Hello and thank you in advance for your adviceI would like to ask folks here who use laptops away from a desk what options you use for running Cad applications.  I'm researching a hardware upgrade and have found that I'm not often in a place where a mouse is practical and would love to have less to carry around.  The regular scratchpad that I use (I have a 5yr old Toshiba) works okay for regular web browsing and typing, but for cad, the lack of a scroll-wheel for zoom/pan/orbit makes for much slower (less efficient) work.  Is there a more recent unit (preferably 17") which allows for comfortable mouse-less constructions?The HP 8710w has the user-input that I like, but the processor/ram are not sufficient.Just FYI - while any laptop with 2Gb of RAM is fine for many users, I have a particular distrust of Windows, and so run Linux with Cad running in a virtual machines.  I'm going to be getting Solidworks as well, so this is going to put more stress on the processor than Autocad or Sketchup.ThanksAaron

Since I always transport my laptop in a protective carrying bag I have room for a notepad, drawings, power cord, transformer, small USB storage drive, and a Logitec M500 laptop mouse (and mousepad).
 
I agree, trying to run AutoCAD only using a touchscreen is too frustrating.  I'll suffer the extra weight of a mouse and pad in my bag any day.
 
Dave.

thanks Dave;The issue isn't one of weight (a 17" laptop will weigh more than my current 15.6), but the fact that I'm not always at a desk, and so the computer is literally on my lap.  that said, where does the mouse go?

Do they make a stylus that will work using a laptop's touchpad?  That would give you finer control wouldn't it?

Even when mine is in my lap I usually find somewhere to run the mouse... even if it's on my knee!  I have a 17-in laptop too, and often have to use it in a crowded truck cab out in the field.  I'll always manage to find a place for a mouse.I don't know about the stylus idea.  Wacam tablets are great with Photoshop, but it would just be another piece of gear in cramped space with AutoCAD.  And then I don't know that it would work anyway!Dave.

Hello FriendsI Always use carry bag for carry laptop use good quality carry bag for making your computer more supportable so do one thing just put your laptop on very safe area and for mouse you have o very care full because it also a very sensitive....