Most backlit keyboards have several small LED lights located under the keyboard. These LED lights are often just above a reflective layer that spreads the light more evenly around the area under the keyboard. Directly below the keys is a layer of clear material with several dots for each key. These dots reflect the light up into the individual keys to help illuminate them. The keys themselves have a semi-transparent layer in the area of the letter, number, or symbol on the key. This allows the light to come through the intended portion of the key, while the rest of the key is opaque, blocking the light.

While it may be possible to add a backlit keyboard to a laptop that was not originally designed for one, there are a few problems involved. First, laptops are designed to minimize wasted space, and a backlit keyboard often takes up more space than one that is not backlit. This would make it difficult to fit into the available space. Second, the keyboard would require power connections to the motherboard that were not intended by the manufacturer and could cause damage to the system. The low cost of most laptops makes it much more practical to simply upgrade to a model with a backlit keyboard than to risk damaging a laptop over a minor modification.

1. Turn off the laptop and disconnect all cables, including the power cable.

2. Close the lid and flip the laptop over so that the front is facing you. Remove the battery by sliding the battery switch to the side and lifting the battery up and out of its compartment.

3. Note the location of the optical drive on the side of the laptop. Find the single phillips screw that is securing the other end of the drive in place and remove it.

4. Straighten a paper clip and insert it into the small hole in the face of the optical drive. The media tray will release outward.

5. Carefully grip the media tray and pull the optical drive straight out to remove it. Note the orientation of the drive so that you can align the replacement drive.

6. If the replacement drive does not already have a bracket, remove the two phillips screws securing the old optical drive to the bracket and remove the bracket.

7. Place the bracket on the new drive and insert the two screws, then slide the new drive into the optical drive slot of the laptop, then insert and tighten the single screw.

Boot up your computer and insert a disc to test that it is working and properly recognizes the new drive. If the drive is recognized, you have successfully completed the upgrade.

1. Turn off the laptop and disconnect all cables, including the power cable.

2. Close the lid and flip the laptop over so that the front is facing you. Remove the battery by sliding the battery switch to the side and lifting the battery up and out of its compartment.

3. Locate the two hard drive covers on either side of the laptop at the bottom. Remove the two phillips screws holding each cover into place, then lift and remove the cover.

4. Grip the plastic tab and pull the drive out of its slot. Notice how the connector automatically disconnects.

5. Remove the four phillips screws holding the hard drive inside the metal bracket and remove the drive from the bracket.

6. Place the new drive inside the bracket and insert the four screws to secure it into place.

7. Slide the drive and the bracket into the hard drive compartment so that the connector automatically connects. Repeat the process with the second drive if necessary.

8. Replace the hard drive covers and screws, reinstall the battery, and reconnect all cables. You may need to reinstall the operating system if you replaced your system drive.

Boot up your computer to test that it is working and properly recognizes the new drive. If the drive is recognized, you have successfully completed the upgrade.

1. Shut down the laptop and remove all cables, including the power cable. Remove the battery as well to avoid the risk of electric shock.

2. Close the lid and flip the laptop over to access the back. Below the battery is a large plastic cover near the center of the laptop. This is the RAM cover. Remove the RAM cover by removing the two screws holding it in place and set it aside.

3. Remove the two screws located at the top two corners on either side of the battery compartment.

4. Remove the three screws inside the battery compartment near the back of the laptop.

5. Remove the two screws near the edge of the battery compartment and the single screw inside the edge of the RAM compartment. All three screws are marked with a keyboard icon.

6. Flip the laptop over and open the lid. Carefully pry up the plastic bezel above the keyboard with a guitar pick or other flat piece of plastic. Pull up slowly on the bezel and disconnect the flex cables underneath it.

7. Gently lift the top edge of the keyboard and slide it toward the screen then flip it over carefully. It is connected by a cable underneath. Disconnect the cable and remove the keyboard completely.

8. Connect the cable on the new keyboard to the connecter and slide the keyboard into place. Reverse the instructions to re-assemble the laptop.

Once you have the laptop re-assembled, reconnect the battery and the power cable and boot up the machine. Test the keyboard to make sure all keys are responding and you are now finished.

1. As with all repairs, shut down the computer, disconnect all cables, and remove the battery before beginning.

2. Close the laptop’s lid and flip it over so that you have access to the bottom of the laptop, with the front facing toward you.

3. Remove the two phillips screws that hold the hard drive cover in place. The hard drive cover is located at the bottom left of the laptop.

4. Lift the right side of the cover and swing it to the left to remove it. Grab the plastic tab to pull the hard drive up and out of the bay and disconnect the cable to remove it.

5. The WLAN module is located under the hard drive. Remove the two antenna cables from the module and the phillips screw, then pull it away from the connector and remove it.

6. Remove the two screws at the top corners and the three screws inside the top of the battery compartment. Also remove the two screws at the bottom of the battery compartment and the single screw that holds the RAM cover in place and remove the RAM cover, then remove the single screw inside the cover marked with a keyboard icon.

7. Flip the laptop over and pry the plastic bezel above the keyboard up with a guitar pick or flat plastic piece. Disconnect the cables underneath and remove the bezel.

8. Remove the screws securing the keyboard, then lift the keyboard up slowly and disconnect the cable connecting it to the motherboard and set it aside.

9. Disconnect the display cable at the top left and the webcam cable on the right side near the center. Remove the WLAN cables from the clip. They are located to the left of the webcam cable.

10. Remove the four screws that hold the display assembly in place and lift it out of the laptop.

11. Place the new display assembly in its place and secure it with the four screws. Reverse the directions to re-assemble the laptop.

Once the display assembly is installed and the laptop is re-assembled, you can reconnect the battery and power cable and boot up the machine to test the new display. If the display is working properly, you have successfully completed the repair.

At the heart of the Pavilion HDX is an Intel Centrino Duo processor that can handle high-end applications and gaming quite easily. The ATI Mobility Radeon HD 2600 XT graphics processor provides 256 MB of graphics memory for solid gaming performance and multimedia enhancements. 4 GB of RAM adds to the experience, and more RAM can be added if desired.

The real highlight of “The Dragon” is its large 20.1 inch screen, however, which makes gaming and multimedia more enjoyable than is typical on a laptop. The large screen size approaches desktop computing territory and provides ample space for large office documents and other applications as well.

Not only does the Pavilion HDX provide a solid multimedia experience on its own, however, but it is designed to be used with your home theater setup very easily. With HDMI ports and digital audio outputs, it provides a great video and audio experience on a large screen, and the laptop even has a pop-out remote control that allows you to control the device from across the room. This is quite a unique feature that hasn’t really been seen before in an entertainment laptop and helps to bridge the gap between mobile computing and home theater.

With its combination of larger-than-average screen, solid performance, and a pop-out remote control, the HP Pavilion HDX is primed to take the multimedia laptop market by storm. However, serious gamers who are drawn to its large screen may find its gaming performance a little lacking.

When it comes to design, the HP ProBook 5330m borrows heavily from the brushed aluminum designs of Apple’s MacBook Pro line, but this isn’t entirely a bad thing. For the most part, the sturdy aluminum frame makes it a very durable machine with a lot of aesthetic appeal. The frame is a bit boxier than you would find in a MacBook design, however, and HP has added seams where they seem unnecessary. The standard model comes with an Intel i3 processor at 2.1 GHz and 4 GB of RAM, which is expandable to 8 GB.

The laptop sports a 13.3 inch display with a resolution of 1366×768, which should be quite a bit of screen real estate for many office applications. Buyers have an option for a matte or glossy screen, which will be good news for those who dislike the industry’s trend toward glossy screens as the only option. Users who frequently work in large Excel spreadsheets might long for a little more screen space, but this is a compromise for portability.

Speaking of portability, the battery life is around 4 hours, which is decent performance, but you might expect a bit more from a laptop with a 13.3 inch screen. The battery is user-replaceable, but larger-capacity batteries are not available for the machine.

The HP ProBook 5330m is a good value if purchasing the standard model, but a customized version starts at around twice the price. Those who need to customize may find that other models are a better value.

One major benefit of OLED displays is that they are very lightweight and even flexible. Weight reduction is a constant battle for laptop manufacturers, and reducing the weight of laptops by using OLED displays is something that would seem to be very appealing. While the flexibility of OLED displays doesn’t seem to be much of a factor for laptops, it could allow for new designs that think outside the box. For example, Sony recently demonstrated a prototype device with an OLED display that could be rolled in and out to save space.

Another major advantage of OLEDs that could appeal to laptop manufacturers is better power efficiency than LCD and other technologies, as it uses less power when running and can selectively turn off portions of the display and not consume any power. OLEDs also have a faster response time than LCD displays, which results in a higher frame rate and smoother motion.

There are currently many disadvantages for OLEDs, however, which are hindering their adoption as an LCD replacement for laptops. The major hindrance is the higher cost of producing the displays. OLEDs are also more prone to water damage and do not currently have as much longevity as LCD panels, causing them to lose brightness more quickly.

OLEDs are seeing a lot of growth in portable devices in recent years, and the technology will likely continue to be used in more and more products in the near future. Once the cost of manufacturing OLEDs begins to drop and some of the other disadvantages of the technology can be resolved, we are likely to see it used more and more in laptops in the coming years.

Optical Drive

CD and DVD drives, and even newer Blu-ray drives, contain more moving parts than most other laptop components, which makes them more likely to fail. In addition, the reading lens is often susceptible to scratches and other damage. If your optical drive fails, it can often be replaced at an affordable price.

Battery

Laptop batteries are fairly destined to fail, as they lose capacity over time until their maximum capacity is no longer useful and battery life is extremely short. Luckily, replacing the battery is one of the most simple and painless items on the list.

Hard Drives

Companies that sell backup products often tell you it is not a matter of “if” your hard drive will fail, but “when.” This may be a bit dramatic, but the fact is that hard drives and their moving parts are a common point of failure for laptops. Replacing the drive is fairly simple, but getting your data back is more difficult. Always use a good backup plan that will allow you to recover your important files in case of a hard drive failure.

LCD Screen

The LCD screen of your laptop draws more power than any other component, making it susceptible to power problems. Diagnosing the issue is often challenging, as it could be a problem with the screen itself, the inverter, or other problems. See a repair shop for a good diagnosis.

AC Adapter

The AC adapter is an overlooked component of a laptop, but is essential for keeping it up and running. It is also the most likely part to fail on any laptop, printer or desktop (power supply). AC adapters tend to get knocked around and shoved in and out of bags, making them susceptible to physical damage to the cords and the transformer unit. Like batteries, AC adapters are very easy to replace.

If you find that a component of your laptop has failed, see if the repair is covered under warranty. If not, and the repair is simple, consider performing the repair yourself, or consult a repair shop for help.

Truthfully, the comparison between LCD and LED displays is a bit tricky, as they can be the same thing. In fact, the terms may be somewhat interchangeable for some models. Confused? You should be.

LCD stands for liquid crystal display, which refers to tiny crystals that make up the pixels of an LCD display. The crystals don’t create light themselves, but instead they filter the light to create colors that combine to make the image on the screen. The light for the picture is actually supplied by the backlight located behind the crystals.

Originally, LCD displays used fluorescent lamps as backlights, which provide a fairly bright light but are prone to uneven lighting and generally use a lot of power. In many cases when someone refers to an LCD display, they are referring to a display that uses fluorescent backlighting. These displays are becoming less common.

LED displays are those that use LED (light emitting diodes) lights as a backlight. LEDs use less power than fluorescent bulbs and usually provide a brighter and more even light for the display. However, LED backlights still shine through LCDs to create the color for the display. This is where much of the confusion between the two technologies happens.

In summary; a display that is referred to as LCD could mean one that uses fluorescent OR LED backlighting, though it generally refers to those with fluorescent backlights. LED refers to a display with LED backlighting, but it is worth knowing that LED displays are still technically LCD displays as well.

The design of the dv6t has more aesthetic appeal than many of HP’s models, with a sleek metallic finish and a minimalistic design that doesn’t add too many extra buttons. The machine measures 1.39 inches by 14.88 inches by 9.71 inches and weighs only 5.78 pounds, which makes it well-suited for travelers and others who need portability without sacrificing power.

The Intel Core i7 processor offers the latest in performance and extra features that can give an extra boost when needed. For example, Intel’s Turbo Boost Technology manages the power and heat of the processor but provides extra power when these levels are within the proper range.

The machine features a 15.6 inch Brightview LED display for excellent clarity and low power usage. The quad speakers have extra amps for louder sound, and buyers have the option to add a Blu-ray reader or writer drive for more multimedia options. It comes standard with 6 GB of memory and a 750 GB hard drive, but both can be upgraded if the buyer chooses.

There are a number of smaller features that add extra convenience as well. A webcam is included for video chats, a USB 3.0 port is included for faster connectivity for modern devices, and Wireless-N networking gives users the fastest wireless experience. HP also included their SimplePass fingerprint reader for users who wish to lock the computer without the need for a password.

The HP dv6t Quad Edition is a worthwhile upgrade from the previous edition, especially for those who need a powerful laptop. Its price is affordable and its convenient features such as the fingerprint reader are a nice bonus.

With a 14” diagonal screen, the dm4x manages to be quite compact, but the Brightview LED technology that HP uses provides a bright and vibrant viewing experience. Pair this with the Radeon HD 6370M graphics processor with 1 GB of video memory and you have quite a multimedia and gaming machine for such a small design. Users who plan to do a lot of multimedia viewing might wish for a bit larger screen, but this would add more bulk, and the included VGA and HDMI ports give users the ability to connect the laptop to an external monitor or HDTV for a larger viewing experience when desired.

Under the hood is an Intel Core i5 processor, with the option to upgrade to an i7 processor for those who want more power. Standard memory configuration is 4 GB, with options up to 8 GB available. A 500 GB hard drive should provide more than enough room for large media files.

The design of the dm4x includes a brushed metal finish on the inside and outside that is very appealing and also keeps the weight and heat down. The HP CoolSense technology can even sense the heat level of the laptop to manage processor speed and other functions to reduce the heat the keep the user more comfortable, especially useful when using the machine on a lap. HP ProtectSmart technology can sense when the laptop is being dropped and lock the heads to avoid damage.

With the Pavilion dm4x, HP has delivered a fast and powerful laptop with a great design that should appeal to multimedia users, gamers, and even power users. An affordable price and great customization options and upgrades make it even more appealing.

The HP NB801AA has a somewhat bulkier design than the standard battery, but this is a necessity given its additional cells. Unlike the standard battery that which fits inside the battery compartment of the machine, the HP NB801AA actually sticks out from the bottom somewhat. This causes the laptop to be angled toward the user when used on a lap or a surface. It also adds extra weight, weighing around 1 pound. This could be a downside for users who prefer portability and lightness, especially when traveling, but the benefit of extra battery life will likely outweigh the extra bulk for those who don’t have access to power outlets.

Purchasing the HP NB801AA is an excellent option for almost any user, as it offers the best of both worlds. When portability is a priority and power outlets are readily available, users can opt for the standard 6-cell battery. When extra capacity is needed, users can use the 9-cell model, or even use both batteries, swapping when one gets low. The combination of the two batteries should provide enough battery life for almost an entire work day.

The HP NB801AA is a very worthwhile upgrade for an excellent laptop. Buyers who need more power to get through a long flight or getting work done outside the office will not regret the purchase, and its extra bulk is a worthwhile tradeoff for its benefits.

The design of the HP G62m is about as basic as it gets, with a simple black design and a solid keyboard and trackpad. The 15.6” display is LED backlit, which is somewhat surprising given the price. It is also quite bright and vibrant. A 250 GB hard drive is included as a standard option, but upgrades to a 320 GB or 500 GB hard drive are available for those who need more space. The machine comes with 2 GB of memory standard, but it is upgradeable to a maximum of 4 GB. A SuperMulti drive is included which can handle CD and DVD burning, and buyers have the option of upgrading to a LightScribe-capable drive for just a bit more.

Windows 7 Home Premium is pre-installed on the laptop, and buyers may be surprised to see the 64-bit edition in such a low-priced machine. The integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500M is probably not powerful enough to provide the most impressive visual experience of Windows 7, but it does offer both a VGA port and an HDMI port for output, allowing users to connect the laptop to an HDTV for large-screen viewing.

Overall, the HP G62m is a very solid laptop for an extremely low price. Power users will find it underpowered, but casual users mainly interested in web surfing and email should find it more than adequate for their needs, and with such an affordable price, buyers will have a little money left in the budget for upgrades or an extra battery.

First, you will need to find a suitable replacement part. Use a parts locator tool to search for your make and model number. This helps ensure that you have the exact part that is compatible with your model. Once you have the correct part, follow the instructions below to perform the replacement.

1. Before beginning any laptop repair, it is important to shut down the computer, unplug all cables, especially the power cable, and remove the battery. Simply flip the laptop over and slide the switch above the battery to the side to release the battery.

2. With the laptop flipped over, make sure the front of the laptop is toward you. Remove the three phillips screws inside the battery compartment.

3. Flip the laptop back over and open the lid as far as possible. Look for two tabs located on either side of the keyboard a few inches from the top. Release these tabs gently and lift the top of the keyboard up toward you.

4. The keyboard is connected by a small ribbon cable underneath. Release the connector and slide the cable out of it. Remove the keyboard.

5. Connect the replacement keyboard to the ribbon cable connector and slide the keyboard into place, bottom first. Snap the tabs into place near the top of the keyboard then flip the laptop over and replace the three phillips screws.

At this point, you can replace the battery, plug in the power adapter, and boot up the machine. Test to make sure the new keyboard is functioning properly. If all is well, you are finished.

Desktops

The traditional desktop computer is declining in popularity as most users are gravitating toward the portability of laptop computers. The benefits of a desktop machine are still valid, however. Those who need the most powerful computer possible, or those who need to be able to easily add or remove hardware components, will generally prefer a desktop computer. Desktops are also preferred for users who wish to power multiple displays and those who are heavy gamers.

Laptops

The laptop computer has been growing in popularity in the past few years largely because it has nearly caught up in performance to desktop machines. Instead of having to choose between a powerful desktop machine or a slower laptop, users can now have both. Laptops will appeal most to users who desire portability but also solid performance.

Netbooks

As one of the most portable form factors available, small netbooks provide greater portability than laptops but at the cost of providing less performance. They are well-suited for users who value portability and don’t mind trading it for reduced speed, less multi-tasking ability, and less storage.

All-in-one machines

All-in-one computers are those that include the CPU and LCD display in one self-contained unit. They will appeal most to users who want a slim design that is easy to connect and to use. Many all-in-one machines are also very affordable, making them a good choice for smaller budgets.

The design of the EliteBook 2740p incorporates a screen that can be swiveled and rotated. When in laptop mode, the screen simply opens up normally and is centered over the keyboard and trackpad. When a user wishes to use it as a tablet, the screen can be rotated and flattened, covering the keyboard and trackpad, but making for a much more compact unit that fits easily on a lap. The 12.1 inch screen is multi-touch compatible, but users can also opt to use a stylus for more accurate input.

One somewhat unique feature of the machine is the bottom, which is coated with a rubber-like surface that adds extra grip. This is particularly useful when using it as a tablet, as it makes it much easier to hold in with another hand or keep on a lap. The battery is coated with the same material, and even replacement batteries include this material.

Battery life is around 4.5 hours with the standard battery, but buyers can opt for a larger battery that gives around 9 hours of battery life. The larger battery adds to the weight and is bulky enough that it sticks out from the bottom of the machine somewhat, but for travelers and others who need longer life, this will probably be a worthwhile tradeoff.

The EliteBook 2740p offers a good compromise for those who want both a laptop and a tablet. Its multi-touch screen is intuitive to use for many tasks, but users still have the option to switch to a keyboard and mouse when necessary.

1. Memory

One of the upgrades that is likely to have the most impact on any laptop is upgrading the memory. A computer with more memory is able to run more programs at once without slowdowns and can also help you open and edit large documents more quickly. Upgrading the memory is often fairly inexpensive and easy to do, so upgrade your laptop to the maximum amount of memory supported to get the most from the upgrade.

2. Hard Drive

Upgrading the hard drive in your laptop is a great way to get more storage for your important files, but it can also provide a performance boost. Upgrading from a 5200 RPM drive to a 7200 RPM or faster drive will boost performance, or you may even consider adding an SSD for faster boot times and a huge performance boost. Make sure to backup your important data before you attempt the upgrade.

3. Battery If your laptop is more than a year old, you may find that your battery does not last as long as it did when new. Battery capacity degrades over time, so replacing the battery with a new one is a great upgrade that will allow you to spend more time away from power outlets. Adding a second battery is also a great idea for doubling your battery life.

4. AC Adapter

An AC Adapter may seem out of place on a list of upgrades, but adding a second AC Adapter to your laptop setup can add extra convenience. Keeping an adapter plugged into the wall in your office and one at home, for example, makes it easy to quickly move from one location to another without the hassle of carrying an adapter around with you.

With these inexpensive and simple upgrades, you can add performance and convenience to your laptop experience, and almost anyone can perform these simple upgrades with a little planning and research.

The Media Port Replicator allows users to connect their external devices to it directly, and then the replicator connects to the laptop via USB 2.0. The result is a simple and easy way to connect all of your devices to your laptop by connecting only one USB cable.

The unit provides 4 powered USB connections, which can support a number of devices such as printers, keyboards, mice, external hard drives, and MP3 players. There is also an audio out and microphone in port allowing users to connect speakers or a microphone. The device also includes an Ethernet port which can connect directly to a network. Last, but not least, the Port Replicator has a VGA port for connecting an external monitor.

The unit does have its downsides, however. Video output is limited to a resolution of 1920×1080, and requires special display drivers to be installed in order to make the video over USB work. Sending video over USB is a somewhat intensive process that can cause some performance slowdowns and is not recommended for gamers or those who need very fast video performance.

Buyers who are tired of connecting and disconnecting many individual cables every time they use their laptop at a desk will find a lot to like about the HP USB Media Port Replicator. Gamers and those who use graphics-intensive programs may find it too limited for their use, however.

With so many laptops in the price range and class of the HP G42t, this model hasn’t gotten a lot of attention in HP’s press releases, and in fact, there is little to differentiate it from most in its class. What you do get for price, however, is a good combination of solid hardware and good design.

With its 14 inch diagonal BrightView LED display, the HP G42t is a little smaller than the more common 15 or 15.4 inch laptops in its class. This subtracts very little from screen size, still providing a resolution of 1366 x 768, but it does make it a bit more portable and lightweight. The machine measures 13.46 inches by 8.97 inches by 1.43 inches, and weighs only 4.85 pounds, making it a very portable solution. In fact, the lightweight design of the HP G42t might be one of its more appealing factors. You get a full-featured notebook with a larger screen than smaller netbooks, but only a little extra weight.

Battery life is solid, at up to 5.5 hours. Those looking for netbook-like battery life might consider a second battery as an option to extend its battery life through an entire work day.

Upgrade options abound, as the buyer can choose a variety of Dual Core Intel processors or even upgrade to Core i3 and i5 processors for even more speed. Memory up to 4 GB is supported, and hard drive sizes from 250 GB to 640 GB are available to customize to the buyer’s specific needs.

The HP G42t may not have the bells and whistles of more compelling laptop models, but it offers a good combination of performance and portability. Its smaller 14 inch screen and lightweight frame may appeal to those who need more than a netbook but don’t want a lot of extra weight.

The HP dm4t features impressive build quality with a metal chassis that seems stronger and less flexible than the majority of machines in HP’s lineup. The laptop measures 1.3 inches by 13.4 inches by 9 inches and weighs 5.3 pounds. The 14 inch monitor stands out among the typical 15 inch monitors in its class, but the choice of a smaller screen and chassis give it a little more portability and less weight, while the 1366×768 resolution still provides a sharp display.

Buyers have a choice of Intel Core i5 processors, which provide some of the fastest speeds available in a current laptop, and most configurations include 4 GB of RAM. A 320 GB hard drive comes standard, though choices are available up to 500 GB for those who require more storage.

Connectivity options abound, as the machines include both wired and wireless network support, up to 802.11n as well as Bluetooth. There is a card reader slot supporting most popular memory card formats, and two USB ports as well. The HP dm4t even includes an HDMI port for connecting directly to an HD television or other display, making it easy to use as a media center computer, watch movies, or share photos on a larger screen.

With so many great features for such a low price, the HP dm4t is an excellent value. Its sharp design and excellent build quality make it a solid choice for travelers and its smaller screen offers a bit more portability without sacrificing too much screen real estate.

The HP AT908AA has a power consumption rating of 93Wh. It measures 2 cm by 7.5 cm by 20.5 cm and weighs .48 kg. It is compatible with a wide range of HP laptops, but is mainly designed for the ProBook and EliteBook series. It is one of many options to consider when wishing to extend the battery life of these laptops.

Most of the laptops in these series include a standard 6-cell battery, which fits snugly in the battery compartment of the laptop. Users who wish to upgrade can choose a large 12-cell ultra-capacity battery that will add significantly to the battery life, but also adds a lot of extra bulk, making the laptop much less portable, as it will generally have to be used on a desk or table. Another option is HP’s extended life battery which can be used in addition to the standard battery. This model also adds bulk to the laptop, however.

The HP AT908AA, on the other hand, is larger than the original battery, offering up to 8-10 hours of battery life, but only adding a little extra bulk and weight, as it fits into the existing battery compartment while sticking out slightly farther than the standard battery. This makes it a good compromise for extra battery life while maintaining portability and not significantly altering the shape and usability of the laptop.

For buyers who want great battery life without the extra bulk of other offerings, the HP AT908AA is a great choice. Its relatively low price will help a user get through an entire work day without adding extra weight to a laptop bag.

1. For safety, shut down the laptop, remove the laptop’s battery, and disconnect all cables, including the power cable.

2. Turn the laptop over and remove the six screws located in the battery compartment.

3. Turn the laptop over and open the screen as far as possible. Remove the bezel above the keyboard, carefully, as it is attached by a ribbon cable underneath. Remove the ribbon cable and set the bezel aside.

4. Remove the 5 rubber seals around the display bezel, and the screws underneath each seal. You can then gently pry the display bezel and remove it.

5. Disconnect the backlight cable at the lower right of the screen. Remove three screws from each hinge on either side at the bottom of the screen. Tilt the LCD screen forward until you can access the video cable. Remove the tape and disconnect the video cable.

6. Remove the two screws on either side of the screen, which connects it to the hinge brackets, and remove the screen.

7. Remove the three screws below each hinge, which secure the hinge to the laptop chassis. Remove the hinge.

8. Put the replacement hinge in place and secure the three screws you just removed. Reverse the above instructions to reassemble the laptop.

Once the laptop is reassembled, test that the new hinge or hinges are working properly, and that all buttons above the keyboard are functioning. If everything is working properly, you have completed your repair.

The Dock and Case

Although they are included in the box, we would be remiss not to mention the excellent dock and case that come with the Slate in any list of essential accessories. The included dock provides additional connection options such as extra USB ports and an audio output jack, making it a great way to use the slate on a desk with ease, even with a keyboard and mouse.

External Optical Drive

One of the biggest criticisms of the iPad is its reliance on a host computer for many operations. Support for external optical drives makes it easy to install programs or even burn discs directly from the Slate, even on the go. This addition helps to blur the line between a tablet and a full-featured laptop.

Ethernet adapter

The Slate comes with great support for wireless standards, but many users may require or prefer a wired ethernet connection. HP’s USB ethernet adapter is designed for just this purpose. It provides wired ethernet when you need it, and can be disconnected and carried along when you don’t.

Wireless keyboard and mouse

While the touchscreen aspect of the Slate 500 is likely what most buyers prefer, there are times when a keyboard and mouse are necessary. It is a good idea to have a wireless keyboard and mouse for times when typing is a priority. In fact, with the extra USB connections on the dock, it is easy to keep these connected, ready to be used with the Slate whenever it is docked.

1. For safety, remove the laptop’s battery and disconnect the AC adapter and any cables connected to the laptop.

2. Flip the laptop over to access the bottom. Remove the two screws holding the memory access cover in place and remove the panel.

3. Remove the one black screw inside the memory access panel, two screws at the top right and left corner, and five screws inside the battery compartment.

4. Flip the laptop back over and open the lid. Gently begin to pry the plastic bezel above the keyboard up toward you. Be very gently to insure you don’t break any plastic tabs in the process. There are cables attached to the bottom of the bezel. You do not need to remove the bezel, simply lift it high enough to access the keyboard.

5. Pulling the top of the keyboard up toward you, lift the entire keyboard high enough to access the ribbon cable connecting it to the motherboard. Gently pull this cable up toward the screen to remove it.

6. Connect the new keyboard to this connector and slide the new keyboard into place. Replace the plastic bezel by snapping it into place.

7. Flip the laptop over and replace all screws and access panels.

Once the laptop is reassembled, replace the battery and reconnect the AC adapter. Boot up the computer and test the keyboard. If everything is functioning correctly, you are finished.

One of the most impressive features of the Compaq CQ56-110 is its small and lightweight design. While it doesn’t have the easy portability of a netbook, it measures just 9.7 inches by 14.7 inches by 1.5 inches and weighs only 5.6 pounds. For a laptop with a 15.6 inch screen, this makes it about as portable as you can get, and the LED backlit display supports a standard resolution of 1366 x 768.

Also included is a LightScribe DVD burner and the laptop supports wired networking as well as 802.11b/g/n wireless networking, making it easy to connect at home and on the road. The keyboard includes full-size keys, which will be good news to those with larger hands, and there are a number of one-touch keys for functions such as brightness and volume, as well as media functions.

The main disappointment of the Compaq CQ56-110 may be that it is a bit underpowered compared to many competing models. It includes an Intel Celeron 900 processor at 2.2 GHz. This processor will not perform as well as the dual-core processors available in many 15 inch laptops, though its inclusion helps keep the cost low. The graphics accelerator is also integrated, sharing memory with the rest of the system. Considering the laptop comes pre-installed with Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit edition, this could result in much slower performance, especially with the advanced graphics features enabled.

The Compaq CQ56-110 is a very solid laptop that features a sharp screen, plenty of hard drive space, and some nice extras. Buyers will need to consider whether the Celeron processor and shared video memory is likely to slow down the tasks they perform every day, but overall, it is a good value for shoppers on a tight budget.

The design of the HP Mini 210 is certainly compact. It measures 10.5 inches by 6.9 inches by 1.1 inches, and weighs only 3 pounds, making it very easy to carry in a briefcase or even a large purse. In fact, its small size will be the main reason most buyers consider it, but does it have the power to handle the programs most users will need?

Under the hood, the 210 has a 1.66 MHz Intel Atom N450 processor and 1 GB of RAM, which is not expandable. It also includes a 160 GB hard drive, which is quite reasonable for a compact netbook. Its processor and memory configuration should be enough power for most average users, though it may slow down on larger applications like Photoshop, making it more suited to basic web-surfing and email.

The laptop includes Windows 7 Starter Edition. While many netbooks opt for Windows XP because it tends to perform better, the inclusion of Windows 7 also keeps users more up-to-date. The Starter Edition does away with many of the more impressive visual effects, however, and slims down parts of the operating system. These changes tend to improve performance, especially on less powerful machines like the 210, but could be disappointing for buyers expecting the full Windows 7 experience.

All in all, the HP Mini 210 is a solid netbook with good performance and a great design. Its focus on portability keeps it very lightweight, although its battery life is not as long as others in its class, reducing its portability somewhat. The inclusion of Windows 7 Starter Edition might be an issue for some buyers.

1. The Box

The easiest place to find your model number or serial number is often the box your laptop came in. If you still have your original box, look for a sticker, which usually displays the product’s model number and serial number. The serial number is usually a 10-digit number, and both are usually clearly marked.

2. The Laptop’s Sticker

If you don’t have your original box, close the lid of your laptop and turn it over. On the bottom of the laptop there will usually be a sticker with the serial number clearly marked. Again, it should be a 10-digit number for most HP laptops. Many HP laptops also have the model number listed on this sticker, or at a different location on the bottom of the laptop.

3. Your Receipt

If you still have the receipt from when you purchased your laptop, the model number and serial number may be listed there as well. This often depends on your point of purchase, however, as to whether or not it is printed on the paper receipt.

Using the methods above, you should have been able to locate your model number and serial number. If none of these methods worked for you, you should contact HP directly for support, as they may have more advanced methods of tracking your serial number and your model number.

Once you have the correct type of RAM, installing it is extremely easy. The 5103 is designed for easy access to upgradeable components, making the memory upgrade a job that can be handled by almost anyone.

Here are the necessary steps:

1. Turn off the laptop, disconnect all cables and the AC adapter, and remove the battery by pulling apart the two spring-loaded sliders on each side.

2. Now pinch together the same two sliders in the opposite direction. This will pop open the memory access panel. Lift up and remove the access panel.

3. Press gently on the memory module and it will flip up slightly. Gently pull it out of its slot.

4. Slide the new memory module into the slot at a 45-degree angle, similar to how you pulled out the previous module. Make sure the pins and notch line up correctly. Once the module is seated in the slot, gently press down on it to lock it into place. It should stay flat.

5. Line the slots of the access panel back up and press down to lock it into place.

6. Replace the battery, plug in the AC adapter, and power up the computer.

At this point, you should verify that the operating system is registering the correct amount of RAM. If so, you are done, and can enjoy the performance boost provided by your upgrade.

While the iPad is generally aimed at consumers for home and travel use, HP is targeting mainly business users with the Slate 500. This could certainly be a good thing, as Apple has recently admitted that the iPad is becoming more and more popular with business users.

The Slate is also more of a traditional computer, with an SD card slot and USB port on its body, and two additional USB ports and an HDMI port in the dock once connected. This extra connectivity allows it to interact with more accessories and other devices than the iPad, which is more of a self-contained unit. It runs on a 1.86GHz Intel Atom Z540 processor and contains 2 GB of RAM. Its 64 GB SSD hard drive provides adequate space for most uses.

The Slate 500 runs Windows rather than a specialized operating system. This is likely to be both a major benefit and a major downside. On the one hand, using Windows allows a greater level of compatibility and access to a wide world of software, but without a specifically-designed interface for touch-screen interaction. Although Windows has some limited support for touch interfaces, buyers expecting the kind of integrated interface of the iPad will likely be disappointed. We may see versions of the Slate 500 in the future with an improved interface, but for now, the Windows version is the only choice.

Despite its comparisons to the iPad, the HP Slate 500 could become very popular with business users, and more competition in the tablet market will encourage all manufacturers to improve their products. It remains to be seen whether business users will embrace the Slate.

For one thing, touch screen displays are a lot easier to navigate than even using a traditional mouse. With a touch screen, you simply have to touch what you want to select or interact with, and it’s done. This also allows users to do more delicate tasks than they could with a mouse, as the touch of a finger is easier to coordinate than moving an external mouse to influence the graphical cursor. Eliminating the accommodation for a mouse also frees up hardware space on your laptop, allowing for the keyboard to expand to a fuller size, making it easier to type than on a regular machine.

In fact, the exclusion of a mouse and therefore mouse accessories (such as room for a mouse pad, or a touch pad, or extra USB or serial ports), actually has the potential to lower the production costs of these machines, which in turn makes them more affordable for consumers. Indeed, as more and more touch screen laptops make their way onto the market, prices are continually dropping and becoming even more accessible for users.

Touch screen laptops also add the convenience of features that traditional laptops cannot. For example, students can use a stylus with their touch screen computers and physically write down their notes on their computers, which can be run through text-recognition software and converted to type, or manipulated by a note taking program that can allow them to manipulate and organize their notes in ways traditional pen and paper nor traditional laptops could. It’s also worth noting that many touch screen laptops also include the functionality of having the LCD screen swivel around to essentially make the machine a convertible Tablet PC, which is an added bonus and makes the machine even more portable and easier to work with.

The first step, as with any laptop repair, is to remove both your Laptop AC adapter and notebook battery from your machine. On the HP dv9000, slide and hold the battery release latch to the release position, and lift the front edge of the battery to remove it from your machine. Next, using a Phillips-head screwdriver, remove the 7 mm screw that secures your optical drive in your machine. The drive should slide easily out of the base enclosure.

Once you have obtained your new drive from a spare parts retailer or the manufacturer, insert your new optical drive into the base enclosure until the connector is firmly seated. Be firm, but delicate. These connectors are vital to the entire function of your drive, and so must be securely seated without damaging their components. Once seated, replace the screw to secure your drive into the base enclosure.

Replace your battery and/or AC adapter and boot your machine. Follow any instructions included with your optical drive for installation of appropriate drivers and software. It is also always a good idea to visit the website of your drive’s manufacturer and check for any updated drivers or software available for your particular machine to bring it up to date with the latest operating systems and software or hardware developments. Completing installation may require a system restart, but should have you up and running fairly quickly.

The laptop comes standard with some features made to work with your battery to improve its life, and your control over your machine’s power functions. HP Power Assistant allows the user to monitor their system’s power consumption and needs, and adjust settings to conserve power and stretch battery life.

The 8440 has available HP Long Life, Ultra-Capacity, and Extended Life batteries. The HP Ultra Capacity battery can provide up to a staggering twenty four hours of battery life when properly configured. The Ultra Capacity battery itself is a 12-cell lithium ion battery with a separate DC jack, meaning you can charge the battery separately from the rest of your machine. It provides 10 hours of battery life on its own, however this battery mounts beneath your machine in conjunction with your existing battery. This means that on a full charge, you can use this battery until drained, and then your machine will automatically revert to pulling power from its installed battery.

HP also offers a similar docking Extended Life 8-cell battery which offers up to 6 hours of life on a single charge. While this battery doesn’t offer the superior lasting power of the Ultra Capacity battery, it cuts the weight of your extended battery down by almost half, and offers the convenience of charging while your laptop is docked.

For standard installation batteries, HP offers a 6-cell lithium ion battery capable of 6 hours of battery life as well as a 9-cell lithium ion battery. For those who intend to keep their machines for a long time to come, HP also offers an Extended Life 6-cell lithium ion battery which has an overall lifespan of up to three years, twice the typical staying power of a laptop battery.

First, do a quick cable check. If you are using a desktop computer, check the cable connections from the back of your tower, to your router (if you have one), to your modem, and finally to your wall. All connections should be tight and secure. If you’re using a laptop on a wireless connection, you should still check the cables from your router, to the modem, and finally to the wall. Also, while you’re checking your modem, check its status lights. Is it sending and receiving information? If it isn’t, you may need to contact your internet service provider.

Another simple cause of connectivity issues that happens more frequently than you’d think is actually having the wireless card enabled. Most laptops will have either a button or switch right near the keyboard to toggle the wireless card on and off. Check that this is in the “on” position. If this doesn’t fix the problem, go into your computer’s device manager and check the status of the wireless card. It may not be functioning properly, or may have been disabled manually while your wireless switch remained in the “on” position.

When in doubt, restart your modem and your router. Sometimes, they just get stuck. Routers are notoriously sensitive machines, and the tiniest thing can throw them off. Usually, unplugging either of these devices for about 10 seconds and then plugging them back in gets them to refresh themselves, which in itself can sometimes fix whatever problem you may be having.

If none of these things work, contact your internet service provider. Many times their technicians will be glad to assist you in checking everything over, and they can double check and confirm the status of your internet service as well.

This laptop weighs in at only 3.24 pounds, and measures only 0.78 inches in the front, making it incredibly convenient for toting in a backpack, shoulder bag, or just about anywhere you need it to go without any hassle. The dm1z series also has an 11.6 inch HD LED BrightView Widescreen display, larger than average netbooks, making it easier on your eyes and giving you that little extra space to organize your files and windows for your work.

These machines come equipped with AMD Neo mobile processors (upgradable to optional dual core processor for those with heavier workloads), 2 GB standard up to 4 GB upgradeable DDR3 RAM and a 250 GB SATA hard drive for ample file storage. You can also add an External CD/DVD drive for software installation, or get the external Blu-Ray player to take advantage of the dm1z’s HD content playback. This machine also comes with HP’s standard superior quality Altec Lansing speakers. Also, due to its incredible size and build, this machine can run for 5.25 hours on its 6-cell lithium ion rechargeable battery.

For those on the go, this machine is built to accommodate. It comes standard with a VGA webcam built in to keep you connected on the road with friends and family, has integrated Wireless-N and optional mobile broadband with Qualcomm Gobi2 for broadband speeds wherever you go, as well as VGA, HDMI, 3 USB, and a 5-in-1 digital media reader to help you connect to whatever you need to, wherever you are.

Since you’ll no doubt be toting your HP netbook with you everywhere you go, the first thing you might want to buy is a carrying case. HP even makes sleeves suited to the size of your netbook, eliminating the need for a full size bag like many laptops require. Not only that, but these sleeves are incredibly affordable, with some retailing for even below $20.

Netbooks also benefit very nicely from some more power options. If you’re road tripping with your netbook, you might want to pick up HP’s Mini 40W Vehicle Power Adapter. It’s perfect for keeping your machine charged and powered while you browse your favorite songs, files, or other media on the road.

As long as you’re upgrading your power options, you might also look into an extended life battery, for those long days of classes when you’re spending a large chunk of time away from any outlets. An extended life battery can keep you in business for a good few hours longer, saving you from missing those vital notes you need.

One common thing netbooks cut out to help reduce their size is the optical drive, or CD/DVD drive. Luckily HP makes a great USB connected external 8 x DVDRW Dual layer drive, which is perfect for most people’s needs. They’re great to leave on your desk at home to plug into your netbook if you find yourself needing to install some software on a disc, or burn a CD or DVD for a presentation.

A USB travel mouse is also a great buy for HP Mini owners. HP offers one that plugs into your netbook almost undetectably and communicates wirelessly, so there’s no mess and tangle for you to deal with. The USB connector is so small in fact, that you don’t even need to take it out when it’s time to pack up the netbook and jet, you can just leave it attached for your next class.

When looking to replace the battery on an HP laptop, you’ll first want to locate your model number. If you flip the laptop upside down, there is a white sticker that lists pertinent information to the build of your machine. Here you will find the exact number of your product, for example “HP Compaq 6735s” or “HP Pavilion dv9000t”. Then, beneath your product number, you will see a series of digits and characters listed after “p/n:” Record the numbers here, up to the “#” which denotes the end of the model number. With these, you can search at an online retailer or local shop and find a replacement that is compatible with your machine.

If you are looking for an exact replacement for your battery, or are unable to identify your exact machine, remove the battery from the machine and flip it over. On the underside of the battery will be a white sticker listing the exact part number of the component, which you can then take to a retailer or online store and order an exact replacement for your part.

If you are ordering a battery for a backup, be sure to store the battery charged at 40% capacity in a cool, dry place between zero and sixty degrees Celsius, or 32 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, switch your main battery and secondary battery periodically to make sure both remain in working order for years to come.

This machine is geared incredibly well toward movie streaming, DVD viewing, and video game playing. With an impressive graphics card, a 1080p Hi-Def 16:9 aspect ratio monitor that is huge by notebook standards, and the RAM and processor speeds to make full use of both, this machine is capable of amazing detail with crisp textures and amazing color depth. This machine also delivers home theater quality audio to back up its amazing display capabilities. The wonderful thing about all this being in a laptop is you can take it on the go and hook it up to any other display as well with its handy audio connectors and HDMI output to enjoy your media on any newer big screen, or just at your friend’s house.

But this machine isn’t just a powerhouse for your media. Packaged with Windows 7 64-bit, this machine is built around being able to do anything your old desktop could do, and maybe even better. If you have the cash, upgrading to the quad core processor will put you on the cutting edge of market technology. Couple that with HP offering a free upgrade to 6 GBs of RAM, and your friends will be playing catch up to your new toy for quite some time. To put the RAM in perspective, 2 GBs is about what you need to run typical software out there today, 4 GB will have you sitting pretty and able to handle the big new stuff coming out. 6 GBs right now is just ready for whatever’s coming for at least the rest of this year.

One thing to be aware of though, this is not going to replace your school laptop. Weighing in at almost nine pounds, this machine will destroy your shoulder trying to lug it around, and eat through its battery like nothing (even with the nice 8-cell battery that comes standard with the machine). If you’re looking for something to take back and forth, you may want to look into a netbook for classes and notes, in addition to this bad boy. That way no matter what you need to do, you’ve got the best machine for the job.

The first thing you’ll want to do is identify your machine, with a model number if possible. Typically, this will be displayed on the underside of the laptop on a white sticker called the service tag. If you’re not sure what is what on this sticker, write it all down. The model number identifies your machine, and the product number narrows it down even more.

If you are unable to find your specific model number, you may need to remove the LCD itself and find a part number on it. To do so, look at the front of your monitor. It will either have screws or caps along the edge facing you as if you were using the machine. If it has caps these can be removed simply by popping them off with a tool. Remove the screws beneath around the perimeter of the screen. Then, take a corner of the bezel (the part of your computer case surrounding the monitor itself) and carefully remove the entire face and set aside. Now at the bottom of your laptop, you should see screws on the hinges which will also need to be removed, carefully. Once this is done you should be able to lower the monitor itself face down to the keyboard, revealing its backside, which will list its specific part number.

If you do attempt to do this at home, be sure to remove the AC adapter and the battery. Remember always, safety first. If you are not comfortable with doing this, take your machine to a local repair shop, or contact your manufacturer for further assistance.

When shopping for replacement LCDs, there are a number of specifications of which to be cognizant. First and foremost will be size. Especially when purchasing a new laptop monitor, you will be locked into a specific size, so make sure your new monitor will fit your machine properly. Aspect ratio refers to the height and width of display, for example a 16:9 would be considered a widescreen display format. Resolution is typically the gold standard of performance rating. The higher the resolution, the more pixels the monitor will display. More pixels allow for a sharper, crisper image. Most common displays run at WXGA or XGA, depending on the aspect ratio. There are many other specifications that come in to play that you may wish to discuss with a computer repair shop or retailer, but those listed above will be the most influential to the quality and function of your display.

Here are a few of the methods you can use to find your laptop’s serial number.

The Manufacturer’s Label

Most HP and Compaq laptops have a label affixed to the bottom of the laptop itself which give the serial number. In many cases, there is also a separate label for your Windows activation code, which is not related. This sticker will usually list the product number or model number of your laptop, and have a 10-digit number labeled “Serial No.”. This is your serial number. It may be helpful to write this number down in a safe place in the event that your sticker is lost.

HP’s Website

If you are using the machine itself, you can go to HP’s support website to download a piece of software that will check your laptop’s serial number for you. Since HP has merged with Compaq, this will work for both HP and Compaq laptops.

Windows

You can usually check your laptop’s serial number within Windows. Right-click on My Computer and choose Properties. Under the “General” tab, you should see your serial number listed under “Support Information”.

Receipts

If none of these methods reveal your serial number, look on your original purchase receipts. In many cases, the serial number will be listed on the receipt itself.

The notebook is very configurable, offering numerous customization options to fit the varying needs of buyers. There is a choice of powerful AMD processors which provide fast speed and low power consumption, helping to promote longer battery life. Buyers have a choice of 2GB, 3GB, or 4GB of DDR3 system memory depending on their needs. The average user can choose less memory or the high-end user can max out at 4GB for better performance when running multimedia applications or for gaming. The machine includes Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit edition, allowing the operating system to utilize all of the available memory.

Hard drive options range from 250GB to 500GB in a variety of drives that support either 5400 RPM or 7200 RPM speeds. The ATI Mobility Radeon graphics options provide great support for gaming or multimedia applications, and some options even include an HDMI support for outputting to an HDTV.

The 15.6 inch high-definition LED Brightview display has a resolution of 1366×768 and provides bright and clear images. The LED backlighting uses less power than previous technologies, extending battery life.

Multimedia options abound as well. Users have a choice of DVD burners with support for dual-layer discs and Lightscribe technology. For an additional price, users can also opt for a Blu-Ray reader or even a Blu-Ray burner, though this is an expensive option, as it is with any laptop currently.

Home or business users who want a classic laptop with a straightforward design at a great price will love the Compaq Presario CQ62Z series. It has the multimedia features and performance a user needs, and customization options allow buyers to pay for only the features they want.

Not all laptop models are alike, and some models may require different steps for replacement. It is a good idea to consult the manual or a service manual for your specific model for more detailed instructions.

Here are the basic steps for installing an HP CD/DVD/DVDRW replacement:

1. Disconnect the AC power adapter and remove the battery to ensure there is no power going to the laptop, to reduce any risk of electric shock. It is also a good idea to use an anti-static wrist band to minimize the risk of damage from static electricity. Slide the battery latch to release the battery and gently pull it toward you to remove it.

2. For most models, removing the drive is very simple. On the bottom of the laptop, look for a screw located near the back of the optical drive. Remove this screw.

3. The original drive likely has a plastic bezel on the exterior that has the button to eject the drive tray. This may or may not have to be moved over to the replacement drive.

4. If applicable, transfer the drive bezel to the new drive and any other brackets that are attached to the original drive that are not present on the replacement. The idea is to make the replacement drive look exactly like the original drive did when you removed it.

5. Replace any screws that were used to mount the drive into the machine and check to ensure that the drive is secure and will no longer slide or move around inside the notebook.

6. Replace the battery, reconnect the power, boot up the laptop and test the drive.

Be sure to test reading and writing a number of different media types to ensure all functions work correctly. If the drive is working correctly than you are finished. If you continue to have problems you will want to further troubleshoot your machine. Check out our other articles for helpful hints and guides.

Despite its 17 inch screen size, the 4720s is very portable. It weighs only 6.8 pounds and measures a very compact 16.2 inches by 10.5 inches by 1.1 inches. This makes it an excellent choice for users who travel or who need more portability but don’t want to sacrifice a larger screen size and extra computing power.

It features a full keyboard with a full 10 key numeric keypad, but the keys are a little small, potentially causing unnecessary errors for some typists.

Overall, the HP ProBook 4720s offers performance and speed almost comparable to a desktop replacement model at a fraction of the size and weight. Its affordable price will appeal to budget-conscious buyers, but very few sacrifices have been made to achieve its low price, making it an excellent value for the money.

The HP Mini 2102 is built for travel, and aims to tackle some of the major issues inherent in working on the road. It includes a CloudDrive, which is a way for users to sync their data with network storage, ensuring that files are backed up and synchronized at all times. This can protect against data loss caused by theft or equipment failure, and ensure that your files are accessible from nearly any location. In addition to syncing over the internet, it can also sync with a computer on the same wireless network with the included QuickSync software. This is useful for synching files with a home or work desktop computer before or after traveling.

Despite its small size and compact design, there is also a 5-in-1 digital media slot for memory cards and other media. The netbook also has a GPS option when purchasing, for those who wish to use it for navigation or geo-tagging.

The design of the HP Mini 2102 is very striking. Its case is sleek and modern, with an imprint finish on the top that is subtle but very sharp-looking. It is available in a few different colors for personalization. The unit is 1 inch thick and weighs only 2.69 pounds, so it is ideal for a traveler who needs to reduce weight in a travel bag.

Overall, the HP Mini 2102 has a lot to offer in a very compact and lightweight package. Its performance and speed are excellent for the price, and the included synching software keeps files safe and up-to-date with very little effort.

At the heart of the Mini 5102 is a 1.66 GHZ Intel Atom N450 processor. This processor is known for being not only powerful, but very efficient, drawing very little power compared to larger processors, which results in much longer battery life.

Speaking of battery life, its battery lasts for over 3 hours even under heavy use, and much longer for casual use. In addition, and optional 6-cell battery is available as an upgrade for even longer battery life. For a netbook so small, it would be impossible to include a full-size keyboard. HP gets around this by varying the size of certain keys, so that the most important keys are nearly full-size, while less important keys are tucked out of the way, without taking up too much space. The machine also incorporates a number of function keys, which have multiple functions when pressed along with the Function key. This also helps save space.

Nearly every aspect of the Mini 5102 can be upgraded with options. Its 160GB hard drive can be upgraded for more storage. Its 1GB of RAM can be upgraded as well. Unfortunately, many of these upgrades are expensive, taking what is generally a very affordable machine and adding extra costs very quickly.

The screen is a 10.1 inch widescreen display, at a resolution of 1024 by 600. This is a decent resolution with a very bright and vivid look, but not as sharp of a resolution as some competing models.

Overall, the HP Mini 5102 will appeal most to users who need a powerful laptop but also value portability. With its lightweight and compact design, it makes a great travel companion, as long as the price of upgrades doesn’t turn buyers away.

One of the most impressive features of the HP ProBook 4520s is its full-size keyboard. While many laptops include a small keyboard, sometimes with smaller-than-average keys, The ProBook 4520s manages to fit not only a full-size keyboard, but even a numeric keypad, which will be particularly appealing to users who do a lot of calculations or number entry on a daily basis.

The machine includes a choice of Intel Core i7, i5, i3 or Celeron processor depending on your needs, and can include up to 8 GB of RAM and a 500 GB 7200 RPM hard drive. All of this adds up to a lot of muscle for a business-oriented machine.

The laptop comes with Windows 7 preinstalled, but some buyers may be disappointed that only the 32-bit version is included. Using the 64-bit version is supported, but there is no option to have it preinstalled, so users will have to install it themselves. For most users, however, the 32-bit version should suit their needs.

The machine’s 15.6 inch screen supports a resolution up to 1366×768 for sharp HD image quality. The total weight of the machine is 5.26 pounds. Despite its full-size keyboard, it is very compact, measuring only 14.6 by 9.8 by 1.09 inches, which makes it very portable for traveling and other situations where mobility is a must.

Overall, the HP ProBook 4520s is a great choice for the business user who needs solid performance. Its full-size keyboard is a blessing for number crunchers, and its compact and lightweight frame makes it easy to use on the go.

1. It is not a bad idea to back up important data in case something goes wrong. Shut down the HP laptop and remove the battery. Also, unplug the laptop from the wall to ensure no power is going to the machine.

2. With the screen closed, flip the laptop over and find the RAM access door. In most cases, it will be marked with a picture of a RAM stick. If you cannot find the access door, check the user manual for your HP laptop.

3. Unscrew the access door and remove it from the laptop.

4. The memory has clips holding it in. In some models these clips need to be opened to the sides. In other models you must press on the memory and it will swing out toward you to be removed. Remove the memory by gently but firmly pulling it toward you.

5. Replace the new memory in the same slot as the old memory. Make sure the notch at the bottom of the memory stick matches the notch in the slot and gently but firmly slide it into the slot.

6. Replace the securing clips if necessary for your model of laptop. Swing the memory back into place if necessary for your model.

7. Replace the access door and any screws.

8. Replace the battery, power up the HP laptop, and verify that the correct capacity of memory is being recognized.

Replacing memory is a very simple process that can be safely performed by most users, but it is always a good idea to consult your user manual for the location of the access door and specific information on how to replace the memory for your model of laptop.

The next step in notebook hard drive replacement for HP, is to loosen the two Phillips-head screws securing the hard drive cover to the bottom of the notebook. With a flat-edged tool, lift the inside edge of the HP laptop hard drive cover, and remove the unit. Remove the two additional Phillips-head screws that secure the hard drive to the HP laptop enclosure.

Then, before the replacement of the notebook hard drive for HP devices, slide the hard disk drive toward the outside edge of the enclosure, and disconnect the hard drive from the system board connector. HP laptop hard drives should be carefully slid out of the enclosure, and placed in a static dissipative package. After the unit is removed, the installation of the replacement notebook hard drive for HP devices can be performed.

New HP laptop hard drives should be supplied in its own, static-free packaging, and ready for installation. To insert the new hard drive, push the unit toward the inside of the enclosure until the connector is seated properly. Replace the two Phillips-head screws that secure HP hard drives to the base enclosure. Also replace the hard disk cover, onto the enclosure, and snap the outside edges into position. Once the screws are replaced, the battery can be re-inserted, and the notebook hard drive replacement for an HP device is complete.

Dell laptop batteries are made with Lithium-ion technology, in 6-, 9-, and 12-cell formats. Lithium-Ion batteries are light-weight, have high charge-capacity, and require minimal “Conditioning” procedures. It is immensely important to condition Lithium-ion batteries for Dell laptops, every two to three weeks. This can prevent the battery life from depleting, and maximizes the replacement Dell battery’s performance.

If replacement laptop batteries go without routine conditioning, it can result in significantly a shorter battery life. Failure to use the proper AC adapter, with Dell laptop batteries, can also be hazardous. It can potentially create permanent damage to the battery, notebook, or both units. The battery can become dependent on the charger in order to function, and fail to retain any amount of battery life. Using the proper AC adapter helps to ensure optimal performance of the replacement battery for Dell devices.

Dell laptop batteries are CE Certified, through third party test laboratories and certification bodies. The CE seal of approval, certifies that the battery replacements for Dell notebooks have met EU consumer safety, health, and environmental requirements. The CE marking is mandatory on all products sold within the 27 countries of the EU, as well as with all countries that are members of the European Economic Area (EEA).

Since laptop computer batteries are rechargeable batteries, they also undergo a self-discharge when unused for extended amounts of time. Often, new laptop batteries are equipped with internal microprocessor circuits, that optimize the management of battery energy. These batteries are called “Smart Batteries” and also set the charger to the correct charge algorithm, predict running time, and provide a state-of-charge (SoC) indication. There are three primary forms of laptop computer batteries, Nickel Cadmium (NiCd), Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH), and Lithium Ion (LiON).

NiCd notebook batteries were the first rechargeable batteries ever manufactured for laptop computers, and were relatively inexpensive, with high outputs. NiMH batteries were then released, and can still be seen on various laptop notebooks. They easily surpassed NiCd laptop batteries in reliability, cost, safety and capacity. The recently developed LiON batteries have become the most popular with today’s manufacturers, and are much lighter in weight than its predecessors.

To maintain optimal performance with laptop computer batteries, it is important to make sure that the  metal connecters are cleaned and free from damage. Also, avoid leaving the device powered-on overnight while charging. The laptop should be turned off occasionally, and it can be damaging to the notebook’s battery, to be continuously charging while powered on. When the device is shut down and powered-off, it is suggested to connect the power cable, to keep the internal battery cells moving at all times.

As TV evolves with recently released 3-Dimensional Television display, Laptop and desktop monitors have been taken to the next level as well. The Sony Vaio AR Digital Studio provides its users with a magnificent, HD quality, video experience. It is fully equip with an HDMI port for complete compatibility with HD TVs and monitors. It also comes with availability for SD Memory cards and Express card expansion. To top it all off, the AR Digital Studio has a luxurious integrated camera with amazing quality and 3 USB ports.



With the release of the AR Digital Studio, Sony has been able to grasp the attention of gamers everywhere. It provides the superior power and versatility of a Mac Book Pro, and compatibility with the grand selection of games for PC only. Everything a gamer needs to overcome the difficulties of “lag” and under-qualified hardware is integrated into the new Sony VAIO at a lower cost to the customer than any of the specialized manufacturers. Now, MMO RPGs are smoother than ever and the beautiful graphics from the heavily detailed, first person shooters can be pushed to the limits.

What can you do with the TX2Z’s touch screen? With the same technology made famous by the iPhone and iPod touch, you can easily control objects on the screen by making gestures with multiple fingers at once. Also, users can make an “M” shape with two fingers to launch HP MediaSmart and its touch-enabled media programs. The TX2500Z has a slightly more restrictive touch screen that you could tap on to make selections, but you cannot make any finger gestures.



The TX2Z comes with a unique stylus that is hidden on the right side of the laptops body, close to the front of the keyboard. With the tablet’s handwriting recognition software the notebook deciphers your written words with incredible precision. It reads cursive handwriting as well, and hardly any pressure needs to be applied while writing. Entire words can even disappear completely when they are heavily crossed out.



The HP Pavilion Tablet comes with a 12.1-inch (1280 x 800) display. The picture is consistent at vertical angles, and watching a movie at almost a 180-degree angle horizontally is easily possible. The HP Pavilion Tablet is readily available with SRS Premium Sound audio technology and Altec Lansing speakers for a high quality entertainment experience.

Fingerprint scanning is an effective means of security. It is also one of the best ways of keeping prying eyes off of classified information being held on your laptop. Protect your hard drive, and remove the need to remember multiple passwords. Hundreds of large corporations are investing in the implementation of biometric scanner requirements. This technology has been proven to be the most reliable form of security for any laptop, personal or business.



Enhance your management by adding an additional layer of network security. Fingerprint readers provide convenience and a sense of security that can be found nowhere else. They supply a variety of uses and enhance workflow to be quicker and smoother than ever. The uses of fingerprint readers on laptops are endless and provide more than just security for sensitive information. Web access, wireless authentication, and simplified password storage reduce the complexity of consistent use.



Wifi has become one of the standard features on laptop computers, and to keep out unwanted infiltration at wireless hotspots, hardware-based options like fingerprint readers have been introduced to increase the security of personal information. Increases in the reports of stolen laptops have been a strong motivation for manufacturers to incorporate this highly reliable feature into laptops everywhere. Hackers are also getting smarter and software has proven to be uses against their tactics. Now, the guaranteed security of a fingerprint reader on personal laptops can put ease to the distress you have over the possible loss of vital information.

The battery of the VAIO VGN FZ21E provides a sufficient capacity for mobile use and has an exceptionally low temperature emission. HP has also provided an HDMI port that makes this new notebook fully equip for High Definition media entertainment. The Sony Vaio FZ21E is obviously optimized for perfection, with its great office task abilities and low heat emission.



Another magnificent version of the Sony Vaio is almost completely directed toward college students. The VGN NR160E has tons of hard drive space peaking at 160GB, and offers a solid computing experience for an unbelievable price. It comes with an Intel Core 2 Duo T5250 dual core mobile processor for the fastest level of performance without using too much power. This allows for less stress on your computer and smaller chances of overheating.



Sony is known for providing the best LCD panels on the market, and the VGN NR160E is no exception. The color and contrast are remarkable and have the same great quality of the high resolution notebooks offered at more expensive prices. At such an inexpensive price, the Vaio VGN NR160E gives students the ability to have a top of the line computer for one of the most inexpensive prices.

This remarkable technology, called LightScribe, uses a compatible recorder and software, to form visible marks on face of CDs and DVDs. These special discs have a thermal-sensitive coating of leuco dye on their top that causes a reaction when they become exposed to infrared radiation. Through an amazing chemical reaction, you can now burn a disc, then flip it over, and put it back into the recorder to create customized designs. All this is easily performed by the same exact laser that is inside your DVD recorder.



Lightscribe discs are about the same price as the name brand media on shelves today. The speed at which the print is made ranges between 6 minutes and 30 minutes, based on the quality and complexity of the design. HP has also promised that the speed will increase as much as 50%, within the next year. This is said to be accomplished with newly developed coating on the face of the disc to maintain compatibility with previously released Lightscribe devices.



Many of the current laptops and desktops come fully-equip with Lightscribe enabled recorders. They are available through a variety of different companies, and are no more expensive than the current DVD recorders available today. It is an incredibly convenient labeling system and there is always a guarantee that your recorded media will work, unlike the often defective quality of cheaper compact discs.

The Mini 1000 XP is HP’s newest ultra-portable laptop (or netbook). It is designed to be as compact and portable as possible, for users who value a small size over power. There are two versions of the Mini 1000, the XP version and the Mi version. Mi refers to HP’s mobile internet software platform, a lightweight alternative to Windows. The Mi software has received much criticism and most users will probably want to choose the Windows XP version, which allows you to install any Windows software you wish, whereas the Mi software does not.

The choice of Windows XP may seem strange when Windows Vista is Microsoft’s newest operating system. However, the HP 2133 laptop, predecessor to the HP Mini 1000, included Windows Vista, but was often slow and sluggish, as the netbook did not have enough power to adequately meet Vista’s minimum hardware requirements. This is actually common in netbooks, where power is secondary to portability, and HP learned its lesson and now includes XP for the mini 1000 notbook model.

At just 2.25 pounds, and measuring 10.3 x 6.56 inches, this is a very light and portable netbook. The case design is plastic, which reduces the weight and is often more resistant to scratches than the aluminum case designs of other laptops. Intel’s Atom N270 processor is included, which provides adequate power for the primary uses of a netbook: email and web-surfing. Don’t expect to do any gaming or intense media editing, as this is not what netbooks are designed to do.

Overall, the HP Mini 1000 XP is a well-designed, lightweight netbook that will suit the needs of anyone who wants values portability. The choice of Windows XP over Vista is an improvement over the previous model, and will improve the performance by not burdening the processor with unnecessary software features.

The Pavilion dv7t is a laptop built for entertainment. High-quality picture and sound is the focus here, with the a multitude of upgrade options that include Blu-Ray drives, ATI Mobility Radeon graphics cards, and high-definition display options. Other features include an integrated subwoofer, for better bass response, integrated webcam, and an optional HDTV tuner for receiving over-the-air HD television broadcasts. Add to this the HDMI video output for connecting to an High-Definition display, and the laptop can double as your media center in the living room.

The dv7t notebook features a choice of dual-core processors from 2.0 to 2.66 GHZ for extra muscle. RAM options range from 2 to 8 GB, and hard drive options include SATA drives from 500GB to 1TB for all the high-definition content users will want to store. The ATI Mobility Radeon graphics options provide good video and gaming performance, but hardcore gamers might want to look at a true desktop replacement system such as the HDX series for more performance. Most casual gamers, however, will be quite satisfied.

At 7.74 pounds, it comes in about average on weight for this performance class. The 17.3” screen may make it somewhat large for some users, but for good reason. The high-definition 17.3” is bright and sharp, making it perfect for watching movies or HDTV, viewing photos, or gaming.

Overall, the HP dv7t is an impressive entertainment laptop with nice extras and a great variety of upgrade options to suit most users needs. Students, media buffs, and casual gamers will find a lot to like, and only the most hardcore gamers are likely to find it underpowered.

The Presario CQ60Z is a fairly compact 15” laptop geared for the average home or business user, who doesn’t need the bells and whistles or the extra processing power of more expensive laptops. Affordably priced, the base configuration starts at around $449, and multiple configuration options allow the user to choose their own hardware priorities.

The main selling point of the Presario CQ60Z, apart from its affordability, is likely the number of configuration options. One of the The laptop comes with your choice of AMD processors, from 2.1GHZ to 2.3GHZ, and hard drive options from 160GB to 500GB. There is also a choice of DVD drives, from a standard dual-layer burning drive or a Lightscribe drive. Users can also choose to have a webcam included, for use in Skype and other videoconferencing applications.

The base configuration includes Windows Vista Home Basic, but for $30 more, you can upgrade to Vista Home Premium. This is a recommended upgrade as Home Basic does not include many of the improvements Microsoft advertises for Vista. At 1GB or RAM in the base configuration, most users will want to upgrade to at least 2GB, as it is the recommended minimum for Vista.

While the configuration options abound, one area that may be lacking for some users is the processor. With only AMD processors to choose from, those who prefer Intel for its lower heat and often better performance may tend to look elsewhere. Of course, the choice of AMD processors is likely what has kept the laptop so affordable.

Overall, the Presario CQ60Z is a solid laptop with numerous configuration options and a compact design that should make it a good choice for most users. Power users who need more speed for video-editing or gaming will not be impressed, but that is the case with any laptop in this price range.

The power utility in your laptop is the best place to start in power conservation . In Windows the path to the power utility looks something like this: Start –> Settings –> Control Panel –> Power Options. This is the area that will allow you to set the time for the monitor to turn off as well as your hard drive and the amount of time it takes to switch to stand by. Power schemes are also available that have preset parameters like “Home/Desktop” or “Portable/Laptop.” These settings will automatically set the times for the typical laptop or home user. The provided “time” fields will be automatically filled in with the appropriate numbers and settings.

You can freely change any of these preset numbers in the selection made. For instance, if the setting shows 45 minutes to turn off the monitor you could change it to 30 minutes, an hour or whatever value you deem necessary. The average laptop can consume up to $50.00 a year in energy costs but using these simple utilities can help reduce this by half.

You may need to loosen a few of the plastic latches individually to fully remove the bezel. Place the bezel out of the way to prevent undue damage. Below the screen you will find the inverter; it is a long rectangular piece with wires attached at either end. Remove the wires and replace the inverter if needed. Three screws reside below the screen on the left and right sides, removing them will allow the plastic hinge covers to become free of the screen. You may now carefully lean the screen forward to reveal the video cable plugged into the back of the screen. Remove the tape covering the connection and unplug the cable from the screen.

The screen is still attached to the hinges via screws along either side of the screen remove these now but be sure to steady the screen so it does not fall and break creating a very large mess that is difficult to clean. Replace the screen and repeat these steps in reverse taking care not to force any screws in their respective holes farther than allowed. Even the slightest mistake could damage internal components rendering your hard work useless.

Click this link and you will be taken to a page to choose your product. The page lists everything from servers to paper and from calculators to laptops. The laptops are listed in the middle of the page and the options include “Mobile Thin Clients,” “Notebook PCs” and “Tablet PCs.” Select the option that fits your needs and proceed. Be sure to select your country of origin at the top of the page before selecting the laptop option. Under the “Notebook PCs” option it provides a list of models currently supported by the HP part surfer service. The model and series of your laptop is printed either on the keyboard area or you may look for the serial number on the bottom and perform a search for the model name.

Choose your model and proceed; for this example we are using the HP G notebooks. Next select your model in the series, the G3000 in this example, and then choose the next model which will be the HP G3100. The next page will bring you to a list of model numbers in the series select yours and proceed to choose the parts. You are able to choose the part by description or keyword or you can list all available parts in the series and model. Choose the parts you are looking for and it will deliver the available part numbers which will allow you to order the part from your favorite reliable parts distributor.

Then locate the large panel on the back of the machine; it will be located on the right side of the laptop. There are eight screws that will need to be removed using a small Phillips head screwdriver. You may find a small amount of dust and dirt in this part of the machine and it is a good idea to clean it with some compressed air. A clean, unused small paintbrush may be used to brush out the dirt form hard to reach places. Under the plate you will find the heat sink and fans on top of the CPU. Find the four screws on the outside of the heat sink assembly, loosen and remove them. Be especially careful when removing the heat sink assembly as it rests on top of the processor itself.

If the heat sink is pulled off at an angle the processor pins could bend as well as the possibility of damaging the receptor holes on the CPU socket. Before attaching the new processor you can take a little of the compressed air and clean out the motherboard. A few simple passes should do just fine. Virtually any P4 processor will work in this HP laptop; line up the CPU with the socket. There will be a “marker,” on one of the corners of the socket and CPU; match these up and then carefully place the new CPU into the socket. Reverse the steps above and you are finished.

The graphics surpass those of most average integrated chip sets by supporting up to 1.4 GB of video memory but with the less than perfect processor this will yield moderately better graphics. A saving grace for graphics is the BrightView technology that helps to reduce glare. The installed DVD-RW is a LightScribe enabled optical drive and capable of creating DualLayer DVDs. The Even though the Compaq CQ50 lacks a few ports, it still has many common interfaces such a s 3 USB, a VGA, HD D-Sub, 10/100Base-TX Ethernet and a 5 -in-1 memory card reader.

The laptop weighs in at about 6 1/2 pounds making it mid-weight but highly durable. The construction is sound and keyboard is comfortable to use. The track pad and mouse buttons are a bit stiff but useable. Overall performance is good for the average internet browser and email user but any advanced user needing to run multiple applications for extended periods of time will need to think twice. The 6 cell lithium ion battery should last for approximately 2 hours, but will depend upon what applications are running. The Compaq CQ50 comes with Vista Home Premium installed as well as Norton Home Security (60 day trial), and an HP suite of support and help software.

The Compaq CQ50 is a good buy but in order to get the lower price sacrifices in performance and usability have been made.

The HP Pavilion HDX weighs in at a whopping 15.5 pounds but is intended to be a desktop replacement so it is to be expected. While the graphics card is capable of it Blu-ray is not available on this laptop, only HP DVDs, an upgrade for $325.00, but the HP BrightView technology produces flawless graphics for gaming and multimedia experiences on the 20.1 inch widescreen display. The Pavilion HDX is also equipped with a removable remote control for media use, TV tuner, and a fingerprint reader to expand the “cool” factor of the laptop. The TV tuner seems a bit of an overkill with advent of cable cards. The HDX comes standard with HDMI, S-Video and VGA-out ports which is typical for a desktop replacement, although a DVI port would be nice. Additional ports on the HDX include 4 USBs, a Gigabit Ethernet connection, Firewire, digital audio out and an external SATA port for more media storage.

The HP Pavilion delivers great features and a multimedia gaming experience that is a step above the competition; with all of the bells and whistles expect to pay over $4,000.00.

A separate USB TV/Digital video recorder is also included but will take some time to set up; the instructions are very explicit, but easy to follow. The HP Pavilion zd8000 is a monster when it comes to weight but keep in mind that it is a desktop replacement model;. The model weighs in at 9.5 pounds, 12 with the AC adapter and 13.5 with the USB box, not a choice for the ultraportable user. The screen gives pristine graphics and is equipped with HP’s anti-glare coating which works better than most. The screen is a large 17 inches wide which may create some issues for smaller default font sizes; these can be easily changed. Overall performance of the HP Pavilion zd8000 is well balanced and suited for home media experiences, but could be used for business applications as well.

The HP Pavilion zd8000 delivers a multimedia experience balanced with desktop features; these features come at a price as the laptop is generally more expensive than most.

A 60 GB or 120GB hard drive can be standard on the Compaq Presario V6000; hard drives are Seagate Momentus 5400 hard drives. These sizes are pretty standard on laptops in this class but the V600 supports more memory than most. Wireless cards are installed and support 802.11a/b/g as well as an HDAduio Soft Data modem. Along with these are a 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet connection, 5 in 1 digital media card reader, and optional Bluetooth which is becoming more common in laptops. The choice of DVD ROM drives is commonplace in the laptop market and the Compaq Presario offers the choice of Super Multi 8x DVDR/RW with DualLayer support or the LightScribe 8x DVD+/RW & CD-RW combo drives. In addition the Compaq Presario is equipped with 1 PCI-E slot, 3 USB Ports, a mini Firewire port, S-video, and VGA ports.

Overall performance is good with a fast processor and above average memory specifications, but the unit lacks a little due to poor screen design; priced around $800.00 the Compaq Presario v6000 is a decent purchase for a mobile small business or home user.

A wide variety of free programs offer FTP uploading and downloading capability, including:

• Filezilla (and Prozilla)
• Putty
• NcFTP
• Downloader for X
• Cyberduck
• Curl
• Net Transport
• Star Downloader
• AceFTP

These free programs offer a varying range of features, which typically include remote file editing capabilities, queue management tools and the ability to support a range of file transfer formats, such as Telnet, TFTP, SFTP, DICT, FILE and LDAP. However, they’re subject to security breaches which enable third parties to interrupt and manipulate data in the process of transferring from one user to another. Most of all, conventional file transfer protocol programs are designed to prioritize data integrity over speed, leading to longer transfer times and increasing the chances of an Internet connection disruption canceling the process and forcing the user to start over.

FTP Uploads Without Size Limitations

We have solved these problems while creating a system that allows you to transfer files of unlimited size. You’ll enjoy faster and more secure file transfers, automatic resumption of interrupted downloads and powerful management tools that make organizing your files easy.

Other times, online sites will offer free FTP storage space without giving users any tools to organize and manage the files they’ve uploaded or downloaded. While many dedicated file transfer protocol programs offer file and queue management capabilities, the Internet connection integrity is often less than optimal. This leads to connection interruptions which can completely disrupt the progress of a transfer, forcing the downloading user to abort the attempt and start over at the beginning.

Fast, Secure Free FTP Storage

FTP companies have developed a system that’s superior to conventional approaches to file transfer protocol applications. Offering better security, easy file management and organization and the ability to send and receive files of any size, FTP is a more efficient and faster alternative. You can also take advantage of convenient features designed to make your experience quicker and more reliable, including automatic file zipping and the automatic resumption of interrupted transfers.

A long list of FTP freeware applications have popped up over the years. Common programs such as Filezilla and Prozilla, AceFTP, Putty and CuteFTP include features like queue management, remote editing capability, multiple connection management and batch downloading, among others. There are also many free software products designed for specialty applications, such as Downloader for X. This product is a download manager specifically created for the Unix and Linux platforms, allowing you network access even if you’re behind a firewall or a proxy server.

Convenient though they can be for casual, everyday users, these FTP freeware products also face significant drawbacks that limit their usefulness. By its very nature, file transfer protocol is more oriented towards preserving the integrity of the data than completing the transfer quickly. However, it’s susceptible to security breaches that allow third parties to intercept and manipulate data being sent from one user to another. This can give rise to a whole set of nasty consequences, including viruses and spyware.

Overcome the Limitations of Conventional FTP Freeware

We’ve developed a system that offers better security, faster uploading and downloading and, best of all, no maximum file size limitations. You can share documents of any size with users around the globe quickly and easily, all while taking advantage of our cutting-edge file management and organizational tools.

Free FTP space is available on servers located in virtually every country in the world. However, establishing connections between a client and a server located great distances from one another is a precarious process at best. This forces users to seek out local servers instead, which may have higher traffic, slower connection speeds, inferior security or volume limitations that inhibit their usability for certain applications.

FTP space sites offers Web surfers an effective alternative to the challenges posed by using conventional file transfer protocol programs. The company has developed cutting-edge technologies that replace traditional file transfer protocol clients.

Free FTP Space for Transferring Large Files

Far less cumbersome and far easier to use, FTP software are fast, secure, reliable and convenient. It also doesn’t restrict the size of the files you can send and receive, and hosts the capability to transfer documents and files in excess of the standard 2 GB limit. Users also enjoy advanced features like automatic zipping and resumption of interrupted transfers.

One of the most popular free FTP software programs is Filezilla, an open-source client that supports uploading and downloading across a range of operating systems including Windows, Mac OS-X and Linux. Filezilla, unlike many of the free clients available in cyberspace, works with firewalls to allow transfers to complete even when connection restrictions are in place.

GlobalSCAPE’s CuteFTP program offers those users who are willing to pay for service a host of desirable features, including transfer scheduling, remote editing capabilities and folder synchronization. However, for the casual surfer and downloader, the cost of the license is often not worth the investment. Though a low-cost “lite” version of CuteFTP is available, it doesn’t allow for the transfer of especially large files. In fact, the vast majority of programs available at no charge (or even for a licensing fee) have size limitations, since bandwidth restrictions are often implemented by Internet service providers, not the actual creators of these programs.

The Next Generation of FTP Software

If you have the need to send and receive large files in excess of 2 GB and can’t find a client to suit your needs, take advantage of the powerful next-generation technologies available. Offering generous storage capabilities and freedom from the restrictions of other sites, FTP Softwares convenient and easy-to-use no-cost solution for both businesses and individual end users.

Features of Free and Licensed FTP Programs

CuteFTP is an FTP program designed and marketed by GlobalSCAPE. While free trial versions are out there, which host enough features for the casual user, most of the product’s most advanced and useful features are only available through licensed versions. Like many of the free FTP programs out there, CuteFTP offers the capability to:

• Synchronize folders
• Manage a transfer queue
• Create an address book
• Enjoy SSH and SSL security
• Edit files remotely
• Schedule transfers
• Perform scripting and macros processes
• Drag-and-drop transfer management

However, neither of these products comes without drawbacks. The best CuteFTP features are only available if you pay for the service, with prices that don’t make sense for the average, casual Internet user. To take full advantage of Putty’s capabilities, you need relatively advanced computer knowledge. In addition, in terms of file sharing, both applications have limitations on the actual sizes of the files they can handle.

Many FTP sites offer a no-cost alternative to these applications which doesn’t have any restrictions on the file sizes you can send and receive. With easier, faster and more secure transfer capability, FTP is a smart alternative to conventional file transfer protocol products.

In active mode, the user connects to the FTP server using a dynamic port. A dynamic port is set up to faciliate client-end communication in a client-server connection. After listening for this connection to be established, the file transfer protocol client is then bound to a source port and data transfer is initiated.

Other software allows you to connect in passive mode, which still uses dynamic ports but initiates connections and client-server communications slightly differently. In passive mode, the source end of the transfer also runs through a dynamic port (unlike active mode). This mode can be initiated by entering the command “PASV” into your software’s dialogue box or user interface.

Extended passive mode is virtually identical, except that it does not break the port number down into high bytes and low bytes the way both active and passive modes do. Firewall, connection and transfer interruption problems are most often experienced by users connecting to FTP servers in extended passive mode.

An FTP Server Alternative With Free Transmission and Storage Capabilities

All three of these modes can create problems for the end user, but FTP sites has developed a powerful alternative that makes file sharing faster, easier, safer and more reliable. The FTP system allows you to send extremeley large files for free and offers dedicated online storage space where you can manage and organize your uploads and downloads with unprecedented ease.

Website updates can also be thrown askew relatively easily without secure FTP products. All a third party needs is the website’s IP address, easily attainable by performing a reverse ping, to set up a sniffer program which can intercept the site administrator’s login and password information. A malicious individual can then gain access to the site and wreak all kinds of digital havoc on the content, links and images it contains.

The servers that operate most of the popular free file transfer protocol applications are unsecured, leaving them vulnerable to these kinds of attacks. This leaves many users searching for a safer alternative that offers the same peer-to-peer file-sharing power without worrying about server insecurity.

A Secure FTP Alternative With Superior Capabilities

Find a free service that offers users extremely high safety standards in addition to more powerful data transmission capabilities. The site hosts file transfers of unlimited size, allowing users to manage multiple uploads and downloads easily, efficiently and free of worry. you can also find offers both the automatic zipping of shared files and a handy auto-resume feature that ensures your transfer picks up right where it left off in case of interruption.

OneButton FTP is a free graphical client designed specifically for use with the Macintosh OS-X operating system. Using the Cocoa transfer framework, it is designed to offer superior file queueing and drag-and-drop capability. Curl is a command-line interface program that uses SFTP, TFTP, Telnet, FILE, LDAP and DICT in addition to the standard file transfer protocol platform. Unix and Linux users can share files with Downloading for X, which let you use either the standard file transfer protocol or the HTTP protocol, even if you’re behind a proxy server.

Countless other applications are out there in cyberspace, each of which offers a slightly differing interface and set of features. However, the one thing they all have in common is that they limit the size of the files they can transmit. If you want to send or receive unusually large files or documents, you were traditionally left with very few alternatives…until now.

A Free FTP Client That Hosts Files of Unlimited Size

Free FTP Clients offers the fast, reliable and secure peer-to-peer sharing of files of unlimited size. The GoFTPExpress.com technology is also specially designed to resume an interrupted transfer from the point at which it left off, liberating you from two of the most cumbersome limitations of conventional file transfer protocol programs.

Because free FTP hosting sites require two connections to manage a single file transfer, users have twice the chance of experiencing an interruption that will make them have to start their upload or download over again. Also, the amount of storage space available to each individual account holder tends to be extremely limited, which creates restrictions on the types and sizes of files the site can successfully transfer. With independent users looking to transmit more and more data-dense and media-rich files and documents, people are seeking new ways to enjoy reliable peer-to-peer sharing without the limitations and connection interruptions that plague conventional file transfer protocol clients.

Free FTP Hosting Without File Size Limits

The technologies at the free ftp hosts are available to you at no cost, and let you to share documents of any size with users around the world. Allowing you to include private information with your upload or download and manage and organize your files with ease and convenience, FTP hosting sites offers a powerful alternative. You’ll also enjoy features like automatic resumption of interrupted transfers, automatic file zipping, faster connection speeds and much more.

Problems With Free FTP Sites

However, the free hosting capabilities of FTP sites is limited, due to a range of factors which include:

• Bandwidth limitations
• Connection reliability issues
• Complications caused by firewalls
• Access restrictions

These limitations can lead to a number of problems for users on both ends of the file transfer. First, the actual size of the files that can be shared using these freeware applications is heavily restricted, since sending and receiving large files taxes the system, creating problems for other users. Thus, the administrators of these file-sharing websites often place daily limits on the amount of data a single user can transmit or receive. Second, traffic on the system can cause connection interruptions, which will stop a download prior to completion and force the user to start over. Because there’s no telling how many times this can happen in a single session, increasing numbers of people are seeking more reliable, less restrictive alternatives.

FTP Sites represents the next generation of peer-to-peer file sharing. The powerful technologies the company has developed allow users to circumvent conventional file transfer protocol applications and allow for the sharing of files of unlimited size. Many FTP Sites supports multiple transfers at once, easy management and organization, and excellent security and privacy controls, and is a cutting-edge solution to the limitations of traditional file transfer protocol clients.

SmartFTP offers users a host of features, including multilingual support capabilities, modern graphical user interfaces (GUIs), remote editing of shared files, verified transfer integrity, transfer queue management tools, multiple simultaneous connections and much more. However, to enjoy the full breadth of these features, users are required to pay a hefty licensing fee, which isn’t worth the money for many average Internet users.

The Filezilla software is available for Windows, Linux and Macintosh’s OS-X. While it does allow for the timestamping of uploads and downloads, something many FTP programs lack, it is limited in terms of the file sizes it can support and often offers less-than-optimal connection and transfer speeds. These restrictions are, in and of themselves, enough to leave even casual Internet users seeking a more convenient alternative.

A Powerful Alternative to Conventional FTP Programs

FTP Softwares uses unique, patented technology developed specifically to give peer-to-peer file sharers a way to transfer even extremely large files quickly and reliably. Without file size limits, the FTP system allows for the fast and secure sharing of digital documents with a wide range of added features that make conventional file transfer protocol applications obsolete. You can use FTP programs to send multiple files of any size for free, all while enjoying superior organizational and management capabilities.

What Is FTP and How Does It Work?

What file protocol transfer systems do is allow users to transmit files regardless of any incompatibilities in the operating systems their computers use. They use a technology known as out-of-band control, which separately manages both the system controls and the data itself, facilitating a high degree of accuracy over the course of the transfer. Despite this, though, free FTP clients have a number of significant restrictions which limit their usability, especially for users looking to transmit large files to other people.

Because servers have bandwidth limitations, it’s not feasible to send extremely large files to another user via file transfer protocol applications. Connection interruptions are also common, leaving the end user to start transfers over from the beginning in the event that their downloads don’t complete properly. However, there are alternatives available. What these alternatives are designed to do is offer the same peer-to-peer file sharing capabilities while overcoming the restrictions and inconveniences of cumbersome file transfer protocol applications.

What is a powerful file transfer protocol? alternative, allowing users to upload and download digital documents of any size quickly and easily, with the added capability of sharing private information between users at each end of the transmission. The FTP system offers superior speed, easier use and better reliability than conventional software.

Alternative options address these FTP problems in a number of innovative ways. First, they use unique web-based technologies to allow users to share files of any size. FTP alternatives also have built-in mechanisms for organizing and managing uploads and downloads, and allow users on both ends to zip their files automatically while providing superior security. In addition, these systems offer the capability to resume interrupted uploads and downloads. Rather than having to start a transfer over from the beginning, the system automatically remembers where the process left off and picks things up from there.

A Powerful, Next-Generation FTP Alternative

There is a developed free, powerful web-based technologies that liberate you from the limitations of conventional file transfer protocol systems. With superior speed and no hassles, FTP represents the future of online file sharing.