Laptops were originally designed as niche products to meet special computing needs. These mini desktops distinctively targeted business leaders who are highly on the go. By using laptops, managers can take their job with them and can easily store important data they require for their transactions.

Laptop computers have become very powerful devices that have the ability to perform complicated computing tasks. It is for this reason that laptop computers are now used by almost everybody. A good number of professionals now use laptops to accomplish their job and even students are permitted by the school authorities to make use of laptops.

Looking Into the History of Laptops

NASA used the first laptop for its space missions. The first generation laptops were big portable computers and powered by a mere 340 kilobyte memory. Since these early laptops have folding display screen and portable, historians considered these early laptops as the ancestors of all modern laptops.

As the production of chip technology became sophisticated, laptop computers have become smaller. In 1981 the first book-like laptop computer was created. It includes a small folding screen, an internal modem, and floppy drive. The early generations of laptops also have computer programs installed on their system.

Development and research on computer technology accelerated in the mid 1980s. There was a need for laptops for business and individual use. Since then, laptop computers have become smaller, lighter, thinner and very powerful.

These days, you can put a typical laptop in a small brown envelope. Its weight can also be compared to standard textbook. Most laptops also have mini-hard drives that can store gigabytes of data. Processors of modern laptops have become faster and usually operate with 1 to 5 GB of RAM.

Specialized Aspects of Advanced Laptops

Practically all the standard features of a desktop are available in laptops. Laptops now have fully operating removable gadgets such as DVD / CD ROM drives and burners. They also have hubs for small gadgets such as flash drives, card readers, and mobile telephony devices.

Almost all types of wired and wireless networking devices can be supported by laptops. They have ports available for modem, a network hub, WiFi connection, and satellite connection. These features are extremely useful for professionals, gamers, internetworking, and personal computing.

While videographers and journalists can also use their laptop computer to instantly edit the videos they have captured so they can easily broadcast news through the Internet. This shows the effectiveness of the laptop computer in the quick dissemination of information.

Recent Laptop Innovations

IT companies began to make Netbooks and subnotebooks in view of the fact that high-end laptop computer is too expensive for the general public. These are laptops that can be used for general mobile computing even with limited functions.

By using a Netbook, you can browse Web sites, check email, and carry out tasks online. Though the Netbook have minimum hard disk space they have enough memory speed for convenient web browsing. The Netbook can also be used for online games.

Laptop computer has opened the way for highly mobile computing. With the advancements in computer technology, you will see recent models of laptops with amazing functions.

The Frightening Truth:

Laptops have become one of those devices that is quickly going, and in some cases, already quickly gone from something that only techies or high level business people owned to something that even a poor college student finds a way to afford.  This is simply that our lives become wrapped around these objects.  Think of the cell phone.  Ten to 15 years ago it was again only the techies or important business people that owned a cell phone.  Now even elementary school kids have them so parents can be in constant contact when necessary.

We all have had the moment when we though we had misplaced our cell phone.  Imagine losing your laptop.  Not only is it a fairly significant expense, but think of the data you have on there.  You probably keep a file with account numbers, you have your family pictures stored there, maybe music, movies.  The list is a long one and an important one. 

Therefore, make sure you follow the recommendations in this article on how to protect your laptop.

The convenience of the laptop is obvious.  The computing power and versatility are equivalent to most desktop computers.  With the advent of wi-fi we can be on the internet almost anywhere and be emailing, chatting, writing, surfing the net or shopping, all anywhere in the world.

Here are some daunting statistics for laptop loss from 2008:

Relevant Data Loss and Data Breach Statistics

• 1 in 10 …laptop computers will be stolen within the first 12 months of purchase.
• 97% …of lost and stolen notebooks are never recovered.
• 50% …of organizations reported laptop theft.
• Every 43 seconds …a computer is reported stolen.
• Every 3 days … an information security breach is reported in the U.S.
• 82% …of all PC’s will be mobile devices by 2008, increasing 4 times as fast as PCs.
• 4,425 …laptops reported left behind in Chicago taxis during a six month period.
• 56 million …individuals affected by significant U.S. data security breaches, 2005.
• 1 billion …PC users expected by 2010, up from 660-670 million today.
• 57% …of corporate crimes are linked to stolen laptops. The latest crimes of espionage and sabotage are theft of executive personnel devices to access vital financial or personnel data.

( data source: datarevoke.com)

How Much Does Laptop Loss Cost?:

That completely depends on how you look at it and who is doing the looking….

Personal Laptop:

The actual cost here is the cost of the laptop and if stolen while in the laptop bag (most often this is the case) then you’ve lost all your accessories as well.  Not to mention possibly your wallet, MP3 player, passport (eek!).  Obviously the actual cost of items and the intangible loss of items such as wallets, all your stored music, your passport, etc. are vastly different.

Business or Corporate Laptop:

Here the intangible costs can be astronomical.  We have heard it on the news more than once and most of us have had it hit us directly with someone in the corporate world losing one or more laptops with critical customer data on it.  The cost the hardware is only about $4000, the information carried upon it was could be worth millions..

Of course, to get to valuable proprietary information is not the reason for all laptop thefts some laptop thieves head try to quickly sell the laptop as-is. However, some data indicate that about 10 percent to 15 percent of those laptops are stolen by criminals intent on selling the data.

How to Protect Your Laptop:

With this in mind, what can we do as individuals to prevent our own personal loss?

Laptop Security Cables:

This is one of the lowest cost and one of the most effective deterrents to theft.  As with most theft attempts, even a small amount of effort can make a huge difference.  For this to work you need to make sure that your laptop is equipped with the appropriate feature to attach a cable.  This is called a Universal Security Slot.

It is important to pay attention to what you are attaching the laptop and cable to.  You sometimes have to think like a thief.  If you really wanted to get that laptop could you?  If you answer is yes, then you need to add more security.  Consider looping the cable through a hole drilled in the lag of the desk.  If you just loop it around the leg than all it takes is some one strong enough to lift the desk enough to slip the cable under the leg and whoosh! your laptop is gone…

Keep Your Laptop Out of Sight:

If you are not with your laptop then it should be secured in a locked drawer or in the possession of someone you trust (for the short trip to the restroom for example).  Especially if you are in a public place like an airport, bookstore, or your favorite coffee shop.  Never leave your bag alone.

Some laptop cases scream “I have a laptop in here!”

Try to use a carrying case for your laptop that may be a bit beat up or at least not look like it obviously contains a laptop.  This may be difficult to do but can be a real effective way to have a thief move on to the next victim without bothering your precious laptop inside your ugly bag.

How to Protect Your Data:

I’m sure you’ve had moments when you couldn’t locate a file that you knew you had stored on your laptop.  The feeling of panic can be terrible until you find it.  Imagine your hard drive failing (it happens!).  You would lose all your important files – pictures, videos, everything. 

Therefore, first and most important is external storage.  External storage can be something as simple as a USB Flash Drive also known as a thumb drive (about the size of your thumb….) or a large external drive (about the size of an average hardcover book)

The type of external storage you select will depend on your needs.  If you just keep basic files (i.e. “Word” documents or spreadsheets, etc) then a thumb drive could be enough (and they are very inexpensive) and can store up to 32 Gigabytes of data or if you are willing to pay a bit more they are larger storage capabilities available.  If you plan on storing large files such as lots of photos and videos then you may need to step up in capacity with an external hard drive.  They store up to 2 “Terabytes” (2000 Megabytes) of data.

Using Compare Laptops tool to select a laptop that meets all your needs

Buying a laptop is not a guessing game and with so many laptops in the market. Most often, it becomes very difficult for you to make up your mind on what to buy. Every laptop manufacturer today has at least a minimum of 10-25 notebook models to offer, and even if you have the basic idea of what you want, it becomes hard to narrow down to your perfect choice.

Today laptops are not just machines that provide mobile computing. Rather they have evolved into tools of digital lifestyle. Today a laptop is used for computing, entertainment, mobile internet, video conferencing, gaming and much more. But not all laptops have all the functionalities, and each functionality adds to the cost. So how should you systematically go about selecting a laptop that meets your needs and comes at the affordable price?

One feature that is effectively used by comparison websites is Compare Laptop tool. This tool allows you to compare various models on price and features across brands and also different models of the same brand. The common mistake committed by most of the first time buyers of laptop is that they tend to compare only prices of laptops without looking at the features and configuration of the laptops, and therefore buying decision reached is never right.  It is like comparing Maruti 800 with Mercedes Benz C220, and if price is the only consideration then nobody would ever buy Mercedes Benz C220. Compare Laptop tool not only allows you to compare prices of different laptops , but it offers comparison based on features and specifications like Processor, Ram, Hard Drive, Optical Disc Drive and so on. Basically Compare Laptop tool allows you to do like- to- like comparison to arrive at the right buying decision.

A simple three step process will help you select right laptop or any other technology gadget:

1. Decide what you need laptop for.  For instance, do you need it for basic computing, or running high end applications, or graphic work, or gaming or entertainment? For example a HP pavilion laptop offers more multimedia capabilities when compared to a Dell Studio laptop, but at the same time a Dell Studio is much more suited for heavy computing as compared to HP pavilion notebooks.
2. After you’ve decided on the use, shortlist models using Compare Laptop tool that meet your criteria with respect to features, components and overall specifications.
3. Finally compare price of shortlisted models and further narrow down your choice to one to three models that are lowest priced.

Having said that, comparison tool as used in most the comparison websites today has its own limitations and it becomes difficult to narrow down your choices beyond a point.  www.consumermate.com takes this concept a step further and tries to address some of these anomalies. Consumermate allows you to shortlist models based on brand, screen-size, weight, and price before you do comparison on components & features. This allows you to specify your basic requirements before you go to detailed specification sheet. The buying decision is much more simple, accurate and precise this way.

Besides, Consumermate has a user friendly feature of Laptop Guru that through set of simple questions guides a lay-man to ascertain his exact requirements and select appropriate models. This is a very handy tool if you are unable to define your requirements, which is the case most often. In addition, Consumermate has features like Expert Ratings & reviews and user reviews that help you further refine your search.

The whole idea behind comparison tool is to provide choice and transparency to the prospective buyers and thus helping them reach objective and correct buying decision.

Read more about Laptops on www.consumermate.com, your expert buying advice.

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They provide comprehensive support and repair solutions for home users and also for both public and private sector organizations in London and throughout the UK.

We provide our expert laptop repair service for many branded laptops such as IBM laptop repair, Sony laptop repair, Compaq laptop repair, Dell laptop repair, Toshiba laptop repair, Apple laptop repair, Asus laptop repair, Panasonic laptop repair, Packard Bell laptop repair, Siemens laptop repair, HP laptop repair, Gateway laptop repair, Fujitsu laptop repair, Lenovo laptop repair, NEC laptop repair, Alienware laptop repair and many others. Whether it is for general repairs or upgrades, our laptop and notebook repair company offers competitive rates for any brand of laptop. We are experts in notebook repair, laptop repairs, lcd repair, laptop screen repair, laptop motherboard repair, broken laptop repair, laptop screens repair, LCD replacement, hard drive repair, DC power jack repair etc.

We can resolve problems like random shut downs, booting problems, and display problems. If you have lost your important data, we can also recover your data through our efficient data recovery services.

We have successfully recovered data from thousands of hard drives and other storage devices. Our data recovery services are suitable for small and medium sized businesses and individuals all over the UK. Our commitment to provide the highest level of hard drive data recovery has made as one of the best choices among prospective London and UK clients. Unlike our competitors, we provide our clients with professional quality and excellent data backup and recovery at competitive rates.

We offer data recovery from any type of storage media including:

» Hard drive recovery (data recovery expertise on almost all file systems including FAT12, FAT16, FAT32,NFS, NTFS, HPFS, UFS, Ext2, Ext3).
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Our UK hard disk data recovery experts provide prompt data recovery from operating systems such as MS-DOS, Win95 / 98 / ME / NT / 2000 / XP, MAC OS X or higher, Apple Mac O.S. 3.0, Unix (Solaris, AIX, BSD, HP), Sun Solaris 8 and Linux (RedHat, Mandrake, Corel, Debian).

For any further queries or information, please call us on 0207 237 6805 or email:  info@creativeit.tv.

When you have decided to buy a used laptop, your decision doesn’t end here. Again you have two options to decide from: whether a used laptop or a refurbished laptop.

A used laptop is used by a user for a long time and is sold again to you. Though a laptop is sold after one-day use immediately after purchase, it will be sold as a used laptop.

Refurbished laptops are laptops used after purchase and returned to the manufacturer or store. The manufacturer refurbishes the parts needed and again sells it as refurbished laptop. These refurbished laptops are equally good as new laptops, but you get it at a much cheaper price.

While purchasing a used laptop you have to look for three important factors in a laptop such as condition of the laptop, features available and the portability of the laptop.

The used laptop’s working condition is very important and it is advisable that you buy a laptop that is within three years old. The currently available programs and software cannot run in outdated laptops since they cannot support the recent technological features. If possible you can stick for searching laptops that are not more than eighteen months old. You don’t have to be concerned about some of these aspects, if you are buying a refurbished laptop as it will be repaired and tested like a new one.

Another important factor that is to be considered is the features available on used laptops. If your main concern is speed, then keep in your mind that laptops operate slower than the desktop computers that have the same processing system. Never buy a used laptop with memory less than 128 MB, as it cannot run many of the programs and applications that are available in standard computers of today. You can buy a used laptop that’s powered between 20 GB and 80 GB of Hard Disk capacities depending on your computing and processing needs. Other important issues while buying used laptop are the laptop screen size, resolution and definition. Also make sure that the used laptop has the needed capabilities for entertainment and media requirements. As laptops are becoming lighter and thinner day-by-day, its portability is very important while you purchase a used laptop. Choose a weightless used laptop that is portable even with added accessories.

You have to be careful while buying a used laptop from an acquaintance or a private vendor. You have to do a thorough examination of the used laptop with the help of a professional or a neutral party. You can easily get deceived while buying pre-owned items and used laptops are also one among them. Computer knowledge is a must while purchasing a used laptop and then only you can ensure a laptop that will meet the standard requirements for today’s environment.

A laptop is a portable gadget that helps you to explore all information you require. As the process of buying a used laptop is complex, you can buy a used laptop guide that helps you in solving problems of what is needed in a used laptop and what is not to be done while buying. Always give importance to factors like the laptop brand, size, weight, battery life, connectivity, storage, memory and processing power. A laptop with high processing power can provide you best value for your money spent.

Here are 9 ways to prevent your laptop from theft as well as an explanation of laptop security devices that ensure your laptop and data are protected. The main attraction of laptops is their portability and mobility. It is great to be able to take your computer with you and use it anywhere. But with these benefits comes a risk of theft. Obviously theft is more likely to happen when an object can be picked up and carried away. Laptop security devices are important to prevent your laptop from being stolen as well as to prevent the data from your laptop being retrieved and used in the event that your laptop is a victim of theft.

9 WAYS TO PREVENT LAPTOP THEFT

1. Don’t use computer bags, while these maybe fashionable and comfortable they make it obvious that you are carrying a laptop. Try using a padded briefcase or suitcase instead.

2. Make sure your laptop is always with you. Do not check laptops in with your luggage while traveling. Never leave your laptop in your car in plain sight or any valuable objects for that matter. There has been a recent increase of car burglaries stemming from people leaving valuables in plain sight. Lock all valuables in the trunk.

3. Never leave access numbers or passwords in your carrying case. Keeping your password with your laptop is like keeping the keys in the car. Without your password or important access numbers it will be more difficult for a thief to access your personal and corporate information.

4. Keep your eye on your laptop. When you go through airport security don’t lose sight of your bag. Hold your bag until the person in front of you has gone through the metal detector. Many bags look alike and yours can easily be lost in the shuffle.

5. Avoid setting your laptop on the floor. Putting your laptop on the floor is an easy way to forget or lose track of it. If you have to set it down, try to place it between your feet or against your leg (so you’re always aware it’s there).

6. Use a screen guard when in public. This prevents people from looking over your shoulder and seeing sensitive information. This is especially helpful when you’re traveling or need to work in a crowded area.

7. Do not leave your laptop unsecured in your hotel room. Things sometimes tend to get “lost” in hotel rooms and are never secure. If you must leave your laptop in the room then use a security cable to attach it to a stable object, such as the desk or bedpost. Another good thing to do is leave the “do not disturb” sign on the door.

8. Make sure that everything that can be labeled is labeled with the name of the individual or organization that owns it, and ensure that these labels are conspicuous. The potential theft value of a laptop or peripheral is reduced greatly when additional work is required to remove the identifying marks. Conspicuous identity labels also significantly increase the risk of a potential thief being caught in the act of theft.

9. Buy a laptop security device. The next section details some options for laptop security devices.

LAPTOP SECURITY DEVICE:

Laptop Cable:

One of the most inexpensive and effective laptop security devices is a cable. Very much like a bicycle lock, this cable attaches to your laptop and allows you to lock it to a stationary object. The cable makes it much more difficult for someone to steal your laptop.

Laptop Tracing Programs:

These programs will report the location of a stolen laptop. They work when the laptop connects to the Internet, and can report the laptop’s exact physical location. Some tracing programs include CyberAngel and ComputracePlus.

Motion Sensors and Alarms:

Unexpected loud noises make people wake up and take notice, something that aspiring thieves find very discouraging. Laptop security companies realize this and have created alarms for portable computers.

While the signaling mechanism of an alarm system is usually the same, the triggering mechanisms are both varied and specialized. There are products available that create a “maximum separation zone” around the user and the laptop. The idea is that if the user moves out of range of the device, or the laptop is moved out of range of the user, the alarm will sound. Thus, if someone tries to steal or remove the laptop, the alarm will sound, drawing attention to the theft.

LAPTOP SECURITY DEVICES THAT PREVENT DATA ACCESS:

Security measures available in order to prevent access to data on your laptop in the event that it is taken.

Set a BIOS password:

Most laptops offer protection by allowing the owner to set a boot password. Typically most will prompt the user three times to enter a password, then refuse to boot if there are three failures.

Set a Login Password:

Set a login name/password that way in order to successfully login in to a laptop, the user must provide that information. If the login entered is incorrect, the operating system will refuse to allow entry.

Encryption:

One of the best laptop security devices are file encryption programs, which, encrypt files on your laptop. A private unlock key is provided to the user, and as long as your private key is kept safe, no one but you and your intended recipients will be able to view your data.

Biometric Fingerprint Readers:

Another great laptop security device is the Biometric Reader. The idea behind biometrics is to use the uniqueness of certain features of a user, such as retinal pattern, fingerprints, and even typing characteristics, to accurately identify and authorize persons. This type of laptop security device would provide a hardware level of authentication that would require authentication before the machine would even boot up.

As laptops are portable systems, it is very essential that the laptops must be placed in secure and safe laptop cases. Huge varieties of laptop cases are widely available in the market such as the leather laptop cases, aluminum laptop cases and feminine laptop cases exclusively for women.

The waterproof laptop cases

Waterproof laptop cases are counted best among other laptop cases. At times, the users who extensively commute might get caught in snow or rain and in such situations the waterproof laptop cases significantly protects the device from nay kind of damage. Even at office or home, it is possible that water or any other form of liquid might come in contact with the device and can impair your laptop, thus, to avert damage it is very essential to secure the laptop from water by using the waterproof laptop cases. The waterproof laptop cases are normally made from plastic that being highly water resistant is an ideal material for the waterproof cases. A waterproof laptop case protects laptops not only from water or moisture but also from scratches, dust, shock, damages, corrosion and heat.

The waterproof laptop cases have padded compartments so that the user can easily keep various other things as well such as binders, diskettes, lose files, business cards and pens. Also, few varieties of the laptop cases are equipped with an unseen telescopic handle or ergonomic handle. Majority of the waterproof laptop cases come with quick release straps and an integrated lock system. In addition, some laptop cases manufacturers have also introduced waterproof laptop cases with customizable fit. At the time of choosing the appropriate waterproof laptop case, the foremost thing to be considered is the size of the laptop so that the device could fit in snugly and easily. A laptop is a very delicate electronic device and has a huge risk of being damaged when transported.

So, those people who travel a lot and carry along various other things such as loose documents, binders and various other things to carry along, should certainly invest in the waterproof laptop cases as no one is sure what kind of weather you may get where you are traveling. One can buy the waterproof laptop case that has wheels attached to it or the laptop case with shoulder straps. If you are buying a waterproof laptop case make sure it is made out durable quality and has guarantee period in case of any production faults. There are various cheap laptop cases available in the market but such covers do not provide extra padded compartments, have a short life and may not fulfill the purpose of protection against water effectively.

Apart the cheap waterproof laptop cases, and discount waterproof laptop cases are also accessible in the market. These laptop cases come in various sizes, shapes, styles and designs and can be picked accordingly. Unlike the cheap waterproof laptop cases, the discount laptop cases comes in more reliable quality, have longer life and protects the device from every kind of damage. The discount waterproof laptop cases provides different compartments to carry extra stuff along the laptop such as CD’s, data cable, USB, Bluetooth and many more.

Mobile computing or laptop usage in particular has proved to be a boon for many. However, this has also been termed as the root cause for the rise in shoulder, back and neck problems. Repetitive strain injury for instance has been diagnosed to many business persons who have been using the laptop for prolonged period of time. Adjustable ergonomically designed laptop desks were something which was yet to be introduced to people back then. But, now with the changing technology, popularity, and certain health issues, many people have now turned to using laptop accessories that make it simpler to work and don’t take a toll on their health.

May it be using an Acer laptop, or an asus laptop or any other probably bet laptop, laptop computers have certain health hazards attached to it. Given below are some tips to help you maintain your health and the health of your laptop: -

•    Make use of separate mouse and keyboard if possible
•    Sit straight with support for your lower back
•    Take frequent breaks in between for relieving tension in upper body
•    Use an ergonomically designed laptop desk instead of using your lap. This will give your arms support and reduces strain.
•    Use laptop stand to elevate laptop screen level in alignment with your eye level

People who use laptop computers in particular cannot adjust the keyboard placement or the screen placement. Reason why they undergo strain on their wrist, back or neck; as a solution to this ergonomically designed laptop stands and adjustable ergonomically designed laptop desks are commonly used as a remedy for people suffering from health risks like carpal tunnel syndrome, repetitive strain injury or certain musculoskeletal injuries that arise due to prolonged use of laptop. Thanks to laptop stands and laptop desks, you don’t have to change the way you sit, or sit in an uncomfortable position but instead position the laptop in an appropriate manner.

Many chiropractors in particular promote the use of laptop desks and laptop stands, as they are ergonomically designed, taking into consideration the user comfort. According to them placing notebook laptops on a portable laptop stand or portable laptop desk is the suitable way of raising the laptop level according to the suitable eye level of the user.

Notebook computer accessories for laptop notebook like the laptop stand are good for you and your health in particular. Accessories for laptop computers also contribute to the longevity of your laptop. Use laptop notebook stands for your amelioration. HandStands has been a leading manufacturer and distributor of laptop accessories which range from laptop mats, laptop stands, laptop desks as well as laptop skins and notebook cooling stands that thwart health risks and give you the much needed comfort.