The Next Big Thing In Mobile Computing?
Slowly but surely,Gateway laptops are becoming the mobile system of choice for hundreds of thousands computer user. After all, they're reliable, affordable and are available in different series that will suit any prospective laptop computer buyer.
If you're looking for a good desktop computer alternative, then the Gateway® 600 series will be your first consideration in all the Gateway laptops. They're equipped with all the latest tech features that guarantee an impressive performance.
One particular feature that won me over was their impressive stereo sound. You and I know that notebooks usually deliver poor sound but the Gateway® 600 XL, X and S models are an exception. They're pretty bulky though... but yet again, they're meant to be desktop alternatives.
The Gateway® 400 are what I like to refer to as "normal notebooks", i.e. not too bulky and not to small to the point where you struggle with the keyboard! The 400 XL, X, S, SP Gateway laptops are either powered by Intel® Pentium® 4 or Intel® Celeron® processors but still remain highly affordable.
Like all the Gateway notebooks, they come with a 1 year limited warranty which is reassuring if you know how cheeky laptop computers can be!
"The Gateway® 450 blends price, performance, and portability" to quote the manufacturer. Yes, that's a powerful claim however believable if you come across any 450 XL, X and S Gateway laptops.
As thin and light as they are, don't underestimate their processing power though: Mobile Intel® Pentium® 4. However, their weight raised my eye brow. At around 5-6 lbs. they're not particularly light. But you could easily travel with them... just make sure that you have a comfortable laptop bag.
And finally in the Gateway laptops series, is the single model Gateway® 200. Compared to its siblings it's certainly way, lighter(3lb.), more portable and thinner. This is the sort of notebook system that is used by big companies top executives. It's not that cheap but compared to competitive brands it's pretty OK.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Laptop Batteries Online Store Locator and Shopping Advice
Laptop batteries related questions do end up in my inbox not from shoppers but from laptops owners. Many want answers to questions pertaining to the mobile power supply of their laptop computer and the rest just want to know about the places where they can buy them online without any fuss.
From the frequently asked questions, I have jotted down some points that you can look at before you jet off and purchase a laptop computer battery as well as several useful tips that will hopefully benefit you. Before I go on please know that this generally applies to any laptops such as Apple, Toshiba, HP (Hewlett-Packard), Compaq, Sony, Dell, Gateway, IBM, Fujitsu, Panasonic and so on...
(In a hurry? Here's the laptop batteries online store locator!).
Laptop Battery Questions
* Why do I need a main laptop battery? Sometimes the problem might be with another component of your laptop that might be shortening your battery's usual life. But yet again, you might need a spare one for those boring long flights (I made use of 3 in a trip once).
* How long do I need to run your laptop without the AC power source? This will determine what kind of batteries to choose but also to keep in mind that you need to make provision for the charging time.
Additional battery tips
* There are two kinds of laptop batteries: Main: this power battery operates the computer as a whole / Clock Backup: that's self explanatory.
* Lifetime of a laptop batteries can be up to 700 charging cycles
* Do take advantage of guarantees. If something goes wrong, (politely) ask your retailer for a new one.
* New ones will take longer than usual to charge up at first. This is fairly normal so wait before you send a frantic email to your dealer :)
* Your power management features will benefit your laptop and battery. When the computer is passive make sure that less energy consumption is used.
* Keep them clean and far from magnetic elements and away from extremely high temperatures. Think twice before you leave your laptop in a car on a sunny day.
* The more applications you run, the more direct impact it will have on your laptop batteries. Do you really need to have 7 applications running all at once. I am actually speaking for myself here. That's why my battery never lasts an hour and a half :(
* It's a good idea to let your batteries go flat completely and the charge them fully. Also, please recycle. The more responsible people like you this earth's has the better off it will be for our future generations.
That's all I can think of for the moment. If you have any laptop batteries related queries or comments about this article and the site in general, please feel free to drop me a line at: mail @ laptopadvisor.com. Thanks.
From the frequently asked questions, I have jotted down some points that you can look at before you jet off and purchase a laptop computer battery as well as several useful tips that will hopefully benefit you. Before I go on please know that this generally applies to any laptops such as Apple, Toshiba, HP (Hewlett-Packard), Compaq, Sony, Dell, Gateway, IBM, Fujitsu, Panasonic and so on...
(In a hurry? Here's the laptop batteries online store locator!).
Laptop Battery Questions
* Why do I need a main laptop battery? Sometimes the problem might be with another component of your laptop that might be shortening your battery's usual life. But yet again, you might need a spare one for those boring long flights (I made use of 3 in a trip once).
* How long do I need to run your laptop without the AC power source? This will determine what kind of batteries to choose but also to keep in mind that you need to make provision for the charging time.
Additional battery tips
* There are two kinds of laptop batteries: Main: this power battery operates the computer as a whole / Clock Backup: that's self explanatory.
* Lifetime of a laptop batteries can be up to 700 charging cycles
* Do take advantage of guarantees. If something goes wrong, (politely) ask your retailer for a new one.
* New ones will take longer than usual to charge up at first. This is fairly normal so wait before you send a frantic email to your dealer :)
* Your power management features will benefit your laptop and battery. When the computer is passive make sure that less energy consumption is used.
* Keep them clean and far from magnetic elements and away from extremely high temperatures. Think twice before you leave your laptop in a car on a sunny day.
* The more applications you run, the more direct impact it will have on your laptop batteries. Do you really need to have 7 applications running all at once. I am actually speaking for myself here. That's why my battery never lasts an hour and a half :(
* It's a good idea to let your batteries go flat completely and the charge them fully. Also, please recycle. The more responsible people like you this earth's has the better off it will be for our future generations.
That's all I can think of for the moment. If you have any laptop batteries related queries or comments about this article and the site in general, please feel free to drop me a line at: mail @ laptopadvisor.com. Thanks.
Laptop Protection: Safety Tips to Prevent Data Loss or Theft
Laptop protection includes also data security. We�ve already seen how to prevent your notebook from theft and how to protect it from physical damage. This time, discover how to protect your data from loss or theft.
Your data is at the mercy of being lost should your laptop dies, gets into the wrong hands, hacked or stolen. There are so many ways and tools to minimize the risk and damage and we�ll look at a few in this article.
1) Awareness: this is probably the number one laptop protection technique. Being aware that your data is at the mercy of various elements is the first step to ensuring that nothing happens and should it, you will be prepared for it.
For instance, if you back-up your data, never lend your computer to strangers, and never leave it unattended in a public area, chances of data loss or theft will be minimal.
2) Back-up your data: get an external drive, an online storage account, or partition your internal hard drive. There�s no worse feeling that having a problem with your computer and losing all the data.
Depending on your computing habits, you should back-up your data at regular intervals. This is probably the most ignore laptop protection technique which is a pity because computer failure is probably the number one reason for data loss.
3) Prevent anyone from accessing your computer remotely. This has to do with securing your wireless Internet access, firewall and network connectivity. I am not a pro at these kinds of things so, ask a certified professional.
One thing to do though is to be careful when using file sharing software such as Kazaa and so on. By accident, you can let others access files that you don�t want to share and before you know it, they�re all over the net!
4) Passwords: I am guilty of this� It would not take a rocket scientist to guess my computer�s main password (basically, if you know whom I have dated, your task will be easy).
Choosing complex passwords that people other than you can figure out is a good laptop protection measure that will discourage or make it hard to access your data by getting into your computer.
5) Encrypt your data: this laptop protection technique is the one advocated by most IT professionals with a very good reason: if your computer gets stolen or hacked, it will be tough to impossible for thieves and hackers to access the sensitive data.
There are so many software to achieve this and again, ask a certified pro for some insight as I am not really versed into this field to offer relevant advice.
Securing your data is probably the most effective laptop protection measure. Even if your computer ends in the wrong hands, at least your data will be safe. In today�s world where information is power, this is a fair sacrifice in my opinion.
Your data is at the mercy of being lost should your laptop dies, gets into the wrong hands, hacked or stolen. There are so many ways and tools to minimize the risk and damage and we�ll look at a few in this article.
1) Awareness: this is probably the number one laptop protection technique. Being aware that your data is at the mercy of various elements is the first step to ensuring that nothing happens and should it, you will be prepared for it.
For instance, if you back-up your data, never lend your computer to strangers, and never leave it unattended in a public area, chances of data loss or theft will be minimal.
2) Back-up your data: get an external drive, an online storage account, or partition your internal hard drive. There�s no worse feeling that having a problem with your computer and losing all the data.
Depending on your computing habits, you should back-up your data at regular intervals. This is probably the most ignore laptop protection technique which is a pity because computer failure is probably the number one reason for data loss.
3) Prevent anyone from accessing your computer remotely. This has to do with securing your wireless Internet access, firewall and network connectivity. I am not a pro at these kinds of things so, ask a certified professional.
One thing to do though is to be careful when using file sharing software such as Kazaa and so on. By accident, you can let others access files that you don�t want to share and before you know it, they�re all over the net!
4) Passwords: I am guilty of this� It would not take a rocket scientist to guess my computer�s main password (basically, if you know whom I have dated, your task will be easy).
Choosing complex passwords that people other than you can figure out is a good laptop protection measure that will discourage or make it hard to access your data by getting into your computer.
5) Encrypt your data: this laptop protection technique is the one advocated by most IT professionals with a very good reason: if your computer gets stolen or hacked, it will be tough to impossible for thieves and hackers to access the sensitive data.
There are so many software to achieve this and again, ask a certified pro for some insight as I am not really versed into this field to offer relevant advice.
Securing your data is probably the most effective laptop protection measure. Even if your computer ends in the wrong hands, at least your data will be safe. In today�s world where information is power, this is a fair sacrifice in my opinion.
How to buy the best laptop computer
Best laptops shopping secrets
Let's face it, everyone is shopping for the best laptop computer in the whole wide world. I certainly ask myself on a daily basis what the best laptops on the market are and how I can get my hands on one at a given time. In this article, I will explain to you how to spot the best notebook PC ever that will suit your needs.
One thing, I need to tell you upfront is that there is no best laptop in the world. "What?", I hear you ask, "I thought that he was going to reveal to me what the best laptops are!". Dear reader, who is the most beautiful (wo)man in the world? What is the best car on the whole planet? What is the most beautiful country? What's the best movie ever? I hope that you see where I am getting at...
The best laptop computer is the notebook PC that will fulfill all your computing needs without any hassles, glitches and other nightmares that coming with owning computers. If you were expecting me to name the best laptops by giving out specific brands, I am sorry but I will not get into this controversial debate. Bill Gates has his favorite laptop, so does Michael Dell (it better be a Dell laptop :), so do your friends and so do I. If I told you what the best notebook is, I would be merely stating my opinion. And believe me, buying anything especially computers based on someone's sole personal most liked brand can be dangerous to your wallet and overall mobile computing experience.
Fortunately, I have what I call the "best laptop formula". This is a set of characteristics that you should be looking out for to determine what the best laptops are. From this list, one portable PC will make itself stand out and you'll then realize that it's the one. At the risk of sounding dramatic, it's almost like choosing a lifetime companion. Not so dramatic really -- if you think about it... After all, you will have to entrust your precious data into this notebook. It will be with you on the road. In good times and in bad times. So you might as well find and choose the perfect one.
Ten steps to the best laptop computers
Below, I have listed ten qualities that should be present in the best laptops. Read them carefully, think about them for a minute or two and keep them in mind every single time you come across any given laptop and you need to figure out if it is the best one for you.
1)Built around your needs: The best laptop has to have been manufactured with your (mobile) computing needs in mind and not the other way round, i.e.: a computer for which you have to change your habits to get the best experience from it. Yes, it's all about you!
2) Reliability: the best laptops will never let you down. OK maybe sometimes but not 90% of your journey together. If you hear via the grapevine (from expert sources) that the computer you're considering is no good, run before you get too attached.
3) Performance: the best notebook computer will do what you want it to do at any given time and even more. That is its function and that is why you bought it in the first place. Wether you are a heavy gamer, a multi-media pro or just love multi-tasking, your wish and commands will have to be executed fast and without a glitch.
4) Perfect price: the best laptop PCs are well priced. Well priced does not necessarily mean, ridiculously cheap. Sometimes, this can be your very first clue to start being suspicious. The best notebooks are worth what they are and what they can do. The trick is to shop for the merchant with the best price!
5) Maintenance: the best laptops are not a nightmare to maintain. Their after sales service are fast, well done and as painless as possible. You do not want to deal with a dealer or manufacturer who will try and find reasons why the warranty is void or why they need 6 months to repair and return your defective portable computer.
6) Portability: the best notebook will be as thin and light as you need it to be. That's unless you want to use it as a weight training tool too. Of course, if you are looking for a desktop replacement, size and weight are no big deals.
7) Up gradable: the best laptop should be up gradable to a certain extent. Why? Well, as your needs change, you don't want your current portable PC to be useless. Unless, it's well worth the expense.
8)...
I have to interrupt this article. This is because, it's getting long and I don't have space for more points (OK... no more come at this stage :). But, you have more that enough guidelines to help you on your quest in searching for the best laptops. Get clicking and good luck! I hope this article helped. Please send me an e-mail with your experiences: mail [at] laptopadvisor.com. Thanks!
Let's face it, everyone is shopping for the best laptop computer in the whole wide world. I certainly ask myself on a daily basis what the best laptops on the market are and how I can get my hands on one at a given time. In this article, I will explain to you how to spot the best notebook PC ever that will suit your needs.
One thing, I need to tell you upfront is that there is no best laptop in the world. "What?", I hear you ask, "I thought that he was going to reveal to me what the best laptops are!". Dear reader, who is the most beautiful (wo)man in the world? What is the best car on the whole planet? What is the most beautiful country? What's the best movie ever? I hope that you see where I am getting at...
The best laptop computer is the notebook PC that will fulfill all your computing needs without any hassles, glitches and other nightmares that coming with owning computers. If you were expecting me to name the best laptops by giving out specific brands, I am sorry but I will not get into this controversial debate. Bill Gates has his favorite laptop, so does Michael Dell (it better be a Dell laptop :), so do your friends and so do I. If I told you what the best notebook is, I would be merely stating my opinion. And believe me, buying anything especially computers based on someone's sole personal most liked brand can be dangerous to your wallet and overall mobile computing experience.
Fortunately, I have what I call the "best laptop formula". This is a set of characteristics that you should be looking out for to determine what the best laptops are. From this list, one portable PC will make itself stand out and you'll then realize that it's the one. At the risk of sounding dramatic, it's almost like choosing a lifetime companion. Not so dramatic really -- if you think about it... After all, you will have to entrust your precious data into this notebook. It will be with you on the road. In good times and in bad times. So you might as well find and choose the perfect one.
Ten steps to the best laptop computers
Below, I have listed ten qualities that should be present in the best laptops. Read them carefully, think about them for a minute or two and keep them in mind every single time you come across any given laptop and you need to figure out if it is the best one for you.
1)Built around your needs: The best laptop has to have been manufactured with your (mobile) computing needs in mind and not the other way round, i.e.: a computer for which you have to change your habits to get the best experience from it. Yes, it's all about you!
2) Reliability: the best laptops will never let you down. OK maybe sometimes but not 90% of your journey together. If you hear via the grapevine (from expert sources) that the computer you're considering is no good, run before you get too attached.
3) Performance: the best notebook computer will do what you want it to do at any given time and even more. That is its function and that is why you bought it in the first place. Wether you are a heavy gamer, a multi-media pro or just love multi-tasking, your wish and commands will have to be executed fast and without a glitch.
4) Perfect price: the best laptop PCs are well priced. Well priced does not necessarily mean, ridiculously cheap. Sometimes, this can be your very first clue to start being suspicious. The best notebooks are worth what they are and what they can do. The trick is to shop for the merchant with the best price!
5) Maintenance: the best laptops are not a nightmare to maintain. Their after sales service are fast, well done and as painless as possible. You do not want to deal with a dealer or manufacturer who will try and find reasons why the warranty is void or why they need 6 months to repair and return your defective portable computer.
6) Portability: the best notebook will be as thin and light as you need it to be. That's unless you want to use it as a weight training tool too. Of course, if you are looking for a desktop replacement, size and weight are no big deals.
7) Up gradable: the best laptop should be up gradable to a certain extent. Why? Well, as your needs change, you don't want your current portable PC to be useless. Unless, it's well worth the expense.
8)...
I have to interrupt this article. This is because, it's getting long and I don't have space for more points (OK... no more come at this stage :). But, you have more that enough guidelines to help you on your quest in searching for the best laptops. Get clicking and good luck! I hope this article helped. Please send me an e-mail with your experiences: mail [at] laptopadvisor.com. Thanks!
The Best Gaming Laptops
A laptop gaming list, with reviews, and store finder
This page showcases some of the best gaming laptops on the market at the moment (October 2003). The reason behind this article in the first place is that many visitors have been asking me what the best laptop computers for games were. And since, I have only played games with 4 models only, I decided to first compile a list of notebooks that are known to be the ultimate for gamers.
The second way I compiled the gaming laptops list was by going through each of the main laptop computers manufacturers products and selecting (according to the unit's specifications) a notebook that is suitable for laptop gaming. You will notice that the gaming notebooks featured here are displayed in alphabetical order. This is to keep things as unbiased as I possibly can although if you really read between the lines, you will be able to see which one are my favourites :o)
PS - Apologies for the lack of gaming laptops pictures, the article is long enough already so images will make it heavier.
So without any further ado, here are...
The Top Ten Gaming Laptops
1. Acer TravelMate 430
The Acer TravelMate 430 is ideal for laptop gaming because it is purposefully optimised for graphics-hungry game as well as video. It has a powerful and fast processor, Intel Pentium 4 Processor at 3.06 GHz. It features the amazing Ati Mobility Radeon 7500 card which will make displaying those graphics an amazing visual experience.
Sample essential features of the Acer TravelMate 430 gaming laptop PC are: a thermal design that allows more heat dissipation, Audio DJ buttons to help you control the notebook without turning it on, a 3-in-1 card reader that supports Secure Digital , MultiMediaCard and Memory Stick formats and a light and thin design which is really handy if you are a true mobile computer user.
2. Alienware Area-51m
I will not even waste time here. Everybody is calling the Alienware Area-51m the best gaming laptop computer on the market in the Windows world. Reviewers chant its praises and above all gamers who have put the notebook to the test.
The Alienware Area-51m is custom made exclusively for laptop gaming so you can imagine that the people behind it have made sure that you get only the best features and components to maximize your gaming experience. Features such as: user-upgradeable video modules which is very self-explanatory, a fast Pentium 4 processor. a huge display area thanks to the 16.1" LCD screen, dual hard drive support to allow you to switch hard drives back and forth depending on your needs, a performance 19.05mm pitch 88-key keyboard that you will be thankful for if you know how annoying conventional laptop keyboards can be and the 3-in-1 memory card reader.
3. Apple 17-inch PowerBook G4
What can I say about the Apple 17-inch PowerBook G4 without coming across as a fanatic? Well, this notebook is one that you should examine if you not only are a Mac user but also a true "computer gaming head". It was the first 17" laptop ever and was an instant hit among game fans.
The Apple 17-inch PowerBook G4 is very fast and powerful for a laptop. It features a 1.33GHz G4 processor, an ATI Mobility Radeon 9600 graphics processor with 64MB of DDR SDRAM to help you break the speed of visual experience. You can also burn DVDs with it and can be optimised to hold up to 2GB of RAM which in anyone books will be more than enough to handle. Another handy feature that will make you the envy of many is the cool backlit keyboard that will help you see those keys when there isn't enough light for you to see properly.
4. Compaq Presario 3050us
The Compaq Presario 3050us is a true monster notebook. I don't know if HP (the new owners of Compaq) wanted to prove a point that are still strong in the mobile computer game by unleashing such powerful and fast laptop computer. Anyway, when I went over to their site looking for what they had to offer, I immediately added this to this list as the Compaq Presario 3050us truly deserves the attention of laptop gamers.
Here's an overview of this Compaq Presario 3050 notebook: a SiS 650 UMA Graphics 4X AGPand 64MB shared video memory, a rather large 16" SXGA display screen and the ultra powerful and fast 3.06GHz Intel Pentium 4 processor which is a big deal for a laptop at the time of writing. Sadly, it does not feature a DVD writer but you can now very cheap external ones from almost every computer accessories dealers.
5. Dell Inspiron 8500 and 8600 models
I have a friend who owns a Dell Inspiron 8500 and I have seen first hand how perfect it is for laptop gaming purposes. Believe me, with the very nice price, this is one laptop that you should get right away. I don't really want to come across as pushy but this thing is the bomb!
Enough ranting, here's why I rate the Dell Inspiron 8500 as the best among gaming laptops. A mobile Intel Pentium 4-M processor that can be customized to a speed of up to 2.6GHz, 32MB Ati Mobility Radeon 9000, and NVIDIA GeForce4 4200 for video graphics, a hard drive as huge as 80GB and just like the featured Apple 17" (above), up to 2GB of RAM! The only caveat is the weight which at around 6.9 lbs can have an effect on your shoulders if you plan to be on the move a lot.
6. Fujitsu Celsius Mobile H
I hope this does not go down as plagiarism but I feel that the Fujitsu people describe their potential gaming laptop better than I ever could. Here's the quote: "If you run power-hungry 3D business applications that require workstation graphics performance, you'll appreciate the CELSIUS Mobile H mobile workstation. Equipped with the power of NVIDIA's Quadro4 Go GL GPU for real-time rendering of 3D OpenGL graphics, complex simulations, and multimedia animations, the CELSIUS Mobile H mobile workstation offers powerful mobility encased in an elegant and functional design. The system delivers the workstation-level performance required by your most demanding applications with every powerful component - from the fast Intel® Pentium® 4 processor to the ultra-high resolution LCD display"
The other features that characterize gaming laptops that they have left out of the above well written paragraph, are: 15" UXGA display area, a 5400RPM 60Gb hard drive, and a three-year international limited warranty which is god sent for those who travel regularly overseas.
7. Gateway M350XL
What so unique about the Gateway® M350XL to make it part of this gaming laptops list? Well, for one I have to feature a Gateway laptop and secondly this laptop has all the specifications that the best gaming laptops should have: a large display screen, a huge hard drive, a quality video card and a powerful processor to work on those intense graphics as fast and furiously as possible.
8. HP Pavilion ZD7001us
This HP Pavilion ZD7001us features a huge 17" WXGA+ TFT display screen so rest assured that you will have the best visual laptop gaming experience if you choose to take one home with you. The graphics will be more than crisp clear thanks to the NVIDIA GeForce FX Go5600. The HP Ppavilion ZD7001 comes full featured with a DVD writer which is a feature that gaming laptops should all have in my opinion. Oh... did I even mention how it will devour other gaming laptops with a Intel Pentium 4 processor 3.06GHz with Hyper-Threading?
9. Sony VAIO GRT 250/270 Series
The Sony GRT series (especially the 250 and the 270) are ideal gaming laptops thanks to their powerful processors of course but also because generally Sony laptops seem to be optimised for multi-media application according to industry professionals. I don't know if it's really true of it is just a perception but I would not be surprised given that Sony's other electronic products do include video and music.
With the GRT series, you can get display screen of up to 16.1” UXGA and NVIDIA® GeForce4™ FX Go 5600 64 MB video DDR SGRAM for graphics perfection, a large hard drive... Basically, all the essential specs that are found on gaming laptops.
10. Toshiba P25 Series
I don't know if I am right in saying this but I think (and I am not sure at all) that the Toshiba P25 series were the second laptops to feature 17.0" diagonal Wide-Screen XGA display after the 17" PowerBook from Apple.
The features that make them ideal gaming laptops are: Intel Pentium 4 Processor with Hyper-Threading technology, DVD multi drive , NVIDIA® GeForce™ FX Go5200 GPU w/64MB DDR SDRAM, and rather fast and huge 80GB 5,400rpm hard drives.
Where to buy gaming laptops
So there you have it. My list of the top 10 gaming laptops on the market at the moment. Again, please note that the list is compiled by me according to my views of the laptop gaming world. This should basically be used as a guideline for the kind of notebooks you should be shopping for if gaming is your primary computing activity. It was fun putting it together and will update it just before Christmas if need be.
Now, below is a list of dealers where the computers featured in my top 10 gaming laptops list can be purchased from. These are dealers I recommend to my friends and visitors because I know that they not only offer the best prices but also the best service. Happy shopping!
This page showcases some of the best gaming laptops on the market at the moment (October 2003). The reason behind this article in the first place is that many visitors have been asking me what the best laptop computers for games were. And since, I have only played games with 4 models only, I decided to first compile a list of notebooks that are known to be the ultimate for gamers.
The second way I compiled the gaming laptops list was by going through each of the main laptop computers manufacturers products and selecting (according to the unit's specifications) a notebook that is suitable for laptop gaming. You will notice that the gaming notebooks featured here are displayed in alphabetical order. This is to keep things as unbiased as I possibly can although if you really read between the lines, you will be able to see which one are my favourites :o)
PS - Apologies for the lack of gaming laptops pictures, the article is long enough already so images will make it heavier.
So without any further ado, here are...
The Top Ten Gaming Laptops
1. Acer TravelMate 430
The Acer TravelMate 430 is ideal for laptop gaming because it is purposefully optimised for graphics-hungry game as well as video. It has a powerful and fast processor, Intel Pentium 4 Processor at 3.06 GHz. It features the amazing Ati Mobility Radeon 7500 card which will make displaying those graphics an amazing visual experience.
Sample essential features of the Acer TravelMate 430 gaming laptop PC are: a thermal design that allows more heat dissipation, Audio DJ buttons to help you control the notebook without turning it on, a 3-in-1 card reader that supports Secure Digital , MultiMediaCard and Memory Stick formats and a light and thin design which is really handy if you are a true mobile computer user.
2. Alienware Area-51m
I will not even waste time here. Everybody is calling the Alienware Area-51m the best gaming laptop computer on the market in the Windows world. Reviewers chant its praises and above all gamers who have put the notebook to the test.
The Alienware Area-51m is custom made exclusively for laptop gaming so you can imagine that the people behind it have made sure that you get only the best features and components to maximize your gaming experience. Features such as: user-upgradeable video modules which is very self-explanatory, a fast Pentium 4 processor. a huge display area thanks to the 16.1" LCD screen, dual hard drive support to allow you to switch hard drives back and forth depending on your needs, a performance 19.05mm pitch 88-key keyboard that you will be thankful for if you know how annoying conventional laptop keyboards can be and the 3-in-1 memory card reader.
3. Apple 17-inch PowerBook G4
What can I say about the Apple 17-inch PowerBook G4 without coming across as a fanatic? Well, this notebook is one that you should examine if you not only are a Mac user but also a true "computer gaming head". It was the first 17" laptop ever and was an instant hit among game fans.
The Apple 17-inch PowerBook G4 is very fast and powerful for a laptop. It features a 1.33GHz G4 processor, an ATI Mobility Radeon 9600 graphics processor with 64MB of DDR SDRAM to help you break the speed of visual experience. You can also burn DVDs with it and can be optimised to hold up to 2GB of RAM which in anyone books will be more than enough to handle. Another handy feature that will make you the envy of many is the cool backlit keyboard that will help you see those keys when there isn't enough light for you to see properly.
4. Compaq Presario 3050us
The Compaq Presario 3050us is a true monster notebook. I don't know if HP (the new owners of Compaq) wanted to prove a point that are still strong in the mobile computer game by unleashing such powerful and fast laptop computer. Anyway, when I went over to their site looking for what they had to offer, I immediately added this to this list as the Compaq Presario 3050us truly deserves the attention of laptop gamers.
Here's an overview of this Compaq Presario 3050 notebook: a SiS 650 UMA Graphics 4X AGPand 64MB shared video memory, a rather large 16" SXGA display screen and the ultra powerful and fast 3.06GHz Intel Pentium 4 processor which is a big deal for a laptop at the time of writing. Sadly, it does not feature a DVD writer but you can now very cheap external ones from almost every computer accessories dealers.
5. Dell Inspiron 8500 and 8600 models
I have a friend who owns a Dell Inspiron 8500 and I have seen first hand how perfect it is for laptop gaming purposes. Believe me, with the very nice price, this is one laptop that you should get right away. I don't really want to come across as pushy but this thing is the bomb!
Enough ranting, here's why I rate the Dell Inspiron 8500 as the best among gaming laptops. A mobile Intel Pentium 4-M processor that can be customized to a speed of up to 2.6GHz, 32MB Ati Mobility Radeon 9000, and NVIDIA GeForce4 4200 for video graphics, a hard drive as huge as 80GB and just like the featured Apple 17" (above), up to 2GB of RAM! The only caveat is the weight which at around 6.9 lbs can have an effect on your shoulders if you plan to be on the move a lot.
6. Fujitsu Celsius Mobile H
I hope this does not go down as plagiarism but I feel that the Fujitsu people describe their potential gaming laptop better than I ever could. Here's the quote: "If you run power-hungry 3D business applications that require workstation graphics performance, you'll appreciate the CELSIUS Mobile H mobile workstation. Equipped with the power of NVIDIA's Quadro4 Go GL GPU for real-time rendering of 3D OpenGL graphics, complex simulations, and multimedia animations, the CELSIUS Mobile H mobile workstation offers powerful mobility encased in an elegant and functional design. The system delivers the workstation-level performance required by your most demanding applications with every powerful component - from the fast Intel® Pentium® 4 processor to the ultra-high resolution LCD display"
The other features that characterize gaming laptops that they have left out of the above well written paragraph, are: 15" UXGA display area, a 5400RPM 60Gb hard drive, and a three-year international limited warranty which is god sent for those who travel regularly overseas.
7. Gateway M350XL
What so unique about the Gateway® M350XL to make it part of this gaming laptops list? Well, for one I have to feature a Gateway laptop and secondly this laptop has all the specifications that the best gaming laptops should have: a large display screen, a huge hard drive, a quality video card and a powerful processor to work on those intense graphics as fast and furiously as possible.
8. HP Pavilion ZD7001us
This HP Pavilion ZD7001us features a huge 17" WXGA+ TFT display screen so rest assured that you will have the best visual laptop gaming experience if you choose to take one home with you. The graphics will be more than crisp clear thanks to the NVIDIA GeForce FX Go5600. The HP Ppavilion ZD7001 comes full featured with a DVD writer which is a feature that gaming laptops should all have in my opinion. Oh... did I even mention how it will devour other gaming laptops with a Intel Pentium 4 processor 3.06GHz with Hyper-Threading?
9. Sony VAIO GRT 250/270 Series
The Sony GRT series (especially the 250 and the 270) are ideal gaming laptops thanks to their powerful processors of course but also because generally Sony laptops seem to be optimised for multi-media application according to industry professionals. I don't know if it's really true of it is just a perception but I would not be surprised given that Sony's other electronic products do include video and music.
With the GRT series, you can get display screen of up to 16.1” UXGA and NVIDIA® GeForce4™ FX Go 5600 64 MB video DDR SGRAM for graphics perfection, a large hard drive... Basically, all the essential specs that are found on gaming laptops.
10. Toshiba P25 Series
I don't know if I am right in saying this but I think (and I am not sure at all) that the Toshiba P25 series were the second laptops to feature 17.0" diagonal Wide-Screen XGA display after the 17" PowerBook from Apple.
The features that make them ideal gaming laptops are: Intel Pentium 4 Processor with Hyper-Threading technology, DVD multi drive , NVIDIA® GeForce™ FX Go5200 GPU w/64MB DDR SDRAM, and rather fast and huge 80GB 5,400rpm hard drives.
Where to buy gaming laptops
So there you have it. My list of the top 10 gaming laptops on the market at the moment. Again, please note that the list is compiled by me according to my views of the laptop gaming world. This should basically be used as a guideline for the kind of notebooks you should be shopping for if gaming is your primary computing activity. It was fun putting it together and will update it just before Christmas if need be.
Now, below is a list of dealers where the computers featured in my top 10 gaming laptops list can be purchased from. These are dealers I recommend to my friends and visitors because I know that they not only offer the best prices but also the best service. Happy shopping!
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
7 Good Reasons For Buying A Laptop Online
Laptops are becoming increasingly popular with consumers mainly because laptops offer excellent portability, convenience and performance in one small package. You can take your handy little laptop anywhere; no matter whether you're just going into the next room or going around the world.
Laptops or notebook computers are the ultimate high tech gadgets of our time. They offer a tremendous amount of technology in a small versatile machine: you can surf the web, you can watch movies or play games, you can create graphics or do a spreadsheet, you can write your next novel or write your latest school report, you can listen to music or connect directly by webcam to all your friends... anywhere, anytime. These are just a few of the things you can do on your laptop.
And those are all good solid reasons why you should be considering buying a laptop if you're in the market for a personal computer. Now here are some reasons why you should make that laptop purchase ONLINE.
1. Convenience
Buying your laptop online is very convenient. You can sit in your living room and order one of these technical marvels within a few minutes. Granted, visiting your local mall or tech shop will give you an opportunity to examine your future purchase first-hand, but for many buyers in distant or remote locations this is not an option.
Online shopping makes it convenient for everyone to buy their laptop, no matter where they live. It gives everyone the same deals and specials that they normally would not get without the Internet. It is a form of 'Shopping Democracy' in action.
Forget long drives to a busy mall, high gas prices, crowded stores... ordering and buying your laptop from the comfort of your living room or your home office offers great convenience and satisfaction.
2. Better Selection
Shopping online for your notebook offers you a greater selection. Actually, these days just about any laptop invented can be bought online. Your selection will be much greater than you can get in a brick and mortar store.
Most major laptop stores and manufacturers have online outlets so finding a merchant to suit your requirements will be very easy to do. Finding and configuring your perfect laptop will be much simpler if you do it online. You can take your time and you won't be rushed by impatient customers waiting in the line behind you or frustrated by a pushy sales clerk in front of you!
3. Laptop Reviews
Perhaps, one of the best aspects of buying your laptop on the web, are all the reviews and customer ratings you can examine before making your final decision. The Internet is a vast warehouse of reviews and customer ratings on the products you want to buy. Third party review sites and online notebook guides are also helpful when you're looking for general information on purchasing a laptop or computer.
Many online stores have customer feedback and reviews which are extremely helpful. Whether positive or negative these reviews will guide you in making a better purchasing decision. So you should take full advantage of these online laptop reviews and sites.
4. Comparison Shopping
Compare before you buy. Another obvious benefit of buying your laptop online, you can compare all the different prices and stores before you buy. The Internet makes this much more convenient than driving around in the real world to four or five stores just to get the best price.
Online shopping offers you a great chance to do some serious comparison shopping before you buy. Surf around and save your money.
5. Best Pricing
Online stores offer very competitive pricing, mainly because there are no overheads or expenses these stores have to keep. Everything is automated and computerized which can mean bigger savings and lower prices for anyone buying online. It is more like buying from a warehouse outlet than a retail store. You will get a lower price.
Keep in mind, any online store will have a huge consumer base (the whole world in most cases) that their volume levels may be extremely high so offering lower prices is within reason and good business.
6. Laptop Coupons
Many major online laptop sellers such as Dell, HP, Toshiba do offer online coupons and special sales which can mean tremendous savings or discounts for the average buyer. In many cases these coupons or deals are only available online so it really pays to buy your laptop from the web.
7. Free Shipping
Free shipping is also offered by many online retailers and notebook manufacturers. This is another reason why buying online can prove beneficial. UPS or next day shipping is often available, although if you're having your laptop configured or created to your own specifications it usually takes longer to receive your purchase.
So the next time you're thinking about buying a laptop, consider buying it online. It will not only be more convenient but you will also have a wider selection, better pricing, and all the reviews and customer feedback you will need to make a wise decision. Moreover, it doesn't matter where you live, you can comparison shop to find the best deal to suit your needs. Plus, if you check around, you can get free shipping thrown in as an extra reason to buy your laptop online.
Laptops or notebook computers are the ultimate high tech gadgets of our time. They offer a tremendous amount of technology in a small versatile machine: you can surf the web, you can watch movies or play games, you can create graphics or do a spreadsheet, you can write your next novel or write your latest school report, you can listen to music or connect directly by webcam to all your friends... anywhere, anytime. These are just a few of the things you can do on your laptop.
And those are all good solid reasons why you should be considering buying a laptop if you're in the market for a personal computer. Now here are some reasons why you should make that laptop purchase ONLINE.
1. Convenience
Buying your laptop online is very convenient. You can sit in your living room and order one of these technical marvels within a few minutes. Granted, visiting your local mall or tech shop will give you an opportunity to examine your future purchase first-hand, but for many buyers in distant or remote locations this is not an option.
Online shopping makes it convenient for everyone to buy their laptop, no matter where they live. It gives everyone the same deals and specials that they normally would not get without the Internet. It is a form of 'Shopping Democracy' in action.
Forget long drives to a busy mall, high gas prices, crowded stores... ordering and buying your laptop from the comfort of your living room or your home office offers great convenience and satisfaction.
2. Better Selection
Shopping online for your notebook offers you a greater selection. Actually, these days just about any laptop invented can be bought online. Your selection will be much greater than you can get in a brick and mortar store.
Most major laptop stores and manufacturers have online outlets so finding a merchant to suit your requirements will be very easy to do. Finding and configuring your perfect laptop will be much simpler if you do it online. You can take your time and you won't be rushed by impatient customers waiting in the line behind you or frustrated by a pushy sales clerk in front of you!
3. Laptop Reviews
Perhaps, one of the best aspects of buying your laptop on the web, are all the reviews and customer ratings you can examine before making your final decision. The Internet is a vast warehouse of reviews and customer ratings on the products you want to buy. Third party review sites and online notebook guides are also helpful when you're looking for general information on purchasing a laptop or computer.
Many online stores have customer feedback and reviews which are extremely helpful. Whether positive or negative these reviews will guide you in making a better purchasing decision. So you should take full advantage of these online laptop reviews and sites.
4. Comparison Shopping
Compare before you buy. Another obvious benefit of buying your laptop online, you can compare all the different prices and stores before you buy. The Internet makes this much more convenient than driving around in the real world to four or five stores just to get the best price.
Online shopping offers you a great chance to do some serious comparison shopping before you buy. Surf around and save your money.
5. Best Pricing
Online stores offer very competitive pricing, mainly because there are no overheads or expenses these stores have to keep. Everything is automated and computerized which can mean bigger savings and lower prices for anyone buying online. It is more like buying from a warehouse outlet than a retail store. You will get a lower price.
Keep in mind, any online store will have a huge consumer base (the whole world in most cases) that their volume levels may be extremely high so offering lower prices is within reason and good business.
6. Laptop Coupons
Many major online laptop sellers such as Dell, HP, Toshiba do offer online coupons and special sales which can mean tremendous savings or discounts for the average buyer. In many cases these coupons or deals are only available online so it really pays to buy your laptop from the web.
7. Free Shipping
Free shipping is also offered by many online retailers and notebook manufacturers. This is another reason why buying online can prove beneficial. UPS or next day shipping is often available, although if you're having your laptop configured or created to your own specifications it usually takes longer to receive your purchase.
So the next time you're thinking about buying a laptop, consider buying it online. It will not only be more convenient but you will also have a wider selection, better pricing, and all the reviews and customer feedback you will need to make a wise decision. Moreover, it doesn't matter where you live, you can comparison shop to find the best deal to suit your needs. Plus, if you check around, you can get free shipping thrown in as an extra reason to buy your laptop online.
How To Choose A Perfect Laptop
If you want to buy a new laptop then it is a good idea to find all the possible information about prices and configuration. The price of the laptop depends on it`s brand and configuration. You should try to find some online stores as most of them offer free gifts and discount coupons. Don`t always look for latest technology as you can buy older laptops with good technology for lower prices.
Before buying any type of computer you should know your needs. A laptop with 512 MB memory mostly runs all the applications. If you are a gamer you should also inquire for graphic memory. Latest processors available in the market are dual processors. The next thing which you need to know while buying a notebook for you is the speed of the processor.
If you you are having a low budget you can opt for second hand laptops. A one year old notebook can be bought for a reasonable price. If you are confused among several brands then it will be a good idea to visit a website or a blog which regularly write latest laptop reviews. Nowadays laptops are easier to afford and play the role of your office assistant as well as your entertainment power house. Now you can buy a computer for every lifestyle. Today`s laptops are better equipped than ever. Notebook PCs are always known for their portability and excellent performance. Follow the instructions which you have read in this article and you are ready to buy a laptop.
Before buying any type of computer you should know your needs. A laptop with 512 MB memory mostly runs all the applications. If you are a gamer you should also inquire for graphic memory. Latest processors available in the market are dual processors. The next thing which you need to know while buying a notebook for you is the speed of the processor.
If you you are having a low budget you can opt for second hand laptops. A one year old notebook can be bought for a reasonable price. If you are confused among several brands then it will be a good idea to visit a website or a blog which regularly write latest laptop reviews. Nowadays laptops are easier to afford and play the role of your office assistant as well as your entertainment power house. Now you can buy a computer for every lifestyle. Today`s laptops are better equipped than ever. Notebook PCs are always known for their portability and excellent performance. Follow the instructions which you have read in this article and you are ready to buy a laptop.
Laptop Computer
A laptop computer, usually called a notebook computer by manufacturers, is a battery- or AC-powered personal computer generally smaller than a briefcase that can easily be transported and conveniently used in temporary spaces such as on airplanes, in libraries, temporary offices, and at meetings. A laptop typically weighs less than 5 pounds and is 3 inches or less in thickness. Among the best-known makers of laptop computers are IBM, Apple, Compaq, Dell, and Toshiba.
Laptop computers generally cost more than desktop computers with the same capabilities because they are more difficult to design and manufacture. A laptop can effectively be turned into a desktop computer with a docking station, a hardware frame that supplies connections for peripheral input/output devices such as a printer or larger monitor. The less capable port replicator allows you to connect a laptop to a number of peripherals through a single plug.
Laptops usually come with displays that use thin-screen technology. The thin film transistor or active matrix screen is brighter and views better at different angles than the STN or dual-scan screen. Laptops use several different approaches for integrating a mouse into the keyboard, including the touch pad, the trackball, and the pointing stick. A serial port also allows a regular mouse to be attached. The PC Card is insertable hardware for adding a modem or network interface card to a laptop. CD-ROM and digital versatile disc drives may be built-in or attachable.
Laptop computers generally cost more than desktop computers with the same capabilities because they are more difficult to design and manufacture. A laptop can effectively be turned into a desktop computer with a docking station, a hardware frame that supplies connections for peripheral input/output devices such as a printer or larger monitor. The less capable port replicator allows you to connect a laptop to a number of peripherals through a single plug.
Laptops usually come with displays that use thin-screen technology. The thin film transistor or active matrix screen is brighter and views better at different angles than the STN or dual-scan screen. Laptops use several different approaches for integrating a mouse into the keyboard, including the touch pad, the trackball, and the pointing stick. A serial port also allows a regular mouse to be attached. The PC Card is insertable hardware for adding a modem or network interface card to a laptop. CD-ROM and digital versatile disc drives may be built-in or attachable.
Laptops And Entertainment Are Growing
Mobile, mobile, and mobile. Everything goes mobile nowadays. Demand for hand phones is higher than demand for traditional phones. There is no difference with laptop. Demand for mobile computer (laptop) is now higher than demand for desktop computer. Who have predicted earlier about this trend? If now is still year 1999, maybe no one ever predicted this trend.
Like it or not, we must follow this trend. Everyone needs to follow the latest trend of technology. If not, your life will be "doomed". Through the last few months, even big computer companies have released many thin laptops. This is happening because many people need lighter laptops. With busier lifestyles for everyone, we need instant products. This is crazy but even some people order meals online or by phone and these foods delivered to their home (or office)!
Mobile entertainment is also following this trend. Mobile entertainment can be categorized into several parts. First, online gaming. You can see many gaming laptops with unlimited internet usage from everywhere. Now many people play online games from their laptops even if they are not in their home. You can say this is mobile entertainment, of course.
Other benefits of mobile technology are VOIP and better webcam quality. These days it is very easy to find cheap and good webcam then use this webcam when we chat with our friends everywhere. Of course this is another mobile entertainment because it's enjoyable to chat directly with our friends through webcam (rather than if we are just typing in MSN or Yahoo Messenger). Mobile entertainment will continue to grow just like mobile laptop computer which now is a very popular thing.
If you are searching for new best laptops for your business and entertainment needs, you can buy best laptop computers online. You might also need laptop guide & tips to add more knowledge about this mobile hardware.
Like it or not, we must follow this trend. Everyone needs to follow the latest trend of technology. If not, your life will be "doomed". Through the last few months, even big computer companies have released many thin laptops. This is happening because many people need lighter laptops. With busier lifestyles for everyone, we need instant products. This is crazy but even some people order meals online or by phone and these foods delivered to their home (or office)!
Mobile entertainment is also following this trend. Mobile entertainment can be categorized into several parts. First, online gaming. You can see many gaming laptops with unlimited internet usage from everywhere. Now many people play online games from their laptops even if they are not in their home. You can say this is mobile entertainment, of course.
Other benefits of mobile technology are VOIP and better webcam quality. These days it is very easy to find cheap and good webcam then use this webcam when we chat with our friends everywhere. Of course this is another mobile entertainment because it's enjoyable to chat directly with our friends through webcam (rather than if we are just typing in MSN or Yahoo Messenger). Mobile entertainment will continue to grow just like mobile laptop computer which now is a very popular thing.
If you are searching for new best laptops for your business and entertainment needs, you can buy best laptop computers online. You might also need laptop guide & tips to add more knowledge about this mobile hardware.
Free Laptop For Students
A computer or laptop machine is now essential equipment for every student in his or studies. With the latest technology and easy reference that the Internet is providing any school works or papers, the rate on the need for a computer or laptop is now heightening. However, not all students can afford to buy their own computer or laptop as it is very expensive to buy one. So, most students are now aiming for the opportunity of securing a free laptop for their studies.
All levels of students would want to achieve free laptop opportunity. Students in colleges, high schools, and middle schools would always prefer to access the Internet for their school assignments. They believe that Internet is always the best source and most convenient source of any information as compared to the school library. It only proves that Internet technology is now becoming a vast necessity for every student on their school assignments. Students also believe that Internet is the biggest data of information where they can get every bit of information to be more advanced and sophisticated. Also, the students also loved researching for unlimited information to satisfy their curiosity and answers on a particular topic. There are some institutions, corporate houses and organization that give away free laptops to deserving students.
This idea does not literally means of supplying or providing freebees. It refers to the giving of free laptop to students in college or university whenever there is a need. The computers or laptops have been a basic necessity for all learning environments. Among the institutions that provide laptops include some corporate businesses, foundations and grants. However, the granting of machines for students still needs to pass certain criteria prior to granting. It iss is also part of some online promotional services that often give away some products that include computers or laptops just by participating their marketing campaigns.
The tremendous need for a computer or laptop machine by individuals especially the students only proves that there is an extreme need of technology. This is one big realization for more organizations to be generous and charitable enough in providing free laptop for students. These organizations should realize that their help is needed by students who cannot afford the utilization or owning of a computer or laptop machine.
All levels of students would want to achieve free laptop opportunity. Students in colleges, high schools, and middle schools would always prefer to access the Internet for their school assignments. They believe that Internet is always the best source and most convenient source of any information as compared to the school library. It only proves that Internet technology is now becoming a vast necessity for every student on their school assignments. Students also believe that Internet is the biggest data of information where they can get every bit of information to be more advanced and sophisticated. Also, the students also loved researching for unlimited information to satisfy their curiosity and answers on a particular topic. There are some institutions, corporate houses and organization that give away free laptops to deserving students.
This idea does not literally means of supplying or providing freebees. It refers to the giving of free laptop to students in college or university whenever there is a need. The computers or laptops have been a basic necessity for all learning environments. Among the institutions that provide laptops include some corporate businesses, foundations and grants. However, the granting of machines for students still needs to pass certain criteria prior to granting. It iss is also part of some online promotional services that often give away some products that include computers or laptops just by participating their marketing campaigns.
The tremendous need for a computer or laptop machine by individuals especially the students only proves that there is an extreme need of technology. This is one big realization for more organizations to be generous and charitable enough in providing free laptop for students. These organizations should realize that their help is needed by students who cannot afford the utilization or owning of a computer or laptop machine.
Gaming Laptop
In the previous years, laptop was never an option for any gaming software because of its capacity. However, as the years passed by, things have been changed. Laptop is now being use as one form play toy for most people especially for males. The laptop used in computer gaming is called a gaming laptop.
Nowadays, the gaming laptop has the power to cope up with the high-graphics generation of 3D gaming as well as other intensive software applications. Aside from the advantage of unique portability, it has now became the most demanded gaming hardware in the market today as compared to desktop computers. A gaming laptop is truly a very versatile approach when it comes to the booming market of online games as well as other PC games.
Technology is increasing fast everyday. With this, you need to be aware on how to choose the best gaming laptop for yourself. The most important thing is for you to have the basic knowledge and understanding on what are the factors you should look for or consider when choosing or buying a gaming laptop of your own. Among these factors include the processor power, the Random Access Memory or the RAM, the graphics card, the screen clarity, the battery life and the pricing.
The processor power serves as the engine of the the machine. It is the most vital component of the laptop where it should be a dual core processor. A dual core processor is very expensive but you can be assured that your gaming laptop will be in good stead in the succeeding months. Nevertheless, if you can't afford a dual core processor, you may look into consideration of using minimum processor speed of 1.8 mega hertz. The Random Access Memory or the RAM is one component that is being overlooked by any buyer of a gaming laptop. It is important to choose for the 1MB or 2MB RAM as its functions work with the processor. Once you have a better RAM, it will work better in all the important frames. For the graphics card, always give your best decision on this. The graphics card is a great identification between a gaming laptop and desktop PC. Always ensure on the upgrade ability of the graphics you are planning to buy. However, in laptops it's quite difficult to upgrade graphics card as it comes with on-board graphics cards. With this, it is highly recommendable that you should buy Geforce or Radeon. Screen clarity and quality is important to a gaming laptop for you to have long gaming sessions as well as comfortableness. It is important for the image qualities of your gaming laptop.
The battery life is as important as other factors above when buying it. Look for the battery that can lasts up 6 hours without any source of wired power. Finally, the pricing, always look for the best yet affordable laptop pricing.
Nowadays, the gaming laptop has the power to cope up with the high-graphics generation of 3D gaming as well as other intensive software applications. Aside from the advantage of unique portability, it has now became the most demanded gaming hardware in the market today as compared to desktop computers. A gaming laptop is truly a very versatile approach when it comes to the booming market of online games as well as other PC games.
Technology is increasing fast everyday. With this, you need to be aware on how to choose the best gaming laptop for yourself. The most important thing is for you to have the basic knowledge and understanding on what are the factors you should look for or consider when choosing or buying a gaming laptop of your own. Among these factors include the processor power, the Random Access Memory or the RAM, the graphics card, the screen clarity, the battery life and the pricing.
The processor power serves as the engine of the the machine. It is the most vital component of the laptop where it should be a dual core processor. A dual core processor is very expensive but you can be assured that your gaming laptop will be in good stead in the succeeding months. Nevertheless, if you can't afford a dual core processor, you may look into consideration of using minimum processor speed of 1.8 mega hertz. The Random Access Memory or the RAM is one component that is being overlooked by any buyer of a gaming laptop. It is important to choose for the 1MB or 2MB RAM as its functions work with the processor. Once you have a better RAM, it will work better in all the important frames. For the graphics card, always give your best decision on this. The graphics card is a great identification between a gaming laptop and desktop PC. Always ensure on the upgrade ability of the graphics you are planning to buy. However, in laptops it's quite difficult to upgrade graphics card as it comes with on-board graphics cards. With this, it is highly recommendable that you should buy Geforce or Radeon. Screen clarity and quality is important to a gaming laptop for you to have long gaming sessions as well as comfortableness. It is important for the image qualities of your gaming laptop.
The battery life is as important as other factors above when buying it. Look for the battery that can lasts up 6 hours without any source of wired power. Finally, the pricing, always look for the best yet affordable laptop pricing.
Laptop Ratings
Do you know that there are the so-called laptop ratings? In deciding to buy or purchase a laptop of your own, it is recommended that you should read some ratings as well as reviews over the Internet. Reading and participating some online forums can also be helpful for your decision. These are not only available online but it can also be found on some computer magazines. However, in reading them, you need to be sure that they are based on actual facts as well as good characteristics accordingly to the need of the user, upgradeable, portability, service and support, price, performance and reliability.
There some Internet sites as well as computer magazines offering ratings and publicity stunts just because of business purposes. Be careful in believing on these as you might get overwhelmed while reading the reviews. In laptop ratings and reviews, there should be some varied categories as well as complete variants that are available in the market. There are some reviews incurred with famous models of good marketing. These models do give the laptop ratings and reviews they have bought and they give information that is very powerful enough to convince an attempting buyer of laptop. In the end, cases happened that the laptop brand is not good enough as a machine.
You should be aware that the best and actual reviews do come from the actual users. You must looked into the online forums where actual users of laptop post their views about the brand product they have bought. These users also provide the proper feedback that you can use as basis for your decision of buying a laptop of your own. Also, you should check out for the users that have the same habit and situations just like you where you can base your laptop ratings and reviews before finally deciding to buy your own laptop. As soon as you get satisfied with the laptop ratings and reviews you have viewed, the next step you should do before buying is to locate the best dealer as well as check the best price possible. For real time, check for some featured laptop model provided by top computer brands in most of their websites. In most cases, the laptop ratings are usually given based on the features of the laptop whereas features serve as major factors for the laptop ratings.
There some Internet sites as well as computer magazines offering ratings and publicity stunts just because of business purposes. Be careful in believing on these as you might get overwhelmed while reading the reviews. In laptop ratings and reviews, there should be some varied categories as well as complete variants that are available in the market. There are some reviews incurred with famous models of good marketing. These models do give the laptop ratings and reviews they have bought and they give information that is very powerful enough to convince an attempting buyer of laptop. In the end, cases happened that the laptop brand is not good enough as a machine.
You should be aware that the best and actual reviews do come from the actual users. You must looked into the online forums where actual users of laptop post their views about the brand product they have bought. These users also provide the proper feedback that you can use as basis for your decision of buying a laptop of your own. Also, you should check out for the users that have the same habit and situations just like you where you can base your laptop ratings and reviews before finally deciding to buy your own laptop. As soon as you get satisfied with the laptop ratings and reviews you have viewed, the next step you should do before buying is to locate the best dealer as well as check the best price possible. For real time, check for some featured laptop model provided by top computer brands in most of their websites. In most cases, the laptop ratings are usually given based on the features of the laptop whereas features serve as major factors for the laptop ratings.
Wireless Internet For Laptop
The wireless Internet for laptop is very essential for those users who love to travel. It is a necessity for the full capabilities of your laptop machines. Since a laptop computer is one kind of a mobile, users prefer to have their laptop's Internet connections to be just like mobile, which is very convenient. In this sense, the need for a wireless Internet for laptop is now becoming revolutionized.
With wireless Internet for laptop, corporate businesses are now conducting their business in the easiest way that is more convenient for them. Having the Internet connection around through wifi for laptop, making business is becoming more prevalent. The Internet technology can help enhance sales figures and productivity as well as the over-all financial status of the business just by applying acute time of management practices.
As long as you have WiFI, there are public spaces and cities where you can go at your convenience that will provide you the easy access to the Internet and your other online activities. However, you need to search and determine on the best spots for it. WiFi is one great access to technology that is available 24 hours a day as long as there is a wireless Internet access around. Currently, industries and marketing of all kinds are now getting revolutionized on the capabilities of wireless Internet for laptop.
When the machine of portable laptop was introduced, the idea of it as a mobile was already present. With this, the idea of installing a wireless Internet for laptop had never been impossible. This idea had been a perfect combination as far as the Internet technology is concerned. With WiFi, a laptop is easily moved from one place to another especially within an office, a home or a country. Internet logging had never been hassle for laptop as you don't need to look for a modem just to connect in the Internet. However, if you have a wireless connectivity for laptop, you also need to have a ISP WiFi service that is present within the area of coverage. This computer wireless service is often provided by a particular network providing service.
Because of the extreme popularity of wireless Internet for laptop, there had been public places as well as cities that have added certain Wi-Fi hot spots where any laptop user can be able to connect to the Internet every time they are in need. These hotspots are even offered wire-free for those who are just near the locations. Aside from the convenience that these hotspots offer to the Wi-Fi users, the hassles of dial-ups are also prevented. Now, it is unbelievable what wireless Internet for laptop can offer when it comes to convenience, flexibility, and speed galore!
With wireless Internet for laptop, corporate businesses are now conducting their business in the easiest way that is more convenient for them. Having the Internet connection around through wifi for laptop, making business is becoming more prevalent. The Internet technology can help enhance sales figures and productivity as well as the over-all financial status of the business just by applying acute time of management practices.
As long as you have WiFI, there are public spaces and cities where you can go at your convenience that will provide you the easy access to the Internet and your other online activities. However, you need to search and determine on the best spots for it. WiFi is one great access to technology that is available 24 hours a day as long as there is a wireless Internet access around. Currently, industries and marketing of all kinds are now getting revolutionized on the capabilities of wireless Internet for laptop.
When the machine of portable laptop was introduced, the idea of it as a mobile was already present. With this, the idea of installing a wireless Internet for laptop had never been impossible. This idea had been a perfect combination as far as the Internet technology is concerned. With WiFi, a laptop is easily moved from one place to another especially within an office, a home or a country. Internet logging had never been hassle for laptop as you don't need to look for a modem just to connect in the Internet. However, if you have a wireless connectivity for laptop, you also need to have a ISP WiFi service that is present within the area of coverage. This computer wireless service is often provided by a particular network providing service.
Because of the extreme popularity of wireless Internet for laptop, there had been public places as well as cities that have added certain Wi-Fi hot spots where any laptop user can be able to connect to the Internet every time they are in need. These hotspots are even offered wire-free for those who are just near the locations. Aside from the convenience that these hotspots offer to the Wi-Fi users, the hassles of dial-ups are also prevented. Now, it is unbelievable what wireless Internet for laptop can offer when it comes to convenience, flexibility, and speed galore!
Toshiba Laptops
How does one decide the criterion for identifying or differentiating the variety of Laptops that are available in today's market? The amount of choice available today is enough to drive one crazy by throwing harrowing statistics at the untrained layman's mind. The comparison between various brands of Laptops can be a very time consuming and painstakingly slow process however great help is available through the medium of various sources.
Serious buyers may even quit the survey due to the confusing and conflicting input that they may receive form various sources. The comparison of a Laptop would start right from the basic configurations right up to the quality of the picture visible on the TFT screen Many companies provide bundled software packages along with the Laptop to attract the potential customers.
Toshiba Laptops.
The name of Toshiba has been associated with quality products in almost every field right since its inception. The company has always been a frontrunner in Electronics goods and has captured a sizeable section in the computer Laptop segment. The company has maintained the quality for decades and the brand value of the company is solely due to its inbuilt quality and a promise of a prompt replacement / repair of the defective equipment. Toshiba Laptops come across as a innovatively designed product which was carefully and meticulously designed and produced for the best of use by the worst of the handlers/ users.
Toshiba Laptops: An Overview
The laptops, manufactured by Toshiba which was founded in 1875 in Japan, are indeed a technological wonder when it comes to the amount of power that has been crammed into this mini size super machine. The machines are not only powerful and strongly efficient in performance but are also cute looking and are aesthetically pleasing. The company manufactures Laptops in varies models right from ultra portable Libretto to the multimedia Qosmio. It wont come as big surprise to know that even the Desktop computers produced by the Toshiba company are extremely with the American consumer.
Toshiba Laptop and Advancements.
The question that should be asked before purchasing a Toshiba Laptop is whether you are looking for a desktop replacement, or a requirement specific gaming/ multimedia machine? The choice available is mind-boggling and can leave you dumbstruck. You have a heady spread of Libretto, Portege, Qosmio, Tecra and Satellite notebooks to choose from. Not an easy task. The choice can be confusing and irritating.
The choice of processor, RAM, drives, Memory, Battery Life, Screen size and resolution, ports and accessories can leave one totally confused. You might as well be tempted to go for the slimmest piece in the market or may just prefer to wait for the latest model to roll out for you. The Toshiba Laptops have the best performance and optimum output even in the most hostile environments and are continuously being improved upon by the relentless Research and Development team which is always on a lookout for a better and more efficient model for the choosy and class customer, just like you.
Serious buyers may even quit the survey due to the confusing and conflicting input that they may receive form various sources. The comparison of a Laptop would start right from the basic configurations right up to the quality of the picture visible on the TFT screen Many companies provide bundled software packages along with the Laptop to attract the potential customers.
Toshiba Laptops.
The name of Toshiba has been associated with quality products in almost every field right since its inception. The company has always been a frontrunner in Electronics goods and has captured a sizeable section in the computer Laptop segment. The company has maintained the quality for decades and the brand value of the company is solely due to its inbuilt quality and a promise of a prompt replacement / repair of the defective equipment. Toshiba Laptops come across as a innovatively designed product which was carefully and meticulously designed and produced for the best of use by the worst of the handlers/ users.
Toshiba Laptops: An Overview
The laptops, manufactured by Toshiba which was founded in 1875 in Japan, are indeed a technological wonder when it comes to the amount of power that has been crammed into this mini size super machine. The machines are not only powerful and strongly efficient in performance but are also cute looking and are aesthetically pleasing. The company manufactures Laptops in varies models right from ultra portable Libretto to the multimedia Qosmio. It wont come as big surprise to know that even the Desktop computers produced by the Toshiba company are extremely with the American consumer.
Toshiba Laptop and Advancements.
The question that should be asked before purchasing a Toshiba Laptop is whether you are looking for a desktop replacement, or a requirement specific gaming/ multimedia machine? The choice available is mind-boggling and can leave you dumbstruck. You have a heady spread of Libretto, Portege, Qosmio, Tecra and Satellite notebooks to choose from. Not an easy task. The choice can be confusing and irritating.
The choice of processor, RAM, drives, Memory, Battery Life, Screen size and resolution, ports and accessories can leave one totally confused. You might as well be tempted to go for the slimmest piece in the market or may just prefer to wait for the latest model to roll out for you. The Toshiba Laptops have the best performance and optimum output even in the most hostile environments and are continuously being improved upon by the relentless Research and Development team which is always on a lookout for a better and more efficient model for the choosy and class customer, just like you.
Laptop Cooler
A laptop cooler, also called a chill mat, is an attachment that helps to reduce the increasing heat on the bottom of the device. The fan that is embedded in the laptop is really not able to cool the laptop appropriately. A cooling pad has several fans inside of it and it can be placed right below the laptop. There are many laptop coolers that use a power adapter as a power source. However, the most up to date versions of a chill pad use the USP port on the laptop. Also, the more advanced chill pad's offer an insert for memory sticks or key drives.
The chill mat's that are powered to the computer are made to draw heat from the bottom of the computer. Other coolers are designed to blow cool air towards the laptop using fans. The speed of the fans can be adjusted manually or automatically depending on the model. Chill pads that hook into the computer are always not the best appliance. The fact that the pad has to plug into the the computer, means that the computer will have to carry an additional load of power. Many laptops today only supply a 2.5 watt of power in the USB port.
There were many studies conducted at the California Polytechnic University in regards to the heat resource on a laptop computer. The results showed that chill pads that required a hook up reduced the life of the laptop. However, if the laptop was lifted from the bottom so that it was at an angle, the heat was able free flow away from the laptop. This was the only proven method of cooling that was successful long term. There are many coolers on the market that are built in such a way that the laptop is lifted from the top. It also allows the user to have a better access at the keys without their wrists being damaged.
The newest cooler on the market that utilizes the angle mechanism is the Targus CoolPad. The CoolPad helps prevent the user from being burned and prevents the laptop from overheating at the same time. The top portion of the laptop is lifted at an angle so that the air is able to flow freely. The pad also has a feature that allows the user to turn the device in a complete 360 degree turn to show another person the computer screen.
Many students are finding the pad useful due to the lightweight feel of the device. There are several copy cat versions of the CoolPad on the market as well, but they do not have the turning mechanism. They may be a little cheaper in price but the quality is not very great. The CoolPad may be more than one might want to spend but the outcome of the product and the quality will last.
The chill mat's that are powered to the computer are made to draw heat from the bottom of the computer. Other coolers are designed to blow cool air towards the laptop using fans. The speed of the fans can be adjusted manually or automatically depending on the model. Chill pads that hook into the computer are always not the best appliance. The fact that the pad has to plug into the the computer, means that the computer will have to carry an additional load of power. Many laptops today only supply a 2.5 watt of power in the USB port.
There were many studies conducted at the California Polytechnic University in regards to the heat resource on a laptop computer. The results showed that chill pads that required a hook up reduced the life of the laptop. However, if the laptop was lifted from the bottom so that it was at an angle, the heat was able free flow away from the laptop. This was the only proven method of cooling that was successful long term. There are many coolers on the market that are built in such a way that the laptop is lifted from the top. It also allows the user to have a better access at the keys without their wrists being damaged.
The newest cooler on the market that utilizes the angle mechanism is the Targus CoolPad. The CoolPad helps prevent the user from being burned and prevents the laptop from overheating at the same time. The top portion of the laptop is lifted at an angle so that the air is able to flow freely. The pad also has a feature that allows the user to turn the device in a complete 360 degree turn to show another person the computer screen.
Many students are finding the pad useful due to the lightweight feel of the device. There are several copy cat versions of the CoolPad on the market as well, but they do not have the turning mechanism. They may be a little cheaper in price but the quality is not very great. The CoolPad may be more than one might want to spend but the outcome of the product and the quality will last.
Acer Laptops
Those were the days of the heavy-duty industrial computers. It was common to employ a series of bulky storage boxes size processors to perform complicated mathematical and astronomical operations. The computer was a reality but only for the scientific community and the science fiction writers. Commoners like us could just gape at the pictures and wonder at the marvel the machines were supposedly performing. The thought that this giant of a machine would one day shrink to a small and slim toolbox size never ever touched our minds. The technicians, however, were busy trying to reduce the size of these machines and increase there speed and performance at the same time. The first step in the right direction came in the form of a Desktop Computer. The desktop computer completely changed the scenario.
The Transformation.
The Desktop revolution changed the world like never before. The advent of Pentium processors in a series led to development of rich software that was aimed at utilizing the maximum resources provided by the hardware. The software was driving the hardware requirement now. The challenges were met and the two marched ahead hand in hand. However, the problem with a Desktop, its static base was restricting its use to a limited area and it was pertinent to create a Computer that could be carried anywhere and used as per requirement. The technicians had answer to this question and they came up with a Laptop. This wonder machine was supposed to replace the Desktop and accompany the user on very travel he undertook.
The Acer Laptop.
The Acer laptop used to be comfortable and efficient at the same time in its initial phase. Slowly but steadily the Acer Laptop started to shed weight and acquire a totally new avatar. The transition from bulky to slim was seamless and the laptops almost overnight became slim and trendy. The Acer Laptops were designed for performance based upon the advancements in latest technologies for entertainment, mobility and security. The brands now available are Sleek, beautifully crafted and indeed head-turning due to the innovative shapes and premium finish acquired through the use of advance materials. The brand's performance was in league with the major Company Laptops and the Acer Laptop withstood every challenge thrown at it and came out with flying colours. The design and performance kept improving. The screen memory and battery capacity was constantly upgraded with the advancements of technology.
The Way Ahead.
The Acer Laptops have cleared every hurdle and emerged as the frontrunners in the field of slim Laptops. These Acer Laptops are studded with the very best of the available components viz. the Core Quad Processor, DDR2 RAM, 15'' TFT screen, DVD and Blue Ray drive, Multiple USB ports, Audio Channel ports, Video Accelerators and even 3D graphic video cards. Imagine all these facilities combined and bundled into a package that has an exterior as tough as the human skull protecting the soft and intelligent stuff inside. The Acer Audio visual superior laptops are selling like hot cakes world-wide and are expected to only improve this performance with every improvement in the technology.
The Transformation.
The Desktop revolution changed the world like never before. The advent of Pentium processors in a series led to development of rich software that was aimed at utilizing the maximum resources provided by the hardware. The software was driving the hardware requirement now. The challenges were met and the two marched ahead hand in hand. However, the problem with a Desktop, its static base was restricting its use to a limited area and it was pertinent to create a Computer that could be carried anywhere and used as per requirement. The technicians had answer to this question and they came up with a Laptop. This wonder machine was supposed to replace the Desktop and accompany the user on very travel he undertook.
The Acer Laptop.
The Acer laptop used to be comfortable and efficient at the same time in its initial phase. Slowly but steadily the Acer Laptop started to shed weight and acquire a totally new avatar. The transition from bulky to slim was seamless and the laptops almost overnight became slim and trendy. The Acer Laptops were designed for performance based upon the advancements in latest technologies for entertainment, mobility and security. The brands now available are Sleek, beautifully crafted and indeed head-turning due to the innovative shapes and premium finish acquired through the use of advance materials. The brand's performance was in league with the major Company Laptops and the Acer Laptop withstood every challenge thrown at it and came out with flying colours. The design and performance kept improving. The screen memory and battery capacity was constantly upgraded with the advancements of technology.
The Way Ahead.
The Acer Laptops have cleared every hurdle and emerged as the frontrunners in the field of slim Laptops. These Acer Laptops are studded with the very best of the available components viz. the Core Quad Processor, DDR2 RAM, 15'' TFT screen, DVD and Blue Ray drive, Multiple USB ports, Audio Channel ports, Video Accelerators and even 3D graphic video cards. Imagine all these facilities combined and bundled into a package that has an exterior as tough as the human skull protecting the soft and intelligent stuff inside. The Acer Audio visual superior laptops are selling like hot cakes world-wide and are expected to only improve this performance with every improvement in the technology.
Cheap Laptops
Those were the days of the old times when the relentless whirring and punching noise a computer was so reassuring and necessary that any break in that monotonous melody would make a support service engineer skip a heartbeat. The punch cards and punch card reader were norm and heavy duty typewriter like printers were the best stuff available. That was the dawn of new era and the story that has unfolded thereafter has defied any logic and has surpassed the limits of human belief.
Today's computers and Laptops surpass any imagination that anybody would have dared a guess even 20 years ago. The economical computers and the cheap Laptops that have flooded our lives have revolutionized the way we human beings live.
The Laptop.
The Japanese love for smaller but powerful devices gave birth to the race of smaller devices in the 20th century. This race was promptly adopted by the Computer industry and the competition for creating leaner and meaner machines grew by leaps and bounds. The result was machines that were cheaper (Cheap Laptop and Desktop computers) and more efficient computing solutions. The technology has grown at break neck speed and the Computer industry has promptly incorporated all these advancements into the latest gadgets that were rolled out. Thus we have cheap Laptops that are very easy on the pockets and are also able to perform operations that were a pipe dream merely a decade ago.
Cheap Laptops: A Reality.
The advancements in material, memory, battery, LCD, Optical and Nano- electronics have opened new vistas that are directly leading us into the age of more efficient Laptops that are made up of lighter and sturdier material that shall withstand shock, Vibrations, temperature variations and even water spillage. The material availability and bulk production due to a huge market base directly translates into a Laptop that is a cheap, but at the same time a more reliable and efficient version. One look at the growing trends provides a clear indicator to the things to come in near future.
Cheap Laptop Performance.
The term "cheap Laptop" does not necessary mean that some sort of compromise has been made with an eye on cutting down the price tag. To the contrary, it means that a perfect and fine balance has been struck between the requirement and consolidated availability to produce a Laptop that is easy on the pocket but at the same time pretty much capable of performing all the required operations other the basic intended operations.
Thus a Cheap Laptop acts as all-in-one multipurpose device that acts as a multimedia player, multimedia creator, gaming console, Office assistant, Node for Internet connectivity etc. in addition to a host of intended operations that the Laptop perform without any human interference. These laptops not only form a core group of computing devices for the future but also provide a ray of hope for all those waiting in the wing to jump into the Laptop owner Bandwagon.
Today's computers and Laptops surpass any imagination that anybody would have dared a guess even 20 years ago. The economical computers and the cheap Laptops that have flooded our lives have revolutionized the way we human beings live.
The Laptop.
The Japanese love for smaller but powerful devices gave birth to the race of smaller devices in the 20th century. This race was promptly adopted by the Computer industry and the competition for creating leaner and meaner machines grew by leaps and bounds. The result was machines that were cheaper (Cheap Laptop and Desktop computers) and more efficient computing solutions. The technology has grown at break neck speed and the Computer industry has promptly incorporated all these advancements into the latest gadgets that were rolled out. Thus we have cheap Laptops that are very easy on the pockets and are also able to perform operations that were a pipe dream merely a decade ago.
Cheap Laptops: A Reality.
The advancements in material, memory, battery, LCD, Optical and Nano- electronics have opened new vistas that are directly leading us into the age of more efficient Laptops that are made up of lighter and sturdier material that shall withstand shock, Vibrations, temperature variations and even water spillage. The material availability and bulk production due to a huge market base directly translates into a Laptop that is a cheap, but at the same time a more reliable and efficient version. One look at the growing trends provides a clear indicator to the things to come in near future.
Cheap Laptop Performance.
The term "cheap Laptop" does not necessary mean that some sort of compromise has been made with an eye on cutting down the price tag. To the contrary, it means that a perfect and fine balance has been struck between the requirement and consolidated availability to produce a Laptop that is easy on the pocket but at the same time pretty much capable of performing all the required operations other the basic intended operations.
Thus a Cheap Laptop acts as all-in-one multipurpose device that acts as a multimedia player, multimedia creator, gaming console, Office assistant, Node for Internet connectivity etc. in addition to a host of intended operations that the Laptop perform without any human interference. These laptops not only form a core group of computing devices for the future but also provide a ray of hope for all those waiting in the wing to jump into the Laptop owner Bandwagon.
Laptop Bags
The shift from a Desktop computer to a Laptop is pretty unnerving in the initial phase, since one is used to a more conventional way of holding and operating a mouse, keyboard and even the Multimedia drives and devices. The transition from Desktop to a Laptop meant getting used to living without the regular wired connections and the CRT monitors, which were all well grounded to the earth. However, the Laptop posed a peculiar problem, that of no attachment to the ground. You had to support the device and carry it along. Just how does one carry a Laptop and for how long? A solution was within sight. To carry the Laptop in a carry case called the Laptop Bag.
The advent of Laptop bags meant that the Laptop could be carried conveniently as it could be dropped inside the bag and the bag could be slung across the shoulders. It was as easy as that. Moreover the bag provided a complete storage and transportation solution for a Laptop. The bag was sturdy and was capable of handling the shock, vibration and even temperature variations. The Laptop Bag could protect the Laptop from getting damaged during the rough weathers and also during storage at home. It even prevented the dust from accumulating over the device. All this was possible using one Laptop bag.
Taking Charge.
The Laptop bag revolutionized the way Laptops were carried world wide. From a headache it became a fashionable item almost overnight. The Laptop was no longer a tag along item which was a necessity, now even college kids starting the Laptops in their bags and flaunt it as a fashion statement. These bags made from good quality leather had enough space to hold a Laptop, its accessories (including the charging wires), office documents, cellphone, water bottle, stationery and even a pair of civvies. The Laptop bag had become a wonderful travel companion and has fast replaced the mini briefcase as a favored travel companion.
The Laptop Bag Advancements.
A look towards future indicates that as the Laptops have gone slimmer the Laptop bags have gone trendier and stronger. The material is also being developed and the newer bag material is becoming more and more strong and aesthetic. More stress is being laid on making the bag stronger without increasing the existing weight of the bag. The bags of the future will not only hold a Laptop inside but will also be able to take care of many other requirements of the owner. The Bags would be available in customized shapes, colours and models. They can be matching with your dress colours or moods.
The bag of future may also be programmed to interact with the Laptop and create an intelligent atmosphere. These advanced bags may even act as an accessory in addition to being a protecting shield of the Laptop. The bags have surely made a name for themselves and are sure to further their utility in near future.
The advent of Laptop bags meant that the Laptop could be carried conveniently as it could be dropped inside the bag and the bag could be slung across the shoulders. It was as easy as that. Moreover the bag provided a complete storage and transportation solution for a Laptop. The bag was sturdy and was capable of handling the shock, vibration and even temperature variations. The Laptop Bag could protect the Laptop from getting damaged during the rough weathers and also during storage at home. It even prevented the dust from accumulating over the device. All this was possible using one Laptop bag.
Taking Charge.
The Laptop bag revolutionized the way Laptops were carried world wide. From a headache it became a fashionable item almost overnight. The Laptop was no longer a tag along item which was a necessity, now even college kids starting the Laptops in their bags and flaunt it as a fashion statement. These bags made from good quality leather had enough space to hold a Laptop, its accessories (including the charging wires), office documents, cellphone, water bottle, stationery and even a pair of civvies. The Laptop bag had become a wonderful travel companion and has fast replaced the mini briefcase as a favored travel companion.
The Laptop Bag Advancements.
A look towards future indicates that as the Laptops have gone slimmer the Laptop bags have gone trendier and stronger. The material is also being developed and the newer bag material is becoming more and more strong and aesthetic. More stress is being laid on making the bag stronger without increasing the existing weight of the bag. The bags of the future will not only hold a Laptop inside but will also be able to take care of many other requirements of the owner. The Bags would be available in customized shapes, colours and models. They can be matching with your dress colours or moods.
The bag of future may also be programmed to interact with the Laptop and create an intelligent atmosphere. These advanced bags may even act as an accessory in addition to being a protecting shield of the Laptop. The bags have surely made a name for themselves and are sure to further their utility in near future.
Laptop Parts
Laptops are expensive devices, so one cannot always afford to replace theirs. This is why it is normally better to purchase laptop parts if possible. Well of course sometimes it is more than a part or two that needs replacing/repairing and you have to get a new laptop, but when you have only had one for a few months, rather just look for the appropriate parts. Laptop parts are much cheaper than just purchasing a whole new computer. However, if your laptop is an old one, you may want to purchase another one rather than get the part you need because you are going to need a whole new one soon anyway and you'll just be wasting your money on the part.
Many people find that some laptop parts are a lot cheaper when bought online, but that would depend on where you shop and where in the world you live. It might cost you $100 at the store for the part you need and when you check online the same part costs only $50, but remember that most times you have to pay for shipping and possibly other charges as well, so it may just work out to be the same price in the end. It will also depend on how urgently you need your laptop to be in working order again, if you want to determine where you should purchase it from. If you buy it online you are more than likely going to have to wait a couple of weeks, where as you could just go down to the nearest store and get the parts you need.
The variety of laptop parts available is endless - every part that is in a laptop is available to buy separately. Everything from harness cables to fans and adapters are available. If you go to an actual laptop store then you will be able to get all the parts you need - guaranteed, but if it is just a normal computer store they might have to order the part for you and let you know when they have stock of it. In the end, you have to choose the method that is going to benefit you the most, be it the location of the store, the price of the part or the waiting period - it is all your choice.
Before you go out and purchase laptop parts for your valuable piece, make sure that the guarantee on it is finished. If not, you can take it back to the place where you bought it and they will have to fix it without charging you.
Many people find that some laptop parts are a lot cheaper when bought online, but that would depend on where you shop and where in the world you live. It might cost you $100 at the store for the part you need and when you check online the same part costs only $50, but remember that most times you have to pay for shipping and possibly other charges as well, so it may just work out to be the same price in the end. It will also depend on how urgently you need your laptop to be in working order again, if you want to determine where you should purchase it from. If you buy it online you are more than likely going to have to wait a couple of weeks, where as you could just go down to the nearest store and get the parts you need.
The variety of laptop parts available is endless - every part that is in a laptop is available to buy separately. Everything from harness cables to fans and adapters are available. If you go to an actual laptop store then you will be able to get all the parts you need - guaranteed, but if it is just a normal computer store they might have to order the part for you and let you know when they have stock of it. In the end, you have to choose the method that is going to benefit you the most, be it the location of the store, the price of the part or the waiting period - it is all your choice.
Before you go out and purchase laptop parts for your valuable piece, make sure that the guarantee on it is finished. If not, you can take it back to the place where you bought it and they will have to fix it without charging you.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Laptop Overview
A laptop computer, or simply laptop (also notebook computer, notebook and notepad) is a small mobile computer, which usually weighs 2-18 pounds (around 1 to 8 kilograms), depending on size, materials, and other factors.
Laptops usually run on a single main battery or from an external AC/DC adapter which can charge the battery while also supplying power to the computer itself. Many computers also have a 3 volt cell to run the clock and other processes in the event of a power failure.
As personal computers, laptops are capable of the same tasks as a desktop computer, although they are typically less powerful for the same price. They contain components that are similar to their desktop counterparts and perform the same functions, but are miniaturized and optimized for mobile use and efficient power consumption. Laptops usually have liquid crystal displays and most of them use different memory modules for their random access memory (RAM), for instance, SO-DIMM in lieu of the larger DIMMs. In addition to a built-in keyboard, they may utilize a touchpad (also known as a trackpad) or a pointing stick for input, though an external keyboard or mouse can usually be attached.
Categories
Thin-and-lights
Laptops usually weighing in between 4 and 6 lb (1.8–2.7 kg) with a screen size of between 12 and 14 inches (30–35 cm) diagonally.
Mainstream
Laptops weighing in between 5 and 7 lb (2.3–3.2 kg), with a screen size of 14.1 inches and 15.4 inches (35 and 39 cm).
Desktop replacement computers
Powerful laptops meant to be mainly used in a fixed location and infrequently carried out due to their weight and size; the latter provides more space for powerful components and a big screen, usually measuring 17–20 inches (43–51 cm). Desktop replacements tend to have limited battery life, rarely exceeding three hours, because the hardware is not optimized for efficient power usage. Sometimes called a luggable laptop. An example of a desktop replacement computers are gaming notebooks, which are designed to handle 3D graphic-intensive processing for gamers.
Related devices
Laptops can be understood as a particular point on the continuum of more or less portable computing devices: the point at which the device is large enough to use substantially the same software as a desktop machine, but small enough to support mobile computing. Other points on the continuum include:
Transportable, also called portable computers
Computers which can easily be moved from place to place, but cannot be used while in transit, usually because they require AC power. The most famous example is the Osborne 1. A transportable, like a laptop, can run desktop software; but it does not support mobile computing.
Tablets
Computers shaped like slates or (paper) notebooks, with touchscreen interfaces include a magnetized stylus and software for allowing input to be recognized by the touch screen. As of 2007, the most common subcategory is the Tablet PC, which is essentially a laptop with a touchscreen. Some tablets have no keyboard; others, called "convertibles", have a screen which can be rotated 180 degrees and folded on top of the keyboard. Tablets may have limited functionality in certain applications that require an actual physical keyboard for typing, but are otherwise capable of carrying out most tasks that an ordinary laptop would be able to perform.
Internet tablets
Internet appliances in tablet form. An internet tablet supports mobile computing. Internet tablets usually use Linux and they are able to run some applications, but they cant replace a computer. Internet tablets feature MP3, video, internet browser, chat, and picture viewer.
Personal digital assistants (PDAs)
Small computers, usually pocket-sized, usually with limited functionality. A PDA supports mobile computing, but almost never runs any desktop software.
Handheld computers
A high-end PDA or small tablet.
Smart phone
A hand held or PDA with an integrated cellphone.
Boundaries that separate these categories are blurry at times. For example, the OQO UPC is a PDA-sized tablet PC; the Apple eMate had the clamshell form factor of a laptop, but ran PDA software. The HP Omnibook line of laptops included some devices small enough to be called handheld computers. The hardware of the Nokia 770 internet tablet is essentially the same as that of a PDA such as the Zaurus 6000; the only reason it's not called a PDA is that it doesn't have PIM software. On the other hand, both the 770 and the Zaurus can run some desktop Linux software, usually with modifications.
Parts
Most modern laptops feature 12 inch (30 cm) or larger active matrix displays with resolutions of 1024×768 pixels and above, and have a PC Card (formerly PCMCIA) or ExpressCard expansion bay for expansion cards. Internal hard disks are physically smaller—2.5 inch (60 mm)—compared to the standard desktop 3.5 inch (90 mm) drive, and usually have lower performance and power consumption. Video and sound chips are usually integrated. This tends to limit the use of laptops for gaming and entertainment, two fields which have constantly escalating hardware demands.[citation needed] However, higher end laptops can come with dedicated graphics processors, such as the Dell Inspiron E1505 and E1705, which can be bought with an ATI Mobility Radeon X1300 or similar. These mobile graphics processors tend to have less performance than their desktop counterparts, but this is because they have been optimized for lower power usage.
There is a wide range of laptop specific processors available from Intel (Pentium M, Celeron, Intel Core and Intel Core 2) and from AMD (Athlon, Turion 64, and Sempron) and also from VIA (C3 and C7-M). Motorola and IBM developed and manufactured the chips for the former PowerPC-based Apple laptops (iBook and PowerBook). Generally, laptop processors are less powerful than their desktop counterparts, due to the need to save energy and reduce heat dissipation. However, the PowerPC G3 and G4 processor generations were able to offer almost the same performance as their desktop versions, limited mostly by other factors, such as the system bus bandwidth; recently, though, with the introduction of the G5s, they have been far outstripped. At one point, the Pismo G3, at up to 500 MHz, was faster than the fastest desktop G3 (then the B&W G3), which ran at 450 MHz.
Some parts for a modern laptop have no corresponding part in a desktop computer. For example, current models use lithium ion and more recently lithium polymer batteries, which have largely replaced the older nickel metal-hydride technology. Typical battery life for most laptops is two to five hours with light-duty use, but may drop to as little as one hour with intensive use. Batteries gradually deteriorate over time and eventually need to be replaced in one to five years, depending on the charging and discharging pattern.
Docking stations became another common laptop accessories in the early 1990s. They typically were quite large and offered 3.5" and 5.25" storage bays, one to three expansion slots (typically AT style), and a host of connectors. The mating between the laptop and docking station was typically through a large, high-speed, proprietary connector. The most common use was in a corporate computing environment where the company had standardized on a common network card and this same card was placed into the docking station. These stations were very large and quite expensive. As the need to additional storage and expansion slots became less critical because of the high integration inside the laptop itself, the emergence of the Port Replicator as a major accessory commenced. The Port Replicator was often a passive device that simply mated to the connectors on the back of the notebook and allowed the user to quickly connect their laptop so VGA, PS/2, RS-232, etc. devices were instantly attached. As higher speed ports like USB and Firewire became commonplace, the Port Replication was accomplished by a small cable connected to one of the USB 2.0 or FireWire ports on the notebooks. Wireless Port Replicators followed.
Virtually all laptops can be powered from an external AC converter. This device typically adds half a kilogram (1 lb) to the overall "transport weight" of the equipment.
A pointing stick or touchpad is used to control the position of the cursor on the screen. The pointing stick is usually a rubber dot that is located between the G, H and B keys on the laptop keyboard. To navigate the cursor, pressure is applied in the direction intended to move. The touchpad is touch-sensitive and the cursor can be navigated by moving the finger on the pad.
Intel, Asus, Compal, Quanta and other laptop manufacturers have created Common Building Block standard for laptop parts.
Performance
For a given price range (and manufacturing base), laptop computational power has traditionally trailed that of desktops. This is partly due to most laptops sharing RAM between the program memory and the graphics adapter. By virtue of their usage goals, laptops prioritize energy efficiency and compactness over absolute performance. Desktop computers and their modular components are built to fit much bigger standard enclosures, along with the expectation of AC line power. As such, energy efficiency and portability for desktops are secondary design goals compared to absolute performance.
For typical home (personal use) applications, where the computer spends the majority of its time sitting idle for the next user input, laptops of the thin-client type or larger are generally fast enough to achieve the required performance. 3D gaming, multimedia (video) encoding and playback, and analysis-packages (database, math, engineering, financial, etc.) are areas where desktops still offer the casual user a compelling advantage.
With the advent of dual-core processors and perpendicular recording, laptops are beginning to close the performance gap with desktops. Intel's Core 2 line of processors is efficient enough to be used in portable computers, and many manufacturers such as Apple and Dell are building Core 2 based laptops. Also, many high end laptop computers feature mobility versions of graphics cards, eliminating the performance losses associated with integrated graphics.
Health issues
A study by State University of New York researchers says heat generated from laptops can significantly elevate the temperature of the scrotum, potentially putting sperm count at risk. The small study, which included little more than two dozen men ages 13 to 35, found that the sitting position required to balance a laptop can raise scrotum temperature by as much as 2.1 °C (3.8 °F). Heat from the laptop itself can raise the temperature by another 0.7 °C (1.4 °F), bringing the potential total increase to 2.8 °C (5.2 °F). However, further research is needed to determine whether this directly affects sterility in men. [5] A common practical solution to this problem is to place the laptop on a table or desk.
Because of their small keyboard, the use of laptops can cause RSI, and for this reason laptops have docks that are used with ergonomic keyboards to prevent injury. Some health standards require that ergonomic keyboards be used in workplaces.
Major brands and manufacturers
Major brands
* Acer - TravelMate, Extensa, Ferrari and Aspire
* Apple - MacBook, MacBook Air and MacBook Pro
* Compaq - Evo, Armada, LTE, and Presario
* Dell - Inspiron, Latitude, Precision, Vostro and XPS
* Gateway
* Hewlett-Packard - HP Pavilion and HP Omnibook
* Lenovo - ThinkPad and 3000 series
* Panasonic - Toughbook, Let's Note (available in Japan only)
* Sony - VAIO, C series, FJ Series: ,N series, Sz series, FZ series, Ar series
* Toshiba - Dynabook, Equium, Portege, Tecra, Satellite, Qosmio, Libretto
ODM brands
* ASUS - Asus Eee, Lamborghini
* Clevo
* Compal Electronics
* ECS
Gaming
* Abbcore Technologies - Velocita
* Alienware - Area 51m, Alienware Sentia and Aurora m
* Falcon Northwest - DR6800, TL2
* Vigor Gaming - Atlantis, Augustus, Artorius, and Aegis
* Voodoo PC - Envy
* Dell XPS - M1730 (laptop), and M1530 (laptop)
Other brands
* Abbcore Technologies - Desktop, Notebook, Server, Media Center
* Acorn Computers - Deskbook, Desknote and Solonote
* AVADirect
* Averatec
* BenQ
* Everex
* Fujitsu Siemens - Lifebook, FMV - BiBlo, Amilo
* Gericom
* HCL
* Hypersonic
* Hyundai
* Jetta (electronics company) - Jetbook
* LG - Xnote
* LinuxCertified - Linux laptop
* MDG Computers
* Medion
* Micro-Star International (MSI)
* NEC - VERSA, LaVie
* Neo - Empiriva, Endura
* Packard Bell - EasyNote
* Samsung - Sens
* Seanix - Seanix
* Sharp - Mebius
* Zenith
* Zepto
* Wipro Technolgies
Laptops usually run on a single main battery or from an external AC/DC adapter which can charge the battery while also supplying power to the computer itself. Many computers also have a 3 volt cell to run the clock and other processes in the event of a power failure.
As personal computers, laptops are capable of the same tasks as a desktop computer, although they are typically less powerful for the same price. They contain components that are similar to their desktop counterparts and perform the same functions, but are miniaturized and optimized for mobile use and efficient power consumption. Laptops usually have liquid crystal displays and most of them use different memory modules for their random access memory (RAM), for instance, SO-DIMM in lieu of the larger DIMMs. In addition to a built-in keyboard, they may utilize a touchpad (also known as a trackpad) or a pointing stick for input, though an external keyboard or mouse can usually be attached.
Categories
Thin-and-lights
Laptops usually weighing in between 4 and 6 lb (1.8–2.7 kg) with a screen size of between 12 and 14 inches (30–35 cm) diagonally.
Mainstream
Laptops weighing in between 5 and 7 lb (2.3–3.2 kg), with a screen size of 14.1 inches and 15.4 inches (35 and 39 cm).
Desktop replacement computers
Powerful laptops meant to be mainly used in a fixed location and infrequently carried out due to their weight and size; the latter provides more space for powerful components and a big screen, usually measuring 17–20 inches (43–51 cm). Desktop replacements tend to have limited battery life, rarely exceeding three hours, because the hardware is not optimized for efficient power usage. Sometimes called a luggable laptop. An example of a desktop replacement computers are gaming notebooks, which are designed to handle 3D graphic-intensive processing for gamers.
Related devices
Laptops can be understood as a particular point on the continuum of more or less portable computing devices: the point at which the device is large enough to use substantially the same software as a desktop machine, but small enough to support mobile computing. Other points on the continuum include:
Transportable, also called portable computers
Computers which can easily be moved from place to place, but cannot be used while in transit, usually because they require AC power. The most famous example is the Osborne 1. A transportable, like a laptop, can run desktop software; but it does not support mobile computing.
Tablets
Computers shaped like slates or (paper) notebooks, with touchscreen interfaces include a magnetized stylus and software for allowing input to be recognized by the touch screen. As of 2007, the most common subcategory is the Tablet PC, which is essentially a laptop with a touchscreen. Some tablets have no keyboard; others, called "convertibles", have a screen which can be rotated 180 degrees and folded on top of the keyboard. Tablets may have limited functionality in certain applications that require an actual physical keyboard for typing, but are otherwise capable of carrying out most tasks that an ordinary laptop would be able to perform.
Internet tablets
Internet appliances in tablet form. An internet tablet supports mobile computing. Internet tablets usually use Linux and they are able to run some applications, but they cant replace a computer. Internet tablets feature MP3, video, internet browser, chat, and picture viewer.
Personal digital assistants (PDAs)
Small computers, usually pocket-sized, usually with limited functionality. A PDA supports mobile computing, but almost never runs any desktop software.
Handheld computers
A high-end PDA or small tablet.
Smart phone
A hand held or PDA with an integrated cellphone.
Boundaries that separate these categories are blurry at times. For example, the OQO UPC is a PDA-sized tablet PC; the Apple eMate had the clamshell form factor of a laptop, but ran PDA software. The HP Omnibook line of laptops included some devices small enough to be called handheld computers. The hardware of the Nokia 770 internet tablet is essentially the same as that of a PDA such as the Zaurus 6000; the only reason it's not called a PDA is that it doesn't have PIM software. On the other hand, both the 770 and the Zaurus can run some desktop Linux software, usually with modifications.
Parts
Most modern laptops feature 12 inch (30 cm) or larger active matrix displays with resolutions of 1024×768 pixels and above, and have a PC Card (formerly PCMCIA) or ExpressCard expansion bay for expansion cards. Internal hard disks are physically smaller—2.5 inch (60 mm)—compared to the standard desktop 3.5 inch (90 mm) drive, and usually have lower performance and power consumption. Video and sound chips are usually integrated. This tends to limit the use of laptops for gaming and entertainment, two fields which have constantly escalating hardware demands.[citation needed] However, higher end laptops can come with dedicated graphics processors, such as the Dell Inspiron E1505 and E1705, which can be bought with an ATI Mobility Radeon X1300 or similar. These mobile graphics processors tend to have less performance than their desktop counterparts, but this is because they have been optimized for lower power usage.
There is a wide range of laptop specific processors available from Intel (Pentium M, Celeron, Intel Core and Intel Core 2) and from AMD (Athlon, Turion 64, and Sempron) and also from VIA (C3 and C7-M). Motorola and IBM developed and manufactured the chips for the former PowerPC-based Apple laptops (iBook and PowerBook). Generally, laptop processors are less powerful than their desktop counterparts, due to the need to save energy and reduce heat dissipation. However, the PowerPC G3 and G4 processor generations were able to offer almost the same performance as their desktop versions, limited mostly by other factors, such as the system bus bandwidth; recently, though, with the introduction of the G5s, they have been far outstripped. At one point, the Pismo G3, at up to 500 MHz, was faster than the fastest desktop G3 (then the B&W G3), which ran at 450 MHz.
Some parts for a modern laptop have no corresponding part in a desktop computer. For example, current models use lithium ion and more recently lithium polymer batteries, which have largely replaced the older nickel metal-hydride technology. Typical battery life for most laptops is two to five hours with light-duty use, but may drop to as little as one hour with intensive use. Batteries gradually deteriorate over time and eventually need to be replaced in one to five years, depending on the charging and discharging pattern.
Docking stations became another common laptop accessories in the early 1990s. They typically were quite large and offered 3.5" and 5.25" storage bays, one to three expansion slots (typically AT style), and a host of connectors. The mating between the laptop and docking station was typically through a large, high-speed, proprietary connector. The most common use was in a corporate computing environment where the company had standardized on a common network card and this same card was placed into the docking station. These stations were very large and quite expensive. As the need to additional storage and expansion slots became less critical because of the high integration inside the laptop itself, the emergence of the Port Replicator as a major accessory commenced. The Port Replicator was often a passive device that simply mated to the connectors on the back of the notebook and allowed the user to quickly connect their laptop so VGA, PS/2, RS-232, etc. devices were instantly attached. As higher speed ports like USB and Firewire became commonplace, the Port Replication was accomplished by a small cable connected to one of the USB 2.0 or FireWire ports on the notebooks. Wireless Port Replicators followed.
Virtually all laptops can be powered from an external AC converter. This device typically adds half a kilogram (1 lb) to the overall "transport weight" of the equipment.
A pointing stick or touchpad is used to control the position of the cursor on the screen. The pointing stick is usually a rubber dot that is located between the G, H and B keys on the laptop keyboard. To navigate the cursor, pressure is applied in the direction intended to move. The touchpad is touch-sensitive and the cursor can be navigated by moving the finger on the pad.
Intel, Asus, Compal, Quanta and other laptop manufacturers have created Common Building Block standard for laptop parts.
Performance
For a given price range (and manufacturing base), laptop computational power has traditionally trailed that of desktops. This is partly due to most laptops sharing RAM between the program memory and the graphics adapter. By virtue of their usage goals, laptops prioritize energy efficiency and compactness over absolute performance. Desktop computers and their modular components are built to fit much bigger standard enclosures, along with the expectation of AC line power. As such, energy efficiency and portability for desktops are secondary design goals compared to absolute performance.
For typical home (personal use) applications, where the computer spends the majority of its time sitting idle for the next user input, laptops of the thin-client type or larger are generally fast enough to achieve the required performance. 3D gaming, multimedia (video) encoding and playback, and analysis-packages (database, math, engineering, financial, etc.) are areas where desktops still offer the casual user a compelling advantage.
With the advent of dual-core processors and perpendicular recording, laptops are beginning to close the performance gap with desktops. Intel's Core 2 line of processors is efficient enough to be used in portable computers, and many manufacturers such as Apple and Dell are building Core 2 based laptops. Also, many high end laptop computers feature mobility versions of graphics cards, eliminating the performance losses associated with integrated graphics.
Health issues
A study by State University of New York researchers says heat generated from laptops can significantly elevate the temperature of the scrotum, potentially putting sperm count at risk. The small study, which included little more than two dozen men ages 13 to 35, found that the sitting position required to balance a laptop can raise scrotum temperature by as much as 2.1 °C (3.8 °F). Heat from the laptop itself can raise the temperature by another 0.7 °C (1.4 °F), bringing the potential total increase to 2.8 °C (5.2 °F). However, further research is needed to determine whether this directly affects sterility in men. [5] A common practical solution to this problem is to place the laptop on a table or desk.
Because of their small keyboard, the use of laptops can cause RSI, and for this reason laptops have docks that are used with ergonomic keyboards to prevent injury. Some health standards require that ergonomic keyboards be used in workplaces.
Major brands and manufacturers
Major brands
* Acer - TravelMate, Extensa, Ferrari and Aspire
* Apple - MacBook, MacBook Air and MacBook Pro
* Compaq - Evo, Armada, LTE, and Presario
* Dell - Inspiron, Latitude, Precision, Vostro and XPS
* Gateway
* Hewlett-Packard - HP Pavilion and HP Omnibook
* Lenovo - ThinkPad and 3000 series
* Panasonic - Toughbook, Let's Note (available in Japan only)
* Sony - VAIO, C series, FJ Series: ,N series, Sz series, FZ series, Ar series
* Toshiba - Dynabook, Equium, Portege, Tecra, Satellite, Qosmio, Libretto
ODM brands
* ASUS - Asus Eee, Lamborghini
* Clevo
* Compal Electronics
* ECS
Gaming
* Abbcore Technologies - Velocita
* Alienware - Area 51m, Alienware Sentia and Aurora m
* Falcon Northwest - DR6800, TL2
* Vigor Gaming - Atlantis, Augustus, Artorius, and Aegis
* Voodoo PC - Envy
* Dell XPS - M1730 (laptop), and M1530 (laptop)
Other brands
* Abbcore Technologies - Desktop, Notebook, Server, Media Center
* Acorn Computers - Deskbook, Desknote and Solonote
* AVADirect
* Averatec
* BenQ
* Everex
* Fujitsu Siemens - Lifebook, FMV - BiBlo, Amilo
* Gericom
* HCL
* Hypersonic
* Hyundai
* Jetta (electronics company) - Jetbook
* LG - Xnote
* LinuxCertified - Linux laptop
* MDG Computers
* Medion
* Micro-Star International (MSI)
* NEC - VERSA, LaVie
* Neo - Empiriva, Endura
* Packard Bell - EasyNote
* Samsung - Sens
* Seanix - Seanix
* Sharp - Mebius
* Zenith
* Zepto
* Wipro Technolgies
Five Tips For Buying a Laptop Computer
Purchasing a laptop is a large investment, and one that can be complicated by all of the options, manufacturers, and technical mumbo-jumbo that needs to be sifted through. Before you spend a lot of money on a laptop, it is important to spend a little time considering some basics that may affect the decision-making process. This Tech Tip will take a look at five of the innumerous things worth considering when buying a laptop computer.
Ergonomics:
If you are going to be spending any significant amount of time working on this laptop computer, you're going to want to be comfortable. A well-designed interface is essential for comfort, as well as good health. Carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis may be some of the more common conditions associated with extended computer usage, and selecting the most comfortable laptop may help avoid them all together.
The keyboards on laptops generally feature compressed layouts with smaller keys, which may place a strain on hands and wrists as users try to adapt to these miniature arrangements. Generally speaking, the larger the laptop, the larger the keyboard, as they are usually designed to span the entire width of the unit.
Most laptops use either a touchpad or tracking pointer (knob) as a replacement for a mouse. These may be adequate for occasional use, but even the best designs can become frustrating and uncomfortable when used extensively. Plus, when used for game play or other applications where precise motion is critical, they just don't cut it.
Purchasing a separate mouse may be the best bet, as it allows you to place your arm in a more familiar (and comfortable) position, as well as providing something that may fit your hand much better. Notebook mice are available in a wired or wireless version, and generally feature a slightly smaller footprint than your typical mouse.
Connectivity:
Being able to connect to common devices is just as important on laptops as it is on desktops, but being able to add these connections down the road is not as easy on a laptop. Upgrades aren’t as easy on laptops due to the basic design, so make sure what you need is included up front.
Wireless networking is almost a must-have feature on laptops now. The cord has been severed to every other shackle confining you to your desk; don’t let network connectivity hold you back. Wireless networking adapters are available as upgrades via either PCMCIA cards or USB adapters, but many now offer it onboard, hidden inside the system’s housing. Integrated wireless is the best option if available, as it requires fewer accessories to carry and to configure, and leaves those expansion ports open for other uses.
USB 2.0 may be the most common peripheral connection, and many laptops may still come with just one port. That’s fine if you don’t mind carrying around a USB hub, but the more you have to carry, the less mobile you are. A good example of the importance of USB is that many people decide they want to use a separate mouse for ergonomic reasons, and generally it will connect via USB. On a laptop with just one port, you now have to juggle the use of the mouse with connecting anything else, like a digital camera, MP3 player, or an external hard drive.
Firewire may not be as popular as USB, and as such, it doesn't show up at all on many computer systems, regardless of whether they are desktops or laptops. Having this connection may not be necessary for everyone, but for those who want it, keep in mind that its inclusion on any particular laptop is not a given.
Bluetooth is another type of connectivity you may want in a laptop, but its popularity has yet to really catch up to its hype. More and more consumer electronics devices are starting feature Bluetooth technology, but for general computer applications, it may be more trouble than it is worth.
This Toshiba Satellite features a solid assortment of connections with three USB 2.0 ports, a Firewire port, integrated wireless and wired networking, and even a modem.
Power Management:
If you are going to use a laptop as it was intended, away from your desk, you're going to want it to provide as much battery life as possible. The first step is to shop around for a unit that offers the best battery life possible, and then seek out independent reviews to verify this performance. A good laptop should be able to run for four hours or more on a full charge, and as the technology advances, finding units that can double this time isn't unrealistic.
The operating system on most laptops will allow for the hardware to be configured to utilize the battery as efficiently as possible. It is just up to the user to navigate their way to these tabs and set things like the display to turn off, hard drives to power down, or even the processor to slow down when it isn't needed to run full speed. Not all processors can provide this speed throttling, but finding a system with a Mobile Pentium/Celeron or Centrino processor may be your best bet to ensure this capability.
Another way to ensure extended life away from a power outlet is to just add a second battery. Although you can obviously carry a charged spare in your bag, some laptops allow for two batteries to be installed at once, with one generally replacing the optical disk drive.
Size / Weight:
All laptop computers are not created equal, and the size and weight of the various models reflect that. Some may weigh more than others due to the quantity of components included, but it may also be due to the quality of the components. Larger displays, multiple hard drives, and other integrated components will all contribute to the weight of a laptop. The largest single source of weight in a laptop may be the battery, and systems with two batteries as described above, should be expected to be much heavier.
No laptop may be considered heavy in the grand scheme of things, but just a few pounds more may be noticeable if you regularly have to lug it through a busy airport or across a large college campus. Geeks.com may not provided the exact weight of each laptop they carry, but they do provide a shipping weight for each, which is a good approximation of what the laptop and various accessories will weigh when loaded into your carrying bag.
The overall size of a laptop is generally governed by the size of the display included. You may have seen the commercial where Yao Ming (7'5" basketball player) and Verne Troyer (Mini-Me) compare their laptops with 12 inch and 17 inch monitors. It is an excellent demonstration of the range of sizes available in laptop computers, and how the various sizes may be appropriate for different users. Those seeking a replacement for their desktop computer may insist on a 17” display, while those seeking to minimize size and weight in the name of portability may be willing to select a laptop with a smaller display.
Future Proof:
Basically, purchase as much laptop as you can afford, so that a year or two down the road you may be less likely to need a replacement.
Processors in a laptop are generally not upgradeable, or at least quite difficult to upgrade, so picking something with marginally adequate speed for today’s needs will no doubt be obsolete sooner than you might expect. Desktop computers generally offer the convenience of having their processors (and other components) upgraded, making it less of an issue, but it is important to plan ahead with laptops, or to plan on buying another one in a few years.
The graphics processor is another integrated feature that should be considered before making a purchase, as there is no upgrading. Many laptops may offer somewhat basic graphics intended for good 2D display and 3D displays that may be hit or miss as far as the quality is concerned. In general, laptops were never intended for 3D gaming, but things are changing and many manufacturers now offer higher performance graphics solutions that can rival many desktop computers. ATI is well known for their high performance graphics products, and offer the Mobility Radeon X series of graphics processors based on their popular desktop solutions.
Laptop memory is less of a bottleneck, as it is readily available and can be upgraded rather easily. That said, many notebooks offer a base configuration of memory that may not be adequate for your particular needs. It is suggested that a Windows XP system have a minimum of 256MB of memory, and you may find that this is what is offered on many systems. 512MB is the recommended amount of memory for smooth operation on Windows XP, and many users with more intensive applications to run may insist on 1024MB. If you intend to run serious business applications or want to play some modern 3D games, it may be worth having that base 256MB upgraded before the laptop ships to you.
Final Words:
Picking a laptop computer will probably be more involved than reviewing five simple steps, but you have to start somewhere! Each of these steps will hopefully guide other decisions and make the process less frustrating, while also leading to the selection of the best laptop possible.
Ergonomics:
If you are going to be spending any significant amount of time working on this laptop computer, you're going to want to be comfortable. A well-designed interface is essential for comfort, as well as good health. Carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis may be some of the more common conditions associated with extended computer usage, and selecting the most comfortable laptop may help avoid them all together.
The keyboards on laptops generally feature compressed layouts with smaller keys, which may place a strain on hands and wrists as users try to adapt to these miniature arrangements. Generally speaking, the larger the laptop, the larger the keyboard, as they are usually designed to span the entire width of the unit.
Most laptops use either a touchpad or tracking pointer (knob) as a replacement for a mouse. These may be adequate for occasional use, but even the best designs can become frustrating and uncomfortable when used extensively. Plus, when used for game play or other applications where precise motion is critical, they just don't cut it.
Purchasing a separate mouse may be the best bet, as it allows you to place your arm in a more familiar (and comfortable) position, as well as providing something that may fit your hand much better. Notebook mice are available in a wired or wireless version, and generally feature a slightly smaller footprint than your typical mouse.
Connectivity:
Being able to connect to common devices is just as important on laptops as it is on desktops, but being able to add these connections down the road is not as easy on a laptop. Upgrades aren’t as easy on laptops due to the basic design, so make sure what you need is included up front.
Wireless networking is almost a must-have feature on laptops now. The cord has been severed to every other shackle confining you to your desk; don’t let network connectivity hold you back. Wireless networking adapters are available as upgrades via either PCMCIA cards or USB adapters, but many now offer it onboard, hidden inside the system’s housing. Integrated wireless is the best option if available, as it requires fewer accessories to carry and to configure, and leaves those expansion ports open for other uses.
USB 2.0 may be the most common peripheral connection, and many laptops may still come with just one port. That’s fine if you don’t mind carrying around a USB hub, but the more you have to carry, the less mobile you are. A good example of the importance of USB is that many people decide they want to use a separate mouse for ergonomic reasons, and generally it will connect via USB. On a laptop with just one port, you now have to juggle the use of the mouse with connecting anything else, like a digital camera, MP3 player, or an external hard drive.
Firewire may not be as popular as USB, and as such, it doesn't show up at all on many computer systems, regardless of whether they are desktops or laptops. Having this connection may not be necessary for everyone, but for those who want it, keep in mind that its inclusion on any particular laptop is not a given.
Bluetooth is another type of connectivity you may want in a laptop, but its popularity has yet to really catch up to its hype. More and more consumer electronics devices are starting feature Bluetooth technology, but for general computer applications, it may be more trouble than it is worth.
This Toshiba Satellite features a solid assortment of connections with three USB 2.0 ports, a Firewire port, integrated wireless and wired networking, and even a modem.
Power Management:
If you are going to use a laptop as it was intended, away from your desk, you're going to want it to provide as much battery life as possible. The first step is to shop around for a unit that offers the best battery life possible, and then seek out independent reviews to verify this performance. A good laptop should be able to run for four hours or more on a full charge, and as the technology advances, finding units that can double this time isn't unrealistic.
The operating system on most laptops will allow for the hardware to be configured to utilize the battery as efficiently as possible. It is just up to the user to navigate their way to these tabs and set things like the display to turn off, hard drives to power down, or even the processor to slow down when it isn't needed to run full speed. Not all processors can provide this speed throttling, but finding a system with a Mobile Pentium/Celeron or Centrino processor may be your best bet to ensure this capability.
Another way to ensure extended life away from a power outlet is to just add a second battery. Although you can obviously carry a charged spare in your bag, some laptops allow for two batteries to be installed at once, with one generally replacing the optical disk drive.
Size / Weight:
All laptop computers are not created equal, and the size and weight of the various models reflect that. Some may weigh more than others due to the quantity of components included, but it may also be due to the quality of the components. Larger displays, multiple hard drives, and other integrated components will all contribute to the weight of a laptop. The largest single source of weight in a laptop may be the battery, and systems with two batteries as described above, should be expected to be much heavier.
No laptop may be considered heavy in the grand scheme of things, but just a few pounds more may be noticeable if you regularly have to lug it through a busy airport or across a large college campus. Geeks.com may not provided the exact weight of each laptop they carry, but they do provide a shipping weight for each, which is a good approximation of what the laptop and various accessories will weigh when loaded into your carrying bag.
The overall size of a laptop is generally governed by the size of the display included. You may have seen the commercial where Yao Ming (7'5" basketball player) and Verne Troyer (Mini-Me) compare their laptops with 12 inch and 17 inch monitors. It is an excellent demonstration of the range of sizes available in laptop computers, and how the various sizes may be appropriate for different users. Those seeking a replacement for their desktop computer may insist on a 17” display, while those seeking to minimize size and weight in the name of portability may be willing to select a laptop with a smaller display.
Future Proof:
Basically, purchase as much laptop as you can afford, so that a year or two down the road you may be less likely to need a replacement.
Processors in a laptop are generally not upgradeable, or at least quite difficult to upgrade, so picking something with marginally adequate speed for today’s needs will no doubt be obsolete sooner than you might expect. Desktop computers generally offer the convenience of having their processors (and other components) upgraded, making it less of an issue, but it is important to plan ahead with laptops, or to plan on buying another one in a few years.
The graphics processor is another integrated feature that should be considered before making a purchase, as there is no upgrading. Many laptops may offer somewhat basic graphics intended for good 2D display and 3D displays that may be hit or miss as far as the quality is concerned. In general, laptops were never intended for 3D gaming, but things are changing and many manufacturers now offer higher performance graphics solutions that can rival many desktop computers. ATI is well known for their high performance graphics products, and offer the Mobility Radeon X series of graphics processors based on their popular desktop solutions.
Laptop memory is less of a bottleneck, as it is readily available and can be upgraded rather easily. That said, many notebooks offer a base configuration of memory that may not be adequate for your particular needs. It is suggested that a Windows XP system have a minimum of 256MB of memory, and you may find that this is what is offered on many systems. 512MB is the recommended amount of memory for smooth operation on Windows XP, and many users with more intensive applications to run may insist on 1024MB. If you intend to run serious business applications or want to play some modern 3D games, it may be worth having that base 256MB upgraded before the laptop ships to you.
Final Words:
Picking a laptop computer will probably be more involved than reviewing five simple steps, but you have to start somewhere! Each of these steps will hopefully guide other decisions and make the process less frustrating, while also leading to the selection of the best laptop possible.
How to choose a laptop or notebook
Choosing a portable computer is a bit like choosing a car. There are all sorts of jean-jacket-wearing experts who will point out the merits of each one, but it will be up to you if you are happiest in a Lotus or a Reliant Robin.
This is because portables are less about functionality and more about style. To the average person who uses one regularly, they are more of a fashion accessory and a statement to the other people sharing the carriage with you that not only do you work, but you do it in a measure of style and are valued by your technologically advanced company.
It can also show you up to be a cheapskate or a poor sucker whose company is punishing them by ordering them to carry around a brick and, more to the point, actually type detailed reports on it.
Like ordinary computers, a laptop, or notebook, or mobile network interface (you can just tell how pretentious the portable network market is) needs to have a certain amount of functionality first.
Here you must decide what you want to actually do with your laptop. Do you want it to write documents, databases and emails on the move?
All keyed up
First and foremost, you need to be able to use the keyboard. There is nothing more irritating that trying to type on a keyboard that is too small, or has keys that do not respond to your particular brand of typing. The only way to test this is in the shop.
It doesn't matter if you're the world's fastest typist: nothing can make working on a laptop harder than a keyboard that was designed for someone with fingers the size of a five-year-old, or where you have to push the keys too hard.
Screen test
Next you are going to need a screen you can see. Most portables use colour flat screens, so make sure that you're really happy with the visual effect. There are some different types of technology involved here, but really, it's a beauty-is-in-the-eye-of-the-beholder thing.
Also check to see how it responds to light. Some cheaper screens turn as invisible as a vampire at the first sign of sunlight. All screens have this problem, but some are worse than others.
Mouse matters
You will also need a mouse. Funny that. You are so used to them on a PC, the moment you lose them, you go to pieces.
The fact is that most laptops have never worked out a good or effective way of using a mouse. Some use a stick in the middle of the keyboard which usually does nothing better than break. Others use a touch-sensitive box, with a click button. With the latter, it's about as hard to get a curser to where you want as it is to land an aircraft in fog with no instruments. You're better off using telekinesis and trying to move the cursor with your mind.
Fortunately most laptops come with an alternative - an ordinary mouse. If a model doesn't have the sockets to use one, I seriously recommend you buy one that does. However, just remember that using a mouse will make the portability of your laptop that much harder.
Do you need the internet?
If you don't, then you're missing out on a lot of the advantages of a laptop. But hey, don't let me call you a Luddite; there must be all sorts of people in the world who don't want to be contacted by the office, read their email, and search for information on the move.
However, if you do want to do any off these things (and let's face it, it's what having a mobile office is all about), then you're going to need a modem card. This looks like a chunky metal credit card and slides into a slot in the PC. Once in, it enables you to connect to an ordinary phone.
Make sure you get a 56K modem that is GSM friendly so that you can connect using a mobile phone via a lead or infra-red connection.
It's worthwhile finding a laptop that has infra-red. This means you don't need to worry about cables to a mobile phone.
How fast does it need to be?
All laptops are slower than PCs. There is usually about a six-month to a year time lag behind the development of chips. The faster they are, they usually become criminally expensive. But this matters less on a portable because you are less likely to want the processor-hungry graphics to play games on.
In general, settle for the fastest you can afford, but be prepared for it to be slower.
Weight
This is probably the most important thing for a laptop. You really want it as light as you can get. This is because you have to carry it, and after a while even the lightest machine can end up feeling like it requires the strength of the Incredible Hulk.
The lighter they are, the more expensive they get. Lately some notebooks are less than an inch thick and it is worthwhile seeing if you can afford one. (The amount you save on thickness is spent on medical bills repairing damaged muscles).
Looks
As I said earlier, laptops are a fashion statement that could be as valuable to you as your filofax or mobile phone. There's no point buying one that looks ugly: people will just point and laugh.
How much should I spend?
Using the cheap option, you shouldn't look at under £1500 (this is about Ford Fiesta level) but you can spend up to £5000 for a bells and whistles 'Aston Martin' style notebook. As a rule of thumb, they cost about three times more than a regular PC.
This is because portables are less about functionality and more about style. To the average person who uses one regularly, they are more of a fashion accessory and a statement to the other people sharing the carriage with you that not only do you work, but you do it in a measure of style and are valued by your technologically advanced company.
It can also show you up to be a cheapskate or a poor sucker whose company is punishing them by ordering them to carry around a brick and, more to the point, actually type detailed reports on it.
Like ordinary computers, a laptop, or notebook, or mobile network interface (you can just tell how pretentious the portable network market is) needs to have a certain amount of functionality first.
Here you must decide what you want to actually do with your laptop. Do you want it to write documents, databases and emails on the move?
All keyed up
First and foremost, you need to be able to use the keyboard. There is nothing more irritating that trying to type on a keyboard that is too small, or has keys that do not respond to your particular brand of typing. The only way to test this is in the shop.
It doesn't matter if you're the world's fastest typist: nothing can make working on a laptop harder than a keyboard that was designed for someone with fingers the size of a five-year-old, or where you have to push the keys too hard.
Screen test
Next you are going to need a screen you can see. Most portables use colour flat screens, so make sure that you're really happy with the visual effect. There are some different types of technology involved here, but really, it's a beauty-is-in-the-eye-of-the-beholder thing.
Also check to see how it responds to light. Some cheaper screens turn as invisible as a vampire at the first sign of sunlight. All screens have this problem, but some are worse than others.
Mouse matters
You will also need a mouse. Funny that. You are so used to them on a PC, the moment you lose them, you go to pieces.
The fact is that most laptops have never worked out a good or effective way of using a mouse. Some use a stick in the middle of the keyboard which usually does nothing better than break. Others use a touch-sensitive box, with a click button. With the latter, it's about as hard to get a curser to where you want as it is to land an aircraft in fog with no instruments. You're better off using telekinesis and trying to move the cursor with your mind.
Fortunately most laptops come with an alternative - an ordinary mouse. If a model doesn't have the sockets to use one, I seriously recommend you buy one that does. However, just remember that using a mouse will make the portability of your laptop that much harder.
Do you need the internet?
If you don't, then you're missing out on a lot of the advantages of a laptop. But hey, don't let me call you a Luddite; there must be all sorts of people in the world who don't want to be contacted by the office, read their email, and search for information on the move.
However, if you do want to do any off these things (and let's face it, it's what having a mobile office is all about), then you're going to need a modem card. This looks like a chunky metal credit card and slides into a slot in the PC. Once in, it enables you to connect to an ordinary phone.
Make sure you get a 56K modem that is GSM friendly so that you can connect using a mobile phone via a lead or infra-red connection.
It's worthwhile finding a laptop that has infra-red. This means you don't need to worry about cables to a mobile phone.
How fast does it need to be?
All laptops are slower than PCs. There is usually about a six-month to a year time lag behind the development of chips. The faster they are, they usually become criminally expensive. But this matters less on a portable because you are less likely to want the processor-hungry graphics to play games on.
In general, settle for the fastest you can afford, but be prepared for it to be slower.
Weight
This is probably the most important thing for a laptop. You really want it as light as you can get. This is because you have to carry it, and after a while even the lightest machine can end up feeling like it requires the strength of the Incredible Hulk.
The lighter they are, the more expensive they get. Lately some notebooks are less than an inch thick and it is worthwhile seeing if you can afford one. (The amount you save on thickness is spent on medical bills repairing damaged muscles).
Looks
As I said earlier, laptops are a fashion statement that could be as valuable to you as your filofax or mobile phone. There's no point buying one that looks ugly: people will just point and laugh.
How much should I spend?
Using the cheap option, you shouldn't look at under £1500 (this is about Ford Fiesta level) but you can spend up to £5000 for a bells and whistles 'Aston Martin' style notebook. As a rule of thumb, they cost about three times more than a regular PC.
Before You Choose a Notebook PC
Notebook systems have grown in popularity due to their increasing performance and portability. Many systems are even now being marketed as replacements for desktop systems, but few can perform at the same level as a desktop system particularly when it comes to graphics. This guide will help you to look at some of the key items you want to look at before you purchase your next PC notebook system.
Size and Weight
Obviously the size and weight of a notebook is important. Ultraportables offer light weight and sizes but sacrifice items such as drives. Desktop replacements have equivalent power to desktop systems, but they are heavy and bulky making them difficult to carry around. When shopping for a laptop, make sure to pick up the systems and verify its something you are willing to carry. Don't forget to also consider the weight of accessories such as AC adapter when carrying around the notebook.
Processors (CPU)
Notebook processors typically were slower than desktop CPUs, but that has changed. Dual-core processors are starting to become common and help with multitasking. The type of processors found in the notebook will vary based upon the size and purpose of the notebook. They have a direct impact on performance as well as battery life so comparison can be difficult. Check out my listings for suggested processors for the various types of notebook PCs available.
Memory (RAM)
Notebooks are generally more restricted in the amount of memory they can have compared to desktops. When looking at computers you want to make sure to check out the maximum memory the system can handle as well as the amount that is installed in the computer. It's also useful to find out if a memory upgrade can be done yourself or if it has to be done by a technician. One Gigabyte should really be the minimum amount of memory to consider with at 2GB for improved performance.
Displays and Video
The video on a notebook computer is comprised of the display and the video processor. The display is comprised of the screen size and the native resolution. The larger the display, the higher the resolution will typically be, but it also will impact how portable the system is. Wide screen displays are also becoming more popular. The graphics processor will determine the performance of the computer in things such as 3D graphics and PC gaming.
Drives
How much storage space will you need? Hard drives are fairly straight forward in terms of the size and the performance may be impacted by the rotational speed. Optical drives play a more important role when purchasing a notebook PC. These can either be fairly simple CD-ROM drives for installing software all the way up to the latest high definition DVD burners. In most cases, notebook comptuers now come standard with a dual layer DVD burner. HD-DVD and Bluray are starting to show up, but still extremely expensive
Networking
The ability to connect to the net is integral to most notebooks today. Look for systems that include a built in 56Kbps modem and Fast Ethernet. With the rise of wireless networking, this is also found in most new notebooks. For the minimum amount of wireless connectivity, look at getting a notebook with 802.11b/g. Systems with an 802.11a/b/g will give you the most amount of connectivity.
Battery Life
How good is a portable computer going to be if you are only able to get 30 minutes of computing time on a single charge? Try to find the manufacturer’s listed battery life for the standard battery. Look to get a system with at least 2 hours of battery life under normal conditions. If you need extended time unplugged, look for laptops with media bays that can double as extra battery slots or have extended life batteries that can be purchased.
Warranty Plans
Laptops take a lot of abuse and are more prone to breakdowns due to their portability. When buying a system, make sure to get at least a 1 year warranty from the manufacturer. If you will be using the system heavily, a system that comes with a 3 year warranty might be a better choice but it will cost more. Third party extended plans are not a good choice unless service is done through the manufacturer.
Size and Weight
Obviously the size and weight of a notebook is important. Ultraportables offer light weight and sizes but sacrifice items such as drives. Desktop replacements have equivalent power to desktop systems, but they are heavy and bulky making them difficult to carry around. When shopping for a laptop, make sure to pick up the systems and verify its something you are willing to carry. Don't forget to also consider the weight of accessories such as AC adapter when carrying around the notebook.
Processors (CPU)
Notebook processors typically were slower than desktop CPUs, but that has changed. Dual-core processors are starting to become common and help with multitasking. The type of processors found in the notebook will vary based upon the size and purpose of the notebook. They have a direct impact on performance as well as battery life so comparison can be difficult. Check out my listings for suggested processors for the various types of notebook PCs available.
Memory (RAM)
Notebooks are generally more restricted in the amount of memory they can have compared to desktops. When looking at computers you want to make sure to check out the maximum memory the system can handle as well as the amount that is installed in the computer. It's also useful to find out if a memory upgrade can be done yourself or if it has to be done by a technician. One Gigabyte should really be the minimum amount of memory to consider with at 2GB for improved performance.
Displays and Video
The video on a notebook computer is comprised of the display and the video processor. The display is comprised of the screen size and the native resolution. The larger the display, the higher the resolution will typically be, but it also will impact how portable the system is. Wide screen displays are also becoming more popular. The graphics processor will determine the performance of the computer in things such as 3D graphics and PC gaming.
Drives
How much storage space will you need? Hard drives are fairly straight forward in terms of the size and the performance may be impacted by the rotational speed. Optical drives play a more important role when purchasing a notebook PC. These can either be fairly simple CD-ROM drives for installing software all the way up to the latest high definition DVD burners. In most cases, notebook comptuers now come standard with a dual layer DVD burner. HD-DVD and Bluray are starting to show up, but still extremely expensive
Networking
The ability to connect to the net is integral to most notebooks today. Look for systems that include a built in 56Kbps modem and Fast Ethernet. With the rise of wireless networking, this is also found in most new notebooks. For the minimum amount of wireless connectivity, look at getting a notebook with 802.11b/g. Systems with an 802.11a/b/g will give you the most amount of connectivity.
Battery Life
How good is a portable computer going to be if you are only able to get 30 minutes of computing time on a single charge? Try to find the manufacturer’s listed battery life for the standard battery. Look to get a system with at least 2 hours of battery life under normal conditions. If you need extended time unplugged, look for laptops with media bays that can double as extra battery slots or have extended life batteries that can be purchased.
Warranty Plans
Laptops take a lot of abuse and are more prone to breakdowns due to their portability. When buying a system, make sure to get at least a 1 year warranty from the manufacturer. If you will be using the system heavily, a system that comes with a 3 year warranty might be a better choice but it will cost more. Third party extended plans are not a good choice unless service is done through the manufacturer.
Laptop Computers Buying Guide
Buying a laptop PC can be a confusing experience - no matter how much you know about computers. Changing technology and complicated specifications often make finding the right laptop PC difficult. Our laptop computer guide helps you understand what to look for.
A laptop is a small portable computer that can run on batteries for short periods. Laptops used to be the reserve of businessmen and professionals, but as technology has developed and prices have come down, they are now a serious consideration over a desktop PC. Our laptop guide helps you understand the different types of laptop and what to look for in a new computer.
Why choose a laptop?
The main advantage of a laptop computer is that you can use it anywhere - depending on the weight of your chosen laptop of course. Most laptops are now capable of running for several hours on battery power and the very best can now run for 5-6 hours.
Perhaps the main disadvantage is that, aside from adding more memory, laptops are hard to upgrade, which makes it more important to choose the right model to begin with.
Laptop terminology explained
One of the most difficult things to understand when buying a laptop computer is the terminology. Here is our guide to some of the key terms you'll encounter:
Processors
The processor (or CPU) is the brain of the machine, controlling all aspects of the laptop computer. Processors are made up of millions of tiny transistors that can process huge numbers of instructions per second. The speed of a processor is measured in Gigahertz (GHz).
There are two types of processor - Intel and AMD. Each manufacturer has different models for laptops:
* Intel Celeron M - for basic tasks and performance
* AMD Sempron Mobile - for basic tasks and performance
* Intel Centrino Solo - General / high-end performance
* AMD Athlon 64 Mobile - General / high-end performance
* Intel Centrino Duo - High-end performance
* AMD Turion 64 - High-end performance
Memory
Memory is temporary storage used by programs and files currently running on your computer. Memory is known as RAM, or Random Access Memory, and needs power to be able to store information. So, when your computer is switched off, the information is forgotten about. Memory or RAM is not to be confused with your hard drive; that's permanent storage for programs and files. Memory is measured in Megabytes (MB) and Gigabytes (GB).
Hard drive
Desktop computers generally offer more hard drive space than laptops. The size of your hard drive is important if you want to save lots of music and videos.
Optical drives
Optical drives are the tray drives in the front or side of a computer, similar to those found on your stereo or DVD player. Drives allow you to load and install software and write (or "burn") data to a disc. New computers usually have at least a CD-RW drive. Optical drives come in many formats:
* CD-ROM - only reads CDs
* CD-RW - Record and play CDs
* DVD-ROM - reads CDs and DVDs
* DVD RW - Record and play CDs and DVDs
* DVD Dual Layer - Loads double DVD
Operating systems
An operating system is what allows you to use applications and generally access all of the information you have on your computer. By far the most popular operating system in the world is Microsoft Windows, the most recent of which is Microsoft Windows XP. All the laptops and desktop computers Tesco sell will have a windows operating system pre-installed.
Graphics cards
Graphics cards enable the laptop to display graphic information. They can either be integrated, or dedicated. Integrated graphics cards share memory with your laptop, as they do not have their own. Dedicated graphics cards on the other hand do have their own memory and operate faster and at higher quality. If you are looking for gameplay and video playback, make sure you get a laptop with a dedicated graphics card.
Connectivity
Laptops can link up with all of the same types of accessories that a desktop can. They have USB ports for easy connectivity to peripherals such as printers and webcams. Both laptops and desktops also include Ethernet ports for connecting to a wired network, and are likely to have a built-in modem for connecting to the Internet. You can also find PC cards that slot into the side of your laptop to provide wireless access, while some laptops have built in wireless antennae.
What will you use your laptop for?
Laptops differ in price and performance depending on what they're used for. For example, there is no point spending thousands on a state-of-the-art gaming computer if you only use it for occasional Internet browsing and word-processing. Laptops can be separated into three categories:
* Budget laptops
* Ultra portable / ultra thin and light laptops
* Desktop replacement - Media and gaming laptops
Budget / home laptop computer
A budget laptop can still deliver surprisingly fast performance with a range of extra features. A good choice if you expect to only use your laptop for word-processing and simple applications, and don't have to carry it around too much.
You should look for:
* A Celeron M or Sempron Mobile processor
* 128MB RAM
* 20GB hard drive
* Integrated Graphics card
* CD-RW Drive
* 14 inch display
* Microsoft XP Home Edition
Ultra portable / ultra thin and light laptops
These compact laptops are ideal for the business traveller or for someone who is regularly on the move. Some of the smallest weigh less than two kilos; yet still offer good performance and memory.
You should look for:
* Centrino Solo processor or Athlon 64 Mobile
* 256 MB RAM
* Over 20GB hard drive
* Windows XP Home or Professional
* 12-inch display
* Wireless networking ready - also known as 802.11g
Desktop replacement / gaming / power use laptop
These are laptops for the most demanding users - but users that don't mind a larger size of computer. Desktop replacements are not designed for commuting or regular travel. Instead they can offer everything from digital TV recording and online gaming to video editing and MP3 storage. You can even buy widescreen laptops for playing DVDs. You'll need a larger hard drive to store all of your information.
You should look for:
* Turion 64 or Centrino Duo
* 512MB - 1GB RAM
* 60GB - 120GB hard drive
* Graphics card with 64 MB memory
* 15-inch display or larger
* DVD-RW drive
* Multimedia connections, including USB, FireWire and S-Video
* Windows XP Professional
A laptop is a small portable computer that can run on batteries for short periods. Laptops used to be the reserve of businessmen and professionals, but as technology has developed and prices have come down, they are now a serious consideration over a desktop PC. Our laptop guide helps you understand the different types of laptop and what to look for in a new computer.
Why choose a laptop?
The main advantage of a laptop computer is that you can use it anywhere - depending on the weight of your chosen laptop of course. Most laptops are now capable of running for several hours on battery power and the very best can now run for 5-6 hours.
Perhaps the main disadvantage is that, aside from adding more memory, laptops are hard to upgrade, which makes it more important to choose the right model to begin with.
Laptop terminology explained
One of the most difficult things to understand when buying a laptop computer is the terminology. Here is our guide to some of the key terms you'll encounter:
Processors
The processor (or CPU) is the brain of the machine, controlling all aspects of the laptop computer. Processors are made up of millions of tiny transistors that can process huge numbers of instructions per second. The speed of a processor is measured in Gigahertz (GHz).
There are two types of processor - Intel and AMD. Each manufacturer has different models for laptops:
* Intel Celeron M - for basic tasks and performance
* AMD Sempron Mobile - for basic tasks and performance
* Intel Centrino Solo - General / high-end performance
* AMD Athlon 64 Mobile - General / high-end performance
* Intel Centrino Duo - High-end performance
* AMD Turion 64 - High-end performance
Memory
Memory is temporary storage used by programs and files currently running on your computer. Memory is known as RAM, or Random Access Memory, and needs power to be able to store information. So, when your computer is switched off, the information is forgotten about. Memory or RAM is not to be confused with your hard drive; that's permanent storage for programs and files. Memory is measured in Megabytes (MB) and Gigabytes (GB).
Hard drive
Desktop computers generally offer more hard drive space than laptops. The size of your hard drive is important if you want to save lots of music and videos.
Optical drives
Optical drives are the tray drives in the front or side of a computer, similar to those found on your stereo or DVD player. Drives allow you to load and install software and write (or "burn") data to a disc. New computers usually have at least a CD-RW drive. Optical drives come in many formats:
* CD-ROM - only reads CDs
* CD-RW - Record and play CDs
* DVD-ROM - reads CDs and DVDs
* DVD RW - Record and play CDs and DVDs
* DVD Dual Layer - Loads double DVD
Operating systems
An operating system is what allows you to use applications and generally access all of the information you have on your computer. By far the most popular operating system in the world is Microsoft Windows, the most recent of which is Microsoft Windows XP. All the laptops and desktop computers Tesco sell will have a windows operating system pre-installed.
Graphics cards
Graphics cards enable the laptop to display graphic information. They can either be integrated, or dedicated. Integrated graphics cards share memory with your laptop, as they do not have their own. Dedicated graphics cards on the other hand do have their own memory and operate faster and at higher quality. If you are looking for gameplay and video playback, make sure you get a laptop with a dedicated graphics card.
Connectivity
Laptops can link up with all of the same types of accessories that a desktop can. They have USB ports for easy connectivity to peripherals such as printers and webcams. Both laptops and desktops also include Ethernet ports for connecting to a wired network, and are likely to have a built-in modem for connecting to the Internet. You can also find PC cards that slot into the side of your laptop to provide wireless access, while some laptops have built in wireless antennae.
What will you use your laptop for?
Laptops differ in price and performance depending on what they're used for. For example, there is no point spending thousands on a state-of-the-art gaming computer if you only use it for occasional Internet browsing and word-processing. Laptops can be separated into three categories:
* Budget laptops
* Ultra portable / ultra thin and light laptops
* Desktop replacement - Media and gaming laptops
Budget / home laptop computer
A budget laptop can still deliver surprisingly fast performance with a range of extra features. A good choice if you expect to only use your laptop for word-processing and simple applications, and don't have to carry it around too much.
You should look for:
* A Celeron M or Sempron Mobile processor
* 128MB RAM
* 20GB hard drive
* Integrated Graphics card
* CD-RW Drive
* 14 inch display
* Microsoft XP Home Edition
Ultra portable / ultra thin and light laptops
These compact laptops are ideal for the business traveller or for someone who is regularly on the move. Some of the smallest weigh less than two kilos; yet still offer good performance and memory.
You should look for:
* Centrino Solo processor or Athlon 64 Mobile
* 256 MB RAM
* Over 20GB hard drive
* Windows XP Home or Professional
* 12-inch display
* Wireless networking ready - also known as 802.11g
Desktop replacement / gaming / power use laptop
These are laptops for the most demanding users - but users that don't mind a larger size of computer. Desktop replacements are not designed for commuting or regular travel. Instead they can offer everything from digital TV recording and online gaming to video editing and MP3 storage. You can even buy widescreen laptops for playing DVDs. You'll need a larger hard drive to store all of your information.
You should look for:
* Turion 64 or Centrino Duo
* 512MB - 1GB RAM
* 60GB - 120GB hard drive
* Graphics card with 64 MB memory
* 15-inch display or larger
* DVD-RW drive
* Multimedia connections, including USB, FireWire and S-Video
* Windows XP Professional
Tips On Using The Laptop Safely
In the world that we live in today, the need to be able to do computing on the go has become the need of the hour and thus more people are turning towards using a laptop to facilitate its use anywhere and at anytime. It does not matter that you are commuting to the workplace or out on a business trip; the laptop allows you to click away on the keyword and thus lets you complete important tasks even when you are outside the office, or even the home.
No doubt, mobile computing affords you a number of conveniences though there are a few inconveniences to contend with as well such as having limited time available with which to use the laptop on battery power and also the looming danger that dirt can get into the keys and thus ruin your computing.
To get the most out of your laptop, you need to take a few precautions which will go a long way in ensuring that you are never left in the lurch just when you need to use your mobile device the most. First off, you need to ensure that you take critical backups as often as is possible, and the need to backup your information is especially strong in the case of a laptop.
Second off, you need to also ensure that you keep your laptop locked, especially when out on the road with it, and you also need to ensure that it is protected by a firewall and that your login password is safe from prying eyes. To further ensure the safety of the data on your laptop, you can also use tools to encrypt the information so that it does not easily get read by unauthorized people.
You should also makes sure that your laptop is properly charged, since when you use it on the road, the battery is easily drained and though keeping extra batteries handy is one option, it is must easier and more convenient to ensures that the batteries are fully charged prior to switching the machine on using battery power.
Other pointers that will help you get the most out of your laptop are to ensure that it is always kept clean and to also have a carrying case when taking it out on the road with you. If your laptop is subjected to spills and other form of dirt, you can be sure that it is going to give up on you and so you should make use of protective covers for the keyboard, or even use cotton swabs to clean up the machine every now and then.
With these pointers in mind, you can be assured that you will be able to put your laptop to good use and enjoy the convenience of mobile computing.
No doubt, mobile computing affords you a number of conveniences though there are a few inconveniences to contend with as well such as having limited time available with which to use the laptop on battery power and also the looming danger that dirt can get into the keys and thus ruin your computing.
To get the most out of your laptop, you need to take a few precautions which will go a long way in ensuring that you are never left in the lurch just when you need to use your mobile device the most. First off, you need to ensure that you take critical backups as often as is possible, and the need to backup your information is especially strong in the case of a laptop.
Second off, you need to also ensure that you keep your laptop locked, especially when out on the road with it, and you also need to ensure that it is protected by a firewall and that your login password is safe from prying eyes. To further ensure the safety of the data on your laptop, you can also use tools to encrypt the information so that it does not easily get read by unauthorized people.
You should also makes sure that your laptop is properly charged, since when you use it on the road, the battery is easily drained and though keeping extra batteries handy is one option, it is must easier and more convenient to ensures that the batteries are fully charged prior to switching the machine on using battery power.
Other pointers that will help you get the most out of your laptop are to ensure that it is always kept clean and to also have a carrying case when taking it out on the road with you. If your laptop is subjected to spills and other form of dirt, you can be sure that it is going to give up on you and so you should make use of protective covers for the keyboard, or even use cotton swabs to clean up the machine every now and then.
With these pointers in mind, you can be assured that you will be able to put your laptop to good use and enjoy the convenience of mobile computing.
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