In fact, we estimate that the latest generation of portable PCs is more powerful than 80 percent of installed desktops. Our recent market research indicates that the portable PC is the preferred platform of the mobile professional. The days of buying a desktop and a separate portable are over. For someone who spends considerable time out of the office, the enterprise is better off buying a portable computer than a desktop system. Yes, a portable PC costs 25 percent to 30 percent more than a desktop model, but the productivity gains far outweigh the incremental costs.
Studies show that portable users average about four extra hours of work per week outside the office.
Not many other business assets have such a fast payback. A light burden Facilitating this step forward involves some serious issues for the IS manager and LAN administrator. When a mobile worker brings his or her portable into the office, it has to connect easily to the enterprise network. This is done by inserting a LAN adapter card into the PC Card slot or attaching the portable to a port replicator or docking station that incorporates a LAN connection. In addition to the LAN connection, the user often wants to attach a full-sized monitor, keyboard, and mouse.