Mobile Computing

Subnotebook Laptops weighing typically between 0.8 to 2.7 kg and a screen of 6.4 to 13.3 inches diagonally. A subnotebook is a small and lightweight portable computer, with most of the features of a standard laptop computer but smaller. The term is often applied to systems that run full versions of desktop operating systems such as Windows or Linux, rather than specialized software such as Windows CE, Palm OS or Internet Tablet OS. Subnotebooks are smaller than laptops but larger than handheld computers and UMPCs. They often have screens around 10.6" (26.92 cm) (diagonal) and weigh less than 1 to 2 kg, as opposed to full-size laptops with 14.1" (35.81 cm) or 15.4" (39.12 cm) screens that typically weigh 2 kg or more. The savings in size and weight are usually achieved partly by omitting ports or having removable media/optical drives; subnotebooks are often paired with docking stations to compensate. Subnotebooks have been something of a niche computing product and have rarely sold in large numbers until the 2007 introduction of the Asus Eee PC and the OLPC XO-1. Asus actually refer to their Eee as a Netbook whilst other suppliers often call their systems Mini Laptops.

Other Devices

Netbooks A new subgroup of the traditional laptop computer, Netbooks are smaller, more compact laptops that are designed for surfing on the internet and basic word processing. Most of these netbooks use 10 in. screens, weigh at around 1.5 to 3.0 lbs, and are generally powered by either Intel Atom or Celeron processors, or Via processors, due to their more favorable Performance Per Watt ratings and cost. They also use Linux or Windows XP as their default operating systems. They are also more likely to use Solid State Hard Drives (SSD) instead of traditional platter Hard Drives. Personal digital assistants (PDAs) Small computers, usually pocket-sized, usually with limited functionality. A PDA supports mobile computing, but almost never runs any desktop software.