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Screen
This is your primary feedback from the computer. Larger
screens are easier to read, and higher resolution screens
give you more places to put your multiple windows.
There are two main types of laptop screens available now:
Dual Scan (DSTN) and Active Matrix (TFT). Both are based on
backlit LCD shutters. The difference is that TFT screens
update faster and can be viewed from wider angles. Objects
moving rapidly on DSTN screens tend to blur because of the
slow response time of the screen. There have been
improvements to the DSTN technology to increase screen
response time. These improved DSTN screens are usually
called something like "Fast Scan" or "High Performance
Addressing" screens. They fall between regular DSTN and TFT
screens in both price and performance.
Video Card
Most laptops can drive their own display adequately, but
they frequently don’t look very good on external monitors.
It’s a good idea to look for one that will drive an external
monitor at the resolutions listed on the recommendation
chart. A video card with 3D application support would be a
good buy.
Keyboard
This, like case and pointing device, is a matter of personal
preference. Most people prefer a keyboard with around 19mm
key spacing. Most laptop keyboard keys do not depress as far
as a typical desktop keyboard. Look for one that has at
least 3/4 throw. If possible, try out any proposed purchase
first, or at least a very similar setup.
Sound Card
If the laptop you like does not come with built-in sound,
you can get PC cards that will provide this function.
However, the speakers will not be built-in and can be
unwieldy.
Speakers
Built-in stereo speakers are convenient, but for
presentations or music enjoyment, external speakers will
probably have to be purchased. For external speaker
recommendations, see the desktop section.
Pointing Device
Also known as mouse. This, like case and keyboard, are a
matter of personal preference. If possible, try out any
proposed purchase first, or at least a very similar setup.
Operating System
Windows Me will give you the most options when purchasing
application software. It is much easier to set up and
maintain than previous versions of MS Windows.
PC Card Slots
Also called PCMCIA. These are your laptop’s expansion slots.
Modems, sound cards, Ethernet cards, and other add-ons can
go here. More is better.
Ethernet Card
If you connect through an Ethernet port, this is a must have
item.
Modem
This provides network connectivity over the phone. 53/33.6
thousand bits per second (v.90 download/upload) is the
fastest currently available speed.
Many modem alternatives are emerging. These include ISDN,
xDSL, and cable modems. These new technologies are all
faster and generally more expensive than a traditional
modem. You can contact your local phone company or cable
provider to see if they are offered in your area.
Battery
The battery is what your laptop runs on when it's not
plugged in. Look for battery life of 2 hours or more. An
option to put in a second battery in place of the diskette
or CD drive is a plus for long trips. There are several
types of batteries to choose from:
Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) are cheap and can last many years, but
NiCds have "memory" and thus require regular discharging to
remain viable. If not discharged and charged every 30 days
or so, the battery will permanently lose some capacity. If
NiCds are well cared for, they can have life spans of 2000
cycles or more.
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) can hold about 30% more charge
than NiCds, and are less affected by memory problems. NiMHs
have shorter life spans than well cared for NiCds. (Approx.
500 cycles)
Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) batteries have some of the best
characteristics of NiCd and NiMH batteries. They also have
nearly twice the capacity of a NiCd. They do not suffer from
memory problems. They are also rated at around 500 cycles.
Warranty
One year is standard, though many newer laptops are coming
with three year warranties. More is better.
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