No, I've
had the miniPCI MODEM replaced as my system was shipped with
the Actiontec and I had specified the 3Com, so Dell sent a tech to
swap the card. I also had the SXGA+ screen replaced twice. The first
screen developed a flicker, so they sent a tech to replace the screen.
I didn't the the second screen looked even, so they had a second
screen replacement installed. I didn't have to make up any excuse, I
just told tech support I was unhappy with the way the LCD looked.
Finally, I had a problem with the mouse developing a mind of its own.
The keyboard (with built-in eraser-head pointer) was replaced, and
when the problem reoccurred they sent a new palmrest (which has the
touchpad built-in), which fixed the problem.
So, in other words, your laptop basically sucked as far as quality goes?
No, not really. They shipped the wrong modem (the Actiontec worked, but
I wanted the 3Com), and they swapped for the right one.
The screen flicker could have been due to the fact that this is a laptop,
and does get shook around sometime. They didn't balk at swapping the
replacement LCD with another one just because I didn't like the new one
(I think most people wouldn't have complained). All three LCDs had no
bad pixles, BTW. The mouse problem was due to me being in the habit of
holding the laptop (with the screen open, which adds extra strain) in one
hand on the right-front corner when I move around while I'm working and
putting extra strain on the case, which caused flexing and damaged the
touchpad.
Each time the
techs arrived the next day, with the replacement part
and tools, and the techs (I've had three different techs) all knew
what they were doing.
Dell on-site tech support is subbed out to local contractors who are
supposed to be "Dell certified" or whatever. So that explains why some
people may have good service, and others lousy, when it comes to on-site
support. It depends on the local contractor.
So yes, I've had problems, and yes, Dell did
give me outstanding
support and service.
Again, you got lucky.
I know other people that have good experience. As usual, most people
only hear about the bad experiences.
--
Eric Dittman
dittman(a)dittman.net
Check out the DEC Enthusiasts Club at
http://www.dittman.net/