Notebooks
Before you decide to purchase a computer, you should think about which type of computer best suits your needs. Some students need to be able to bring their computers with them when traveling or visiting the library or lab. These students opt for portable or notebook computers.
Notebook computers have come down in price making a more powerful machine much more affordable than in the past. However, feature for feature, notebooks are still more expensive than desktop computers and are also more likely to be damaged through everyday use. For safety, notebooks should always be carried in some sort of padded case. Notebooks are also more susceptible to theft, so a notebook should never be left unattended.
Most notebooks now come with a security slot; this is a hole for a Kensington Micro-Saver (which is sold by the NSIT Solution Center for $35.00) or similar lock. These locks work like bicycle locks, looping through the case of the computer and a stationary object; however, a determined thief may be willing to damage the computer's case to steal it. The University of Chicago Police Department has a service for marking notebook computers; contact them for details at (773) 702-8181.
Power
Every notebook can be run from a wall socket with the proper adapter, but battery life is still an important issue. Lithium-Ion batteries have largely replaced Nickel-Cadmium and Nickel Metal-Hydride batteries. Lithium-Ion batteries provide longer life and are more durable than the other types in that they cannot be overcharged. Lithium-Ion batteries also provide higher power for heavy-duty requirements.
Notebooks generally run for four or more hours on a single battery charge, longer than typical notebooks in the past.
Input Devices
Instead of an external mouse, notebooks use different types of pointing devices, such as trackpoint and trackpad. Still, some notebook users prefer to attach an external mouse. You may want to try different styles before making a decision. Also, some users may find that notebook keyboards are too small to use comfortably, so investigate the ergonomics of a notebook before you purchase one.
Recommendations
When purchasing a notebook, NSIT recommends that it have the following minimum specifications:
- RAM: 1GB (2GB for Windows Vista Ultimate)
- Speed: Intel Core 2 Duo (Windows and Mac)
- Hard Drive: 80GB
- Screen size: 13"
- Optical Drive: DVD/CDRW Combo Drive
- Network Connectivity: Built-in Ethernet and wireless
- Warranty: 1 year plus parts and labor (preferred 3 years plus parts, labor and accidental damage coverage for laptops---if available)
This set of baseline features should fulfill most of your requirements in both a Mac OS and Windows environment. If you would like more information about notebooks, please visit the NSIT Solution Center located at 970 E. 58th St., Room 340, or call the Solution Center's toll-free number at 1-800-227-8632. You can also find information online at solutioncenter.uchicago.edu.
Prices are subject to change. Personal purchases are subject to an 9.00% city-wide sales tax. This tax is not included on orders shipped out of state.
