How To Use a Laptop Or Notebook Computer

Introduction

The terms laptop and notebook are pretty much synonymous in terms of mobile computers. However, if you breakdown the words, in both terms you begin to understand how to better use them.

"Lap + top" differentiates these computers from those that sit on a desk, or a "desk + top." You place and use the computer on your lap, and the computer runs off the rechargeable battery or you can plug it into a power outlet nearby. You can also carry the laptop PC just about anywhere, which is not the case for a desktop.

"Notebook" might refer to the way in which a mobile computer collapses or closes in on itself like a manila folder or spiral notebook binder. This is significant because many people have transitioned to doing just about anything that is normal done in the physical world to the virtual world. For example, students take lecture notes on notebook computers instead of in a spiral paper notebook.

The uses for laptops and notebooks are limitless, and here are just a few examples.

Step 1

Use your laptop or notebook as a wireless router. Many users are unfamiliar with a feature in the Windows operating system called Internet Connection Sharing. ICS allows users to share a single Internet connection with at least one other computer. For example, if your primary Internet connection on the laptop is using a wireless connection to a nearby router, you can allow a desktop computer to piggyback on your wireless connection via the Ethernet port.

Another option is if you connection your cell phone to a laptop or notebook for Internet service. You can instruct ICS to route your connection to the Ethernet port, as well, allowing another use to share your Internet connection.

Step 2

Use your laptop or notebook computer as a portable TV set. The easiest way to perform this action is to stream video from the Internet. However, you can also hook up a TV tuner to the laptop so that can receive over the air broadcasts in your area. You can also connect a nearby coaxial cable to the set. TV tuners usually connect via the USB port.

Step 3

Use your laptop or notebook as a portable boombox. Create a playlist using the Windows Media Player application. Put WMP in full screen mode to see the visualizations on the monitor.

Step 4

Use a laptop or notebook computer as a telephone via VoIP services.

Step 5

Use a laptop or notebook computer as a presentation tool at school or work.

Tips

Be careful about using a laptop or notebook outdoors where the humidity might damage internal components.

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