Eulogica Ltd
16/03/2009 3:19 pm
Laptop computers have become incredibly popular over the last few years, but very few of these machines have found their way into the Funeral Profession...
Often people are under the impression that a laptop computer, while portable and convenient, would be incapable of offering the same computing experience as a desktop computer.
If you have used one of the recently produced laptop computers, you have probably noticed that they have come a long way in recent years. Thanks to new technologies, modern laptops are indeed capable of offering the same as a desktop computer - often even more. The size difference between a desktop and a laptop no longer has any bearing on the performance capability.
Benefits of Using a Laptop Computer
- Identical Features to the Desktop Model: The basic operational features that exist in a desktop computer are also present in a laptop computer. This includes features such as Internet access, email capabilities, ability to run administration software, office suite software, etc.
- Compact Design and Portability: Laptop computers are compact in design and are very portable which allows you to work from virtually any location. This can be useful if you spend much of your time outside the office or if you are at home on call. They can even function on batteries for many hours.
- Bluetooth Technology: Bluetooth technology provides wireless capability for external devices known as peripherals. The wireless technology eliminates any need to carry around extra cables simply for the purpose of connecting the external devices. Bluetooth external devices include devices such as headsets, speakers, telephones, mice, keyboards, printers, and GPS devices.
- Wi-Fi Capability: Laptop computers are equipped with Wi-Fi technology which is an abbreviation for Wireless Fidelity. The primary benefit of Wi-Fi is that it allows the laptop user to connect to the World Wide Web, or even to your office, from any public wireless access point. A subscription might be required for the wireless access.
A laptop computer with Wi-Fi capability can automatically find the nearest public Internet access point and easily connect to the point. Now you can even get 3G devices which provide almost complete national coverage. This means that you will never be without Internet access while on the road.
- Mobile Entertainment: Laptop computers are capable of providing state-of-the-art mobile entertainment that enables access to DVDs, videos, photos, and games with the click of a button.
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Synchronisation: You can synchronise data between your laptop computer and your desktop computer. For example, if you have an address book on your desktop computer, you can synch the address book with your laptop computer as well as other mobile devices. With some funeral management systems you can enter funerals to your laptop and synchronise with your office computer later, or vice versa. This also provides a way for you to backup your data - keeping copies in several places.
Laptop Computer Drawbacks
If you currently own one of the recently produced laptop computers then you are aware of the benefits. But if you were to consider some of the drawbacks, they may include:
- Price: The price of a laptop computer often exceeds the price of a desktop computer.
- Physical risk: The compact size of a laptop computer increases the risk of your computer being stolen, dropped, or perhaps misplaced. If the laptop is lost or stolen, data could be lost or even end up in the wrong hands. Talk to your IT supplier about taking adequate security measures.
- Reduced Keyboard Size: If you have large fingers, you may find that the keyboard is inconvenient to use and that typing accurately can be difficult.
- Reduced Screen Size: Some laptop users find that the reduced screen size creates difficulty, and the viewing angle can be uncomfortable over time.
- Mouse Touch Pad: Some laptop users find the mouse touch pad to be inconvenient and difficult to use, as well as the mouse trackpoint feature if there is one.
With a laptop computer you can always attach an external mouse, an external keyboard and even an external screen if you use it mostly in one fixed place.
Whether you are already using a laptop computer or you are considering purchasing one, you will find that a laptop computer can provide great mobility and convenience if you are happy to live with a few compromises!