Have computer will travel

Tim Leary popularized the phrase “turn on, tune in, drop out” in the 1960s. Today I am officially coining my own non-psychedelic phrase; “turn on, unplug, and move about”. I don’t mean this in the sense of a person requiring medical attention or partaking of some of Mr. Learys’ biscuits. I say this in the context of a technological trend that is maneuvering away from the constraints of a desktop and embracing the relative freedom of a wireless network.
Mobile technology is nothing new. What is new is the focus of a lot of these technologies and their practical implementations. Palm pilots have held a secure position under the umbrella of mobile devices, but it is now facing some stiffer competition from its chief rival, the laptop. Thanks to the new Centrino mobile technology, the standard for this segment of the computing field may have risen. Centrino technology is only offered on laptops. Centrino technology makes it easier for users to use their laptops without being confined by cords. This is something that was achieved before by installing a wireless network card into a laptop. The difference now is that the wireless network card is installed internally. This accomplishes several things. It makes up some of the ground that it gives away to smaller and lighter mobile devices, while offering the benefits that are unique to laptops and desktops.
To put this in a practical perspective is easy. If you are a student at a University that has a wireless network that spans the entire campus, then you can carry the campus in your laptop. You will be able to research answers for your classes on the internet while you are still in class. You could also search the library for books that you may need or place comments on your class listserv from the comfort of the student union. In addition to an academic environment, corporate and private users can benefit from the time management advantages that are offered.
Home users may find it more beneficial to utilize internet appliances or computers who main function is to enable web surfing. The specific type or internet appliances are called “web pads”. They can come in a version that allows you to remove the screen from a charging cradle, and move about your domicile with complete internet connectivity. A wireless infrastructure is needed for all of these forms of mobile technology. Whether it is for academic, commercial, or home use, a Wi-Fi or wireless network is needed. You cannot just move about town with a Centrino enabled laptop and expect to have internet connection, but Wi-Fi networks are becoming more commonplace throughout our society.
Laptops with Centrino technology can be found at many of the major outlets that sell laptops. Web pads have yet to find their way into many retail stores in mass numbers. Maybe they will in the near future. Infocater.com is a website were you can get more information on web pads and possibly purchase one. Remember to turn on, unplug, and move about. As always, email me your questions and comments.