LAPTOP Magazine July 2008
Table of Contents
Online Exclusives
Which BlackBerry is Right for You?
LAPTOP cuts through the confusion to help you choose the best model and carrier for your needs.
Mini-Notebook Type-Off
Four typists get their hands on the keyboards of the ASUS Eee PC, CTL 2go PC, and HP Mini-Note.
Auto Mode Gets Smart
The latest cameras are designed to pick the best scene mode based on what you’re shooting. We put them to the test.
Confessions of a Tech Support Geek
We got the dirt from one veteran support specialist. Find out what the reps in the trenches really think.
Inside the July Issue
Tech Support Showdown 2008
Before you buy, know what type of help to expect from your notebook’s manufacturer. Check out our third annual undercover report on the major vendors.
Be Your Own Tech Support
We answer the most commonly asked notebook-related questions, so you can fix it yourself.
The Ultimate Networked Home
From wireless media sharing to connected alarm clocks, these gadgets and add-ons will bring your abode into the 21st century.
Dream Machines
The first big-screen notebook with an HD quad-core processor. An ultraportable that can surf the Web without booting into Windows. Behold the future of portable computing.
Things You Didn’t Know Google Could Do
Sure, you’ve probably checked out Google Docs and Google Desktop. But now it’s time to discover the lesser- known capabilities of this Internet powerhouse.
Notebook Test Drive: How Far Can You Go in the Store?
Which retailers let you really kick the tires on that potential new portable?
Battery Life Boot Camp
Squeeze more juice out of your laptop with these simple tips.
ARRIVALS
Introducing the latest CrackBerry you can’t live without, a Bluetooth headset you control with your voice, and a super-safe USB tool.
PRIVACY WATCH
Homeland Surveillance
The executive branch and cell phone carriers may be snooping on your private phone calls in the interest of national security. Is it legal?
ON THE RADAR
Use the Force
A new neuroheadset lets you play Jedi and control on-screen actions with your thoughts.
A New Twist on Chips
When silicon goes stretchy, innovative possibilities go through the roof.
PORTABLE PUNDIT
Night of the Living DVDs
Digitized movies won’t be the answer until Hollywood makes some serious changes.
OUT OF RANGE
Goggles that remember everything you see are among this month’s news of the weird.
READER REVIEW
I Gave up My iPod for a Slacker Portable
A nano-lover attempts to adapt to Slacker’s Wi-Fi gadget with all-you-can-eat free music. Will she leave her iPod behind for good?
DOWNLOADS
Security Suite Showdown
Which all-in-one tool offers the ultimate protection for your notebook?
REALITY CHECK
Talking to your GPS
We put one of the first voice-recognition–capable navigators to the test.
HOW TO's
How to Send Picture Postcards from Your Cell
Create a personalized greeting from your phone sans stamps.
How to Go from PC to TV
Step-by-step instructions for enjoying your music, photos, and videos on your big screen.
INSTANT EXPERT
Solid State Drives
Everything you need to know about the hottest trend in notebook storage.
MOBILE IT
iPhone 2.0: Should Businesses Bite?
Apple’s business-friendly iPhone software update adds push e-mail and beefs up security, but will it be enough to win over the enterprise?
BUSINESS TRAVELER
How to Stay Healthy on the Road
Use these tips to protect your immune system from the hazards of the average business trip.
GET AHEAD
Tech Up Your Resume
Ready to put your best foot forward online? How about your face in front of the camera? Here’s how to stand out.
PRESENTATION
Avoid Disasters
Troubleshoot these common on-site tech catastrophes to keep your presentation running smoothly.