Call them laptops. Call them notebooks. Or call them portable computers. Whatever name you like, the fact is that these one-piece PCs are fast replacing the desktop computer.

How come? First, manufacturers have dramatically dropped prices on laptops while continuing to add power and speed. The latest laptops are equipped to easily handle all the business software you rely on today.

Second, more folks want the ability to use their PCs both in and out of the office. On the road, a laptop lets you attend to e-mail and other business from client offices, hotel rooms and even coffee shops. When not on the road, a laptop enables you to work at your desk, at meetings and conferences, and from home.

If you've decided it's time for a laptop — or persuaded your boss that it's time — here are five tips to ensure you're getting the most from the machine you choose.

	TIP: To conserve battery power on a laptop running Windows XP Professional, go to Start, Control Panel, and then select Power Options. On the Power Schemes tab, select Portable/Laptop from the Power schemes drop-down list. This scheme will shut down certain hardware operations when your laptop is idle for any length of time. You can use the default time settings or adjust them to your own preferences. Click OK to set the power scheme.

1. Watch Your Back
You will begrudge any laptop that inflicts neck or back pain when you carry it around, so think about size and weight. If you travel extensively or commute daily with a laptop, consider one of the svelte, lightweight models. These lean machines — sometimes classified as "ultralight" or "thin and light" laptops – typically weigh about 1 to 2 kilograms (3 to 5 pounds).

But less weight means less computer. Twelve-inch screens, undersized keyboards and no internal CD or DVD drive are common. A better option for most business travellers is a mid-weight model — around 3 kilograms (7 pounds) — that comes with an easier-to-read 14 or 15-inch screen, full-size keyword and built-in drive. You may find the "desktop replacement" line of laptops enticing, especially those with large 17-inch screens. These machines can weigh 4.5 kilograms (10 pounds) or more and are unwieldy travel companions.

Know that your neck and back are also at risk because a laptop can lead to poor work postures. Whenever possible, you should elevate your laptop off your desk so you can see the screen without bending your neck. And using a separate keyboard and mouse with your laptop can help you keep a neutral wrist position and avoid carpal-tunnel syndrome.

2. Win the Power Struggle
If you expect to use your laptop on an airplane, in airports or other places without access to power outlets, consider battery life when laptop shopping. If you need a laptop that can run four or five hours without a battery recharge, you'll want a machine engineered for low power consumption. In addition, carry a spare battery and charger when travelling. You can also adjust power use settings on your machine to conserve power.

3. Connect With and Without Wires
To ensure you can send and receive e-mail, use the internet and access your company computer files in any situation, you'll want multiple methods available to connect to networks. Most laptops come with built-in dial-up modems that enable connections — slow ones — over a phone line. Also standard is a network interface card that lets you plug a cable into a high-speed connection, which many hotels now offer in rooms and meeting spaces.

As a third option, make sure your laptop has wireless networking capabilities. More and more laptop makers build in this capability to allow network connections over the airwaves. But you can also buy a wireless network card that plugs into a slot on your laptop. Going wireless allows you to take advantage of wireless access points — called" hot spots" — in airports and other public places.

4. Guard Your Machine
A laptop is an expensive piece of equipment and, if left unattended even briefly, is a target for thieves. Take extra precautions to protect your machine and its data from disappearing.

The Windows XP operating system can help you protect data by enabling you to:

• Back up your laptop data to your desktop computer, external hard drive or network folder
• Require a username and strong password to log on to your laptop
• Use encryption for files containing confidential information

To keep someone from grabbing your machine and walking away with it, consider installing an anti-theft alarm and using a safety cable to attach your machine to a desk or other hard-to-move object.

5. Consider Laptop Add-ons
If you're using a laptop day in and day out, a few add-ons or accessories will make laptop life a bit smoother. Consider the following:

• Second monitor. You may want to connect your computer to a larger monitor when you're working at the office.
• Laptop mouse. Smaller and easier to store when travelling, it also has a shorter retractable cord less likely to get in your way.
• USB hub. Most laptops come with two USB ports. A USB hub provides additional ports if you want to connect a mouse, keyboard, digital camera, extra storage device and printer to your machine all at the same time.
• Docking station. When you slip your laptop into a docking station, it basically becomes a desktop computer. The station provides power to your laptop, expansion slots, and can be set up with ready-to-use connections to a network, larger monitor, printer, separate keyboard and mouse.

When you factor in the convenience and productivity gains that come with laptops today you may find your desktop PC days are over.