Sad panda

Do any of you happen to know a lot about computers? I have all but given up on my laptop. The fan is acting like I'm asking it to climb Mt. Everest and the rest of it is working like a whore on Christmas (slow and sporadically).

I've taken the bastard in twice and every time it comes back with no more than a band-aid and a hangover. But this means I'm in the market for a new computer which, if you've been following my goings and goings is not good right now.

I really need a notebook with wireless internet, a fuck ton of RAM (I am all sorts of sick of trying to run more than one application and failing), and something with a CD burner.

I'd really *really* like a DVD burner as well, but I might have to look at doing that later and externally. Fuck.

I use my computer for internet, writing, and watching a ton of DVDs/video clips. I have a habit of storing said clips so I need enough space in there to be a magpie.

I have an HP ze4400 and I'm not really sure I want to go the HP way again. Their customer service people made me less than happy. But if other people have good things to say I'm willing to listen.

Does anyone on my flist have a clue? Or a pat on the head for trying?

~Susan
P.S. Computer shopping may in fact be worse than bra shopping.