Netbook Computers - FAQ
Questions:
- So What is a Netbook Computer ?
- What are the standard features of a Netbook Computer ?
- What are the advantages of a Netbook Computer ?
- What about internal storage space ?
- How is this different from a PDA ?
- Which size is better 10.2", 8.9" or 7" ?
- What about the small screen ?
- What about the keyboard ?
- Netbook Comparison Chart
- Netbook Computer Manufacturers
Answers:
1: So what is a Netbook?
Basically, it is a small computer, often marketed as a web-device but actually capable of doing everything your desktop or notebook computer can do. It is, in all respects, a standard PC.2: What are the standard features of a Netbook Computer?
All Netbooks will be fitted with standard features as follows:- 1Gb Memory
- WiFi (WLAN) capability minimum 802.11b
- Minimum 84-key keyboard (separate in the case of Q1 Ultra)
- Integrated 1w speakers
- Minimum 2x USB ports
- Minimum 3-in-1 Media Slot for SD/MMC cards
- Most have 1.3m integrated webcam
- Most have a carry case of some description
Additionally, most Netbooks are built around the new Intel Atom ® processor, which is power-efficient, optimised for Personal Computing use, and built on the very latest manufacturing technology.
3: What are the advantages of a Netbook Computer?
The advantages of a Netbook Computer are:- Price - apart from the more specialist machines, Netbooks are becoming the cheapest PC platform.
- Small Size making it easy to use on the desk.
- Screen quality - LED vs. LCD Technology
- Very Light - weighs a Kilo or less, which is a bag of sugar. A standard laptop weighs at least 2 or 3 kilos, sometimes more.
- Portability on account of its small size and weight
- Longer Battery Life most netbooks have good battery life, and especially the Asus range, on account of their solid-state hard disks
4: What about internal storage space ?
Apart from the Asus range, Netbooks are fitted with the same 2.5" hard disks as conventional notebook computers.Besides, apart from serious media collectors or downloaders and file-sharers, most people really don't use very much space at all.
And for security reasons, you shouldn't have too much personal data anyway, read our article on Data Security for more information.
5: How is this different from a PDA ?
The principle difference between a Netbook and a PDA is that a PDA is really a glorified organiser whereas a Netbook is a PC.PDAs tend to run Windows Pocket Edition ® which is a very cut down and limited version of Windows. Applications have to be specially written, and programs will rarely have the same functionality as their PC equivalents.
On the other hand, Netbooks will run full versions of Windows or Linux Operating Systems, and will run the same software as a desktop or notebook computer.
6: What about the small screen ?
First of all, Netbook screens tend to be run on LED technology whereas most notebooks and PC monitors are LCD. What this means is that a 10.2" or 8.9" screen will appear just as sharp and usually brighter than a larger LCD equivalent. The resolution is smaller (1024x600 instead of 1280x1024, 1024x800, etc.) but importantly not widthways, so most things we work on are just as readable. 7" screens take slightly more getting used to on account of the size but nevertheless they are very usable, with crisp easily readable letters and graphics. A 7" screen becomes much more usable if it can be rotated to portrait view, such as with the Samsung Q1 Ultra or the Vye S37 and S41. Then a whole A4 page is easily viewed and with a touchscreen, as both these examples have, documents such as PDFs and other touchscreen-friendly applications can be finger-scrolled, making them emanently usable.7: What about the keyboard ?
For programmers, professional typists and youngsters, the small keyboard is not a problem, though the 7" is pushing it. At 10", the keyboard is not much smaller than a standard laptop.With the Q1 Ultra an external keyboard and holder are included, turning the machine into a desktop. Otherwise, an external USB keyboard can be added to any Netbook.
Consider also, expecially for 7" Netbooks, a flexible, roll-up keyboard! More details on our Netbook Accessories page.
8: Which size is better 10.2", 8.9" or 7" ?
Probably 10.2", because in actual fact, as you are using them you soon do not notice it is any smaller, because it is so easy to use, on account of the screen quality, the lightness of the thing, and the fact it takes up considerably less space.But for specialist users, programmers, and the like, the 7", with rotation and touchscreen capabilities is very useful.
Netbooks Comparison Chart:
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