Buying a computer system/ANOTHER PC

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Expert: - 8/6/2010


Question
I want a laptop to take around with me but I also want a second desktop so two people in the house can work together.  I dont like the posture issues with the laptop or the keyboard or the pad you use instead of a mouse, and would like a large screen for working with photos.  Can you use a laptop as a desktop by plugging in a separate keyboard and mouse and big screen?  Then it has the advantage of being portable, but used just like a desktop at home as well.  Would that work or is there some reason why it can't be done?
Many thanks for your help! Sue

Answer
Yes, you can connect external peripherals to a notebook assuming it has the available connectors - generally speaking keyboards and mice available today will connect via USB, and most modern laptops have at least two USB ports. If you need more USB connections, you can purchase a USB Hub to add more ports to the laptop - simply connect your devices through that.

-bob

Buying a computer system

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Bobbert

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I have nearly two decades of experience in IT, computer repair, and related fields and will attempt to provide the most solid, brand-agnostic advice when it comes time to purchase a new computer, or upgrade an existing machine. I can answer anything from the seemingly basic to the downright complicated - and will do my best to provide this information in a clear and concise manner.

Experience

I have been an enthusiast of PC's for many years, and can answer questions about the purchase/use of a new computer or the purchase, installation, and use of upgrades for existing computers. There probably isn't a whole lot related to the home computer that I haven't seen over the years.

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15+ years of experience

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