I am seriously thinking of updating my dell 6430s laptop purchased 3
years ago. NYU has an arrangement with dell so that is the only maker
I am considering. This machine will be essentially gentoo only (I
configure my computers to dual boot some version of windows for ease
in dealing with dell support).
The hardest decision is size vs performance, but I know you can't help
with that. I have pretty much decided on the dell 7450. My questions
concern three options: Graphics, Wireless, Screen. But would appreciate
any other advice you have.
I will definitely get
* 16GB ram (2 x 8GB)
* 512GB solid state disk
* most powerful CPU compatible with the options chosen
1. Graphics.
I can afford a high-end graphics co-processor, but prefer the
software/administrative simplicity of intel graphics. I do not
play high speed games or otherwise run graphics intensive
applications. Am I correct in believing that Linux (the kernel)
supports (the dell option)
Intel Core i7-5600U Processor, UMA graphics, Smart Card
directly with no extra gentoo package needed?
2. Wireless.
My current home router/wireless-access-point (linksys WRT54G)
supports 10/100 wired and 802.11bg wireless. I have no problems
with this device or our home network, but I could upgrade to a
1-gigabit version if deemed important.
Currently I must install net-wireless/broadcom-sta. This has caused
no problems to date, but a wireless chip supported directly by linux
would be preferable.
I would appreciate help choosing among the following dell options
(the prices are about the same).
a. Intel Tri Band Wireless-AC 17265 802.11AC
Wi-Fi + Wi-Gig + BT 4.0 LE Wireless Card
b. Dell Wireless 1707 802.11n Single Band
Wi-Fi + BT 4.0LE Wireless Card
c. Dell Wireless 1560 (802.11ac 2x2, WiFi & BT)
d. Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265 802.11AC
Wi-Fi + BT 4.0 LE Wireless Card (2X2)
3. Screen
I am only considering 1920x1080 (best available) with a camera.
a. "Touch" is available for $160.
Are touch screens supported on gentoo/gnome?
b. Some screens (including "touch") are "WiGig capable".
This requires option 2a above (Tri Band Wireless-AC).
Is WiGig valuable and is it easy to administer?
Thanks in advance,
allan
