Saturday, February 25, 2006

Why You Should Learn Computer Building

Wow, would'nt it be great to get your dream computer and for much cheaper than you have ever dreamed?! Well, read on because it is very possible! A1-Computers--

Supper Deals of the week at TigerDirect

I was doing a little looking around at several different computer systems. I really took an interested in the DELL XPS computer system. Dell’s XPS computers starting price for the basic system is a whapping 999.00 dollars. I was totally dumb founded after looking at the components that Dell was going to put in that computer system for that kind of money it wasn't a very good deal at all.

What most people fail to realize is that if you look at the basic or standard components that are put in the computer system. That is what you get. If you want more your price tag will go up considerably. The price tag on Dell’s top xps system starts at 1800. 00 dollars. That is again for the standard components that are more improved then there basic modal but still not a good value if you look at the big picture.

Just recently a friend of mine asked me if I could build him a computer system equivalent to the dell XPS 600 modal. There top XPS computer, and how much it would coast. That’s when I started looking at there system because I really have no reason to look at the computers on the market because I build my own computer. Ever since the first thousand dollars I wasted on an assembly line computer that I won’t go into at this time.

After looking at what was offered in the XPS 600 modal I was able to go to my computer hardware source and find competitive components or even better components then what was offered in that computer system the (XPS600). Also I was able to use some of the computer parts that were in the system that this system was going to be replaced with. I was able to come up with a considerable savings of more then 700.00 dollars.

I built this computer system for my friend who is a real on line gaming nut. He is very happy and I made 200.00 and what was left of his other system. Just to give you an idea. Here is a little bit of what I was able to put in this computer system. A duel core AMD 4600 processor, a gigabyte PCI 16 Express motherboard with sli technology, Also a 7800 256 NVIDIA pci express card along with 1 gig of hyper X DDR ram, and a plextor DVD burner. A 250 gig serial ata hard drive with 8 Meg cach, and I was even able to give him his own OEM Full version of XP Windows PRO. Not an installed version that you have to pay for if you ever need it. I put all this and a few other little extras in an Aspire X- Paider aluminum black case with a 500 watt power supply. With an open side panel and 4 led lighted fans. Really puts on a show just sitting there.

This computer system was a gaming system I put together for a friend of mine. You can build a basic computer for your basic needs, and save yourself a lot of money. If you have a computer you can use parts that are on it, and upgrade your computer for less than 300 dollars. Remember this and that is in this world you can ether get what you pay for. Or pay for what you get. The choice is yours.

For more information on buying a new computer visit our website. Be sure to check out our Dell Coupons and our sales and online specials page to get the best deals on your next computer.

Robert Emler: I build computers as a hobby. It’s not my job and it’s not what I do for a living. I do it because it’s fun and interesting. And I don’t want to get ripped of by some shop because I don’t know what I have. It’s like the hot rod car owners. That’s their hobby, and a lot of them have some really sweet cars. So they must know what their doing. Learn to build your own computer or at least take the time to find out what your computer is all about so you don’t get taken advantage of some day. All most all computer shops will charge you $50 just to take the side off your computer system. To learn more about your computer, or even how to build your own personal computer, you can. Just go here to http://pcextream.com/ answer any questions. You can also eMail me at bob29tie@neo.rr.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Emler

Friday, February 17, 2006

The World's first OS X virus hits Apple

By John E. Dunn, Techworld

As Reported On Techworld on 16 February 2006

Apples Mac OS X software has been hit by a mischievous instant messaging virus the first ever to target the platform.

The virus, dubbed Leap-A by anti-virus company Sophos, is said to spread using Apples iChat IM service, forwarding itself as a file called latestpics.tgz to an infected users buddy contacts.


Clicking on the file allows the malware to install and disguise itself as a harmless-seeming Jpeg icon.

Leap-A is believed to have originally been posted on a website for Apple users, posing as a software update. Although the virus is benign, and is not believed to be spreading in large numbers, it still marks a minor landmark for a platform that has come to be seen in some quarters as immune to such mundane security issues.

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Its probably been written for publicity or as a proof-of-concept, said Graham Cluley of Sophos. "Some owners of Mac computers have held the belief that Mac OS X is incapable of harbouring computer viruses, but Leap-A will leave them shell-shocked, as it shows that the malware threat on Mac OS X is real," he said.

Cluley said that some Apple users were claiming that Leap-A was somehow not a real virus because it required the victim to click on the link, an objection he branded as ridiculous. Many PC viruses needed user interaction to set off infection, he pointed out, and this was no different.

Despite being aimed at Apple users, the virus follows broader trends in attempting to spread by way of instant messaging, the new application target of choice. This is seen as a less protected channel, and therefore a point of vulnerability.

Although this is unlikely to be the last virus aimed at Apple users, it has a mischievous old-world feel to it. As with PCs, an increasing number of the platforms security concerns now revolve around exploiting specific software vulnerabilities rather than code that aims to spread mayhem as well as itself.


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  • Wednesday, February 15, 2006

    Your Computer Needs Backup

    Save, Save, Save and save often! That is what my Graphic Design Professor always drilled into our heads in college, and he was right. It is always when you least expect it and you've been working hard and then, boom, its gone and you want to kick yourself because you knew better, you knew you should have saved it! A1-Computers—




    The Best Values on Multimedia Drives


    It doesn’t matter if you paid $500.00 or $2000.00 to purchase a new computer for your home or business you will defiantly want to have some kind of insurance and backing up your computer is the best form of protection there is. An interesting fact is that in the business world the data your computer holds is more important than the computer itself!

    When anyone buys a computer today they are most likely to be using windows, the most widely accepted operating system on the market. Windows comes with a software utility called backup that lets the user copy all their files and other data onto various media. It is recommended to backup your computer once a week, but if a lot of data is added within a couple of days or so you may consider so daily. First and foremost a backup should include your system settings and important files, and then you can pick and choose to copy e-mail, favorites, pictures, ECT or make a full backup to cover everything.

    There are problems with backups of the human sort. It pains me to say some people (even professionals) are lazy or inconsistent when it comes to backups. They either forget or simply don’t bother until it’s too late because the backup was not updated to include their current data this oversight can ruin a business! Some people will also neglect to have in place having any sort of labeling system for past and current backups with dates, times or other crucial information. If you are backing up onto magnetic tapes like floppy disks (these are not practical anymore because they only hold about 1.5mb of data), you should keep them away from anything that can produce a magnate field like motors, phones and power supplies also keep them away from excessive heat, cold and moisture.

    The media used depends on factors like cost, time, type, and connivance of use. The most common type of media backup used is CD-R and CD-RW the first one is cheap but you will use a lot of them for a full backup because they hold only 650 MB of data. The second is more expensive and has the same limitations (as CD-R’s), but has the ability to be written on again and again (Re- Writeable). Both of these will not be able to hold video files.

    Another way to go is by using a DVD-R or DVD-RW disks that can hold around 5 GB (GigaBites) of data an can hold digital video files as well. (That’s my personal favorite).

    Zip drives are also a preferred storage device that can hold 750 MB and also external hard drives that up to 150 GB. There are other types of data storage media, these are just a few.

    What it boils down to is everyone should use there backups correctly, use the best media for your present needs, but also try to anticipate what you might need in the future.

    iomega04

    For many more computer tips.

    Robert Hanania is a student of the internet, learning about home based businesses and computers. I am currently promoting my web page. All are welcome to visit me at

    http://www.fileanddatarecovery.com

    Monday, February 13, 2006

    How to Increase Your Computer Speed Fast

    Here is a great article to get your computer cleaned and moving quicker with a few simple clicks! A1-Computers--

    I'm sure you've come across tons of articles and even suggestions from some of your friends on how to get your computer to work faster. Its really not that hard to increase your internet speed. I'm going to make it real simple for you and you don't need to be a computer geek to make this work. The first thing you need to remember is to never, and I mean absolutely never download programs especially free software without reading the fine print. Most free computer software will bombard your computer with spyware which will eventually bring your internet speed to a screeching halt! If your computer is already infected with spyware you can download the leading spyware remover called ad-aware which will scan your computer and remove spyware and tracking cookies from your computer.

    Adware/Spyware Remover - Free Scan!

    Another way of making your computer and internet connection faster is by clicking on start, then run and typing in msconfig. Go to start tab and remove any program except your antivirus software and any other program which you must have start when windows starts. This tip will increase your computer start up time dramatically!

    Step number 3, and I do this almost on a daily basis is to clean up your internet cache. Go to your control panel which you can access from your start button and click on internet options. Go to temporary internet files and clear your history. I would recommend that you also set internet history to a maximum of 2 days. Next step is to delete your temporary internet files including offline content. Last step is to delete cookies. Be careful though because deleting your cookies will also delete useful information from your computer. You can read a how to on cookies here www.howstuffworks.com/cookie.htm.

    These steps are the basics you can take which will speed up your internet connection immediately. I would also recommend doing a virus check on your computer on a weekly basis. If you don't have antivirus software, get it! You'll be happy you did. Just one virus can wreak havoc on your computer! Make sure you test your internet speed whether its broadband or dial-up, before and after you take these simple steps so you can compare if these steps you've taken have worked. Taking these basic steps will make you a happy surfer and will restore your faith in the World wide web!

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    For more computer tips

    About the author:Gio Mangano is the owner of http://www.bandwidtht1.com/which offers Instant quotes on T1 Line and business DSL. Gio Mangano also publishes a blog on computer tips and tricks and improving your internet speed at http://bandwidthspeedtest.blogspot.com

    Circulated by Article Emporium

    Sunday, February 12, 2006

    Introduction to Tablet PCs

    The Tablet PC is a notebook or slate-shaped mobile computer that is approximately the size of a paper tablet. It gives us portability, flexibility and usability that are changing the way we work with our computers. Its touch screen or digitizing tablet technology allows the user to operate the computer with a stylus or digital pen instead of a keyboard or mouse.



    Banner


    Tablet PCs will have two formats: the "convertible" model with an integrated keyboard and a display that rotates 180 degrees and can be folded down over the keyboard, and the "slate" model with only a screen and pen. They can use external wireless or USB keyboards. The most popular convertible tablet PCs are the Acer and Toshiba. The most popular slates are the Motion Computing/Gateway Computers, Fujitsu, and HP/Compaq.

    Many Tablet PCs use a Wacom digitizer, which delivers pen-position input to the computer at a fast rate. Tablets with these digitizers project a small magnetic field above the screen that interacts with electronics in the tablet's stylus. The user therefore is able to rest their hand on the screen without affecting the image or mouse pointer; only movement of the stylus affects the mouse pointer.

    Tablet PCs became available to the general public with the introduction of Microsoft's Windows Tablet PC Edition in the fall of 2002. Before then they were used in small markets in industry, medicine, and government. Now they are used by students and many professionals.

    Let us now have a look at the improvements in Tablet PCs:

    •The battery life of Tablet PCs has increased a great deal. This gives us more freedom to do what we need to do when we need to do it. We're free to take our computers into meetings and classrooms and to take notes the way that's most familiar, by writing. Centrino technology has improved. This means that more powerful processors can be used with little or no loss of battery life compared to lower powered CPUs.

    •Better wireless support allows us to log on to networks more easily than ever, with built in firewire. All this convenience comes packaged in a 3 pound computer that's not much bigger than a paper tablet.

    •Those who don't type have the option to use handwriting, can use keyboard to enter data. Others may prefer speech input, or a combination of both. We're free to take our computers into meetings and classrooms and to take notes the way that's most familiar, by writing.

    •Tablet PCs are lighter than the majority of notebooks. Most weigh about 3 pounds or less. Size is also smaller, with the Tablet PC about the size of a paper tablet. Some of the newer Tablets have larger screen sizes or built-in drives. These can increase the weight considerably.

    •The Tablet PC uses a low or ultra-low voltage CPU chip that's actually considerably faster than its "number" indicates. This also improves battery life. With the introduction of the Intel Centrino and Dothan, the Intel-based Tablet PCs will be comparable with faster desktops. As an example, according to Intel, a Centrino 1.6Ghz processor is comparable to 2.4Ghx Pentium4-M.

    •Some Tablet PC models are including a CDRW-DVD drive within the unit. Some have USB or firewire models available. There are also third party drives available.

    •The Tablet PC can use the pen technology in PowerPoint presentations, etc. These annotations can be saved for future presentations or erased completely. Using a Tablet PC with a projector allows the presenter to annotate slides, etc as he speaks.

    •The Tablet PC can be used in both portrait and landscape modes. A touch of the button changes it instantly. There's no need to reboot.

    •Tablet PCs generally use a 1024x768 screen resolution. High-resolution displays and Microsoft's Clear Type display technology make the Tablet PC an excellent reading platform. Video is also improving with one model offering a resolution of 1400x1050.

    •Some Tablet PCs offer fingerprint scanners for increased security. There are also 3rd party devices such as USB pen drives that contain a security lock. Without the pen drive, the information on the Tablet PC is irretrievable.

    Tablet PCs are changing the way we use computers. They’ll continue to do so and in more ways than we’re currently envisioning. As this year progresses, expect to see more innovations in features and size and even more availability and features galore, including dual core processors and better graphics.

    For information on purchasing a cheap laptop visit our website. Be sure to check out the Laptop Directory for our recomended online resources to get the best deals on your next laptop.

    Robert Scheer researches and writes about Tablet PC computers for http://www.tablet-pc-online.com

    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Scheer

    Friday, February 10, 2006

    Apple unveils another iPod

    Now is the perfect time to get your new iPod; check out the new lower prices! A1-Computers--

    By: AP
    February 9, 2006



    Special Deals_135x205



    San Jose, California: Apple Computer beefed up its iPod product mix on Tuesday with a new 1-GB version of the nano and lower-priced Shuffles.

    The pencil-thin, flash memory-based nano now ranges from $149 (Rs 6,600) for the new 1-GB model to $249 (Rs 11,000) for the 4-GB model. Previously, the 2-GB nano was the lowest-capacity and least expensive model at $199 (Rs 8,800).

    Apple also cut the prices of its Shuffle players. The 512-MB version dropped from $99 (Rs 4,400) to $69 (Rs 3,000) and the 1-GB model was discounted from $129 (Rs 5,700) to $99.

    Get the new 1 GB iPod Nano at the Apple Store, US. Free
    engraving & shipping.


    As reported on Mid Day News

    Wednesday, February 08, 2006

    What Really Causes Your PC’s Poor Performance

    It is so important to keep your computer maintained to keep it in quick running condtion! After all who likes a slow computer. Read on to see what slows 'you' down and how you can keep your computer moving. A1-Computers--

    What Is Really Behind Your PC’s Poor Performance
    By: The Bug Doctor


    Keeping a computer running smoothly and quickly is a never-ending job. It seems like no time after you take your brand-new PC out of the box, your computer starts acting up and performing more like the old PC you got rid of than the new one it is supposed to be. While this is extremely frustrating, it can be prevented if you know what is causing your PC’s poor performance and how to fix the problems behind it or avoid them in the first place.

    The nastiest things that corrupt your PC are the things you can’t see. Nasty bugs like viruses, adware and spyware can wreak havoc with your system without you even being aware of it. At their most lethal, viruses can completely destroy your PC’s operation, but normally they just work to interfere with the daily operations of your computer. Adware and spyware, on the other hand, stay running in the background of your PC and can slow it down considerably.

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    Here’s a closer look:

    · Computer viruses are PC software programs that you accidentally download to your computer through an email attachment or other type of download. Once installed on your computer, a virus can interfere with your PC’s operation; record, corrupt or delete data; and spread itself to other computers through your network or the internet.

    · Spyware and adware are software programs that you download onto your computer along with many other software applications. This software is then used to track your online browsing habits so that you can be “hit” with pop ups that you will be more likely to respond to. Not only is this software an invasion of your privacy, it also can compromise your data and affect your PCs performance.

    Not only can things that you download from the internet onto your computer affect its performance, software that is already installed or software that you install through your CD drive can also create problems. You see, some software that you have on your PC stays running in the background even if you are not using the program. This can dramatically affect your PC’s execution times, especially if there is more than one hidden program running. To see if you have programs running in the background, press Ctrl + Alt + Delete at the same time. The box that pops up will show you all applications that are running.

    Other things that can affect your PC’s performance include a hard drive that is too full, not enough memory to perform tasks and a fragmented hard drive. All of these problems can be solved by performing routine maintenance on your PC or purchasing a software package that does it all for you. If you choose to do it yourself, you will need to manually go into your Windows System Tools and launch each program. Here you will find several system optimizers to help you free up your disk space, defragment your PC, and detect and repair disk errors.

    Even the process of adding and deleting programs can affect your PC’s performance. When you install and uninstall Windows programs, they leave behind parts or applications that can slow down your computer. You may even unknowingly delete a file needed for other software applications. This can result in a minor glitch or a complete failure with some programs or even your whole system.

    Keep Your PC Performing Like New

    One of the first things that you should do to protect your PC’s performance is install a firewall if you don’t already have one and use adequate security software to prevent intrusions. You should also have additional spyware and adware detectors if your security software does not have them.

    You can also purchase additional software that will keep your system optimized on a regular basis and take care of all of the problems that we talked about. This is an advantage over doing it yourself because it is very easy to forget to perform maintenance, and let’s face it; who has time to manually perform all of these functions?

    You should also get a free hidden error scan to see if your PC is operating with any hidden errors that can ruin your PC’s performance. Since 94% of computers do have hidden errors, yours probably does too, but hidden errors are easy to eliminate with the right software.

    With all of these things that can affect your PC’s performance, there is no wonder that it continually loses efficiency over time. But you can prevent it, if you stay on top of it.

    For more computer tips


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    About the Author: Written by The Bug Doctor The Bug Doctor will fix hidden bugs and errors on your PC and restore lost performance and speed that is lost over time.
    http://www.BugDoctor.com

    Source: http://www.providingarticles.com/

    Monday, February 06, 2006

    Multi-Monitor Solutions You Can Afford

    Benefits of Multiple Monitors
    There has been much ado as of late about the benefits of increased desktop space. Multiple studies have shown that more computer desktop space equals faster work, greater productivity, and increased employee satisfaction. Most computer users would agree that there’s a certain amount of frustration connected with constant window switching and a miniscule desktop.

    Technology for the Everyman
    With droping monitor and multi-port video card prices, the possibility of having multiple monitors for your computer is no longer a rich man’s fantasy. There are any number of affordable solutions and possibilities for those looking to reap the benefits afforded by increased desktop space.

    Two Ports are Better Than One ?
    First you should purchase a multi-port video card that supports multiple monitors. Most new mid-to high end cards will have at least two out ports and will support two or three monitors, while some specialty cards will support up to four. Video cards come in a couple of flavors (DVI and VGA), so you can either scratch the high-def itch or use your old VGA monitor. Some may even have both types on the same card.

    Two Cards, Better Than One?
    Another possibility is to run two separate video cards off of your motherboard. There are some limitations to this option. First, both cards must have chips from the same manufacturer. That means that you can only pair up two ATi or two NVidia cards. Also, the two cards have to use a different type of slot (AGP and PCI, for example). The only exceptions to this are cards that feature special technology allowing dual video cards to be paired up, like NVidia’s SLI technology, for example.

    Add an Extra Port to Your Laptop
    Laptop users have a different set of solutions. Most newer laptops come with some sort of video out option, so you can pair up your laptop screen with an external monitor to get an instant dual-monitor setup. If you’re looking for more, however, the VTBook DVI PCMCIA card is a great option. This expensive, yet impressive solution creates an additional DVI-D port using your laptop’s PCMCIA cardslot. This port can be split using special dual head cables, allowing you to gain up to 3 additional monitor outputs.

    Split the Signal with the Matrox DualHead2Go
    For those looking to go with something a little bit more economical, there’s the Matrox DualHead2Go, a unique product that splits your signal externally, enabling multiple monitors with a completely external, hardware-based approach. This solution has been geared heavily towards business travelers who are looking for a way to experience the benefits of a multi-monitor desktop while on the road. One of the best features about this Matrox adapter is that it requires no hardware installation on the laptop itself, and the split video signal experiences absolutely no degradation or signal loss. Matrox has also included an online compatibility guide, so you can make sure it’ll work with your setup before you buy.

  • Save on your next computer purchase with these Dell Coupons.


    Nathan Kartchner works in Product Development for Sewell Direct, an online retailer specializing in connectivity and audio/visual solutions, such as the Matrox DualHead2Go and the Splitronic Broadband Aggregator.
    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nathan_Kartchner

  • Wednesday, February 01, 2006

    Notebooks Sales Have Passed Desktop Sales In The U.S.

    We Americans love our mobility; and the new numbers prove it.

    go_234x60

    The numbers are here, the U.S. is a notebook country.

    As reported on ZDNet News on February 1, 2006 the sale of notebooks has passed the desktop in retail for the first time ever; according to a new report from the Current Analysis. In 2004 notebooks sold were 43 percent of the United States retail sales and desktops accounted for 57 pecent. In 2005 notebooks sold 50.9 percent and while desktops accounted for 49.1 percent of retail sales.

    These retail figures exclude the sales of large resellers to corporations and direct sales from companies like Dell. The US accounts for only about 9 percent of the worldwide market.

    Low prices are the main reason for the growing sales of laptops. Many manufacturers are now offering high performance notebooks for about $1,000 and base level notebooks can be bought for around $499-$699.


    For a more in-depth story on this visit ZDNet News:

    rokr_v2_175x45

    For more articles on cheap laptops