The question has been asked a couple different times, “Do I
really need to bring a computer?” My answer would be yes. Your
computer is going to be your most reliable, and usually only, form of
communication with home. To the question of “Can’t I just share with
someone on my team?” My answer is that you could, but I was real glad I
brought my own. Sometimes your whole team has an hour to post a blog,
write an email, and Skype with family and friends. It’s nice to know
that you have the ability to access the internet in the times when it’s
available.
really need to bring a computer?” My answer would be yes. Your
computer is going to be your most reliable, and usually only, form of
communication with home. To the question of “Can’t I just share with
someone on my team?” My answer is that you could, but I was real glad I
brought my own. Sometimes your whole team has an hour to post a blog,
write an email, and Skype with family and friends. It’s nice to know
that you have the ability to access the internet in the times when it’s
available.
So if you’re going to bring a computer, what should you bring?
[As with the rest of the gear, I’m not making an endorsement, just
trying to help by putting some basic facts in front of you. Although I
was very happy with my 2-year old 13″ MacBook that is still relatively
clean and going strong after 15 months on the field.]
[As with the rest of the gear, I’m not making an endorsement, just
trying to help by putting some basic facts in front of you. Although I
was very happy with my 2-year old 13″ MacBook that is still relatively
clean and going strong after 15 months on the field.]
Netbook
Pros: 1.) It’s small, so you can put it just about anywhere in your daypack. 2.) It’s usually cheaper. If you’re looking to buy something specifically for the Race, this is a cost-effective option.
Cons: 1.) It has limited
functionality. Netbooks usually have fewer inputs and drives than a
laptop. 2.) It’s smaller. it may not be a big deal, but it could take
some getting used to if you’re used to a traditional laptop.
functionality. Netbooks usually have fewer inputs and drives than a
laptop. 2.) It’s smaller. it may not be a big deal, but it could take
some getting used to if you’re used to a traditional laptop.
Laptop
Pros:1.) Of the three options, the laptop has maximum functionality. You
can do everything from create documents, to Skype, to watch movies. 2.)
You may already have one. Even if you think what you have is too big,
it’ll fit in your daypack, especially if you buy a daypack specifically
for this purpose.
Cons: 1.) It could be
expensive. Whether you buy the computer for the Race specifically, or
are using one you already have, your computer probably represents an
investment and you run the risk of losing or damaging it. 2.) It’s the
heaviest option. While even the biggest laptop will fit in your
daypack, you may get tired of carrying it into town once a week.
expensive. Whether you buy the computer for the Race specifically, or
are using one you already have, your computer probably represents an
investment and you run the risk of losing or damaging it. 2.) It’s the
heaviest option. While even the biggest laptop will fit in your
daypack, you may get tired of carrying it into town once a week.
Tablet
Pros:1.) It’s sweet. If you have an iPad, or even some other tablet that’s
coming out, you’ll probably be the coolest kid on your squad. 2.) It’s
the smallest option. This would be by far your smallest, lightest
option.
Cons: 1.) It’s flashy. If
you pull this thing out in an internet cafe or coffee shop, you’re
going to draw attention to yourself. That’s generally a safety no-no.
2.) It’s going to need some accessories. You’re going to need some sort
of keyboard to go with it, because typing on the screen all the time
will get old. You’ll probably need some kind of hard drive as most of
them don’t have much storage space.
