In the computer world, size also matters. But unlike in basketball, here, smaller means better. You see, ever since people started being dependent on computers, portability has always pushed designers to create smaller and more portable computing machines.
From the large cabinet-like designs of Charles Babbage, computers became small enough to be placed on top of desks or tables, giving birth to the familiar desktops. And then when desktops needed to be carried from the house to the office (which required traveling across several miles), impracticality gave rise to an even smaller version of computers we now call the laptops.Then, just when you think that pinnacle of computer evolution has been reached, various computer companies have embarked on an even greater conquest to minimize laptop sizes.
ASUS, for example, has just released its smallest addition to the pc world - the ASUS eeepc. It’s so small, it’s no bigger than an ordinary Cattleya binder notebook. The screen size is an eye-popping 7.5 inches, yet it packs enough power to serve everyday functions like spreadsheets computations, document processing, and even wireless internet surfing. (Actually, there’s so much more to this tiny beauty that I plan to make a seperate post on it in the future.)
Mac, on the other hand, has released its own version of a small laptop in the form of the MacBook Air. It’s a stunningly thin computer that can fit inside a small brown envelope. Amazing right? Definitely! And what’s even more incredible is the fact that the MacBook Air didn’t have to compromise functionality, speed or any of its usual features for its size. It comes equipped with a core 2 duo processor, an 80 GB HDD with a 64 GB SSD optionial ungrade, wireless connections (built-in Air Port and Bluetooth), an Intel graphics accelerator, the GMA X3100, and a 13.3" LCD.
The computer world is truly a fast-evolving one. And if this two are just examples of what’s to come, then I’m extremely excited about the future. Who knows, maybe the next generation of computers could even fit in the palm of our hands.
