ALL ABOUT NOTEBOOKS & SMARTBOOKS

Smartbooks & Netbooks: heart and brain of your computer

The first proposals to create a new market segment based on the union of laptops and mobile

They are called "smartbooks" and are halfway between a smart phone (smartphone) and a low-cost notebook (netbook). Flood the market soon, or at least that is the intention of the manufacturers. Leading developers of microprocessors and personal computers are looking to launch a device that satisfies both those who demand more features to the phone as for those who want to take your computer around with you. A study by ABI Research believes that by 2015, 163 million market for these devices.The so-called "smartbooks" are sized laptops and similar benefits on a "netbook", but whose major hardware components, such as the microprocessor or the graphics card are the same of "smartphones." In this way, have benefits of these telephone terminals, but have the appearance of a personal computer with a slightly larger screen and full QWERTY keyboard.

Among these devices is projected to be the Apple tablet, IPAD, because it uses hardware components of the iPhone. It also has a special version of this phone operating system adapted to operate at a larger screen size, as is the case of the IPAD screen. Among the main features of this equipment are its small size, weight and long battery life Among the main features of this equipment are its small size and weight, a battery lasting around eight hours per charge cycle, 3G and WiFi connectivity-something already common in most smartphones, and in some cases, a GPS navigator. In terms of software, have a custom GUI easy and intuitive, similar to a mobile telephone with direct access to applications and online services, and desktop programs.

As an operating system, manufacturers are betting on Linux based systems such as a version of Android, the Google-driven operating system for mobile phones, or Chrome OS, the version of Google for Netbooks. The idea of these devices are able to use applications already used for mobile phones, which are found in various shops of programs developed by leading mobile phone manufacturers and telecom operators.

Some netbook models

The chip maker Qualcomm is one of the companies most committed to this segment. Recently announced new Snapdragon processor models compatible with Chrome and Android OS. For its part, the computer maker HP has introduced the "Smartbook" Compaq Airlife 100, a laptop with a 10.1 inch screen, SSD solid-state memory of 16 gigabytes and Qualcomm Snapdragon processor of a gigahertz. It has a "slot" (port, slot) SIM card, wifi access and SD card reader. The battery life is estimated at twelve hours. Regarding the operating system, Airlife 100 is based on a version of Android. His marketing is done through telecommunications operators, together with associated data plan. Movistar in Spain will market from the second quarter.

Haleron Smartbook Mini is a laptop with a seven-inch screen, which features a 300 MHz VIA processor, 128 megabytes of RAM and disk space of one gigabyte. Regarding connectivity, it has wifi and battery life is estimated at eight hours of normal use. By default, runs on Windows CE 6, but you can use another operating system like Windows XP or Linux. If you use Windows XP, you need to replace the processor with a compatible with the x86 architecture. The estimated price of $ 149.

Linux based netbooks

The manufacturers are betting on Linux-based operating systems, with versions of OS Android and Chrome.
For its part, Lenovo introduced at the last CES 2010 "Smartbook" Skylight, a laptop with a 10.1 inch screen and a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon processor of a gigahertz and a gigabyte flash memory twenty gigabytes of space with two additional online. Paragraph connectivity with 3G connection is solved by a module for SIM cards, WiFi and Bluetooth. The battery life is ten hours of normal operation, as advertised. The operating system is based on Linux and provides a graphical environment designed to work as a shortcut to Web applications and multimedia. It has a direct shortcut to Gmail, Facebook and YouTube, and various widgets presinstalados access to Amazon MP3 (Amazon music store) or Roxio to buy and download CinemaNow movies and music.

Skylight Lenovo will be sold through telecom operators. For the moment, is scheduled to exit the U.S. market in April with AT & T, at a cost of $ 499, along with a data plan with two-year tenure, which in principle does not seem too attractive an offer. U.S. semiconductor maker Freescale microprocessor-responsible Kindle electronic book reader from Amazon, has submitted a "Smartbook" in tablet form. This device has a resistive touch screen of seven inches, a one gigahertz processor i.MX515, 515 megabytes of RAM and disk capacity of between 4 and 64 gigabytes, depending on the configuration chosen. In the area of connectivity, has "slot" for a SIM card, wifi, Bluetooth and GPS. Still no release date, but the price of most basic device is $ 190.

Nettop, desktops, low cost computers

They are cheaper, are designed to surf the Internet and have a reduced size and weight. After the success of low-cost notebooks (known as "netbook"), now the computer industry prepares for the commercial launch of the first desktop computers with a lower cost than current units. These are called "nettop", a concept that is the main driver chip maker Intel. Intel wants to develop a processor that enables the computer brands sell their equipment at a price of 100 euros and 300 euros. According to the National Institute of Statistics, the average price of computers has fallen by 23.1% in the last twelve months. Only in the first six months of this year, the decline was 12.5%. This drop in the price of computers is driven by new market segments where the industry wants to locate, especially in laptops, more economical and efficient models.

Despite the trend, desktop computers are in Spain to 33% more expensive than in other European countries, mainly due to the type of taxation and tariffs. However, under the term "nettop" is a new range of desktop computers low cost can equal the average price of these devices with the rest of the European Union. And the main culprit for its release is Intel. Under the name Intel Atom, the chip maker wants to develop a prototype processor that enables the computer brands sell their equipment for between 100 euros and 300 euros to the end user. For the integration of Intel Atom feasible, officers may not have great fans, the processor must be welded to the plate and have a smaller power supply box. The only way to achieve performance and size efficient device to the user.

First prototypes

Like the "netbook", the "nettop" are intended to be used by users that do not require large memory hard drive and want to simply perform simple actions like surfing the Internet, manage e-mail or office computer to perform tasks with processor text and spreadsheet. One of the first prototypes made by Intel for "nettop" includes an integrated processor Atom dual-core low voltage, a slot for up to two gigabytes of DDR2 RAM and various ports for peripherals such as a six-channel audio, four USB 2.0 ports, two PS2 connectors (keyboard and mouse) and an Ethernet port. According to IDC, in 2012 there will be about nine million desktop computers at low cost. Intel forecasts are higher, as estimated in the market place about 60 million Intel Atom processors for low-cost computers in the next five years.

The return of PC fool?

A decade ago, we tried to market desktop computers designed for the Internet, the so-called "PC fools." However, due to the low access speed, its high price and a marketing strategy wrong and has not failed again had an impact on the subject to date. Now, this new market segment is backed by major companies such as Intel, HP and Dell. In addition, companies like Microsoft see these new markets as a way to extend the life of Windows XP operating system. Microsoft will enable manufacturers of such computers to install Windows XP, to address the threat posed by some manufacturers use the Linux operating system in this market. Thus, the "nettop" Windows XP will have factory support and assurance that will not enjoy the other desktops.

On the other hand, due to its configuration, its performance and small size makes them easy to move and place anywhere, it is expected that this type of equipment being used as classroom computers for playing multimedia files or access to TV Network from the user. However, it should be borne in mind that in most cases these devices lack features such as DVD or Blu-Ray and HDMI output, a port that is used to watch videos in HD quality. Moreover, despite its low cost, we must not forget that their use is necessary to have a screen, keyboard and mouse, which raises the total price.

The first commercial proposals

Asus Ebox: The Taiwanese manufacturer Asus introduced last June eBox your product. This desktop computer features an Intel Atom 1.6 gigahertz, a 160-gigabyte hard drive, two gigabytes of RAM and 802.11n Wi-Fi connection. At first the operating system will Xandrox, a Linux distribution, but later offered a version with Windows XP operating system. The estimated price is around $ 300.
MSI Wind PC: Wind PC is MSI's first proposal maker in the segment of the "nettop." This team has an Intel Atom processor, 160 gigabyte hard drive and a gigabyte of RAM. According to the manufacturer uses only four watts of power, nine times porcesador lowest power laptop. The estimated price is $ 300.
Shuttle X27: Shuttle company specializing in Barebone, ie semiensamblados computers to finish configuring the user hardware, has released the X27 model, a low cost computer has an Intel Atom processor, four USB ports, audio connections and video output VGA and DVI.
Dell Studio Hybrid: a supposed energy consumption 70% lower than a conventional desktop computer, the manufacturer Dell has unveiled its first proposal for a low cost computer designed to navigate and run multimedia applications. Beneath the casing has an Intel Core 2 Duo two gigahertz, two gigabytes of RAM and a 160 gigabyte hard drive. As for connections, features three USB ports and Firewire and Ethernet ports. It also has video output HDMI and DVI for connection to a TV screen in high definition. The price in its most basic configuration is 499 euros.

Considerations when choosing a laptop and notebook

The resistance, autonomy, connectivity, its ability to handle graphics ... There are many factors to evaluate before purchasing a laptop. When purchasing a laptop, regardless of make, must assess a number of features to compare models with knowledge of the facts, and ultimately choose the one that best fits our needs.

* Dimensions and weight: In any portable device, which weigh and measure what is obviously a factor to take into account. Ultralight kits are less than two kilograms of weight machines and five or six kilos for those who care least this factor. Also, the robustness or fragility of equipment is important to use depending on your intended purpose. It is not a fixed rule, but usually at a lower weight and size, the less resistance. Of course there are always available in the market to give special briefcases bad life with greater assurance.

* Autonomy: These are the hours you can operate the laptop battery pulling. Is an element to take into account machinery to be used frequently without being connected to a power source. Is closely related to the microprocessor, as is usually the item that consumes more energy. The micro Intel Centrino, specially designed to optimize the performance of laptops, marked a revolution in this regard. The most reasonable is a range of two hours thereafter.

* Equipment: As in the desktop PC, we appreciate the hard drive capacity, type and power of the microprocessor, memory, and the characteristics of the graphics and sound cards. Then there is another side dish that can accompany them and you also have to consider, such as DVD players and recorders, integrated web cams ...

* Connectivity: Having a WiFi adapter for wireless Internet access, and Bluetooth, to communicate with the increasing number of peripherals and mobile devices that use it. It is also important to have integrated network card, modem, and a reasonable number of USB ports (three or more) and even FireWire.

* Screen: Like when you buy a desktop computer in which to work long hours is important to get a good monitor that does not cause eye strain and is large enough for the work we will perform (a graphic designer someone who works with plans, for example, need a monitor large in size), also the laptop TFT screen is an element to take into account if we are going to spend part of the day watching her. A good resolution, the standard resolution of a laptop is 1024x768, although there are higher-and, if possible, about 17 inches, is most desirable in this case. It is recalled that benefit most laptops to normal inch monitors.

* Software: Most laptops come with as decoy different programs, pre-installed or not, that may be attractive: some operating systems, image processing software, antivirus, windows vista vs. windows 7, linux ...

* Attractiveness: The design and color of a laptop can be a decisive element, although it goes without saying that it is most important.

* Price: Not last place is anything like the least important factor. As compare a bit more machines soon understand in which gives the best value for money. The prestigious brands such as HP and Sony, will always be more expensive. A change usually offer better guarantees and better service. What do I need? Obviously, once you know the different characteristics must reflect what we care about and others are expendable in terms of use we're going to give the machine. If you are having a laptop that you're going to give much jogging, for instance going to work continuously and must use it often in the open, its resistance will be essential. If we want to play with it, the graphics power will be essential, while there will be a basic factor if only you will be using to access the Internet and manage office software. Know your needs is the best way to ascertain if you buy a desktop computer, which also applies to a laptop. And beyond our needs, we must think of our limitations. Obviously, the main one is the money we are willing or can afford to pay us.

A final consideration. Laptops are more expensive (although its price has fallen significantly in recent times), fragile and cumbersome to extend to a desktop computer. Its main advantage, of course, lies in its portability. For some people are absolutely essential tools for this reason. Think well whether it is appropriate and worthwhile to purchase a laptop or, on the other hand can get away with a conventional PC. In certain situations, even buy two desktop computers will be more profitable in the long run to buy a laptop.

LINKS: * PC Repair, tips to treat, repair, expand and upgrade laptops. * Athena Program, laptops for students and teachers.

Tablet PC: They came to the world about four years ago and still call the laptops of the future. Do not yet have an overbearing presence in the market due to their higher cost, but many companies as Intel, HP and Microsoft continue to insist that the new generation of portable Tablet PC within the definition. They are of various types, but they all share certain features. The most striking is probably the touch screen that resembles the larger PDAs and allows them to dispense with the keyboard, making them more manageable than a standard laptop. Usually fit in desktop kits, consisting of keyboard, monitor and mouse to work in a more conventional way when necessary.

Ultraportable NOTEBOOKS:

A year and a half after the boom of the ultraportable, how these teams have evolved? Market success by combining small size with low prices, no component pointers and free operating systems based on Linux. The success was brilliant in several countries and have become one of the most recurrent tech gift. Today, the ultra expand their repertoire of prices and bet sizes and also for Windows. Most ultraportables are sold that iPhone, the popular Apple phone. This is determined by the statistics of the third quarter of 2008, Gartner and DisplaySearch. The phenomenon started as a bet of a few brands like Asus and Acer, has moved into most laptop manufacturers who now produce their own models to commercial success.

The seven-inch size is ideal for travel, but falls short if you want to use for extended hours. Parallel to the growth in demand for netbooks, these computers have increased in size. As shown, the Asus EEE PC, one of the pioneers in the successful segment, was sold initially with a 7-inch screen. Now, in addition to this format, it also features models with 9, 10 to 11.6 inches. This increase have also taken other brands. The reason is that a seven-inch size is ideal for travel, but falls short if you want to use for several hours. With increasing size of the screen, increase the team because the keyboard is set to this element. You gain in comfort, but you lose in portability. The battery lasts In the market include equipment to work with more than eight hours in length

A computer acquires the label of laptop according to the autonomy to provide your battery. Last year, the models ranged between two and four hours of continuous use. At present, the market can find equipment to work with more than eight hours, long enough for use on long trips by train or plane. This progress has been achieved by batteries with more cells and therefore more autonomy. Brands such as MSI, LG and Toshiba have launched this year with nine models that ensure cells between nine and twelve hours of battery life. It is foreseeable that this type of batteries should be extended to other brands. A new range, more expensive. The price of ultraportables has also increased, punctuated with larger screens and better components. The paradox is that before the boom in netbooks, those already sold on the market at prices higher than the 1,400 euros. Its crunch had led to a very small market niche.

After the commercial success, maintaining the ultra cheap, between 200 and 300 euros and use the designs as complete as pioneers, because they are still based on web applications and are equipped with basic programs for any average user. This offer has meant that conventional laptops, which have reduced its market share, it is also cheaper, especially in the United States where tenders have been launched from 131 euros for a basic HP. Nevertheless, there is a new price range, between 400 and 600 euros, which several manufacturers choose to provide higher quality and performance of their teams, with larger screens, faster processor and a superior ability to hold data on their hard drives. In this segment there is a model in the range HP Mini 5101, with a hard drive to 250 gigabytes, 10.1 inch screen and Windows 7 Starter, or the Toshiba NB200-12P, also with 10.1 inch screen and whose autonomy exceeds nine hours, according to their data.

Notebook: From Linux to Windows 7

Windows 7 has a special version, called Starter, adapted to the characteristics of these devices. Another change occurred in this time has affected the operating system. Although Linux distributions that manufacturers adjust their devices work seamlessly with all the benefits, they also distributed ultraportable equipped with Windows XP, which works well in these devices. The reduced hardware power equipment plays down veteran of this version of Windows. Microsoft has turned to this segment to not neglect its dominance in the market and has lowered the price of their licenses in exchange for that equipment does not exceed a gigabyte of RAM. Moreover, unlike Vista, Windows 7 has a special version, called Starter, adapted to the characteristics of these devices. The main drawback of the version is the limit set by not allowing to open more than three programs at once.

Developments take place in the world of ultraportables. These include the introduction of new Linux distributions tailored to the characteristics of these computers. For relying on the free operating system by default, all have a repository of free programs increasing, with flagships such as Firefox, Open Office or the GIMP image editor. Since these machines were configured as an alternative cheap and transportable, have distinguished themselves by placing direct links to the desktop Web applications. In this way, management is carried out more on the server-side user, so the machine does not have to be very powerful. Google is preparing to distribute in the second half of 2010 its own operating system for these devices, the Google Chrome OS.

This is one reason why Google, a major driver of web applications, ready for distribution in the second half of 2010 its own operating system, Google Chrome OS. This works with several major manufacturers of netbooks, which will include the operating system in some of their equipment, but can be downloaded for free and run on any computer. It is based on Linux and has already released the source code of the system. More advanced users can test the foundation on which Google works, which prima-owned web applications such as Docs, Picasa, Calendar, Reader, YouTube and Gmail, managed from its browser Chrome. So far, highlights a limitation: the user can not install applications on your computer, everything has to be on the web.

Notebook: Ubuntu and Jolicloud

Ubuntu, the distribution that has earned home users of Linux, has also released a version tailored to the characteristics of these teams, the Netbook Remix, which carries the usability of Ubuntu desktop feature format of ultraportables, with an environment adapted to the smaller size of the screen. The Jolicloud operating system users can add each other as friends and see what else you install software. Jolicloud, which is based on Debian and Ubuntu work introduces interesting new features, such as the timing of the applications through their servers, so that they can manage several computers with updated user data. Another novelty is that try as a second operating system installed, much like what Linux has done in conventional computers.

Thus, the user does not need to uninstall the Windows of its ultraportable and win in comfort. This approach is confirmed by the presence of Wine, a program that allows Windows applications designed to run on Linux without problems. It also has a social component. The operating system users have direct access to sites like Facebook and Twitter, among others, and you can add as friends to each other and see what software you install another person, presented as if the news page of Facebook. The commitment to the social factor is common to Moblin, which includes this type of user information in a desktop that behaves as a home page for all social networks, with data from Twitter and Last.fm combined with the personal agenda user. This operating system runs on netbooks with Intel Atom.

Notebooks and ultraportables: Nokia breaks into this segment

By their nature, are very attractive ultraportables to access the data networks of mobile operators as people travel. For this reason, manufacturers of computers, common suppliers of this equipment, try to be compatible with all USB 3G modem. The operators themselves have opted for different models of netbooks and integrated them into its distribution system terminals. Nokia, a leading mobile phone manufacturers, has decided to make an ultraportable, the Booklet.

These devices are sold at lower prices in exchange for the user to sign a contract to stay with a flat rate data for a time sufficient to offset the cost difference. Nokia, a leading mobile phone manufacturers, has decided to make an ultraportable, the Booklet, which works with Windows 7, in the limited version or Starter Home. It has integrated 3G modem speeds up to 7.2 megabits per second download, a 10.1 inch screen and promises up to 12 hours of battery use battery. This shows that this market segment can have different characters to traditional computer manufacturers. Even the manufacturers of electronic book readers like Amazon or Papyre, could increase the performance of their equipment to match in some respects to be ultraportable and choice to users.