPA PSK security and the only firewall I'm aware of is the Windows firewall that protects my system.

5)I need to backup my data for my laptops, asap. It's one of those things I've been meaning to do for a while now. I do have backup discs for my desktop computer though.

6)Yes, I just purchased a special computer cord to setup both my computer's to share information and items I had stored on one because I got tired of going back and forth between the two. I have an Epson printer/scanner that I got deal on when I puchased a laptop at Bestbuy. It is installed to both laptops and when I need to print, I put the Epson USB wire into the laptop and press print. My next thing to learn is how to print without using the Epson USB wire, similar to a libraries printing setup.

Sound Cards & Speakers

Internal optical drive:I want two drives that are interchangable, a floppy disk drive and a dvd/CD-Rom drive.

Printer:Having a printer is essential and I would get one with a scanner.

Sound card and Speakers:They don't have to be extravagant as long as the sound is clear and the bass good.

Pointing devices: (mice) Any cheap mouse will due.

External Storage:I would start off with USB disks of various storage capacitiies.

Tv Tuner:I don't need this option or the gaming accessories because I like the classic arcade games that don't need any extra equipment.

I want the options that will make my computing easier, more comfortable, and creative.

Video Card & Displays

Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X4500HD

15.6 Hi Def Display with a 16.9 aspect ratio

Internal and External Ports

Ports

(3) USB 2.0 Compliant Ports
Integrated network connector 10/100/1000 LAN (RJ45)
VGA
HDMI
AC adapter connector
Audio jacks
7 in 1 Media Card Reader

Hard Drive/Storage

Inspiron 15z

160GB 5.4K Hard drive (Included in the price)

250GB 5.4K Hard drive add $25 to the price

320GB 7.2K Hard drive add $125 to the price

500GB 7.2K Hard drive add $175 to the price

I like the fourth option but it probably would be a bit much for me right now although I do have a huge song collection on my laptop. However, I think 320GB 7200 hard drive is good.
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Security
550 MB free Hard Drive for AVG software

Office Suite
512 MB of RAM for Microsoft Office and Student 2007

RAM/MEMORY

Options

A)Processors:Intel Pentium Dual Core SU4100 (1.3Ghz,800Mhz,2MB)
Memory - 2GB Shared Dual Channel DDR3 1066Mhz/ Starting Price $549.00

B)Intel Pentium Dual Core (1.3Ghz,800Mhz,2MB)
Memory - 4GB Shared DC DDR3 1066Mhz/ Starting Price $599.00, and

C)Intel Core Duo SU7300 (1.3Hhz,800Mhz,3MB) Memory - 4GB Shared DC DDR3 1066Mhz/ Starting Price $649.00
also 4GB Shared DC DDR3 1066Mhz

Up to 6GB of 1067Mhz DDR3 SRAM

The first two options A and B are almost identical, the 2GB of option B seperate them. Options B and C have the same memory components, however, the beefier and faster processor is option C.
I think option C would suit me best. I would be able to run my internet browser and Windows Office and Student Suite. Chosing the option with the most space would be too much right now but I don't see it as too much. I feel like I will have the memory when I need it.

Processor & Motherboard/Buses

DELL INSPIRON 15Z: $549.00 starting price

What options - Core, cache, price, front side bus, and clock speed?
What are the difference between the two options?
System that is needed to run? Highest suggested processor speed?
What option will you select and why do you need to upgrade?

Options -Dual core, cache:3MB , price:$549.00, front side bus:800MHz, and clock speed:1.3GHz
Although, I am heavily focused on school, I still like to unwind in my free time so space for media applications is appreciated.
Crisp sound quality and an underlining bass tone would be ideal.

Intel Core 2Duo SU7300 [1.3GHz,800MHz,3MB] Add $65.00 or Intel Core 2Duo SU9400 [1.4GHz,800MHz,3MB] Add $155.00
I pick the second option.
The major differences is the room I'll be given to be creative & learn (MS Home and Student Suite and Internet Explorer 8 Browser), enjoy media software like my expanding music collection, and the fastness with which the system will run.
I'm looking for 4GB of RAM & 500GB 5400 or 7200 (rpm), because I want my system to be able to handle all the cutting edge projects that I'm focused on in school and in pastime. I'm also preparing for 3 to 4 years down the road I'll have the space for anything I may want to do.

Form Factor & Base Configuration

I will be in school for the next three years so my main focus is having a computer that I will write papers and create projects with. I have no need to run any sophisticated applications at this time, in fact, my computer usage is narrowed down to school projects, using the internet, and downloading music. However, down the road I see myself using more intricate apps and expanding the programs I use. Given the hectic schedule I have and my activities on computers; I have written the specifications and features I need and desire for a new computer.

I'm searching for a stylish and portable computer. A fast, dual-core processor is a must. I would like as much memory as I can get, preferably 4GB, which will allow me to add programs and great for 3-4 years down the road. My hopes is that I will be able to interchange my floppy disc drive with a CD/DVD (D:) drive. Those are the most important specifications that I desire, a few other features I want is a spacious keyboard, three or more USB ports, and a 14-16 inch lcd screen.

The Dell Inspiron 15z is the laptop that caught my eye because it's customizable, it gets to the root of my daily activities on a computer, Intel core 2 duo processor, and 500GB hard drive at 7200 (rpm). I chose a computer that I could use for school and also enjoy multimedia apps on too. I didn't think an extravagant laptop fit my outline of activity at this moment and the Inspiron 15z better suits my computer comprehension.