Choosing a Laptop Computer
Laptop computers are one of the most desirable techie gadgets. A
laptop is a portable computer that could comfortably be used
while on a person's lap - hence the name. It contains all the
basic and necessary software (like Office System and Internet
access) and hardware (like CD-Rom drive and Modem) features of
an ordinary computer and still fits in an ordinary briefcase or
backpack.
Advantages of Owning a Laptop
1. Portability
Being portable, it can be brought along and used anywhere -
school, work, vacation trips, unlike the ordinary desktop
computer. This is especially handy to a person with a very
hectic schedule and busy lifestyle. In this regard, a computer
addict doesn't have to be a hermit anymore! He or she can go out
under the glaring rays of the sun and still hold on to the best
technological breakthrough product.
2. Convenience
It is useful for the working person, for the student, for the
hobbyist, and for a computer addict too. One can take notes in
class, type and print assignments and reports, access the
Internet and communicate with another person on the other side
of the globe. Teachers and public relations officers can make
use of the laptop to give a different dimension to their
presentations. Some teachers also find students are more
motivated when using a laptop.
3. Size and Weight
The dormer and studio type apartment lessee would agree that a
laptop would save them more space.
4. Image
It cannot be denied that a laptop is cool. With its sleek shape
and form, it can be very eye-catching. It also gives the
statement that the owner is not outdated, that he or she is in
keeping with the times, and finally, computer literate.
Laptops are not that expensive anymore, but this is not the kind
of item a person would shop for every other week. Each and every
laptop has its own demands, requirements and features. Features
you may want to look for:
1. Size and weight. Laptops are portable, but their sizes and
weight still vary. To be very portable, it must be small and
lightweight. They usually weigh 5 pounds. If it will be used
outdoors more often, the weight should not be more than 5
pounds.
The size of the screen is also important. The usual sizes are
12.1, 13.3 and 14.4 inches. Tiny screens, as small as 8 inches,
are ideal for portability, but the demands of the eyes - to have
a squint-free screen - should also be considered.
2. Sturdy. A laptop must be taken care of, but it would be more
ideal to have a tough and sturdy one that will be able to
withstand any accidental knock or minor bump. There are models
available with shock-resistant hard drive mounts. It has to be
durable enough if it will be taken outdoors often.
3. Internet connection. One has to be in touch with the rest of
the online community. There are wireless connections offered
already. To one with budget constraints, an ordinary 56Kbps
modem would do to connect to the rest of the world.
4. USB port. This should also be carefully checked out so that
the laptop can be used in many more ways. There should be at
least one USB port if not more, for future expansion of adding
other hardware. The USB port can be used for external keyboard
and mouse, but it is most useful to create connection with
digital cameras, external drives, and MP3 players.
5. Battery life. The battery life of the laptop must allow the
user to use and enjoy it outdoors or in areas that do not offer
power resources for the public. A reasonable battery life should
not be lower than 5 hours. The battery life will determine the
extent of freedom that can be enjoyed with the laptop.
There are 3 kinds of batteries available.
The Lithium-ion (Li+) is usually chosen. Li+ batteries have
range that can offer the best quality.
Nickel metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries are less expensive,
although they do not excle in terms of battery life.
Nickel cadmium (NiCad) batteries are the ones to stay away from.
They require constant recharging.
6. Technical specifications. There should be enough RAM, storage
space / hard drive and computing speed. The technical
specifications would depend on the most probable purpose of the
laptop to the owner. If the laptop would be used for playing 3D
games, it is ideal to get at least a 256 RAM. If several music
or video files will be stored, a larger hard drive should be
considered, 40 gigabyte is ideal.
7. Price. Finally, the laptop should be reasonably priced. There
are refurbished laptops available out there for those with
strict budgets but there is a way to save money and still get
the ideal laptop.
First, the purpose that the laptop will serve must be properly
ascertained. This will avoid purchasing laptops with expensive
features that would end up being unused. Don't buy 80 gigabyte
of storage space if only 3 gigabytes will be used for documents.
Stick to your budget. There are many attractive add-ons in the
computer shop like glow-in-the-dark mouse pads or wireless
mouse. These may not be necessary and can add to the total cost.
Negotiate for add-on features. Lastly, it wouldn't hurt to try
to negotiate for the price. 5% off can go a long way.
About the author:
David Arnold Livingston is a successful business owner and likes
to stay current with technology. He recommends the resource: Laptop Unlimited.
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