TECH: Laser PC5

[Connie Weber <CWeber2560@AOL.COM>]

We will be purchasing 100 laptops for our school over the summer.  I have the
PC5 home this weekend to try it and compare it with the Alpha Smart, and
later
with a Dream Writer.  I've got some questions of those who have these:
Are they durable?
Are they too complicated for students--there are so many functions?
Did you buy the carts--how difficult to keep so many recharged?
What do you do about the fact that the case doesn't hold the adaptor or
cables?
How quick is service if there's a problem?
Are they better for older students--with possibly something like Alpha Smart
for
   younger ones?
Is the typing tutor a feature that you think is worthwhile?
How did you identify these after purchase if you allow students to take them
home?
How expensive can it be to keep it in batteries?
Any other considerations about laptops in general?
If you've tried another laptop, what convinced you that this was superior?

Thanks,  Connie Weber  Churubusco (IN) Middle/High School  Media Specialist
CWeber2560@aol.com