Topic Title

All -

As I look at the likelyhood of striking out on my own I am considering the purchase of a new laptop that would become the basis of my new office. I'd like to ask for some recommendations.

My assumptions are:
- 3~4gb of RAM
- Dual core Intel (as opposed to an AMD?)
- 250gb HD (min)
- 15.4" (min) screen
- Vista (though I'd prefer WinXP Pro)
- Included software isn't as important as speed and video (I can download and install OpenOffice, thank-you-very-much!)
- Prefer the sub $800 range, though I can push the budget if it's absolutely necessary
- Highest cell battery (ie. an 8-cell as opposed to a 6-cell)
- Doesn't matter to me whether it's a Dell, a Gateway, at Costco, Sam's Club, OfficeDepot, etc. or if it's mail order.

Some of my questions:
- How necessary is a webcam? I already have a USB remote one (that I bought at OfficeDepot for $4), but do I really need one built in?
- Does it matter (for Dcad) whether the video is ATI or NVidea? I know that this DOES matter for SketchUp.

Thanks in advance for your recommendations and advice!