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Notebook Computer Basics

A notebook computer is usually one that will weigh in at less than 3 kilograms (6.6 pounds) and will usually be about 8 to 10.5 inches deep by 11 to 13 inches wide and an inch and a half thick. Most notebooks will fit into a normal briefcase, but it's smarter to get a custom notebook carrying case that will provide additional protection. While most notebooks once came with internal floppy drives, this is becoming less common as more people are relying on optical media and most notebooks will have at least a CD writer and usually a combo drive that will also write DVDs.

A notebook that is smaller than this and weighs around 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram) or less is usually referred to as a sub-notebook. Sub-notebooks are generally more limited in functionality and have fewer features. Their ease of use can be impaired by the size and limited internal peripherals. Some refer to the larger and heavier end of the notebook computer spectrum as desk-notes since they generally will function as a close equivalent of a desktop system.

Notebook computers will normally run on batteries, but whenever it's possible the use of an AC adapter is smart since it will maintain the battery's charge. The most common type batteries are lithium ion batteries because of their longer life span. Notebook usage times on battery vary widely and the manufacturers claims aren't always supported by user experience. If how long you can run on a single charge is an important issue, you'd be smart to check independent reviews to get a sense of the typical charge duration under real use. The essential components of a notebook component that you want o understand and check before buying include the LCD screen, graphic controllers, keyboard, touch-pad or trackball, memory, expansion ports, drives, processor and the amount of memory supplied as well as the maximum memory it supports. With the huge sizes of much software, the extensive graphic applications and the desire to watch videos on your notebook, a large hard drive (at least 60GB) and at least 512MB of fast memory are nearly essential. Keep in mind that most notebook video uses part of the main memory.

Since a notebook computer is portable and can be carried just about anywhere, and since more and more of both people's work and fun are computer related, a laptop has become a favored accessory for people who travel often. People on the move and who wish to carry on their business as usual, even during a journey, will find a laptop computer to be a very useful companion. Since there tends to be substantial empty time involved in travel, people can do a lot of work - from writing a document in Word to designing a presentation in PowerPoint - using a notebook computer while waiting in an airport or while flying. And with the explosion in wireless networking capability and wireless access points, you can surf the Net or send and receive emails from nearly anywhere. With high quality video and LCD screens, a notebook computer can also be a nice way to relax and watch a DVD when the work is over.

Sounds terrific right, but notebook computers do have some limitations. Because of the nature of their construction and specialized components, they are much more difficult (and expensive) to upgrade than a desktop system. Size and weight limitations also mean that a laptop computer may not be all that comfortable to work on. Without external peripherals - particularly an external full-size keyboard and a mouse, it's physically impossible to use a notebook in the 'correct' ergonomic setup. And if you opt for a notebook with an LCD screen smaller than 15 inches, it may not be satisfactory for extended use. Though this is less of an issue with the new generation of mobile processors, notebook computer processors are generally less powerful than what you can get in a comparable desktop system. Since many of the major brands produce excellent notebooks, your primary task is to be clear about just what you need in a notebook computer and which features are mandatory. Buying the most expensive model is rarely necessary and very good deals can be made on older models. Many users make the mistake of buying an expensive new notebook computer that's actually a more powerful machine than they need. And that just doesn't make good sense - you do have other uses for your money, right?

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