<p>Hi, I'm in SEAS and am wondering about whether I should get a laptop or do a desktop + netbook combo. If I did the latter, I would use the netbook to remote control the desktop or just to take notes (how's the wifi on campus?).</p>
<p><a href=“http://infotech.seas.virginia.edu/firstyear/[/url]”>http://infotech.seas.virginia.edu/firstyear/</a></p>
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<p>I suggest a small laptop 14" or 15" with exterior screen and keyboard/mouse.</p>
<p>Yes, start with a good laptop. Add a larger screen with a USB connection if needed. Then, after being in class for a while, if that doesn’t meet your needs, then look into other purchases, such as a netbook or tablet. However, too many people are rushing out and buying tablets without really knowing why they need one.</p>
<p>What about buying from the CAV program? I’m hesitant about it because the warranties don’t seem any different from the manufacturer’s, and I don’t really like their choices.</p>
<p>I’m actually on my recently purchased laptop from cav computers, and so far this thing is awesome. It’s a bit heavy, but the battery life is way better than my 17" model that I had before. The warranties are very similar, so I chose to go with cav because of the convenience and the promise of on site help. I purchased the more expensive E6420 (because of the discreet graphics card) so I can’t vouch for the other model, but my last week on the SEAS model has been nothing but good.</p>
<p>How good is the wifi coverage?</p>
<p>I just bought the T420s and I’m loving it so far. The warranty support is also an advantage. It’s your choice but the Cav program is definitely worth looking into. If your desktop is for gaming then try the T420s or E6420 with the discrete graphics. Better than they may seem, I was able to run Bad Company 2 on mine.</p>
<p>Wifi coverage is great throughout Grounds</p>