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Compaq Presario 1800 Laptop
By Kelly Lu - August 24, 2001
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When it comes to building a computer system, I have always preferred to build my own from scratch, since it gives me the most control, in terms of components and software alike, over what I put into the system. The ready-made, major-branded computer systems have never been one of my preferred system types, since I find that they are not very well suited for enthusiasts like me.
When it comes to notebooks, however, the ability to build my own from scratch is virtually taken away from me, so my only choice would be to look for a major-branded model. In fact, one of the most important factors is to look at how big and respectable the company behind the notebook product is, since repairing and maintaining a notebook can become very much of a hassle. Although you might have to pay a little more for the brand, when you need to get something fixed or replaced, the general rule is that the larger and more respectable the company, the easier it is to get them to fix it or replace it for you.
When it comes to being large and respectable, Compaq is no rookie. Although they have dropped a little in recent times, Compaq is still the world's #2 maker of computer products. This is one of my main reason for wanting to review their Presario 1800 notebook-and also because it's loaded with features.
 The Presario 1800 is what one would call a desktop replacement laptop, since it carries almost all the features that one would find in a fully-loaded desktop system. The center of the Presario 1800 is its power processor--our model, the 18XL590, came with an Intel Pentium III 1.0GHz processor, a speed that is very seldom seen in a notebook. Our model also came with 20GB of storage space, which should be plenty for a notebook, but might be lacking a bit for a "desktop replacement," 128MB of SDRAM, which I think is a little inadequate, and has its graphics powered by the ATI Mobility Rage 128 graphics controller. Aside from the core components, Compaq loaded a bunch of goodies to please just about any power user: an 8X DVD-ROM drive, a floppy disk drive, a spacious 15" LCD screen, built-in 56K modem and 10/100Mbps LAN (powered by the Intel 8255x 10/100 network controller), Video-OUT and JBL Pro Performance Audio speakers. Compaq even went further by including their special feature, DisqPlay2, which allows users to play CD's on their laptop without even having to power up the actual computer.
Specifications
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Presario 18XL590 |
| CPU |
Intel Pentium III 1.0GHz w/ SpeedStep |
| Memory |
128MB PC100 SDRAM |
| Hard Drive |
20.0GB |
| Display |
15" TFT LCD |
| Video Controller |
ATI Rage™ Mobility 128 hardware-accelerated 3D Graphics |
| Audio |
JBL Pro Performance Audio Speakers, Dolby® Digital Certified Sound |
| Modem |
56K ITU v.90 |
| Networking |
Integrated 10/100 Ethernet Port |
| Keyboard/Touchpad |
Full-size keys and separate cursor control keys (88 keys) - 101-key compatible |
| Battery/Power Supply |
High-capacity LiIon battery |
| Diskette Drive |
3.5" 1.44 MB diskette drive |
| Expansion Slots |
One (1) Type I, II or III PC Card slots with support for 32-bit CardBus |
| Security Features |
Power-on password, Reinforced security slot; accepts 3rd-party security lock devices |
| Other Features |
Windows XP Ready, DisqPlay2 |
| Physical |
Unit: 11.02" x 12.99" x 1.65"(7.9lbs.) |
As you can see, the Presario 1800 is loaded with features to please just about any user, including ones who are as demanding as me. At a price of $2399 USD (for the 18XL590 model that I am looking at here) it won't lighten up your wallet-too much, that is.
 On to: First Impressions
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