How outdated is my laptop?

[hrstruggle]

I'm using an HP Elitebook 8440p at work and am trying to make a case to get it replaced. I do data-heavy analysis, manipulating records in the millions, regularly and run many large, complex applications (i.e, MS Outlook, Office applications, Lync, SAP products, BlueZoneX (for SAS), UltraEdit, multiple web browsers (for development purposes), Epic (I'm in healthcare), Tableau, SQL Developer, Teradata SQL Asst, etc. etc.

The machine I'm using has specs from Sept 2011:

Win7, SP1
Intel i5 M520 @ 2.4 GHz
4GB RAM
Mobile Intel QM57 Express Chipset
Remaining specs described here: http://www8.hp.com/h20195/v2/GetDocument.aspx?docname=c04141332

Can anyone point me to systems that can handle the amount of stuff I'm throwing at it and still have capacity? The company has an newer model they are going to roll out but I'm losing time now and need a newer system immediately. I started this job at the end of Jan and they re-imaged the machine then. I had it reimaged yesterday because the entire system failed on me.

Thanks!

Moved from General Hardware.

mfenn
General Hardware Moderator

 

[gsaldivar]

In my opinion, the limiting factor of your current laptop is the RAM, followed by the processor. If you don't mind the weight (I am assuming not since your existing laptop isn't a lightweight), consider the Thinkpad W541 and W550s. These are high performance workstation-class laptops that can take up to 32GB of RAM and will burn through as much work as you can throw at them.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY3u9f9QJSA

 

[hrstruggle]

Yeah, it's pretty damn heavy too. Especially compared to that new Apple laptop that is like 2 pounds!! I'm afraid I'd break that sucker in half just by placing it on my desk!

 

[gsaldivar]

Thinkpad W541 Datasheet:
https://s3.amazonaws.com/isby/lenovopartnernetwork.com/upload/1/files/thinkpad-w541-datasheet.pdf

Thinkpad W550s Datasheet:
http://www.lenovopartnernetwork.com/theme/default/upload/1/files/thinkpad-w550s-datasheet.pdf

 

[Puffnstuff]

Well I'd be looking for something with a core i7 cpu, lots of ram and a fast drive with at least a 17" screen since you are working from it. If you are shopping for this machine check the windows experience index rating on it before you buy it so you will have an idea of its performance. This will give you a clear indication of what you can expect from it. Also make sure that it has the latest network standards in the wireless network controller card to insure that you will be able to transmit your data effectively. You will also want to get an auxillary cooler for a pc like this. I learned the hard way with my own desktop replacement laptop which will run hot when pushed. Since prices have come down you can get a really capable unit for under 2k if you shop around.

 

[corkyg]

Is this unit you use at work your own or is it property of your employer? Does your work require you to be mobile with the unit?

 

[ninaholic37]

The machine I'm using has specs from Sept 2011:

Win7, SP1
Intel i5 M520 @ 2.4 GHz
4GB RAM
Mobile Intel QM57 Express Chipset

That's about 4 times newer than mine. You won't even be able to make the "5 years or more club" (46%) on this thread unless you keep it for 2 more years:

http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=2423785

 

[hrstruggle]

Is this unit you use at work your own or is it property of your employer? Does your work require you to be mobile with the unit?

Property of employer. I travel once a week and need it for that day.

 

[hrstruggle]

That's about 4 times newer than mine. You won't even be able to make the "5 years or more club" (46%) on this thread unless you keep it for 2 more years:

http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=2423785

Good data & perspective. Thanks!

 

[DragonBorn]

IMHO, the CPU is what keeps your laptop back.

 

[gmaster456]

RAM and CPU are what's choking you likely in that order. The Workstations listed above should be more than adequate. Some of the machines we use at work are the same model you currently have but the work load is usually MUCH lighter