Mobile computing -laptop and netbook bundles

Welcome to my first blog post.

Over the coming months/years/who knows, I'll be adding comments to this blog relating to my company (Mytex Limited - find it at http://www.mytex.co.uk/), what we are doing with it and basically anything to do with mobile computing equipment and computing bundles. I hope you find it interesting and join in the discussions.

I'm starting with some thoughts on where mobile computing is going at the moment in my view from the boundary. You'll find similar postings and information in our newsletters - just visit our reference and resources page to sign-up. Enjoy.

My view from the boundary.
To start with, I thought it would be interesting to revisit a frequently used term - "mobile computing". It's such a common term these days but a refresher on what it actually means in a fast changing industry like IT would be interesting and useful.

So lets get straight down to business by defining what we mean by “mobile computing”.
…and, hey presto, there you are, straight up against a problem! The problem being that there are just so many different ways to define the term – primarily because it means so many different things to different people and organisations.

Here are some definitions pulled off the web:

• "Mobile computing is a generic term describing one's ability to use technology while moving".
• "Using a computing device while in transit. Mobile computing implies wireless transmission, but wireless transmission does not necessarily imply mobile computing".
• "Mobile computing is using a computer (of one kind or another) while on the move".
• "Mobile computing is an umbrella term used to describe technologies which enable people to access network services anytime, anyplace, anywhere".

You may have noticed that there is an underlying theme running through all of these definitions.

To my mind, the theme has 3 factors: convenience, portability and implied connectivity….all of which are essential if we:

• as organisations are to enhance efficiency and productivity, improve customer service and increase profits.
• as individuals are to derive convenience and flexibility allowing us to enjoy greater pleasure and advantage from mobile computing use.

These are the primary reasons for the increased popularity of mobile computing in all its guises. It enables us to more effectively fulfil our daily routine – no matter what that routine may involve:

If connectivity is needed, todays wireless coverage in the UK and the availability of 3 and 3.5G modems at reasonable cost allow it through simple add-ons to mobile computing components (its an easy add-on to the mobile office bundles we sell at Mytex).

If convenience and practicality is more important to you, then you need light weight solutions which can go with you wherever you are or just be safely stowed away when not in use. Again, see our mobile office bundles for examples.

Portability speaks for itself.

Tim Mulligan

(Founder and Director at Mytex Limited - http://www.mytex.co.uk/)