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Community Newsletter: Q&A: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice?
- 4/19/07 2:39 PM
Ergo - correction
by Says Who? - 4/16/07 5:49 AM In reply to: Laptop Ergonomics by Says Who?I left the word "keyboard" out of suggestion 2 - I'm brilliant but not quite perfect ;^)
Alan
Very little can be added to this fine answer!
by Cadillac84 - 4/17/07 6:28 AM In reply to: Laptop or Desktop? by waytronVery little can be added . . . but I see that I added a lot. Most of what I added was a detail here and there based on my own experience. I have no argument whatever with the logical presentation by "waytron."
I have bought two Dell laptops in the past three years -- one for myself and one for my sister at her request. Each cost more than $2M.
But, each had somewhat expensive options which I highly recommend and which many purchasers overlook. If they're happy, why should I care? But here's my two cents:
Fast hard drive even at expense of large size. The "hottest ticket" for laptops that I know of is the Hitachi Travelstar which is available on some models in sizes of 60, 80, or 100 GB. When I bought mine, 60 GB was the max, and the laptop model was dictated by availability of that drive only on certain models. They are 7200 rpm drives (rarely found on laptops) and they are stellar performers. I strongly recommend this option because it will help to equalize the laptop performance lag.
Best available video! Pay extra to get 256 MB (or even 512?) video adapter. This dovetails with my next recommendation.
Best available screen! You will pay extra, but mine both have wide ultra XGA (WUXGA) screen with native resolutions of 1920 x 1200. My screens are 15.4 inch diagonal. While 17" diagonal may now be available, that means the laptop will take on gargantuan proportions AND the frame around the screen (which is a weak point!!!) will be narrower so as to hold the overall size down. The point is: GO FOR THE HIGH RES SCREEN. Look to spend an extra $250 bucks which you will NOT regret.
RAM -- Laptop RAM is more expensive than for desktops. Two ways to go here in my opinion. Either get a couple gigs when you buy it or buy it with minimal RAM and plan to replace it all soon. I got 512 MB on one module and added another 512 MB later. I wish I had gotten 256 MB and trashed it and gotten 2 GB from Crucial. Today, you should plan on 2 GB and maybe 4 GB if it will fit. You have only two slots and fewer sources than you would for a desktop.
I did not buy a docking station and sometimes I wish I had. But, with the super high res screen of good size, I am very comfortable using the laptop all the time (my desktop has fallen into disuse).
Processor choices can really cost you. Looking at Dell's choices, for example (because they're easy for folks to find and see the choices), you may have a range of $300 or more including Pentium M, Core Duo T2xx0, T5xx0, T7xx0. It's a hard choice. I did not go all the way up, but I would consider carefully the cache size (1M, 2M, 4M) and bus speed (533, 667). Processor speed is not going to be the stumbling block of your laptop if you select something above the minimum. Today, I'd probably waver between the T5600 and the T7200 and if I really thought I'd just about "broken the bank," I'd settle for the lesser of those two.
I recommend adding Bluetooth for a very small additional price --- more Bluetooth devices are showing up and it's nice to not have to plug in an adapter every time. Bluetooth can be turned off when not in use to conserve battery life.
Wireless options are very cheap. I chose dual-band (802.11a/b/g) and today one can get 802.11a/b/g/n for little extra. But, keep in mind that the choice will be important only at home. On the road, the increasingly ubiquitous "Wi-Fi Spots" are going to be 802.11g. If you can add 802.11n for $25, you may want to do it or you may prefer a couple pizza pies for the same money. Remember that 802.11n is only a "draft proposal" even though it is pretty well established by now and should be ratified soon.
One after the fact purchase I made was a USB powered hub by IOGEAR. It supplies power and therefore I am not restricted as one of the respondents suggested. All my USB "stuff" remains hooked to the IOGEAR hub and I hook just one USB to the laptop.
If you plan to buy a $700 laptop, you'll have fun with it but you won't want to quit using your desktop PC. If you select options carefully, you can have a laptop that will satisfy most all your needs and enjoy it for years. Every few months, I get an email from my sister thanking me for "making her" spend the extra money for her laptop. When she broke her leg and had to stay in bed for a few weeks, it was a real boon.
Going to a laptop
by Kzac Hawk - 4/10/07 4:00 AM In reply to: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
David,
We made this decision a couple of years ago and it works great. Just remember you will not be able to upgrade the laptop so get one now that runs Vista premimum. The only additions you may want to consider are a network print server (assuming you have a home network) and a network storage drive (if you tend to have lots of large files to store. You will like having the laptop for ease of use and reduction of space. Remember to keep a battery regemend of discharging and charging the battery monthly or it will not last 2 years. And finally I would suggest getting a good laptop not an off brand (IBM, HP, Compaq, Toshiba, though book) I have had lots of success with these laptops and the companies provide excellent support. I am currently using Compaq but I prefer the IBMs because they are made like a tank.
Kzac Hawk
Going to a laptop
by JhayAR - 4/14/07 1:43 PM In reply to: Going to a laptop by Kzac HawkLets face the fact, every minute there are new technology which are invened.
Slowly the desktop computer will be face out just like the VHS and later on the laptop computer too and so on. The best thing we can do as what I did, I switch from desktop into laptop and now I want to switch again from ordiary laptop into DUAL CORE PROCESSOR laptop. Which i think is more faster then my old one.
In short mans knowledge is boundles and I assure you that in the near future all these will be obselete and will be replaced by a better one
Vhic
Name Brands
by Finklefarb - 4/15/07 2:45 AM In reply to: Going to a laptop by Kzac HawkYou did not mention Dell as a name brand when suggesting not purchasing off brands. I just retired from a giant Aerospace Co that has over 180,000 networked PC's. All are Dell and they are excellent.
Dell Lattitudes are the commercial Laptops the Inspirons are for the consumer, very small company or economy buyer. Lattitudes meet a higher spec and use quality parts with a metal chasis. This company I just retired from has converted almost 1/2 of it's PC's to laptops and they have very good success with them. Our technology dept. evaluates every brand name out there. I will not comment except to say that they did not purchase, Toshiba or HP in volume. I understand that Sony is nice but according to a salesman in CompUSA delicate little flowers.
advice for answers to David B.
by kyahnke - 4/10/07 8:36 AM In reply to: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
If it were me I would make sure my laptop had some good security software on it. I would also make sure that things were backed up on a daily basis.
I would also be afraid of leaving it somewhere and then I wouldn't have anything to use at home.
As for convenience and space it sounds like a great idea to me. I wish I could sit in bed sometimes and use the computer, but I only have a desk top.
Make sure all of the extra tools to hook up to it, will work on your laptop too.
Good luck on your decision to change.
Notebook to replace desktop
by brucerobb - 4/10/07 11:08 AM In reply to: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Your best bet is to find a notebook for which the manufacturer already has a docking station (aka port replicator). This has the advantage of providing power as well as all the various ports you need for USB, video, etc. Most generic units that I've seen connect to a machine with only a USB2 cable, which really isn't enough for a monitor as well as everything else; in fact, they generally don't provide a monitor connection.
Actually, Geek.com ( www.geek.com ) says that some docking stations allow you to plug in PCI cards & extra drives, as well as what you would normally plug in on the replicator.
The major advantage to a replicator or docking station, as I see it, is that it allows you to quickly connect & remove the notebook to & from all the connections to your external devices, all at once, by pressing a latch on the dock to release the notebook. It also is less likely that you will be bending pins on those external device connectors. You do have to exercise some caution when connecting the unit to the dock, to avoid damage to the connection port and to the flat screen display, but once you're used to it, it's quite easy.
Bruce R.
P. S. One thing to note if you do go the docking route. You can adjust your display settings for the computer to stay on when the lid is closed, so that you have more desk space. Alternatively, you can set up your machine so as to provide a dual display if you have room for it. You can find notebook stands that will raise the display so that it will be right beside your dock's monitor.
Making the switch
by pwhite777 - 4/13/07 4:52 PM In reply to: Notebook to replace desktop by brucerobbI added a laptop to augment my desktop several years ago. I could take my class notes etc. on my laptop plug it into the projector in the class. It made things much easier.
Recently I switched to a MacBook Pro. A real switch certainly! I have come to prefer the Mac over a Windows PC. Even though almost all the classes I taught were based on Win XP. I became very tired of the constant secuirty updates, frequent crashes no matter how clean I tried to keep the system and the irritation of viruses, worms, hackers and the rest. I simply find the Mac to be a superior system all around. I only use my desktop when I am forced to by programs not available on the Mac. This was a frequent problem at first but as time goes by there are fewer times I have to revert to the desktop.
The MacBook pro does everything a PC desktop will do at least for my needs. Also when Panther comes out it will cost approx. $125 or so whereas Vista is in the hundreds of dollars and requires hardware updates in most cases.
Will it last as long as a desktop? Probably not due to heat and other considerations. The convenience and power of the Mac is worth it. When my current desktop dies I will replace it with a Mac or just buy a monitor and keyboard for my MacBook Pro.
Re: hellow advice only a I.T. person in the philippines
by fansay - 4/10/07 2:14 PM In reply to: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
If your desktop pc is beyond pentium 1 to 3 (speed level). replace it because some program require more processing power but depending what use of application. and it weak on attack of pc virus and etc. but if your desktop pc is beyond pentium 4 (note:1 gig processing speed) to dual core or core dual, it ok
note:
some pc lifetime range to replace. because usage pc like "a wire bend so many times it loss it duribility and soften".
note in pentium 4 (1 gig processing speed)
it can match up on the quality of new processor today but all most the same. if going to use it on office usage only but on server office connection usage it can be little bit problem about that but it can manage it.
Laptop use respnce
by carol914 - 4/11/07 8:59 AM In reply to: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Hey I have been using my laptop exculsively for about 5 years. My husband and I travel between CA and WA regualry for his business and I keep all our records for finances, billpaying, and love to do digital photography plus several volunteer activities. So I have printers and a scanner in both places and with a lot of the other stuff being small, I carry it in my backpack. The biggest pain for me is being sure all is backed up and the taking it on the airplane..you have to take it out of your bag every time..better than before however, when they made you power it up. Ive thought it would be cool to have all the data on the web and just connect to it wherever I am, but I think thats a future dream. Carol
desktop to laptop
by mr_sms - 4/11/07 1:10 PM In reply to: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Dave- I'd consider battery life at all times...
things you might want with a laptop as primary workstation
by lfunston - 4/11/07 5:29 PM In reply to: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
If you are accustomed to typing on a full size keyboard, I would highly recomend getting a standard size keyboard to plug in (you can get a basic MS keyboard very cheap). My typing is not the best to start out with, but when I tried to do in on the condensed laptop keyboard, I found it very frustating, as well as putting me in a bad ergonomic position trying to scrunch over the little board.
Take these in consideration
by C3 - 4/12/07 2:06 AM In reply to: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Dear David;
Exchange;
.speakers with {Creative/Sony headphones}
.external hard disk with {very large built-in one in the laptop}
.make sure that the laptop has today's & future essentials; like {bluetooth, WLAN, Modem, Cam, usb, firewire, card-readers, usb lablink cable, to connect with other devices, extra battery, usb keyboard-light {for the dark, quite & cool hours}}
---don't put yourself in a dillemma about a printer & scanner, replace the scanner with a good enough high-resolution cam.
---wait some time untill a portable printer is in the market.
***Get a suitable carrying-bag.
Potential winning answers.
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 4/13/07 11:09 AM
In reply to: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Here are the selected submissions grouped in one post. Read through them and place your votes in the newsletter poll.
Answer:
Laptop or Desktop?
Each year I see an increasing number of computer users are trading their Desktop computers for Laptop/notebook computers. The shift from Desktop PC’s to Laptops has been sparked primarily by lower priced laptops as well as the convenience of Wireless networks, which are everywhere. I think that as people use their computers more and increase the number of hours that they spend in font of the computer screen, they find the attraction of being able to move their computer around the house or outside almost irresistible. I have to say that I now use my laptop computer about 80% of the time. However, I still use a desktop for things like Video editing, gaming or applications where I need the power or storage capacity of a desktop or the convenience of my dual screen setup.
Even though it may seem like there is no real big difference between a laptop and a Desktop, there are some very distinct pros and cons that you should be aware of. Keep in mind that if your needs are minimal, than some of these differences may not be of any real concern to you.
LAPTOP PROS
1. Portability – No Contest in this area. If you have a need for mobility, than a laptop is the only way to go. Take it to work, on vacation or to the local coffee shop.
2. Uses Less Space – Many users find that the reduced amount of space that a laptop takes up on the desk is well worth the switch.
3. Uses less electricity – A laptop will generally consume less electricity, especially if you happen to be replacing an older desktop that has a traditional CRT monitor.
LAPTOP CONS
1. More Expensive than Desktop – It may be a little difficult to compare the two but to purchase a laptop with the same power and features as a desktop would cost about twice as much.
2. Not as Powerfull as a desktop – In general, laptops do not have the same capabilities as the larger desktops. For example: The maximum hard drive available today for a laptop is about 160 gig as compared to about 500gig for a desktop. They tend to use slower, more energy saving processors and components. This may be more of an issue for heavy computer users and gamers.
3. Life Expectancy – Laptops do not tend to last as long as desktop computers. This could be due to extra bumping, dropping and overheating that normally goes hand in hand with portability. But also, laptops can not be upgraded to the extent that desktop computers can, so they will typically be replaced more often just to keep up with technology changes.
4. More expensive to repair – When something does go wrong, laptop repairs can cost 2, 3 or even 4 times more than desktop computers. In many cases, if your laptop is out of warranty, it may not even be worth getting it repaired. To give you a few examples: I had to order a new DVD drive for a HP laptop a few weeks ago. The replacement cost for the drive was $239. This same type of drive for a desktop would run about $60. A Standard replacement keyboard for a Dell laptop cost me about $80 and about ˝ hour to install and test. You can pick up a standard keyboard for a desktop for about $20 and install it yourself. I had to replace the screen on a Sony TR3 last year, Sony charge me $700. If this were a desktop, I could have purchased a new monitor for about $200 and had use of the computer in about 1 hour rather than the 3 weeks it took to send it back to Sony.
5. Limited Upgrades – Laptops are fairly limited as to what can be upgraded. Yes you can add some extra memory or maybe a new hard drive, but you can forget about upgrading the video card, processor or motherboard. Also upgrades tend to cost more than desktops.
6. Down Time – If your laptop needs repair, you may be without a computer for several weeks. Laptops are typically built with many custom or proprietary parts. When something goes wrong, the parts usually need to be ordered or the computer may even need to be sent back to the manufacturer for service, leaving you without a computer for several weeks. This is less likely with a desktop computer.
7. Recycled Parts – The overall value of purchasing a desktop computer is often extended by reusing some of the parts. This is especially true of the monitor. It is very common for people to reuse the monitor or move it to other computers in the house. Nothing much can be reused on a laptop.
PURCHASING A LAPTOP
1. If you decide to go with a laptop, I can not stress enough the importance of picking out a unit that you are comfortable with as well as one that meets your technical needs. You should ask yourself questions such as: Do I like the screen? Am I comfortable with the keyboard? How about the USB ports? Are they in the right places? Unlike a Desktop computer, where if you don’t like the screen, mouse or keyboard, you can easily swap it out for another, you are stuck with what you get with a laptop. Short of purchasing and hooking up an external monitor, if you don’t like the size of the screen or maybe the high-gloss reflective coating that comes on most laptops now, there is not much you can do.
2. Purchase all the accessories that you need or want with the computer instead of waiting to go back later to get them. Laptops models change so fast that the accessory you want may not be available later. It is also often more expensive to purchase add-on items at a later date. So if you really think that you need extra long battery life, order that extended life, 9-cell battery with your computer.
3. Always insist on Recovery/Installation CD’s with your computer. Don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t need them. Believe me when I tell you that 3 years down the road when your hard drive fails and the backup CD’s you created on day one have oxidized and no longer work, you will need those CD’s. If you did not receive any with your computer, you can usually order them for about $10.
4. Windows Vista or XP – Unfortunately, this is probably not the best time to be purchasing a new computer because Windows Vista is so New and full of problems and you kind of hate to purchase the older XP. If you plan to purchase all new Vista Compatible hardware and software than not a problem, go with Vista. But if you need to integrate some older software and some existing hardware such as an all-in-one printer, you may want to consider ordering your new computer with Windows XP, or holding off until Vista has time to mature. If you are not in a rush, I would suggest waiting 6 months.
PLANNING THE SWITCH
You need to plan your migration to any new computer regardless of the type of computer or operating system you plan to purchase. NOTE: I personally do not recommend using any of the migration software packages that are available that claim to move everything from your old computer to your new one.
1. Inventory Current Software and Hardware – You will want to make a list of all the hardware and software that you currently use. Write down every program that you use and include any new items that you might like to have. Pull together all the original installation CD’s and License numbers to make sure you are not missing anything. If you will be throwing out your old computer, you may be able to reuse some of the software, but that will depend on the software and licenses.
2. Compatibility Issues - If you are moving to a new Operating system, you will need to check each item in your inventory list for compatibility with the new system. You can find this information online and may need to download new drivers or versions or even have to purchase some new software. For Vista, you could download and run the Vista Compatibility Wizard on your old computer just to get some ideas, but don’t rely 100% on the wizard results, I have found that it misses many problems, but it is a good starting point.
3. Personal Data – Go through your Inventory List from above and make a notation as to what data you want to save as well as its location. If you do not know exactly where the data is stored, that is ok for now, but just note that there is data from that program, so you don’t forget. Your list may look something like this:
Word 2003 OK with WinXP C:\Documents and Settings\User\My Documents
Excel 2003 OK with WinXP C:\Documents and Settings\User\My Documents
PowerPoint OK with WinXP C:\Documents and Settings\User\My Documents
Favorites OK with WinXP C:\Documents and Settings\User\Favorites
Outlook OK with WinXP C:\Doc…\User\Local Settings\Application Data\...
Quicken OK with WinXP C:\Doc…\User\My Documents\Quicken\...
iTunes OK with WinXP C:\Doc…\User\My Documents\My Music\itunes
Turbo Tax OK with WinXP Not sure
4. How to Move Data – There are several ways to move your data from your old computer to a new one. You can do it all manually or with some assistance. I have found that the Windows Files and Settings Transfer Wizard does a nice job for when you are moving from Win98, ME, 2000 or XP to a new XP computer. Windows Vista also has a similar tool. You can use any of the following methods to transfer data regardless of which way you are planning to move the data.
a. Network Connection – If you have a home network and you are familiar with setting up file sharing, you can transfer your data over the network.
b. CD/DVD – If your old computer has a CD or DVD burner, you could burn all of your data to that.
c. USB Network Cable – Belkin and other companies make a USB data transfer cable that allows you to transfer files from one computer to another.
d. USB Hard Drive – Transfer your data to the USB Drive and then to your new computer.
e. Flash Drive – A flash/thumb drive will work as long as you don’t have enormous amounts of data.
f. Install Old Drive into USB Enclosure - For about $29 you can pick up a USB enclosure that will turn your old drive into a USB drive allowing you to read it from any other computer.
Regardless of which method you decide to use, I would take this opportunity to go through your files and clean out some of the junk that has been collecting before moving your data over to your new computer.
OTHER EXTRAS and ACCESSORIES
Even though you can purchase a laptop for under $700 these days, the extras can almost double that price. Software, Security Suites, Docks and extended warrantees can really add up. Here is a list of items that you may want to consider:
1. Office Suite – Most everyone needs at least a word processor and in many cases Excel and PowerPoint. Depending on your needs you can expect to spend between $149 and $500 for an Office Suite. Don’t forget to check out Student/Teacher versions which if you qualify can save you several hundred dollars. If you are not picky, there are some great alternative to Microsoft Office such as Corel’s office Suite which included Word Perfect or even FREE versions such as Open Office.
2. Security Software – You will need some form of Security Software. You will probably receive a free trial of Norton or McAfee that you will have to pay for in a month or so to continue coverage. Depending on your Internet Service provider, they may offer some free software.
3. Laptop Case – If you are going to be traveling with your laptop, you will need a sturdy carrying case. Try to find something that has some protective cushioning to protect the laptop in the event that you drop it.
4. Docking Station – Some laptop models have a connector on the bottom or back that is designed to plug into a specific docking station. If you plan to use your laptop as a replacement for a desktop, you may want to take advantage of this feature and have a full size monitor, Speakers, keyboard and mouse attached to the dock. You can usually accomplish this same effect without a dock, but you will plugging and unplugging all kinds of cables each time you want to take your laptop with you. With the dock, you simply push one button and away you go. NOTE: Don’t confuse a port replicator, which some companies call a universal Dock, with an actual docking station.
5. Keyboard and Mouse – Many users prefer using a regular size keyboard and mouse or at least prefer to use a mouse rather than the touch pad. You can easily install either of these in a wired or wireless version.
6. Laptop Lock – If you will be traveling a lot or using your computer in locations that are less than desirable, then you may want to consider an laptop lock or alarm.
7. Power Supply- Depending on your needs, you may want to consider purchasing a second power supply or maybe even a car cord to be able to plug your laptop into a standard cigarette lighter. Having an extra power cord makes it just that much easier to pick up and run with your laptop.
8. Laptop Cooling Pad – Other than dropping your laptop, a common killer of laptops is overheating. For about $29, you can purchase a cooling pad that goes under your laptop when it is being used at your desk. This is especially useful if you typically leave your computer on all the time.
9. Extra Battery or Extended Life Battery – If you spend a lot of time on the road and battery life is major concern to you, some models offer the ability to add a second battery or to replace the original battery with a longer life version. For example, when you order a Dell Laptop you have a choice between a 6-cell standard battery or the 9-cell longer life battery.
10. Wireless Options – Many more options are starting to surface for Wireless connectivity. Besides Standard WiFi and Bluetooth, one major option that you should be aware of is the built-in Cell phone data cards. More and more models are offering data cards for connecting to the internet through the cell phone network. These plans tend to run about $59.99 per month but if you travel a lot and need constant connectivity without having to go searching for the nearest WiFi hotspot, this is a great way to go. You can purchase the cards that plug into the external PCMCIA slot on virtually any laptop or get the built-in version on select models only. I have seen them available on some Sony and Dell models. Dell lets you choose between either Verizon or Cingular (at the time of order) and I think Sony only offers the Cingular service.
11. Warrantees – All laptops come with some form of factory warrantee and all suppliers would love to sell you one of their extended plans. Personally I do not normally recommend purchasing any additional warrantees on a laptop priced less than $1000. But that may be just me. Keep in mind that once a laptop is out of warrantee the minimum repair cost can easily be $200 and more. If you do decide to purchase an extended warrantee, make sure you totally understand exactly what it is you are getting. What is covered? Who will fix it? Will it have to be sent out? How long will I be without my computer? Does it cover accidental damage? What is covered under the normal warrantee?
Good Luck with whatever you decide.
Dana
Wayland Computer
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-10149_102-0.html?forumID=7&threadID=241759&messageID=2455150#2455150
Submitted by: waytron
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Answer:
David B .... moving from desktop to laptop
David,
Really, you don't need a whole lot. Not that many laptops offer a true "docking station" these days, unless you get a high-end business model. Since almost everything has gone to USB, what used to be a "docking station" with a true "[PCI] bus interface" to the motherboard chipset has pretty much given way to so-called "docking stations" that are mostly USB hubs, although some of them do have the "legacy ports" that are no longer present in laptops. This includes PS/2 mouse and keyboard ports, serial and parallel ports, although the manner in which these are implemented (especially serial and parallel ports) is such that they won't work with all software and devices that might use them.
Another concern here is that some devices --- and I mean USB devices --- won't work with USB ports on USB hubs; they require connection directly to a "root hub" on the motherboard or directly on a PCI expansion bus. I know that many USB printers (especially HP) fall into this category, but so do some other devices. Also, while they may work on a hub, things like external hard drives that are really bandwidth sensitive may be seriously degraded operating through an external hub rather than being connected directly to a motherboard USB port. The problem is that many laptops only have 2 or 3 motherboard USB ports, and if you have devices that don't like connections via a USB hub, you can run out of motherboard USB ports rather quickly.
Beyond that, the matter of whether or not a laptop will meet your needs depends on what you needs are, and your preferences. Most desktops today have 19" screens with 1280x1024 resolution (sometimes higher, sometimes "widescreen"), while most laptops are now 14" to 17" "widescreen" models with lower resolutions. So the screen and the keyboard are really two very major considerations for anyone moving from a desktop to a laptop as their primary (non-traveling) computer. Two other major concerns are the video system and the hard drive. Laptop video systems are never, not even close to the equal of what you CAN get (for a lot of money) in a desktop, but they are entirely adequate for most non-gaming and non-CAD applications. And laptop hard drives are both smaller and slower (a lot smaller and a lot smaller) than desktop hard drives. For example, a 160GB 5400rpm laptop hard drive is a "high end" laptop drive, but on a desktop there are 500GB 7200 rpm drives available that will cost less than that laptop drive (and their seek speed and performance is a lot faster as well). So if size and speed (or the ability to have more than a single internal drive) matter, it's a strike against moving to a laptop as your only computer. But, again, the products available on laptops are still entirely adequate for most users.
If these limitations are not in conflict with your needs, then a laptop may well suit all of your needs. As far as what accessories to get, you will need a good case for the laptop and the travel accessories. I'd also get a 2nd AC power supply for the laptop, and an "auto/air" power supply for use in a car and/or airplane. I'd get a wireless optical mouse made for laptops, one that stores it's "receiver" in the mouse itself (logitech and Microsoft both make them). I'd also get a pair of Ethernet cables (straight through and "crossover"), and a travel USB hub with a power supply (get one that has a switching power supply so that it's small and lightweight while still supplying at least 2 amps). If the laptop doesn't have a flash memory card reader, a USB reader that will read all formats is small and inexpensive. And that probably covers most of the things that you will need.
If you are going to be traveling with the laptop, give some thought to data loss and security, which are more important considerations than on a fixed desktop. You need to be FAR more aggressive about backups when you have only one computer, a laptop, that you travel with. Consider that if it's lost, stolen or damaged you don't have a computer to fall back on. And consider the consequences if it's stolen ... you will probably have credit card numbers, passwords, userIDs, social security numbers, date of birth, tax returns and other personal data on the laptop. From an identity theft perspective, the risk in case of loss is substantial. Also, laptop drives (both hard drives and optical drives) are not as reliable as their desktop counterparts. Two things to consider in this regard are an extended warranty (in particular one that includes accidental damage coverage) and an insurance policy that explicitly covers the laptop (your homeowners policy might do this, perhaps with a low-cost rider, but check with your insurance agent).
[Personally, although it's more expensive, I still like having a desktop "primary" computer and a laptop as well, as a 2nd computer, for traveling.]
Hope that this helps,
Regards,
Barry Watzman
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-10149_102-0.html?forumID=7&threadID=241759&messageID=2452196#2452196
Submitted by: Watzman
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Answer:
Some things to consider before making the switch
David,
You might want to think of a few things before actually making the switch. First and foremost, are there things like video editing, gaming, or other high-capacity functions that you want to do on a desktop that you might not be able to do on a laptop? If so, you might want to hold off on the switch, switch to a higher-end laptop, or keep the desktop around. Second, do you want to modify things like the graphics card, hard drive, processor, etc? A notebook is typically less modifiable, so you may want to invest in a better laptop or keep the desktop around.
It sounds like you have a lot of the accessories you need at hand already. One nice thing about a docking station is that it can turn your notebook into an instant desktop: you plug your printer, external hard drive, modem, speakers, printer, etc., into the dock. Instead of plugging every single USB port and line out cable into your notebook, you just drop it into the dock and you have your desktop computer. Unplug it and you're ready to go. I would recommend buying a docking station if you want the functionality of a desktop and the portability of a laptop. Some docking stations even have extra fans to keep our processor cool!
As for other accessories, here are a few things that might get you started. First off, if you want true portability, that means wifi. If you only have a wired modem at home now, you might want to get a wireless router so you can access the internet in most places in your home and at hotspots on the road. You may also want to secure your internet connection by password-protecting your router (especially if you live in an apartment or crowded neighborhood) and by using security software, either free (you might have to piece a few different programs together like ZoneAlarm internet security, AVG anti-virus, and AdAware) or paid (Norton and other companies have full security suites). Some of Cnet's online classes can help in a more comprehensive manner than I can here.
If you want portability, you may want to consider a few things that will make taking your laptop with you a more pleasant experience. A case, spare wall, auto, or airplane power supply, and spare battery can all come in handy. In selecting your notebook, you should estimate your needs and go a bit above them, since you can't do much to modify a notebook, save for adding some RAM. Figure out how many ins and outs you need and what types. And if your computer doesn't have them (like, say a firewire port), make sure your docking station does. The good news is that you already have a lot of what you need, and to get the rest of it, many local stores, online sites, and direct retailers like Dell or Gateway have package discounts where you can get your accessories at a discount and even get some financing options.
So do some homework on what your wants and needs are, and you should be ready to make the switch!
Jeremy
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-10149_102-0.html?forumID=7&threadID=241759&messageID=2452560#2452560
Submitted by: jskrenes
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I've tried it and it didn't work as well as I'd hoped
I tried going this route myself but found that it wasn't at all what I had envisioned. By time I packed up my laptop carrying case with a few essentials, it wasn't feeling as portable anymore. Also, even though it was a pretty high end laptop (I spent about 2400.00 US on it) it always fely a little slow compared to my home PC.
I guess the biggest consideration here is what type of user you are. If you are a heavy user, there will be significant drawbacks to doing this. However, for light users, running everything from a laptop can work just fine. Here are the tradeoffs:
1. A laptop that spends most of the time plugged in at home will have a very poor battery life when you do need it on the road. Although lithium ion and lithium polymer batteries have improved, they still don't deal with this pattern of prolonged charging very well without some regular cycling.
2. Laptops run much hotter than desktop computers. The reason for this is obvious, you have a lot of electronics crammed into a small confined space and have poor ventilation compared to desktops. When you consider that heat is the biggest contributor to hard drive failures, this alone may have you thinking twice.
3. If you plan on doing video editing, playing high end games, or working with large files, a laptop is not a great solution. It's not that you can't do these things on a laptop, it's just that you'll spend 5 times as much buying a laptop capable of matching a desktops performance in these areas. Then again, if you mostly just check your email and surf the web, this may not be an issue for you.
4. Keep in mind that laptops tend to eventually get dropped, damaged, lost or stolen. For this reason, backing up your data frequently is a must. You'll also have to ask yourself if you can live without a computer for a few weeks while it's being repaired or replaced.
Bottom line:
Laptop Pros = small and portable, cool looking, even the slowest laptop on the road is faster than the desktop computer that got left at home.
Laptop Cons = less powerfull / less bang for your buck, less reliable due to thermal breakdown, hard to expand or modify hardware, smaller screen size, parts can be expensive
My advice? If you can afford to have both, build a powerfull desktop for at home and buy a less expensive laptop for the times that require portability. Loading the laptop with only the softwares that you need on the road will keep it running fast and easier to back up.
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-10149_102-0.html?forumID=7&threadID=241759&messageID=2453263#2453263
Submitted by: Screaminlizard
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Be forewarned...
While it sounds like a good idea, and it may be in many cases (the mobility is really nice), the transition to a laptop can cause you some grief.
Since many of the peripherals you speak of aren't wireless or networked, you will want a dock so that you can easily "plug in" when you return your laptop to your office desktop. An alternative would be to invest in networked peripherals (printers, scanners, hard disks, etc. all come in network ready versions) and thus make it even easier to move around yet still be connected to everything. In such a case, you really don't need a docking station, just a place to plugin and recharge your batteries.
Still, with all this new cool mobility whether using networked devices or a dock, there is a downside that isn't obvious. It is my experience that because of the way laptops are designed and manufactured, your ability to expand them are greatly limited. In particular, video and audio components are fixed in the laptop and the drivers "must" come from the laptop manufacturer as opposed to the audio or video chip manufacturer. This is primarily due to the way the audio and video chips are "installed" and supported in the laptops.
This doesn't seem like a problem and in many cases, isn't. However, if you have plans to play games and other video/audio intensive applications, you must beware that many times, these software packages/gamms require newer software (updates to DirectX) or newer video/audio processors. Frequently, these packages and their requisite upgrades/updates require new drivers for your existing video & audio components. Most of the PC laptop manufacturers stop releasing drivers for these components after a couple of years - just when you will need them most.
If the new game you want requires a faster or "memory-full" graphics processor, you won't be able to play it without upgrading your entire laptop to a new model.
Another issue comes with minor repair functions. Most laptops are a single "replaceable unit". This is manufacturer-speak for if there is some problem with the laptop, you usually have to send the whole thing back for repairs. In some cases, you can add/replace memory without a full return.
In others, you might be able to replace the hard drive. But in many cases, you just have to ship the whole thing back. Some of these are for silly things such as replacing a keycap on your keyboard. Most of the manufacturers will not send you a single keycap or a scissor hinge. You will be forced to find one yourself on the open market or scrounge one off some old, discarded laptop found for scrap - sort of the high tech version of going to the junk yard for hard to find car parts.
In the case of most desktop computers, you usually have the option to replace components, insert new or upgrade cards, replace/add memory, attach a new/different keyboard, and adapt to new peripherals and interconnects as they are introduced. The laptop just isn't that flexible.
In my home, I have both desktops and laptops. We get the freedom of mobility yet don't have to sacrifice for those applications and services that need the flexibility that a desktop computer provides.
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-10149_102-0.html?forumID=7&threadID=241759&messageID=2452457#2452457
Submitted by: b_in_austin
From Desktop to Laptop
by AlbyW - 4/13/07 6:14 AM In reply to: Considering a move to a laptop full time, any advice? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Well David here is my 2 cents. I have all my financial information, banking, investments, etc. on my desktop and I have a laptop for miscellaneous stuff; calendar, data, travel software, etc. I would never think of combining the two computers. This way my financial information stays safe at home and if my laptop is stolen, as was my daughters, I won't need to worry about stolen identify.
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