As far as software for techno... FruityLoops is one that has had my attention for years. I've never really gotten deep into it but essentially it is a sound tracker that you can put many samples on many tracks to create awesome drum and backing tracks, as well as techno type music.

Not sure on the laptop though.. never been a laptop person but I'd say that you're going to need a dual core (or better) processor of a mid to high range speed, with a minimum of 2GB ram and plenty of HD space. I have 1 terabyte which is a little overkill.. may be 500GB or so would be ok...