Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Unboxing and Setup
3. Keyboard and Design
4. Installing VS Code
5. Working Offline
6. Designing with Figma
7. Programming on the Chromebook
8. User Feedback and Experiences
9. Conclusion
Introduction
📚 **Unboxing and Setup**
When it comes to programming, the brand new Asus Chromebook is a viable option. In this article, we will explore whether the Asus Chromebook is suitable for programming tasks. We'll start by unboxing the device and going through the setup process. We'll also take a closer look at the keyboard, an essential component for programmers.
📦 **Unboxing and Setup**
Upon unboxing the Asus Chromebook, I was pleasantly surprised by the additional features and ports it offered. Unlike some other Chromebooks, this model comes with a few extras that can enhance the programming experience. The keyboard, in particular, caught my attention. As a programmer, having a comfortable and functional keyboard is crucial. The keys on the Asus Chromebook have a nice bounce to them, and the wide backlight ensures visibility even in low-light conditions. The inclusion of arrow keys and a numpad is a welcome addition, providing convenience and ease of use.
💻 **Installing VS Code**
To make the most of the Asus Chromebook for programming, I decided to install my favorite Integrated Development Environment (IDE), Visual Studio Code (VS Code). Since Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, which supports Linux applications, I downloaded the Dev version of VS Code specifically designed for Linux. It's important to ensure compatibility with the Chromebook's CPU architecture, and since this model uses an Intel processor, I was able to download the regular Dev version, which offers improved performance. However, before launching VS Code, there were a few additional steps I needed to take.
🔌 **Working Offline**
One common misconception about Chromebooks is that they require a constant internet connection. However, I discovered that many applications, including VS Code, can still be used offline. While general browsing may not be possible without an internet connection, launching applications like VS Code or other offline-ready apps is still feasible. This flexibility allows programmers to work on their projects even in environments without Wi-Fi access. However, it's important to prepare certain aspects in advance, such as backing up databases, files, and content, to ensure smooth offline work.
🎨 **Designing with Figma**
Designing websites and applications is an integral part of programming, and I wanted to test the capabilities of the Asus Chromebook in this area. Using applications like Figma, I found that the larger screen size of the Chromebook compared to my MacBook made designing more comfortable. The menus and tools in Figma didn't obstruct the design itself, allowing for a seamless workflow. Whether converting designs or creating new ones, the Asus Chromebook proved to be a capable device for designers and developers alike.
💻 **Programming on the Chromebook**
After exploring the design aspect, I delved into programming on the Asus Chromebook. Surprisingly, I found that I could perform most programming tasks that I would typically do on a PC or Mac. The Chromebook's compatibility with Linux applications, including VS Code, allowed me to code without limitations. However, it's worth noting that emulating iOS or Android devices may require a more powerful machine. Nevertheless, the Asus Chromebook proved to be a reliable companion for coding projects.
🗣️ **User Feedback and Experiences**
To gain a broader perspective, I looked into user feedback and experiences with Chromebooks for programming. It was interesting to discover that many students and beginners in programming found Chromebooks to be suitable for their needs. Whether using them for university studies or learning to code through platforms like freeCodeCamp, Chromebooks provided a cost-effective and efficient solution. The versatility and portability of Chromebooks make them a viable option for aspiring
