Shopping for a notebook computer? Here are a few things to look for when you're considering the options.

Step 1: choose your screen size
Step 2: look for mobile processors and wireless capability
Step 3: decide how much memory and hard drive space you need
Step 4: add the right accessories

Step 1: choose your screen size

Notebook PCs (also known as laptop computers) feature LCDs that use active matrix technology (also called Thin Film Transistor, or TFT) to create bright, crisp colors and a fast refresh rate. TFT comes in three formats:

XGA (Extended Graphics Array): 1024 X 768 resolution (786,000 pixels)
SXGA (Super Extended Graphics Array): 1280 X 1024 resolution (over 1 million pixels)
UXGA (Ultra Extended Graphics Array): 1600 X 1200 resolution (nearly 2 million pixels)

The size and quality of the screen is one of the biggest factors in a notebook's price, so carefully consider your needs and balance them against your budget.

If you want the freedom to roam around the house, go down to the local coffee shop, or take an occasional business trip, a notebook computer with a 15” or 17” screen is the way to go. These make great replacements for desktop PCs, and many feature widescreen aspect ratios, similar to many LCD and plasma TVs. This wider aspect ratio is perfect for watching DVDs and working on multimedia projects. The larger screen will be more comfortable for daily use, but will make your notebook computer heavier and may drain the battery faster.

A smaller, lighter notebook computer is great for frequent travel, or as a companion to your desktop model. Weight will be crucial if you are toting your notebook around campus or through airports every day. Versions with 12" or 13" screens can weigh as little as four or five pounds. The smaller display may not be as easy on the eyes, but your notebook case will be much easier to carry.

Step 2: look for mobile processors and wireless capability

Mobile processors such as the Intel Pentium M and AMD Sempron offer more power in a smaller package as well as longer battery life. Some processors even determine which parts of your PC need the most power and shut down the ones you're not using. These power-saving features are especially helpful when you're on the road and don't have access to an outlet.

Most notebook computers also come with built-in wireless capability, perfect for getting online when you’re not at your desk. You'll find public-access hotspots in places like college campuses, coffee shops and airports. You can even create a wireless network in your home and check email in the living room or browse online recipes in the kitchen.

Learn more about processors: Choosing a processor

Step 3: decide how much memory and hard drive space you need

Random Access Memory (RAM) is the working memory in your PC. After the processor, RAM is the second biggest factor in overall system speed. As your computer runs programs and works with data, it uses RAM to process the program information. The more memory you have, the faster you will be able to load, print and download your files. To play games or surf the Internet you'll want to start with at least 512MB of RAM. Consider upgrading to 1GB of RAM if you multi-task or work with large files.

Need to know more about Random Access Memory? Look into: The Importance of RAM.

The hard drive provides storage for your computer's programs and frequently-used data. Most hard drives today are rated in gigabytes (GB). Not to be confused with RAM, your hard drive is permanent storage for your data. Programs, images, music files and data take up a lot of space on your hard drive, so make sure you start with plenty of room. If you plan to use gaming software or multimedia applications, you'll want the largest hard drive that fits your budget.

Learn more before you choose: Getting the right hard drive.