The ultimate notebook computer. David H. Ahl.

The Ultimate Notebook Computer

While doing the series of articles on notebook computers, speaking to manufacturers, and, most of all, using a notebook computer for the past nine months, I thought of many things that I would like to see on the ultimate notebook computer.

That is not to say that today's machines aren't good--they are. In fact, I firmly believe that notebook computers will have more impact on the way people use computers than anything else since the first computer was invented. They will have more impact than transistors, than minicomputers, than microcomputers, or than graphics displays. Why? Because now you can take a computer anywhere. Your mind extending tool can be your constant companion--and it will be.

But what would be nice to have on it compared to the machines of today? Frankly, just a few additional touches would make today's notebook computers nearly ideal. A little less weight, a touch-sensitive color screen, the ability to run a wide range of software, stereo sound, and a longer battery life would make a mighty fine machine.

We put our heads together, came up with a wish list, and then had John Jinks do a rendering of the Ultimate Notebook Computer.