Good spec / Build not so (Compaq Armada E700)

Member Name: SignalHill

Product:	Compaq Armada E700
Date:	24/08/01 (1282 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Fast machine, Big LCD screen

Disadvantages: Could be suspect build quality, Needs to be updated before it can be used effectively

I've had an M700 since january 2001 which has accompanied me through quite a few airports and offices and has faired pretty well considering.

The first thing I WILL say though is visit the compaq website to get all the latest updates (rompaqs) as I had LOADS of issues getting it to work with the factory modem under windows2000 server, network connections, etc.

Anyway, just to recap on the spec for my machine

PIII 850
Mini PCI 56K V.90 modem and 10/100 NIC combo
128MB SDRAM
ATI Mobility Pro graphics and 8MB SDRAM
8x DVD Drive
Floppy drive via the parallel port
Weighs in at around 5lbs

There are more options available for this model (e.g. 1ghz cpu, but the 850 does fine for me).

It came bundled with 3 or so CDs containing Win2k professional, nt4 workstation plus the support installs/docs etc. - I didn't get a docking station, although available, nor a carry case. Manuals were good, although were more for the newbie, than the seasoned IT type person.

Once you do have it running, it does work well... with the exception of the power settings under win2k sp2. Both myself and my colleague have had problems either getting it to standby /hibernate or it will leap into life from standby all by itself. If I have paintshop pro open and try to hibernate it won't until I close that app... WHY??!!

The screen is a good size and is clean and crisp (although the connector on mine has developed a fault which occasionally displays black coloured graphics as green...

The keyboard is easy to use and touchtyping is very easy and fluid. Sound is acceptable and the graphics (ati 3d directx compatible) runs Unreal at a very fast framerate!

I've really hammered my 700 since I've had it and it's held together well (software wise) - the build quality lets it down somewhat though (although not significantly). For instance I can get the battery to short out if I'm
not careful (!) - I think this is parculiar to mine only. The outer casing is also looking a little weathered, but as i said, its travelled thousands of miles with me, so I guess it's to be expected.

The battery life is reasonable; expect 2hrs full use (although compaq claim 4hrs) - also the mouse pointer has to be the least ergonomic other than the touchpads. I prefer to use a seperate mouse.

Overall a good machine; has taken a real beating and is still standing. I've nothing other than an IBM thinkpad to compare it against, and I'd definately have the compaq anyday.

Summary: