Notebook computers, also known as laptops, are small, portable, lightweight personal computers usually with a touch screen, usually with an alphanumeric keypad, and usually equipped with either a processor or hard drive. A notebook computer or laptop is a low-cost, small, portable personal machine with a "rumsplit" type body shape, usually having a thin screen, a relatively small form factor, and generally with an open-case, clamshell form factor. The ramssell type body shape allows for a variety of different types of designs such as flat panels or curves, although most notebooks have at least one pre-set, standard design. Most notebooks have at least one physical keyboard, although some models have a touchpad or multi-touch pad installed.
Notebook computers offer many advantages over desktop computers. The obvious advantage is the mobility; a notebook can be taken with you anywhere, whereas a desktop computer cannot. Another advantage is the size and lack of space requirements of a notebook. For those who work from home, this is an essential feature, particularly if the user has multiple computers (servers) that need to be connected to the same computer.
There are, however, some disadvantages to notebook computers. These include higher costs for software and hardware, longer battery life, less portability, and generally poor quality. Although these disadvantages do affect the overall value of a notebook, they are often balanced out by the increased value of portability. Most notebook computers come with at least one pre-installed software application, usually an operating system like Windows. This software may vary between brands, so it is important to read the user guide or user manual for the specific notebook computer model in order to determine which applications are included and how they are designed to work with the operating system on the notebook.
Notebook portable computers are becoming increasingly popular among students, business people, and those who need portability but still want the benefits of a full-sized desktop PC. Portable notebooks have many of the same functions as their traditional desktop cousins, including word processing, Internet browsing, and gaming. The key differentiator between a notebook and a portable computer is the mobility. Notebooks allow the user to take them where they need to go, whether it is to a public library, the gym, or to see another friend.
Notebook laptops have benefited greatly from advances in battery life over the last couple of decades. Advances in the size and power consuming capacity of laptop batteries have made notebook computers practical for anyone who wants portability without sacrificing the benefits of having a desktop computer. One benefit of notebook computers, particularly for students, is that they are able to conduct research and complete assignments on their notebook while on the run. They also provide students with the ability to learn on their own time and at their own pace. In addition, notebook computers can be used to access the Internet and download files.
The benefits of notebook computers have been recognized by the Department of Defense. The DoD has approved certain types of laptops for use by members of its workforce. Mobile computing can take notebook computers to the next step, beyond the desktop experience. Mobile computing provides access to the same high performance computing capabilities that an individual can find at their desktop PC.