If you need a laptop CHEAP, Dell:

Inspiron 2200
1.5Ghz Celeron
256MB shared Ram
40GB drive free B/G wireless
DVD ROM / CD Burner
90 Day Warranty
14" screen
XP Home

http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?cs=04&DGSite=qIq2Q4Jv0hKYAkm8tRvu0038386869&kc=66816&oc=S81103s&x=7&y=9

You can get for free from the web:

Anti-virus
Open Office Suite

Not a bad cheap rig (but I would suggest the two year warranty for $80)

Wally-world is going to have HP Pavillion Laptops on sale the Friday after Thanksgiving for $399.....If you can stand the madness