subnotebook computer
A laptop computer that weighs less than four pounds. In order to reduce weight, subnotebooks often eliminate built-in CD/DVD drives, relying on external units to be plugged in when needed. However, if optical discs are required on the road, an external drive in the same travel bag as the computer generally results in more overall weight than a built-in drive would have added in the first place.
The Mini Laptop and Netbook
Yet another category of ultra portable, the "mini laptop" made its debut in the 2007 time frame. A subnotebook weighing from two to three pounds, mini laptops have screens in the seven to nine inch range and no optical drives. In 2008, Intel coined the term "Netbook" for small "notebook-sized" portables that use its Atom processor (see Netbook). For features of a portable computer, see laptop computer. See notebook computer and Ultra-Mobile PC.
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| The Trend Setter |
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| In 1998, Sony popularized the subnotebook class with its VAIO (pronounced "vy-o") 505G at three pounds and less than an inch thick. To reduce traveling weight, floppy and CD-ROM drives were external, and a docking station was included. (Image courtesy of Sony Corporation.) |
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| Laptop and Mini Laptop |
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| The Acer mini laptop on the right sports an 8.9" screen compared to 15" on its big brother to the left. Mini laptops sacrifice keyboard and screen size for portability. |