Thanks for the feedback guys.

Anyone tell me if the cache in the processer is worth the $150 bucks? what value does that add?

True dat.

Usually, faster processors come with more cache by default. So, I'd guess in addition to larger cache, you're buying a faster processor or a higher/newer series/model of processor.

Larger cache generally means faster because certain bits of information can be stored in this cache rather than fetching it from the normal memory which is slower both in sheer speed, and because it's further away from the actual CPU core. Whether or not it makes a big difference likely depends on what you do with the computer.

Afaik, the more precessor intensive tasks you use, the more larger cache helps.

If ones primary use is writing word documents, surfing the web, sending email etc, probably not much benefit. If one works with large video or high megapixel photo work, large audio files, or does lots number crunching stuff, it might be worth it.

About the RAM memory, the last computer articles I've read seem to indicate that 2GB is the sweet spot for Vista. Meaning, going beyond 2GB had little increase in performance. I have not, however, done a direct comparison for myself.

When I bought my system with Vista Home Premium, they recommended 1G RAM. Due to issues related to my previous system I elected to double the RAM up front and so I upgraded the package to 2G right away. Vista by itself uses a lot of RAM and that's why they don't recommend anything less than 1G but the OS is not the only thing that uses RAM memory.

If I had it to do over again, I think I might have gone 3G but so far the 2G has been working fine. When I monitor my RAM usage I find that I rarely use more than 50% at this time. As we continue to add new software, software upgrades are added, and the internet continues to consume more I'm sure a time will come when the 2G will become an issue.

Bob

RAM usage depends so much on how you use your PC. For most home users, web browser, email, maybe a word document, and some photo or video editing, 2 gig or more. It all depends on what you are going to have running at one time. At work I can have upwards of 12 applications open looking at this, monitoring that checking the config on this, that the more RAM the merrier. My previous laptop only had a Gig of RAM and it got very doggy at times.

Considering the cost of upgrading RAM now days(cheap), I would bump it up a little. You can never have too much.

I hear what you're saying about having many packages open at once. In fact, as I am writing this I have open:
Lotus Notes, 2 sessions of Excel, Microsoft Explorer, an Elau PLC software package, Microsoft Word, Adobe Reader, 4 sessions of Power-Link (java based), and Internet Explorer. I'm surprised I don't have a couple CAD sessions and one or more sessions of Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and Factory Talk open as well. Give me another hour and I'm sure it will change.

Bob

No Bob we don't. And yes we know the difference between an operating system "XP" and the New version of Office that Microsoft has ruined trying to make it prettier and more user friendly.

It's all about marketing "MONEY" these days and not making a better product.

Generally when I see upgrade or new and improved I run for the hills...

After your message I did a little digging. I didn't know that there was such a thing as Office XP. I guess I'm the confused one.

Bob

Well I took the plunge today on a Dell from their outlet site.

I went into big blue (BB) today to check out features and sized and pricing and to look at the competition pricing.

Then I went online and found a good deal...once i knew what a good deal was.

I got a Studio 15 with a T8100 core 2 (2.1/800mhz 3Mb Cache)
Vista home Premium
256mb Radeon Video card
finger reader
200GB free fall sensor hard drive (7200 rpm)
15.4 WXGA Led 1440 x 900 screen
wireless card WiFi
blue tooth
2.0 mp web camera built in
3GB DDR Ram
CD/DVD combo drive
DC plug in for truck power
Carrying case
With Tax and shipping $1018
Now with the money i saved ($300)I can buy my Office XP pro and install.

Thanks again for the information provided.

Nice machine, that should perform well for some time to come.