Laptop Buying Guide 2007

What use? What Budget?

The first thing to determine before buying is the future use of a laptop. In cases tighter budgets, this requirement is difficult to meet but we must always bear in mind the fact that a portable can hardly be updated materially speaking! The proper assessment of its needs depends sustainability of the purchase!. The budget will be determined by practice (and not vice versa!). The following sections present different important points for the purchase of a laptop to better understand your needs.

The important points in a laptop

It is a key component of the machine as it makes the main calculations and greatly determines the speed of the laptop but also his warm and autonomy. The processors tailored to the constraints of a mobile usage operate at frequencies often relatively small.This does not always provided they are not very effective ... Among current trends, it should be noted the influx of dual-core processors. These include two processors in one, and are particularly suited to the multitasking.
The models on the market are as follows (in ascending order of performance).

Intel Celeron M processor entry level especially recommended for use (very) simple. That does not prevent it from being a good choice for those who want a portable dedicated to the office and the surf.
AMD Sempron M: Concurrent performance equivalent to that of the Celeron M, it is now quite rare ... recommandable. And not necessarily advisable.
AMD TurionX2: A dual-core processor for entry-level segment.His performances are slightly less stringent than the Core Duo equal frequency but its price is lower.
Intel Core Duo: A correct choice, the Core Duo is also under the name Pentium Dual Core. His performances are close to those of TurionX2 ...! Briefly, double heart, but the entry level all the same!
Intel Core 2 Duo: The best processor of the moment. Note that the Core 2 Duo in the series T7xxx are more powerful than those in T5xxx. In short, to the extent possible, preference range models T7xxx, especially those equipped with 4 MB L2 cache, which are the most effective.

In general, the processor market evolves constantly and appellations are many, do not hesitate to seek advice on the forum.

The memory (RAM)

The RAM is used to store the data being processed by software. It is advisable to opt for 1 GB (strict) at least with Windows Vista, which allows use relatively varied. The most demanding in terms of performance will choose to 2 GB or more. The ideal is, in addition, to opt for a laptop with a frequency of the memory is the highest possible.
A laptop generally has two slots (slots) for the RAM. Unfortunately, many manufacturers mount two barrettes (two strips of 1 GB is cheaper only 2 GB). This trivial problem when changing to a larger capacity. It is then necessary to replace at least one of the two bars! That said, on many portables, use two identical cards can take advantage of Dual Channel, which provides a very slight gain in performance.

The graphics card

The graphics card processes the video data for the display. For games, it is calculated 3D effects. It should be noted that in order to have all of the 3D effects of the interface of Windows Vista graphics solution minimal performance is required (bare minimum: X3100 chipset Intel or AMD (ATI) Xpress 1200 with at least 128 MB of shared memory). Can be divided into two categories graphics solutions for the portable as described below.

The integrated video chipsets shared memory: To mark Intel, Via, Sis ... They are not intended to play, but adapted for use not requiring 3D (office automation, video playback, photo editor ...).
Graphics cards: There are all kinds of models nVidia or AMD (ATI). For use requiring little, a map using technology HyperMemory or may suffice TurboCache (a portion of the video memory is built into the card, RAM is used when needed). For players intensive, it would be wiser to opt for a graphics card dedicated memory. To play in conditions honest, it is now recommended to opt for at least nVidia GeForce Go 8600M GT. Note that having a powerful graphics card would result in a decrease of autonomy.

As it is not only the video games in life, the manufacturers of graphics cards have also developed specific models dedicated to heavy applications such as 3D CAD and 3D animation. In this category models, and may include nVidia Quadro in the series.
Similarly, manufacturers have also developed graphics cards specifically oriented and multimedia, such as HD HD series of AMD (ATI).
In general, the graphic card market evolves constantly and appellations are many, do not hesitate to seek advice on the forum.

The screen

Two formats are available: the screens 4 / 3 and 16/10 large monitors. They are very present in the market and a pleasure to use, but can cause problems with some games.
A screen with a low pixel resolution will clearly visible. By contrast, high-resolution screens require to have good eyes, the characters being displayed quite small. The definitions used are WXGA (1280x800) for large monitors 15 "and 4 WXGA + (1440x900) for large monitors 17", which is very satisfactory in the majority of cases. Otherwise, high resolution, it will seek WXGA + (1440x900) for the 15 "and 4 WUXGA (1920X1200) for the 17".
Today, almost every screen models general public have a filter brilliant (DiamondView, X-black etc ...) which improves the contrasts ...But generates reflections!
It should be noted that the dead pixels (dots of light sets) are becoming increasingly rare. Yet it is sometimes possible to subscribe to a security "zero defective pixel."
In the news department, welcome the appearance of top models, backlit LED lighting whose life is superior to that of conventional backlit lighting. Other advantages of this technology a much higher brightness and lower consumption ... Damages whatsoever, for the moment, and especially rare (very) expensive!

The hard drive

The hard disk stores all data for the system as well as personal data.A hard disk of 100 GB can be regarded as a minimum. The need for size is bound to use your word, you see if you need a lot of space or not!
One very important aspect is the rotational speed of the hard drive. It is preferable to opt for a model 5400 rpm or 7200 rpm with a cache memory of 8 MB minimum. Ideal for applications "greedy" as video games or the video is to have a disk with 16 MB cache ... But it is rare and a bit more expensive!
It should be noted that a whole new generation of hard disk will gradually enter the market (for the high-end on models rather dedicated to mobility presumably). This new generation, called DSS, combines the use of a disc traditional flash memory (a type of memory used in USB memory keys, for example) with the advantage of improved access time while reducing power consumption , noise and fragility. Unfortunately, for the moment, these discs have only limited capacity and are very expensive!

Connectics

It is essential to have taken at least three USB2 (connecting numerous devices), an Ethernet (network), a VGA output (display on a monitor or projector analog), a PCMCIA slot and / or Express Card (see 2.1 .3), a headphone and microphone input.
It is also recommended that you have a Firewire (called IEEE1394 or i.Link among some manufacturers: for connecting multimedia devices such as hard disks, cameras ...), an S-video (on display analog TV or projector) , a flash card reader multi-format (useful for digital cameras) and an audio output line (to plug into an amp external analog). Finally, not essential, but welcome, a DVI (screen display or digital projector) even an HDMI (screen display or projector digital HD ... attention to the version of the standard. All appliances did not necessarily the same version of this standard ... and versions are not compatible with each other) or a digital optical audio output (for connecting an amp digitally).

The wireless

The standard is the most widely WIFI for the creation of wireless networks. The Bluetooth is useful to communicate with modern phones. The infrared can be used with many PDA and mobile phones and can be helpful to steer the portable distance with a small remote control.
Coming back to WiFi, it is now installed on all configurations on the market. Several standards exist, in particular

802.11b: The oldest widespread but with a theoretical throughput of 11 Mbps
802.11g: Faster and fairly widespread with a theoretical throughput of 54 Mbps

Debits are announced theoretical rather rely on a flow divided by 2 in reality and yet it depends on the nature of the environment (walls, attendance disturbance ...) not to mention the scope of anywhere from a few metres some hundreds of meters depending on the environment. It is very important to secure their Wi-Fi network. Latest developments in the WiFi, 802.11n whose theoretical throughput is much higher (540 Mbits / s for an actual flow in the order of 100 Mbits / s) but is beginning to appear in a "temporary", standardization official 802.11nn 'is not yet ready!
Finally, it should be noted that new communication standards (Wimax, Bluetooth 2, Wireless USB ...) are beginning to talk about it, even though it is still early to cross regularly. Similarly, some portables include a facility to operate an Internet access via a 3G subscription provided by some cellular phone carriers ... ce qui, pour le moment, revient très cher. What, for the moment, is very expensive.
Wireless systems are very voracious energy if they are not in use, be sure to turn them off in order to save battery life. It was interesting to have a button on the hull of the laptop directly to disable these functions.

The pointing devices

On the one hand there are the trackpoints, kind of small peg in the centre of the keyboard used on certain mobile pros. Some models include scrollbars which is a non-negligible advantage. The size and surface touchpad are very important points: short, the ideal is to try it.

The keyboard

Some brands use keyboards soft to the touch, other keyboards strongest. In short, the ideal is to try the keyboard of the laptop. Pay attention to uniformity in the depth of the keys some keyboards smudged being erratic. And it is always annoying to have to press harder on this or that affects ...
Although convenient for those who use many figures, some models include a keypad (especially on models 17 "although more than 15" are endowed by 4).

The burner

It should be a model multi-format as fast as possible can burn double-layer DVD. We note the arrival of new types of drives capable of accepting HD-DVD or Blue-Ray ...But, indeed, for the moment, they are expensive for a utility that remains to be seen. Indeed, at the moment, nobody can say what format of HD-DVD or Blue-Ray will prevail. And since there is not yet any reader or burner hybrid (allowing playback or burning of the two formats) it is perhaps urgent ...! Wait!

The battery

Plus it has cells, more autonomy will be high ... mais plus le poids sera important it is therefore a history of compromise. The maximum is usually, for the moment, an average of 2:30. It should be noted that some business models can be equipped with two batteries (one taking the place of the removable drive, for example). Attention also fanciful figures announced by the manufacturers ...

The sound

Laptops are often equipped with loudspeakers whose quality is zero. Some brands equip their mobile loudspeakers signed by the big names of audio (JBL, Harmann Kardon ...) whose quality can be described as correct without any further. The ideal is to connect headphones or a true hi-fi system from a line out, or even optical digital output. The presence of such connections will be important if you intend to have quality sound.

Congestion and weight

The weight and dimensions correspond to a compromise between mobility and equipment / power. There are several broad categories traditionally computers.

The ultra-portable: With screens 10 "or 12" (see the same 7 "), they have a small footprint and a lightweight. Their small screens / keyboards, makes little pleasure to use ... that is disagreeable sensation sometimes reinforced by their low power consumption components perform poorly.
Laptops: More heavy traditional models in 15 "represent a good compromise between weight, ease of use and price.
The portable compact large screens: These laptops are equipped with screens 13 "3 or 14.1" 16/10 format. These models are barely larger than the ultra-portable but are more comfortable to use.
The laptops to large screens: Models display large 15 "4 are quite close 15 traditional laptops." They are very affordable and highly represented in the general public ranges.
The Transportable: These are really heavy and bulky and therefore are not meant to be transported every day! However, they are ideal to replace a desktop computer.

Namely: below 2.5 kg to 3 kg, included AC adapter, a laptop is truly portable. In addition, a few hundred grams too will be felt very quickly.

Referring to the different operating systems

The operating system is the cornerstone, the base software, the operation of the computer. And it's not just Windows in life ... Below are the current players.

Windows XP: It is compatible with all types of hardware and bundled software is bloated but part of his position as former leader, it is a system vulnerable to viruses (the objective of the latter in General infect up to machines).
Windows Vista: Replacing Windows XP, it has a completely revised. Disadvantage it demands more power than Windows XP to operate. Note that the 3D interface very pleasant works only on computers with a graphics card is correct. On a positive note, however, facing Windows XP: security has been significantly increased.
Linux: Behind this term hide a multitude of systems (distributions) are based on the same basis: the Linux kernel with the reliability and safety are undeniable. Attention, laptops are not always compatible with Linux and hardly ever fitted as standard. For further information, please feel free to ask questions about the linux community forums: they are very active!
Mac OS X: Based on Unix (like Linux) this system is stable and secure. Its use very simple and intuitive added to its elegant interface makes it particularly attractive for beginners and enthusiasts design. The bundled software is not as broad as in Windows, and its presence is restricted to Apple computers.

In summary

To summarize the essence of what has been said above, here in a few words the points which will allow you a quick idea of the performance of a particular model.

Processor: for the performance ...

Basics: Intel Celeron M, AMD Sempron M
Simple: AMD Turion X2, Intel Core Duo
Good: Intel Core 2 Duo T5xxx
High: Intel Core 2 Duo T7xxx
In general, seek advice on the forum.

RAM: for a purpose ...
Standard: 1 GB
Demanding: 2 GB or more

Graphics card: for a purpose ...
3D games without: no matter
With 3D games: nVidia GeForce Go to a minimum 8600M GT
In general, seek advice on the forum.

Hard disk: you need to have at least ...
Rotational speed of at least 5400 rpm
Cache at least 8 MB
The storage capacity is based on usage.

Connectors and wireless: what it takes to a minimum ...

For devices: 3 taken USB2 and 1 Firewire (IEEE 1394)
For the display: 1 taken VGA and 1 S-video
For communications: 1 taken Ethernet and WiFi card 802.11b / g

Autonomy: what it takes to a minimum ...
6-cell battery or more
Do not forget a powerful rhymes with low self!

Physical dimensions: for travel ...

Intensive: ultra-portable screen with 7 ", 10" or 12 ". Weight of less than 1.5 kg
Regular: portable screen with 13.3 "or 14". Weighing less than 2.5 Kg
Occasional: portable screen with 15 "or 15.4". Weighing less than 3 Kg
Transportable with 17 "or more. Weight unimportant.

Brands

Quanta, Compal, Asustek, Wistron, ECS, Uniwill, Inventec ... Are subcontractors who manufacture virtually any portable configurations on the market today. In short, two different brands of computers may well emerge ... In the same plant! Nevertheless, equipment, service, price and quality above all different from brand to brand as a result of specifications more or less strict. Here is a summary of various major brands.

Acer: An average mark some models have a price / performance ratio beat. A mark to be considered for model entry level especially.
Alienware: Models very expensive but very powerful hand (reserved for players) and whose particular design can be seduced.
Apple is one of the standards in terms of quality finishing, soundness and design. Models powerful, compact and highly resistant ...But unfortunately rather expensive.
Asus: Very reputable, Asus models are generally very strong, well-equipped and reasonable rates. In short a mark to be considered very carefully!
Averatec: A brand appeared most recently at home with a range primarily oriented ultraportables.
Compaq / HP: models seriously and offer pleasant but a little intrusive software at HP.The models of professional ranges are very good (HP NX series, NC ...).
Dell: A brand serious of which are quality and configurable at will. The Latitude and Precision ranges reserved for professionals are very good.
Fujitsu Siemens: An average mark but progress is undeniable. Often computers in price / performance ratio very good.
Lenovo (formerly IBM): The reference to the quality of models with dedicated primarily to professionals. The Thinkpad models are also the most suitable for use pro (more robust models that "normal").
LG: A manufacturer best known for its phones or screens that its computers. Models fairly high-end design neat.
Medion: Alternating between good and less good. This mark is represented in supermarkets generalists.
MSI: A manufacturer of computers known in general to be met, such as Asus, portable computing. Many ultra-portable models generally lighter than average.
Nec: Formerly pegged to Packard Bell, the mark is primarily intended for professionals. In all products means.
Packard Bell: A brand average which is distinguished by honorable equipment for the price (bundled software is pervasive).
Samsung: A brand targeted high-end models with neat design.
Sony: A brand-oriented high-end models with very trends. A note, a very good offer software in general.

Other brands: Gericom, Kenitec, Unika, Nitteo, Uniwill etc ... Very good, but sometimes very bad ... It is better to have some computer knowledge to mobile bargains.

The ranges tightened

In general, mobile professional ranges are stronger than their larger audience, but they can not be used on land actually very hostile. The ruggedized laptops are designed to meet this market niche and are able to withstand major shocks, extreme temperatures or in the water. Because of their strengthened hull, they are of a weight and height should not be neglected. As for the price, it is simply unreasonable, especially as they boarded the technologies are often older generations (nothing beats components to the reliability). In short, to reserve computers for the military, site managers, explorers, scientists land ... And found mostly among Panasonic and Twinhead.

Buy Used

We can distinguish two types of purchase. On the one hand, recent occasion where you search a quasi-nine at low prices.And on the other hand, the opportunities oldest especially attractive for their low prices. In the first case, the purchase of a portable hand meets the same criteria as the purchase of a portable nine. Do not lose sight of the original price of the laptop, the proposed bargain price and the price in the new home market of an equivalent model. Often recent occasion is not the most desirable option, the guarantee is already partly gone and the purchase price is close to that of a model nine. Beware of scams origin of the material, invoice and the reason for resale indispensable!
For the first time prices, there is no rule. The important thing is to check the condition of the portable (state of the keyboard, the screen ...) and verify that it works perfectly. We must ensure that the software provided are true because if, for example, the presence of Windows increases the coast of the model sought, it must be said that Windows is legal! As far as equipment, some of the subtleties exist. For example, it is preferable to take a Pentium III rather than a Pentium 4 at the same frequency ... Briefly, it is preferable to come ask questions on the forum to be sure not to make a bad choice. Finally, remember that you can find good new models for less than 500 euros with a guarantee and equipment related to the fact that these computers will be new.

About Environment

It has escaped person that the health of our planet is one of the major challenges of our society today. But until recently, the computing world has been relatively little attention to considerations related to pollution and recycling. Things are in the process of moving today with the application (in France) of the Act on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and (abroad) of the RoHS directive. Specifically the WEEE manifests itself at the moment by the presence of an "environmental tax" and the requirement for any device vendor re-used equipment when purchasing new hardware equivalent. These wastes are transported, assembled and transported to various processing sites where they are cleared, dismantled and recycled for new raw materials (plastics, metals, glass ...).
The RoHS Directive tackles for his part in certain dangerous substances used in our computers such as cadmium, lead, mercury, or the use of brominated flame retardants. In place since mid-2006, it theoretically makes modern computers cleaner and easier to recycle than their predecessors.