7.  Firewire Port Accessory

“Installing the ExpressCard today ensures that all your existing and future high bandwidth devices will operate at their optimum performance, without processing bottlenecks”

A lot of Netbook users will notice right away that there are no available firewire ports available in todays models for photography, video, and additional hard drive needs.  Lenovo has introduced the first netbook in the United States with a Express Card slot for its S10.  Most likely, this will become a universal staple for future netbooks, but for now it’s important to note the size of your slot, 34 mm or 54mm.  These cards are very handy and for under $70, one could be all yours.  

6.  External DVD Writer w/ Lightscribe

“The LG GP08-LU10 Slim 8X External DVD Writer is worth considering because of its sleek design, great portability (slim and AC adaptor-less functionality), and good price”

Again, to save space and carrying weight, you’ll notice that netbooks don’t come equipped with DVD or CD players, let alone writers.  How do you read discs or burn you ask?  Easy, LG’s USB 2.0 External Super Multi DVD Burner.  Thats a mouthful to say but these devices are essential to create backups discs and install software from cd.  Another great feature is that AC power is not needed, simply plug in the USB cable and it powers itself.  Floppy drives came and went and soon Blu-ray will be the industry minimum, but for now LG has made a essential product available for about $100 (and the lightscribe is a fun feature too!)  check out dizzybang’s review:

Click here to view the embedded video.

5. External Pointing Device

Because of their size and computing power, netbooks are great for presentations.  But if you want to run your powerpoint effectively, you need freedom of mobility to reach your audience.  Wireless mice and presenters are handy gadgets that give the user a variety of presentation options.

“A worthy alternative to a laptop’s built-in pointing device, this downsized mouse is convenient for travel, but it sacrifices some comfort for its compact size”

For under $30 you can find a wireless mouse like this one from microsoft that runs on 2 AA batteries for about 3 months per battery set.  The wireless range of these mice on new batteries is about 5 ft, so the design is meant for those of us who grow weary of the trackball or touchpad devices.

“This easy-to-use wireless device offers effortless PowerPoint presentation controls with built-in laser pointer”

The wireless presenter from Targus is cool new device specifically for presentations.  It has a 30 ft wireless range and is ideal for large conference rooms.  Whether you are teaching a class or hosting a fantasy draft, this $40 presenter is a great addition.

Click here to view the embedded video.

somehow buy.com did a review without even opening the package?!

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