Guys, I really need help on buying a laptop computer.

This weekend I started looking around to purchase a laptop computer and I have really no idea what model to buy. Fortunately or unfortunately (depending on your preference) I must buy a PC, not Mac. I would have a few softwares running like Word, Pagemaker ( desk-top publishing), Filemaker Pro, maybe Photoshop and would like the ability to burn Cd's and play DVD's.

I have no idea what models I should look at.... dell's, HP's, Sony's... ?????? Who has the best quality control, warranty, tech support?

Thanks in advance! ;Dr;