Wireless Notebook Computers

Wireless notebook computers have widespread uses in today's business and academic worlds, and the future seems to be bent in that direction even more so because of the mobility given to their users. The more rugged ones are in use by repair employees and utility company workers who must take them in and out of their vehicles in all kinds of weather without the equipment suffering damage. There are even screens that can be read in sunlight, which is really helpful to people like electric or water meter readers. The cost of these units is already lower than when they started out, and industry spokespersons say that trend will continue.

Some types of wireless laptops are used by farmers to conduct soil analyses, compare historical data, and control sprayers. There are a number of different kinds of software available to the farmer, ranging from $50.00 to $500.00, depending on his need. Airline pilots use wireless notebook computers to cut down on the amount of paperwork they carry in their flight bags by receiving the information electronically. Law enforcement and public safety officers have also been using the this new technology in the field for some time. Radio waves and antennas make this hardware extremely versatile. One of the latest features that make the wireless notebook computers particularly useful in the field is the new design that uses a touch screen instead of a keyboard. These are used by delivery companies to gather signatures of package recipients electronically, and by businesses like restaurants and post offices.

When the first desktops were brought into the classrooms twenty years ago, they brought with them a mass of wires that were hard to arrange so they would not be a safety hazard. In order for the computers to be connected in a network, all of them had to be connected to a hub that had wires running every which way. Wireless notebook computers have eliminated the unsightly hazard, and replaced it an organized, wire-free classroom. Not only does this change the environment and make it friendlier, it also makes teachers more likely to use computers in more of their classes. There are lessons that still must be taught by teachers and parents that hasn't changed since Old Testament times. "And thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk, and the work that they must do." (Exodus 18:20)

Another feature of the wireless laptops is their mobility. Instead of bringing the students to the computers, as what happened with desktops, laptops can be gathered up from one room and moved to students in another room with little difficulty. There is no need for special furniture, either. This smaller hardware can be placed on a desktop, a student's lap, or on the floor. This frequent movement of equipment produces more true access, and allows schools to buy fewer hardware units and cut its costs.

Any group of computers can be made wireless by using a router and network adaptor for each computer. In addition, some notebooks now come with a module that allows communication between them and other devices, such as cell phones, stereos, or headphones. One thing for owners of wireless laptops to keep in mind when taking the laptop when traveling is that in a hotel or airport there is no security. Other people with the right equipment, who happen to be near enough, can access the system. There are two safeguards available, fortunately. One such safeguard gives a specific physical address or hardware identifier to each device in the network. The operator enters a list of addresses that can use or access the network. The second one requires a shared key between the users, who then use the key to encrypt and de-encrypt data transmitted between users. The second type offers the greatest degree of security. Many major hotel chains are now offering wireless services as a convenience to their patrons.

In addition to the capabilities available to the wireless laptops themselves, there is available a mouse without a wire connection that works with the wireless laptops. Since the surface pad that controls the cursor is slow and inefficient, a separate mouse increases the speed of the operator. The mouse with the hardware maintains the freedom from wires the user is seeking. It is always a good idea to have a stand with wireless notebook computers that allow air to circulate, preventing overheating. No other accessories could really be called necessary.

Any radio transfer or transmission, like cell phones, is not as secure as a wired connection, and that should be kept in mind if security is important. For the majority of people, the above-mentioned security additions will be sufficient to allow them to enjoy the practical and portable conveniences of having wireless notebooks or wireless laptop computers wherever they go. The current trend in America of being in constant touch with family or business associates will continue to grow with this advanced computing technology.

Add to: File Insurance Business article Teen Photo Images