Another T400 configuration question

I know there have been an awful lot of these configuration threads, but hopefully there's still room for one more. I'm looking for a CULV-on-steroids - I want something that's not as heavy as a 15/16-inch laptop, but has more power than any CULV. The T400 comes pretty close. Here's the configuration I'm looking at:

ThinkPad T400

Intel Core 2 Duo processor P8700 (2.53GHz 1066MHz 3MBL2)
enuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64
14.1 WXGA+ TFT, w/ LED Backlight
ATI Mobility Radeon 3470 with 256MB
4 GB PC3-8500 DDR3 SDRAM 1067MHz SODIMM Memory (2 DIMM)
UltraNav (TrackPoint and TouchPad)
160 GB Hard Disk Drive, 5400rpm
DVD Recordable 8x Max Dual Layer, Ultrabay Slim (Serial ATA)
No Bluetooth
Intel WiFi Link 5100 (AGN) with My WiFi Technology
Integrated Mobile Broadband upgradable
6 cell Li-Ion Battery

With CPP, coupons, taxes, shipping, etc., this configuration comes out to $862.55. I'm planning on replacing the hard drive with a WD Scorpio Black, which will raise the whole price tag to $946.67. Any thoughts?

It doesn't have to be super-fast, but I got the 3470 because the price difference for the Intel-only option (with only a P8600) is so low. I also thought about doing a dual HDD setup - get the Intel-only option with no internal DVD drive, add the drive bay adapter and an external drive. Is the drive bay adapter good enough for full-time usage (i.e., shock, dust, etc.?)

One warranty question. If I want this laptop to last a good 3-4 years, is it a good idea to extend the warranty, particularly if it'll be spending a lot of time outside of the US? (I'll be taking the laptop back with me when I leave the US. Lenovo does have support in my home country, however.)

 

Get a single 2GB memory module and add the second 2GB afterwards to save money.

If you're on WiFi the vast majority of the time, the 5300 might be a good call --slightly better range and interference robustness. Don't expect more speed, though. Not a huge deal, but if you do want it, spend the small amount for upgrade now rather than more money later.

If you use Skype, or would like a wireless mouse, consider Bluetooth. Skype works great with a cell-phone type Bluetooth headset, and with a mouse, you won't have to have an external sensor. If none of these is a big deal, don't worry about it.

Know that this is your one chance (if you're even thinking about it) to get the webcam. Admittedly, it's a bit of a gimmick, but if you do use Skype, it's useful, and it does up the resale value of the unit.

Everything else looks good. Whether to get the Scorpio Black or not depends on what apps you're running, and what priority battery life is to you. I ended up going with a 500GB Scorpio Blue for $80 on sale this summer, and I'm pretty happy.

How much travelling are you doing? If it's a lot, you might want the accidental damage protection. Otherwise, I don't recommend warranties longer than 3 years --laptops depreciate so much that it's better to save the extra towards a new one down the road. To me, the 2-year onsite is about the sweet spot.

 

With what LoneWolf said, you should be in good shape. Double check what a 2GB stick of RAM costs on Newegg and see what the difference is from what installed costs with CPP discount and coupon.

Bill

 

Thanks for all the input. I did the math - it costs about $15 more to get the DDR3 from Lenovo rather than Newegg. I don't think either the camera or Bluetooth is useful enough for me to justify the cost. Thanks for all the help!