Photo of a computer

Laptops

As computers became more advanced with smaller components the range of computers available changed, and computers such as laptops were created.

A laptop is known to be a personal computer that is designed for mobile use. It gets its name as due to its small size it is capable of sitting on a persons lap when being used.

A laptop integrates the majority of the normal components of a desktop computer, which includes a display, a keyboard, a pointing device (usually a trackpad or touchpad), speakers and a battery into a single and light unit, with the ability to plug in separate features via USB capabilities.

Different Types of Laptop

The keyboard is more than often integrated onto the laptop and there are often microphones or webcams in-built into contemporary models. The battery is rechargeable by the AC adapted, typically storing enough energy to be able to run the laptop for between three to five hours in its initial state, depending on the configuration and power management of the computer.

Laptops are generally the shape of notebooks, with thicknesses ranging from between 18-38mm and dimensions between 10x8inches to 15x11 inches upwards. Contemporary laptops can weigh anywhere in-between 3-12lbs, with older models being much heavier.

The majority of laptops feature the flip form factor that protects the screen and keyboard when closed and not in use, whereas modern tablet laptops feature a complex joint between the keyboard and display panel that can swivel to lie flat on the keyboard housing.

Originally laptops were considered to be for a niche market thought suitable mostly for specialised field applications, such as scientific research, surveying, military operations, internal revenue, accountants and sales representatives, whereas today laptops are becoming an increasingly popular choice for home use and businesses. You can purchase laptops from the majority of the electronic manufacturers including Dell, Sony, Apple Macintosh, Toshiba, Acer, Linux, amongst others.

The term laptop covers a range of classes of small portable computers, that include the following:

Notebook: A notebook is a laptop PC that is at least 11 inches across, which is a minimum width that allows a full-size keyboard (QWERTY key layout), which is at least 1301/2 keys across on three-quarter inch centres. The first Notebook's were the size of a U.S. “A size” notebook piece of paper with A4-sized notebooks being introduced later.

Sub-Notebook/Netbook: A netbook is a laptop PC that is less that 11 inches wide, with a less than full-size keyboard and consequently a less display screen width. These netbook laptops are usually lower cost, increasingly lighter in weight and have less-features than a notebook laptop, with many not featuring things such as a disc drive.

Ultra-thin Laptop: These are relatively new laptops that are very thin and lightweight.

Tablet PC: Tablet PCs have a small, chiclet keyboard and/or a touch-screen interface.

Rugged: These are engineered to be able to operate in tough conditions such as extreme temperatures, wet and dusty environments and strong vibrations.

Laptops are incredibly versatile and you are sure to find one with the capabilities for your specific needs. Laptops are widely available from a range of stores and online.