The 5.5 lb Compaq Evo n600c laptop was a respectably feature-laden corporate option when it was released almost a decade ago. It came from the factory preinstalled with Windows 2000 Professional, a 20GB hard drive, 128MB of SDRAM, a 14.1 inch screen and a 1.06GHz PIII-M CPU. It lacked integrated wireless, but provided a two-inch-wide silver module on the lid called a MultiPort that supported USB wireless connection option for 802.11b or Bluetooth.

There are a number of hardware upgrades that are recommended for making the most of Compaq Evo n600c laptops still in circulation in your office:

1. Order Evo n600c accessories that add wireless capability to your notebook.
2. Support an upgrade to Windows XP by installing a larger hard drive in your Compaq Evo n600c notebook PC.
3. Install additional Compaq n600c memory for an immediate performance boost.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase a MultiPort or USB adapter to add wireless functionality to your HP Compaq Evo N600c

The Compaq Evo n600c laptop doesn't have built-in wireless support, which immediately limits its business functionality. It does have a modem port, as well as a standard ethernet networking port. The specialized MultiPort will take either a specialized 802.11b wireless adapter, or a Bluetooth adapter. There are also two USB ports which can be used for pretty much anything.

I recommend: The old-school 802.11b wireless adapter for use with the Compaq n600c MultiPort is ridiculously expensive. If you're an accessories purist, you can order it from UpgradeBay.com or Impact Computers & Electronics for between $150 and $200, but it doesn't even support the current Wireless-G standard. You can purchase a wireless USB network adapter for under $20 from Geeks.com or TigerDirect.

Increase the viability of your HP Compaq Evo N600c with a hard drive upgrade

This laptop came preinstalled with Windows 2000 Professional. To ensure the best compatibility modern business applications, it's a good idea to upgrade to Windows XP. 20GB is a very little storage capacity in this day and age. To support a Compaq Evo n600c upgrade to Windows XP, throw in a new hard drive. This model of laptop will recognize up to 120GB hard drive without any problems.

I recommend: You can buy a Western Digital or Seagate 120GB notebook drive from Mwave.com or ZipZoomfly.com for under $60.

Immediately increase performance by upgrading your Compaq Evo n600c RAM

128MB of system RAM will greatly reduce the usability of this laptop. If you are even considering upgrading to Windows XP from the factory-installed Windows 2000 Pro you'll need to purchase additional SDRAM. The Compaq Evo notebook n600c supports a maximum of 1GB of PC133 SDRAM, which would be installed in two 512MB modules. If you're thinking of upgrading to Vista--don't even bother.

I recommend: You can pick up two 512MB modules of PC1200 SDRAM from Memory-Up or Kahlon for around $100.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  As with any older computer, you can extend the life of your Compaq Evo n600c notebook PC by performing regular maintenance. Fully discharge your laptop battery on a monthly basis. Regularly defragment your hard drive. Always have an antivirus and antispyware program installed, and regularly update and run system scans. All of these things will help keep your laptop in the best possible condition.

Compaq released the Evo n600c in 2001, before the company's merger with Hewlett-Packard. The Compaq Evo notebook n600c boasted a 3-hour battery life, 802.11b or Bluetooth wireless capability and a Pentium 3 processor. Business executives considered this 5.2-pound laptop a good find.

With the merger of Compaq and Hewlett-Packard and the release of new technology, the company no longer makes and distributes the Compaq Evo n600c. You can still purchase new and used systems online or from computer retailers who may still have a few in inventory.

If your company has purchased or is considering purchasing a Compaq Evo n600c notebook PC, consider these 3 options:

1. Buy a new or used HP Compaq Evo n600c from large online retailers. Find cheap options that you can upgrade yourself after purchasing a system.

2. Update your existing model with Compaq n600c memory, video card, sound card and other hardware and accessories.

3. Choose another notebook similar to the Compaq Evo notebook n600c. Look for the models that have replaced the n600c.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase a Compaq Evo n600c laptop online or at a local retailer

Shop your local electronics retailers for leftover models in stock and search online for the discontinued Compaq Evo n600c laptop. You might even browse bidding websites, such as eBay, to find a large selection at the price you're willing to spend.

I recommend: Shop eBay to find used and refurbished Evo n600c models at a variety of prices. Browse other online retailers such as Amazon to purchase the Compaq Evo n600c laptop or compare it with other models.

Check the specifications and read the reviews for the Compaq Evo n600c

Have your tech support team read through the manual or tech sheet to find information about Compaq Evo n600c drivers, specifications and overall usage. Read reviews to find out what people think about the computer and make an informed decision based on your new knowledge. According to the PC World review, the model has an easy-to-use keyboard, a high quality combination drive and good speakers, but lacks the extra power of other models in its price class.

I recommend: Look over the Compaq Evo n600c overview and troubleshooting manuals to learn more about the computer's performance, and how to correct some of the basic issues. Compaq Evo n600 drivers can help with some of the incompatibility issues, but contact customer service for extra assistance.

Focus on a Compaq Evo n600c upgrade for your office

Add current Compaq Evo n600c drivers, RAM, hard drives and other internal hardware to keep your system current. The computer can only be upgraded to a certain point, but by maxing it out you ensure it'll last as long as possible.

I recommend: Install a new Compaq Evo n600c video driver and video card and extra RAM to keep your computer running smoothly. Add a new battery and adapter so your computer will run at its full potential while you're commuting from home to the office and anywhere else. Download Compaq Evo n600 drivers at the HP website.

Choose new Evo n600c accessories and programs to enhance your business operations

Along with adding internal upgrades like Compaq Evo n600c RAM, find accessories and software to make your business run a little smoother. Install updated operating systems and office organization programs to stay current in the field and add projectors, speakers and other equipment to make those presentations more effective.

I recommend: Install Microsoft XP Professional--Vista is too intense for the system and lacks support--or Linux to your Compaq Evo n600c model. Add Microsoft Office Small Business to keep your office organized and your business is on its way to becoming more efficient and modern. Consider a new HP printer to keep up with your growing printing needs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Keep an extra Compaq Evo n600c AC adapter at home so you can carry your laptop without lugging around extra accessories. You can easily fit the 5.2 pound n600c in your briefcase or backpack for easy travel.
• •  Make sure to download updated drivers for Compaq Evo n600 models before spending money on tech support--the problem may be as simple as keeping your computer updated.