August 19, 2004

Wal-Mart's $600 notebook computer

WAIT! I'm not suggesting that you run out a buy Wal-Mart's $600 notebook computer, but am I suggesting that you take a look.

Businesses buying a computer should always consider business class warranties and support - parts/labor, 24/7 and etc.

However, if you already have a core technology foundation of hardware and software and are in the market for maybe a backup notebook computer or one for a temp staff - DO consider this low cost Wal-Mart option.

I repeat - don't build your tech foundation on a Wal-Mart computer. But do consider fulfilling your need for extra, non-critical notebooks with a cheap "no name brand" notebook.

Cnet writes "It's a very entry-level configuration," Bhavnani said. "But it does have wireless, which makes it a very compelling offer. That's where this system will pose a threat (to brand-name PC makers) once it hits the shelf. The Wal-Mart customer is going to see it there, see the price and just buy it."

In addition to wireless, the ECS notebook comes loaded with a 14.1-inch display, an AMD Athlon XP 1600+ processor, 128MB of RAM, a 40GB hard drive, a DVD-drive, Wi-Fi 802.11b and Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition operating system. It also carries a one-year warranty, according to Wal-Mart's Web site.

Although it's fairly common for stores to sell notebooks for as low as $500, the Wal-Mart offer stands out because it does not require customers to use discounts and mail-in rebates to get the PC for the $598 price.

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