MOBILE TECHNOLOGIES AND TRENDS
Form factors: Mobile computers
Craig Mathias
06.18.2007
Rating: --- (out of 5)
|
If you're like me, the selection of a new mobile device doesn't begin with styling, features, or even performance. Rather, I start with what is known as form factor, which is simply the general size and layout of the device. It doesn't matter to me whether a computer is cool (both thermally and in terms of design), hot (in terms of performance only), or otherwise the talk of the Web. I need to start with whether it will fit in my already stuffed computer bag. I prefer small (but not too small) mobile computers that don't weigh very much. I'm always on the road and really not looking for any more of a workout than I already get carrying 12 or so pounds of stuff everywhere I go.
So I thought it would be interesting to enumerate the major categories of mobile computers today. As is the case with handheld devices, we're seeing an increasing diversity of form factors for mobile computers -- this despite a general commonality of operating and applications environments. Let's look at these, from smallest to largest, using Farpoint Group's taxonomy:
I've largely ignored Macs here, and I shouldn't – Macintosh notebooks are becoming more popular all the tim
To continue reading for free, register below or login
To read more you must become a member of SearchMobileComputing.com
e. I've also ignored ruggedized computers used in industrial and military applications, but a whole bunch of these are also on the market. They tend to cost several times as much as their commercial counterparts, but they may be worth the extra cost if you work in adverse environments or are otherwise really tough on your gear.
Finally, mobile computer technology has become relatively stable in recent years. Two big innovations on the horizon are the use of solid-state or hybrid solid-state/rotating memories, which could improve both responsiveness and ruggedness to some degree, and the availability of ExpressCard slots, which are replacing PC Card slots on many notebooks and offer performance of 2.5 Gbps.
Next time we'll continue with further examination of form factors, but with handhelds in mind.
About the author: Craig Mathias is a principal with Farpoint Group, an advisory firm based in Ashland, Mass., specializing in wireless networking and mobile computing. The firm works with manufacturers, enterprises, carriers, government, and the financial community on all aspects of wireless and mobile. He can be reached at craig@farpointgroup.com.
|
|
|
|
|
|
