> My old Dell is getting wheezy, so it's getting to be about that
> time...
>
> But if I get another Dell (which I've been happy with) apparently I
> have to pay wayyy more to avoid Vista.
> Have the problems been fixed, or should I still try to avoid it?
>
> I mainly want to use it for graphics and stuff, and will be getting a
> new Adobe Creative Suite, as well as a Cintiq tablet.http://www.wacom.com/cintiq/12wx.cfm
>
> I'd heard that Vista does some sort of constant communication with the
> Overlords, to thwart piracy, and that this slowed down some programs.
> Also, that older hardware often wouldn't work with it.
> I really don't want to have to get a new printer, scanner, etc, if at
> all avoidable. Is this still a problem with Vista?
>
> And if so, could I just buy the cheaper laptop and install XP?
> Would I need to buy a new XP, or could I use the disk that came with
> my current laptop (Inspiron 5150) - I still have the disk, it's never
> been opened.
>
> Is there a solid, reliable, fairly durable laptop other than a Dell
> than is recommended?
>
> Any helpfulness on this would be appreciated.
> I really want to get a new laptop soon, and think I want to avoid
> Vista, but am not sure...
> I'm feeling slightly paralyzed by ignorance and superstition...
>
> P