What you should know about Laptop Computers

Laptop computer systems keep growing in popularity because they keep increasing in performance and portability. Many companies are marketing notebooks as a replacement for desktop PCs. But so far only a few can perform at the level of a desktop system, particularly the graphics. Just follow this guide to help you to learn some of the key things you'll want to consider before purchasing your next Desktop PC or Laptop System.

Weight and Size of Laptops
Of course the size and weight is very important when you want a notebook computer. The ultra portables offer light weight and sizes. But you lose items such as optical drives. The desktop replacements have power that is equivalent to desktop systems, but they are quite bulky and heavy too. This makes them difficult to carry around. When purchasing a laptop be sure to check the weight (online it should tell you the poundage) in person just pick it up and see how it feels. Then you will know if this is a system you are willing to carry around.

The Processors (CPU)
The laptop processor still lags behind the desktop, although they make up for the lag with their energy efficiency. You should look at the purpose of the notebook processor to decide which one you will need. A replacement for your desktop PC should be a high end processor which would be rated at least 2.0 GHz or higher.

The Memory
In general laptop computers are more restricted in the amount of memory they can have, in comparison to Desktop PCs. Be sure to check the maximum amount of memory the notebook will handle and how much is already installed. You should also find out it the memory can be upgraded at home or only by a tech.

The Display
For Laptop computers you have to look at the native resolution of the screen as the size. Most people prefer a large screen but some have to large of a resolution and it makes standard fonts very difficult to see. The size of the screen will determine the size of the notebook. The newest systems with 17' screens are large and hard to carry around.

The Drive
The hard drive in laptops is straightforward but you will have to check the optical drive because it is very important. One of the cool things about the new laptops is there ability to turn into a portable DVD player. The DVD-FOM or CD-RW combo drive you can watch DVD movies on your computer or plug into your home theater system! A lot of ultra portable laptops don't include the internal optical drive to save on space. So if it is important to watch movies or videos be sure to choose the right notebook with a good internal optical drive.

The Net
Everyone, these days, of course wants to be able to connect to the Internet so look for a laptop computer which includes a built in 56Kbps modem and Fast Ethernet. If you want the ultimate of portability you should get a notebook with computer an integrated 802.11b wireless adapter.

The Battery Life
Be sure to check the laptop manufacturer’s listed battery life for the standard battery. Some will be only 30 minutes per charge! Try to find one that will last at least two hours for normal conditions. If you need longer than that look for a notebook with media bays, because they double as extra battery slots.

The Warranty
Because of the nature of the laptop, being moved around all the time they are more prone to breaking down. So look for a manufacturer warranty of at least one year. If you will be using the notebook a lot a three year manufacturer warranty may be better for you.

Thanx for reading I hope this helps in your furture purchases
Bonnie Archer

Laptops