Laptops.

[ChrisR]

I`m told i`m behind the times and should be using a laptop at work to make me more efficient.

I`m sure loads of you use them so what are the pros and cons and what software is the best.

Chris.

[kwatt]

Re: Laptops.

What do you want it to do and where?

K.

[Toni]

Re: Laptops.

Hi Chris
I have been thinking about this recently for myself.
I currently use a smartphone (Windows Mobile) which I use as a diary etc, I have loaded on it a database which has a parts database and I log all my customer details on it (although I have been having trouble recently with that particular programe).
On my laptop at home I have Qualtex Spareslink on it and I have a far bigger customer database, I would probably use my laptop if I could figger out how to use the information on it to print my calls etc from the existing database or create a new one. Maybe there is some software out there that would do the job for me, but anything I have seen is just way beyond my price range.
Regards
Toni

[squadman]

Re: Laptops.

I have been using a laptop on the road for about three years, I use it for a number of different tasks which streamline my working time. I have loaded TDS, Partfinder, Connections, Spareslink, Manuals, I also use Access to keep track of my customers, I also have supplier records, Corresponence, and a whole raft of other things that help me keep my pulse on the business. I also advise anyone thinking of undertaking this sort of thing to invest in quality encryption which will protect anything that is sensitive especially customer details and any such Financial details, a good strong password is essential and also don’t forget to password the Admin account as well as your own account if you have your system set up in such a fashion.

With Wireless Broadband access coming down in cost a laptop is a one stop traveling office by which you can do all you day to day chores as you go. As with anything like this BACKUPS are the name of the game in order that should the worst happen it would be an hour to get back to where you were.

[Honeywood]

Re: Laptops.

Hi Chris,

I found that the dilema was a combination of costs and transportation.

A laptop can be a very costly piece of equipment, not only to buy but also to replace if it gets damaged or lost etc.

It is also another piece of equipment you have to lumber around with you.

My solution was to buy a hand held computer, i.e. hp ipaq 6515. These are around £450 off the shelf, but if you get one direct from Vodafone or Misco on a phone contract, you can reduce that to free!

The advantage is that you have a very small computer that will sync with your home computer/server/ISP etc and also doubles as a SATNAV, phone, camera, mp3, video etc,etc…

I carry all my technical files/manuals on it and because I have a microsoft exchange server package with my web provider, all my emails and diary etc are syncronised while I’m out and about so I never miss a job. (You can also set it up to sync with your ISP mail accounts, ie msn)

There are loads more features etc and software available, too much to go on about, but after using this for the last 3 years, It’s been the best investment I made since starting up on my own.

Here’s a link if your interested,

http://www.vodafonebusinessshop.co.uk/D … -1779.html

[ChrisR]

Re: Laptops.

Thanks for the advice guys.

My main aim would be to have easier access to manuals and parts info and to log my call infomation.

How would you print out invoices for customers and whats the best laptops avalible.It would have to have wireless capability and be reasonably priced.

Will also look at the`hand helds` that have been mentioned.

[Honeywood]

Re: Laptops.

Your welcome,

The ipaq is wireless with both bluetooth and wifi.

Portable bluetooth printers are available so you can print from any program you are using. i.e. from word, excel, acess or to any purpose designed program or database etc. and because it has a touch screen, you can capture a signiture directly into your document before printing it out.

The are also wireless foldable keyboards available at £15 if you find the builtin one or touch screen too fiddly.

The manuals, documents etc. I keep on SD cards which slide into 2 slots, but in reality I only the 1 as it can hold 8GB which is more that enough.

Good luck with the search.

[tradesite]

Re: Laptops.

I use a 35p notebook from the local post office and a bookies pen! oh and a 7 year old mobile phone.

Cheers.

Nigel.

[scots]

Re: Laptops.

I have had a laptop a while now but for some of the reasons mentioned earlier I don’t take it on the road. I looked at an ultra portable notebook by Asus and after reading a number of reviews I decided to buy one. Had it for two days now and its GREAT 7″ screen, no hdd and very light. I can also get online using my mobile as a modem, so can order up and check availability.
PS they are VERY dificult to get hold of as they are so popular!

Check out the reviews http://reviews.cnet.co.uk/laptops/0,390 … 7-1,00.htm

Brian

[Author]

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