Taking A Quick Look Taking At The World Netbooks
The first netbooks were introduced in 2007. They were marketed to be used as a supplement to people’s other computers. A net book is part of the subnotebook family; they are smaller than laptops and larger than hand held computers. Screen size is generally in the 8-10 inch range and keyboards are approximately 89-93% the size of a full size keyboard. It will usually weigh less than a laptop and will also tend to cost less.
Most netbook processor architecture is based on x-86 technology with speeds of either 1.6 GHz or 1.66 GHz. Some netbooks integrate MIPS design-compatible processors. However, MIPS based units, although less expensive, usually do not measure up to the processing power and speed of x-86 based products.
There are many choices of operating systems for a netbook. Approximately thirty-two percent of the netbooks sold today have some form of a customized Linux (Unix-like) operating system. Licenses for more mainstream operating systems are, not surprisingly, still the most popular.
As noted before, netbooks are not as powerful and functional as their laptop cousins. Most do not come with a standard hard disk installed. Some do have the means for data storage using an SSD (solid-state drive) with storage a capacity of up to 32GB or 64GB. SSDs are faster and more durable than rotating hard drives, but their capacities pale by comparison to conventional ones whose storage can reach up to 160 GB. Moreover, few netbooks are configured with DVD drives and there is limited memory expansion, further minimizing its overall functionality.
As internet connection is a top feature of netbooks, wireless capabilities are a main concern. All netbooks are Wi-Fi capable and are very flexible with their means of connectivity. Ethernet, broadband, dial-up and even mobile phone networks are options available to users.
Surfing the net is not its only function. Business travelers find them handy to carry with them for easy access to spreadsheets and for checking emails. Students like that they are lightweight and easy to take to class for taking notes as well as having in their dorms for word processing and managing music libraries.
Before investing in a netbook, the potential buyer should keep in mind the strengths and weaknesses of the product. Portability, easy access to the internet and low price all work in favor of netbooks, while low processing power and minimal configuration options and flexibility work against them. Knowing these attributes up front will help deter buyer’s remorse.
If you enjoyed this post, please consider to leave a comment or subscribe to the feed and get future articles delivered to your feed reader.
Comments
No comments yet.
Leave a comment