What is a Netbook

What is a net book?
A net book is small, internet ready computer that is designed to surf the internet, check e-mail and run Windows applications like Photo Viewer and basic programs like Microsoft Works. Net books frequently run Windows XP or Windows 7 Starter. Net books typically do not run Windows Vista because they do not have the system resources.

Typical stats for a net book.
A typical net book has 1GB memory and about 160 GB hard drive, internal wireless card, a 10" screen, built in web cam, touch pad, USB ports and a media card reader. Many net books on the market use the Intel Atom processor.

Some net books have 2 GB memory or a slightly larger hard drive. Memory is usually DD2 or DD3 and is not expandable. Good net book battery life is 7 or 8 hours.

Limitations of net books.
Net books are small, bare bones systems that will run the installed software but are not intended to run extra programing or be upgraded. Net books do not have CD or DVD drives which means that you can not use them as a portable DVD player.

It is possible to connect an external DVD or CD player using a USB port and Windows 7 allows you to connect to another computer and have network use of that computers CD or DVD (remote optical drive).

The small memory of net books means that they surf the web a little slower than many new desktops and laptops. They still run much faster than computers a few years ago.

A net book is not intended to do much photo editing or run multiple applications at one. You don't have to close only program to open another however net books are designed to do one thing at a time.

Limited lifespan may be another limitation of a net book. Windows and virus protection software install updates on your computer regularly and over a year or two these updates can really add up and eat away at your hard drive. Because the industry is changing and net books are a newer class of computer there really is no way to predict the lifespan of a net book. It is conservative to expect that your net book will be compatible with the technology around it for 1-2 years.

Should I buy net book?
If you are looking for a small, lightweight mini computer to check your e-mail, play solitaire and view digital photos while your on vacation a net book might be a good choice. Most net books are ready to watch Netflix movies, chat with Instant Messenger and some come loaded with Skype.

The battery life on net books is typically very good and the small size means that you can literally carry your net book in your purse.

Should I buy a laptop?
If you work with basic word processing and spreadsheets a net book is appropriate but if you work with database, web design or image editing you should look towards a laptop.

If you have difficulty seeing small type or are susceptible to eye strain you should consider going with something that has a larger screen. You can connect your net book to a monitor but it defeats the purpose of the mini net books.

If you want to watch DVDs or burn information to and optical drive consider a laptop. By the time you purchase an external hard drive you will be spending the same money as purchasing a laptop that has more memory and a faster processor.

If you plan to add software, play games or multi task then a net book is not for you.