|

|
Laptop Accessories Must Haves
After spending over a thousand dollars for a laptop, you'd
think you've done enough damage on your credit card. Your
laptop is your business partner, your secretary, and your
investment all rolled into one. It'll be a wise idea to get
a few laptop accessories to enhance its performance. I'm not
telling you to go ahead and buy every gizmo and gadget that
promise better laptop performance. In truth, there are only
a few laptop accessories every business traveler must have.
First stop: a protective laptop bag. Get this first before
buying other laptop accessories. In fact, get this together
with your laptop. This baby will protect your
thousand-dollar business buddy from spills, scratches, and
falls. Plus, carrying your laptop in a sleek case looks more
professional than your college backpack. Laptop bags range
from cheap $25 bags to a hundred dollar leather case.
Whichever one you get, consider the quality and not just the
price. Check for waterproofing, shock absorbing capacity,
and pockets for added convenience.
If your laptop came with its own software, don't think that
you're all set. Check if the installed software matches your
business needs. If not, install a new software and keep the
installation disk in your laptop bag. It's good to bring it
always because you never know when you'll need an emergency
re-install. Without the software disk, you'll be a sitting
duck. An actual USB mouse is often overshadowed by other
laptop accessories. Your laptop has eraser nubs and
trackpads which are convenient when working in vehicle.
However, for stable surfaces like in a cafe or conference
room, a mouse pad is more suitable. By using an actual USB
mouse, you refrain from blocking the screen each time you
adjust or operate your presentation. Even though you think
you won't use it, keep it handy.
Most laptops today come with Ethernet ports. But even if
your hotel provides Ethernet connection, it is useless
without a suitable cable. So include internet, phone, and
modem cables in your laptop accessories list to avoid being
caught off-guard. Your thousand-dollar laptop may look sleek
the first time you use it. But over time, finger oils and
dust can make it look grimy. Stash some disposable and
lint-free cloth to wipe the surfaces of your laptop. Make
sure the cloths are not abrasive to avoid scratching your
laptop. For file storage, keep USB drives and blank CD-Rs
handy. These are also handy for situations other than file
storage. Suppose you delivered an excellent presentation and
an executive of your client company requested a copy.
Instead of emailing him a copy, you could burn him a copy
instantly and give him the CD. Choice laptop accessories are
not limited to protecting your laptop. Most protect your
professional image and business as well.
By Andrew Corner
<< back
Laptop
Accessories Buying Guide
|