Ps/2-Compatible Laptops .

In 1991, IBM introduced the first of a family of PS/2 laptop computers that will eventually include between 6 and 10 models. The first release of the new lineup is the 7.7-pound L40 SX, which can use either DOS or OS/2. Since the PS/2 uses IBM's advanced Micro Channel architecture, it is possible to add more functions such as a cellular telephone that will transmit both voice conversations and computer data.

Macintosh Portables.

Apple's first Macintosh portable was heavy and expensive. Its new Powerbook series of three notebook computers is comparable with PC-compatible laptops and notebooks. They are somewhat slower than a desktop Mac, due to the type of screen used, but the display is crisp and clear. All come with a built-in trackball, innovatively centered below the keyboard for ease of use. The most popular model is the 14S, with 4MB RAM and a 40MB hard disk drive standard.

Using Laptops

People use laptops for many of the same tasks that they use desktops — and more. Sales and marketing representatives in business use laptops to gather inventory and ordering information, to transmit orders and reports to headquarters, and to show customers new products and services. Executives use them for a variety of tasks while traveling. Tom Temple, a resident of Seattle, Washington, uses his laptop to aid him in competition sailing with his boat, the Argonaut. On a race from Victoria, British Columbia, to Maui, Hawaii, he used his Toshiba laptop to navigate and track the other boats he was competing with. "I wouldn't go offshore without the computer," says Tom. "I can't imagine not using it. To be competitive, you have to use methods other than the old pencil and paper."

The laptop is just one more step forward in the computer industry's drive to create better, smaller computers. Laptops have made working with computers much easier for businesspeople. Before departing on a business trip, it is possible to transfer the data stored in your desktop to a laptop. And when you return, all the data you created on the laptop can be transferred back to the desktop machine. It may not be long before we see the desktop computer replaced altogether by the desktop "dock" that connects the laptop to a standard monitor and keyboard.

The Palmtop Computer

The palmtop computer is a computer with the functionality of a desktop PC, yet is small enough to fit in your pocket or hand. It is the smallest and lightest of portable computers, and often runs on two AA batteries. The palmtop is often the most difficult to describe as well, for no two are quite alike, and they should not be confused with calculators or organizers with business functions (such as a memo pad, address book, or scheduler). A palmtop computer has its own operating system plus separate, often selectable, application software programs; calculators and organizers do not. Here are two palmtops.

The Poqet PC is a PC-compatible with no moving parts; its software comes in integrated circuit chips that plug in. It comes with a scheduler, word processing, a calculator, an address book, and a communications program. Additional programs, such as Lotus 1-2-3, are available on RAM cards, integrated circuits on credit card – like cards that slip into the machine. A nice feature is the Poqet's ability to "remember" where you stopped your work when you turn the power off, and return you to the same place.

The Hewlett-Packard HP 95LX is an 11-ounce PC-compatible computer with a phone book, appointment scheduler, memo writer, and other features. Most notably, however, it comes with the Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheet built in, making it an ideal computer for the accountant or auditor on the go. It performs all the 1-2-3 functions (including graphics, database, and macros) and can be connected to standard personal computer printers. It can communicate over phone lines with other computers. But more interestingly, it can also exchange data with another HP 95LX, while they are sitting side by side, via infrared beam. The palmtop spreadsheet was so impressive that it was featured on the "NBC Nightly News."

Knowledge Check

1. What is the difference between a special-purpose computer and a general-purpose computer?

2. What is the main difference between a desktop and a portable?

3. What were the first traveling computers called?

4. What was the most important factor in making portables popular?

5. What are the three most popular types of portable computer?

6. In what way might a laptop and a notebook be similar?

7.What makes the palmtop different from other portables?