Purchasing a notebook computer can be intimidating.To make a sound decision it's important to know how different notebook features contribute to the performance.

Processor Speed:

The rate at which the central processing unitperforms calculations.It's measured in megahertz (MHZ) or gigaherts (GHZ).1000MHZ equals one GHz.

Processor speed is important because it determines how fast your notebook will work.For most processors,the more GHz,the faster your notebook will be.Mobile processor,however,operate faster than desktop processors at the same GHz level.

Installed Ram:

Random Access Memory,or RAM,runs all the open applications and files.It's measured in megabytes (MB) or gigabytes(GB).1000MB equals one GB.

Substantial RAM is a must if you plan on playing games,multimedia files, or DVD movies. Many of today's notebooks have a significant amount of installed RAM (512 can handle just about anything) and feature expandable memory options.

Hard Drive Capacity:

Hard drive space is measured in gigabytes (GB).It determines the collective file size of eveything you can save on your computer - programs,documents,and other important pieces.Today, notebooks come with a virtual grand canyon of hard drive space.Always check the minimum requirements for new software before you install it.

Screen Size:

Screen size is always measured diagonally- not accross-for computers.While a larger screen can effect the way of  a notbook,it will provide more pleasant viewing experience.

Available Drives:

Many of today's notebooks come standard with more than one of the following drives.Floppy,CD-ROM,CD-RW(CD-WRITER),DVD-ROM,and DVD-RW(DVD Writer).The latest combo drives are the DVD-ROM/CD-RW and the DVD+R/RW/CD-RW.with a DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive,you can read files from DVDs and CDs,as well as creat your own CDs,saving files that can be read in a CD player.A DVD+R/RW/CD-RW drive allows you to do those things plus creat your own DVDs playable in a DVD player.

Intergrated Wireless Capability:

This feature allows you to access existing internet network without a wired connection! Integrated wireless notebooks come ready to connect to a wireless router,which communicates a network signal to your computer,.You can set up a wireless router in your home or office,or use your wireless -ready notebook to connect to public hotspots (areas with public,wireless Internet signals).