Are they mad!!!!

[ITWombat]

This is what Dell thinks a desktop replacement notebook should be like.

It's like a throwback to the early laptops which were the size of suitcases and could only be supported by the laps of an Olympic weightlifter.

 

Full review at Techrepublic.

http://techrepublic.com.com/5254-6257-0.html?forumID=99&threadID=180385&messageID=2030253&id=598322&tag=nl.e019

[indiegirl]

Actually, I don't think they are *that* mad. This would be perfect in many schools where space is at a premium... the thing could be unfolded and used for half of the lesson, then folded up and stacked away to promote discussion.

 

It would turn any IT room into a multi-function classroom.

 

Alright, it's ugly as sin, but it looks like a damn fine idea as a prototype to me....

[Guest]

Have to agree with indiegirl, wouldn't say no to one of those at home

 

Although I dare say I think the price of such a system would put it outside the school market.

[alan-d]

It's something I was looking for to convert an IT suite into a duel use classroom, but like it's been said - pretty pricey for a school budget.

 

Image the size of the recharging cabinet for 20 of these beasts...

[Ric_]

They did say 'desktop replacement' so it's not meant to be small

 

I can see its uses but I wouldn't buy one because:

a) I don't see the point in desktop replacement laptops

b) I have issues with Dell build quality (particularly laptops!)

[ITWombat]

They did say 'desktop replacement' so it's not meant to be small )

 

Is that desktop or desk replacement

[kestrel1]

Probably OK if you want a laptop to sit on a desk, but it looks a bit large to me. Have a look at this: http://www.flipscreendesking.com/

This looks like a very good idea, but I am sure it is very expensive. Might be OK if you have a large budget & need to change a room to something that is multi-purpose.

[Ric_]

@kestrel1: I've been looking into the Flipscreen desking - not as expensive as I thought it would be (£13K-£14K for 30 workstations plus cupboards and stuff). Funnily enough I just received a call from them while typing this

[kestrel1]

Ric: What do you actually get for your money? I haven't actually looked into it yet, but it may be an option in the future. Just installing a new set of thin clients in one of our rooms. Nice TFT monitors etc.

[Ric_]

@kestrel1: Speak to Bobby at Oliis and he will get some details sent to you (0845 456 8556). You basically get a desk which you mount a VESA-compatable monitor to and your base unit mounts underneath (or inside depending on size). The keyboard and mouse fold away inside when the monitor is shut... it's basically like an old-skool school desk.

[kestrel1]

Thanks Ric, I will give them a call. Thanks for the info.

[john]

I have seen this - http://www.cclonline.com/product-info.asp?product_id=5195&category_id=340&manufacturer_id=0 and its very good, similar idea to you flip screen thingy.

[Ric_]

@john: That is a lot less flexible - I had a guy come to 'big up' that desk. They are of a fixed size and strike me as being less attractive and less robust. £800 is a lot of money too!

[JayR]

I reckons it would be a better idea if the monitor offered the main support for the unit the hardware section could lift up and offer more possible space for workbooks etc. Possibly even wall mounted those this would not always be practicle (eg no walls).

It looks now like the monitor folds onto the top of the computer, so if it was the other way around it would save nore space...I think.

But hey im blonde

JayR