Understanding How Notebooks Use Battery Power
Every time you turn on your notebook computer when you're not plugged in, you use battery life. But how much battery life you consume is largely up to you. It helps to understand which components use a lot of battery energy, and which components don't.
Your hard drive, for example, is a big consumer. So are your CD or DVD drives. The more the notebook uses them, the faster your battery is going to drain. Running programs that are constantly retrieving or storing information on your drive are the biggest culprits. These include playing games, watching videos, or listening to music. Working on documents or spreadsheets don't consume the same kind of power, though features like auto-save, which saves your work to a file every few minutes, can use up your battery power without you even realizing it.
The faster a hard drive can find the information it wants, the less demand you're going to put on your battery. Running a defragmentation utility can help with organizing the files on your hard drive so they're easier to find and retrieve. Defragmentation is a process that reduces the amount of fragmentation in file systems, which naturally occurs over time. You can access the Windows Disk Defragmenter from Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Defragmenter.
Also, if you don't have plenty of memory, your system will resort to using virtual memory to store data while you work. Virtual data is stored on the hard drive, which means your notebook has to access the drive more often while you work. Adding more memory to your notebook or buying a notebook that includes a lot of RAM helps.
A notebook battery also powers the display and all the ports. Bluetooth, wireless, USB, and other ports all use battery power, even if they're not in use. Simply having them enabled is a drain on your system.
Much of the display power goes toward lighting the screen. The brighter the display, the more power it uses. There are displays available now that offer low power consumption with the same level of brightness. If you're considering purchasing a notebook soon, these kinds of power-friendly features can add up to real battery-consumption savings.
Five Tips for Saving Power
There are some simple things you can do to make the most of your battery life. For example, batteries run more efficiently at cooler temperatures. Avoid leaving your notebook in a hot car or working in the sun for too long and always use your notebook on hard, flat surfaces. Pillows and blankets help hold in the heat and make your battery run less efficiently.
If you're using your notebook and your battery is starting to run low, here are five tips to help conserve your battery to let you keep working longer:
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Adjust the screen brightness: Most notebooks give you an option to dim your screen when you're running off the battery. Dim it as low as you can tolerate to get maximum battery life. If you already have a notebook with a low-power display, you're way ahead of the game.
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Use power management software: Most operating systems come with power management software that lets you control how your notebook uses power. Use the default settings for low-power mode or manually adjust the settings to minimize power consumption.
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Disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: If you're not using them, turn them off. They eat up battery power searching for networks or other devices and can chew up your precious power in a hurry.
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Unplug external devices: Everything you have plugged into your notebook, including a printer, external drive, keyboard, mouse, or monitor, drains energy while they're plugged in. The best way to make sure they're not draining your battery is to unplug everything you don't need right now.
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Run off the hard drive, not CD or DVD: That whirring sound you hear when you use your hard drive is the sound of energy draining. But, the hard drive doesn't use as much energy as your CD or DVD players. When battery life is at a premium, you'll benefit from running your programs or accessing your files from the hard drive instead of external sources. In fact, take any DVDs or CDs (or even memory sticks, for that matter) completely out of the drives to save the most energy. These simple tips can save you precious minutes, even hours, of battery life if you implement them early.
Understanding the Power Ramifications of Hibernate versus Shutdown
Unless you turn your notebook completely off, it's still using power. Most notebooks have a state called "Hibernate," or some equivalent. This means that the notebook saves your work into memory, then powers off the display, disks, and so on. It may take a while longer to drain the battery when the notebook is in this sleep state, but it still has to maintain enough power to keep your work in memory and it's a good bet that when you reopen your notebook hours, even minutes later, there will be a significant loss of battery life.
You can manually select to put your notebook into this state, usually through the Shut Down menu. And, your notebook probably automatically puts you into hibernate mode when you close the lid. It can be convenient to use this mode if you're plugged in or simply moving across a room. But, it can be a nuisance if battery life is at a premium. If you want your battery to last, shut the notebook totally down when you're not using it.
Consider Purchasing an Extended-Life Battery
If you're on the go all the time and don't want to have to obsess with power management to get through the day, consider purchasing an extended life battery. If your notebook doesn't offer that option, invest in a second battery. They're not very expensive and can make getting through the work day considerably easier.
That's it for tips on battery life management, with minimal effort, you can keep your system running while on the go and not miss a step.
4) Finding the Perfect Portable PC
Keeping up with mobile technology is harder than ever. Everywhere you look, people have not only just a PDA or cell phone, but usually also a laptop, tablet PC, or other mobile computing device. And now, ultra-portable PCs are available that deliver full-size computing capabilities within a pocket-sized system. With all these options, how do you know which is the right choice for you?
Maximize Your Mobile Lifestyle
These days, all types of mobile devices promise to help you manage both your personal and professional lives from almost anywhere. However, laptops and tablet PCs can still be cumbersome to carry everywhere, while PDAs (personal digital assistants) and smart phones don't often provide desktop capability. This is where micro PCs come in. If what you seek is an extremely compact device that can handle your computing requirements, micro PCs put the digital world at your fingertips.
With their ability to consolidate home, office, and entertainment computing capabilities in a remarkably small form factor, micro PCs such as the Sony® VAIO® UX series PCs provide the perfect balance of power and portability. From just about anywhere, you can be connected, effective, or entertained. Telecommute from the ninth hole, conduct a meeting via the Web while sitting on the beach,1 or build a digital scrapbook while on vacation. It's the difference between mere mobile convenience and mobile empowerment, and it's worth a deeper look.
Desktop Productivity Away from the Office
With its go-anywhere portability and full-fledged PC capability, the VAIO® UX Micro PC adds a new level of productivity to your time outside of the office. With Microsoft® Windows Vista® Business2 and an Intel® Core™ 2 Solo ULV (ultra low voltage) processor, you can access all of your typical office applications, including the Internet and e-mail with attachments.1 A 4.5" diagonal widescreen SVGA display with XBRITE™ LCD technology delivers clean, crisp pictures that make it easy to view and work with business documents and presentations, as well as digital entertainment.
Indeed, working with just about any application is simple with the VAIO UX Micro PC. The VAIO UX Micro PC incorporates years of Sony engineering expertise, from its ergonomically designed keyboard to dedicated control buttons for zooming and scrolling and a stylus that can be used with the LCD touch screen. No matter your preference, the VAIO UX Micro PC gives you the ability to interact with your documents, applications, and media in the way that works best for you. Plus, the biometric fingerprint sensor stores your passwords; just swipe your finger for fast and simple access to applications and secure Web sites.1
The VAIO UX Micro PC also boasts advanced technologies you won't often find on much larger-sized notebook PCs. For instance, the VAIO UX Premium takes PC modernization to a new level by utilizing an SSD (Solid State Drive). Compared to a traditional hard disk drive found in most PCs, the SSD on the VAIO UX Premium launches select applications faster and is more durable (as there are no moving parts). Additionally, the SSD results in longer battery life for your VAIO® UX PC.
Connectivity Beyond the Internet
True mobility is about more than checking email or logging on to the Internet: it's about broad access to the people, places, and resources you would normally access from your office or kitchen table. That's why the VAIO UX Micro PC includes advanced wireless technologies for easy communication on the go, including Wi-Fi a/b/g wireless LAN (Local Area Network),1 wireless WAN (Wide Area Network),3 and Bluetooth® technology.4 And with Sony® SmartWi™ technology, you can easily and seamlessly toggle between your wireless connectivity options.
While these wireless connectivity options give you the means to put the world in your pocket and at your fingertips, the VAIO UX Micro PC's other communications features really help give you the freedom to do more from anywhere. Consider the possibilities:
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Maximize your downtime at the airport, while commuting, or virtually anywhere else with a Wi-Fi connection to use IM (instant messaging) and e-mail.1
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Reach beyond the Wi-Fi hotspots by connecting a Bluetooth®-enabled wireless phone4 or tapping into wireless WAN coverage from AT&T.3
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Use the VAIO UX Micro PC's two integrated cameras and built-in microphone and speakers to hold videoconferences1 and share all the details, down to the hand gestures and facial expressions, from any location with Wi-Fi or AT&T wireless WAN access.
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Use the bundled Bluetooth GPS receiver4 along with the pre-installed Microsoft® Street & Trips GPS software to turn your VAIO UX Premium into a fully functional navigation assistant.
Be Entertained On the Go
Of course, the VAIO® UX Micro PC isn't all business. Just like any other PC, it's also a capable entertainment platform so you never have to be bored again. While waiting at the bus stop or the doctor's office, you can:
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Enjoy your music, videos, podcasts, downloaded TV shows, and more.
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Stay up to date on your fantasy football, baseball, and hockey leagues.1
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Blog, play Sudoku and surf your favorite Web sites.1
The VAIO UX Micro PC is your MP3 player, PDA, and digital camera all-in-one. You can download,1 store, and play back thousands of your favorite songs. Using two built-in cameras, you can capture, store, and share digital photos, or even take part in video chats.1 The VAIO UX Micro PC also includes a fully functional docking station and VGA adaptor, which saves your battery life and provides easy access to expansion ports such as USB 2.0, audio/video, and Ethernet.
Get More Out of Life
As a full-functioning PC engineered for serious productivity from a spectacular, handheld design, the VAIO® UX Micro PC is anything but your typical PC. In fact, with so much computing power consolidated into such small device, you might even say that in many ways the VAIO UX Micro PC is more than your typical PC. You get more performance, battery life, and reliability from an advanced processor and SSD disk. Add in more connectivity from multiple wireless options and communications features. It all adds up to more opportunity to be productive or enjoy your digital entertainment whenever you choose.
Additional Information
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A broadband connection is required along with third party services which may require a subscription fee and other service fees.
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Certain tablet functions of Microsoft Windows Vista® are unavailable with the VAIO® UX PC.
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Subscription with AT&T Wireless required. See www.sony.com/att for complete offer details, price plans, service terms and conditions, and coverage map. Call 1-888-739-VAIO (8246) for service activation.
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Ability to use this Bluetooth® enabled product with other devices may vary as not all Bluetooth devices are compatible.
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5) Wireless Simplified
Why Go Wireless?
You've undoubtedly heard about wireless Internet access -- even if you're not quite sure what exactly the term means. These days, wireless is everywhere, enabling business travelers, harried parents, and even connected teens to send and receive e-mail and surf the Web from virtually anywhere. It's exactly what it sounds like -- a way to get online and do all the things you do from your desktop computer in your home or office but without the confines and constraints of a tangle of wires under the table.
It's not difficult to find high-speed wireless access when you're out and about, or to create your own high-speed wireless network at home. Why would you want to do so? There are several good reasons:
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Convenience: Wireless is easy, mostly because of the lack of, well, wires. If you want to create a home network to share your Internet connection with your family, a WLAN (wireless local area network) enables you to get that connection up and running in just minutes without drilling holes, laying cable, or worrying about complex configurations.
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Cost: With a WLAN, you can share a single broadband Internet connection with family members or coworkers instead of paying extra for multiple accounts.
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Flexibility: Wireless access allows you to integrate many different parts of a business with very little effort. For example, a business can use handheld wireless scanners to track warehouse inventory and update its Web site in real time. You can send and receive important information from just about anywhere.
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Productivity: With a WLAN, a group of colleagues can meet in a conference room with their notebook computers to easily and efficiently collaborate on projects. Your clients can bring their computers and e-mail you files instantly instead of waiting until they're back at their own offices. You can get more done even when you're not at your desk.
Wireless Technologies in Brief
A traditional, wired network creates a physical link between a group of computers or other equipment (such as printers and other external devices) via cables, or wires. It's pretty easy to understand how the size of a wired network can be limiting -- you have to be within cabling range if you want to be part of the network.
When you go wireless, you remove those physical boundaries. With all the benefits of going wireless, you no doubt want to go over the technology involved in getting you there. In this section, you'll learn about major wireless technologies and standards.
WWAN (Wireless Wide Area Network)
You're probably already familiar with wireless networks, even if you don't realize it. Have you ever used a cell phone? If so, you've taken advantage of a type of wireless network known as a WWAN. In a WWAN, your area of coverage is broad. Think about the ads you see for various cell phone providers. They show you coverage maps with dots across the United States and around the globe to demonstrate where you can use their phones. Each dot represents a point on their WWAN. By linking those thousands of points, the cellular carriers create a vast wireless network that spans an enormous geographical area. Great, but what does a cell phone have to do with you and your wireless Internet access? More than you might realize, actually. The notebook computer you've come to rely on can, via a simple SIM (security identity module) chip like the one in your cell phone, gain instant access to a WWAN anytime you're in range. In other words, you can fire up your notebook and get online virtually anywhere your cell phone has reception. WWAN connections are a great choice if you travel frequently for business and need to send and receive files from your computer just as frequently as you use your cell phone to make calls. You'll have almost constant connectivity that works nearly anywhere you go. That level of connectivity can come at a price, though. WWANs generally operate on a subscription basis, and the cost and features vary depending on your carrier and the plan you select. Be sure to conduct some due diligence to make sure you choose a plan that suits your needs.
WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)
A WLAN is significantly smaller than a WWAN. By definition, it's a local area network and can be limited to a space no larger than your home office. Your WLAN can also be extended to encompass an entire office building or even a business complex, but typical WLANs don't span the streets of a city and they certainly don't stretch across the nation the way a WWAN can.
Typically, a wireless LAN uses one of two standards commonly known as Wi-Fi®: 802.11b or 802.11g.
802.11b
The 802.11b standard is the slightly older of the two protocols, and nearly any Wi-Fi compatible device supports it. It takes advantage of three nonoverlapping radio channels in the unlicensed 2.4 GHz (gigahertz) frequency space, which makes it somewhat susceptible to interference from other devices that use the same band, such as 2.4 GHz cordless phones and microwaves. With 802.11b, you can transfer data at speeds of up to 11 Mbps (megabits per second) over a range of approximately 300 feet. Indoors, your network can extend through walls, but the 300-foot range varies according to the building materials used.
You may have also heard about the 802.11a standard, which uses the 5.8 GHz frequency to offer higher data transfer speeds (54 Mbps) than 802.11b. The main drawbacks? Not only did initial implementations deliver less range than 802.11b, but 802.11a technology was not widely adopted overall because the less-expensive 802.11b standard was already widely adopted. Also, the 802.11a standard isn't always compatible with the other wireless standards.
802.11g
The 802.11g standard claims data transfer speeds of 54 Mbps, but most real-world users don't ever actually reach that speed. Even in ideal conditions, you'll probably only achieve speeds of about 26 Mbps -- about half of what the standard theoretically supports.
The 802.11g standard operates in the same frequency range as 802.11b, and the tradeoff for slightly higher data transfer speeds is a slightly reduced range. The good news is that 802.11g devices are backward-compatible with 802.11b, so you can mix the two on a single wireless network. These are the most widely deployed wireless LAN standards.
802.11n
With the growing demand for higher performing WLANs, a new wireless standard called 802.11n is in the works. The emerging 802.11n amendment builds upon previous 802.11 standards by adding MIMO (multiple-input multiple-output). MIMO uses multiple transmitter and receiver antennas to allow for increased data throughput and increased range. With expected data transfer speeds at least four times, and perhaps eight times, the data rate of 802.11a or g products, 802.11n may even prove enough to make wired home networks unnecessary altogether.
Although 802.11n hasn't yet received industry certification, that's not stopping vendors from releasing "draft-n" or pre-802.11n products. The speed increase is a tempting proposition, but because the protocol is not yet standardized you're making a gamble if you purchase 802.11n gear based on the draft version. Not only are 802.11n products potentially incompatible with your existing Wi-Fi network, but draft 802.11n products may not even be compatible with gear released using the final specification.
Extending the Range of Your WLAN
Even if you're not willing to take the risk for pre-802.11n gear for the benefit of greater range, it's possible to extend the range of a WLAN beyond 300 feet. You can do that by adding additional APs (access points) -- also referred to as wireless routers or base stations -- or range extenders to your network. The AP that you add needs to be within range of your first base station; it can then extend the range of your network beyond the initial 300 feet. The more APs you add, the bigger you can make your network's range. Note, however, that you may notice a slight decrease in speed if you extend your network far beyond its initial capacity. You'll definitely notice a decrease in speed if you share a single high-speed Internet connection with more than three computers, particularly if some of those users are power users.
Additional Wireless Technologies
Two additional technologies -- Bluetooth® and SmartWi™ -- offer additional options for extending your world without wires.
Bluetooth® WPAN (Wireless Personal Area Network)
Every once in a while, a group of the best and the brightest competitors come together for the greater good. When that happens, you can get really lucky and walk away with something like Bluetooth® technology, a short-range wireless protocol.
Bluetooth® technology, developed by a consortium of electronics manufacturers who were kind enough to work together and create a single standard, is often referred to as a wireless personal area network because it extends only about 30 feet. It's not designed for high-speed data transfer -- its top speeds are only about 1 Mbps. Rather, Bluetooth technology is about convenience, freedom from wires, and moderate mobility.
You can use a Bluetooth® connection to:
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Send documents from your notebook computer to the printer on your desk without having to connect the cable every time you want to print a one-page note.
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Synch your notebook computer and cell phone so you have the most up-to-date calendar and address book listings on both devices.
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Share information between two PDAs (personal digital assistants).
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Use a wireless headset with your cell phone that allows you to carry on a conversation even with your cell phone in your bag -- or the backseat of your car.
Use of a Bluetooth®-enabled product with other devices may vary because not all Bluetooth devices are compatible.
Bluetooth® technology, like 802.11b/g technology, is already built into Sony® VAIO® T or TX Series notebook computers. In other words, you can connect with compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as wireless headsets, PDAs, cell phones, printers, and other accessories, such as a mouse, without installing any additional software and hardware or using adapters. Toss those cables aside and reduce the number of wires!
SmartWi™ Technology Offers More Ways to Connect
SmartWi™ technology is the seamless integration of three wireless technologies: wide area network (WAN), 802.11b/g wireless LAN, and Bluetooth® technologies. Available on Sony® VAIO® T or TX Series notebook computers, Sony's exclusive SmartWiTM technology enables you to easily hop onto a wireless hotspot, connect to a nationwide cellular network, or quickly connect with other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Using SmartWi technology requires compatible wireless access point(s) and some features, such as WWAN access using cellular networks, rely on Internet services that may require a fee. However, by merging the three main wireless technologies, SmartWi technology cuts the confusion out of expanding your wireless connectivity beyond your home, local coffee shop, or airport lounge. In other words, you don't have to figure out where you are and how to get online -- it'll just work as it should.
Comparing Wireless Technologies
The following table shows what WWANs, WLANs, and WPANs can and can't do for you.
|
Network Type |
Pros |
Cons |
Best for |
|
WWAN |
Available anywhere on a cellular network; high-speed data transfer |
May require long-term contract |
Business users who need consistent connectivity on the go |
|
WLAN |
Allows flexible mobility within a set space; free hotspots can keep costs down |
May not always be available on the go |
Prosumers who typically work in an office or from home and occasionally travel on business or for pleasure |
|
WPAN |
Clears office clutter; increases productivity |
Not designed for large transfers |
Home or office users who want to clear cables and connect to multiple devices in a small space |
Table 1-1: Comparison of the pros and cons of WWANs, WLANs, and WPANs.
Make Your Wireless Connection
As wireless technology has matured, it's become easier than ever to take advantage of wireless connectivity. If you've recently purchased or are considering purchasing a new notebook computer, chances are that it includes built-in technology to access Wi-Fi® WLANs. Increasingly, notebook PCs include Bluetooth® technology, and some higher end models even integrate the technology necessary to access WWANs, provided you secure a wireless access contract with the appropriate provider.
Even if you have a notebook PC that's a few years old, it's likely that you can install a wireless NIC (network interface card) with a built-in Wi-Fi antenna. Bluetooth adapters are also available. The technology isn't just limited to notebook PCs, either; the same adapters can be installed on a desktop computer without built-in wireless technology. These are available for purchase at your local electronics store. Just make sure that you know the make and model of your computer so that you purchase the proper adapter.
To create a WLAN in your home or office, you'll also need the following in addition to a wireless-enabled PC:
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High-speed Internet access, such as cable or DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), and the appropriate modem.
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A wireless base station or AP. Wireless base stations often also serve as a wireless router, which you can use to bridge between wired and wireless devices sharing your network.
Once you have all of the necessary equipment, here's what you'll do:
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Plug your broadband modem into the wall outlet, either into the phone or cable jack as necessary.
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Plug your wireless base station into the modem. You'll probably have to run a short installation -- each base station has its own software, but you shouldn't have to do much more than name your network and give it a password.
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If your wireless base station is also a router or hub, plug in any wired computers, such as a desktop that's close by.
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If necessary, install the appropriate wireless cards in the appropriate ports or slots on your machines. If your PC includes integrated wireless technology -- and most notebooks purchased within the last year or so do -- there's nothing additional to install.
After you connect the necessary equipment, the process to connect to the wireless world is only a few steps away:
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Turn on your wireless device.
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In Windows® XP operating system, look in the system tray (the area in the bottom right corner of your desktop, usually where the clock appears) and locate the icon that looks like a little computer with three waves coming out of it.
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Right-click the icon and select View Available Wireless Networks.
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When you see the list of available Wi-Fi access points, look for the name of your home's access point (also known as an SSID).
Public hotspots are generally unsecured so users don't need an encryption key to connect to the hotspot. Narrow down the list by looking at the options labeled "unsecured."
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After you've selected the right SSID, click Connect. The word "Connected" should appear next to the SSID in the Wireless Network Connection window.
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Close the Wireless Network Connection window. You can check your connection at any time by double-clicking the wireless connection icon in your system tray.
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Now that you're connected, open a new Internet browser window. You're all set to surf the Web, send and receive e-mail or instant messages, and access online content, such as music and video.
Access on the Go
To take advantage of public or subscription-based wireless hotspots, you need the same wireless technology that you use for your home network. If you're lucky enough to find a free hotspot (search the Wi-Fi-FreespotTM Directory to find a network near you), you should be able to simply log on to the network and use e-mail and Internet services as usual. Just locate the SSID of the network that corresponds to the hotspot provider at that location. At Starbucks, for instance, the SSID is usually "tmobile," because T-Mobile Hotspot is the provider for Starbucks locations. If you aren't sure, check for a sign near the entrance or service counter for information that will help you choose the right SSID.
If you're logging on to a fee-based Wi-Fi hotspot (like the ones at Starbucks® coffee shops and in many shopping malls), you need to launch your Web browser, which automatically directs you to a signup page. You'll enter a credit card number and select whether you want access for one hour, several hours, one day, or several days. Once your card has been accepted, you can surf until your time is up.
Constant Connectivity
If you can't risk the chance that you won't be able to find a Wi-Fi hotspot, or you know you want always-on access to the Internet and your e-mail, you should invest in a WWAN plan that allows you to take advantage of a nationwide network. Most notebook PCs don't yet include integrated WWAN technology, but each of the three largest nationwide cellular carriers offer wireless broadband cards that let you enjoy high-speed wireless access to the Internet and e-mail wherever you go.
If you're interested in WWAN connectivity, start with your current cellular provider, but don't forget that the best deal may come from another company. You'll also have to verify that the hardware you currently have will work with your carrier's network. Finally, you may have to run an installation package or call a customer service line to set up your access the first time you try it out.
Tips and Tricks: Make the Most of Your Wireless Connection
To keep your wireless connections running smoothly, take the time to perform some basic security measures:
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Enforce password protection: On your wireless network, for instance, make sure you have some kind of password protection or other security measures enabled.
When you first set up your wireless network, it defaults to no password and no security protection. Change this immediately or your neighbors can hop on your network and choke your data transfer speeds -- and possibly steal your data.
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Close and name your network: Your wireless base station should have instructions for doing this. When you close your network, people who want to use it need to know it's there and specifically request to join it.
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Change your password regularly: Be sure not to use something anyone can guess. The best passwords are those that use initials from a poem or a song lyric, for example, and that incorporate numbers (try substituting 2 and 4 for "to" and "for," respectively).
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Turn off sharing and require passwords for various actions: This applies to your WLAN or when you're on the go. You don't need to allow everyone in your home to access all the files on your computer. If you occasionally need to move files between machines, you can manually enable sharing. Just remember to disable it when you're done. You definitely don't need to share your files with everyone else at the coffee shop where you enjoy WWAN access.
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Check your signal: Take your notebook computer outside and walk around the edges of your property. Can you still access your network? If you can, others might be able to as well. If you're broadcasting halfway down the block, consider moving your base station into the center of a room.
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Remember that a notebook computer is pretty easy to steal: Keep yours secure with a cable lock and never, ever leave your notebook unattended when you're in public -- not even for a minute.
Beyond security, also consider the impact of wireless connectivity on your mobile devices in particular. Like any other computing process, wireless technology consumes power. If you plan to stay connected for long periods of time, it helps to have a spare battery on hand. Your PC's power adapter is also an essential item whenever you roam. The growing popularity of wireless has led many locations offering wireless connectivity, such as coffee shops, to also provide easy access to wall outlets for their patrons. Whenever possible, plug in so you can keep the data flowing.
That's wireless connectivity in a nutshell. Now that you've completed this brief, you should feel more connected -- but much less tethered -- than you did before. Go out and enjoy your newfound freedom!
6) Get Into the Ultra-Mobile Lifestyle
What Is an Ultra Mobile PC?
We live in a mobile world, where everything happens on the go. Grandparents talk on cell phones, children watch DVDs, and mobile professionals catch up on work -- all from virtually anywhere. In fact, being mobile is almost passé. Now, the buzz is about being "ultra mobile," with a full-fledged PC that can fit easily within your backpack or purse. In this guide, you'll learn how the new Ultra Mobile PCs can make a difference in your life, and how to get started enjoying your own ultra-mobile lifestyle.
Ultra Mobile PCs bridge the gap between laptops and PDAs (personal digital assistants). What gap, you ask? Well, although laptops provide incredible performance, they can be too bulky for truly mobile use (say, during a morning commute or on the sidelines of your child's soccer game). And although PDAs are portable, they often lack the power to effectively use office applications.
Sometimes referred to as "lifestyle computers," Ultra Mobile PCs make it easy to store all of your digital content -- such as photos, videos, and music -- while also providing anytime access to your e-mail and office applications. Key features include:
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Full-size computing: Ultra Mobile PCs give you the power of Microsoft® Windows® XP in a pocket-sized device. And because it's an OS you already know, your applications are familiar and easy to use; plus, you get full access to all your electronic documents, including the Internet and e-mail with attachments.
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Screen size: Measuring between 4 and 7 inches, the display on the Ultra Mobile PC is larger than what you'll find on most handheld PDAs. The screen can also produce amazingly crisp images with brilliant colors and contrast.
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Input tools: The display on the Ultra Mobile PC is touch-sensitive, so it works with stylus input or the occasional fingertip. Typing is usually conducted using an on-screen keyboard, while some models also add the familiarity of a physical keyboard. In addition, Ultra Mobile PCs offer control buttons for zooming or scrolling within your applications.
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Wireless connectivity: Ultra Mobile PCs enable you to connect to the Internet and e-mail from just about anywhere. Naturally, the devices come with integrated 802.11 a/b/g wireless LAN cards, so you can make the most of wireless networks and Wi-Fi hotspots. They also include Bluetooth® technology, so you can easily communicate with Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as wireless headsets, PDAs, or GPS receivers. In addition, some models have WWAN (wireless wide area network) capabilities for sending and receiving data over a service provider's cellular network.
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Multimedia tools: Designed for portable entertainment, Ultra Mobile PCs have the essential tools for your digital world. Some models include built-in cameras for capturing digital photos and video, and others even have a separate camera for video chat. The devices also provide integrated microphones, built-in speakers, and jacks for headphones. For an extra layer of functionality, Ultra Mobile PCs may even include an integrated biometrics fingerprint sensor, adding personal security for your digital files and the convenience of not having to remember your passwords.
Wireless Internet requires a wired broadband connection and/or compatible wireless access point(s). Some features rely on Internet services which may require a fee. As with all wireless products, actual performance will vary depending on environment.
Using an Ultra Mobile PC
With the Ultra Mobile PC, the places where you can work and play have expanded exponentially. You can check e-mail, watch movies, read blogs, play games, and listen to music from almost anywhere. It's just as easy to connect to the Internet from a local hotspot -- at an airport, coffee shop, restaurant, park, or hotel -- as from your home or office. And this PC is compact enough to fit within your pocket, purse, or briefcase.
Requires a wired broadband connection and/or compatible wireless access point(s). Some features rely on Internet services which may require a fee. As with all wireless products, actual performance will vary depending on environment.
Ultra Mobile PCs are designed to be a companion to your desktop or laptop PC, rather than a replacement. You can review and modify documents on the fly, but more heavy-duty tasks -- such as building spreadsheets, presentations, or word processing documents from scratch -- are better suited for your primary system.
Ultra Mobile PCs have exactly what you need to stay connected, effective, and entertained, so why not get more from your time on the go? The next few sections will help you get up to speed.
Communicate from Anywhere
Expecting an important e-mail? With an Ultra Mobile PC, you can check your e-mail -- and work with attachments -- from anywhere. So, you can close a business deal from your vacation getaway or finalize a contract in your dentist's waiting room. It's all a matter of your own convenience. But your ability to stay in touch anywhere doesn't end with email. Ultra Mobile PCs provide a wide array of communication options, including:
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Instant communication: Use IM (instant messaging) and e-mail with an applications you already know, such as Microsoft Outlook and AOL® Messenger. It's easier than "texting" on a cell phone and less conspicuous than a laptop. Plus, you can use VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services like Skype™ to make phone calls using your Ultra Mobile PC.
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Video conferencing: After negotiating a big contract with a new client, why wait to get back to the office to share the good news? With a built-in camera and video chat, you can share every detail with your colleagues, down to gestures and facial expressions.
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Up-to-date information: From the airport to the coffee shop, you can surf your favorite Web sites and stay informed. You can download streaming audio and video content and catch up on the latest e-books. It's seamless when your PC is the size of a paperback novel.
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Easy collaboration: As you know, some of the most important conversations take place in hallways, break rooms, and even the parking lot. Now you can jot down notes during these impromptu meetings so you can share the details with your boss or coworkers.
Travel in Style
Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, having an Ultra Mobile PC in hand means you'll never be bored again. You can entertain yourself -- or your children -- for hours. And you can even be productive during the downtime. Key features include:
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Portable entertainment: This device is more than a portable PC. It's your MP3 player, your PDA, and your digital camera all-in-one. You can listen to your favorite tunes, organize daily activities, and capture photos of family and friends. Even enjoy all of your content -- movies, photos, downloaded TV shows -- in landscape or portrait orientations.
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Size and weight: Who needs extra baggage when traveling? Ultra Mobile PCs eliminate the need for separate gadgets. And the device is so small and lightweight, you won't believe it's a full-functioning PC.
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Digital postcards: Although digital cameras make it easy to capture the sights and sounds while traveling, your storage space can quickly evaporate. Now you can download your digital photos to your PC, and view and edit them on a larger screen. Even better, why mail a standard postcard you pick up in a gift shop? With your Ultra Mobile PC, you can create personalized postcards with your own photos and e-mail them to family and friends before your vacation is over.
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Trip navigation: Ultra Mobile PCs can connect to an optional GPS (global positioning system) receivers via Bluetooth technology or a USB port. You can even use software like Microsoft Streets & Trips for detailed travel information. This means you can plan your trips electronically and eliminate the need for cumbersome paper maps.
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Special features: When you can connect to the Internet from anywhere, you have regional Web sites, online travel guides, and e-books at your fingertips. You can easily update your blog as you travel, take notes for a conference report, and stay in touch with everyone back at home.
Have More Time for Fun
Ultra Mobile PCs put computing power at your fingertips, so you can savor the extra minutes you get to yourself everyday. For example, you can check your e-mail while waiting in line at the bank, or play Sudoku while sitting at the bus stop. Imagine some of the possibilities:
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Ultimate relaxation: Simply synchronize with your primary PC, and you can take your music, videos, podcasts, photos, and TV shows anywhere you go.
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New media on the go: Hear a catchy song in the coffee shop? Now you can purchase and download it wirelessly, so you can enjoy it later.
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The sporting life: Use the Ultra Mobile PC to stay up to date on your fantasy football, baseball, and hockey leagues. You can check scores and stats from anywhere.
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Social networking: With access to the Internet, you can read blogs and update your own.
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Online games: The Ultra Mobile PC gives you more time to play PC and Internet games, using the touch-screen, stylus, or hardware controls.
Tips for Getting Started
Before embarking on your ultra-mobile life, keep the following tips in mind:
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Remember that Ultra Mobile PCs are designed to be companion devices. Your heavy-duty office tasks still require a desktop or laptop PC.
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The small size of Ultra Mobile PCs makes it easy to toss them into your purse or briefcase, where they can easily be jostled around. Disk-drive shock protection can be essential with this form factor.
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A fully functional docking station makes a huge difference -- it can save your battery life and provide easy access to ports for an external monitor or wired Internet, as well as slots for expansion cards, storage device bays, CD/DVD drives, and so on. Your Ultra Mobile PC may have enough features that would make a docking station overkill, but you should still consider a port replicator for convenient connection to external devices such as a full-sized keyboard or a back-up hard drive.
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Integration with a cellular service provider's WWAN network makes the device extremely mobile with the ability to get Internet access beyond standard Wi-Fi hot spots.
The Bottom Line
The functionality and versatility of Ultra Mobile PCs makes them more than a fun accessory. They actually bridge the gap between PDAs and laptops, enabling you to strike a balance between work and play. Now you can access your office applications, use e-mail, and browse the Web, without cramped fingers or aching shoulders. As a result, you can be more productive, informed, and entertained from anywhere.
Why wait to begin your ultra-mobile life? Get started today with an Ultra Mobile PC.
7) Make Your PC Your Ultimate Communications Tool
Overview
How you communicate with other people, especially in the digital age, can take many different forms. Learn how your PC can deliver just about everything you need, all in one place.
Make Your PC Your Ultimate Communications Tool
Whether you're running a business, trying to coordinate a dinner gathering with friends, or just need to check in with the kids after school, communicating with other people is probably one of your most constant and important daily activities. If you're like many people, you probably use a number of different devices each day to place phone calls, send e-mails, or engage in instant message chat sessions.
With today's PCs (personal computers), though, you may not always need all of those separate devices to stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. Your computer is already one of your main tools for accessing and sharing information, and many of those capabilities make it well-suited to handle all of your communications needs.
Using your PC to communicate with the world around you doesn't take a lot of work if you know what technology to use. Whether you want to send and receive text, voice, video, pictures, or other files, all you need to get started is the right system.
Internet Connectivity for E-mail, Instant Messaging, and More
With access to the Internet, your PC becomes a tool for all types of written communication methods, including e-mail, instant messaging, social networking sites and blogs, and even online meeting and presentation applications.
In today's wireless world, Internet connectivity often equates to the ability to access a WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network), commonly referred to as Wi-Fi®. Not only does Wi-Fi technology give you the ability to stay connected outside of your own home or office1, but it's a great way to remove the constraints of a tangle of wires under the table.
Virtually all PCs built within the last few years -- especially notebook PCs -- are equipped with built-in Wi-Fi technology based on the 802.11 a/b/g specifications. That means they're compatible with most existing home and public Wi-Fi® hotspots, such as those commonly found in airports, coffee shops, and hotels. For even greater performance, though, some notebooks also incorporate 802.11n wireless technology. This latest specification of the Wi-Fi standard delivers greater speed and range than the Wi-Fi a/b/g specifications, yet it's backward compatible with existing networks so there's no hassle to connect1.
Although Wi-Fi technology is a great way to stay connected from virtually anywhere1, it isn't the only wireless technology available. For instance, WWAN (Wireless Wide Area Network) technology extends your wireless coverage beyond LAN access networks and wireless hotspots. WWAN technology uses the same wireless network as your cellular phone, so you can access the Internet on your PC in virtually all the same places that your cell phone has service2. For instance, Sony® VAIO® TZ and SZ Series PCs include integrated WWAN technology that can be used with the Sprint® mobile broadband network3, and Sony VAIO UX Series PCs include WWAN technology for the AT&T national wireless EDGE network4.
A third option is Bluetooth® wireless technology5, which is designed to provide interconnectivity between a wide range of personal communication devices, such as Bluetooth-enabled PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) and wireless headsets. Unlike WLANs and WWANs, Bluetooth technology isn't intended to help you get online, but it can help make your communication experience more efficient and enjoyable by cutting the cord between your PC and other devices5.
Note: Bluetooth® technology was designed to interconnect a wide variety of electronic devices and peripherals, so it's extremely versatile5. For instance, you can find Bluetooth technology in wireless headsets that are perfect for hands-free phone calls, or in wireless mice and keyboards that give you more freedom to move around when using your PC5.
With all of these different wireless technologies, you might be worried that switching between them is a confusing maze of software programs, switches, and keystrokes. That's where Sony exclusive SmartWi™ technology comes in. Sony VAIO PCs with SmartWi technology seamlessly integrate WLAN, WWAN, and Bluetooth technologies, letting you easily toggle between your wireless connectivity options.
Place Phone Calls Without a Phone
E-mails, instant messaging, and social networking sites are great ways to stay in touch with the written word, but sometimes you just want to hear someone's voice. Your first instinct might be to grab your mobile phone, but did you know that you can use your PC to place voice calls?
Using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology, your computer can make voice calls around the block or around the world2. You may already be familiar with VoIP by its other names, such as Internet telephony, broadband phone, or digital phone. In fact, many large corporations now use Internet-based phone systems, not to mention the commercially available services from telecommunications providers.
To place a voice call on your PC, all you need is a microphone, an Internet connection, and any of a number of free messaging applications -- AOL® AIM®, Yahoo!® Messenger, Windows® Live Messenger, and Skype® are just a few of your options. Often, voice calls to other computers can be made at no charge, while calls to mobile or landline phones can usually be made for a minimal charge to your account with the provider. You're not limited to only initiating calls, either; most applications also include features that allow your PC to receive calls from traditional telephones.
Of course, if you already have a landline and a mobile phone, you might be curious why you would want to use VoIP on your PC. One of the benefits of most VoIP services is that you can forward your other phones to your computer. As long as you're connected to the Web, your computer will ring anytime someone is trying to reach you. Better yet, though, is the ability to set up a local telephone number almost anywhere in the world. For instance, if you live in New York City but your family lives in London, you could create a local telephone number in London so your family only has to pay local rates anytime they want to hear your voice.
This is a sample of the 'attention' style. Use this style to denote very important information to your users. To use this use the folllowing html: 911 and other emergency service numbers generally cannot be accessed through PC-based phone services. You must use a traditional phone or mobile phone to access 911 or other emergency service numbers.
Talk Face-to-Face, Even When You're Far Away
For those times when even a phone call won't do, the combination of a webcam and your PC can completely change your online communication experiences. When used with any of a number of free video messaging services, such as those named earlier, you can easily see, hear, and chat with family, friends, or coworkers2.
As long as you and the person you're calling both have webcams, video chat goes far beyond a typical instant message session -- it's the next best thing to being there in person. To make video chat easier, many of the latest Sony® VAIO® notebooks and desktops feature a MOTION EYE® camera and a built-in microphone discreetly located above the LCD screen. The location makes it easy to maintain eye contact with the screen and the person with whom you're talking.
Video chat isn't the only use for a webcam; you can also send video clips through cyberspace in the form of a video e-mail. Instead of trying to convey your thoughts and experiences through words, a video e-mail can let you show everyone clips of special events like your vacation or a new baby, or let you deliver a more personal message to celebrate a friend's birthday.
Putting It All Together
With the right PC at your fingertips, you can open the door to a wide range of unique and expressive ways of connecting with friends, family, or colleagues. If you want to reconnect with old friends, share special news with family members, or update business associates on the status of a big project, when your PC includes the right technology it can be the hub for all the ways you want to stay in touch with everyone you know and love.
Additional Information
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Requires a compatible 802.11a or 802.11b or 802.11g or 802.11n access point. Some functionality may require Internet services, which may require a fee.
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Broadband Internet connection required. Some features may rely on Internet service which may require a fee.
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Subscription with Sprint® Mobile Broadband service required. See www.sony.com/sprint for complete offer details, price plans, service terms and conditions, and coverage map. Click the Sprint icon on your TZ or SZ Series desktop or call 1-877-275-VAIO (8246) for service activation. Sprint Mobile Broadband Network reaches over 160 million people. Coverage not available everywhere (see coverage map for details). Requires new activation and one- or two-year subscriber agreement. Credit approval and $200 early termination fee applies. Service defaults to Nationwide Sprint PCS Network, where available, if Sprint Mobile Broadband Network is unavailable. Not available while roaming. Terms & Conditions and additional restrictions apply. May not be combinable with other offers. Device model subject to availability.
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Subscription with AT&T Wireless required. See www.sony.com/att for complete offer details, price plans, service terms and conditions, and coverage map. Call 1-888-739 VAIO (8246) for service activation. See www.att.com for coverage maps and service details. International data roaming services available directly from AT&T Wireless. © 2007 AT&T Knowledge Ventures. All rights reserved.
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Interoperability among Bluetooth® devices varies.
8) Should You Make the Move to the Windows Vista® Operating System?
Since its release in January 2007, the Microsoft® Windows® Vista™ OS (operating system) has been generating a lot of buzz. However, what are the reasons why you might want to switch to Vista from the OS you're already using?
Before you decide whether making the switch to Vista is the right move for you, take a look at some of the new features that take Vista above and beyond the Windows® XP operating system to give you an improved computing, home entertainment, and business experience.
More Detailed Graphics and User Interface
Some of the most impressive upgrades available with Windows Vista include changes to the graphical interface that make for a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing environment than previous versions of Windows. The incorporation of DirectX 10, which is available exclusively for Vista, helps deliver enhanced graphical detail, which should be especially appreciated by game enthusiasts and graphic designers.
One of the most visible upgrades of Vista is Windows Aero™, a new technology that takes advantage of Vista's improved graphics performance to offer a slick, feature-rich visual interface. In addition to new window animations, Windows Aero features an effect called Aero Glass, which makes open windows appear semi-transparent so you can better focus on the content in open windows, rather than on the interface.
Windows Vista also includes two new features called Windows Flip and Windows Flip 3D, which provide a new way to manage the windows on your desktop. Windows Flip provides a live thumbnail of each open window, rather than just a generic icon and file name, so you can quickly identify and "flip" to the content you need. With Windows Flip 3D, your open windows are displayed in a stack that you can scroll through to quickly locate and select the one you want to use. The new three-dimensional feel enabled by these features will change the way you look at and work with your desktop, but keep that using them requires a compatible graphics card and a Premium or Business edition of Windows Vista.
Improved Performance
Underneath the improved look of Windows Vista, Microsoft has also added technologies to improve system performance and promote increased productivity. For instance, Windows ReadyBoost is a unique way to add more system memory to your system with a removable flash memory device, such as a USB thumb drive. Because Vista can retrieve data kept on flash memory more quickly than it can retrieve data stored on a hard disk, Windows ReadyBoost decreases the time you need to wait for your PC to access frequently used applications and files. Additionally, using Windows ReadyBoost frees up hard drive space and internal system memory for other applications.
Similarly, Windows ReadyDrive enables Windows Vista PCs equipped with a hybrid hard disk (a hard disk that also integrates flash memory) to boot up faster and resume from hibernate in less time. This feature is particularly important for notebook PCs, which benefit from improved battery life.
Windows ReadyBoost and ReadyDrive benefit from another new feature in Windows Vista called Windows SuperFetch. This feature uses advanced learning techniques to keep track of what programs you use most often and pre-caches them into system memory. The system can even learn what programs you're most likely to use at different times, so your computer is ready when you are to quickly access programs and files.
Locked-Down Security
User Account Control is a new Vista feature that will allow for more flexibility on a computer shared among multiple users. Not only does User Account Control allow separate accounts that control what Web sites and programs each user can use and install, the system adds an extra layer of security by prompting even administrator-level users to confirm any changes.
Windows Vista also includes as standard many technologies that have recently been released to upgrade Windows XP. For instance, Vista includes Microsoft's latest Web browser, Internet Explorer 7, which features beefed-up security measures to protect your PC when browsing the Web, such as a phishing filter to protect against spoofed Web sites designed to gain access to your sensitive information like bank account numbers and passwords. Additionally, the Vista firewall helps protect you from hackers and viruses, while Windows Defender and the Malicious Software Removal Tool help protect you from spyware and remove potentially dangerous software.
Integrated Search, Media and Productivity Tools
Windows Vista is also designed to help you search for and quickly find the information you want, whether on your desktop or on the Web. With desktop search capabilities, such as an Instant Search box embedded in the Start Menu, searching for files stored on your computer is as simple as using a Web search engine -- you only need to know something about a file in order to find it quickly. You can even same common search terms in a Search Folder to get immediate results whenever you need something lightning fast.
For the multimedia enthusiasts, Vista also includes Windows Media Player 11, the latest release of Microsoft's music and video manager. The revamped software includes a "search as you type" feature to easily find music and videos, as well as a completely new graphical interface for the media library, which you can share over a network with other Vista machines.
To aid your personal productivity, Vista also includes Windows Mail, Windows Meeting Space, and Windows Calendar. This trio is a collection of substantially upgraded or completely new features that deliver improved reliability, security, and performance to help you organize your life and accomplish tasks faster.
How to Upgrade
With its enhanced interface, improved performance, and expanded security, entertainment, and productivity features, you might be wondering how you can upgrade to Windows Vista. Microsoft's Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor will help you determine if your PC is ready for Vista, and it will recommend the version that's best for you. Run the Advisor to get a detailed analysis of your current PC. If your PC isn't ready for an upgrade, look for the "Windows Vista Capable" logo on any new PC or notebook purchase to be sure that your new PC can provide you with the best operating system experience possible.
