The Advantages of Using Windows 7 on New Laptops

Windows 7 was launched in a blaze of publicity, advertising a more 'user-friendly' system than its predecessor Vista. But many people found Vista and even XP more than adequate for their needs, so if you're in the market for a new laptop, why should you think about buying one with the new Windows 7 operating system, rather than the tried and tested Vista or XP?

Future-proofing

Future-proofing is the new buzzword in technology. One of the most frustrating things for people using older machines or operating systems is the incompatibility problems that arise with the latest software systems. Microsoft have invested a huge amount of money and time developing Windows 7, which is why there has been such a delay between the launch of Vista and this latest upgrade. Because of the 'understanding' that many manufacturers who use Microsoft have with the company, the launch of Windows 7 is bound to herald a flurry of upgraded laptops designed to use Windows 7 as its primary operating system. So buying a laptop that has Vista or XP rather than Windows 7 could mean that future software designed to run on Windows 7 won't run on Vista or XP operating systems.

The Advantages of Using Windows 7 on New Laptops

However, if you only intend to use a laptop for web surfing, downloading media, emails and office documents such as Word or Excel, an older operating system could be just as effective as Windows 7. But with the wealth of new features available on Windows 7, it might be worth considering future-proofing yourself from the outset.

Upgrading - not exactly easy...

One of the biggest problems with upgrading is the limit imposed by the operating systems on just how easily you can upgrade to Windows 7 without having to do a clean install. That means wiping your hard drive and basically starting again. For Netbook users this presents a huge problem, as many Netbooks do not have CD ROMS, and to do a fresh install you need to be able to slot that operating system CD ROM into the computer.

The Advantages of Using Windows 7 on New Laptops

To avoid all the hassle of clean installs, wiping your hard drive and future-proofing yourself against future upgrades, it's wiser to start with Windows 7 as your standard operating system.

Security - a new level

One of the biggest worries for laptop users is the security aspect. Because of their portability, laptops are an easy target for unscrupulous hackers, opportunist thieves or even industrial espionage. One of the primary new features on Windows 7 is an improved level of security, something that'll make any laptop owner sleep a little better at night. Windows 7 also offers better taskbar features, an improved version of Windows Explorer to make surfing the 'Net easier and quicker and interface shortcuts that make it possible to run two applications side by side. For laptop owners with the advantage of dual core processing power, Windows 7 is tailor-made for laptop use. Microsoft have played it clever - they know full well that the market for laptops is a growing one, and Windows 7 is designed to grow with that market in tandem. By incorporating ideas that users actually want in an operating system, it may be some time before we see W8. So if you are thinking about buying a new laptop, it makes sense to get one with Windows 7 rather than the now considerably dated and troublesome Vista operating system.

HP Pavilion DV4-1433US 14.1-Inch Laptop - The Perfect Business & Student Laptop

If you often use you laptop for work or studies, it is vital that we get ourselves a powerful and reliable netbook model. In the laptop world, there are very few other brands that evoke the same reliability as a HP netbook. The HP Pavilion DV4-1433US 14.1-inch laptop for instance, is a great laptop model for work (and the occasional play).

HP Pavilion DV4-1433US 14.1-Inch Laptop - The Perfect Business & Student Laptop

The 14.1-inch size in my opinion gives the best balance between functionality and portability. It is large enough for a comfortable use and small enough to be carried around. This model measures at about 13.1 x 9.4 x 1.3 inches and weighs 5.08 pounds. The keyboard is very well designed, and the 14.1-inch HD screen is great for viewing documents or watching videos. For graphics, this laptop uses an Intel 4500MHD Graphics Media Accelerator with 1759MB allocated for graphics memory.

The HP Pavilion DV4-1433US is also powerful enough for moderately heavy computing tasks. It has a 2.1Ghz Intel Core 2 T6500 processor, 320GB for storage and 4GB of RAM for plenty of multitasking. There is also an HDMI port that lets you watch HD videos on larger HDTVs. If you wish to watch TV programs on this laptop, you can get the optional TV Tuner.

HP Pavilion DV4-1433US 14.1-Inch Laptop - The Perfect Business & Student Laptop

Design wise, the HP Pavilion DV4-1433US generally has a classic laptop design. It is mostly glossy black with silver edges. It is decorated with some white circle motifs that give it a more contemporary look. Currently, the HP Pavilion DV4-1433US 14.1-inch laptop retails for around $649, an excellent price for this very able laptop model!

HP Pavilion DV4-1433US 14.1 Inch Laptop - A Quick Review

From the looks of HP latest range of laptops, HP seems to have decided that plain looking laptops should be a thing of the past. Many of their new laptop models have subtle patterns and motifs, which is must say is rather refreshing! Some of their laptop designs have also won various international design awards.

The new HP Pavilion DV4-1433US laptop for instance has a glossy black external casing with faint imprints of wavy lines. It is also decorated by a few white circular patterns. Overall, it has a rather stylish effect. It manages to look edgy while maintaining its professional looks at the same time.

HP Pavilion DV4-1433US 14.1 Inch Laptop - A Quick Review

The HP Pavilion DV4-1433US is also no pushover when it comes to specs and performance. It has a 2.1Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, a huge 320GB and 4GB of RAM. The RAM can be upgraded to a max of 8GB for more computing oomph. It is a laptop that is designed for serious work and play.

The HP Pavilion DV4-1433US has a 14.1-inch high-resolution screen. It has a 1280 x 800 resolution that is great for watching HD videos. Like many HP tops, it even comes with a tiny remote for controlling multimedia playback. I am not sure what HP has done, but this new laptop model also runs much cooler than some of the older models, which is great news if you often use your laptop for prolonged periods of time. All in all, the HP Pavilion DV4-1433US is a wonderful combination of good design, powerful specs and a modest price tag. It will make a great buy for anyone who is looking for practical, full-featured laptop.

The History of Laptops

When it comes to computers and computer technology, it seems there is no limit to the possibilities. Computers were at one time huge and expensive devices, but now, thanks to the digital revolution, nearly every home has a computer, particularly small and lightweight portable laptops. This history of laptops is a fascinating story of evolving technology.

The concept of a portable computer system was born in the late 1960s and early 1970s. During this time period, researchers at Xerox were experimenting with a portable type computer called the Dynabook. The intention of the Dynabook was to be a kind of tablet computer that could run on battery life. However, technology had not yet evolved at this time to develop the Dynabook.

The History of Laptops

In 1981, the Osborne 1 system was developed for commercial purposes. This computer had a very small monitor but could not run on battery power. The Osborne 1 system gave businesses the ability, for the first time, to take their data with them, which included taking them on planes. However, because it could not run on battery power which prevented it from becoming a success.

The first real laptop computer was introduced in 1982. It could run on battery life and it contained a flat display screen that folded down on the keyboard. It also featured a clam shell design. It became known as the GRID Compass. Its design is still used for many laptops today. However, the high cost and IBM incompatibility made it unappealing in the commercial marketplace. It was mostly used by NASA and the US military.

In 1983, two new portable computers were introduced - The Epson HX-20 and Compaq Portable. They featured technological advancements that made them more viable for business use. The Compaq system was the first portable computer to be compatible with the MS-DOS operating system and IBM software. The Epson HX-20 was reasonably priced and could be run on rechargeable batteries.

The History of Laptops

In late 1983 the Kyocera Kyotronic 85 was released. This laptop was initially released in Japan but suffered from poor sales. However, American computer developers started marketing it in the United States and it had considerably more sales success. The laptop contained an internal modem and a number of programs that were designed by Microsoft. As well, it could run on regular AA batteries.

In 1986 and 1987, two IBM-compatible laptops were fairly good sales success. Manufactured by IBM and Toshiba, they had limited operating capabilities but they could run on batteries, lightweight, and had a pause feature that gave users the ability to resume work without restarting.

By 1987, several laptop manufacturers had emerged on the market, and competition among laptop manufacturers had greatly increased. A contract from the United States Air Force for the purchase of 200,000 laptops was offered and computer manufacturers competed intensely for it. Zenith Data Systems (ZDS) won the contract and became the largest manufacturer of laptop computers in the late 1980s.

ZDS partnered with a Japanese equipment supplier to boost the production of laptops. Also, Companies formed partnerships with Taiwanese suppliers and began to become leaders in the laptop market. In 1989, Apple Inc. released its first portable computer, the Macintosh Portable. The computer had a long battery life, clear display, but it was expensive and bulky. Apple's 1991 PowerBook series has such technological features as built-in network adapters, the keyboard placement we see today, and the touchpad mouse.

The History of Laptops

In 1995 Microsoft released the Windows 95 operating system. The development of Windows 95 standardized most areas of the laptop design. It was also during this time that such features as Intel Pentium processors, CD-ROM drives, and floppy disk drives, became standard features of most laptops. Since 1995, technology developments have improved laptops making them a popular computer system choice that is now used by millions of people all over the world

The Different Laptop Stands Available on the Market

Shopping for a laptop stand can be as head-wrecking as shopping for any other peripheral for your gizmos. But like everything else it's important to shop around and find what's right for you. There's no point in picking something up and realising it doesn't fit your needs at all. So here we have another list to once again help you pick from the very best. We'll detail two of the best out there.

The Griffin Elevator

This stand is highly sought after and with good reason. It's durable, sleek, and will suit pretty much anyone. Created with everyone in mind, this adjustable stand can raise up to 5.5" meaning your laptop can always be at eye level without question.

The Different Laptop Stands Available on the Market

This stand is made of metal and will fit in with most laptop design easily whilst also being easily storable with its foldable design. The non slip rubber means your laptop doesn't run the risk of sliding off and cracking itself off your desk. And its raised status means your laptop has room to breathe giving your hardware some much needed cooling reducing the risk of overheating and hard drive failure. This comes highly recommended from us and with good reason.

U Top Laptop Stand

The U Top laptop stand comes to us from Ergonomic Café and whilst it may not be the most attractive little stand, it definitely delivers what it promises. Advantages include the health benefits of improved posture, a slim lightweight and unique design that makes it ideal for traveling, six separate height settings and four cable storage slots; definitely something rare in something so small.

The Different Laptop Stands Available on the Market

This laptop stand is just one piece with folding and at only 3mm thick is definitely portable and great for travelling. Definitely worth a look if you find yourself abroad more oft than nought.

DIY

If you find you have some time on your hands and don't want to spend as much, head on over to instructables.com and look up some of the DIY laptop stands. Ingenious, simple and most of all cheap, the designs are very unique and allow you to do whatever you want with your own stand including color choice, material and size. The only limit on design is your imagination and possibly your collection of power tools.

The Different Laptop Stands Available on the Market

The choice of laptop stands goes well beyond what we've just listed but never think that shopping around won't help you. You could save bundles if you find the right deal at the right time.

Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H Laptop - Excellent Desktop Replacement Laptop

Sony's products have always been about premium quality. This usually translates to awesome design and excellent performance at a premium price. However, there are a few Sony products that are the exception to this, featuring the same premium quality design at a more affordable price. The Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H thankfully falls into this category as it features Sony's great sense of design in a 16.4-inch desktop replacement laptop.

Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H Laptop - Excellent Desktop Replacement Laptop

Design-wise there's little to fault the Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H with as it features the same thin-and-light form factor with clean-cut lines that other Sony Vaio laptops have. The keyboard follows Sony's flat-topped chiclet-style keys and has plenty of space including a numeric keypad. The typing experience is very comfortable, as good as any Macbook and should serve number crunching as well as any writer. The keyboard keys are also backlit so you can type in comfort even in the dark. The touch pad is equally comfortable with some multi-gesture support as well.

Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H Laptop - Excellent Desktop Replacement Laptop

The Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H is powered by an Intel Core i3 processor with 4GB of DDR3 memory allowing you to run any office application or spreadsheet with ease. However the laptop only offers an NVIDIA GT 310M discrete graphics so you are limited to light to mid-range gaming but this should be enough for most of the newer games with some tweaking. The laptop also comes with a Blu-ray combo drive which when coupled with the 16.4 inch screen's 1600 x 900 pixel resolution allows smooth 720p HD movies. The laptop is loaded with Sony software along with Microsoft Office so you can start using the laptop straight out of the box. The laptop lasts for about two hours and 30 minutes unplugged which is more than enough for most movies and gaming sessions.

Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H Laptop - Excellent Desktop Replacement Laptop

Sony's products have always been about premium quality. This usually translates to awesome design and excellent performance at a premium price. However, there are a few Sony products that are the exception to this, featuring the same premium quality design at a more affordable price. The Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H thankfully falls into this category as it features Sony's great sense of design in a 16.4-inch desktop replacement laptop.

Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H Laptop - Excellent Desktop Replacement Laptop

Design-wise there's little to fault the Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H with as it features the same thin-and-light form factor with clean-cut lines that other Sony Vaio laptops have. The keyboard follows Sony's flat-topped chiclet-style keys and has plenty of space including a numeric keypad. The typing experience is very comfortable, as good as any Macbook and should serve number crunching as well as any writer. The keyboard keys are also backlit so you can type in comfort even in the dark. The touch pad is equally comfortable with some multi-gesture support as well.

The Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H is powered by an Intel Core i3 processor with 4GB of DDR3 memory allowing you to run any office application or spreadsheet with ease. However the laptop only offers an NVIDIA GT 310M discrete graphics so you are limited to light to mid-range gaming but this should be enough for most of the newer games with some tweaking. The laptop also comes with a Blu-ray combo drive which when coupled with the 16.4 inch screen's 1600 x 900 pixel resolution allows smooth 720p HD movies. The laptop is loaded with Sony software along with Microsoft Office so you can start using the laptop straight out of the box. The laptop lasts for about two hours and 30 minutes unplugged which is more than enough for most movies and gaming sessions.

Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H Laptop - Excellent Desktop Replacement Laptop

All in all, the Sony Vaio VPCF12AFM/H is an impressive 'value' Vaio for the desktop replacement crowd as it integrates good performance components into a Sony Vaio laptop without costing too much. It should serve most mainstream users and gamers well, especially those looking for a nicely designed laptop to replace their aging or broken desktop computers.