Netbooks forum: where to start with a netbook

So, I found out from him that his machine is coming with XP. The only regular contact with Windows that he's had is with Vista Home, but I suspect he'll be able to function with it.

I understand the point about getting a laptop instead. Right now, the laptops were over $100 more than the Asus netbook that he ordered, and despite my encouraging him to see it physically before starting, he has already did what he has done.

So to create the restore media, he is going to need to write out to a DVD? I actually need a drive right now, so I guess I could get one and let him create his restore media. If the topic of how to create said media is too far off topic, could someone at least email me a recommendation as to what he needs to do for this?

I buy Netbooks to give away to people overseas who cannot afford them otherwise. This I might add is a Christian outreach we do. The first thing I look for is obviously "price". Netbooks I look at are from $199 to $269. To find these use "refurbished" in your search). All I have ordered were "as new". They meet a "standard" for features to accomplish the tasks they will do. They will almost always have an Atom processor from Intel. This is crucial for power savings. AMD is also available but in a limited manner at this time. It will have 1 GB of ram and a 160gb hard drive. Graphics is integrated. 3 USB ports are common. LAN and wireless are also standard. Web-cam is standard. The units I look for come with a 6 cell battery not 3 cell in the price paid. Standard 120-240 power transformer included. Also multi card reader is in these packages. The screen is usually 10" or 8". Windows XP is also included with service pack 3. Unfortunately for me the virus program of my choice is not included which is AVG Free. This means deleting the installed virus stuff and installing the new stuff. Also any MS Office programs are trial only where Open Office is also free if downloaded and installed. I also disable error reporting (those annoying send Microsoft a message pop ups). Details on how to do that is available online. Sites with these deals that I have dealt with are Newegg.com, Tigerdirect.com, Refurbkingdom.com, Geeks.com and Ecost.com. I am sure there are more out there but this is a good starting point. Hope this helps anyone looking for a good Netbook and God Bless!
.