Tips

• Wireless: This feature allows your laptop to connect to wireless networks inside your company, at home or when you are on the move. By buying a wireless enabled laptop, not only are you spared the cost of an optional card, you also have less compatibility problems and reduced power consumption.

• Battery life: This is a vital consideration if you plan to work on the move. Go for the maximum capacity; the extra money paid is well worth it. For example, Dell charges £35 for an update that nearly triples your battery capacity.

• Webcam: Some laptops like this Acer Aspire 70003 WSMI come with a webcam integrated in the top of the screen, just below the cover latch. A webcam can be used for video-conferencing, increasingly useful with the growing popularity of Instant Messaging clients like Skype or Live Messenger. An integrated webcam means one less accessory to carry around.

• Dual Core Processor: The processor is the computer’s brain. Dual core processors act like two brains so they do not compete for resource. This allows you to carry out demanding functions like video conferencing and writing a DVD at the same time with no loss of speed. A laptop with a mono-core processor would struggle under the load.

• Extended warranties: An international, extended warranty might cost extra but that will be money well spent if anything happens to your laptop when you work remotely, particularly with the collect and return option.

• Modularity: A modular laptop means that you have the option of swapping peripherals (like batteries or optical drives) depending on your needs. This means that you would be able to boost your battery life significantly by removing your DVD and inserting another battery in its place.

• Portability: Lugging around a laptop can be a hassle if you move around a lot. The screen is going toinfluence the size of the laptop so if is vital that you experience different screen sizes before settling for one laptop size.

For more information on getting the best equipment, why not read the following guides:

Buying a computer

Setting up a home office

Using a PC on the move