Upgrading my Laptop: Part 2 Displays

Most of the time, I work in my office with my laptop hooked up to a docking station and a second monitor. However, I have been known to pack up and head to a cafe to work, and in the summer I like to sit outside. So what kind of screen is best?

While the glossy screen options like TrueBrite or UltraSharp look great indoors and for multimedia, I'm told that they can be very difficult to see outdoors or if a light source, like a sunny window, is behind you. Matte, anti-glare screens won't reflect light sources, however they tend to be less bright unless you find one with an LED backlight option.

In terms of a graphic card, most websites say that an integrated card that shares processing memory with the main computer is fine for most business users. I run Photoshop, and use video conferencing and multiple monitors. I also sometimes need to view graphics-heavy websites or e-learning programs. Apparently this means that I'm not a typical business user. My IT friends all recommended that I get a discrete graphics card. These come with dedicated memory for the display. The drawback is that they tend to be more power hungry, however some can be set to default to an integrated option when conserving battery life is a consideration. Perfect!

Upgrading my Laptop: Part I Warranties

I'm in the process of buying a replacement laptop. I like to buy things that will last and serve me well; and I'm willing to invest a bit more upfront, both in time and cost, to make sure I get a product that fits my needs. I am not a 'tech-geek' by any stretch of the imagination, so navigating the cyber-scape of laptops features is quite intimidating.

In my next few posts, I'm going to share my process as I research my new laptop. Input is always welcome!

My first two requirements are fairly simple. One is an 'office' edition operating system. This gives me extra networking options that I've found useful in my work and, especially, travels for work. The other is an integrated camera and microphone since I video conference with some of my non-local clients. Sure I can perch a camera on top of the monitor, but it's one more thing in the bag while travelling.

My third requirement is proving to be more difficult. I'm looking for a three-year on-site service warranty. As a writer, my computer is my livelihood; and as a medical writer, much of the contents of my computer are confidential. If I need a repair, I simply can not afford to package up my computer and send it off for depot servicing. I want the repairman to come to me. Every computer I've owned has required servicing at some point or another, so the request isn't exactly unfounded.

The 'office' edition operating system and warranty requirements seem to rule out purchasing my laptop from any of the box stores. Most computers only came with a 'home'" edition operating system and one-year warranty. Sure they'll extend my warranty to three years, but it is always return to depot. If I want an 'office' operating system, I'll have to buy it separately.

That leaves purchasing from the manufacturer, which was my preference anyway since it offers better customization. The only three manufacturers I've found who offer 3-year warranties as standard, or the option to upgrade your warranty to a 3-year on-site warranty are Dell, Toshiba and Lenovo. With Sony and HP, I can extend my warranty to three years, but no on-site service. LG might do it, but their website was so user unfriendly, including streaming sound with no 'off button', that I gave up looking.

My next step is to compare products, features and reviews. With only three manufacturers to choose from, at least my choices are already sufficiently narrowed to be manageable. Stay tuned!