Shack computer

[KC0ZRX]

I am looking for a simple laptop computer to use in the shack.  I have the N3FPJ logging program running on the home PC upstairs and also use the main PC for call sign look-ups, checking DX clusters, etc.  I'd like to get something in the shack so I could do all this while operating.  Other than internet access, I don't think I'll need much else.  I have a spare printer available.  Would like something that has minimal noise interference with the rig. I operate mainly HF. Any suggestions/recommendations?  Thanks!
   

[KE4DRN]

hi robert,

not sure of your budget, new or used,
or if you will use HRD or other pc software
to control the radios in the future...

ibm has big selection of off lease thinkpads,
windows xp already loaded up and ready to run.
free shipping too.  check the link daily for a good deal.

http://www-03.ibm.com/financing/gars/index.html

I have an older model 600E.

73 james

[WA7NCL]

Look around at hamfests and ask relatives and friends for junk obsolete laptops.  Anything Pentium 166 or Celron 300 with at least 128Meg of memory will run win98.  You can get stuff like this for free.  I would think you could probably find Pentium 3 with 256Meg or so as junk also.

I run a 300Mhz Celeron with 256meg and win98.  It runs FJP software and Digipan etc. just fine.

As far as RFI goes, the biggest offender is usually the power supply module.  I have had realtively good luck with laptops, since most have had to pass RFI standards for years now.  However, if you have interference from the power supply, you can put ferrite toroids on the input and output cables, and I have even torn the supplies open and put them in metal boxes.  If your dealing with junkers you can modify them to your hearts content.

This is ham radio, get some junk and have fun making it useful.

[KE4DRN]

hi,

try to avoid any win 98 o/s, no longer supported and
has security and memory issues.

if your going to use the internet to do call lookups,
go with windows 2000 pro or higher.

better security and memory management.

another good place to look in on ebay,
many older laptops off lease with the o/s included.

73 james

[KG4RUL]

I got an off-lease, Compaq EVO N510C laptop from Tiger Direct.  Win XP PRO, serial port, parallel port, NIC Card, Wireless LAN, Modem and 512MB RAM.  I did have to update the OS and various drivers but, that was accomplished in less than two hours.