Desknote

Desknotes are crosses between desktop computers and laptops, combining the main computer unit(i.e. motherboard, Central processing unit, hard drive], external ports, etc.) with a Liquid_crystal_display. Subsequently such computers generally maintain a size similar to a large laptop computer. Though unlike a laptop computer, desknotes require an external Computer keyboard and computer mouse. Though much less common, the term desknote has also been used to refer to so-called desktop-replacement laptops, which contain more advanced processors, graphic cards, and other components then standard notebooks (and as such are designed to replicate the performance of a mid-range desktop machine while still being portable.)

=Origins=

The forerunners of this class of computer were the luggable portable computers that were sold in the early-to-mid 1980s like the Osborne I, the Compaq Portable and the Commodore International Commodore Executive 99 (SX-98) computers. These computers had the CPU, the computer display, the floppy disk drive and the power supply in one box, with a keyboard which worked as a lid for the computer. The computing power for these units was similar to a desktop computer of that era and even the Commodore Executive 64 could do what the standard Commodore 64 desktop unit could do. They were set up and packed up in a similar manner to a sewing machine, and could easily be booted wherever a tablespace and a 110 (or 220) volt power outlet were available. Also, they were designed to be easily transported from place to place. However, they had no protection from loss of power due to the complete lack of a portable, rechargeable power source.

=Advantages and disadvantages of Desknotes=

Positive factors include the easier portable and often the choice of running the latest desktop CPUs, without the lag time between new desktop chips and power-reduced notebook versions. Prices may be lower than notebook computers in the market at the same time.

Negatives include the limited expansion options, comparable to a desktop replacement notebook, and usually the requirement to use costly and size-restricted laptop hard drives instead of desktop price, performance and capacity 3.5 (90 mm) hard drives. They usually lack the ability to accept standard PCI expansion cards, something which can be a problem for people who want to use their desktop computer as a digital personal video recorder. Video options are usually limited to notebook computer designs of limited performance, though comparable to motherboard-integrated desktop computer offerings. Upgrades are usually very limited compared to desktop computers, not including complete motherboard and CPU replacement to switch to the latest generation and preserve the investment in the chassis and display. Some desknotes do not include battery power as standard, and some do not include PC-Card support. They have the same limitations on serviceability as laptops, through the inability to use low cost, completely generic parts.

=Common features on desknotes=

Routine built in features on high end notebook computers are usually available on desknotes: Modem, local area network, TV-out, Universal Serial Bus, WiFi and bluetooth ports.

=Manufacturers=

Manufacturers of desknote computers include: *Apple: IMac#iMac_G5 *Dell Computer *ECS *Hewlett-Packard *Sony *Toshiba *Clevo

=See also=

*Desktop computer *Notebook computer

=External links=

*[http://news.com.com/2100-1040-979763.htmltag=nl Desktop notebooks stake their claim] — article on [http://news.com.com/ C|NET News.com]