In a message dated 10/20/99 4:28:08 PM Central Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

>
>  You should also consider the Dell Inspiron laptops.  I have an Inspiron
7000
>  with the 15" active matrix display, P-II 400MHz, 128MB ram, ATI rage w/4MB
>  ram, and DVD.  The Inspirons also have the S-video connector as well as USB
>  and the other usual connectors.  It comes with the decoding software for
>  DVD.  I love mine.  This model is pricy though.  You can order this model
or
>  the 3500 with slower P-II or Celerons and smaller screen displays to reduce
>  costs.  For more info, go to http://www.dell.com .
>
     We have included the Dell in our analysis, but discovered that they have
a difficult  time price competing in Texas in their current corporate
structure.  Dell has a physical presence in Texas and sells directly so they
must charge Texas sales tax at 8.25%.  Some other vendors sell through
non-resident subsidiaries or related entities and are not so obligated.  Dell
shipping and handling charges are surprisingly high.  Consequently, at the
bottom line, a similar computer from Dell might price 10% to as much as 18%
over others.  By our lights, this just is too high a premium to justify.
Tommy Holmes
[log in to unmask]

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