[VicVega]

After seeing the original receipt of purchase of Apple Care, they registered the laptop and the tech center is looking at it now.

Sort of hoping they can’t fix it so I’ll have no guilt buying a new one.

[RightOnTheLeftCoast]

"Sort of hoping they can’t fix it so I’ll have no guilt buying a new one."

They'll fix it. Zero "can't" chance. They'll replace all the innards if they have to.

The way to deal with the guilt is to purchase a new machine with significantly different capabilities. Different tools for different tasks. Why should I feel guilty for having two screwdrivers, or two hammers? ...Seems to me the 17" you covet is well differentiated from your comparatively petite current machine. It's a very powerful machine with top-end graphics and a huge screen. On the other hand your existing unit is a rugged and reliable old-timer more suitable for everyday banging-around. And it probably would love a companion (though it's too shy to ask.)

How's that H-P working for you? Murder it yet?