Touch Screen Laptop

Opinions vary widely on the usefulness of a touch screen laptop over a tablet computer.

People who type very fast still want to feel the resistance of keys that respond when pressed. For the person who can write faster than he can type, the touch screen provides an alternative method for taking notes and using the computer quickly and easily.

HP TouchSmart tm2-2150us 12.1-Inch Argento Laptop PC

The touch screen laptop is versatile enough to respond to the needs of users with any level of technical skill. Designs have been improved to answer durability questions that were mentioned as concerns in the earliest models. Close evaluation of multiple touch screen laptop models will reveal that most models share similar strengths and limitations which can be addressed by following certain recommendations.

Depending on the application, the touch screen laptop has proven to meet the needs of countless users in every sector of the workforce. These are just a few of the people who use touch screen laptops in their work:

• Teachers find many uses for a touch screen laptop because their work must be completed in multiple locations.
• Students find the use of a touch screen laptop to be easier for note taking and research since input is accepted from a stylus or a fingertip.
• Engineers like the ease with which a touch screen can accept input while being held in a standing position.
• Medical professionals are finding countless uses since patient information must be protected for compliance with federal regulations.
• Traveling professionals state the necessity of a touch screen and a keyboard to handle all the situations where the computer can be used effectively.

Strengths
A touch screen laptops offer numerous advantages over the traditional laptop design.

Although every manufacturer has included different features in each model, the following strengths have been designed to take laptop usage to new levels of convenience.

• Handwriting recognition - For people who write faster than they type, the touch screen laptop's ability to recognize handwriting is the most valuable feature. During meetings the user is able to take handwritten notes by using a stylus or the index finger to write notes that are stored in the software. Very sensitive touch screens are able to recognize special characters for mathematical equations and scientific notations.
• Vibrant screen - High resolution makes the screen on the touch screen laptop very easy to read and use for long periods of time. Colors displayed on the screen are sharp and clear for use at close range and in high- or low-light settings.
• Low heat generation - Standard laptops generate extreme heat that must be drawn away from the case to prevent automatic shutdown. Touch screen laptops are designed to generate less heat to prevent problems when using the computer in any situation. New component designs are meant to reduce heat build-up inside the casing.
• Easy navigation - Touch screen laptops allow the user to scroll through lists and maneuver through web screens without fumbling with a mouse or touchpad. Screen response provides seamless movement through large amounts of information by simply touching the screen.
• Orientation options - Screen orientation can be changed from landscape to portrait for use when standing or in cramped locations. Most models allow the user to change the screen with just a touch of the screen option without accessing extensive menus. Portrait orientation is used most often for note taking.
• Lightweight - The physical weight of the machine is one of the most important selling features of any portable computer. Touch screen laptop design includes lightweight components and materials that ensure the computer is very lightweight while being capable of performing every laptop feature.
• Full keyboard - Different from the tablet PC, the touch screen laptop includes a full keyboard with special characters, numbers, and function keys. For the person who can type fast and still wants the convenience of touch screen features, these computers offer the best of both designs.
• Swivel screen - Many early users of traditional laptops found the screen to be the most limiting feature because the hinges were fragile and could not flex from side to side. Touch screen laptops have a center hinge that allows the screen to be tilted at any angle, and the entire screen can be twisted and folded back behind the keyboard. This feature is important when using a stylus as a pen on the touch screen and holding the computer where a flat work surface is not available.

Limitations
Touch screen laptops offer many benefits to users who master their functions, but there are some limitations noted by experienced users. Each of these can be mitigated through consistent maintenance of the machine and thorough research prior to purchase.

• Battery life - The six-cell battery used by most touch screen laptops will last for approximately three hours of continuous use. When the battery is allowed to run down completely between charges, the life of the battery is extended. Because the touch screen laptop is so thin, small batteries are required to support portability and lightweight construction.

• No built-in webcam - Some touch screen laptop models do not have a built-in webcam, and for users on the go this has been mentioned as a severe drawback. External webcams can be added for use when in the office, but use of the portable computer necessitates the ability to capture images in remote locations.
• Screen vulnerability - Touch screens are vulnerable to bumps and scratches that will permanently reduce the resilience of the screen's outer layer. Care must be exercised to prevent undue wear because of the importance of the screen for the functions that the user enjoys most. Proper cleaning is essential because of the oil from the fingers that will accumulate on the screen from simple use.
• Price - Tablet computers have become very popular because of their touch screen convenience and lower price. Touch screen laptops still carry a premium price, but there are sources of refurbished models that offer all the functionality for less money.

» Go to Part 2

Touch Screen Laptop
How to find the best touch screen laptop: useful tips and advice to choose the laptop that best suits your needs.

Optimize Performance
Prior to purchase, follow these tips to optimize the performance of the touch screen laptop through its entire useful lifespan.

Where to Buy
Find the best selection of touch screen laptops at the lowest prices.

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