Portable Computer Basics

A portable computer, also know as a notebook, is something very similar and yet very different from the average desk top computer. There are some very unique things about a portable computer that gives it both advantages and disadvantages over more traditional computers. Looking at the basic setup of a portable computer gives the first overall impression of differences between it and other computers. It has an all in once design, with mouse, keyboard, monitor, and tower all built into one small device that can either be battery powered or plugged in. The monitor flips up into its position and can be closed to shut the computer off. The mouse is usually a touchpad or joystick control located either on or close to the keyboard. The keyboard itself is different from a standard keyboard as it does not have a number pad to the side, but the keys can be assigned for this by using the alternate function key that most models use now. The keyboard itself is a bit smaller than the average keyboard and can take some getting used to when typing. Upgrading and repair of a portable computer is different from the average desk top as well. Most portable computers can only be upgraded by the use of cards that slide into available slots on the sides or back of the notebook. These upgrades can be anything from more memory to a new modem, to a wireless adapter. Other upgrades such as replacing memory or sound cards are a bit more difficult, and often the parts and repairs both have to come from the manufacture of the computer. With all of these differences, the portable can act remarkably the same as a desk top. Even though smaller in size, the portable computer can house as much if not more processing power, memory, and hard drive space as the average desktop. Adding on a true mouse and keyboard can provide ease of use, and even another monitor can be attached to use the portable as a desktop model. Ability to transfer the computer from one location to another gives ease of access to network and internet connections. With the diversity and function of a portable computer, there are many companies that are changing to these to be used by their employees in the feels to allow them access to computer related tasks at any time, rather than having to come to a central office to do this. Things such as wireless internet adapters, and modems that can be connected to a cell phone allow these portable computers to have the same function in the field as a computer sitting on a desk can have. Portable computers, while never replacing the desktop computer, have come a long way from a few years back. Gone are the days of the 20 pound portable computer that was only a word processor. Now they are constantly improving to become thinner, lighter, and more powerful.

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