Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Which Notebook Computer Has Your Name On It? (by Titus Hoskins)

Notebook Computers Are Sexy!

Granted, the notebook computer may just be the
sexiest accessory this side of a Baywatch Extra!
But are they worth the extra money? Should your
next PC be a notebook or laptop computer?

What are the pros and cons of owning a notebook
computer? More importantly, which notebook is
best for you?

There's no denying it -- notebook computers are sexy!
Slim, svelte and lightweight; they always come across as
looking sexy, the ultimate in high fashion accessories.

Maybe sexy isn't the most appropriate word -- we
are talking about chips, hard drives and bits of metal.
But you have to admit; they do look good on just about
anybody!

However; don't let the good looks fool you! And don't
get blinded by all that sleek metal and flashy designs.

The notebook is one little workhorse whose time
may just have come. Growing in popularity as prices
decline, it's definitely worth considering
when you make your next PC purchase.

All kidding aside, finding the right notebook that has
your name on it can be a daunting task!

Basically, you have to narrow it down to a few simple
steps. Then consider all your options before you make
your decision.

First, ask yourself -- what types of tasks, jobs, do
you want the computer to perform? Do you want it
for traveling, business, or for use in the home?

Do you want it for simple tasks like email, web
browsing or to use as a word processor? Do you want it
for gaming, web authoring, heavy graphic work, dvd
or MP3 downloading?

Next, consider all these options and find the notebook
that best suits your needs. Remember, it's your needs
that have to be fulfilled. Don't let a pushy salesperson
talk you into buying something you will never need
or use.

At the same time, make sure you buy a notebook that
has all the features that will complete all the tasks
you throw at it. In other words, make sure it
can do the job!

Keep that question in the back of your head as you
read the rest of this article. Especially, keep it
in mind, as you browse thru all these sleek models and
makes of notebooks. Don't be dazzled by all that
sexiness!

Keep your eyes on the cursor!

Keep asking yourself -- what does my new notebook
computer need in order for it to get the job done?

Lets take a closer look at all the options.

First, like anything sexy; notebooks come in all
shapes and sizes.

SMALL: How small can they be?

They can be as tiny as well -- the small traditional
paper notebooks -- with 10-inch displays. There is
even a sub category known as Tablet PCs; these are
very small tablets where you enter the data using
a stylus. Common in certain fields, like health
care or real estate.

Up a step from there -- are the 'Ultraportables'.
You can easily take these anywhere as they fit nicely in
a handbag or carry on bag. These are used by fliers
and travelers, they are light and small with 12 inch
screens without internal CD or DVD drives. They
don't match the performance of other larger notebooks.

LARGE: How large can they be?

They can be as big as 6 or 7 pounds or more. Over an
inch thick and come with 15 or 17-inch displays
these are often referred to as 'Desktop Replacements'

And just as their name states -- these can replace
your old desktop computer. For most purposes, these
notebooks can perform all the tasks of a regular pc,
have large screens, big keyboards, combo drives and very
large hard drives. But you have the handy option of
moving these from room to room for wireless networking,
or even for traveling.

MID-SIZE

In between these two groups; we have the business
class notebooks. These are often referred to as
'Thin-and-lights' -- they offer the best all around
convenience of performance, portability and the
different features.

Mostly preferred by the business travelers. They
have 14-inch screens, CD-RW/DVD drives, wireless
networking, because they are so versatile, these
'do-it-all' notebooks or laptops are becoming
really popular.

Basic Rundown

That's a basic overview or rundown on the different
types of notebooks. But you have to compare and
contrast the different features in a little more
detail if you want to figure out the best notebook
that's suited for your needs.

Since there are so many types and varieties of notebooks;
not to mention so many technical requirements... buying
a notebook can sometimes be confusing. And for some
people downright worrisome!

Will the notebook you choose get the job done? Will it
be able to do the applications, or tasks you want
it to perform?

Ease your Burden -- Make a Checklist!

If you don't want to be disappointed, here's a quick
'CheckList' of the features you want to check before
you buy your notebook computer.

* Processor: The heart of your notebook or computer. It
does the processing and applications. Most people prefer
Intel Pentium Processors; the higher the number the faster
it will process! Go with Pentium 4 if you can. Intel
Celeron is another choice.

* Speed: This is how fast your computer can process data and
perform your tasks. The faster the better! Latest models get
up to a blazing 3.6 GHz.

Tip: You might also want to check the rotational speed
of your notebook's hard disk as it can affect performance
a 5,400rpm notebook disk is much faster than a 4,200rpm
model. How fast the disk spins, will also determine the
performance level of your notebook.

* Hard Drive: Check if it has a fixed drive; some units
have drives you can swap. As for size; around 20GB for most
notebook drives. You'll need only a 20GB or 30GB for most
tasks on your notebook. If you handle large graphics or
large amount of files (dvd, M3Ps,etc.) you need more --
50 to 60GB or higher.

Also, keep in mind, that you also have the external
drive(s) option for storing and media-burning.

* Memory: How much do you need?

RAM (random-access memory). This is what the computer
uses to run applications and data on your operating
system. It's generally agreed that you need at least
256MB for Windows XP and Mac OS X. You will only need
128MB for other operating systems in Windows or Mac.

* CD-RW Drive: You will need a CD-ROM for installing.
And a CD-RW drive for burning your own CDs if that's
one of the tasks you want your notebook to do.

Keep in mind another option -- many notebooks can access
or use external drives for data storage, cd burning, etc.

* LCD Displays: Most have LCD screens; this is different
from your desktop CRT (cathode-ray tube) monitor but most
people are famaliar with this type of displays -- it's
commonly found in digital camera and video recorders.

* Screen Size: You have to consider what size LCD display
you want. If you're going to be viewing a lot of pictures
or movies on your notebook -- a large 15 or 17 inch would
be better suited for your needs.

Usually, LCD screens range in size from 12 inches to 17
inches (diagonal). Viewing is usually set at 1,024x768
resolution. Quality is almost standard in all these
notebooks. But check them out at your dealers if picture
quality is your main reason for buying a notebook.

Note-- Fujitsu LifeBook P ultraportable series has the
smallest displays 10.6 inches. The Apple PowerBook has
one of the largest at 17-inches.

* Modems: Most if not all notebooks have 56Kbps-modems
and Ethernet connections. As well as connections (ports)
for printers, VGA for external monitor and there should
be one or more USB ports for keyboards, drives, MP3's
and digital cameras.

* Antennas: Most notebooks have built-in antennas for
wireless networking and portability. But check before
you buy!

* Portability: Might sound like a strange question
to ask about notebooks. Not really, most notebooks are
very portable, easy to carry -- what they were designed for.
However; larger notebooks like the 'desktop replacemets'
with 17 inch screens and weighing over 7 pounds might
not be the best choice for the heavy traveler. For example
the new HP Pavilion zd8000 weights a whopping 12 lbs!

* Accessories: Lastly, you should look at some
accessories that you might need with your notebook
computer. Many come with a Docking station or port
replicator -- somewhere to store and access your
computer. Check on the functions of each before you buy.

You might consider buying an extra battery; especially
if you're buying your laptop mainly for traveling and
in the field work.

Laptop bag is another accessory you should definitely
consider buying. Again, notebooks might seem lightweight
and small but if you have lug it around all day and you're
going to wish you had bought that carrying bag.

Now Assess Your Computer Needs?

Finally, we come to the main question that determines which
notebook is right for you. (If money is no barrier!)

WHAT DO YOU NEED THE COMPUTER FOR? WHAT JOB OR TASKS DO
YOU WANT THE COMPUTER TO PERFORM?

If you want something small to carry on a plane, or if you
travel a lot, then go with an utralight -- often called
ultraportables -- these are the lightest and smallest
notebooks, about the size of spiral-bound notebook and
weighing less than four pounds.

If you're a student and need something light weight but
also a little sturdy with a large hard drive (hold MP3s)
you might want to check out the 'thin and light' notebooks.

If you want to replace your main desktop with something
more portable -- go with a 'mainstream' or
'desktop replacements'.

If you want something you can use at home, work and
traveling around then you need 'thin and light.' If you
want an 'all-around' 'all-in-one' 'do-it-all' notebook ...
then buy a notebook of this type.

Because it's so flexible, and covers most of your computing
needs; this is the one that's becoming the most popular.

That's it - JUDGMENT TIME!

You have considered most of the facts about buying a
notebook computer. Now weight your options. Think about
the tasks you will be doing with your notebook. Look at
the checklist and check out the specs. Is everything covered.
Will the one you choose -- have the features to do the job?

Keep that question in your mind. It's the most important.

If you're considered all these points; buying the notebook
with your name on it will be just a little bit easier.

In no time at all, you may be walking around with
one of those sleek, svelte -- dare we say sexy --
accessories tucked under your arm.

Titus Hoskins
----

For An Illustrated Version of This Article Click Here: Buying Notebooks Online Guide

Copyright © 2005 Titus Hoskins of bizwaremagic.com.
This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.

Visit http://www.bizwaremagic.com for more simple solutions to your online marketing tasks.

10 Solid Reasons To Make Your Next PC A Notebook (by Titus Hoskins)

Notebook computers are becoming very popular. They seem
to be popping up everywhere: on tv shows, on airplanes,
in movies, or in your friend's lap. These sleek little
machines are invading our daily lives like never before...
and the invasion has just started. Find out why they have
become so popular with their users and why your next PC
should probably be a notebook computer.

It is estimated that over 42 million computer notebooks
will be produced this year. And that number is said to
be growing by 20% each year. So what's driving the demand
for these devices, what's making them so popular?

It's more than just the next tehno fad, notebook computers
offer some very practical solutions to our computing
requirements and needs. There are some real solid reasons why they
have become so popular among their users. These are the same
reasons why you should consider making your next PC purchase
a notebook or laptop computer.

So if you need convincing, here are those 10 solid reasons
why you should consider buying a notebook computer:

1. Size. This is one situation where size really does matter.
It's the main reason you should consider buying a notebook or
laptop in the first place. You want a PC that will fit neatly
in your hand to take to your next office meeting, you want
a convenient laptop to take to class or you want a notebook
for your next cross country business trip.

Notebooks come in a variety of sizes to match your needs or
purpose. They are categorized or grouped accordingly:

Tablet PC (smallest) Size of a paper tablet or notepad, less than 3
pounds.

Utra Portable (small), around 11" x 10", less than 1.3 inches thick, less
than 4 pounds.

Thin and Light (mid-size), around 11-14" x 11", 1 to 1.4 inches thick, from 5
to 7 pounds.

Desktop Replacements (largest), more than 13" x 11", more than 1.5 inches, more
than 7 pounds and up.

As you can see there is a great range of sizes so you should have no
trouble finding a notebook computer to satisfy your needs. Just match
the notebook size to the main purpose or use of your notebook and you
can't go wrong.

2. Portability. Probably the second, if not the most important reason
you're considering buying a notebook or laptop. You want a PC that's portable
and lightweight. One that you can take anywhere; to class, to meetings,
on business trips or from room to room in your home.

This freedom of movement -- taking your office or vital data along on
your business or personal travels is the main selling point of the
notebook computer. The portability factor is one you should seriously
consider -- do you need a portable computer for your home, work or just
for pure enjoyment.

3. Performance. Not too long ago, notebooks or laptops were viewed by
many as second class computers when compared to the performance and
speed of the mighty desktop PC. Distance cousins discreetly allocated
to the sidelines.

But things have changed! Although still not on par with the desktop,
thanks to the next generation notebook chipset, Intel's New Sonoma
Platform, many notebooks come very close to providing the performance level
of a desktop PC. Many notebooks, especially the desktop replacements,
already have impressive technical specs that would shame most ordinary
desktops. Some of these desktop replacements even use desktop processors
or CPU's.

With hard drives up to 100GB or more at (7,200rpm), with RAM up to 2MB in
some cases, and supported with Intel Pentium 4's, at 3.4GHz or more --- most
notebooks are very capable of handling almost all computing applications and
functions with ease. They can do the job.

4. Connections. We live in a wireless world. The notebook will do for
computers, what the cell phone did for the telephone industry -- make our
communications wireless. Being constantly connected to your friends, your
business or your family does have a certain appeal that can't be denied.
The notebook computer will give you this wireless connection.

Most notebooks now come with WI-FI (Wireless Fidelity), also known as
802.11 a/b/g, with the ability to stay connected no matter where you are.
As more and more businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and airports
offer these 'hot spots' or WI-FI service to their patrons, easy
connections will become commonplace.

5. Function. There are certain functions that are unique to the
notebook computer. The tablet PC provides a convenient device for note
taking and data gathering that's not practical on a desktop computer.
For business professionals such as doctors, lawyers, real estate
agents...these tablet notebooks do very practical 'in-the-field' chores
or tasks. Other notebooks are very useful for powerpoint presentations
at meetings and other gatherings.

6. Backup. The notebook or laptop can be used as a convenient backup
of your vital files and programs. Often overlooked, but the notebook can
provide a rather cheap and safe way to protect your sensitive data.
Anyone who has had a major or total loss of their hard drives can appreciate
the importance of having a safe backup system.

For those constantly surfing the net, exposing your sensitive data to
all the hazards (viruses, worms, spyware, etc.) can lead to problems.
Having a separate system stored on a laptop or notebook can
be a good way of working around this problem.

7. Variety. Notebooks and laptops offer much more variety than the
ordinary desktop PC. From a small pocket size tablet PC all the way
up to a Multi-Media desktop replacement that offers TV, Stereo,
CD/DVD Player, as well as a computer of course.

There is a greater range of systems to choose from; all the way from
sleek custom designed notebooks to huge monster gaming laptops, there's
something to satisfy most tastes. You can also buy a notebook to
match your style; from IBM black to Ferrari Red. It's out there.

8. Price and Availability. Notebooks are everywhere and they're
getting cheaper by the minute. Notebook prices are coming down, as
more and more notebooks are sold -- the price will drop even more.
They're still slightly more expensive than a desktop PC but the gap
is closing fast.

Finding a seller or dealer is very easy, shopping online directly
from the manufacturer or company is also becoming very popular. In addition,
there are also some very good reputable online dealers that's spreading
the notebook gospel. Your dream notebook is only a click away.

9.Sex Appeal. It has to be mentioned, notebook computers are sexy!
There's no denying it; these sleek, svelte machine are some of the
sexiest accessories this side of a Batwatch Extra. The notebook's great
looks will probably be the first drawing card for many people who's
considering buying a notebook. A fully functional accessory that will
not only turn heads but can also do the books.

10. Last but not least, the main reason you should consider buying a
notebook computer -- because you want one. Just for the convenience,
portability, or the downright pleasure of owning a notebook computer. Besides,
it's a proven medical fact that denying your wants or needs can be detrimental
to your health.

Go treat yourself!
For More Information on Buying Computer Notebooks and Laptops Click Here:
Computer Notebook Buyer's Guide.
Copyright © 2005 Titus Hoskins of http://www.bizwaremagic.com
This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached

Two Essential Accessories For Notebook Computers (by Lynn Chan)

A Good Notebook Bag

Forget those that are bundled with your notebook computer. Get
yourself a good notebook bag that is well-padded both on its
load-bearing straps, and 100% around the notebook itself.

Aren't all notebook bags built the same?
The answer is NO. There are countless bag types and variations.
Not all of them have your comfort and protection of the notebook
itself in mind. Most of them sacrifice style for substance, which
is worse than not having a notebook bag in the first place.

The best way to determine which notebook bag is the one for you
is to bring along your notebook while shopping. Put it in the bag
and ensure that it doesn't slip and slide around. Generous
spaces do not mean better protection! You want it to be snug.

Carry the bag with your notebook in it. Simulate a light
jog. Why? Experience tells me that's how you'll most
likely travel through the gates of airport hell. If the straps
start digging in those shoulders, start looking for alternatives.
A good strap should cushion those shocks as the bag bounces off
your shoulders while doing your airport jog.

Note also how the notebook bag opens up for main access. Again,
if you're a frequent traveler you'll want to have one that's easy
to retrieve and store your notebook for security checkpoint
purposes. The best are usually top-loading ones secured by either
a zipper or a flap. We recommend the flap versions because they
usually have an additional layer of cushioning right around the
top for the notebook, and secure well but open fast with magnetic
snaps/buttons.

The zipper types have none, and your poor notebook will get
whacked full-force if the bag topples head-long off an airport
luggage cart. Trust me on this bit: I've had enough times my
notebook took a tumble that way, and seen many other helpless
souls literally spill their notebook's guts across airport gates.

A good alternative to those shoulder-loading bags are the rolling
pilot cases. They are typically bigger than any shoulder-bearing
bags including backpacks, but offer solid protection with a
padded hinge-top opening similar to actual pilot cases. Roller
bags are also less taxing physically, and the generous
compartments in the bag means less luggage pieces to carry while
traveling.

A Heat Dissipating Cooler Or Pad

Heat is the number one notebook computer killer. Today's
notebooks are little thermal generators, with internal
temperatures that rise up to 150 degrees even with built-in
cooling fans.

Those internal fans and heat-dissipating systems work full time
more often than you think. That’s why they are usually the first
components in a notebook to die on you. When that happens, you'd
better not fire up that notebook, as it'll fry even before you
see the start screen.

So help out your hardest working notebook component and extend
its lifespan. Invest in a notebook cooler or a cooling pad.
Notebook coolers typically are low-rise, plastic or metal-faced
pedestals on which your notebook sits. They are equipped with a
fan or two inside, which serves to draw hot air away from under
your notebook, and thus promote a cooler operating environment.
Usually efficient enough to drop up to 15 degrees the operating
temperature, notebook coolers however require power for its fans
and would typically draw its power off your notebook's USB ports.
This could somewhat decrease your notebook's battery operating
time, but so far have proven to be negligible for many users.

Cooling pads normally do not have the fans, and are constructed
from some type of heat-dissipating material or designed a way
that your notebook would have extra clearance at the bottom to
promote natural air circulation. Despite the lack of fans, these
cooling pads do a surprisingly good job of cooling your notebook.
They are also much easier to carry with your notebook because
they are slimmer, lighter, and do not require power to do its job
therefore highly recommended.

Lynn Chan helps new owners learn about proper notebook care and use. To learn more, visit http://www.notebook-computer-infocenter.com For a limited time, get the free tutorial "5 Days To A Healthier Notebook Computer" at http://www.notebook-computer-infocenter.com/
5days-to-a-healthier-notebook.html