Hey guys, I am currently running an ADK built DAW with firewire 400 using a saffire pro 40 interface.  I am looking to make the jump to a presonus 24.4.2 AI console which runs firewire 800.  Can I upgrade the chip (or whatever) in my existing daw?  and are there  laptops available with the 800 set in them?  or do you buy one and add it?   I am freaking clueless when it comes to computer builds.

You would have to add a FW800 card to the PC.  The existing FW400 can't be upgraded.
 

You may well be able to run the FW 800 unit through a FW400 connection. You are unlikely to notice any significant performance difference by doing so if it works at all. Check with the manufacturer of the new device about general compatibility. But even given a general compatibility there can be unexpected glitches due to software/firmware issues with your current system. I would just plug it in if it fits or via adapter if it doesn't and see if it works as well as you need before you look to add a new interface card.
 
http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/feb08/articles/qa0208_4.htm
 
http://www.lacie.com/download/more/WhitePaper_FireWire_800.pdf

Thanks guys!  That gives me some much needed info and a place to start digging.

just get an SYBA | SY-PEX30016 R ieee1394a/b combo  PCIe card... new egg: $ 23!
two 800 cards listed but this one many DAW users commented works out of the box perfectly!  I use it for my Saffire Pro-24DSP and it's flawless

Thanks guys.  As It turns out... I decided to purchase the 24.4.2 (non-AI) so it is firewire 400.  plug in and play compatibility with my DAW.  No problems at all.
Now....  My Current HP Dv7 Laptop does not even have an express card slot.  so....  kinda S.O.L there as I understand it & need to buy a new laptop.  Any advise you have for me as to what makes/models etc. work pretty well for live recording/limited editing really as most will be done in my main DAW is appreciated.  Again... cluesless over here...  haha

The Presonus 24.2.2 features a "IEEE 1394 FireWire 400 Port".
 
http://www.presonus.com/uploads/products/media/files/Approved_FireWire_Cards.pdf
 
 

I have an ASUS G55VW (DH71) laptop with thunderbolt and a Focusrite Saffire Pro 24 DSP.  I use an Apple FW to TH adapter for the Saffire and all works flawlessly. 
 
Kind regards,
 
Living Room Rocker

Hey Chuck.
 
I've had my StudioLive 16.4.2 for 2-1/2 years now. I think you're going to love it.
 
Not sure if you're on Groove3 or not, [I have the $99 all access pass for a year], but you can go for even just a month at a time for just $15.
 
There's a new video series added on there about a month or so ago, about the 16.4.2 and/or the 24.4.2. 
 
It'd be well worth the $15 to learn all you can right-quick about this new 'toy' of yours!

Thanks Jim,
  At this point I have a pretty good grip on the board itself (and yes, it's pretty cool) so unless there are an abundance of extremely hidden secrets in it, I probably don't need the video at this point.   I appreciate it though!