What to look for in a laptop

Published in Mobile Office on Wednesday, 05 November 2008
by Catherine Albert  |   Articles RSS

Don’t rush into buying a new laptop until you’ve read these facts?

The first thing anyone thinks about when buying a laptop is getting the fastest processor or the biggest hard drive but its important to think about other features you use to help make your work comfortable and to avoid future problems.

Not aware of the effects of prolonged use of a laptop?

You may have heard about RSI and other aches and pains from working with computers and laptops are no different. In fact people often have difficulties when using laptops because they find themselves working in awkward positions, such as in a car or in an airport. Problems that can occur include neck problems from bending to see the screen, shoulder problems from carrying heavy items and hand problems from using devices such as a nipple.

Try these 4 tips to prevent  problems associated with laptop use!

1. Reduce the amount of time spent using a computer. The amount of discomfort is usually related to the  time spent using the computer whether it’s a desk top or laptop.

2. Take frequent breaks and change your activities to make sure you are not working for too long at the computer

3. Use a docking station or a desk top computer when ever possible as there is less postural strain with this set-up than a laptop..

4. Carrying the laptop, together with large amounts of paperwork and additional item can put strain on the shoulder so keep your laptop and accessories as light as possible.

Check out our Guide to Choosing Laptops

Select new portable computers with ergonomic features in mind, including:

• Keep the weight to a minimum, e.g. 3kg or less for portable computer and accessories

• Choose a large screen i.e. 14" diagonal or more

• Select a model with a detachable or height adjustable screen

• Ensure the battery life is as long as possible. Power saving options to increase battery life (without increasing battery weight) and improve battery management for portable computers

• Additional cables/transformers for use in each location the laptop is used

• Check the laptop has a touch pad, rollerball or external mouse

• Use an additional  external mouse, kebyoard or numeric keypad

• AVOID ''nipple'' or trackpoints

• Use a wrist pad between keyboard and front edge of portable

• Use a lightweight non-manufacturer-branded carrying case with handle and shoulder straps

• Friction pads underneath to prevent computer sliding across surfaces when in use

• Sufficient memory and speed (for the applications used)

WorkFuture Team