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The idea of a portable personal computer is as old as personal computers but the technology to create one took a while to catch up. IBM created the first portable computer in 1973 and put it on the market in 1975. The IBM 5100 was huge compared to present day laptops, weighing in at 55 lbs, and had a large price tag to match, various versions sold from around $9000 to over $19,000.
Over the following years, laptops have dropped significantly in size and price as technological advances have made their components smaller and cheaper to manufacture. Today, laptops are almost as common as desktop computers, comparable in processing power and range in price from around $300 to $2000. -
While there are many laptops available on the market, there are two basic types: Windows platform and Macintosh platform.
Window platform are laptops that use Microsoft's Windows or Vista operating systems to run all of the laptop's basic functions like turning on and off, organizing files, accessing the Internet and audio/visual applications. Almost any brand of laptop can use MS Windows operating systems except those made by Apple.
Apple laptops like the iBook and MacBook use the Macintosh platform developed by Apple. For the most part, laptops that run on the Mac operating system are not compatible with Window's based applications like MS Office and many online games and downloads. Many users prefer using laptops that run Windows because of the incompatibility issue, although most Mac users swear by Apple products saying that the system is faster and more stable than Windows. However, most companies are now making both Windows and Mac versions of their laptop applications. -
Laptops basically function as portable personal computers. They are now able to perform almost all of the functions originally performed by PCs while being significantly smaller and lightweight. Most laptops have just as much processing power and RAM as conventional computers. They are able to connect to the Internet the same as personal computers, either via phone cord, cable, satellite hook-up, hot spots or through a wireless router.
Some basic laptop functions: Accessing the Internet, Gaming, Word Processing, Graphic Applications, and Audio/Visual Programs. -
Laptops feature a LCD screen that also function as the unit's cover. The screens can run from 14 to 17 inches in width depending on the size of the unit.
Laptops feature full keyboards built-into the unit. These keyboards feature all of the same functions as a traditional computer keyboard.
Laptops have built-in mouse pads or buttons that function as a selector device. They are also able to support a traditional wired mouse or a wireless mouse.
Many laptops have built-in Web cameras located at the top of the LCD screen.
Laptops have CD drivers and many also have CD writing capabilities and DVD players.
Laptops are powered by rechargeable batteries or through a power cord. The average laptop battery life between charges is 3-6 hours. -
Although laptops have almost the same functions of traditional desktop computers, there are still some things to consider when deciding which type of computer to purchase.
Price -- Lately, laptops have been coming down in price but PCs are still significantly cheaper.
Space -- Laptops take up a lot less space than a PC's tower, monitor and cords.
Portability -- Laptops beat PCs hands down in this area, they are totally portable making them perfect for business and school.
Processing Power -- Although laptops are steadily gaining more processing power, PCs for the most part still have more power to use large programs such as graphics software and multimedia applications.
Memory -- Again, laptops are quickly gaining more memory space but PCs usually have more room and the ability to have additional memory added.
Screens -- Laptop screens have come a long way but they still have some issues when it comes to viewing; for some people the screens are too small to view comfortably and they are often impossible to see in a bright room or in sunlight.
