Thursday, December 30, 2004

Surplus Computers and Discount Computers Are New Computers!

Surplus computer just means that manufacturer excess, overstock, and slightly obsolete inventories in HUGE quantities were purchased. What that means for you, our customer, is truly remarkable discount computer prices! These benefits and values of surplus computers were traditionally available to only large volume commercial buyers, dealers, and corporate level buyers. But now discount computers are also sold retail so you can get all the benefits too.



The sellers of surplus computers and discount computers are committed to offering tremendous savings to you, the retail customer. Desktop PCs, laptops, notebooks, barebones, whole computer systems, computer accessories, everything in computers you can find in surplus and discount computers.



Repackaged products are sometimes sold as surplus computers or discount computers but they are always evaluated, tested and quality assured, fully functional and repackaged for shipment.



Also, sometimes sold as surplus computers or discount computers are open Box products which are retested, quality assured, fully functional and complete. The customer can expect original manufacturer packaging.



B. Archer
A1-Computers.net

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Monday, December 20, 2004

DVD Writer; Should You Buy One Yet?

DVD writers are the quickest growing division in the storage industry today. Because the optical CD is quickly becoming outdated by size limits DVD writers are positioned to become the next common storage method. They also give you the ability to generate your own digital quality movies. Every parent in the country wants one to share there child’s new milestones on a permanent high quality device. So does this all mean its the right time for you to run out and buy one?

The advantages:

Two advantages to the DVD writers you can buy today are storage and digital video. The standards out there will store 4.7 gigabytes or more on a single disk. That is eight times the capacity of the standard CD media on the market.

If you are using a DVD writer to create backups of your data from your hard drive you will have much fewer discs in storage compared to those produced from a CD writer.

Most of the DVD writers on the market allow encoding of digital video from your computer to another source of DVD media that can be played back on most DVD players. This means you can take old VHS tapes and convert them to DVDs, which is a more permanent storage option and sent to friends and relatives much easier.

The disadvantages:

Which DVD writer do you buy? Right now there are four kinds in the DVD writers on the market; DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW. They each have advantages and disadvantages. The biggest disadvantage to all of them is that not one format is guaranteed to work on all DVD players.

DVD writer price may also be a disadvantage. Recordable CDs can be found for one
dollar or less. The average price at the time of this writing for a writeable DVD is $7 per disk. Per megabyte the price is similar to the CD, but mistakes in writing to the disk cost a lot more. As more and more people buy DVD writers this price will become more in line with the writable CD.


So now what?

Remember the 80's when there was Beta and VHS? My brother in law opted to get the
Beta. Boy was he disappointed when VHS won out and he could no longer buy or rent
tapes for his machine! Well the same kind of battle is going on right now with the DVD writer formats. So us consumers are left waiting to see which format will win. What does this mean to you? If you get a drive now the format of the drive may not end up being the one finally selected by the industry. Then your data will not be compatible with the newer drives. Which could lead to more expensive media because most manufacturers only produce for the largest segment of the market. (Ex. Microsoft vs. Apple) Once the single standard format of DVD writers is chosen the price will drop because the license fees that the manufacturers have to pay will go down which will provide more competition for the consumer. Right now there is no clear indication of when this standard format will be selected.


You say you want a DVD writer today?

If you just can't wait there is hope! Sony just started selling their DRU-500A DVD
recordable drive. It supports all the 'current' DVD and CD recording standards that are on the market today. If you buy this drive it will support whichever drive is selected for the industry standard. But, if you wait and buy a DVD writer later you will eventually have a selection of standard drive formats, better performing drives and the price will probably be much lower than the drives on the market today.


B. Archer
A1-Computers.net

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  • Saturday, December 18, 2004

    What kind of processor do you need on your new Desktop PC?

    If you plan to do basic office work on you new Desktop PC or the usual Internet stuff; surfing and email, any processor will work for your computer equipment needs.

    Will just any computer equipment do for you?
    You say you need a Desktop PC to work with graphics, Video, Music, or large databases? Than on your new computer equipment you will really need more power then the basic new computer provides. AMD Athlon XP or Intel Pentium4 is your best bets for this kind of work. Either will support the most demanding work. Bargain price computer systems with either kind of chip with fast speeds can be found.

    For Desktop PCs Intel has a newer motherboard chip for its Pentium4 and Celeron. With the higher speed front side bus, data moves more quickly from the processor to the system memory. You can find these boards on Intel's 850 and 845 models. Just check the front side bus speed to make sure you are getting the right one before you buy computer.

    A1-Computers

    Your Guide To Basic Computer Terminology

    Ram? Mouse? Isn't one a animal and one a rodent? Ram...that’s the zodiac sign for Aries... If this is what these words mean to you than you can surely use this quick glossary of computer terminology. It would be a good idea to read through them before purchasing a computer because these are things you should know about first. If you already have a computer then these computer terms can help you know what to do if your new computer equipment is unfamiliar. Lastly, this computer terminology can help you if you have to call in for technical help.

    Lets go!

    Cache: Cache is another type of memory kindred to RAM. The computer uses cache to quickly move data between the RAM and the CPU.

    CD-ROM Drive: Most new computers now come with a CD-ROM drive as standard equipment. A CD-ROM drive reads data from a disc. These CDs look like a music CD, but hold data instead of music. CD-ROMs also contain games, dictionaries, recipe files, and lots of other things that you can load onto your computer.

    CPU: The CPU, or central processing unit, is the brains of the computer. Most new Windows based programs use a Pentium processor or a AMD Athlon XP. New Macs use a different type of CPU called Power PC.

    Disk Drive:Virtually all computers come with a disk drive that can read and save information on portable diskettes, also called floppy disks. You can use floppy disks to save information or to load new software onto your computer.

    Hard Drive: The hard drive is also called the hard disk. You'll probably never see it because it is nestled inside your computer. It's the computer's electronic filling cabinet, and it stores the computer's operating system, files, programs and documents.

    Keyboard: Just like a typewriter keyboard, this device is the primary way of inputting data into the computer programs.

    Megahertz (MHz): This is the clock speed of the microprocessor. The higher the number, the quicker the information is processed. MHz relates to how many millions of instructions can be processed per second.

    Memory:This is the circuitry or device that holds information in an electrical or magnetic form. There is read-only memory (ROM), which is information primarily stored on a disk, and random-access memory (RAM), which is chip-based storage inside the computer. Memory is typically measured in megabytes (MBs).

    Modem:This mechanism connects a computer to a phone line so information can be sent from one computer to another or the user can access an on-line service or the Internet. In view of the popularity of the Internet, a modem is now considered basic equipment and comes on practically all-new computers. Most modems come with fax capabilities.

    Monitor: An output device that allows you to see what you are doing (it is what you are looking into right now to see this). Most computers come with 14 or 15-inch monitors. This size is good for most people's needs. Larger 17 or 21-inch monitors also are available, but may cost more. Myself, I prefer the 17-inch.

    Motherboard:The motherboard is the circuit board that everything in the computer plugs into. The CPU, RAM and cache all plug into the motherboard.

    Mouse: The mouse is another input device that makes getting around in your computer easier. It is a handheld object that is good for doing tasks such as moving and pointing to objects on the screen, and can replace the function and control keys of the keyboard. (If you need a lesson on how the mouse works and how to use it click here for a tutorial.)

    Printer: A printer is an essential part of the computer if you want a hard copy of your work. There are four types of printers on the market: dot matrix, inkjet, bubble jet and laser. The dot matrix is the most basic. Most inkjets and bubble jets can print color and graphics, and a laser printer offers the best resolution at the highest speed.

    RAM:Computers save data in two ways: on the hard drive and in random access memory or internal memory. New computer buyers should look for models with at least 16 MBs of RAM (or more, depending on what types of programs you'll be running). Make sure that the computer can be upgraded.

    Scanner:A scanner is a useful accessory to have if you are working with lots of artwork or photos. This device can copy written documents, pictures or photographs directly into your computer. There are three types of scanners: handheld, hopper-feed and flatbed.

    Sound Card: This device allows your computer to reproduce music, sounds and voices. Make sure you have a sound card if you're planning to play multimedia games.

    Video Card: The video card is the part of the computer that sends the images to the monitor.

    Well there you have it, a quick course on computer terms. I hope it has helped to guide you in your purchase of a new computer; or to help you with the one you have.

    A1-Computers.net

    Friday, December 17, 2004

    Why Buy a New Laptop or Notebook Computer?

    Maybe you say your laptop works fine when it comes to word processing and internet e-mail. But, wouldn't it be fun to expand your notebook computer and be able to create your own music CDs, home movie DVDs, maybe some digital photography, or even some serious gaming! With a new laptop you could even use broadband to surf a lot faster...Isn't it time you checked out some of the new notebook computers?

    Processor:
    Intel's Pentium4 and AMD's Athlon XP processors now have significant gains in laptop performance since the last generation. The processor is what gives the notebook its power to get up and go. The newest notebook computer versions have much improved for a wide range of activities; broadband connections, surfing the web, printing digital photos, 3-D games, making music, and videos.

    Operating System:
    The new Microsoft Windows XP® has improved stability for laptops as well as pcs and its newest features make for a more enjoyable experience when working with digital music, digital photography, and videos. Notebook computer communication is also much easier with the new multimedia messaging and networking functionality.

    Memory:
    Most notebook computers now offer DDR SDRAM memory and it will give you a lot higher bandwidth, which in turn gives you better total system performance. Your experience with the new laptops will be better no matter which applications you are using.

    Network Interface Card:
    Most new laptops include integrated network interface cards. These give you a direct network connection and let you get connected to the latest modems like high speed DSL and cable modems as well. So with these new notebook computer interface cards you won't have to buy or install a separate card.

    Wireless:
    Of course, the main reason people want a laptop computer is because they can pick up and go. This wireless technology is a great benefit of the high-end notebook computer. With wireless you can hook up to the Internet, synchronize your handheld, print, with out cables to constantly connect and disconnect.


    Discover the very best laptop and notebook computers Check out some of the new and innovative laptop computers now on the market. Shop wisely and make sure your new notebook computer has all the great options you want before you click on 'check out'.

    B. Archer
    A1-Computers.net

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  • Thursday, December 16, 2004

    A1-Computers Site Index

    A1-Computers Site Index...to make your search easy


  • Main Site

  • What You Should Know Before You Buy Computer Equipment
    There are so many factors to consider when deciding on which
    computer equipment to buy. The bewildering amount of choices
    can seem overwhelming.


  • What kind of processor do you need on your new Desktop PC?
    Will just any computer equipment do for you?If you plan to do
    basic office work on you new Desktop PC or the usual Internet
    stuff; surfing and email, any processor will work for your computer
    equipment needs.


  • Why Buy a New Laptopor Notebook Computer?
    Discover the very best laptop and notebook computers.
    Wouldn't it be fun to expand your notebook computer
    and be able to create your own music CDs, home movie
    DVDs, maybe some digital photography, or even some
    serious gaming!


  • Surplus Computers and Discount Computers Are New Computers!
    Surplus computer just means that manufacturer excess, overstock,
    and slightly obsolete inventories in HUGE quantities were purchased.
    What that means for you, our customer, is truly remarkable discount
    computer prices!


  • What is a Refurbished Computer?
    Why buy new computer equipment when you can get the same
    refurbished computer at up to 80% savings and there is no difference
    in the quality or warranty?


  • Computer AccessoriesWe All Want For Our New Computer!


  • Articles and Tips
  • Decide On A PC Monitor Before You Buy Your New Computer
    Before you buy your new computer equipment you will want to
    decide on a PC monitor. After all you will be staring at it for the
    next few years! You will need to decide on the image quality,
    resolution, size, and type (CRT-LCD).


  • Never Used A Computer Mouse Before?
    This is a lesson for beginning computer mouse users.


  • Digital Cameras are a fun and convenient computer accessory
    Digital cameras are one of the most fun computer accessories -
    wouldn't you like to send some pictures to some friends and family
    by e-mail? A digital camera is the easiest way to do that.

  • Your Guide To Basic Computer Terminology
    It would be a good idea to read through these before purchasing
    a computer because these are things you should know about first.

  • Protect Your Computer
    Your computer is an expensive investment; you should protect it from. . .

  • Makeing Music CD's Using Your MP3 Files
    Would'nt it be great to play your downloaded MP3 files or WMA
    music on your home stereo or your portable CD player?

  • How To Buy A New Printer No matter if you are looking for, an ink jet, monochrome laser, or a color laser printer, you will find the information here that you need to buy a new printer. Different printers are designed to do different jobs. We will go over them feature by feature.

  • Questions To Answer Before Buying That New Computer Monitor.

  • Thinking of Buying a Refurbished Computer? What does refurbished mean? Well, it could mean several things. . .

  • The Photography Portfolio: Building Your Reputation If you have hopes of becoming a professional photographer, or even just of trying to get your work published in a public forum, you will
    need to create a photography portfolio.

  • More Related Articles

  • Link Partners Sites
    Here you will find web sites with offers and information related to computers.

  • Monday, December 13, 2004

    What You Should Know Before You Buy Computer Equipment

    There are so many factors to consider when deciding on which computer equipment to buy. The bewildering amount of choices can seem overwhelming. This guide will help you compare computer equipment features, and help you to examine and sift through many of the basic items before you buy a new computer. If it be a desktop PC, laptop, discount/surplus computer, a refurbished computer or a computer accessory, this quick guide will help you to get the most for your money.


    With today's computer equipment almost any of them will adequately handle what most people need to buy a new computer for; word processing, basic office, internet surfing and email. Which you can buy for about $1000. or less! But if you are into digital videos, photo editing, music, or manage a large database you will need more than the basic Desktop PC or Laptop. This higher end computer will cost you around $1500-$2000.


    (CPU) Processors
    There is always a lot of change in the computer market, but no matter what the upgrades there is always two basic choices to be made when purchasing computer equipment: 1) brand 2) speed. To buy a new computer that handles standard office and Internet tasks any processor will work.


    Need more 'power' in your computer equipment? Then the Intel Pentium4 or the AMD Athlon XP (great for graphics and photos which use a lot of memory space) are for you.If you buy a new computer one or two levels from the top you will only lose about five percent per tier performance but you can save a couple hundred dollars!


    (RAM) Memory
    Memory is very important because optimum running of your computer equipment is dependent on enough RAM. The minimum amount should be 256MB, for better performance you should get 512MB. If you can afford to buy a new computer with more, you should. It's worth it because you can keep more applications open and it will easily handle memory hogs like Photoshop and music applications!


    Monitors
    When buying computer equipment look for a monitor that is at least 17" with a resolution of 1280 by 1024 pixels. A Desktop PC with a 19-inch monitor gives you 20 % more screen area. If you can spend $300-$450 on a monitor when you buy a new computer you might want to get a 15" LCD because it has the same viewable area as the 17" CRT and takes up much less space.


    Hard Drives (storage)
    Most hard drives sold today will provide more than enough storage. The basic computer equipment comes with 40GB or larger, which is plenty for most tasks. But for working with graphics, video, music, or large databases 80GB should be the minimum you settle for. 7200-rpm drives give better performance. But for the best performance get a computer with 8MB of cache.


    Warranty and Tech Support
    A one-year warranty on most computer equipment is enough, because most problems seem to happen in the first year. If you want you can get an extended two to three year warranty for around $150. to $200. If you buy a Dell you can get priority call routing to tech support for a year for only $39.

    Author
    Bonnie Archer
    A1-computers.net



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