Notebook

What are the basic attributes you should look for in a notebook computer? First, let's examine the issue of batteries. Although PC technology has come quite a long way since IBM's first PC sold in 1981, battery technology has not kept pace with the evolution of processors. Thus, even laptops with 'all the bells and whistles' often get paired with mediocre to potentially inadequate batteries.

To protect yourself against power losses, it's a good idea to purchase a backup battery and keep this battery charged and ready. Cheaper, more portable notebooks may come with good batteries, but don't hesitate to splurge on a 9V lithium ion battery or a NiMH battery. Read consumer reviews about notebook battery life. The 'bigger, better' models may actually use up more juice (and thus yield shorter battery life) than the cheaper notebooks.

You should also think about the amount of RAM you're going to need before pricing gadgets, ports, and accessories. 256 MB of RAM comes standard on most low- to mid-range laptop notebooks. This amount of RAM is fine for general applications, but if you run a 3-D game or play a DVD movie on your screen, your visual graphics card may consume 128 MB of RAM, leaving you at half capacity right away.

It's generally worth it to upgrade to 512 MB of RAM. Some notebooks come with so-called DDR2 RAM; it is wise to try to get DDR2 memory support for your unit. Finally, get good connectivity. Get a wireless card installed and maybe even splurge for a Bluetooth personal area network so that you don't have to rely on cords to connect your various computer appliances.