Debt Free

When purchasing a new laptop computer, make sure that you are able to use widely available replacement parts, such as batteries and especially power supplies. Some manufacturers, notably Dell, require the use of a like branded power supply otherwise the computer will run at about one third normal speed and the battery will fail to charge. All other power supplies will only allow the computer to run, not charge the battery. You will get an error message informing you of this fact when using any other supply, except the factory supplied unit (in some cases you'll get the message even when using the factory [Dell] supply).

In the interest of keeping my readers informed so they may make a good decision when purchasing their next laptop, I advise you check such things thouroughly. My advice is that you be aware when purchasing certain laptops you may incur the additional expense and inconvenience of having to buy only factory supplied parts, rather than readily available replacements. After all, there are many companies out there that produce fine batteries and power supplies. As is evidenced by the battery recall fiasco of a few months ago, simply buying a factory supplied replacement is no guarantee of quality.

Caveat Emptor.