| It seems like Netbooks are all the rage in computer | | | | smaller 10 inch screen. For most people, a netbook is |
| news these days. Essentially, these are laptops with | | | | a second computer that can be used on the couch, |
| smaller screens (typically 7 to 10 inches) that have a | | | | at a cafe, or when traveling. A faster computer with |
| small form factor. They are typically meant for | | | | a larger monitor and full size keyboard is used at |
| "lightweight" tasks like web browsing, email and basic | | | | home or at the office to have the best of both |
| word processing and probably will not be effective | | | | worlds between power and portability. |
| for more intensive applications like video editing or | | | | Almost all netbooks come with a 160 GB hard drive, 1 |
| gaming. The main advantages are their small size and | | | | GB of RAM and run Windows XP. Most do not have |
| weight, and their low cost: Many weight only 2-3 | | | | a screen any larger than 10 inches. These are |
| pounds and can cost as little as $200. In some cases, | | | | primarily limits enforced by Intel who provides the |
| you can find them for $100 or less if you also buy a | | | | Atom processors and Microsoft who provides the |
| subscription to a 3g wireless internet service. | | | | operating system. Some netbooks come with a |
| For some people with basic computer usage, a | | | | Linux-derived operating system which runs open |
| netbook can be their primary computer. This will | | | | source software and can the cost of the computer |
| mean some difficulty running resource intensive | | | | lower since a Microsoft Windows XP license is not |
| applications and you will need to be happy with the | | | | necessary. |