[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?

[VicVega]

"Why should I feel guilty for having two screwdrivers, or two hammers?" .

Now thats funny.

Waiting to here what tech center reports.

Hate the HP.