Buying a laptop or desktop PC for business involves some of the same considerations as buying a computer for home use. Laptop computers have revolutionized the mobile workforce, and people from all walks of business life now carry their personal computers with them in the form of a laptop. But how do you know if a laptop is right for you or your business? Additionally, what specific business features should you look for when purchasing a laptop?
Below are some guidelines for buying a laptop computer for business.
Do You Need a Laptop Computer?
The first question you must ask is, “What will this laptop computer do to help my business?” This is not an easy question to answer since laptop computers also carry a status symbol with them. This image could add to the your perceived integrity when visiting a customer or client. Beyond that, it is truly a matter of functionality (or mobility) that the laptop computer will provide you. If portability and/or mobility are not a factor, then a laptop will add little value to your business, and therefore is not required.
Laptop Design and Construction
One of the most important decisions, but yet most difficult to quantify, is the overall design and construction of the laptop computer. This will ultimately determine the level of durability that any business laptop must possess. Unfortunately, plastic is still the most common material used in the construction of a laptop and is also the least durable. Recently, more manufacturers are turning to aluminum as a better alternative to plastic. If you want the ultimate in durability, then look for a magnesium alloy frame and shell construction.
Size and Weight
Since you will be carrying this laptop around for business, size and weight will be important. The heaviest single component in the laptop is the battery. Unfortunately, the smaller the battery, the shorter the battery life will be.
Screen and Keyboard Size
The smaller the screen (and therefore keyboard) the lighter the laptop will be. If you will be using this laptop to show clients presentations, then a larger screen will be required. If you have minor vision impairment, then a larger screen will be required. Additionally, if you have mobility problems with your hands, then you require a larger keyboard. Smaller laptops, on the other hand, will have a smaller than standard size keyboard that will be more difficult to use by people with disabilities. Otherwise, it is a matter of preference for each individual user.
Processing Power (CPU)
The processing power required for business laptop is mostly dictated by the applications that the laptop will be running. Simple word processing and spreadsheet applications can be run on a low-end processor. Video and more processor intensive applications, such as custom written software or engineering related applications, will require an upper end processor.
Memory Size (RAM)
The size of memory (RAM) will be dictated by the type of applications that you will be running simultaneously. If you need to keep an order entry program, a web browser, a spreadsheet and a word processor open all at the same time, than the additional money spent to upgrade RAM will be money well spent.
Hard Drive Size
Finally, the amount of hard drive space available to store data files must be taken into account. Most laptops come with a minimum hard drive size that is capable of storing the operating system and standard business applications. If you need to make multimedia presentations that consist of digitized video, then an upgrade to the hard drive will also be required.
Chima Michael Oleru
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