Laptop Recommendation please

[contink]

Ok.. my Sony Vaio heap of junk is finally on its last legs with numerous lock ups and problems I think it's time to consign it to my father to play with and try to revive.

So, I'm looking for something to take its place with the following remit in mind:

1. Would prefer it to be backwards compatible to WinXP (not vital but would be useful)
2. Usage:
   
   • Repacking apps
   • General remote connection work (servers, etc..)
   • Office, email, etc...
   • Net (naturally)
   • 2+ battery life
   • 3+ USB sockets
   • 15" screen or more
   • CD/DVD
3. Reasonably light
4. RELIABLE!
5. Self-maintainable (ie: hd/RAM upgrades)
6. No OEM OS or other software required as have all necessary licenses through MS Partner program
7. Budget: £500 - 700

Any suggestions on where to look... and especially ones to avoid... Acer is on my "forget it" list due to their warranty/tech support but I'm open to persuasion...

Thanks in advance...

[CSNM-Carl]

Lenovo Thinkpad Edge, it comes with Windows 7 Pro. I'm not aware of any laptops that come without an O/S.

Lenovo EDGE 15 Notebook PC - Misco.co.uk