Tablets, Smartphones, eReaders & Notebooks
Thanks to tablets, smartphones, eReaders, and notebooks, you have a lot of choices when it comes to a portable computing technology. Before we get into the troubleshooting sections, check out the top features you should keep in mind when shopping, so that you can find the device that best suits your needs. As always, your choice will largely depend on your intended use of the technology—likely influenced by budget considerations.
Smartphones
Consider upgrading to a model that uses the most current operating system, which will take full advantage of the powerful technology in your new smartphone.
Some smartphones feature 8MP cameras and glass lenses for improved photos and video. If you intend to conduct video “chats” with family or with business colleagues, be sure that your phone offers a front-facing camera, so that you can view others on the screen as they see a live image of you. Many offer two cameras, one front-facing and one rear-facing.
Check out the built-in apps to see if there are any available on one platform and not another, if that availability would inluence your decision.
Tablets
There are a number of operating systems for tablets, including Android, iOS, and Windows. Test out the different operating systems to see which interface and features you prefer. Give yourself some time; it takes more than just a minute or two to make that decision.
Most tablets include a camera with which it’s possible to take excellent photos. If you plan to conduct video “chats” with family or with business colleagues, be sure that your tablet offers a front-facing camera, so that you can view others on the screen as they see a live image of you. Many tablets offer two cameras, one front-facing and one in the rear.
Tablets come with a limited amount of internal memory. If you need to store a large collection songs, videos, or documents on the tablet, consider models with a larger storage capacity, such as 32GB, to provide space for all the iles you need. Also consider possible ways to add external storage to your tablet. For tablets, these often take the form of wirelessly-connected external hard drives, although some may connect to your tablet via some sort of USB cable.
Some tablets are available with built-in 3G or 4G mobile broadband data connections, as well as Wi-Fi. If you always need Internet access, look for a model that comes with a mobile broadband data plan. (But keep in mind that mobile broadband plans require paid subscriptions.)
eReaders
eReaders are available in LCD (full color) and E-Ink (black and white). If you want to use your eReader for more than reading, such as browsing the Web, you’ll want an LCD eReader. E-ink is generally believed to be easier on the eyes, so it’s ideal for those who plan on using the slate mainly for reading books or magazines.
Some eReaders are also capable of running apps; you may be able to download games or productivity tools that will enhance the value of your eReader.
To let you download books on the go, most eReaders offer Wi-Fi and/or 3G connectivity. Look for a model with built-in Internet access if you want easy access to new books.
Notebooks
For processing power, modern laptops use multi-core processors. The more cores, the better and faster you’ll be able to multi-task.
Many notebooks offer a built-in DVD burner, so you can load media and copy content onto writeable DVDs. You won’t ind that capability on a smartphone, tablet, or eReader.
Gamers should consider a laptop with dedicated graphics memory to provide them with solid performance when playing games.
If you need to travel with lot of personal iles, such as music, digital images, or documents, look at laptops that offer plenty of storage capacity. Many laptops boast 320GB or more of hard drive space. Don’t forget that you can also add easily portable external storage.
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