Most of the initial decisions you make when planning to buy a notebook are the same as those you make when you plan to buy a desktop system. You should consider your processor speed, memory, and hard disk storage needs as well as extras like a CD or DVD burner and multi-media accessories like flash card readers.
To get a jump-start on your basic notebook requirements, take an inventory of the hardware and software your current desktop systems have. You'll want your notebook to match these capabilities, at the very least, and chances are you'll want it to exceed them. Remember, your notebook is going to be the computer you use day in and day out, so be sure you invest enough in it now so it can serve you well for two or three years (at least).
Also remember, however, that your notebook computer is only one part of your notebook solution. Accessories and peripherals make up the rest. To finalize your notebook solution requirements, you'll need to examine your work patterns and think about the different ways you need (and want) to work.
Note: While you should keep in mind what new activities you might be looking at down the road and incorporate them into the notebook configuration that you select, don't spend too much energy trying to predict the future. Notebook computers, like their desktop cousins, are designed to be flexible and easy to upgrade.
To get started, first make a list of all of the places you want to work. Then, make a list of the different activities you want to perform at each location. Finally, think about the different devices you want to use at each location and what kind of network connectivity you plan to use. Will you be using your portable in a wireless mode? Will you need to connect while traveling via standard phone lines?
If you have a small network at home and a totally different one at work, not to worry. Today's operating systems allow users a great deal of flexibility. Most systems allow you to have one configuration set up for your office network and peripherals and another configuration at home for the network you have there. Moreover, the same system can have the ability to operate remotely as a standalone system, working offline, or as a workstation dialing into a network.
When you're done with your list, it should look something like this table:
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