As technology advances, owning a laptop has become increasingly popular. Laptops are now able to do anything that a desktop computer can, as well as being conveniently portable. Whether you are a busy professional or you merely like to be able to use a computer away from home, a notebook computer is a useful item to own. Shopping for the ideal laptop can be quite a daunting task, especially for those who aren’t well-versed in the intricacies of computing equipment.
 
It is important that you take the time to learn a little about a laptop’s components and specifications, so that you can decide exactly what you require of your laptop.
 
Features to consider when choosing your laptop

• Processor
   
  A laptop’s processor is the component that establishes how fast it can run on-screen processes. These days, most good laptops have Intel Core 2 Duo or Dual Core processors, like the Toshiba Tecra and Toshiba Satellite / Satellite Pros, all of which have sufficient processing capabilities for everyday use. 

The latest craze is a student or micro Laptop (now refered to as netbooks) with an Intel Atom Processor, optimised for ultra portability check out the Toshiba NB100-11B Atom Netbook
 
If you are looking for a tougher solution and do not mind your laptop running slightly slower than more advanced models, consider purchasing one with an Intel Core Solo processor, like the Panasonic CF-W5 Toughbook. It might not run as smoothly as other notebooks, but it will handle that occasional drop, spill and is optimised for outdoor usage.

• System Memory
   
  The amount of random access memory (RAM) a laptop has directly affects the number of applications and processes that it can run at one time. This means that the more ram you have, the faster your notebook will run.
   
  It is relatively simple to install extra RAM at a later date if you decide that your laptop is not working fast enough. However notebook/computer memory changes regulary and older modules are not always available later so, it is best to buy the correct amount of pre-installed RAM to save yourself the hassle of trying to add more in the future.
   
  Most laptop computers are sold with two gigabytes of RAM pre-installed, but it’s advisable to increase that to three gigabytes, especially if you will be running Windows Vista.

• Graphics Memory
   
  A graphics memory card increases the display capabilities of your notebook computer screen. Laptops are generally sold with a universal display function, but you should consider increasing the size of your graphics memory card, particularly if you often use your laptop to watch DVDs and other media.

• Screen
   
  Though the general consensus is that laptops should be as small as possible, the quality of a notebook computer’s screen goes against this trend. The larger your laptop’s screen is, the better its resolution will be. It might make it slightly bulkier, but not only will the quality be better, but it will also be healthier for your eyesight. If you regulary work for 8 hours straight in front of a laptop, for the best resolution, choose a notebook with a screen larger than 13.3 inches.
   
  It is also important to take the coating of the screen into account. Make sure that you are able to see text easily in a variety of environments. The reason for owning a portable computer is that you can use it almost anywhere. Often, screens with an extra glossy coating look great when the computer is switched off, but can be difficult to use outdoors or in public areas, for example. The Panasonic Toughbooks have a unique coating on the screens for optimal outdoor usage.

• Battery
   
  A laptop’s battery life dictates how long it takes for the power to run down before needing to be recharged. The general battery life of a laptop can range from between two hours to five hours, depending on whether it is a regular battery or an extra-life battery. If you are away from your home or office for prolonged periods of time, consider purchasing a laptop with an extra-life battery to avoid losing work due to battery failure.

• Keyboard and pointing device
   
  Though the placement of keys on a keyboard is fairly standard, it can be quite an adjustment learning how to type on a keyboard that is smaller than your desktop computer. The size of your laptop will directly affect the size of its keyboard. The smaller the laptop, the smaller its keyboard will be.
   
  Most notebooks are fitted with a standard touchpad pointing device to replace the standard desktop mouse, though some are fitted and eraser head which saves space. Make sure that your preferred pointing device is featured on a laptop before making your purchase.

• Rewritable DVD drive
   
  Most laptops include an optical drive in the form of a DVD-drive or, more recently a Blu-ray drive. This allows you to read information that has been burned to DVD or Blu-ray. Blu-ray discs are able to hold a much larger amount of information, but are still quite expensive and not used by many people. If you intend to use an optical drive for your own personal needs, then a Blu-ray drive is ideal. If you wish to share information with other computer owners then it is advisable to choose a DVD drive.

• Hard drive
   
  A hard drive is where all of your data is stored on your laptop. Technology has advanced to the extent that many notebooks are sold with an 80 gigabyte hard drive pre-installed. Some more expensive laptops are fitted with greater capacity hard drives. The Toshiba Qosimo X300-11T, for example, is produced with a 320 gigabyte hard drive.
   
  For your day-to-day needs, you should not require more than 80 gigabytes storage space unless you collect a lot of media or work with specialised image or sound editing programs.

• USB ports
   
  Currently, USB is the most common way of connecting additional devices such as an external hard drive, a mouse or an iPod to your laptop. Most notebooks have four USB ports, which should be sufficient for everyday needs.

• Wireless capabilities
   
  If you want to be able to connect to the Internet easily, it is highly recommended that you choose a laptop with wireless Internet capabilities. This will allow you to connect to the Internet wherever there is a hotspot or wireless Internet connection. As the Internet becomes more popular, this will become a more standard feature.

Nashua Electronics offers a selection of laptops and accessories for laptops to suit your needs.
 
Now that you understand a little more about laptops and can assess which components you are most likely to need, take a look at our range of laptops online. Whether you are looking for a high-powered notebook with extensive features or a simple unit on which to type documents, Nashua Electronics has the right laptop for your needs.

Be sure to check out our buyer’s guides for information on Toshiba laptops, netbooks and notebooks.
 
Keep an eye out for laptop special deals on our website.