Thanks for the replies! I knew I could count on this group for practical computer help.
My problem with a laptop right now is that I won't _need_ it for another 9 months -- by which point laptop technology will have advanced quite a bit. By the time I actually use it onboard the submarine, I'll be more than a year out of date -- substantial, for mobile technology.
The problem with "hotrodding," imho, is that I can only go so far. The processor is, for all practical purposes, tied to the motherboard. That limits my upgrades to the memory and video -- which makes for a very "asphaltgambler" solution. Get the video and memory upgrade now, then get the laptop when I go back to a submarine and have need of greater portability.
Any recommendations on a good video card?
Something quick, but not extravagant?
Thanks again,
Dan