Laptops are a definite need than a luxury, in todays’ fast paced world. Having a portable PC that helps to take work along with, to all the places that one goes, has actually become a necessity. They not only are useful in carrying data but also help us keep connected to the office even when we are away from office.

There are many characteristics to be considered while purchasing a laptop. The processors or the CPU are one of the main components of a computer. The CPU contains the ALU that is the Arithmetic and Logic Unit and the Control Unit. Many companies have come out with processors that are different to each other in terms of their speed and capacity. The standard is usually 1.4 to 1.6 GHz, though 3.0GHz has been launched as well. The processor power and the battery consumption are interrelated and so it is important to have an eye on the battery consumption, when choosing the processor.

The hard drive is the next component, which is of importance. This is used to store the data files and programs in the computer. The capacity of a hard drive could be from as low as 20GB to 40GB, 60GB and even up to 120GB. The size that it needs depends upon the amount of data that is to be stored inside.

RAM is the component where the running applications and data is stored. It stands for Random Access Memory. The basic types contain 256MB of RAM space, while even 512MB or 1024MB is also available. If music downloads, video downloads etc are to be done in the laptop, then the RAM capacity should be more.

The laptop sizes are also to be considered. The screen used is LCD screens and this could be from 12″ to 14″ or even 15″. The resolution is also to be considered. This could be 1024 x 768 for a standard screen, and can also increase, depending upon the type of screen used. TFT LCDs are also available nowadays, which are expensive than normal LCDs but give better displaying options. Also screens are on wide screen type that makes it easily viewable from any angle.

Graphic card are inserted into them to give laptops better display capacities. If lots of presentations and slide shows etc have to be stored, then it is better to go for a video graphic card with 32MB or even 64MB. They should also contain USB ports, which help to transfer data from another USB device or vice versa. Firewire connections are also available nowadays, that help to transfer data from MP3 players, camcorders etc.

Optical drives for CD/DVD playing is also necessary. The battery capacity is also to be checked. Mostly Lithium Ion batteries are used. They have a back up time from 2 hours to 5 years. The recharging time also differs in different makes, with 75 minutes being the most common. Touch sensitive mouse pads are available to replace mouse. This has to be checked before purchasing, to see if it is comfortable to be used or not.

The wireless LAN facilities, Ethernet etc should also be available. The final and very important thing is the warranty that should be checked while buying the laptop; the more the warranty period, the better the quality.

Laptops are a boon from the technology world to us. Using it wisely and more importantly purchasing it wisely is what is required, to own a long lasting and efficient laptop that gives the best performance that one expects from it.

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