NetBook is the latest generation in personal computing after laptops or so called notebooks.
The Term ‘NetBook’
There were some disputes on the trademark of ‘netbook’, but in short NetBook evolved from the terms Internet and Notebook. Netbook is a device primarily developed for internet and web browsing, but as technology improved, we are in a situation where Netbooks are about to take on Notebooks.
A NetBook is also usually called as a Mini Laptop as it is a smaller version of a Laptop/Notebook.
Why NetBook compared to a Mobile or a NoteBook
NetBook lies somewhat in between mobile phones and notebooks when you see internet browsing as the whole use of it. NetBook runs on operating systems similar to a desktop or notebook computer, but designed to perform much lighter computing operations such as web browsing and emailing. A netbook can also be used to run applications such as Microsoft word/excel or OpenOffice, but cannot be a complete replacement for a NoteBook, to be used as one for high end image editing or for software developement which needs extreme resources.
Mobile phones has limitations on the screen size, where as NetBooks have screen size between 7 to 10 inches when measured diagonally. Compared to mobile phones, NetBooks run common OS’es and can do extra functions other than just web browsing or emailing.
How can NetBooks take over NoteBooks
Initial NetBooks ran on a version of Celeron processor, but the latest Intel Atom 270/280 processor made the NetBooks stronger, capable of performing much closer computing operations as that of a NoteBook.
Future of NetBooks
There are already a good lineup of NetBook manufacturers like AsusTek, Acer, Samsung etc who have come out with NetBooks with good configurations such as upto 160GB Hard Disk drive, 2 to 3 USB ports, VGA port, upto 1GB of RAM(expandable), Bluetooth and Wireless LAN support ! . Also there has been a considerable effort put by them towards enhancing the battery life, since its a major factor on a mobile/wireless device. AsusTek’s well known Eee series has one model – Eee PC 1000HE which has upto 9.5 hours of battery backup. This is a very attracting factor for a new buyer to turn towards a NetBook than a NoteBook, in addition to the price.
NetBooks are priced from under 200$ to even 1000$, but you can settle for a NetBook with a good configuration and bettery backup within 400$ !! Isn’t it cool compared to a 1000$ you spend on a NoteBook?
Things you look at when buying a NetBook
I am working on this section.. Stay tuned !
[…] Considerable research and developments are going on in the direction where some day in future Netbook will be replacing notebooks ! Some of the NetBook […]