Netbook computers have been steadily growing in popularity since they were recently introduced to the market. Netbooks are currently among the top five selling laptop computers on Amazon.com. The demand for a portable, affordable computer with features comparable to the traditional laptop is helping to fuel the success of the netbook computer.
Netbooks are Mini-Laptop Computers
A netbook is a mini-laptop computer designed for mobility and ease-of-use, featuring wireless Internet capability and word-processing applications. Netbooks weigh between two to three pounds and have a screen size ranging between six to ten inches. Netbook computers are extremely affordable, with prices averaging between $300 - $500.
Because of their small size, netbook computers are ideal for people on-the-go who want Internet connectivity without the need to carry a larger, heavier full-sized laptop. Netbooks are generally not meant to replace the the more powerful laptop computers, but rather to act as a portable alternative. Netbooks are especially useful companions for students and frequent travellers.
Netbook Computer Uses
Netbooks have a wide variety of applications, and are being used for business, entertainment, and communication. Popular uses include contact, calendar, and task management, blog posting, surfing the internet, listening to music, and sending e-mail, IMs, or making VoIP calls using Skype or similar software.
Netbook Computer Manufacturers
Many manufacturers offer netbook computers. The most popular netbook manufacturers include: Asus, Acer, Hewlett Packard (HP), Dell, Sylvania, Lenovo, MSI, Samsung, and Sony.
Netbook Computer Operating Systems and Technical Features
Netbooks currently run Windows XP Home Edition or a Linux-based operating system. Microsoft has recently announced plans to replace Windows XP on the netbook when they launch Windows 7 in 2009.
The following specs are fairly standard for most netbook models:
- Screen resolution 1024x600
- Intel Atom CPU at 1.6-GHz
- Wi-Fi B and G
- Ethernet at 100Mbps
- Slot for a flash RAM memory card
- External VGA output jack
- Integrated graphics
- Two or three USB ports
- Built-in camera
- Headphone and microphone jacks
Future of Netbooks
Consumers can expect continuing growth in the popularity of mini-laptop computers, at least in the near future. Netbooks will increasingly become more powerful, with newer models featuring increased RAM and larger hard drives.
As netbooks specs continue to climb, however, there is some speculation that the line between the netbook and the notebook computer will become increasingly blurred.
There are questions as to whether netbooks will continue to remain a seperate category from fully-fledged notebook computers, or will end up becoming obsolete as consumers demand higher media and graphics capabilities than the netbook can deliver. For now, netbooks remain an affordable alternative on the PC market.
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