From Laptop to Lighter-than-Laptop
If you've decided to move to a laptop computer for your farm, consider the lighter options available.
Compiled by staff
Published: Apr 7, 2008
You've agonized over the decision for months. You've decided that with all the high-tech equipment you're using at the farm that a laptop computer might be the best choice. However, once you've made that decision there's a new one to make - how "light" should you go?
The introduction of new laptops that weigh in at 3 pounds or less might be just the choice for your operation. I started using an HP Compaq 2510 about a month ago, and can't believe the relief in carrying this 3.1-pound machine in my briefcase. It features a CD ROM/DVD drive and a slot for using an SD card for transferring data from my digital camera to my computer.
There are two new computers on the market that are getting plenty of attention - the MacBook Air and the Lenovo X300. We wanted to run down the features for you and let you decide if a lighter computer is the right choice.
We'll start with the Apple Air.
Sexy in an 'inter-office' envelope
You've seen those ads. The big envelope sits on a table and someone reaches in side the apparently empty envelope to remove a full-fledged Apple Macintosh computer. The large screen size, and the thin depth catch your attention. However, you won't find a CD drive in the machine, or any ports for memory cards.
 You will find connections that make it easy to connect CD or DVD readers, and memory card reading devices.
I speak about the Macintosh family because compatibility issues between the Mac and PC world are slowly ending. For basic data file transfer - often bit text files - the Mac is just fine. You also have access to Microsoft Office and other features common for business users.
The machine features three connections - the only ones you'll need according to the company. The first is a headphone jack, the second is a USB 2.0 port (handy for connecting card readers) and a Micro-DVI port for connecting a monitor or other device. All three are cleverly hidden behind a flipdown door.
If you're in an area where Mac support is offered, and you like the size and shape of the MacBook Air - you might consider purchasing the machine. Cost is about $2,000, depending upon how it is outfitted. You can learn more by visiting www.apple.com/macbookair.
'Business' laptop maker weighs in
Lenovo, the Chinese company that bought the IBM laptop business a few years ago - is staking its claim to light-weight computing with the new Lenovo X300. There's a story that when the company heard about the Apple "envelope" commercial they tested to see if the X300 would fit in the same kind of envelope. It does.
 The Lenovo also has a built-in DVD burner/CD reader, extended-life battery and 3 USB ports for using features like card readers. The machine features a backlit LED display it says is easier to read, and lighter weight.
The thin DVD burner - on some X300 models - makes it a full-function ultraportable. And it uses a carbon fiber frame to for durability, without interfering with wireless signals.
Prices are all over the map - but I've seen this on the Web for as little as $2,700 or more than $3,000. As with any computer it's how you configure the machine. Learn more at www.Lenovo.com/X300.
If you're thinking of a new laptop, these weight-savers may be just what you need, but if you're looking for more features and weight isn't an issue you'll find plenty of options from all the major laptop players including HP, Dell and Toshiba. Each company has a Web site and they all offer full-featured buying guides.
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