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TECH TALK: LAPTOPS |
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Thursday, 01 March 2007 |
Helping Small Businesses and Organizations Bridge the Digital Divide
LAPTOPS
There are many choices for today's laptop consumer. I will
highlight some solutions for the small business owner with a tight budget.
Fortunately, all the power you need in a laptop can be had at an affordable
price.
The most common usages of a laptop are as a desktop
replacement and/or travel. If you will use the laptop to replace your desktop,
you will want a laptop that has more RAM, CPU power and peripheral connections.
For travel, you will want to consider a lighter laptop, portable peripherals
(such as a printer, mouse, keyboard, etc...) and additional batteries.
It is important to consider how you will backup your data
and synchronize with other computers, such as your desktop computer, if you
have one. Both of these functions can be performed using free Microsoft tools;
Microsoft Backup for data backup and Microsoft SyncToy for synchronizing
between computers. You may also consider purchasing an external hard drive to
back up your data. Make sure that the storage capacity on the external hard
drive is at least as large as the hard drive on your laptop.
Most modern laptops will come equipped with a built in WIFI
card. You can find free Internet access locations here:
http://www.jiwire.com/search-hotspot-locations.htm. If you require Internet
access wherever you are, consider a mobile broadband account with your cell
phone provider. In some cases you can access the Internet through your PDA or
cell phone.
Protect your investment with a good insurance and/or
warranty policy. You will also want to bring your laptop in to an authorized
maintenance provider once a year for cleaning, especially if you travel with
the laptop often. Don't forget to invest in a padded case for added security.
Many stores carry quality laptops, such as Costco, Sam's
Club, Best Buy, Circuit
City and CompUSA. For
ratings and price comparisons, check out
http://www.pcworld.com/product/reviewfinder.html?id=6. You can usually find
great deals at http://www.dealsea.com; however, check the comments associated
with the link before making your purchasing decision. I suggest that you try
the laptop out in the store.
Next I will cover Pocket PC's and Smart Phones.
Please send all feedback, topic suggestions and/or questions
to
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Digital archives can be found at
www.BlackVoiceNews.com and www.IngleWoodToday.com.
Elmer Thomas Jr. is Founder of Above the Limit, Inc., an
award winning web and software development company dedicated to bridging the
digital divide. You can find out more about Mr. Thomas at
www.AboveTheLimit.com.
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