Now that everybody (or so it seems) is buying notebook computers, it's a good time to share a few tips on what to look for and how to compare notebook features.

First and foremost, you need to understand the processor options. While a higher speed machine is faster than one with a lower number (500 vs. 750, for example) this is only true within the same class of processor. In order of performance, there is the Pentium, Pentium MMX, Pentium II, Pentium III and now the Pentium 4, all from Intel.

While there's no good rule of thumb to know how much more power one generation has over another, each line does run faster than its predecessor does. Thus, if you're going to compare notebook prices, make sure that you're comparing units within the same chip generation.

The next feature that greatly affects cost, and needs some explanation is that of notebook display screens. While the acronyms abound, there are really just two basic options: Active or Passive, either of which comes in a range of sizes from eleven to fifteen inches. Forgetting all of the marketing maneuvers, if the notebook manufacture doesn't say the display is "Active" matrix or "TFT" then the unit has a passive display.

For a salesperson, who will likely have clients and customers view presentations on the notebook, an active display is an absolute must, while a screen size of at least thirteen inches is recommended. While passive displays cost less, they are not easily viewable from an angle, making them only suitable for individual use.

Since the active screens cost several hundred dollars more than their counterparts, when you shop for a notebook, make sure you are comparing units with the same size and type of display.

As one of the great benefits of a notebook computer is its portability, a few comments on batteries and internal components are in order.

As for batteries, simply make sure you are buying a computer that uses a "Lithium Ion" battery. Of all the varieties currently in use, lithium batteries have the greatest capacity and the longest useful life, too.

In terms of internal components, be aware that many notebook manufactures do not sell units where all of the internal parts are actually internal, at least not at the same time. Currently, quite a few of the notebook brands on the market only allow you to have the CD ROM or the floppy drive installed in the unit at any given time; but not both. Rest assured that carrying extra parts greatly diminishes the convenience of owning a notebook; and that whichever drive you need at any given moment will invariably be the one not currently inside your computer.

I strongly suggest you only consider notebooks that can actually have all of the inside parts, inside at the same time.

Additional features

While there are countless other features and options available, a few that should be seriously considered by the business user are as follows:

TV or S-Video Output

If you do intend on using your computer for business presentations, then the ability to patch into a TV using a standard RCA cable will be a real treat. Just about any TV or VCR has such inputs.

The addition of an S-Video port will provide even better clarity when using a TV for external display, but older units may not support this feature.

Thus, a notebook that can provide for either of these external display options is a good choice, while one that supports both features is best.

Internal Ethernet Adapters

While most notebooks now come equipped with internal modems, newer business models not often come with internal Ethernet adapters as well. If your office provides a network, or if you think you might like to network your personal notebook computer and your desktop unit, then this is an invaluable feature to shop for.

Not only will this save you the hassle of having to buy a plug-in adapter in the future, but having an internal Ethernet adapter saves you from compatibility and installations issues as well.

Firewire

The newer data ports that are in conformance with standard IEEE 1394 are commonly called Firewire ports. This standard is great for transferring large amounts of information, quickly. Right now, the most common accessory that uses Firewire is the new breed of digital video cameras.

Even if you don't own a DVC right now, or plan on buying one anytime soon, it's likely that other peripherals will soon begin to take advantage of the speed available using Firewire. Shopping for a notebook that offers this port will likely save you money and complications down the road.

Published: September 13, 2001

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