Something You Should Know When Selecting Notebook

Since I've mentioned something about notebook / netbook during previous post, might as well I continue sharing my thoughts in some basic things which you might be interested to know before you make your final decision on getting the notebook you desired but might not fulfill what you hope for. What I'm about to say might be something common but generally get overlooked easily. Here goes:

1. Look for notebook with build-in features like WIFI, Bluetooth, Card reader & Web camera

I noticed there are power issue happens when we try to add in the feature mentioned above using USB adapter in notebook models with no such function ready for use. The situation is very obvious especially when we try to use USB bluetooth / WIFI adapter which usually draw lots of energy where you might notice other USB device suddenly stop functioning & lost sight in the system. If you really can't have it all, try go for at least WIFI, card reader & web camera which are the basic features nowadays.

2. If weight is an issue, opt for notebook with external DVD-ROM
Some user might prefer to have a lighter notebook or rarely use ROM drive thus an external drive such as slim DVD-RW ROM would be suitable for them. Best is getting the notebook model which includes such slim DVD drive within the package.

3. Get a notebook with at least 3 USB port (if possible)
This is crucial especially if you can't counter the issue 1 mentioned above where the notebook still lack of some feature. Best practice is spare 1 vacant USB port for temporary plug & play device such as thumb drive & mobile hard disc.

4. Keyboard layout must be sensible
Since you may rely on the notebook keyboard for data input, the buttons must be arrange in suitable size and ergonomic (comfort for human interaction) order. It is not feasible to force your fingers to type on small and congested keypad which result slow performance and higher mistake rate.

5. Choose the notebook with wider touch pad
Some notebook manufacturers prefer to add in scrolling features within the touch pad region which might cause the initial not very wide touch pad become even smaller to navigate the pointer. Best advice is to get the model with minimum 4.5cm x 8cm touch pad size.

6. Ensure good internal air flow and ventilation design
Some notebook processors does generate great amount of heat when operating under normal room temperature where you can't even stand it when you place the notebook on top of your thighs. Do simple test on the preferred model where you can let it on and run some simple application for about 5-10 minutes while observe if the heat generated can be dispersed properly or not.

Last but not least, get some decent advice from reliable notebook seller to increase good chance to own the right notebook within your budget. Hope these helps!