Dell Vostro 1700 Overview

The 17-inch Dell Vostro 1700 is the largest model in the PC maker’s new Vostro business laptop lineup, launched this week.

The 1700 is built on the Intel “Santa Rosa” platform and features the Core 2 Duo processor, and a choice of GM965 chipset with integrated GMA X3100 graphics or PM965 paired with dedicated NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GS 128MB video card. The Vostro 1700’s 17” widescreen display features 1440×900 or 1920×1200 resolution, depending on your choice.

This notebook is offered with up to 4GB of system memory. The usage of more than 3GB of RAM requires a 64-bit operating system, which is currently not offered on the laptop’s product page. Dell Vostro 1700 comes with up to 320GB of data storage capacity, which is achieved by using two 160GB SATA units at 5400rpm simultaneously.

The networking features are the same as in other Intel-based Vostros. They include wireless LAN supporting 802.11n draft standard optionally, an Ethernet LAN, a 56k modem, an optional Bluetooth, and a choice of AT&T, Sprint and Verizon mobile broadband modules. Additionally, you can purchase the 1700 with a built-in 2 megapixel web camera, mounted on the top of the display panel.

The laptop has an ExpressCard slot, five USB ports, a eight-in-one media card reader, an infra-red sensor, and a Firewire. For external monitor and TV connections, there are VGA and S-Video outputs.

Dell Vostro 1700 model features the same internal components and a chassis shape as Dell Inspiron 1720 notebook for consumers. However, Vostro 1700 is black, while the 1720 comes in eight different colors.
Both models have a numeric keypad, besides a standard keyboard.

Dell Vostro 1700 weighs up to 7.62 lbs, depending on configuration, and is available via the company’s online store. It currently starts at $799 after $100 instant off.

Just read the article and wanted to point out that you do not need to use a 64 bit operating system with 4GB of Ram installed. However, the memory would have to be remapped in the bios before Windows would be able to use all 4GB of Ram. I am almost positive that the Dell bios does not offer the option of remapping the memory. 4 GB would probably show up as around 3.25GB of Ram in either a 32 bit or 64 bit configuration.

I have installed 64 bit on my vostro 1700 with 4 GB RAM.

It shows up as 4 GB of RAM