Laptops Key Terms

Some basic key terms for laptop computers

By J. Stoltzfus, writer/programmer LOCAL CITIZEN

More and more businesses these days are sending out staffers with a credit card and a vague mission: "Get a laptop." Buying laptop computers has become an art in itself. Also known as notebooks, there are a lot of details to look out for, and there are some basic terms that every buyer should know before stepping into the store. Here are a few of these very critical key terms for looking at laptops for business use and long-term asset management.

Mac and PC

Though many may be familiar with these terms, the abbreviations may leave some confused. The PC is a "personal computer" and stands for all computers that are not made by Apple. The "Mac" is an Apple computer. There are many debates between Mac and PC fans. Many users choose Macintosh for high-level graphic design or superior virus protection, while others choose PCs for compatibility and familiarity in design.
Try: Learn more about the Mac and the PC at TechTarget.

Processor

The computer processor is sometimes called the "brains" of the computer. The processor is the component that drives the calculations and work done by the computer to deliver the results a user sees on the screen. Processor speed and design are very important in choosing a laptop.
Try: See more on the processor at Webopedia. Check out sites like Rugged Notebooks for hints on getting a laptop with a good processor.

Operating system

Here again, there are different options for an operating system. Mac and PC models each have their own types of operating systems, and these get updated frequently by Apple and Microsoft (the maker of operating systems for PCs).
Try: Learn more about an operating system at PC Mag.

Security features

Another thing to think about when looking at laptops is security features. Security features are offerings by software companies that help protect a computer from viruses, malware or other attacks by hackers. Microsoft and Apple have their own security programs, and other independent ones are available as well.
Try: Read up on laptop security from Enterprise IT Planet. Read more at sites like Laptop Security Pro.

Wi-fi ready

A wi-fi ready laptop is one that has a wireless connection card built in so that the user doesn't need any more hardware to connect to a wi-fi network.
Try: Get information on wi-fi ready laptops at HowStuff Works.

Refurbished

Often, the price tag on a new laptop is not what the buyer would have liked to see. For these occasions, a buyer can look at refurbished laptops. A refurbished laptop is a laptop that has gone back to the manufacturer for some reason or another to be worked into a fully functional unit. Because of high refurbishing standards at many manufacturing facilities, refurbished laptops often present a solid and appealing option.
Try: Get a definition of "refurbished" from the Business Dictionary. Find more info about refurbished laptops at this Refurbished Laptop Guide.