Portable Computer Guide
- 4 Specs That Matter
- Portable Computers for Your Budget
- What Others Are Using
- Shopping Glossary
- Photo Gallery: Portable Computers
- 2009 Portable Computer Guide
- More Computer Articles
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Architecture Guide
Cost vs. Value Report
Good Neighbor Awards
Handouts for Customers
Top 100 Companies
Take a Quiz
30 under 30
Young Professionals
REALTOR® Emeritus
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Shopping Glossary: Ultra Portable Computers
What do all those words mean in descriptions of these computers? Here are some common words you'll encounter.
Atom Processor: A specific type of processor developed by Intel. Its small size and lower power requirements make it a practical component of many netbooks.
Cloud computing: It allows you virtual access to—and use of—software solutions or data resources through a Web browser, without the need to install, maintain, or upgrade applications on your computer.
Compact keyboard: A reduced-size keyboard found on some ultra portables and all netbooks. Although they feature the traditional QWERTY layout, individual keys are smaller and closer together, and some, like function keys, may be relocated.
Linux: A free, open-source computer operating system, bundled with or offered as an option with some netbooks. Versions include Ubuntu and Linpus Lite.
LED backlit screen: A screen that uses light-emitting diode (LED) technology to produce brighter, more vivid images while reducing power requirements, thus extending battery life.
Mobile Internet Device (MID): A growing class of hardware specifically designed for connecting to the Web wherever and whenever convenient; includes smartphones and netbooks.
Solid-state drive: A type of drive that uses solid-state or flash memory to store data. The lack of moving parts, light weight, and low power requirements make them an increasingly popular storage solution for mobile hardware.
Learn More: How Others are Using It ׀ Photo Gallery ׀ Specs That Matter
Michael Antoniak is a journalist and technology expert with a focus on real estate applications. Antoniak also writes about real estate technology at his blog, RealTechTools. He can be contacted at antoniak@dtccom.net.