A1-computers

Dell Computers and Dell Coupons

2008-10-29T05:46:00.000-04:00

Inspiron desktops are highly configurable. For almost any type of home PC user, one can be customized to match their needs. Inspiron notebooks and desktops serve as multimedia centers that let you create your own movies, burn CD's and watch DVD's. For the business user Dell offers a line of Latitude notebooks that are lightweight for the frequent traveller, and yet powerful enough to tackle difficult computing tasks.

Dell coupons are updated real-time and much of the Internet is searched to ensure that this is a complete list of product specials and deals for Dell Technology. (1) Dell Coupons are very popular with consumers. Each month there are over 125,000 searches made for Dell Coupons.[2]

[1] http://www.michiganbusiness.us/branddeals.php?id=342
[2] http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/11-17-2005-81650.asp

Dell Computers

2008-05-21T02:23:00.001-04:00

Dell Computers are one of the leading brands for laptops and desktop computers online. The Dell.com store offers a wide range of computer products, catering for all home, gaming and business needs. Dell computers are purchased directly from their Online Store or via Internet or telephone. Dell has educational and student discounts Dell is one of the biggest home and business computer retailers in the US. Dell specializes in building high quality, high specification computers and they supplying direct. Also, Dells are available at a discount to nonprofit organizations through a program sponsored by the Tech Foundation.

Dell computers are excellent for gaming, too, with a system called XPS, the latest in gaming technology. Dell sells all the accessories and components you need – there is even a mouse and keyboard designed especially for game players!

Dell provides coupons for deals on their computers. Each week they offer different deals though there affiliates. Just go to your favorite search engine and type in “dell coupons” or “dell stackable coupons” (sometime they have stackable coupons which means you can use more than one at a time) and you will find a plenty of websites that provide the coupons for you.

Just make sure you read everything and know exactly what you want and what you are getting and the price before you buy.

Computer Cables and Adapters 101

2007-11-05T01:18:00.000-05:00

Computer cables and adapters allow you to connect your computer either to a network or to hardware. Several computer cables and adapters have emerged, but which one is right for your computer system? Read on to find out.

Types of computer cables and adapters

Computer networking cables connect your computer to a mother network. These tools are most commonly used in offices to connect the computer to a single server. Apart from networking cables, there are also USB, printer, and monitor cables. These cables all perform different functions in your computer. The Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable allows for hardware devices to be connected to your computer. USBs are best for plug-and-play devices. Printer cables connect the printer to your cable. Without it, you cannot print documents and images. Finally, a monitor cable connects the monitor to your computer.

Computer adapters

Computer adapters connect your computer to a computer network. There are several types of computer networks available. There is the 1394 net adapter port that connects your computer through a cable. This type of adapter provides FireWire ports for digital devices. Another type of adapter is the 1394 net adapter plug. A 1394 adapter connects to the computer directly.

Making the right choice

In choosing the right computer cables and adapters, it is important to check for compatibility. Do not just buy any cable or adapter – be sure that it is well-suited to your computer’s, your laptop’s, or your hardware’s specifications. Also, for faster connections, choose only a 1394 net adapter that has a 800 Mbps transfer rate for better file transfers.

A complete Guide to COMPUTER CABLES AND ADAPTERS is available in Picky Guide, one of the fastest growing online magazines giving free consumer advice and product information.

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

How To Find Computer Coupons and Discounts On-line

2007-10-17T04:37:00.000-04:00

The Internet is the Best Place to Buy a New Computer

Why the Internet is the best place to buy a new computer: On the Internet you can streamline your research using recognized websites for reviews. Also, you can find many computer sales and coupons. It is easy to search for such computer coupons and discounts by brand, price and style; i.e.: laptop, desktop. Read on for more details. . .

The Internet is a great place to buy a new computer

1. On the Internet you can streamline your research. You can easily find quality reviews on recognized websites such as PCmag.com and PCworld.com, where you can also find expert advice. I would not recommend any consumer review because they may be brand biased.

2. On-line you can find many computer coupons that can save you hundreds of dollars. Many companies have weekly/monthly coupons that you may redeem to great savings. Sometimes you will even find stackable coupons to save you even more money. Stackable coupons simply mean that you can use more than one on a single purchase. The biggest known company for computer coupons and discounts is Dell. But many other brands also use coupons everyday.

3. You can find the best savings with computer sales and discounts on-line. I would never buy a computer in a store unless you find a deeply discounted one. 99% of the time you will get a better deal delivered to your doorstep from the Internet.

All you need to do is go to your favorite search-engine and search for computer coupons, sales, etc. You could even search for the brand you are interested in if you have a preference. For example: Dell coupon codes, Apple computers on sale, or even computer accessories like discounted hp printers, if that is what you are looking for.

You Will Find great quality and great prices on computers on our Dell Coupons and Computer Specials-Sales-Coupons pages.

Broken Computer? Should You Fix It Or Fling It?

2007-09-23T23:13:00.000-04:00

Okay, so your computer has stopped working for whatever reason. What is the cause? is it the hard drive, the processor, are adware, or the problem? Maybe a Trojan, a virus? Has a chip on the RAM blown or the CPU overloaded?

Should you hire a computer repair service, or should you buy yourself a new computer?

It can be a very difficult decision, one you will base upon your finances and the age of your computer.

If your computer is more than a few years old it may not be cost effective to repair it. For example, if the motherboard blows then unless you can find one of a similar age on ebay you will have to replace the processor, heat sink and memory as well because your originals are not likely to work in your new motherboard.

The cost factor should also be taken into account when thinking about computer repair. Buying a new computer could cost you up to ten times more than repairing your existing computer.

There is also the environmental impact of buying a new computer – what do you do with the old one? Do you throw it out to go rot in a landfill and pollute the environment or do you pay to have it properly disposed of? Or do you do what so many of us do and shove it in the back of the attic or garage and forget about it until it becomes an antique.

The final consideration is your technical skill. Whilst computers have become easier for the novice to use and work with, they are still technical concerns. Many of us have enough trouble programming the VCR let alone changing the processor in a computer.

You need to also realise that a computer is, after all, a delicate piece of equipment and is still sensitive to dust and static – in fact you can seriously damage your computer if you do not take the appropriate precautions. I have many customers who have tried to fix their own computer and inadvertently blown their processor or memory because they failed to take the proper anti-static precautions.

You should never touch the connectors or chips on any computer card. Ideally you should always store memory and computer cards in proper anti-static bags to avoid this damage. Again, I get people coming to me with some memory they bought out of a bucket at a computer fair or boot sale wondering why it doesn’t work.

It really is worth taking the time to hire a professional computer repair service to fix your computer, not only can they probably do the job quicker than you could, but they will do it properly and without any risk of damaging your computer.

Hiring a professional computer repair service will ensure your computer is fixed quickly, easily and efficiently – with the least cost to you. Not only that, but you can get advice from a professional about how to keep your computer running efficiently and free from viruses, adware and Trojans.

Tony Roberts has worked extensively for the last 15 years for several Blue Chip companies providing technical support and training to on-site support staff, enabling them to support a variety of software/hardware platforms. He now focuses his efforts in assisting small businesses and home users more information can be found at "Computer Repair the easy way"
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tony_Roberts

Tips For Getting The Right Computer Accessories

2007-09-05T01:41:00.000-04:00

There are many desktop computer accessories that you need in order to hear, see, and do all of the things that computers are now designed to do. You may get most of these items with your computer, but if you don’t, you need to know what to get and where to get it. You also have to make sure you know what you are buying is compatible with the computer you have.

When you buy a new computer, make sure that you ask what desktop computer accessories will come with your new toy. At the very least, you should get speakers and a printer with it, and if you want to add extras, they may charge you for it. For the most part, however, they want to make a sale, and may throw things in just to get you to buy from them, though this is not always the case. Make sure they tell you all about the desktop computer accessories that they are sending to you, and make sure you ask if they are the most up to date ones you can get.

If you find that you need to buy some desktop computer accessories on your own, you can go through the manufacturer of your computer to make sure the ones you are buying will be compatible. This may also allow you to get a better price than by going through the retail stores. You can also find desktop computer accessories by looking online, but make sure you know what you are looking at as your browse. Some manufacturers make accessories that will only go with their own product lines while other try to make universal items that will go with any computer.

Remember to be careful when you install your desktop computer accessories. Most of them come with software that you need to install in order for the item to work with your computer and it’s software. When you plug something new into your computer, the computer should find and install any software it needs. If it does not, you may have a problem on your hands, and you may have to call the manufacturer of the desktop computer accessories you purchased to ask them for help. If they cannot help you, you may have to call your computer maker’s technical help line.

Steve Wickenden runs his own mail order business as well as running several shopping based websites. His particular speciality is electronics and computers. Visit his website which is full of Computer Equipment resources. http://www.discount-computer-equipment.com/Computer-Accessories.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Wickenden

Should I Buy a Laptop or a Desktop?

2007-08-21T21:36:00.000-04:00

Should I buy a cheap laptop or a cheap desktop?

You may be asking yourself that question over and over while shopping for a new computer. This guide will offer you the pros and cons of owning a laptop versus a desktop pc.

Processing speed

Comparing processing speeds, laptops usually lag behind their desktop counterparts. With the rapid advance in microchip technology, the gap between them will become smaller.

Wireless

Most laptops especially those with Intel mobile chips come with wireless capability out of the box. This means you can get online from any location at home easily without ugly wires if you have a wireless network setup at home. Desktop pcs do not typically provide this capability out of the box although that may change in the near future.

Memory

Memory chip tends to be more expensive in Laptop than desktop pcs. If you buy a laptop with less than 512MB ram, be prepare to pay more for memory upgrades than you have to with a desktop pc.

Graphics Display

Because of the size of a laptop, most business or entry level laptop use integrated graphics with limited ram. This means most laptops even some expensive ones cannot run graphics intensive applications or 3d games as well as a desktop pc. With a desktop pc, you can buy a dedicated graphics card just to serve a graphics intensive application.

Portability

Portability is why everyone wants a laptop these days. Because of their size and weight, it is easier to carry a laptop around as opposed to a desktop pc.

Screen Display

Everyone buy laptop for their portability so laptops usually do not come with screens as big as their desktop counterparts. The screen technology used is usually not as good as those used by desktop pc. Furthermore with a desktop pc, you can always upgrade to a bigger and better screen whereas for laptop you are stuck with the same screen display for the whole lifespan of the laptop.

Upgradeability

Laptops do not offer many upgrade options. You can only upgrade memory and hard disk. With a desktop you can upgrade almost anything and only limited by the motherboard. This means a cheap desktop pc offers a longer lifespan than a laptop.

So whether you should buy a cheap laptop or a cheap desktop, ask yourself what are your needs? If you want to be able to use a computer wherever you go, then you are looking at a laptop to fulfill your needs. However if you do not require the portability of a laptop, play a lot of 3D games, graphic intensive applications, if you care about upgradeability to prolong the lifespan of your investment, then desktop pc is a smarter choice for you.

Charles Wee runs a free hosting service at BloggerHaven. He also owns and runs a website at CheapLaptopGuide which provides free guidance for buying of cheap laptops and notebooks
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charles_Wee

Simple Steps You Can Do To Keep Your Computer Running Fast

2007-08-18T03:26:00.000-04:00

And Avoid Problems

Software Maintenance:
Just like your car your computer needs some basic maintenance. The most common problems can usually be traced to the software that is on your hard drive.

We all want to keep our Computer System running quickly and at peek performance. Here are a few easy tips that will insure that your Computer continues to function properly. First and most important is that a up to date Anti Virus software, such as Symantec's Norton Anti Virus, is installed on your Computer. Once a week the Anti Virus software should scan the entire system and make sure that no Viruses have been installed. You will also want to make sure that your Anti Virus software has the latest update. The second most important program to have installed is an Anti Spyware software. This software should also check the entire system once a week. If there has been a lot of internet activity you may want to check the system after browsing the internet. The next step to making sure that your system operates correctly is to Check for Errors on your hard drive. Simply right click your hard drive icon. Click properties, Click Tools then check for errors. You may have to shut down and restart for this application to complete.

Things to remember: Always check to make sure that your Anti Virus Icon is on the task bar and is working. As soon as you believe that your software has been compromised follow the steps listed above. If they do not solve the problem then a professional should be called. Usually if the problem is caught within a few days it can be fixed without having to loose all of your data and programs.

Hardware Maintenance:
A majority of Hardware problems are caused by dust. Your computer case is designed to pull air from the front of the case over the motherboard and out through a fan in the rear of the case and rear of the power supply. Every three months the side of the computer case should be removed and the hardware should be cleaned of dust. The easiest method of dusting is by using a can of compressed air. The air should be sprayed on the computers heatsinc and fan, case fans, power supply fan and any other fans. You may want to check you video card as they typically have fans and are sometimes hard to see. By removing dust you will insure that heat generated from they computer is properly vented. Fan failure is typically the main cause of computer noise and power supply failure.

The next cause of hardware problems is loose connections. Once a year the inside of the computer should be inspected. All cables to the hard drives, floppy drive and Optical drive should be inspected. Any add on card such as a video, sound card, modem should be checked to make sure that it is properly seated on the motherboard. It is also a good idea to make sure that the ram is making a good connection on the motherboard.

Final thought:
If you believe there is a problem with your computer. Backup what you can and try to fix the problem immediately or call someone who can. Most problems will not just go away they will usually get worse.

About the Author:Evan Freedman is an author for CSSZafco.com, distributor of computers and accessories. Evan has been diagnosing and fixing computer for over 25 years. Please visit the site to view a huge assortment of Computer Technology.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Evan_Freedman

Discount Dell Laptops

2007-08-08T15:41:00.000-04:00

There are many ways to save on a Dell Computer, from special sales, coupons, stackable coupons, price cuts, and the Dell Outlet.

Recent additions to Dell’s computer services division include low-cost used Dell laptop computers. These machines are generally sufficient for the Internet, e-mail, and word processing. One advantage is that, unlike other used Dell computers purchased from a friend or local computer shop, each computer stocked has received a complete inspection by certified computer technicians and has been restored and tested to like-new condition.

Dell guarantees that each used Dell GX110 computer purchased directly from them will be in perfect working condition. Dell supports this guarantee statement by providing each used Dell GX110 computer along with a 30-day replacement warranty. Also, a keyboard, mouse, and power cord are included with each purchase.

Each of these computer systems are formatted but are without an operating system but a preinstalled licensed copy of any Windows operating system is available at an additional cost. Dell also provides these in wholesale lots.

Most of these discount computers contain Pentium III - 866 MHz, 10GB+ hard drive, 128MB memory, integrated video, sound, LAN along with a keyboard, mouse, power cord.

The Dell Computer Corporation has also recently announced up to 10 percent price cuts on selected configurations of its Latitude notebook. The Latitude notebooks provide manageability, reliability, and performance for business and institutional customers in networked environments.

Dell also provides excellent coupon codes that can help to save even more money on their already low priced computers, printers, monitors and accessories. In addition to Dell’s online coupon codes, they occasionally provide stackable coupons that allow the customers to use more than one coupon at a time. Stackable Dell coupons are marked to avoid confusion. Be sure to read the price points of the Dell coupons a number of times so as to qualify for an even greater discount if using the most appropriate coupon. Please study the rules and restrictions to check if they can be bought for the required purpose.

You can Save big at Dell Outlet: Refurbished Dell computers sold directly by Dell are excellent systems with good warranties. However, their prices tend to run a bit on the high side. Click on the button “REFURBISHED SYSTEMS” on their navigation bar to go to the Dell Outlet.

Discount Laptops provides detailed information about discount laptops, discount laptop batteries, and more. Discount Laptops is affiliated with Live Spy Cam.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Sturo

Student Discount On Laptops

2007-08-04T08:11:00.000-04:00

Currently, laptops and notebook computers are being used to a great extent in educational institutes. With a laptop or notebook computer, students can connect to the network in the college and work on personal computers. Many manufacturers provide student computer discount offers. Though some of these offers are available only through official channels from the school, while others are available from the retailer on producing proof of enrolment in an educational institution. Some of the manufacturers that have student discount programs include Dell, Hewlett Packard, and Apple laptops.

It is important to check the institutions for restrictions, as all institutions are not accepted into these student discount programs, In most of the cases, only institutions of higher education, or universities, offer these student discounts.

Dell’s student discount program is aimed only at institutions of higher education. On providing proof that they belong to one of the eligible institutions, a Dell laptop may be purchased.

College students can check hp.com to view all the available HP student discounts that are available for higher education. HP also offers similar discounts to both students and faculty.

Meanwhile, Apple computers has a specific store for education, which offers desktop and notebook computers at special prices for education. Apple computers offers discounts for both college/university students, as well as for students in K-12 schools.

A student discount can be used if the customer is a student, teacher, a school administrator, or a faculty member. The discount can also be used if purchasing for an accredited school, college, or a hospital directly affiliated with an educational institution.

Discount Laptops provides detailed information about discount laptops, discount laptop batteries, and more. Discount Laptops is affiliated with Live Spy Cam.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Sturo

Buy a Refurbished Dell Laptop For Quality and Savings

2007-07-24T20:56:00.000-04:00

If you are looking for a Dell here are all the money saving coupons - you can save alot of money when you use Dell Coupons. This page is updated at least twice per week.

Dell offers a full line of refurbished laptops on their website, Dell Outlet. Look for “Outlet Refurbished Laptops.” There you will find a full range of popular models that run just as reliably as a new machine – for hundreds of dollars less than you would pay for new versions. This is because Dell refurbished laptops are inspected for “good-as-new” quality. The only differences are the red label on the bottom of the unit and a lower price.

Dell’s most popular refurbished laptops are Latitude and Inspiron. The Latitude series of “notebook” computers is no longer manufactured, but is still a great buy for someone looking for an up-to-date machine. Latitude is an apt name for these models: they afford you great leeway in updating, expanding, or otherwise changing the internal workings of the computer. With its black chassis and clean lines, it is a rather “normal” looking computer. It is a middleweight unit, but sized to fit any standard laptop case, along with AC/DC adaptor, mouse, floppy and zip disks, and other accessories. The Dell Latitude C600, CPX, and L400 are the three most popular models in the line.

The Inspiron series of notebook computers is still manufactured today, with some modifications. Slightly older versions are still a great way to meet all your computer needs. Inspirons are not quite as expandable as Latitudes, but, with their jazzy black-and-silver chassis, have a distinctive look. Inspiron laptops are also a bit more affordable than Latitudes. Furthermore, Inspiron ranks among the highest performing laptops available, with famously long battery life The Dell Inspiron 1100 and 1150 are the two most common models in the line of refurbished laptops at Dell.

If you are looking to get the lowest price on a Dell laptop, look for one that uses a Celeron processor instead of an Intel. Celeron is less expensive, and also uses less battery juice, than Intel.

Save big at Dell Outlet

Refurbished Laptops Info provides detailed information on quality, cheap refurbished laptops by manufacturers like Dell, IBM, Toshiba, and HP, as well as refurbished laptop batteries and related products. Refurbished Laptops Info is the sister site of Rack Mount Computers Web.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Max_Bellamy

Laptop Computers-You Can Find The Perfect Fit!

2007-07-20T03:10:00.000-04:00

The Features And Functions Of The Laptop Computer

You should look at several differant brands and styles of laptop computers to see which of their features and functions match your lifestyle and needs. There are a plethora of laptop computers on the market today, so if you are in the market for one, you should take the time to do some pre-purchasing research. By doing such research on laptop computers, you will be guaranteed to make a wise decision.

The Best Computer And Electronics Deals Anywhere, ONLY at TigerDirect!

Are Laptops Reasonably Priced?

The first thing that you need to consider is price. A laptop (or notebook) computer can cost about twice as much as a desktop computer of the same capabilities and features. There are basic computers, and then there are those full of extras, such as memory, graphic capabilities, etc. You will find a wide range of prices for laptops, so go online or to different computer stores to cost compare.

Features To Look For:

Wireless Internet Connections

Laptop computers are a great tool for people who need computers, but are always on the go. Wi-Fi, or wireless internet connections, are very important to such people. Many laptop computers come already equipped with Wi-Fi capabilities, which means you can use your laptop in special areas (library, coffee shop, book store) that offer Wi-Fi access. Other laptop computers have a unique space for you to insert a Wi-Fi card that you can purchase at most computer or cellular phone stores.

Speed And Memory

Some laptop computers are actually slower than their desktop counterparts. In general, the type of internet connection and memory space you have on your laptop is what will determine your speed. If a fast speed concerns you, you should use a wireless connection and purchase extra memory for your hard drive. Lower priced laptops usually come with a 20 to 40 GB hard drive, but you can purchase a laptop with an 80. You should also look for something with greater than 128 MB of memory so that you can run all of the current software and applications.

Portability

Most people who use laptop computers need them for their portability, ability to be carried from place to place. Laptop computers may weigh a lot, over eight pounds, so it is recommended to go to different stores to lift the different types, styles, and models from different manufacturers.

By Margarette Tustle. Learn more information about laptops and laptop computers from dnalaptop.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Margarette_Tustle

Is Your PC freezing Up?

2007-06-30T04:30:00.000-04:00

What is more frustrating to the user of a personal computer than when it “freezes.”

Computer freeze usually means the computer suddenly ceases to operate. In severe cases of computer freeze, nothing happens at all. The keyboard and mouse become inoperative, and whatever image is on the screen remains there. The computer is frozen.

New computer users have a tendency to want to give the monitor a few sharp smacks when this happens. They view the problem as a sort of log jam, and feel a good smack will break it up and get things rolling again. Actually, they are not completely wrong although there method of correction is flawed. In many cases, the cause of the freeze is a log jam. To put it another way, it is an overload of the processing system. This is caused by having too many operations running at the same time. The processing unit has a limited amount of memory capacity.

The type of memory known as ROM memory has a much smaller capacity than the massive amount of storage in the hard drive. Since the processing unit is performing programmed instructions at such a fast rate, the fact that multiple programs are running at the same time is often unnoticed. The processor is actually skipping from program to program. It performs some instructions from one, and then moves on to the next. The user may be actually working on only one program and is unaware that others are actually being executed at the same time.

When the load becomes too much, the processor will be waiting for an instruction, and that instruction will never come. In some cases, the processor may go into a loop following a set of instructions that take it in a circle with no exit. When either of these things happens, the result is a computer freeze. The unit is not actually frozen. It is waiting for an instruction to move on, and that instruction is not being received.

Hitting the monitor is not going to help. It is also not going to help to frantically push buttons. Each keyboard stroke is sending another set of instructions to the processing unit. Since the processing unit is already overloaded, or not processing, sending more instructions will not help.

Often it just makes the problem worse. The only keys that should be pressed are control, alt, and delete at the same time. This will bring up a screen that allows you to attempt to shut down some unneeded programs. This might result in the “unfreezing” of your computer. More than likely the unit will need to be shut done and rebooted to clear the processor.

The Best Computer And Electronics Deals Anywhere, ONLY at TigerDirect!

Driz Memok is with ComputerRepairServiceBusinesses.com - providing information on computer repairs.

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

Microsoft Vista

2007-06-16T10:17:00.000-04:00

The Five Most Important Features
By Marko Hammond

So many people are getting all worked up and excited over the new Windows Vista. As you would expect, most users want to know what is new with Vista and what makes it better to use than the previous editions. Is it easier to use? Is there better safety and security features? Are technical and management aspects be given fair attention? It is not possible to completely detail all of Vista’s new and improved features but, here are the most notable features:

Windows Shell

The appearance of the operating system is the first marketing strategy to use on non-technical individuals. Many home users understandably get attracted with basic aesthetic features and easy to use functions. In operating systems, the appearance and ease of use can best be associated with the shell which presents the user interface. With Windows, their shell is Explorer. In Windows Vista, the shell is associated with Aero.

The translucent glass look of Aero alone is an image of elegance and lends an added illusion of depth. Users also have the choice to use the appearance of previous Windows versions. Aside from a change in look, Vista also addresses aspects in organization, filtering and storing. The “Stacks” function for example will allow users to filter files or group files according to user criteria.

Multimedia Applications

Movie, photo and music enthusiasts and experts will be happy to know that Vista has added features for them too. The Windows Movie Maker for example will allow editing of DVR-MS videos. The new Windows DVD Maker on the other hand will allow DVD creation and burning. For photo enthusiasts, the Windows Photo Gallery will still allow basic editing plus metadata additions to photos. Windows Paint also now has unlimited undo functions.

Windows Defender

On the aspect of security, Vista now includes Windows Defender which can be used against spyware. Aside from the usual function of scanning for spyware, Windows Defender can also perform real time monitoring for changes in Windows that have been caused by spyware. With Windows Defender, users can now easily keep in touch with Microsoft to inquire about suitable applications and spyware.

Wireless Networking

Wireless networking is not a very new concept. There are however, some improvements in Vista. With Vista, wireless connections do not mimic wired connections. The network stack now holds the support for wireless networks. New features can then be implemented. These include easily finding and identifying open and closed networks.

Speech Recognition

With this feature, users can use voice commands on their computer unit. The difference between Vista voice recognition and other versions is that voice recognition in Vista boasts full integration. Certain applications therefore can be manipulated by dictation. A mousegrid may be used for applications that require mouse functions. A user simply needs to dictate a series of numbers to zero in on the particular area that has to be clicked. This feature is easy to use even without the tutorial provided. Voice recognition is fairly high and exact.

Get free tips and news on Microsoft Windows Vista at http://www.Vista-Windows.info

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

Virus And Spyware

2007-06-04T02:12:00.000-04:00

The Main Reason Our Computers Get Slower and Slower - Virus and spyware

Want to make your computer run like new again?
Adware/Spyware Remover - Free Scan!

Most of us have anti-virus programs, but the spyware and ad ware do not get removed by the anti-virus software’s. To remove the spyware you need another kind of software.

Spybot and adawares se personal are two such software’s. Ad aware se personal is one of the best spyware and adware removing software. Also it is free. You just need to go to it’s website and download it. Once it get’s installed and updated, scan your computer with it. After the scan you will get the options to delete the spy stuff from your computer. After this is done, you will see a good increase in your computers speed.

Spyware is a real threat, do you want a browser cookie to do spying in your computer. This is what spyware dose, it tells the spy servers about your Internet usage and all your private data is made public. But you can remove spywares, there are a lot of methods to remove them. We have already discussed about the deletion of the browser cookies. Also a lot of spywares attacks registry and ad aware se personal is good for this. There are a lot of such things, spyware, adware, keylogers etc. and removing these is very important.

For the virus stuff I recommend the Norton antivirus. At pack.google.com a 6 months free subscription of Norton is available. This version is pretty good. Spyware Doctor Starter Edition is also available there, and all this is absolutely free. The combination of Norton and Spyware Doctor is good, and I strongly recommend it for a safer and faster computer experience.

You really should always have a good anti-virus and anti-spyware running on your computer and do deep/full scans often! A1-Computers--

http://makeyourcomputerfaster.blogspot.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Uttoran_Sen

Space Effiecient 17" Monitors Are Now The Best Choice

2007-05-21T16:24:00.000-04:00

Computer monitors have come along way in the past five years. Now even the larger ones are like space-savers compared to just a few years ago--

I've been using 17" computer monitors for years now. I think they're the perfect combination of affordability and functionality. 17" is large enough to provide a large graphical interface, big enough for playing games or movies, but still falling in a reasonable price range. The price between smaller monitors, such as 15" monitors, and 17" monitors is usually not very much, yet I've often found that it shoots up a lot going from 17" monitors to 19" or larger ones.

17" monitors are also good for saving space, especially if you are using the older CRT type technology. CRT monitors of any size are pretty darn big, and once you get into the 19" and beyond level you really need a lot of desk space to fit them. Personally, the extra two inches of monitor size in a 19" monitor just isn't worth the overall lack of room on my desk and the extra hassle in moving it around.

Of course, desk space is less of a problem with LCD monitors. 17" LCD monitors are extremely space effiecient, as well as 19" ones. I've noticed that LCD monitor screens tend to look bigger as well. I realize it's a kind of optical illusion and they aren't really bigger, but the 17" inches in an LCD seems to go a long way. The 17" inches is measured across the diagonal surface of the monitor, so any 17" monitors has the same screen size as any other, but LCD's seem to use it more effectively. Since the price on 19" LCDs is still pretty high, and the 17" monitors have become almost in line with their CRT counterparts, I think 17" LCDs are the way to go.

I don't think I'm the only one that feels this way either. I've noticed that 17" monitors seem to be a sort of standard for a lot of businesses. For a long time it was 15", but I really don't see as many 15" inch monitors these days. It seems like everyone is using a 17" monitor. Affordable and yet still fairly big, it's the right combination of luxury and practicality.

If you have the money to spend, and plenty of desk space, you may want to consider an even larger monitor. Of course, if you're not really using any graphical programs, don't play computer games, or ever watch movies on your computer, you have to ask yourself; do I really need it? 17" monitors are more than big enough.

Muna wa Wanjiru has been researching and reporting on Internet Marketing for years. For more information on 17" Monitors, visit his site at

This article is free for republishingSource: http://www.articlealley.com/article_160720_10.html

Laptop Computer Stands Can Add Comfort and Convenience

2007-05-14T15:50:00.000-04:00

Working on a laptop is not quite as comfortable for most as working on a desktop computer. The truth is that most people choose a laptop for convenience not for comfort. Because of this we see many more laptop stands hitting the market and they offer more comfort and convenience when using your laptop.

Laptop stands are more convenient than desks because they are more portable. You can easily move your laptop stand and your laptop from room to room throughout your house or in your yard as needed. Even better, laptop stands fold for easy storage when not in use. This makes them an excellent choice for those with limited space such as a dorm room or apartment.
Laptop stands can be used with a wide variety of chairs. You can use them at ease from your rocking chair, lounge chair, or the comfort of your sofa. Many stands have the capability of swiveling.

People find most laptop desks to be relatively ergonomic and easy to use. This makes your work or play much more comfortable. Higher end laptop stands also have room for plugging in peripherals, cell phones, hubs, and routers in addition to holding your laptop.

You will find laptop stands in many different styles and designs that can suit the décor of your room if you decide not to tuck it away when not in use.

Best of all laptop stands, even the high-end variety, are surprisingly affordable. Because laptop stands are so adaptable you can use them in almost any area of your home. Because the height of the laptop stands is adjustable you can even catch streaming news and video of your favorite television shows, movies, or news programs while on your treadmill.

How To Obtain A Student Discount On A Laptop

2007-04-26T00:08:00.000-04:00

Laptop and notebook computers are used alot in educational institutions. With a laptop or notebook computer, students can connect to the network in the college and work on personal computers. Many manufacturers provide student computer discount offers. Though some of these offers are available only through official channels from the school, while others are available from the retailer on producing proof of enrolment in an educational institution. Some of the manufacturers that have student discount programs include Dell, Hewlett Packard, and Apple laptops.

It is important to check the institutions for restrictions, as all institutions are not accepted into these student discount programs, In most of the cases, only institutions of higher education, or universities, offer these student discounts.

Dell’s student discount program is aimed only at institutions of higher education. On providing proof that they belong to one of the eligible institutions, a Dell laptop may be purchased.

College students can check hp.com to view all the available HP student discounts that are available for higher education. HP also offers similar discounts to both students and faculty.

Meanwhile, Apple computers has a specific store for education, which offers desktop and notebook computers at special prices for education. Apple computers offers discounts for both college/university students, as well as for students in K-12 schools.

A student discount can be used if the customer is a student, teacher, a school administrator, or a faculty member. The discount can also be used if purchasing for an accredited school, college, or a hospital directly affiliated with an educational institution.

Apple Store for Education. College Students save on MacBooks and more.

Discount Laptops provides detailed information about discount laptops, discount laptop batteries, and more. Discount Laptops is affiliated with Live Spy Cam.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Sturo

How To Find Quality Used inexpensive Computers

2007-04-21T23:26:00.000-04:00

The world really works in weird ways in the present day. For instance, some of the most significant high-tech devices in the modern world like computers are cheap and easily replaced. In a few months, a thousand dollar computer today can go for 400 or 500 dollars. You can find used cheap computers everywhere if you've gone to any of the used computer warehouses in your local area.

You should know that used computers for sale may not be the same quality. You are taking a great risk if you buy a used refurbished computer. This is because some who work to refurbish computers do it as economically as possible. They can save money at every turn if they purchase the cheapest components.

There are times when used computers turn out all right. The refurbished computer you purchased may work perfectly for years. Or, you may be spending several hundred more on nothing when you try to save a few hundred dollars.

It would be wise to ask for a guarantee before you purchase used cheap computers. However, that kind of deal can be hard to come by because the people that refurbish used computers usually do not want to provide warranties. This is because they have no control over how long the used computers last.

The best buy computers are the ones that are slightly outdated and not the used ones. You can get a great deal if you're willing to spend a little bit more money on a computer that is a generation behind. These computers work like new, even if they can be slightly more expensive than used cheap computers. They use outdated parts that have never been used before on these computers.

Unlike the used cheap computers, many of these computers will still run fast and last for a long time. You can save a lot of money this way if you are not driven to always buy the biggest, best, and newest unit in the market. You should stay away from used cheap computers, unless you can get them for almost nothing.

Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Used Cheap Computers. Visit our site for more helpful information about Used Cheap Computers and other similar topics.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Morgan_Hamilton

Should I Buy A Refurbished Laptop? A Used Laptop? Or A Cheap Laptop?

2007-04-11T23:15:00.000-04:00

Have you been searching the web for very long looking for a laptop? Have you been trying to figure out what the differance is between the refurbished, used, and cheap laptops?

Well, let's begin by examining each phrase followed with a short definition:

Refurbished Laptops

Refurbished laptops are PCs that have been bought new by a consumer and has been used between 1 day and 3 months(depending on the store). The customer returns the laptop to the store for any number of reasons. At this time the store cannot sell it "as new". It must be returned to the original manufacturer for refurbishing- which means, "to make bright, or fresh again, renovate". Most stores offer a 30 day money back guarantee and within that time period is when most of the laptops are returned for a refund and sent back to the manufacturer. Thus refurbished laptops are born. Refurbished laptops are not new, but the closest thing to it because most are within a couple of months old. Refurbished laptops will have better processing speeds, more memory, newer Windows OS and the most up to date technology.

Used Laptops

Used laptops are generally a little older, but are in perfectly working condition. Used laptops are perfect for people wanting to use a mobile computer for only a couple of applications, but still needs the mobility of a laptop. You can use these to run software programs in areas outside of an office where a desktop is not practical. Used laptops will have lower processor speeds, older Windows such as 98 and 2000, less memory space, but will still operate as a new one because they have been sent to a qualified computer technician to be reconditioned to it's original specifications. Used laptops are perfect for students doing homework, a professional that only needs to operate a few programs, or for someone who just wants to access the internet without the bulk of a desktop.

Cheap Laptops

Cheap laptops is a laptop that has minimal programs, it may have lower memory and an older OS programs. Cheap laptops are only cheap in price and not in quality. Many people are looking for this kind of laptop and are seeking a basic mobile PC to run only a couple of applications, or software programs. Cheap laptops are also used by those who only wish to surf the net, access e-mail, or any number of functions that don't require massive amounts of memory, or lighting speed processors. Cheap refurbished laptops work as new they are just a couple of years older than a refurbished laptop. If a student only needs to run one software program, or if an office worker just needs to create spreadsheets outside of the office cheap laptops are perfect. These are the choice of many people because they are basic and "cheap".

Let's recap:

Refurbished Laptops- newer, faster, able to operate more applications, latest technology
Used Laptops- a little older, basic Windows OS, slower processor speeds, less memory
Cheap Laptops- older, mainly for schoolwork or operating a few applications, lower memory

Go ahead and save the money and buy a used, or refurbished laptop, but be careful who it is bought from. Make sure you see the words "Factory Reconditioned" because a highly skilled technician will do the better job.
The staff at Online Crazy Deals wants customers to be informed about the products they are purchasing. To learn about the different types of laptops visit-http://www.onlinecrazydeals.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Johnson

Refurbished Dell Laptops Review

2007-03-31T14:07:00.000-04:00

Dell has a full line of refurbished laptops on their website, Dell.com. Once you are on their website look for “Outlet Refurbished Laptops.” There you will find a full range of well-liked models that run just as reliably as a new machine – for hundreds of dollars less than you would pay for new versions. This is because Dell refurbished laptops are inspected for “good-as-new” quality. The only differences are the red label on the bottom of the unit and a lower price.

Dell’s most popular refurbished laptops are Latitude and Inspiron. The Latitude series of “notebook” computers is no longer manufactured, but is still a great buy for someone looking for an up-to-date machine. Latitude is an apt name for these models: they afford you great freedom in updating, expanding, or otherwise changing the internal workings of the computer. With its black chassis and clean lines, it is a rather “normal” looking computer. It is a middleweight unit, but sized to fit any standard laptop case, along with AC/DC adaptor, mouse, floppy and zip disks, and other accessories. The Dell Latitude C600, CPX, and L400 are the three most popular models in the line.

Up to $300 off any refurbished Latitude™, Inspiron™
or XPS™ notebook computer!

The Inspiron series of notebook computers is still manufactured today, with some modifications. Somewhat older versions are still a great way to meet all your computer needs. Inspirons are not quite as expandable as Latitudes, but, with their jazzy black-and-silver chassis, have a distinctive look. Inspiron laptops are also a bit more inexpensive than Latitudes. Inspiron ranks among the highest performing laptops available, with notably long battery life. The Dell Inspiron 1100 and 1150 are the two most common models in the line of refurbished laptops at Dell.

If you are looking to get the lowest price on a Dell laptop, look for one that uses a Celeron processor instead of an Intel. Celeron is less expensive, and also uses less battery juice, than Intel.
Refurbished Laptops Info provides detailed information on quality, cheap refurbished laptops by manufacturers like Dell, IBM, Toshiba, and HP, as well as refurbished laptop batteries and related products. Refurbished Laptops Info is the sister site of Rack Mount Computers Web.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Max_Bellamy

History of Mobile Computing

2007-03-31T13:45:00.000-04:00

Mobile computing has been around a short time; since the 1990s. Since laptops have become mainstream, countless devices have been developed for mobile computing that have taken over the wireless business. This new type of communication is a very powerful tool for both businesses and personal use. Mobile computing is defined as the ability to use technology that is not physically connected to any static network. This actually used to mean radio transmitters that operated on a stable base, usually with the help of large antennas. 2 way radios used by police officers were also considered mobile technology but now, it means people can connect wirelessly to the internet or to a private network almost anywhere. As long as a person has one of the devices capable of wirelessly accessing the internet, they are participating in mobile computing. Chances are, you have done it with a laptop computer or a personal digital assistant or PDA.

Currently, most laptops and personal digital assistants all have wireless cards or Bluetooth interfaces built into them for convenient mobile internet access. Mobile solutions are right under everyone’s nose these days, and connectivity has never been easier. Other common tools for mobile computing include devices like global positioning systems and smart phones like the Cingular Blackberry. Tons of PDA software development has been going on in the past five years simply because companies have been trying hard to make PDA technology more available to the general public. These days, software companies almost make more software for PDAs and smart phones than for actual desktops.

Pocket PCs are another way to expediently access the internet on the fly. Everyone has probably heard of the Palm Pilot. While they were the pioneers of the pocket pc, many other companies such as Dell, HP, and Toshiba have all delved into the market. Pocket PC software has also become much easier to use. Most Palms use the familiar Windows interface, allowing the general public to access the internet via the usual Internet Explorer or other ISPs. Also, people can easily download useful software, including games, Media editing tools, organization tools, and even electronic books.

Mobile computing has evolved from two-way radios that use large antennas to communicate simple messages to three inch personal computers that can do almost everything a regular computer does. People can’t go to their local Starbucks and not see a laptop linked up to a hotspot these days, and mobile computing is still in its baby phase.

Natalie Aranda writes about computers. The fascinating world of mobile computing has only been around since the 1990s. Since then, devices that have been developed for mobile computing have taken over the wireless industry. Mobile solutions are right under everyone’s nose these days, and connectivity has never been easier. Other common tools for mobile computing include devices like global positioning systems and smart phones like the Cingular Blackberry.

Tips For Buying A Toshiba Laptop

2007-03-23T01:19:00.000-04:00

You will find many Toshiba laptop reviews on the internet today, however, none of them tackle the all encompassing question of how exactly to choose the right Toshiba Laptop for you? The problem with any Toshiba laptop review is that it is looking at a particular Toshiba laptop such as the Toshiba satellite out of context of the rest of the models. As such, many Toshiba laptops reviews have looked at a laptop in it’s own merits without ever having the opportunity to try other models in the range which may be better.

A laptop is a personal purchase. People have different needs, and what is good for someone may not be the best choice for another. I have seen in more than one Toshiba laptop review mentioning that one laptop is the ‘best’ of the range/series/brand. Such claims are false and cannot ever be substantiated. Why you ask? Because a few years ago I bought a three thousand dollar laptop with all the bells and whistles, but after two months I realized it wasn’t what I wanted. It was way to big for what I needed, and the battery life was way too short, and I just did not want to be bothered using it for its intended purpose, so I bought a new one for half the price. It was so much better, not because of its specs on paper, and not because of what some reviewer had wrote about it, but because it was what I needed. So instead of listening to what is said in a Toshiba Laptop review, listen to yourself for once!

As most people know, Toshiba has been making quality notebooks/laptops for many years and this will continue, but rest assured that if you are buying one now, it will last you quite a few years. Technology is not moving as fast as you think it is. By all means read some Toshiba Laptop reviews, you should be educated, but don’t rely entirely on what someone else says. When choosing one model in opposition to another just keep in mind what you plan to use it for. Toshiba Laptop Reviews can only tell you so much, more important is your needs, your intuition and your idea of quality (which Toshiba is renowned for).

Jane has written for many tech blogs for the last 5 years, writing about computers, technology and reviewing a range of IT and tech products. She has a love of computers and runs a blog on laptop reviews: Laptop Buyer
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jane_MacKenzie

Laptop Shutting Down By Itself with Vista?

2007-03-15T00:52:00.000-04:00

Lately, many people have been complaining that there computer has been shutting down on it’s own. Now I don’t know if it has to do with Vista but I thought it could be related since Vista takes up a large amount of memory. A laptop that overheats will shut itself off to prevent damage and injury of the user. Another culprit of this problem may also be with your hardware but that’s another story and requires a deeper analysis of your laptop.

The Symptoms of Your Computer

If you notice that your laptop is shutting off on its own, you might have to think about the vents and cooling components of your computer. Also, if you use your computer on your lap, it is more likely to overheat because it is harder for vents to work against your legs and pants. On a hard surface, there is more ventilation. When your laptop does shut down is it very warm? This is a sign that overheating is the problem in your situation.

Solving the Problem

It is not 100% certain that overheating is your laptops problem but if it is, your in luck. To fix this problem you can pay someone else or you can do it yourself with a can of compressed air. All you need to do is follow these simple instructions found on, http://www.whatlaptop.co.uk/Forums/ShowPost.aspx?PostID=192552. The following are instructions to clean a laptop vent in 3 simple steps:

1) Unscrew each of the screws on the underside of your laptop. Then remove the cover.

2) Now, remove dust and other debris from the vents, fan, and heatsinks. You can also use a toothpick for harder to reach places. make sure not to puncture anything or damage any of the circuitry during the process. Also, refrain from using your fingers because you will leave oils that attract dirt.

3) Take the can of compressed air and shoot it into the vents. One important tip is to place that toothpick you used earlier to keep the fan from spinning by lodging it in between two of the blades. This will prevent them from being damaged while gusts of air push through.
Now, when you turn on your laptop you should see the difference immediately. If your computer continues to shut down, overheating may not have been a problem. For this you must figure some other failure occurred.

George Christodoulou
If you still have problems with your laptop shutting off with Vista,please visit, http://download-microsoft-vista.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Christodoulou

Giving a Slow Computer New Vigor!

2007-03-09T00:17:00.000-05:00

Nothing is more aggravating then when your computer slows down. To pick the pace back up, you may need to take several differant actions aand have a look at your software.

Ofcourse your computer needs software. It is important to understand that there is a trade off with software. The more it does, the more it demands attention from your CPU. The more of it you upload on to your computer, the more of the demand grows. Most off the shelf computers are pretty weak when it comes to handling the demand. They may have fast CPUs, but it really doesn’t matter if the RAM memory is week.

So lets get started with some basic steps you can take: First, clear out your history on your internet browser. Go to “tools” and then “internet options” on the drop down menu. Now delete the cookies and files. Make sure to check the box to delete offline files, as your browser stores every internet page you have ever looked at. Next, defrag your hard drive. This is done by going to your start menu, then “programs”, then “accessories”, then “system tools”, then “disk defragmenter” or some similar name. If you haven’t defragmented the disk in months, this will really help.

The next step to speed up your software is to work on your registry. The registry is a collection of files associated with the fundamental workings of your computer. When the registry gets out of whack, it is like a car going out of tune. To tune up your registry, there are plenty of “free” programs such as WINASO. You can get a free 30 day trial and do the trick. You will be surprised how much faster your PC will work.

The next step to speeding up your computer is to get rid of programs with big footprints. A footprint is the amount of CPU resources required to run the program. The worst program ever for this is Norton Anti-Virus. Frankly, the programmers for Norton should be ashamed. The program runs when your computer is on and takes up so much space that your computer will run 50 percent slower than it should. It is terrible. Delete this dog if you want any speed at all. Replace it with something like NOD32, a better anti-virus program with a much smaller footprint. You will be amazed how much faster your computer will work.

Finally, take a look at how many programs have you loaded on to your computer? How many of them do you actually use? Go through them in your add/remove programs which can be found in your control panel. Then delete those that are rarely used. This will free up disk space and eliminate any silent running systems that take up your computer resources.

All of these changes can help your PC to start running faster.

Driz Memok is with ComputerRepairServiceBusinesses.com - providing information on computer repairs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Driz_Memok

Buying a Computer with Vista Installed

2007-03-05T15:27:00.000-05:00

As we all know, Computer technology changes rapidly. No matter what financial status you may have, you still want that new computer. Sadly, if you’re on a tight budget, you have to consider the decision of buying a new computer because it will have a greater effect on you economically. Since Microsoft(tm) Vista was released, many people are deciding to purchase a new computer because the operating system is out and they needed to upgrade anyway. It’s time to look at vital information for anyone who is in this situation and wonders if a Vista is a reason to make the upgrade today.

It’s all around the news that Vista has had its problems. For example, if you use certain wireless adapters you might be stuck with a computer that can’t be connected to the internet because a patch or update has not been released yet. Many “experts” warn against purchasing a computer with Vista because it has many bugs and compatibility problems. They say everyone should hold off on the switch from XP until an updated version comes out. In addition, many say that Vista takes up entirely too much memory and computer processing capacity. Luckily, anyone who decides to buy a new computer with Vista installed will have enough RAM and other components made perfectly for running Vista. This makes this dilemma void to you.

Glitter and graphics are boasted by all who have seen and experienced Microsoft Vista. This is the main attraction of the software. These features are only in the Home Premium edition of Vista. The basic version has only a few features and the most optically exciting are not present. Buying the software form a store and upgrading a current machine would mean a smaller price tag for purchasing the basic addition. Luckily for anyone buying a whole new machine, they get to experience everything Microsoft has to offer since they usually come with Home Premium installed. The other features also shine through when Vista is spoken about. New entertainment features and improvements on games and other aspects of computer use. With any operating system improvements are inevitable and Vista is no exception.

Now that the information is laid out in a simple format, a decision can be made. Depending on your situation, you can choose to buy a new computer now, and have Vista installed or you can wait and have an updated version included. Actually, some people are saying that Vista will be like the forgotten Windows ME which left as fast as it came in. These days, nobody can wait for the outcome of new technology. If you run an old machine begging to be upgraded, by all means do so; but, if you can wait for the update exercise a little patience. If you are too impulsive, remember computers don’t come cheap to all and you may regret it later. On the other hand, if you can afford the expense; by all means go for the upgrade, have fun, and enjoy.

George Christodoulou
If you still have questions about buying a computer with microsoft Vista installed,please visit, http://download-microsoft-vista.com/ for more information!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Christodoulou

How A Computer Works

2007-03-03T00:55:00.000-05:00

A Basic Guide

Over about the last 20 years, computers have become a very important part of our society. As common as they have become, many people still don’t know how they work.

In this article, we are going to be talking your run of the mill personal computer.

A computer is not what most people think at first. At its root base, it is a machine that organizes numbers. The organization is done pursuant to instructions given to it. This back and forth is done through programs such as Windows. For the programs to work, however, there has to be a basic hardware platform. For your average computer, there are four parts – memory, a control unit, input/output devices and an ALU. Let’s take a closer look.

Memory is perhaps the easiest subject for most people to grasp. After all, even novice users know about memory since it is usually included in the marketing material for computers. But what is memory? It is essentially a collection of tiny mailboxes. A program uses memory by placing numbers representing something in various mailboxes. The combination of numbers produces the desired results when the program runs. The program interprets the information for the CPU which cranks out the result.

The control unit is pivotal. It plays the role of reading the instructions issued by programs. As it reads the instructions, it directs different areas of the computer to take corresponding actions. It is hard to visualize, but basically this is the hub of everything going on.

The ALU is a unique area. ALU stands for arithmetic and logic unit. As the name suggests, it performs arithmetic and logic functions. In this case, we are basically talking about crunching numbers or following code commands to do something. ALU is a complex and confusing area, but this is the basic idea.

Input/Output devices are our fourth area. You can probably guess what these devices are. They are external devices that provide and receive information from the computer. They include things such as your mouse, keyboard, hard drive, printer and so on. As computers have become more complex, these devices often are now found to contain their own computers to process and perform functions. In this way, the average home pc is actually a collection of computers.

All of these sections work together to make a computer do what it does. They are connected through buses, the plastic wrapped flat wires you see in the interior of your computer or simple cords on the outside. As computers evolve, many output/input devices are now connected wirelessly.

Driz Memok is with ComputerRepairServiceBusinesses.com - providing information on computer repairs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Driz_Memok

Easy To Learn Windows XP Tips and Tricks

2007-01-24T01:14:00.000-05:00

Windows XP can look a bit boring, but with these tips and tricks you can customize your Windows XP according to your needs or you can make it as fancy as you want. They are easy to do, so read below to learn the how to’s.

To customize your Start Menu, right click your Start button and left click on the Properties. You can now choose if you want the new-style Start menu for Windows XP or the old 2000 version. You also have the option to cascade the windows or arrange them horizontally or vertically.

If you want your welcome screen turned off, go to Start Menu, Control Panel then User Accounts, Change the Way Users Log On or Off. Now, you can either uncheck the Welcome Screen to change it or not. It is recommended that you uncheck this option though for maximum security. You only have to type in your user account name to gain access to your account.

The Clean Desktop Now button can be very useful in avoiding clutter on your desktop screen with icons that you do not use. Once you click this button, it will ask you if you want to remove those unused icons or not. It is your choice if you want to leave them as it is or clean your screen up.

With this being said, I hope you found this article helpful on how to customize your Windows XP.

Bob Cheeseman is a hobbyist who has been working with computers for 10 years, and enjoys sharing what he has learned. His site is geared towards beginners, and is adding information for the experienced user as well. You can read more here. http://www.gbdpro.com/.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Cheeseman

Buying A Cheap Digital Camera

2007-01-21T01:03:00.000-05:00

Often people get discouraged when they shop for a digital camera because they think that they have to get the most expensive camera out there in order to get great pictures.

But in reality you do not need to spend a lot to get a good camera that will do what you need/want it to do. There are many "cheap" digital cameras that you can purchase and just fall in love with, you may not need all of the fancy features that are out there if you have no need for them. This is one place you can save money if you don’t have to have every gismo known to man.

Many cameras are expensive due to the mexapixel rating. The higher the megapixels are, the larger your photographs can be. For the most part, cheap digital cameras won’t have a lot of megapixels, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. If you don’t need very large pictures you really don’t need a lot of this memory. My camera will print twenty by thirty inch shots, but many people simply don’t have a need for that. I personally do, but if I did not, I would have gone for the cheap digital cameras. Many of them will do eight by ten inches, and that is the biggest many people need.

Think about the overall quality of the picture when looking at cheap digital cameras. I had one that was very cheap and I don’t recommend it. It took amazing pictures outside, but if you tried to take some in the house they never came over very well. Though my photo editing software could repair them somewhat, the cheapest digital cameras that aren’t made very well won’t be something you will be satisfied with for your basic picture taking needs.

Instead, you will want to look for cheap digital cameras online and read reviews from some real people who have the cameras. This is the best way to decide which of the cheap digital cameras that will work the best for your needs.

For more information on buying a digital camera, taking better pictures with one and enjoying the benefits that digital cameras and photography have to offer, http://www.digitalcamerawiz.com/ is a terrific online resource.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Idan_Lavi

The Newest Innovations of the Laptop Notebook Computer

2007-01-18T00:59:00.000-05:00

You will find it a bit hard to live in the modern world if you refuse to use computers. Most of us probably have a computer of some sort sitting in our home or office. The laptop notebook computer is one of the latest innovations in modern technology. Carrying your computer system around with you is a great and useful advantage.

Most of us have had a desktop for quite a few years now. These massive desktop computers were great and they can get the job done. However, I find it hard to praise these relics when we have the option of having laptop notebook computers. These small wonders get all of the same tasks done, without being restricted to one specific area, or room in the house. I can now opt to be wireless and venture to any part of my home with my laptop notebook computer in hand. After all, you will not benefit from having wireless access if your computer is stuck on a desktop.

In this day and age, people no longer have to remain in their homes to work online, or to research for that big term paper. The convenience that the laptop notebook computer can offer is incredible. You can observe many people carrying them around in their school bags and brief cases. We no longer have to be connected to wires in order to work or have fun.

The DVD option is one of the many advantages of the laptop computer notebook. To tell you the truth, I didn't think much about this option when I purchased my Mac Ibook. However, the advantage became clear when my family and I went on a road trip. We can actually watch movies in the car with the help of this amazing miniature computer.

I think it’s great that computers are always getting smaller, and at the same time doing more. The laptop notebook computer is a clear example of where our future is headed. We crave more freedom as much as we love having computers and Internet access. This is the main reason why this amazing technological innovation is so prevalent in our current society. Hop online now and explore a number of possibilities if you want to purchase your first laptop notebook computer.

For more information on buying a new computer visit our website. Be sure to check out our computer directory near the bottom of the page for our recomended online resoruces to get the best deals on your next computer.

Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Laptop Notebook Computer. Visit our site for more helpful information about Laptop Notebook Computer and other similar topics.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Morgan_Hamilton

Speed Up That Older Computer Before You Buy a New One

2006-10-12T01:39:00.000-04:00

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Many people buy new computers because their current one starts running slow. With rapidly increasing processor speeds and larger amounts of memory becoming cheaper, spending a few hundred dollars does not seem so bad if it will get you back to the speed you are used to. But, any reliable computer technician will tell you that even a five or six year old computer can still run reasonably fast if it's tuned up properly.

For a computer a tune up is almost entirely software related. Every time you install a program or visit a website or download anything, there are changes made to your system that, over time, can drag performance down to a crawl. One quick way to check your systems health is to look at your resources as follows:

1. Right-click on the taskbar (this is the solid area to the left of the Start button) and choose Task Manager.

2. Click on the Performance tab and look at CPU Usage and Physical Memory Available.

3. If the CPU is running more than 15% and you have no other programs running, you may have a hidden process running in the background. Click on the Processes tab and click on the CPU column to show the item using the most of your processor. If the name of the process is unfamiliar, look it up at www.tasklist.org for a better definition.

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4. You can follow the same procedure if you find that memory available is low.

A very common cause of memory and CPU usage is spyware or malware. These are hidden programs that get installed inadvertently when you download something or try a "free" software program. If you suspect that you have some of this unwanted software, the good news is that you can usually remove it completely and gain back a lot of performance.

A search on Google.com for "spyware removal" or "adware removal" will give you many options of tools to clean this unwanted software from your computer. Most of them are free and are very effective.

Another alternative is to re-install the operating system, but that will require re-installation of all programs and documents. Just make sure you have everything backed up to CD, tape or an external drive before you try this. Most home computers today commonly contain important documents and digital pictures that may be irreplaceable if lost.

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Sean Graver is the author of many articles on computer troubleshooting for both desktop and server platforms. He is the Lead Systems Engineer for a software company in Redmond, WA managing datacenter operations in the US, UK and Australia. His computer experience extends back the late 70's and he regularly works with small business owners to automate repetitive process and streamline operations. Please visit his website,

SafeguardComputer at =>http://www.safeguardcomputer.com

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

Do You Need a Doctor For Your Computer?

2006-10-09T01:28:00.000-04:00

Over time, errors and bugs slowly creep into a computer's system, making it run slowly. It is just an un-avoidable fact of computer life.

What happens is this: your registry software (the registry is a central database of information needed to configure your computer system for general settings and preferences, software applications, and hardware drivers and devices) gets corrupted each time you use your computer. This leads eventually to application and operating system crashes. Doesn't sound too good does it! Fortunately there are products available to address this serious issue.

In choosing a registry fix software, it needs to be both easy to use and highly functional; both are important.

Another important aspect to consider is that you don't want the registry fix software to leave your computer actually worse off than when you started. And some do, despite protestations to the contrary. So when choosing software, this is an important factor.

So, should you buy registry software for your computer? Yes, if you have been using it more than six months, or noticed a reduction in speed, or regular computer crashes or seizers. Failure to address this problem could result in a total melt down of your computer.

It is a little known but very real problem all computer users will face sooner or later.

Copyright Gary Martin 2006

Gary Martin is a successful, fulltime affiliate marketer. Did you find this article useful? If you are experiencing minor or major computer problems, such as freezing, or crashing, or even if you would like to keep your computer system running efficiently, this is the registery software that I personally use and recommend: ErrorDoctor

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

Being Tied To Your Desk By Your Computer?

2006-07-29T01:52:00.000-04:00

Well don't let it drive you crazy! Get yourself a laptop and feel the freedom you deserve!

Buy a DELL Laptop Now!

At first glance, the most obvious benefit from owning a laptop computer, as opposed to a desktop computer, is that a laptop is smaller and portable. Of course, if you have a desktop computer you will naturally be tied to your desk when ever you have to do some work on your computer.

Laptops make it possible for people to take their work with them on the road. When you go through any airport terminal you will see business people, as well as your average person, happily typing away on their portable laptop computer. This was unthinkable just twenty years ago.

I remember seeing "portable" computers somewhere around 1983 which were as large as your desktop computers today. Having portable computability has major advantages for many types of individuals including college students. College students may now sit in class and take copious amounts of notes and study them at their leisure back at the dorm.

You can now get laptop computers with as much firepower as the first computers had that took up a whole room. I believe that a typical laptop today also has more computing capabilities than the first space shuttle on board computers. So, give yourself some portability and go get yourself a laptop computer.

Learn how to find cheap laptop computers on the internet

Steve McArthur

For more indepth information about laptop computers, please visit Steve's web site =>http://laptopnotebook.biz

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LCD Computer Monitors are Stylish and High-Quality

2006-06-24T16:00:00.000-04:00

The LCD Monitor is all the rage--but are they worth the price? Read below and decide for yourself--

By Jason Gluckman

Liquid crystal display monitors have taken the computer industry by storm. To own a sleek and thin LCD monitor has become a status symbol among computer users. Manufacturers across the world are trying to roll out this compact monitor to fulfill the growing demand for this stylish and high-quality image-producing product.

Unlike CRT monitors, the LCD panels are only an inch thick without including the stand. These consume less power and don’t radiate a lot of heat when used. Moreover, they are popular because of their sharper digital display. A digital display will knock off the irritating ghosting effect and deliver sharp picture quality.

An LCD monitor has a very compact configuration. This gives a clearer picture and adds to the entertainment of watching movies or videos on the screen. Its slim size enables it to fit easily into less spacious places, making it the perfect choice for small offices or homes.

LCD display screens or monitors are quite expensive, which makes it difficult for everyone to choose it above the affordable CRT. You may have to shell out $300 for a 15-inch LCD monitor, whereas for a 17-inch CRT monitor you pay only around $100.

The normal CRT monitor is very sturdy and will not crumble under minor wear and tear while in use. On the other hand, the LCD screens are extremely fragile and have to be handled carefully.

The 3D images of an LCD screen are blurry and unclear when the objects on the screen are moving. Hence, gaming enthusiasts prefer CRT over LCD screens. Graphic designers also prefer the CRT over the LCD. Furthermore, the color gradations are not clear in the LCD panel, and it poses problems in differentiating between darker shades, creating practical problems for graphic designers.

So they are small and sleek, I like the idea, actually I love the idea of the size! I use a Dell LCD Monitor at work and the picture seems great to me. I know I will have one on my next computer! A1-Computers--

Save on your next computer purchase with these, always updated, Dell Coupons.

Computer Monitors provides detailed information on Computer Monitors, LCD Computer Monitors, Flat Screen Computer Monitors, Cheap Computer Monitors and more. Computer Monitors is affiliated with Custom Desktop Computers.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Gluckman

Where's My PC Card Slot?

2006-05-29T01:51:00.000-04:00

The ExpressCard slot--a new standard as of 2003--replaces the PC Card slot but doesn't accommodate current PC Cards.

Tom Mainelli
From the July 2006 issue of PC World magazine
Posted Friday, May 26, 2006
As Reported on PC World.com

Technology is always on the move--and sometimes it moves faster than we'd like. Recently, with the arrival of the ExpressCard slot, some unsuspecting notebook buyers have experienced that phenomenon first-hand. Based on a standard announced in 2003, the ExpressCard slot replaces today's PC Card slot, improving performance and using thinner, lighter cards. Unfortunately, it can't support today's PC Cards.

What does that fact mean to you? If your new notebook has only an ExpressCard slot, you'll have to replace all of your existing PC Card-based hardware--such as Wi-Fi cards, memory card readers, and port adapters. Otherwise, if you're in the market for a new notebook and need a standard PC Card slot, you can still find a unit that offers both slot types.

For more Computer Tips

The All New 13-inch Mac Book!

2006-05-17T00:02:00.000-04:00

May 16, 2006

Just announced this morning; the all new Mac Book This one is said to be supper fast for blogging, podcasting, well it can do everything out of the box! It has up to 2GHz of pure Intel Core Duo processing power, and an iSight camera, Front Row, iLife 06' and a glossy widescreen display measureing 13 inches accross!

Be the first to have the New Mac Book it will do more than we thought possible!

13-inch black 2.0 GHz Intel Core Duo MacBook for as low as $35 a month.

For more information on buying a new computer visit our website A1-Computers.

You Can Save Hundreds When Buying A Dell Computer

2006-05-13T21:55:00.000-04:00

Are you looking to buy a new Dell Computer? If so here are some tips you should know about first; it will be worth at least a few hundred dollars to you!

Dell only sells through Dell, no middlemen; also, they do not have much over-head because they do not make a single computer until it is ordered. Because of these two reasons Dell can sell for less than most computer makers.

Dell uses various advertising venues to let you know about their low prices; television, catalogs, newspaper ads. Have you ever noticed that depending on where you see the ad the prices very greatly even though the systems are the same?

At A Glance

1. The Internet has the best deals for Dell Computers
2. Do your research to find the right model for your needs with a buying guide
3. Read reviews of your selected model(s)
4. Search for Dell Coupon Code websites, make sure they are current by checking the
expiration dates
5. Make your purchase, down grade where needed
6. Apply dell coupon at checkout

For a more detailed version of how to save hundreds on Dell Computers

To go straight to the Dell Coupon Codes Page

The Facts About Wireless Laptops

2006-05-08T01:07:00.000-04:00

Laptops give you unbelievable portability for all of your computing needs, but as the need for communication grows more each day you need a computer that will keep you in touch. There are many options for portable computing. Laptops now come in many different sizes to match your specific needs. Large or small screens are the

biggest factor affecting the size of a laptop. Extra options like media drives and larger batteries will add overall weight to laptops. The current trend for any traveler is to get the smallest computer that will get the job done. Airports have wireless internet access available, so a wireless network or wi-fi card is a good option. Large screens used to be popular but strict travel regulations have caused many people to get smaller screens. This will make the computer easier to deal with at security check points.

Major reasons for the trend in “less is more” with laptop computers, is that they have become simply more of a tool and less of a novelty. Most basic computers are very capable in running any business application and have the necessary options for general use. Basic laptops have also dropped in price dramatically. The options have become the expensive part as competition grows fierce to have the lowest priced computer available. People are now buying computers more frequently with less options because it is more cost effective that buying the newest technology.

Fast processors and large hard drives start out very expensive and quickly become standard features on basic laptops. You can keep more up to date by getting a new laptop every two years instead of getting the newest technology and trying to make it last for 4 years. Anyways, most laptops show a performance loss after about two years if the hard drive is not defragmented and formatted. It may not sound cheaper to buy a computer more often, but it also what you buy. Doing a little shopping around and assessing what you really need in a computer can save you the money that you need to buy one more often.

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.

Get more of the information that you need at http://www.find-laptops-now.info
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Stone

Computer User's Guide to Spyware

2006-05-02T18:03:00.000-04:00

As with the computer virus, spyware can be broken down into a number of different categories. Most users are familiar with the term “adware” which refers to software which serves annoying ads. There are however a number of other spyware variants you should be aware of.

To begin with it is important to have a clear definition of spyware. This will also help us understand why the term is commonly used to encompass a number of different variants. Spyware is a program, usually installed without your knowledge, which records what you do on your computer and then shares it with its creator.

The information which the spyware program collects can vary from the websites you visit to log-in and passwords for your online banking site. The sharing of your personal information with a third party is why spyware in its purest form is labelled as a malicious threat and clearly is a major privacy issue.

Adware is the second mostly commonly used term. Adware is designed to display adverts relevant you, commonly based on your surfing habits, to generate Pay-Per-Click advertising revenue or sales through affiliate links. Adware is commonly bundled with free software by developers instead of charging a price.

The malicious nature of adware can vary enormously. At one of the scale, adverts are displayed in a non-intrusive manner in a window within the free program you have downloaded. When the program is not running, ads are not displayed. At the other end of the scale, a user could find their desktop overwhelmed as the adware program spews out multiple pop up ads in a very aggressive manner. Whilst it may be possible to believe the former is not transmitting personal data to a third party, it is difficult to expect the later not to.

The adware issue is further complicated by marketing companies who do not like their software being labelled “spyware.” These marketing companies generate millions of dollars of income often via recognised brand name clients. So to avoid legal issue security companies refer to this software as PUPs (potentially unwanted programs).

Browser hijackers are another aggressive form of spyware. They attack important browser settings like your default homepage which your browser loads when you start the program. Hackers direct you to sites which generate revenue for them like the Russian website “Cool Web Search”. Browser hijackers can also insert sites into your bookmarks. They also can cause your browser to crash and stop working completely and are typically difficult to remove.

Key Loggers capture all your key strokes into a DLL file which the creator retrieves. Software key loggers are often bundled with a Trojan Virus which gives the creator access to your computer.

Here are some tips and strategies to fight the different types of spyware.

- Keep Windows XP and ALL your web browsers (including Internet Explorer and FireFox) up to date with the latest patches.

- Install a reputable anti-spyware program like Webroot Spy Sweeper or PC Tools Spyware Doctor. Run frequent scans and keep the definitions up to date.

- Install a reputable anti-virus program like Norton Anti-Virus or McAfee VirusScan. Run frequent scans and keep the definitions up to date.

- Install a firewall which manages both inbound and outbound connections. Top personal firewall software picks include Zone Labs’s Zone Alarm and Norton Personal Firewall. Alternatively purchase a router with a hardware firewall.

- Avoid downloading free software programs including screensavers and weather toolbars.

- Avoid known high spyware risk area on the internet including illegal music sharing sites, Peer-to-Peer programs, free game download sites and adult sites.

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For more information on computer accessories visit our website

Richard Rogers runs a number of computer-related sites offering Spyware Remover and Anti Virus Software help.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Rogers

iTunes Now Has Video!

2006-04-19T23:34:00.000-04:00

The Best Jukebox : The Number One Download Store

iTunes now offers over 3,000 music videos and select television shows. This is added to the two million and counting songs it already has in its data base!

Always your one-stop music shop, the iTunes Music Store features music videos and TV shows to buy and own forever. So while you browse more than 2 million songs, 35,000 podcasts and more than 16,000 audiobooks, you can also preview and download that classic '80s video or the latest episode of "The Office." Watch everything from the comfort of your Mac or PC, as many times as you like. No stuttering video streams, no advertisements, no hassle. Then sync all your songs and videos to the new iPod and take them with you wherever you go. Grow your digital music and video collection fast, easy and legal at iTunes

iTunes: All Your Music, All In One Place

Best Rated Laptops of 2006

2006-04-08T23:44:00.000-04:00

This year’s best rated laptops seem to have one thing in common. They are all called Apples. They have taken this honor from several leading computing and electronics magazines, and the trends in sales seem to suggest that consumers are feeling the same warm way about them, too.

"Presenting MacBook Pro, the most revolutionary notebook in Mac history."

Laptops such as the PowerBook and iBook have helped Apple stand tall among the other major players in the computing world, such as Dell, IBM, Compaq, and HP. In 2004 alone, Apple announced that it had an overall net income growth of 300 percent. That equaled a profit of $295 million in the last quarter. If you own Apple stock, that must make you smile.

Single computer model sales show the same trend. For instance, the iPod desktop version disappeared off the shelves at the rate of 4.5 million per year. The iMac tripled its sales. It share of the international market may still be lagging behind, though. Dell still has top honors with 18 percent of the world market. HP comes in a close second with 16 percent. And in a distant third, IBM brings in 6 percent of the share.

Still, Apple is getting the press lately that could put a dent in those figures. First of all, Apple won the 2004 Readers’ Choice Award for the brand with the most impact on an international scale. It beat out Google, which had been the winner for two years running.

No matter what awards for best rated laptops or percentages of the world market that Apple acquires in the next few years, you can rest assured that the company will continue to put out the innovative high quality products that are its signature.

Just take the software that is featured on its Apple laptops and desktops. Such marvels of application design as iPhoto and iTunes make Apple so popular just because these programs are so useful yet so easy to use. Try saying that about the software that comes standard with most other MP3 players or digital cameras. It’s this simplicity and power that make Apples some of the best rated laptops around.

As reported on Best Rated Laptops and Compuers:
http://www.best-rated-laptops-and-computers.info/

Upgrading the Sound on your Home Computer

2006-04-04T17:52:00.000-04:00

Computers these days are becoming more than just an avenue to surf the web and do word processing. They are becoming multimedia stations that allow us to watch movies and listen to the latest music. Especially with new solutions such as renting DVD's online and pay per download music downloading programs. This is why having good sound on your computer is important for the best possible multimedia experience.

There are two ways you can increase the quality of sound coming from your computer. I will discuss both.

The first would be to upgrade, or get a new, sound card for your computer. The quality of the sound signal being sent from your computer is determined by the sound card. Also the amount of channels that are being sent, and the number of connectivity options you have. This is why having a good quality sound card is important. There are several cards on the market that can deliver a great listening experience.

The second way to enhance your sound quality would be to get a quality set of speakers. There are an infinite number of options you have in this regards. You can get a standard 2 speaker system, a 2.1 speaker system (2 speakers and a subwoofer), a 4.1 system and the ultimated 5.1 system. The most enhancing system would be the 5.1 system.

Multimedia Speakers

The 5.1 system consists of 5 speakers and a subwoofer. The subwoofer will deliver the bass and the low frequency sounds. The other speakers would be positioned strategically around the room to give the best array of sounds.

Computers today are not the simple machines they were years ago. They have the capabilities to be a lot more. With this in mind utilizing these capabilities will be very cost effective. Now you do not need to buy a stereo system and a television. A computer can fulfill both these duties.

Save on your next computer purchase with these, always updated, Dell Coupons.

About The Author:For more great technology related articles and reviews visit the Technology Slice website

Article Source: http://www.articleblast.com/

Exactly What is the iPod?

2006-03-24T00:39:00.000-05:00

White earbuds, hmmm, iPod, MP3--What does it all mean? A1-Computers--

If you ask 10 people to explain what an iPod is, you’ll likely receive 10 different answers; and all of them will likely contain some element of fact and logic. Introduced by Apple Computers in 2001, the iPod is technically defined as a portable music player; and even this doesn’t do it justice.

As you’ll see (or perhaps know already from your own experience), the iPod is so much more than a mere convenient way for you to listen to music while on the go.

These things SELL!

The iPod is the #1 seller of legal digital music and digital music devices.

And just what does it take to be #1 in the highly competitive personal entertaining business? Well, since its launch in 2001, over 3 million iPods have been sold; and counting.

In fact, in a 3 month period from April to June 2004, almost over 850,000 iPod and iPod minis were sold. To put that into some kind of perspective, that’s almost 10,000 iPods/iPod minis per day. And if that doesn’t make you go WOW, that’s 398 per hour, or just under 7 per minute – of every hour, of every day, for 3 months!

It’s no wonder, given these awesome sales total, that the question most people ask these days isn’t: are you getting an iPod, but rather: where is your iPod?

For more information on Music, downloading, and MP3 Players

Mia LaCron is the founder of IpodFunctions.com - http://www.ipodfunctions.com/ - devoted to helping individuals get the most out of their Ipod.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mia_LeCron

The Laptop Is Not Enough

2006-03-17T00:48:00.000-05:00

COMPUTERS--there is always somthing new!

Jason Lee Miller
Staff Writer

Published: 2006-03-16

It wasn't so much that we loved James Bond. We wanted to be James Bond. He had some serious gadgetry, and unlike fellow gadget-chucking hero Batman, 007's suave style of lewdness earned him a license to thrill-incessantly.

Even if some of us (you, not me) haven't mastered the art of flitting from flower to flower, all of us can soon take advantage of micro-technology that lets us flit from computer to computer, complete with finger print bio-security and LCD readout. All we need now are secret compartment wingtips, a poison-dart watch, and (why not complete it?) an armored Maserati.

The next wave of mobile computing will be USB-based open-source programmed computers. Last week, FingerGear upgraded its Computer-On-a-Stick (COS) to include an LCD and Onboard Fingerprint Authentication for added security. The Professional Edition COS uses a USB Flash Drive to allow users to plug into a host computer and, well, take it over-with your own background and instant messenger to go with it.

The device comes pre-installed with a Linux operating system, OpenOffice Suite, Evolution Email, and Firefox Browser, among others. Compatible with PCs that use an x86 processor, the open source software is compatible with proprietary applications like Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.

Why open source? Keeps those pesky licensing fees down while allowing the computer to work virtually everywhere. The Computer-On-a-Stick is proving popular. Every version, from 256M to 2G is currently sold out.

FingerGear isn't the only company capitalizing on this technology. There are others, including BlackDog's similar offering.

Looking for Computer sales, specials, and coupons?

Tag: USB Computing
document.write("Email WebProNews here.")
Email WebProNews here.

New iPod Accessories

2006-03-15T23:05:00.000-05:00

By Jason Hahn

With the ever-increasing popularity of the iPod and all its various forms, it follows that more and more accessories will become both important and appealing to iPod owners. Here are three new accessories that iPod owners may want to consider purchasing. . .

Go to New iPod Accessories to see what the new accessories are.

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How To Find the Right Laptop Backpack For You

2006-03-12T18:52:00.000-05:00

You have spent a lot of money on your laptop. You want to make sure you have the best way of carrying it with you. Laptop backpacks have become the trendiest answer to this need. Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking for the perfect laptop backpack.

First consideration in finding the perfect laptop backpack is comfort. If you're not happy with the way it feels on you then you really are not going to care about the other features. Make sure your laptop backpack manufacturer has taken your comfort into consideration. Simple things like a variety of choices on how you can wear the straps show that the creator was thinking of comfort.

Another big consideration is padding. No matter how far laptops have advanced they are still fragile pieces of equipment. Accidents do happen. Make sure your laptop backpack is equipped with enough padding to protect your expensive cargo.

Next on your laptop backpack consideration hit list should be workmanship. You bought a laptop because of its portability and that means you want to take it everywhere. Make sure your laptop backpack can handle an extended period of use with little wear and tear.

Another important but often overlooked aspect to consider in your search for the perfect laptop backpack is creativity. Laptops come with a lot of accessories and more are being created every day. Make sure your laptop backpack has lots of compartments for all these little, but important, extras.

Finally, if budget allows, look for the wow factor. Laptop backpack manufacturers are starting to add things like water-resistant outer fabric and closed-cell shock absorption foam padding for the laptop backpack owner that has everything.

So now you have the essentials needed to go out and find the best laptop backpack for you. Have fun.

Save on your next computer and computer accessories purchase with these Dell Coupons.

Sources: www.studenttravel.about.com www.goeurope.about.com

This article is provided courtesy of http://backpackpacker.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trevor_Kassulke

Why Buy a Dell Laptop?

2006-03-08T23:53:00.000-05:00

Buy a DELL Now!

One of the most well known brands on the market are Dell laptops. Of course, this comes from a lot of advertising. But their quality goes a long way in explaining why they are so big in the IT world.

Let's take for example the new Dell Inspiron 6000. This is a high powered notebook that features the so-called Sonoma chipset which happens to be the latest Intel processor. Now, this chipset is strictly for mobile computers, so it is specifically designed to make sure your laptop works as optimally as possible. This involves the best in battery power life, the fastest graphics for gaming and multimedia, and wireless connectivity.

As far as wireless technology goes, these Dell laptops pack the latest technology. For example, they offer the optional Bluetooth for you business users out there. Of course then there is the standard 10/100 ethernet card and Wi-Fi access, so you can use your card in wireless hotpsots at home, in your local coffee shop ar at work.

Here are a few other accessories that round out the connectivity of these computers. It has an IEEE 1394 port, a Firewire port, an S-Video port and four USB ports. Now, if that's not enough, the Inspiron 6000 also has a slot for Secure Digital Memory cards.

Now, no matter how many digital cameras, music players, personal digital assistants (PDA's), or cell phones you have, your Dell Inspiron 6000 notebook will have enough access for all of them.
This computer also has a big brain! You can choose from either a 1.30 GHz Intel Celeron processor or the 1.60 GHz Pentium processor. As far as hard drives go, they also come in a selection of ranges from 30 GB to 80 GB. You can also pack the computer with optical drives like a DVD double layer burner or a writeable CD/DVD combo.

What does this mean for the layperson? All these numbers and abbreviations mean only one thing, no matter what you need your computer for, there are Dell laptops out there that are perfect for the task.

I have had nothing but Dell computers in my office as well as my home and I will continue to buy them and recommend them. Not just because they are excellently made computers, but because Dell stands behind their products in price as well as service.

Just to give you an example of the Dell Service, I purchased a Dell Desktop last year for my office, one of many. This one computer did develop a problem with the DVD drive. I could read DVD's but I couldn't burn one. I called support they responded very quickly and while I was on the phone with them the technician had me run some tests. The DVD unit was found to be defective. The technician offered to send me a new unit by next day air or have a technician come to my office. I chose the latter, and the technician showed up within 24 hours replaced the unit and had me up running. Now for me I couldn't have asked for better or faster service.

Save on your next computer purchase with these, always updated, Dell Coupons

Get your free report "How to clean up and protect your computer" at http://www.best-rated-laptops-and-computers.info.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Garry_Allen

Refurbished Laptops Hitting Record Sales

2006-03-07T00:52:00.000-05:00

Refurbished Laptops and Desktops for that matter are such a great deal! Up to 60% off and you still get the same warranty and quality. I see no down side here!
A1-Computers--

Just when you thought a new computer was too expensive something exciting happens. Something called "refurbished". Computer equipment is getting better everyday. Technology is far exceeding everyone's expectations and the durability and reliability is ever increasing. For this reason refurbished laptops are selling faster today than ever before! People are starting to realize they can save up to 60% off the retail value and still get an awesome laptop computer.

Why are refurbished laptop sales on the rise? Companies are getting overloaded with equipment that is used, but not very old. Individuals that have extra money to burn and simply must have the newest of everything are trading in their old computers for new ones. Instead of just throwing it away, corporations are refurbished them to make available to the more savvy person. All the same great replacement parts go into a refurbished notebook computer, but the savings are tremendous.

This word of reconditioning computer equipment is spreading like wildfire. Many refurbished dealers are finding it increasingly difficult to keep products in stock because people are simply buying them so fast. These hot items are in serious demand.

Refurbished laptops are not the only thing selling like hotcakes right now either. There are several different products that are flying off the shelves like crazy. For instance, refurbished palm pilots, MP3 players, desktops, and printers are just a few. Technology all around is getting better. Top companies are producing the highest quality merchandise and they are also reconditioning products to last longer and perform better.

Some of the best computer companies in the world like IBM, Dell, HP, Gateway are all refurbishing computer equipment with highly skilled technicians with the most sophisticated equipment. Now when you buy refurbished notebooks the quality is brought up to the same high standards of a new one, without the high cost.

For the most part, many of us will never use all the capabilities a new laptop has anyway. Refurbished laptops are very comparable in performance and features, so why would anyone bother paying the large sticker price of a new notebook computer? It's hard to say. Refurbished laptops come with Windows OS, have blazing processor speeds, ample memory, and the list goes on and on. Of course the refurbished laptop computer has been used, but most of the time it is really hard to tell.

Being able to justify reasons to buy new over reconditioned is getting more difficult to do. Refurbished laptops offer the same features and reliability a new one does, but one major difference- the price! Buying, or updating your old computer equipment just got much more affordable thanks to new and improved technology and better refurbishing techniques. It's hard to keep up with our ever changing world, but it doesn't have to be expensive.

Inventory Blowout! Great Prices on surplus New Desktops at Dell Outlet!
While supplies last!

For more ways to find cheap laptop computers on the internet.

Online Crazy Deals offers factory reconditioned computer equipment ranging from desktop computers to laptops and palm pilots. Savings are spectacular when compared to new products. OCD has quickly become one of the most trusted refurbished dealers in the world due to only offering the best reconditioned equipment possible.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Johnson

Want to make your computer run like new again?

2006-03-03T13:13:00.000-05:00

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For more information on Computer Tips

Tomorrows MP3 Digital Music -

2006-03-03T01:26:00.000-05:00

Small with Tons of Storage, Larger with a Video Screen, Which Will The Futhure Bring?

Tomorrow's MP3 digital music - will it be small with tons of storage, larger with a video screen, or non-existent and end up in a cellphone.

Changes in the market will likely split into all three markets the way as stated in the title above. Most of it really depends on the Americans and Europeans and which continent will be more aggressive in marketing. Basically Europeans tend to like their gadgets in one source. But Americans seem to have more than one gizmo on them. Music players probably will not get much smaller because they are at the limit of there usability.

Future of digital music

Flash memory players may eventually not be able to keep up with the hard drive mp3 players due to manufacturers working on potentially offering more storage where 5 to 10 gigabit players will become available on the hard drive end. Going forward, they could be all about video and image playback just like they are now all about music. This will not move forward until manufactures and software companies are convinced their copyright is secure since being such a new area in music development.

Future music around the house

More music digital video will eventually change music listening at home. Manufactures are constantly creating devices to take music from a computer and have it play hi fi digital music on your home stereo. There are a few wireless systems currently available on the market, like the wireless music centre from Phillips, the Sonos digital music system, or Microsoft's media center extender. Apple also has it own product called airport express. All of these can stream wireless music around your home.

For more information on iPods

Daryl Plaza is the owner of Everything About MP3s - a website focused on helping people learn more about MP3 players. For tips and information on MP3 players and accessories, music downloads check out this website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daryl_Plaza

New At The Apple Store Today!

2006-03-01T00:21:00.000-05:00

The Apple Store announced today the new iPod Hi-Fi as well as a new Mac mini with Intel!

iPod Hi-Fi!

An all-new high-fidelity speaker system that works seamlessly with the iPod to remake the home stereo system. Featuring seamless integration with all iPods through the dock connector, iPod Hi-Fi even recharges your iPod automatically when you have it docked and it is easily controlled with a remote control!

Now you can turn your iPod into a home stereo for the twentyfirst century.

If you buy now you get free shipping but only at the Apple Store.

Also unveiled today was the Mac mini with Intel.

The new Mac mini with Intel Core Duo processor, delivers performance up to four times faster than its predecessor and provides even greater expansion in the same innovative and incredibly compact design. Starting at just $599, the Mac mini is the most affordable way to enjoy iLife® '06, the next generation of Apple's award-winning suite of digital lifestyle applications, and features the Apple Remote and Front Row : you can play your music, enjoy your photo slideshows, watch your DVDs, iMovies, music videos and television shows all from across the room!

The Mac mini will make it easy and affordable to work with digital photos, movies, music, and the web. And now it all happens with the blazing speed of the Intel Core, in either Solo or Duo configurations.

From $599. Free Shipping, Available Now!

With Mac mini, Small can be beautiful!

For more information on buying a new computer be sure to check out our computer directory near the middle of the page for our recomended online resoruces to get the best deals on your next computer.

Why You Should Learn Computer Building

2006-02-25T01:13:00.000-05:00

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

The World's first OS X virus hits Apple

2006-02-17T01:49:00.000-05:00

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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Save on your next computer purchase with these, always updated, Dell Coupons.

Your Computer Needs Backup

2006-02-15T00:05:00.000-05:00

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—

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.

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

How to Increase Your Computer Speed Fast

2006-02-13T16:23:00.000-05:00

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 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

Circulated by Article Emporium

Introduction to Tablet PCs

2006-02-12T00:43:00.000-05:00

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.

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

Apple unveils another iPod

2006-02-10T01:02:00.000-05:00

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

By: AP
February 9, 2006

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

What Really Causes Your PC’s Poor Performance

2006-02-08T16:23:00.000-05:00

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/

Multi-Monitor Solutions You Can Afford

2006-02-06T01:28:00.000-05:00

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

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

2006-02-01T17:22:00.000-05:00

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

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:

For more articles on cheap laptops

Dell Coupons Codes

2006-01-31T13:55:00.000-05:00

A1-Computers has added two money saving pages for you today. The first page is all the current online only sales for all different brands of computers and computer accessories. The second page is Dell Coupon codes. These codes give substantial savings on Dell Computers and Dell Computer accessories. These codes are constantly updated so you always get the current savings.

1. A1-Computer's Specials, Sales, Coupons and More!

2. Save on your next computer purchase with these, always updated, Dell Coupons.

Enjoy your savings!
A1-Computers

Why Build Your Own Gaming Computer?

2006-01-30T01:37:00.000-05:00

As long as you do your research and get a good quality book you can build your own gaming computer and it's really easyer than you may think!
A1-Computers--

The best way to get the gaming computer that you want, that will provide optimum performance is to build your own computer. If you think you do not have the technical knowledge or are not capable of building a computer you are wrong. I'm pretty certain that I could teach my mother (who has a hard time working a VCR) how to build a computer. If you can plug a sweeper into a wall outlet and use a screw driver, you too can build a computer.

What The Computer Manufacturers Don't Want You to Know!

Manufacturers don't want you to know how easy it is to build a computer because they make their living selling complete computers. The truth is that manufacturers focus on selling a computer with an overall low price tag to entice people to buy. They use the processor and software as the primary selling point. In most cases other than the processor and maybe the graphics card you have no idea what components they actually use. Alienware is one of the rare exceptions. They tell you for the most part what components they are using. However, this doesn't mean that these are the best components on the market. Every manufacturer gets regular visits from sales people convincing them that they should use their products. Just because a company gives them the best deal on a power supply that allows them to increase their profit margin on the computers they sell doesn't make it the best power supply. This often leads to the use of inferior products for the sake of profit.

The Advantages To Building Your Own Computer

By building your own computer you are assured of getting the highest quality because you have painstakingly researched every component. If you've ever wondered why your store bought gaming computer with the top of the line graphics card and ultra fast CPU is still having trouble running newer games, it is likely because they stuck you with an inferior power supply, cheap motherboard, inadequate RAM, and the list goes on. In my mind it makes sense to build your own.

Warranties and Technical Support

If you are worried about warranties, you need not be. In most cases you can get a manufacturers warranty on every component you buy. As for technical support, I've had much better luck with getting questions answered through friendly helpful forums on the internet than I ever have from technical support lines. Not to mention you don't have to pay to sit on hold.

Buy a DELL Now!

Upgrades Are Painless And Fast

When you build your own computer upgrades are a snap. You've already put it together so switching a hard drive or changing the graphics card is extremely easy. For instance I just upgraded my graphics card. It took me longer to unplug everything from the back of my tower than it did to swap the graphics card. All in all I was up and running with the new drivers installed in about 10 minutes. If you are impatient like I am taking your machine to a store to have it upgraded just isn't worth the wait.

How To Build Your Own Computer

I hope I've convinced you to build your own computer. It is a very rewarding experience. As I've said it isn't very difficult. I do however recommend that you do your research. There are several good books published on the topic such as "Build Your Own PC", by Morris Rosenthal. You can also find a great deal of information regarding building computers and computer hardware at my website Gaming-Computers.net. Good luck with your computer, and remember, if you ever run into problems building it there are thousands of people on the Net that are more than willing to help, and they won't charge you a technician's service fee.

For more information on buying a new computer . Be sure to check out our computer directory near the bottom of the page for our recomended online resoruces to get the best deals on your next computer and parts to build your own.

About The Author
Nathan Holsing is the editor of Gaming-Computers.net, a website that provides information on computer hardware, buying guides, and tutorial on how to build computers.

questions@gaming-computers.net

How to Extend the Battery Life on Your Laptop Computer

2006-01-26T23:14:00.000-05:00

Here are 2 great battery power savers for you to put to use right away to stretch you batteries life between charges. A1-Computers--

Without any Extra Power Sources

Laptop computers are great portable offices, and as technology increases and speeds of computers increase, we are seeing battery life also increase and provide longer usage time with out the need to be "plugged in."

But occasionally, as business travelers, who need to be plugged in, it can be hard to find an outlet and one may be stranded to only use the internal juice in your computer.

Most laptop batteries last about 2 hours on a full charge, but I found a couple of creative ways to turn those 2 hours into 3 or even 4 hours of pure usage time, with out having to buy more gadgets to fill up or weigh down my briefcase.

Here are two really simple things you can do, to prolong your power on your laptop and get more usage out of your charge.

1. Turn off your wireless transmitter

When you are using your laptop with your wireless transmitter, it is always looking for a signal. So by disabling it, in an area where you cannot get any internet access via wireless, it will actually conserve your battery life.

2. Lower Your Screen Contrast

Most people don't think about this one.

But if you usually have your laptop monitor set at the highest and brightest contrast, your computer is working the hardest.

If you simply lower your contrast in half to make it less brighter, you will find you can still see the interfaces on your computer very well.

Find all of your batteries and mobile accessories at batteries.com!!

By doing this in a bright area, you may have trouble if your bightness "whites out" too much.

But in a dark airplane for example, lowering your contrast and brightness in half can actually make it easier to see your screen and make it less bright and even more enjoyable for your passenger sitting next to you, to not have a bright laptop light shining in their face.

Using these two simple powersavers can possible let your laptop power cycle jump from 2 hours to 3 or even 4 hours.

For more computer tips and information on buying a cheap laptop

Jeff Mills is a former Youth Pastor of 9 years, who is now a full time internet information entrepreneur, book author, speaker, sales coach, and also an avid business traveler.

Jeff has passionately pursued seeking the best discount travel clubs and has discovered Coastal Vacations Travel Club to be the top of the heap, saving members up to 75% off their trips for life. Discover how you can travel and earn $1000 or more in commissions immediately at http://www.whoisjeffmills.com/ for a fantastic work from home business.

Finding The Best Laptop Accessory

2006-01-26T01:43:00.000-05:00

Are you a laptop lover? Someone your shopping for is the notebook toter? Well find below some great ideas on where to purchase some great accessories. A1-Computers--

Buy a DELL Now!

Where can you find that gift for the laptop owner in your family? I have found that the best gift for anyone who really is into something, like his or her laptop, a good accessory is a great gift. So for that laptop lover in your family, think about a laptop accessory to give for a gift. It is a toy and tool all in one for the person that seemingly has everything he wants. So where do you find that perfect laptop accessory for your family member or friend? There are a number of places you can look for one. Check the internet, computer stores, and department stores to find what you are looking for a price you like.

The first place you should go when trying to find that perfect laptop accessory is the internet. The internet is such a great source for all shopping, but it is especially good for finding computer accessories. There, you will be able to look at the laptop accessory you are considering, read reviews about it from others who have bought the product, and even have it sent to either your home or directly to the person for whom you are buying it. All in all, the internet may be not only your first, but also your best destination for finding the perfect laptop accessory to give next time there is an occasion.

The next option you have as far as seeking out that laptop accessory that will wow the laptop lover in your family is your local computer store. Electronics and computer stores often carry many accessories in addition to the computers and laptops they have in stock. There, you will be able to talk in person to an expert who can tell you what laptop accessory will be the best to get for your friend or relative. They will also be able to tell you how to install it, whether or not it is compatible with the laptop your recipient is using, and obviously how much it is going to cost you. It may be a great way for you to really get informed about and go ahead and purchase the laptop accessory you need.

Thirdly, you can always check your local department store to see if they have a laptop accessory that will work for your friend. Many stores are now carrying the accessories even if they don't carry the laptops or PCs themselves. You may not get the expert advice you will get from a computer store, but you will likely get a better price since there is no salesman needing a commission. Your laptop accessory price may also not be as good as what you will get online, but there will probably be a better return policy and you can actually see the product and hold it.

No matter what you decide on, a good laptop accessory will likely please your friend or relative to no end. He or she will greatly appreciate the ability to further customize and enjoy the laptop that he or she is so into. It is like a toy for them, but likely with a very useful and practical side as well. So, no matter where you pick up that laptop accessory, just make sure you do your research and get what works best for your situation.

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

If you would like to view more of my articles on laptop accessories, please feel free to visit my website on computer accessories!

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

Parts of a Laptop: Batteries, Screen and CPU

2006-01-23T01:09:00.000-05:00

The parts of a laptop and what makes it work; screen, mobile CPUs, media types, ac cord, and batteries. A1-Computers--

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Electronics and computers are very popular today so it is no surprise that more and more people are getting them. And as technology advances, electronics are becoming smaller and smaller and also portable. This is where we get laptops, or notebook computers.

Laptops use batteries to run the computer so you can make it mobile. You can take it anywhere you go. But there are other components aside from just batteries that are needed to make the laptop work. In case you don’t already know, we are going to go over the parts of a laptop and what makes it work.

Screen:
It seems obvious but your laptop is also going to need a screen. The screen is the display that will show what you are doing on the computer while you are surfing the Net, using word processing or more. In the early days of laptops, they had very dim and hard to read screens but now they are bright and even come in wide screen and more. There are different options when it comes to your displays. You can go with dual-scan or active matrix.

Mobile CPUs:
But you already know there is more to the laptop than the display. The way the computer actually runs is going to be very important to your usage. You need a mobile CPU to make the computer actually run. Mobile CPUs use less power and they keep the machine fro overheating which is very important with laptops.

Media Types:
Laptops usually come with modular, or swappable, bays that allow you to remove the floppy drive, DVD drive and even the hard drive. There are many reasons why this is convenient for you. For example, if you use different media for storing data, you can easily switch back and forth between media types.

AC Cord:
The laptop is powered by an AC cord. This power supply allows the laptop to plug into a wall and a simple ordinary plug in. This makes it easy to plug your laptop in almost anywhere you go. The only downside is that many contain the power brick that can get in the way if you are working in a very small space. If this is a problem for you, you can look into more compact devices that will help you when you are working in a smaller space.

Batteries:
You know that the biggest reason why someone gets a laptop is for the mobility. The greatest part of the laptop is the ability to use the batteries and travel anywhere with your computer. You can use the AC cord just to plug it in when you need to recharge the batteries. You can also get extra batteries as backup if you will be away from a power source for a while.

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For more information on purchasing a cheap laptop visit our website. Be sure to check out the Laptop Directory near the bottom of the page for our recomended online resources to get the best deals on your next laptop.
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About the author:
Melissa Knab is the owner of Batteries Pro, Inc. which is a premier source of information about batteries. For more information, go to: batteriespro.com

How to Find Cheap Laptop Computers

2006-01-22T02:56:00.000-05:00

Yes there are plenty of good deals on quality "cheap laptops" out there to be found, especially online. Just check out our specials, sales, and coupons page.

By Garry Allen

Ah yes, I want a laptop but I am not going to spend a couple of thousand dollars for one. Well guess what you don't have to. Laptop prices have come down dramatically over the past year alone and they will continue to do so as technology advances. But the trick here is to find good quality laptops that fit your needs at the cheapest prices available today.

I would say that there probably is a store near you right now that has cheap laptop computers. In fact, many stores already have them. The reason being, like any other new product, laptops were once considered the cream of the crop in the computer world which made them very expensive. However, all that has changed now. Laptops are a dime a dozen! The hand held digital assistants, Bluetooth cell phones and tablet pads are the new rage making laptop computers cheap.

Now, don't get me wrong, this does not mean that they are cheaply made. Thanks to the wonders of the technological cycle, laptop computers are decreasing in price as their capabilities rise. Of course, there are the latest and greatest monsters out there that are made for gaming or high powered multimedia applications and these babies still cost a pretty penny.

But for the average user, you can find cheap laptop computers that provide all the power you need and then some. Every major manufacturer out there, like Dell, HP, Compaq, Gateway, and IBM have their lower end and intermediate models that come with more than enough speed and usability.

Now here is the key to finding the right cheap computer laptop for you, and that is to figure out exactly what you need it for.

Are you going to use it mainly for surfing the web or word processing? Do you need it to work from home or mainly to save your MP3s and digital pictures?

Ok, so now you have an idea of what you want to use your laptop for. Now lets go out shopping and compare. You can visit any of the top manufacturers websites or visit your local store and find their low end or intermediate models that may suit your needs. The three top components of a computer you want to look for is the hard drive size, memory, and processor speeds and take notes of each model you find on each component and model.

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The hard drive, you can consider this the brain of your computer, this is where all your files, applications and folders are stored. If you plan on using your computer for MP3s and digital pictures your hard drive should be large since these files are usually very large. I personally would look at 80gb as minimum.

Next would be the memory, memory can be considered the thought processes of your computer. As a minimum I would look at 512mb but if you plan on using your laptop for gaming of course this should be much larger, in the area of 1 to 2gb. Now memory is used whenever a program or application is running. So the more memory you have the faster your computer can process the program.

And finally your processor, now your processor is just that it processes all the inner workings of how each program runs. The faster the processor is, the faster the program instructions are processed. Again if your looking for a laptop for gaming uses you want your processor with high speeds 2ghz or more. For other uses you can go less.

Other parts of the computer to also consider are the ports involved that can connect your computer to your digital camera or your mp3 player for example. You also want to check that your laptop has wireless and broadband connectivity. Many cheap computer laptops today already come with this but you want to make sure or you will have to pay additional, for example, a wireless card to install in your laptop to have this capability.

For more information on cheap laptops

Your #1 source for free computer and laptop tips and reviews at Best rated laptops and computers.

PC viruses hit 20 year milestone

2006-01-21T01:37:00.000-05:00

Virus-virus-virus, no one wants one, no one wants to deal with them, but if we have a computer on-line we don't have much choice but to protect it. How long have viruses been around? A1-Computers--

The 20th anniversary of the first PC virus falls this month.

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The 20th anniversary of the first PC virus falls this month. It was during the opening weeks of 1986 that the first PC virus, called Brain, was discovered in the wild.

Though it achieved fame because it was the first of its type, the virus was not widespread as it could only travel by hitching a ride on floppy disks swapped between users.

Now 20 years after they first appeared there are more than 150,000 malicious programs in existence.

Rapid attack

The origins of the Brain virus are disputed. It is thought to have been created by a Pakistani software firm to help protect the software it created and sold.

The virus was discovered in January 1986 but may have been written some time before that as it used a relatively slow method to travel.

Brain was known as a "boot-sector" virus because of the area on a floppy disk it hid on. By concealing itself in this region, the virus could ensure that it would be installed every time that floppy disk was used on another computer. The Brain virus is now extinct.

Although Brain was the first PC virus, it was not the first malicious computer program. That honour goes to the Elk Cloner virus written by Richard Skrenta which infected Apple II machines.

The term computer virus dates from 1984 and was coined by US computer scientist Fred Cohen.

Since Brain first appeared, the number of viruses and other malicious programs in circulation has grown enormously. Microsoft's Windows operating system is the favourite target of virus writers.

The growth of local computer networks, e-mail and the internet has fuelled this rise and now it can take only hours for a new virus to appear and infect thousands. There are also many different types of viruses that use varying attack types to infect machines.

The reasons people write viruses has also changed.

"The most significant change has been the evolution of virus writing hobbyists into criminally operated gangs bent on financial gain," said Mikko Hypponen, chief research officer at Finnish anti-virus firm F-Secure.

This week the FBI released figures which suggest that 84% of US businesses were attacked by viruses, spyware and other malicious programs in 2005.

On average, dealing with the attack cost US businesses $24,000, said the FBI.

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As Reported on The BBC News

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Windows XP Service Pack 3 Not Due Until 2007

2006-01-17T19:16:00.000-05:00

Windows XP Service pack, will it be out soon? It isn't looking that way. What is the hold up? A1-Computers--

By Mary Jo Foley January 17, 2006

Microsoft Corp. has gone public with a tentative date for its third service pack for Windows XP. And that date—the latter half of 2007—is considerably later than many company watchers were expecting.

Microsoft has published the due date for Windows XP SP3 (Service Pack 3) on its Windows Lifecycle Web site.

While Microsoft characterized the date as "preliminary," it is still as much as a year later than a number of customers, partners and industry analysts had been anticipating.

Last April, according to at least one Web report, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer said Microsoft was considering releasing SP3 before Longhorn (now Windows Vista) shipped.

Windows Vista is expected to ship in the second or third quarter of 2006.

Microsoft also has published "latter half of 2006" as the tentative release date for the second service pack for Windows Server 2003.

The "preliminary" due date for Windows Server 2003 SP2 (Service Pack 2) date jibes with what industry experts were expecting.

Microsoft has not made public an official list of planned fixes (and new features, if any) that will be part of either the Windows Server 2003 SP2 or Windows XP SP3 releases.

Read the full story on Microsoft Watch: Windows XP Service Pack 3: Not Until 2007

As reported on E-week.com

For more computer tips visit our website and surf around this blog.
A1-Computers.net

Take 4 Steps To Secure Your Thumb Drive Data

2006-01-17T13:33:00.000-05:00

USB thumb drives are a handy way to store important files. Lately, they've become a very popular way of transporting data between home computers and work or school. Unless you pay attention to security, they can create big problems.

You might know them as flash drives, key drives or jump drives. They plug into a computer's Universal Serial Bus port and can hold anywhere from 16 megabytes to a whopping 8 gigabytes of data. And they're more resilient than DVDs or CDs. (Related item: Ask Kim)

The greatest benefit of thumb drives is their portability. They slip easily into your pocket. But that's also their greatest drawback. They're easily lost or stolen, jeopardizing your sensitive data. Also, they can transfer viruses between computers.

So here are four security tips:

1. Guard it carefully

Many people are careless with thumb drives. People often leave them lying around or attach the drives to key chains. How often have you lost your keys?

Better are ones that you can attach to a cord and wear around your neck. This won't appeal to the fashion-conscious, but it helps prevent loss or theft.

Some thumb drives have cords that connect to the drive's protective removable cap. Forgo these. You want one with a cord that connects to the body of the drive.

2. Watch out for viruses

Be careful when you connect your thumb drive to shared computers. Just like floppy disks, thumb drives can easily transfer viruses.

Make sure you're only transferring data. Any computer you connect the drive to should have anti-virus software running. Of course, the virus definitions must be current. The anti-virus software should scan the drive as soon as it is connected.

If the drive isn't from a trusted source, don't connect it to your computer.

3. Encrypt your data

If your thumb drive falls into the wrong hands, your data is fair game. So it is important to protect your files.

Encryption will "scramble" your data. It can only be unscrambled with the correct password. Encryption that is 128-bit is very secure.

Many drives come bundled with encryption features. Double-check that the encryption software is not a trial version. Otherwise, you will need to pay to use it once the trial expires.

Once you set up the encryption software, get in the habit of using it. And don't forget to create a strong password. A combination of at least eight numbers and upper- and lower-case letters is most effective. Don't use an easily recognizable word, but make sure you can remember it — without writing it down.

If your thumb drive doesn't have encryption software, you can buy additional software. Programs like File Encryption XP (www.cp-lab.com, $30), Folder Crypto Password (www.folder-password-protect.com, $20) and Folder Lock (www.newsoftwares.net, $35) can encrypt your thumb drive files.

Additionally, some manufacturers make drives with biometric fingerprint readers. A built-in scanner reads your fingerprint before granting access to the drive. This provides excellent security. Expect to pay a premium for this feature.

Drives with biometric scanners require that software be installed on the computer. This limits where you can access your thumb drive. You might find yourself in a situation where you can't access your data.

4. Back up your data

Losing your thumb drive is painful, even when the contents are protected. So, back up your data!

You should always keep multiple copies of important data. This is particularly true when the storage medium is susceptible to loss or damage. Most thumb drives are made of plastic, which isn't always durable.

For more information on thumb drives

About the Author:
Komando hosts a national radio show about computers and the Internet. To find the station nearest you broadcasting Kim's show, visit: www.komando.com/findkimonair.asp. To subscribe to Kim's free weekly e-mail newsletter, sign up at: www.komando.com/newsletter.asp.

As Reported On USA Today
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Dell recalls 35,000 batteries worldwide

2006-01-14T18:49:00.000-05:00

We here at A1-Computers recomend Dell Computers so we thought this was important for our readers. If you have purchased a Dell Notebook between Oct. 5, 2004, and Oct. 13, 2005 and have not heard about this yet please read this news artcle.

Dell recalls 35,000 batteries worldwide
Action affects Dell notebooks sold between Oct. 5, 2004, and Oct. 13, 2005

News Story by Tom Krazit

DECEMBER 16, 2005 (COMPUTERWORLD) - Dell Inc. and the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission announced a recall of about 35,000 notebook batteries that could potentially pose a fire risk.

No injuries have been reported from the faulty batteries. Dell has received three reports of damage to tabletops and desks as a result of the problem, it said in a joint news release today with the commission. About 22,000 of the batteries were sold in the U.S.

The recall affects certain Dell notebooks sold between Oct. 5, 2004, and Oct. 13, 2005. Customers who purchased the following models are advised to visit the Dell battery program Web site to check whether they need a new battery: Latitude models D410, D505, D510, D600, D610, D800 and D810; Inspiron models 510M, 600M, 6000, 8600, 9200, 9300 and the XPS Generation 2 notebook; and Precision M20 and M70 mobile workstations. The batteries were also sold individually and provided as part of service replacements, Dell said.

Customers can also call (866) 342-0011 toll free to determine whether their notebooks have the affected batteries. Users should have the identification number stamped on the back of the battery written down before they call or visit Dell's site, the company said.

Dell will replace all the affected batteries for free, it said.

As reported on Computer World.com
DECEMBER 16, 2005 (COMPUTERWORLD)

For more information on buying a new computer visit our website. Be sure to check out our computer directory A1-Computer specials, sales, coupons, etc for our recomended online resoruces to get the best deals on your next computer.

A1-Computers.net

Nikon's Focus Turns to Digital

2006-01-13T14:41:00.000-05:00

Nikon, the Japanese camera and precision equipment maker, said Thursday it will focus on digital photography and stop producing most of its film cameras, except for a few professional photographer products.

"Nikon will discontinue production of all lenses for large format cameras and enlarging lenses. This also applies to most of our film camera bodies, interchangeable manual focus lenses and related accessories," it said in a statement on its British website.

The company expects stock of analog products to sell out in retail distribution in the summer of 2006.

Nikon is one of the two main camera brands for professional photographers and the company said it will continue to produce and sell the F6, its flagship film model, as well as a number of manual interchangeable lenses.

In addition, the manual FM10 model will continue to be available outside Europe.

Around 95 percent of Nikon's British sales are now generated by digital camera products and the firm has chosen to focus management resources on the fiercely competitive digital market.

"Demand for products that offer advanced features and extra value is continuing to grow," Nikon said.

Nikon is one of the few success stories left in the digital camera industry, generating relatively healthy profit margins while rivals such as Olympus and Fuji Photo Film continue to lose money on the business.

Quarterly operating profit at Nikon, the world's second-largest maker of digital single lens reflex cameras after Canon, came to 14.4 billion yen ($126.3 million), up sharply from 5.0 billion yen a year earlier, while sales rose 6.6 percent to 185.5 billion yen.

As reported on Wired News

For more information on computer accessories visit our website. Be sure to check out our computer accessories directory near the bottom of the page for our recomended online resoruces to get the best deals on your next computer or accessories.

Apple Unveils Intel-Powered Mac Computer

2006-01-12T16:12:00.000-05:00

Apple unveils the new iMac with Intel Core Duo Processor. Starting at $1299. Shipping now.

At the Macworld Expo in San Francisco, Apple Computer Inc.'s CEO Steve Jobs introduced the new iMac desktop and the new Macbook Pro Intel-based powered computers, months ahead of schedule. Jobs and Intel CEO Paul Otellini unveiled the new jointly designed computers.

The new iMac desktop runs on a new Intel Core Duo processor and clocks in two to three times faster than the old iMac powered by IBM Power PC chips. The MacBook Pro will come in two models - one with a 1.67GHz Intel Core Duo processor, and the other with a 1.83GHz Intel Core Duo processor. It comes with a built-in webcam, a new MagSafe magnetic power connector that detaches easily when someone trips over the power cable, preventing any mishaps. Both models will have "Rosetta", a software application that allows all programs designed for Windows-based personal computers to run on the new Apples.

As Reported on The Manila Bulletin Online

For more information on buying a new computer visit our website. Be sure to check out our computer directory near the bottom of the page for our recomended online resoruces to get the best deals on your next computer.

Discount Dell Laptops

2006-01-12T01:29:00.000-05:00

Recent additions to Dell’s computer services division include low-cost used Dell laptop computers. These machines are generally sufficient for the Internet, e-mail, and word processing. One advantage is that, unlike other used Dell computers purchased from a friend or local computer shop, each computer stocked has received a complete inspection by certified computer technicians and has been restored and tested to like-new condition.

Dell guarantees that each used Dell GX110 computer purchased directly from them will be in perfect working condition. Dell supports this guarantee statement by providing each used Dell GX110 computer along with a 30-day replacement warranty. Also, a keyboard, mouse, and power cord are included with each purchase.

Each of these computer systems are formatted but are without an operating system but a preinstalled licensed copy of any Windows operating system is available at an additional cost. Dell also provides these in wholesale lots.

Most of these discount computers contain Pentium III - 866 MHz, 10GB+ hard drive, 128MB memory, integrated video, sound, LAN along with a keyboard, mouse, power cord.

The Dell Computer Corporation has also recently announced up to 10 percent price cuts on selected configurations of its LatitudeTM notebook. The Latitude notebooks provide manageability, reliability, and performance for business and institutional customers in networked environments.

Dell also provides excellent coupon codes that can help to save even more money on their already low priced computers, printers, monitors and accessories. In addition to Dell’s online coupon codes, they occasionally provide stackable coupons that allow the customers to use more than one coupon at a time. Stackable Dell coupons are marked to avoid confusion. Be sure to read the price points of the Dell coupons a number of times so as to qualify for an even greater discount if using the most appropriate coupon. Please study the rules and restrictions to check if they can be bought for the required purpose.

Refurbished Dell computers sold directly by Dell are excellent systems with good warranties. However, their prices tend to run a bit on the high side. Click on the button “REFURBISHED SYSTEMS” on their navigation bar to go to the Dell Outlet.

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

About the Author:
Discount Laptops provides detailed information about discount laptops, discount laptop batteries, and more. Discount Laptops is affiliated with Live Spy Cam

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

How To Easily Optimize Windows For Better Performance

2006-01-11T01:04:00.000-05:00

Do you have any of these computer problems?

“My system is too slow.”
“Look how much time it takes to install things.”
“My system slows down while playing games.”
“My software doesn’t function correctly.”

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(Please do these computer changes at your own risk, be sure you understand what you are doing before doing anything! A1-Computers assumes no responsibility.)

These are some very common statements uttered by PC owners. If you are having any of these problems here are some basic tips which can help you optimize the performance of your system by optimizing your operating system.

Windows system optimization is the most basic tool which can maintain the performance of your system. You might be spending hours trying to adjust your CMOS settings, RAM frequency and even the registry setting of the windows. Well its time, you used some windows optimization tools for better performance of your system.

Disk Errors
Disk errors are most commonly prevalent in the majority of computer systems. And this is the most overlooked problem, even by computer professionals. You often escape the disk error scanning which pops up after a bad shutdown. Well if you keep on escaping the disk error scanning, chances are that your hard disk will develop bad sectors. These bad sectors will initially hamper the proper functioning of your system and then can lead to a hard disk crash.

You should make sure that you always allow the disk error scanning option to run and correct any of the disk errors on your hard disk. Once a week you should also run the 'thorough scan' disk option which scans the hard disk for errors and corrects them. You should check all the partitions of your hard drive. You can access this option by right clicking on your hard drive (c: in my computer) partitions and select proporties and then select scan disk from the tools options.

Temporary File Cleanup
Cleaning the temp folder in your windows is essential to getting rid of all the unwanted internet files. These files are also the left-overs from the programs which you have uninstalled from the system or other unwanted files. If you do not delete the contents of this temporary folder, the files could gather up to 100+ MB of useless files. Also, you should delete these files because it would help to save the hard disk as well. To delete these files select the Run option and type %temp% and press O.K. After it displays all the files, select all and delete them.

If you browse the internet with the help of explorer, the temporary cache files should be deleted from the temporary internet folder as well.

Defragmentation
Files which are stored randomly on your system tend to slow down its performance. Your system looks for the fragments of randomly distributed files from everywhere and eventually become slow. To bring back all the files of all programs together, use the windows de-fragmentation tool. This tool joins all the loose files and optimizes the performance of your window.

The Paging File
The paging file is widely known as the windows virtual memory file. This file is used by the system when the windows run short of the actual RAM. Windows keeps on increasing and decreasing the size of the page file, which in itself is not very efficient. This affects the accessibility of fragmentation of your files. You should rather define your own paging size. Select the minimum and maximum size of the virtual memory to be the same. A preferable size is about the double the RAM you have.

By following these basic windows optimization methods you can maintain good performance of your system.

For more computer tips

About the author:
Matt Garrett

iPod Nano, Good Things Do Come In Small Packages

2006-01-01T00:59:00.000-05:00

By Lance Winslow

Get Free Shipping on Top-Rated iPod Gear

Have you seen the new ultra slim iPod Nano; this little cool gadget is a must have and it is not much bigger than a couple of business cards set end to end. When we all saw the first ads on the Intenet for the Innovative and High Tech iPod Nano on the various high tech gadget website, it was hard to believe, some thought is was not real at all, how could it be, where was the battery, where was the hard drive; how could this little contraption have that many songs? It seems now that most editors and personal tech writers are giving the iPod Nano the first prize for the 2005 greatest and most innovative gadgets.

The iPod Nano comes with two different options; the 2 GB version which holds about 500 songs and the 4 GB, which can hold about 1,000 songs. Of course it is not cheap, but some say it is less expensive than they thought it would be starting at $199.00 and the prices go up from there. How thin is The iPod Nano? Well it is about a thin as a number 2 pencil and as powerful as floor size juke box and then some.

It is three and a half inches by an inch and a half and weighs less than 2 ounces. The LCD screen is cool too, as it is very bright and about one and a half inches. Twelve solid hours of play for its battery life and it does have the new cool click wheel, which users love too, making it extremely easy to use. The iPod Nano has all the same ports and docking connectors like all the other iPods. And you know what? You need this in 2006.

Personalize your iPod shuffle with iTunes

For more information on computer accessories like iPods please visit our website. Be sure to check out our computer directory near the bottom of the page for our recomended online resoruces to get the best deals on your next computer accessories.

About tthe Author:
"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

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

Did You Get A New Computer for Christmas? You Should Recycle The Old One!

2005-12-27T02:05:00.000-05:00

Did Santa or a loved one give you a new computer or other electronics for christmas? So now what to do with the old one(s)? You recycle them ofcourse!

If you were fortunate enough to get a new computer, VCR, television under the tree, you may be left with the delimma of what to do with the old one.

A1-Computers encourages people to recycle their old electronics rather than throwing them away in the landfill. Did you know that many of the components can be manufactured into other things? Recycling companies can grind down computer parts and turn them into sheets of aluminum, car parts, and any number of other new products.

They will do a lot better being recycled than dumped in a landfill somewhere. The pieces in it, the metals and the wires especially in PC`s. They have things that can be reused and rebuilt. . .

To read the rest of this article on recycle your computer and to find out how you can recycle your computers visit the above link.

Apple Owns the iPod

2005-12-25T00:55:00.000-05:00

By Eddie Miller

MP3 Audio

Everyone knows that Apple owns the mp3 business. Their genius little iPod device has consumers worldwide spinning with each new release due to a plethora of features packed into pure quality. Due to this, it is only natural that analysts would make predictions as to what the next big move by Apple might be for its iPod line of products. However, this prediction definitely comes at a surprise.

Munster, a leading analyst, said that within five years, Apple could release an iPod with one terabyte of storage - that's almost 17 times the maximum amount of iPod storage Apple currently offers. Munster realistically images an iPod device that can store literally hundreds of full length, high quality videos on top of songs and pictures. A price range for this beast? It is currently predicted to be around $500.

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Other speculatory items include things such as an iPhone, which would basically be an iPod cell phone. Indeed, this option is a very feasible one, one that Apple is expected to take due to its interest in expanding into the mobile phone market. More Mac programs expanding the use of the iPod and other peripherals for it are also expected.

Needless to say, the future of the iPod looks like a bright one indeed. There is really only one way that it appears it can head from here, up.

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For more information on computer accessories visit our website. Be sure to check out our computer accessories directory near the bottom of the page for our recomended online resoruces to get the best deals on your next computer and accessories.

About the author:
UK MP3 are the UK's foremost MP3 player shop and review site. We write accurate, unbiased reviews of all the MP3 players we stock, and have a large number of customer reviews
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Miller

The Best Rated Laptops Of The Year

2005-12-22T23:31:00.000-05:00

By Garry Allen

The best rated laptop award changes not only from year to year, but it can and does change just as quickly from month to month.

Heck, with the major players out there like Dell, IBM, Compaq and HP just to name a few, competition is absolutely fierce!

But one thing is for sure.

This years best rated laptops all seem to have one thing in common. They are all called Apples!

Apple has taken this honor from several leading computing and electronics magazines, and the trend in sales seem to suggest that consumers are feeling the same way about them, as well.

Laptops such as the apple powerbook and ibook have helped apple stand tall among the major players in the computing world.

In 2004 alone, apple announced that it had an overall net income growth of 300 percent. That equals to a profit of $295 million in the last quarter. And if you are a stock holder that certainly must put a smile on your face. I know it does for me, and a number of my friends.

Single computer model sales are also showing the same trend. For instance, the ipod desktop version disappeared off the shelves at the rate of 4.5 million per year. The imac tripled its sales!

Apples share of the international market may still be lagging behind, though. Dell still has top honors with 18 percent of the world market. HP comes in a close second with 16 percent. And in a distant third, IBM brings in 6 percent of the share.

Apple can put a dent in those figures though with the press they have been getting lately. In fact, apple won the 2004 Readers Choice award for the brand with the most impact on an international scale. It had beat out Google, which had been the winner of this award for two years running.

No matter what awards for best rated laptops or what percentages of the world market that apple acquires over the next few years, you can be rest assured that apple will continue to put out the innovative products that they are known for.

Just take a look at the software that is featured on apples laptops and desktop computers. Such admiration of application design as iphoto and itunes make apple so popular just because these programs are so useful and yet they are so easy to use.

See if you can say that about the software that comes standard with most other mp3 players or digital cameras. It's this powerful but symplistic design that makes apples some of the best rated laptops available today.

One other point I would like to make. In 2006, we will see Apples with intel chips instead of the current IBM chips. Will this improve the performance of the apple laptops and computers, I don't think so, at least not right away. But it will possibly help apple to grow and expand in the market.

In the future, I believe you will see vast improvements in performance with this change making apple computers and laptops even better than what's available today.

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.

Get free information, articles and reviews for all your computing needs at http://www.best-rated-laptops-and-computers.info.

5 Things You Can Do With Flash Memory

2005-12-22T01:12:00.000-05:00

Got flash memory cards? They aren’t only for your digital camera. Probably the coolest yet overlooked ways to use your flash memory card is as floppy drive replacement. Think about it, a flash memory card is really a form of storage disk.

Most notebook computers today don’t come with a floppy drive anymore. I’ve personally been in situations where I needed to share a file with someone and haven’t been able to because they handed me a floppy disk.

If you already own a card or a digital camera, chances are you already have the necessary equipment to read the card and transfer files to and from them. If you don’t it’s easy. Get yourself a flash memory card reader – they are so inexpensive these days you can even pick one up free after rebate if you watch the deals. Hookup it up to your computer and pop in the card. It will show up on your computer as a new drive. When you’re ready to save data to it, just drag and drop. It’s no different than a regular floppy or hard drive. Once you see in this light there is a whole bunch of things you can use your flash memory card for and here are 5 ideas for you.

1. Use as a greeting card: Hey there’s always an occasion around the corner. If you’re already thinking of sending a CD greeting card – use your flash memory card instead. With the large storage sizes you can afford to have multimedia in your ecards too and when that person gets tired of it, the card itself is a gift for their computing convenience. As if that wasn’t enough, you can probably get by with less postage too.

2. Use as media storage: One of the best things about flash memory cards is how much its small physical size can pack in. With memory sizes up to several Gigabytes, you could use it to store your media like video clips, picture clips, audio files and just about any downloadable content. Its small size also makes it highly portable without taking up valuable space on your notebook computer hard drive.

3. Sharing files or transferring files from one computer to another: If you need to do this often, here’s a quick tip. Carry with you a USB card reader. Many of them are very compact and no heavier than your cell phone. Doing this has advantages over carrying a flash memory drive. Flash memory cards are smaller and a tiny catalog of cards can offer you much more memory than a flash drive. Better carry two things than a bunch of drives.

4. Build yourself an ebook library: Are you a book worm? One tiny flash memory card can store a lot of ebooks since most text based files are smaller than media files. You can store whole libraries of ebooks in various topics either on one card or dedicate one for each topic you are interested in. Again, they are easy to share and very portable – you’ll never run out of reading material again even when on the road.

5. Run small software from it: Yes, there are tiny software that don’t need to be installed and can run from the card itself. This is particularly helpful when you’re using someone else’s computer. Now you can carry your software with you too.

Now that you know – gather up those flash memory cards and start using them. Just because your new camera isn’t compatible with it doesn’t mean you should let it go to waste and the best part is, you won’t have to worry about obsolete cards anymore.

Lynn Chan simplifies computing and computer care issues for new notebook computer owners. Start protecting your investment, with a free notebook computer care tutorial
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lynn_Chan

How to Refill Your Ink Cartridge and Recycle It

2005-12-21T00:53:00.000-05:00

We should all be recycleing our ink cartridges in one way or another for the earth's sake, also for our own health! A1-Computers--

The best way to re-fill an ink cartridge is to buy an ink re-filling kit. This can be bought from any online store selling ink cartridges. Along with this kit you would be provided with the necessary tools along with a set of instructions on how to go about filling-the-empty-ink-cartridge.

Here are a few simple instructions that could be followed to refill your cartridge and it’s not very complicated.

1. Draw the ink of any one colour with the help of the syringe provided in the re-fill kit. Ideally, this should be done over the sink. This is to make sure that even if some of it spills over no documents, clothes etc. gets ruined. The amount of ink each printer holds usually varies depending upon its manufacturers. For Example, in most Epson printers the black cartridge holds about 17ml of ink and the colour cartridges hold approximately 8ml. Please refer to the instructions on your refill kit to check how much ink should be injected into the cartridge.

2. A small hole needs to be made on top of the cartridge (Could be done with a ball point pen), one for each colour chamber. The hole should be at the top of the cartridge near the label. The needle should be pushed into the hole and the ink injected slowly. If the ink is not injected slowly, it could result in foaming and air bubbles could be formed. If this happens, the re-filled cartridge might not be able to print.

Caution: If this happens, hold the cartridge over a waste paper basket upside down and swing upwards and stop suddenly. This could rectify the problem. If it doesn’t then you could clean the ink heads with cleaner or try soaking the heads. This could remove any dry ink that is clogging the ink heads and allow the ink to flow freely again.

3. The re-fill holes need not be sealed, as there are already breather holes on top of the cartridge.

4. Any ink that is left over in the syringe can be returned to the bottle. The syringe needs to be cleaned with water and dried properly before using it for another colour. It might be handy to use different syringes for different colours.

5. Once the refilled cartridge is placed back in the printer, run the cleaning cycle 1 to 3 times. If there is any gap in printing, the cycle could be run a few more times till the problem is rectified.

Before placing the refilled cartridge back into the printer, you could hold it upside down just to make sure ink is not dripping out of the sponge.

Here are a few things that must be kept in mind before re-filling a cartridge

1. The cartridge needs to be refilled before it is completely empty. If this is not done, the cartridge can dry out completely and get clogged.

2. It might be a good idea to place the refilled cartridge into the printer and leave it alone overnight so that the pressure in the cartridge can stabilize.

3. While making the holes at the top of the cartridge, to inject ink, please make sure you do not hit it too hard or it might crack open the cartridge and make it worthless. It might also make a hairline crack and allow some air in, which in turn would dry the ink out prematurely.

4. Some of the newer models of printers have a green chip in their cartridges. Looking at the cartridge closely one can spot this chip. They are usually known as “Intellidge” cartridges. The chip keeps track of the ink levels in the cartridge and notifies the computer when the ink levels are low. A resetting chip can be used to reset the memory on the chip. With the help of this chip, the printer recognizes the cartridge as being full and allows the refilled cartridge to print.

A refill kit is considerably cheaper than a new cartridge and obviously promises more than just one re-fill. It is therefore, easier on the pocket, keeps us from adding more useless plastic to the environment and increases the life of a cartridge.

A re-fill kit typically contains:

1. Bottles of Ink
2. A bottle of cleaning solution
3. A 2 part syringe
4. A users manual

Something to look out for before buying refilled cartridges

There are some cartridges sold with the “Single Use Only” tag. It is illegal to refill these cartridges with any other ink. This is usually found in Lexmark cartridges. If these cartridges are sent for refilling or refilled cartridges are bought, technically one could face legal charges for doing so. The cartridges that are not marked “Single Use Only” usually come at a higher price.

For such cartridges Lexmark offers a 20% reduction in price if the customer agrees to send the cartridges back to Lexmark.

This does not mean that using refilled cartridges is illegal in any way. All one needs to watch out for is whether the maker has prevented a third party refilling for their own cartridges. This can be understood easily by looking out for any labels such as “Single Use Only”. If there is no such obvious label, it is absolutely all right to go ahead with refilling the empty ink cartridges.

For more information on computer accessories visit our website and surf around this blog.

John Sollars is the managing director of Solar Electronics, which are both ink and pc peripheral suppliers based in Shropshire, UK. To access a comprehensive online shop of original and re-manufactured ink cartridges please visit http://www.mega-office.co.uk

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

Build Your Own Computer

2005-12-20T01:07:00.000-05:00

If I can do it so can you!

Im eighty-one years old and I bought my first computer six years ago. When I bought it I hardly knew how to turn it on. I consider myself still a Newbie as I have barely scratched the surface of computer technology. I have succesfully built about a dozen computers for family friends and myself. I even sold a couple of them.

Building a computer doesnt require a high degree of technical skill, however it does require a little mechanical aptitude. Building may not be the proper term, assembling would be more appropriate. Thats actually what you do, you assemle the right components then install an operating system which is the only phase of the project that requires any technical ability.

Building your own computer has several advantages, for one you can save some money. But do not get the idea that you can sell them at a profit. Theres too much competition at the low end. All the major manufacturers have budget models, most of which you can buy with substantial rebates and good warrantees You have a number of options, you can build from scratch or you can build from a barebones kit. I recommend the latter for your first attempt. You also have the choice of using all new components or using some recycled parts.

If you have a reasonably up to date PC that died ther are probably a number of parts that you can re-use, and you can buy a lot of good used components from eBay and other online sources. Refurbished computer parts are a good option.

The first thing you have to do is determine your requirements. If you're going to just surf the Internet, do e-mail and a bit of printing, go for the cheapest you can buy. You will still have plenty of capacity for simple tasks.

Next you have to decide whether to go with a barebones kit or do a complete build. Kits are recommended because generally that is the most economical way to go, and its definitely easier. Installing a mother- board can get dicey for the uninitiated. There are a lot of little wires to connect that can give you greif if they are not in the right place.

To read the rest of this article please click over to build your own computer on our website.

For all of A1-Computers Recomended computer sales-specials-coupons check out this page.

Playing to Win - how to find the Best Gaming Laptop

2005-12-17T02:04:00.000-05:00

Finding the best gaming laptop can be very frustrating at times. In fact, finding the best of any computer related products can be frustrating because the technology field is so fast paced.

One thing is for sure that whatever is top of the line today most assuredly will not be in the top in a couple of months.

As I said, the pace of technology is simply astounding. And it can also get pretty frustrating if you just bought what you thought was the king of gaming notebooks, only to have a new king appear on the market a few weeks later.

This is why it may be better to consider looking for certain qualities in a gaming computer, rather than a specific brand or model.

Models get switched out every so often.

Brands get hyped by the reporters and computer magazines one issue, only to have their reputations bashed in the next.

Instead, what I recommend is to hunt for consistent quality across the board instead of just a flash in the pixilated pan.

No matter what brand or model your considering, the best gaming laptop must first and foremost come with Intel Centrino mobile technology.

First off, these new chipsets make sure that your notebook doesn’t burn through its battery after only a few rounds of Doom III. And secondly, this mobile technology maximizes the graphic output, making images and movement appear smooth and crisp, not choppy and blurred.

Of course, to really appreciate these high-grade visuals, you need a large, potentially wide screen display. In the area of 14 or 15 inches, with wide angles and crystal clear imaging.

The extra display size may make your laptop a bit more unwieldy, but you’re there to play the computer, not lug it around.

Finally, to maximize your web gaming, you should get a laptop with the finest in wireless technology, such as Bluetooth and Wi Fi connectivity. These will add the mobile to your mobile gaming, allowing you to challenge the competition in San Diego, California and San Juan, Costa Rica.

Now when your comparing prices and models, it goes with out saying that you should maximize your hard drive space, games and graphics need alot of space. Also remember to maximize RAM memory, and processor speed as well. For all of these components are literally the backbone of any computer system, let alone the best gaming laptop.

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.

Keep up to date with the latest information, tips, and reviews on the Best Rated laptop computers.

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

Quick Guide to Wireless Networking

2005-12-16T00:40:00.000-05:00

By Gary Hendricks

1. Essential Equipment
Right, let's move right along. The first thing to do in setting up a wireless home network is to get the correct equipment. These are the things you need:

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Wireless home networking kit
This is your basic equipment for the network. Typically, these home networking kits come with a firewalled wireless router (e.g. the immensely popular Linksys WRT54G). Some also bundle a wireless PC card for connecting laptops to the network, or a wireless USB adapter for connecting desktop PCs.

Windows installation CDs
These are required sometimes during installation of drivers, so its handy to have them around first.

Ethernet cables
These are required if you intend to mix wired PCs into a wireless network. For example, you can connect an Ethernet cable between the wireless router and a desktop PC.

2. Install the Wireless Router
Install the wireless router according to the manufacturer's instructions. Modern wireless home networking kits make this really easy. Just connect the wireless router to power supply, connect the wireless PC card to your laptop, or USB adapter (or Ethernet cable) to the desktop PC. Then insert the installation CD into one PC and start the software installation process.

As part of the setup process, you usually need to surf to a local IP address, e.g. 192.168.0.1 to setup basic parameters for the router. Most of the options can be left as default, with the exception of SSID (Service Set Identifier) and encryption settings, which are explained below.

3. Choose the Service Set Identifier
Wireless networks require a network identification code called the Service Set Identifier (SSID). When connecting devices to the network, this is the name you use to specify which network you're connecting to. Make sure you set up this parameter using the router setup page or utility.

4. Encrypt Your Wireless Network
Remember an intruder can easily gain access to an unencrypted network without too much trouble. Wireless networks these days usually use the WEP standard to set up encryption. To configure this, go to your router setup page or utility and enter the WEP security key (usually its a 128 bit hexdecimal text entry you need to key in).

Note this WEP key down. Now, go to each PC in your network. Open up the Control Panel -> Network Connections and select your wireless network connection. You need to enter the WEP key for the connection - the manufacturer's should have instructions on how to do this.

5. Sharing the Printer
If you intend to share a printer (say from your desktop), then go to your desktop, go to Control Panel and select Printers. Right-click your printer icon, and choose Properties. If there's a Shared tab in the dialog box that appears, click the tab and make sure the share option is selected.

Conclusion
Guess what? That's it! Setting up a wireless network is as simple as that. You can now easily check email, share files, or print documents from the comfort of your living room, garage or front porch! So what are you waiting for? Get busy and set up that wireless network now!

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.

Gary Hendricks runs a hobby site on building computers. Visit his website at Build-Your-Own-Computers.com for tips and tricks on assembling a PC, as well as buying good computer components.

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

How To Take Care Of Your Laptop

2005-12-09T16:37:00.000-05:00

Here are a few do's and don't's if you are unsure of how to take care of your new gizmo (laptop):

a. Do not put it on unstable work surfaces.

b. Do not expose it to any kind of moisture, extreme temperatures, strong electrical or magnetic fields or dirt or dusty environment.

c. Do not touch or press the display panel.

d. Before cleaning, disconnect first the AC power and remove the battery pack.

e. Before transporting it, turn it off and detach all external peripherals. This is to prevent the connectors from getting damaged.

5. Always always read the instruction books that come with your new machine. It will provide you with more tips to keep your hardware and your software operating perfectly!

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.

David Arnold Livingston is an entrepreneur with many years of successful business experience. For business and personal laptop computer resources, he recommends you visit:
Laptop Unlimited

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

Buying Guide for Laptops, Personal Computers, And Notebooks

2005-12-09T16:24:00.000-05:00

Are you an executive always scurrying with your suitcase during business trips? A student always on the go trying to finish as many projects as possible to gain extra credits? Or a businessperson always meeting up with your biz partners to explore more business opportunities?

Are you any of those mentioned category of people? If so, chances are, you already are carrying what has come to be the busy person's best friend - a laptop a.k.a. a portable Personal computer. Or you're just planning to get one. If so, take some time to digest this guide on which laptop is for you and how to take care of it.

Here are the various kinds of laptops and their specifications:

1. Ultralights

As monikered, these are the lightest of all the laptops. Also known as an ultraportable or sub-notebook, if you travel a lot, you may consider acquiring this kind of laptop since it only weighs approximately 4 pounds. One drawback that an ultralight has is its not being able to contain an internal CD drive or a network card since it has to maintain its weight. This means you have to bring with you an external CD drive and port replicator. Also, ultralights come with heftier price tags compared with other kinds of laptops.

2. Notebooks

The basics of the laptop kingdom belong to the notebook kind. This type is less heavy though, weighing only about 4 to 6 pounds. Notebooks are a bit heavier than the ultralight but they offer more features. They are made with a large opening on the side for a CD drive or extra battery.

3. Standards

Like notebooks, these are considered the same as regular laptops. But they are a lot heavier than the notebooks weighing in at 6 to 8 pounds. Cost-effectiveness-wise, standards are known to give you the best value for your moolah. Big laptop manufacturers often offer discounts on this kind of laptops because of their popularity and user-friendliness.

4. Extra Large

These laptops weigh between 8 and 10 pounds. Their screen measures at least 17 inches. Living up to its name, it also has a larger keyboard compared to a standard laptop. It is for those who despise the hassle of a small keyboard. If you don't mind its weight or you really are not that much of a traveler, this kind of laptop might be the one for you. You only have to beware of its heftier price tag.

Depending on your personal preference, you might consider other factors such as the brand name, in choosing which laptop to purchase.

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 or notebook.

David Arnold Livingston is an entrepreneur with many years of successful business experience. For business and personal laptop computer resources, he recommends you visit: Laptop Unlimited

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

Vist us tomarrow for the second half of this article titled: Do's and don't's if you are unsure of how to take care of your new laptop computer

Make the World a Better Place with your Empty Ink Cartridges

2005-12-09T16:05:00.000-05:00

One small change or act can change the world! Recycle ink cartridges A1-Computers--

Did you know that your empty ink cartridge can help you earn some money or fund your favorite charity simply by not throwing it away!

Very often we do not know what to do with the empty cartridges and they invariably find their way to the trashcan. Given these cartridges are made of plastic, they are not biodegradable and end up polluting the environment in various ways.

A recent study done by a US based agency the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has found that 67% of the empty cartridges are sent to landfills, 15% are burnt to ashes and a mere 18% are recycled.

If the percentages don’t look intimidating enough, here are some actual figures, every year over 400 million cartridges with a combined weight of 200 million pounds are dumped into landfills.

Recycling these cartridges is a far more useful option. Here are a few benefits in recycling cartridges can do:

1/ Help us reduce our ink bills, as recycled ink cartridges are a lot cheaper compared to new ones.

2/ This way we can help reduce pollution and reduce the amount of plastic that goes into polluting the earth.

3/ We can send them over to companies that assist charities with the profits.

Some institutions generate money by recycling cartridges

Oxfam for example can help raise money from empty ink cartridges. Visit http://www.oxfam.org.uk/what_you_can_do/recycle/toner.htm and you can read both about the work Oxfam undertakes as well as how they fund charitable work using the money generated from cartridges.

Refilling Cartridges

Refilling cartridges is good option. The replacement cartridges must be made to the exact specifications and standards of the manufacturer and not simply refilled. Just because they come cheap, you don’t want them to ruin your print quality and risk ink leakage.

Refill kits are available and they are typically very easy to use. If this option is availed they can save you up to 70 percent on the purchase cost. They can be purchased online from sites that sell ink cartridges.

A refill cartridge typically contains the component parts, ink, syringes and clips, to refill the empty cartridge with new ink. Instructions are provided with the kits to fill the cartridges. This is certainly the best way to improve the life of a cartridge as you can take of it yourself without having to pass it around.

If you would rather not refill the cartridges yourself, they can be bought from another supplier but here is a list of things you want to keep in mind while doing that.

1/ The yield needs to be checked - Which means, the estimated number of pages one cartridge can print.

2/ Density of the remanufactured cartridge - The density should be between 1.3 and 1.6. This number is derived after running a test on a number of cartridges, as testing just one will not present the accurate density.

3/ Inspection and replacement of components - The drum, wiper blade and the drum roller are the key components. They need to be checked before making a purchase.

4/ Each model of a printer uses a different toner - If the same toner is used for all the cartridges it could affect the yield without affecting the printing quality. This means, lesser number of pages printed per cartridge and hence higher cost per page.

5/ The label - Once the cartridge is remanufactured the label needs to be replaced by the supplier and the label should indicate which machine the cartridge goes into. If the label is not removed, it could be considered as copyright infringement.

6/ Check with the supplier if they would fix your printer if the ink bought from them causes damage to your printer. This in some cases would be an indication about the quality of ink inside the cartridges.

Potential problems that incorrectly filled cartridges can cause

Sponge filled cartridges refusing to print after re-filling. Here, the sponge is used so that it holds back the ink and it does not flow freely into the print head. The problem could arise from air bubbles trapped inside the layer of ink. This is known as a vapor lock situation. Precautions need to be taken so that this does not happen. While filling the cartridge, the syringe needs to be plunged deep into the cartridge and ink pushed out slowly till it appears on top of the sponge.

If the problem has already occurred, then try holding the cartridge with the print head pointing down on top of a waste paper basket and swing it upwards and stop suddenly. If ink appears on top of the print head, the problem is probably fixed.

The refilled cartridge does not print but a new one does

Check for vapor locking first. If that is the problem then the method described above can rectify the problem.

If this does not work, it could mean the print head or the venting path is blacked. If something is covering the venting path, try removing it. Please be careful not to increase the size of the venting path.

If it still does not work, then it possibly means that the print head openings are blocked. In this case there is not much you can do given the regular means available. However, you can try and scrub it with cotton dipped in distilled water or holding it over steam for not more than a minute. This does not happen regularly but if it does, you can refer to the printer manual and follow the instructions to clean the printer head.

Useful information

It is frequently asked if the warranty on a printer would be considered void if refilled cartridges are used. The answer is technically NO. Often the manufacturer will encourage purchase of branded cartridges and discourages the refilling but that is largely for commercial reasons. Otherwise it is perfectly all right to use refilled cartridges.

For more information on printers, ink, or other computer accessories visit our website (be sure to check out our computer accessories directory for our recomended resourses and the best deals on the internet. Also, browse around this blog for lots of great computer related information from many authors.

About the Author
John Sollars is the managing director of Solar Electronics, suppliers of inkjet cartridges and pc peripherals based in the UK. To access a comprehensive online shop of original and re-manufactured printer inks please visit http://www.mega-office.co.uk

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

Tips for Getting the Most Life Out of Your Laptop Battery

2005-12-05T01:24:00.000-05:00

As more and more people are becoming part of the mobile workforce and using laptop or tablet PC’s battery life is often a primary concern. Today’s portable computers use lithium-ion batteries instead of older style nickel-cadmium power sources. In addition to being able to hold a greater charge, lithium is also very light weight, another important concern for portable computers.

When you are purchasing your computer investigate if a long-life battery is available. While it will add to the cost it can give up to double the usage of a normal battery. To get the most usage out of your battery you’ll need to understand a little bit about how batteries work. Each battery has a limited number of charge cycles. If your battery lasts for 4 hours and on the first day you use it for 2 hours and then recharge it fully and the next day you use it for 2 hours again and then fully recharge it again, you will have completed one charge cycle. Each battery has a limited number of charge cycles before it starts losing it’s the charge it can hold.

If you aren’t using your wireless connection to connect to the internet or network turn off the wireless connection it will extend the life of your battery. The same holds true for Bluetooth connections. Another way to extend your battery life is to lower the brightness of your monitor. Lastly bear in mind that using your portable computer to play a DVD movie uses more power than using a spreadsheet.

If you find that you are often using the computer with the battery at full charge while connected to the main power supply you may want to remove the battery. Keeping the battery fully charged while it’s at a high temperature, which is typical of conditions of a laptop that is always plugged into the main power supply, will dramatically shorten its lifespan. Discharging the battery regularly is also conducive to long battery life. Under optimal conditions laptop batteries will last 24 to 36 months, under less than optimal conditions you may shorten the lifespan down to 12 to 18 months.

To help keep your battery operating at optimal conditions try to fully discharge it once a month. Many people find it helpful to set a calendar reminder so they don’t forget. If you find your battery lasts less than 60 minutes, try fully discharging it several days in a row. Just leave your computer on overnight with no applications running. Be sure to turn off any alarm or lower power warnings that are associated with your power settings. If this fails to work you will need to replace the battery.

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.

© Copyright TabletPC.6LN.com, All Rights Reserved.
Eve Larson is the senior author for Tablet PC News and Reviews http://tabletpc.6ln.com where she provides information that help you get the most out mobile computing platforms.

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

Maybe You Already Have Wireless and Don't Know It?

2005-12-05T01:21:00.000-05:00

More and more laptops and desktop computers are coming pre-equipped with wireless networking devices -- it's so cheap that they might as well put it in, to have another thing to list in the system specifications. It is easy to tell if a desktop computer has wireless enabled. Have a look at the rear panel for a small antenna. If its there then you have wireless. Laptops a much more difficult to diagnose.

If you're anything like me, though, you probably don't even know how much memory your computers have, never mind whether any of them came wireless-enabled. When you don't know what wireless networking is, it's easy to ignore it in a computer's specifications, and never take the time to set it up and get it working. Here are some things to look for if you want to check your computer's wireless capabilities.

Intel Centrino

If your laptop came with something called 'Intel Centrino mobile technology', then it's good news for you! Computer manufacturers seem a little bad at explaining what this technology is or does, but it basically means that your laptop has wireless networking built right in, without you needing to do a thing. It is a marketing name for a combination of the Intel Pentium M processor and Intel's Pro/Wireless card.

Your computer should have a 'Centrino' sticker on it somewhere if it is Centrino enabled. If you think you might have taken the sticker off, you can check the name of your processor by right clicking the My Computer icon on your desktop (or in the Start Menu) and choosing Properties from the menu that appears. Take a look at what it says after the word 'Computer' on this screen.

If you're interested, Centrino technology also increases battery life and allows computers to be smaller. Don't worry, though, if you didn't buy a Centrino laptop -- as long as your laptop has a free card slot, installing wireless on it will be no trouble.

Desktop Computers

If you're not sure whether your desktop computer has a wireless connection, the easiest thing to do is to turn it around and look at it. If a wireless connection is present, you should usually be able to see a small aerial sticking out of the back of the computer, towards the bottom.

If there's nothing there, then it's still possible that you have a wireless device in the computer, especially if you bought it recently and you think you do. It's not a good idea to try to open up your computer just to check something, though, so you should probably try and figure it out using Windows.

Checking in Windows

Instead of fiddling around with your computer hardware to see what you've got, you can check easily enough using Windows' Device Manager. To use it, right click My Computer, and choose Manage from that menu. Now click Device Manager.

You should see a list of all the different kinds of things you can install on your computer. Take a look under 'Network adapters'. Ignore anything that says '10/100' or 'Ethernet' -- they're normal network connections, but not wireless ones. If there's anything else there, it could be a wireless device.

If you think you have a wireless device, but it has a yellow warning sign next to its name in the Device Manager, you should take a look at it to see what's wrong by double clicking its name. Windows should tell you why the device is not working at the moment, and may suggest that you go through its troubleshooter program. Do that before you do anything else.

If it turns out to be a driver problem, you should insert the drivers CD that came with your computer. Of course, as is always the way, you probably won't be able to find that CD -- but don't worry, you should be able to find drivers online. First, you should look on the website of the computer's manufacturer, and then you should try searching for the name that the wireless device had in Device Manager.

Of course, you might find after all this that you don't have a wireless device after all. Hard luck. It's better to figure that out now than to buy wireless equipment and then realise you had some already, though, isn't it? Of course, even if you did find a wireless device in one of your computers, you probably still need more. Don't worry either way -- they're getting cheaper all the time!

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.

Researched, and Written by Tony Fitz of EntireWeb
Paid Search Engine Inclusion for just $24 / Year.

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

How To Find The Ultimate Gaming Laptop!

2005-12-05T01:03:00.000-05:00

Are you a big gamer? Love them laptotp games? Well read on to see the best bet for your next gaming laptop purchase. A1-Computers--

If you are looking to buy the best gaming laptop, it’s best to do your homework. Because the rate at which technology can change, could leave you extremely frustrated if you just purchased what you thought was the ultimate of gaming notebooks, only to see a superior one appear a month later.

That’s why it may be better to consider looking for certain qualities in a gaming computer, rather than a particular brand or model. Models get changed every so often. Brands get hyped up by the media and computer magazines, only to have their reputations slated in the next issue. Instead, hunt for reliable quality across the board.

Recently, no matter what brand or model it is, the best gaming laptop must first and foremost come with Intel Centrino mobile technology. These new chipsets make sure that your notebook doesn’t burn through its battery after only a few rounds of Doom III. All the while, this mobile technology maximizes the graphic output, making images and movement appear smooth and crisp, not broken up and fuzzy.

Of course, to accurately understand these high-grade visuals, you need a large, potentially wide screen, display. Shoot for upwards of 14 or 15 inches, with wide angles and crystal clear imaging. The additional display size may make your laptop a bit more cumbersome, but you’re there to have fun with the computer, not carry it around.

Of course, to maximize Web gaming, you should shoot for a laptop with the finest in wireless technology, such as Bluetooth and Wi Fi connectivity. These will add the mobile to your mobile gaming, allowing you to challenge the competition in San Diego, California and San Juan, Costa Rica.

When conducting your research online or your local store for a new laptop, you should be looking for the maximum hard drive space, lots of RAM memory and processor speed. After all, these components are what create the best gaming laptop.

For more information and tips on laptops visit our website and surf around this blog.

For Laptops online Please visit us at http://www.simplylaptopsonline.com

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

Who Needs a Firewall?

2005-12-04T02:51:00.000-05:00

Firewall, adware, spyware, what is a internet surfer to do? A1-Computers--

By Shanna Riley

You do! Read more to find out what a firewall is, how it can keep you safe, and how to get one.

A Firewall is, actually, pretty much the same as its non-tech definition. A firewall, in building construction, is set up to contain or prevent fire from traveling from one side of the wall to the other - an extra bit of protection, if you will. A firewall on your pc does, essentially, the same thing.

Seven Design Avenue describes a firewall this way:

A firewall is a safeguard utilized by many Local Area Networks (LANs) or Wide Area Networks (WANs) to protect the network from unauthorized access from the outside. They are basically gates that verify the users before they leave or enter the network by way of a User ID, Password or IP address.

bytown internet explains it another way:

A Firewall is a system which limits network access between two or more networks. Normally, a Firewall is deployed between a trusted, protected private network and an untrusted public network. For example, the trusted network might be a corporate network (ie: Queens University), and the public network might be the Internet. A Firewall might grant or revoke access based on user Authentication, source and destination network addresses, network protocol, time of day, network service or any combination of these. These settings are normally controlled by the Network Administrator.

So how can a firewall help you - the average, home user?

By giving an extra level of blocking protection against spam, viruses and other malware.

Those lucky enough to be running WinXP SP2 (that's Windows XP, Service Pack 2) already have a built-in firewall that they can use. All they have to do is turn it on. Here's how to make sure you have SP2 and your firewall turned on:

How do I know if I'm running Windows XP? Easy enough. On your Desktop, right-click once on My Computer and choose "Properties". The little window that pops up should tell you which operating system you are running. If not, you can also open My Computer and choose Help: About Windows from the taskbar at the top of the window.

Ok, I'm running WinXP - how do I know if I have Service Pack 2? The same way we just went through! Both of the ways listed above will tell you if you are running Service Pack 2 (or sp2).

Great! How do I make sure my firewall is turned on? First off, go into your Control Panel (usually found on the Start menu). Find the "Security Center" and open it up. You should see the firewall as one of the security features offered - simply make sure it's switched to "On".

I don't have Windows XP or Service Pack 2 and I have no plans to upgrade any time soon. That isn't a problem. There are other legitimate, and trustworthy firewall sites on the Internet (of course, there are some of the other kind, too!). Just poke around and Google "firewall program".

MyNetProtector.com
Free Scan!

For more computer tips visit our web-site or surf around this blog.

From homecomputersafety.com

Professional i.t. tech & geeky-girl gamer who feels her duty to warn the average user about the dangers of the Internet. Feel free to use, please link back to http://www.homecomputersafety.com/

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

Broadband Internet - You got it, now what?

2005-11-30T00:30:00.000-05:00

You did it! You've decided to leave dial-up behind for the speed of broadband Internet access. So, what are you going to do with all that speed now?

Sign Up for Boingo Wireless and Get Your Second Month FREE!

You're really in a great position to fully enjoy all the web and Internet have to offer. Gone are the days when you're waiting for a dial-up signal (remember all the busy signals you used to get on dial-up?) Gone are the long delays waiting for a page to load or in downloading those email attachments.

Access time, page loads and downloading email attachments are just the beginning. The benefits of broadband access far exceed that. You're free to surf where ever and what ever you can imagine. Searches become so fast there's not a topic anyone can thrown at you that you won't be able to use your favorite search engine to lookup information on.

Online bill pay, shopping, gaming, streaming audio, video, uploads, downloads, research, chats, forums, instant messaging, blogs, the list goes on. Not sure what any of those terms mean? Go to your favorite search engine and type the word or phrase in and find out! The search engines are getting smarter and smarter and the result pages are more accurate today than they have ever been.

Don't worry about online time. You may have had dial-up access that limited your online experience by placing time limits on you. After your limit was up, the cost per minute could get very expensive.

Looking to learn HTML, XML or a programming language? There are free tutorials all over the internet just waiting for you.

Surfing the internet and the web can keep you busy enough. With broadband internet access, your possibilities don't stop there. You can setup a home network and run more than one computer on your connection at a time! No more fighting over who gets how much time online! Don't have a second computer (or need one) at home? No problem. You also have the option of going wireless! (Ok, you could go wireless with more than one computer as well!) Wireless really breaks down the walls! (Literally!) My primary computer at home is a laptop and I love the freedom to be anywhere in my home and be online! No more wires!

Now, with your broadband internet service you're surfing better than ever. You may have decided to hook up a home network. You might even consider VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) for your phone service and actually leverage the cost of broadband internet service by saving money on your monthly phone bills!

So many more possibilities await you.

If you're not yet using broadband, find out what's available in your area. Find out which vendors are offering what specials. Learn a bit about the technology, get your quote for service, get your service ordered and installed and start surfing the way it was meant to be!

For more information on computer accessories visit A1-Computers

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

About The Author: Provided by FullService Broadband Provider

Provider of unbiased, informative information on broadband technology. Residential, business, VoIP and much more. Visit us today at: http://www.fullservice-broadband-provider.com

5 Things You Can Do With Flash Memory

2005-11-28T01:01:00.000-05:00

Got flash memory cards? They aren't only for your digital camera. Probably the coolest yet overlooked ways to use your flash memory card is as floppy drive replacement. Think about it, a flash memory card is really a form of storage disk.

Most notebook computers today don't come with a floppy drive anymore. I've personally been in situations where I needed to share a file with someone and haven't been able to because they handed me a floppy disk.

If you already own a card or a digital camera, chances are you already have the necessary equipment to read the card and transfer files to and from them. If you don't it's easy. Get yourself a flash memory card reader - they are so inexpensive these days you can even pick one up free after rebate if you watch the deals. Hookup it up to your computer and pop in the card. It will show up on your computer as a new drive. When you're ready to save data to it, just drag and drop. It's no different than a regular floppy or hard drive. Once you see in this light there is a whole bunch of things you can use your flash memory card for and here are 5 ideas for you.

1. Use as a greeting card. Hey there's always an occasion around the corner. If you're already thinking of sending a CD greeting card - use your flash memory card instead. With the large storage sizes you can afford to have multimedia in your ecards too and when that person gets tired of it, the card itself is a gift for their computing convenience. As if that wasn't enough, you can probably get by with less postage too.

2. Use as media storage. One of the best things about flash memory cards is how much its small physical size can pack in. With memory sizes up to several Gigabytes, you could use it to store your media like video clips, picture clips, audio files and just about any downloadable content. Its small size also makes it highly portable without taking up valuable space on your notebook computer hard drive.

3. Sharing files or transferring files from one computer to another. If you need to do this often, here's a quick tip. Carry with you a USB card reader. Many of them are very compact and no heavier than your cell phone. Doing this has advantages over carrying a flash memory drive. Flash memory cards are smaller and a tiny catalog of cards can offer you much more memory than a flash drive. Better carry two things than a bunch of drives.

4. Build yourself an ebook library. Are you a book worm? One tiny flash memory card can store a lot of ebooks since most text based files are smaller than media files. You can store whole libraries of ebooks in various topics either on one card or dedicate one for each topic you are interested in. Again, they are easy to share and very portable - you'll never run out of reading material again even when on the road.

5. Run small software from it. Yes, there are tiny software that don't need to be installed and can run from the card itself. This is particularly helpful when you're using someone else's computer. Now you can carry your software with you too.

Now that you know - gather up those flash memory cards and start using them. Just because your new camera isn't compatible with it doesn't mean you should let it go to waste and the best part is, you won't have to worry about obsolete cards anymore.

To learn more about Computer Accessories visit A1-Computers today!

To buy some Computer Accessories at great prices visit SmartBargains.com and check out the last chance bargain items.

About the Author
Lynn Chan simplifies computing and computer care issues for new notebook computer owners. Start protecting your investment, with a free tutorial available at http://www.notebook-computer-infocenter.com/5days-to-a-healthier-notebook.html

Ink Cartridges: How have they evolved?

2005-11-25T12:14:00.000-05:00

This is a very interesting article on ink cartridges; where they started and where we are today. Wow, I know I'm glad there are great minds that keep improving our technology! A1-Computers--

First a little history lesson.....There was a time, long ago that printers had ribbons and used dot matrix printing to create tiny dots that, when looked at, were readable. Sometimes they were BARELY readable, however. Changing ribbons and printing wheels to change type face was a chore.

Then, in 1984, the first laser printer that used toner cartridges came into being. Quickly, no one wanted a dot matrix printer anymore. The laser printer caused powder from the toner to fuse onto the paper & the output was much clearer and much more professional in appearance. Very soon, dot matrix printers became known as "door stops".

By 1990, ink printers that used drop-in ink became readily available and very reasonable prices. These ink cartridges were very easy to change without any fuss. The cost to the user, compared to the toner , was significantly reduced though overall cost being more a question of cents per page tended to favour the toners.

So this is where it starts getting pretty cool....Today, ink printers using inks are so affordable that every computer owner can afford to own their own printer that is capable of using photo quality inks or for less expensive printing, inks that are remanufactured or "generic" or non-original manufacture. These can even be refilled in many cases to save even more in printing costs.

The price of the machines themselves has dropped by buckets and what they can do is way cooler than ever before. Not only can you print but also scan, fax (many do PC-Fax), copy, make your morning coffee, take out the garbage (ok not those last 2). Combining this many tasks obviously reduces the number of different machines in your home/office but in addition there's only one manual you have to completely ignore instead of many (for the guys reading this).
When using inks that are photo quality, it is sensible to use photo quality paper for your printing. This ensures the best quality print out resulting from your photo quality cartridge. While these inks will print on regular paper, it is a waste to place the more expensive ink cartridge into your printer and then print on plain non-glossy paper.

For every day printing in black and white or even in color, remanufactured or non-original inks work great and save dollars for you in the long run. As a general rule of thumb, you need to purchase twice as many black inks because there is, on average, more black printing needs for the average person.

Nowadays manufacturers are including more and more technology into their products and trying to convince you that their ink has that extra special something. Epson uses DURABrite ink, HP uses Vivera ink and the list goes on. If you ever get bored and feel the need to work yourself into a frenzy just try surfing some of the major sites to compare exactly what one manufacturers ink does compared to the next. If you come away from this sane you'll definitely know a lot more techie sounds words than you need to know today or in your next lifetime.

Many of the latest inks have cool gizmos in them like small chips designed to monitor the ink levels and tell you when its time to reorder and even little LEDs for those of you who want their printer to light up like a disco. The idea of the chip sounds great but there are cases where the chip is telling the printer to stop working too soon or even to not work at all if the consumables inside are not original (there's been at least one of the major players recently sued over exactly this). To try and counter this a ‘chip resetter' can be purchased which basically tells the chip to do as its told and keep on printing regardless of how much ink it thought was left in the tank. As far as the issue with these chips and non originals are concerned its actually illegal for a chip to stop your machine working on this basis but apparently this hasn't deterred a few of the big boys. Whether a chip resetter will fix this problem is uncertain.

Whether you want to print graphics, brochures, or just letters, there is a printer that uses inks for you. Choose inks that meet your printing needs at affordable prices.

Inks have evolved over the years in so many ways that they have in themselves become fairly hi tech let alone the machines that use them. Your average ink printer these days can perform a myriad of functions at prices seemingly getting cheaper by the minute.

Bottom line is yep your inks are getting more high tech and cooler (heck in the old days theres no way your ink or toner cartridge would actually light up with pretty colours for you and tell you when its about to run dry). The future is certainly going to be interesting seeing what comes next.....

I can't wait to see what comes next in; ink, printers, and all computer accessories! A1-Computers--

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

About The Author:Andrew James runs an successful online business based in Melbourne, Australia and regularly writes articles for the benefit of his clients and others.
The Cartridge Specialists http://www.cartridgespecialists.com.au info@cartridgespecialists.com.au

Is That PC Still Worth Keeping?

2005-11-24T01:14:00.000-05:00

Is your PC getting slower and slower, or was it never all that fast to begin with? Maybe you need a new desktop pc or maybe you just need some upgrades. Read below to find out. A1-Computers--

Written by Robin Dary Thursday, 13 October 2005

Computers... We love 'em and love to hate 'em. But before you trash that old PC and buy a new one, you may only need some tweaks, fixes or upgrades. If you are in the Parker, Colorado area, I can help you. If you're outside that area, please feel free to use this site as a resource. I've assembled loads of articles, links and resources for you to use.

Many PCs come with too little memory for it to run at its full potential. They also come with a lot of programs that you don't need and that load in the background for no good reason. And, over time, your PC collects lots of files from the internet that are taking up space and slowing things down. Add to that adware and spyware programs you didn't even know were running. All these factors can slow your PC down and bring your blood pressure up. With a good tune up and, perhaps, an upgrade, your old PC may have a couple years left in it.

Each new version of Windows requires more resources from your computer. If your computer came loaded with Windows XP, then it's only a few years old at the most and can still be a fine PC for most people. When Windows XP was first released, many computers came with a minimum of RAM and you would probably benefit from an upgrade. If you upgraded your PC from Windows 98 or ME to Windows XP, It's highly likely that you don't have enough RAM and you're PC is struggling to keep up. Your processor is probably marginally adequate as well. If you're still using Windows 95, 98, ME or 2000, you should very seriously consider getting up to Windows XP as soon as possible. No, Microsoft doesn't pay me anything for the sales pitch. The reason is this; Microsoft stopped supporting Windows 2000 on June 30, 2005. The older versions of Windows aren't supported either and are much less stable. Hackers are still writing nastyware for all Windows versions and XP is the only one being patched. It's also the most stable and secure of them all.

A new computer can cost only a few hundred dollars if you watch for a sale - and there's always a sale. I picked up a refurbished HP computer for my daughter for $200 and it's as good as some lower-end new PCs. If your old monitor still works and is still in focus, use it with the new PC, it'll work. My minimum recommended hardware list for Windows XP is: RAM - 256MB for simple documents, email and web surfing. 512MB or more is really recommended for most people as antivirus and other security software is running all the time and most people have more than one program open.

Processor - I wouldn't go any slower than 600MHz. Something this slow will work, but will struggle, and it shows the age of the computer. If your processor is faster than 1GHz, you're fine for a while. Hard drive - If your hard drive is bigger than 10 GB, you're fine. But keep in mind that hard drives get old and fail. It's not a matter of if, but when.

There are other, more advanced hardware specifications, but these will help guide most home users.

The Parker Computer Guy can tell you if your PC needs to be upgraded, tuned up or cleaned out. And if your computer is in need of repair, we can fix it quickly and get you back on track.

For more articles and information on desktop PCs check out A1-Computers.

Article Source: http://www.articleblast.com/

About the Author
Scott Dary, aka Parker Computer Guy, runs a computer repair and consulting business. Additional articles by Scott can be found at http://www.parkercomputerguy.com/

Save Money on Printer Ink and Toner Cartridge Purchases

2005-11-24T01:02:00.000-05:00

How would you like to cut your printing costs by up to 50%? There are many ways you can do this. Here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Buy Re-manufactured Cartridges - Purchasing re-manufactured cartridges will generally cost you less than purchasing new cartridges. Re-manufactured cartridges are printer cartridges that have been used at least once and then disassembled, cleaned and had worn parts replaced and refilled. Typically, remanufactured cartridges can save you from 30 to 50 percent off the price of new cartridges, or more.

2. Purchase refilled ink-jet cartridges or self-refill kits - These kits come with all the tools and instructions necessary to refill your own ink or toner cartridge. Purchasing these cartridges saves money and is good for the environment.

3. Buy in Bulk - You can save more money by purchasing printer cartridges in large quantities. You will save a lot more over the already discounted cost on new cartridges. If you frequently do a lot of printing you, can save even more by purchasing recycled or re-manufactured printer cartridges in bulk.

4. Purchase a compatible inkjet cartridge or toner cartridge - These are cartridges made from new parts and manufactured to OEM specifications for you exact printer. If you cannot find a compatible cartridge for your inkjet printer, you may want to consider remanufactured inkjet cartridges.

5. Buy ink and Refill your Cartridges whenever possible - Whether you're printing documents, photos or web pages, refilling your empty printer cartridges can save you up to 50% compared with buying new. You don't have to spend a fortune on inkjet cartridges and printing costs.

There are many other ways to save money on printer cartridges, but shopping around before you buy can also make it easier to get the best value. When shopping around for the best prices on printer cartridges, use shopping bots (Froogle, Dealtime), bargain sites, Coupon sites and Auction sites (eBay). Shopping bots are essentially search engines for gathering prices for products from a variety of vendors. They allow you to quickly search for merchandise across a wide variety of sites. They are an effective way to quickly get a feel for the available deals. Bargain or Discount sites get excess merchandise from other retailers and sell the merchandise at bargain prices.

For more on computer accessories see A1-Computers.net

About the Author
Copyright © 2005. Clive Chansa writes for the Discount Printer Cartridges Website at: http://www.discount-printer-cartridges.org.uk/ and he's also a regular contributor to the Power Batteries Website at http://www.power-batteries.co.uk/

Get the Most Life Out of Your Laptop Battery

2005-11-23T00:53:00.000-05:00

As more and more people are becoming part of the mobile workforce and using laptop or tablet PC's battery life is often a primary concern. Today's portable computers use lithium-ion batteries instead of older style nickel-cadmium power sources. In addition to being able to hold a greater charge, lithium is also very light weight, another important concern for portable computers.

Find all of your batteries and mobile accessories at batteries.com!!

When you are purchasing your laptop computer, investigate if a long-life battery is available. While it will add to the cost it can give up to double the usage of a normal battery. To get the most usage out of your battery you'll need to understand a little bit about how batteries work. Each battery has a limited number of charge cycles. If your battery lasts for 4 hours and on the first day you use it for 2 hours and then recharge it fully and the next day you use it for 2 hours again and then fully recharge it again, you will have completed one charge cycle. Each battery has a limited number of charge cycles before it starts losing it's the charge it can hold.

If you aren't using your wireless connection to connect to the internet or network turn off the wireless connection it will extend the life of your battery. The same holds true for Bluetooth connections. Another way to extend your battery life is to lower the brightness of your monitor. Lastly bear in mind that using your portable computer to play a DVD movie uses more power than using a spreadsheet.

If you find that you are often using the computer with the battery at full charge while connected to the main power supply you may want to remove the battery. Keeping the battery fully charged while it's at a high temperature, which is typical of conditions of a laptop that is always plugged into the main power supply, will dramatically shorten its lifespan. Discharging the battery regularly is also conducive to long battery life. Under optimal conditions laptop batteries will last 24 to 36 months, under less than optimal conditions you may shorten the lifespan down to 12 to 18 months.

To help keep your laptop battery operating at optimal conditions try to fully discharge it once a month. Many people find it helpful to set a calendar reminder so they don't forget. If you find your battery lasts less than 60 minutes, try fully discharging it several days in a row. Just leave your computer on overnight with no applications running. Be sure to turn off any alarm or lower power warnings that are associated with your power settings. If this fails to work you will need to replace the battery.

To learn more about laptop computers check out A1-Computers.

© Copyright TabletPC.6LN.com, All Rights Reserved.

About the Author
Eve Larson is the senior author for Tablet PC News and Reviews (http://tabletpc.6ln.com) where she provides information that helps you get the most out of mobile computing platforms.

Refurbished Laptops vs. Used Laptops

2005-11-18T01:30:00.000-05:00

Which Will You Choose? There are many choices out there when you start looking for a laptop: New laptops, refurbished latptops, used laptops, and cheap laptops. The following article will guide you to the right choice for your laptop needs.

If you have been searching the web for very long looking for a laptop you have seen these three phrases. Do they have different meanings? Yes they do as we will point out some reasons laptops are labeled differently. Let's begin by examining each phrase followed with a short definition:

Refurbished Laptops

Refurbished laptops are PCs that have been bought new by a consumer and has been used between 1 day and 3 months(depending on the store). The customer returns the laptop to the store for any number of reasons. At this time the store cannot sell it "as new". It must be returned to the original manufacturer for refurbishing- which means, "to make bright, or fresh again, renovate". Most stores offer a 30 day money back guarantee and within that time period is when most of the laptops are returned for a refund and sent back to the manufacturer. Thus refurbished laptops are born. Refurbished laptops are not new, but the closest thing to it because most are within a couple of months old. Refurbished laptops will have better processing speeds, more memory, newer Windows OS and the most up to date technology.

Refurbished laptops are definately worth the value and savings. A1-Computers--

Refurbished Products at Computers4SURE

Used Laptops

Used laptops are generally a little older, but are in perfectly working condition. Used laptops are perfect for people wanting to use a mobile computer for only a couple of applications, but still needs the mobility of a laptop. You can use these to run software programs in areas outside of an office where a desktop is not practical. Used laptops will have lower processor speeds, older Windows such as 98 and 2000, less memory space, but will still operate as a new one because they have been sent to a qualified computer technician to be reconditioned to it's original specifications. Used laptops are perfect for students doing homework, a professional that only needs to operate a few programs, or for someone who just wants to access the internet without the bulk of a desktop.

Then of course comes:

Cheap Laptops

Cheap laptops are basically a laptop that has minimal programs, lower memory and older OS programs. Cheap laptops are only cheap in price and not in quality. Most people looking for this kind of laptop is seeking a basic mobile PC to run only a couple of applications, or software programs. Cheap laptops are also used by those who only wish to surf the net, access e-mail, or any number of functions that don't require massive amounts of memory, or lighting speed processors. Cheap refurbished laptops work as new they are just a couple of years older than a refurbished laptop. If a student only needs to run one software program, or if an office worker just needs to create spreadsheets outside of the office cheap laptops are perfect. These are the choice of many people because they are basic and "cheap".

Dell Refurbished Computer Outlet

Let's recap all this information into a nutshell:
Refurbished Laptops-newer, faster, able to operate more applications, latest technology Used Laptops-a little older, basic Windows OS, slower processor speeds, less memory Cheap Laptops-older, mainly for schoolwork or operating a few applications, lower memory

Learn About and Purchase Refurbished Computers

Online Crazy Deals wants customers to be informed about the products they are purchasing. To learn about the different types of laptops visit-http://www.onlinecrazydeals.com/

Refurbished Laptops Are They The Best Value?

2005-11-18T01:10:00.000-05:00

Refurbished Laptops

Refurbished Laptops sales are growing at an alarming rate. Companies and business owners are having trouble keeping them stocked. Every top company including IBM, Dell, Compaq and HP are seeing a dramatic increase in the demand for refurbished laptops. Why? The answer is easy. They save people money and lots of it!

Dell Refurbished Computer Outlet

Refurbished laptops come in at almost 60% off the original retail price. The difference between a new laptop computer and a reconditioned one could be several hundred dollars. Saving money in today's world just got a little easier. Have you noticed natural gas and regular gas gowing up about 50%? Surely you have, unless you live on the moon! Refurbished notebooks have become totally exceptable in our society because people are seeing extra savings buying something a little used.

What exactly is a refurbished laptop? Here's the short answer. Someone buys a new laptop from a chain store, takes it home for a few days, or a couple of weeks. Then for one reason, or another decides they don't need it, or can't afford it. Usually within 30 days(depends on store policy) returns the notebook PC and gets a full refund of their money. The store cannot sell it as new anymore. So what happens to it?

The laptop computer is sent to the original manufacturer for store credit. Now the manufacturer has to do something with it, so they begin the refurbish process(which means to refresh, or make bright again). The company goes through every detail to make sure the laptop works properly and looks new, but it must be labled refurbished. It is then distributed through the economy sometimes at over the half off the new price.

At one time, or another most of the U.S. population has bought something used because they saw the difference in price. Those who did felt they didn't need to keep up with the Jones' and put the savings where they needed it. Buying used just shows how savvy a person is with their money and buying refurbished notebooks is a very smart thing to do.

Many students and business professionals need to stay mobile and must keep their notebook PC as current as possible to operate today's technology. The downside is it can be very expensive. Now it doesn't have to cost a fortune to keep up with current technology and stay mobile. Refurbished laptops provide the freedom from wires, and the ability to do almost anything, anywhere without the high price of a new mobile computer.

Refurbished laptops are definately worth the value and savings.

Refurbished Products at Computers4SURE

For more info on new and refurbished laptops visit Refurbished Laptops Info. Online Crazy Deals has information on buying refurbished electronics and will continue to bring the latest information on high tec equipment. Go ahead and share this information, but please leave the entire article in tact. Thanks for sharing your time with us.

Learn About and Purchase Refurbished Computers

About the Author
Let's consider many things we know about laptops. The first is they can be very expensive, but they don't have to be. Refurbished laptops are a great alternative to buying new and they are well worth the savings. http://www.onlinecrazydeals.com

How to Increase Your Computer Speed Fast

2005-11-15T01:03:00.000-05:00

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.

Your Computer could be infected with Spyware
Check your PC for SpyWare-Adware Free
This could be why your PC is running so slow

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!

$5 Off McAfee Security VirusScan Software, The leading anti-virus product on the market.

For more computer tips visit A1-Computers

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

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Who Cares About Computer Viruses

2005-11-12T11:34:00.000-05:00

Should we buy the best Anti-Virus software? Should we be worried about keeping it up to date so it can work against the latest viruses, worms, spyware, etc? What happens if we don't?
A1-Computers computer tips--

by Peter Blue

"Who cares !!" said my friend, "If it slows my PC down a bit, I can live with that. I'm NOT paying some PC nerd £50 / hour to remove these virus things every month !!", he continued.

We were chatting in my local the other day about computer security. There had been numerous reports of viruses, worms, spyware and other malware (Malicious Software) on the news, in fact there have been reports of these almost every week now. It has gotten so bad that a US Government agency (US-CERT) has advised against the use of Internet Explorer (IE) More here

My friend, being a typical bloke, wanted to change the subject to more bloke-like things like football and/or women. I guess he, like most people would regard his PC as just a souped-up television and would regard a virus infection as just a minor annoyance with no serious consequences. Well, here is a list of consequences a computer virus can be responsible for :-

1. Slow down your computer or cause it to crash.

2. Infect other computers on the Internet or your network.

3. Use your PC to launch DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks on other web sites causing the site to crash and the owner to lose money.

4. Use your PC to send out yet more spam.

5. Transmit your personal details held on your PC to hackers to use in identity theft. They can then use your details to take out loans in YOUR name.

6. Keystroke logging to discover your passwords and use those to access your bank account.

7. Use your PC to host child pornography web-sites. Could you explain how those evil photos got on your PC to your wife or the police ?

If that does not make you worried, it should. Many ISPs (Internet Service Providers) are becoming under pressure to block infected computers from their networks until they have been 'cleansed'.

$5 Off McAfee Security VirusScan Software, The leading anti-virus product on the market.

Back in the pub. ".. and in any case, I haven't got any money for these hackers to steal anyway !!", he finished, completely missing the point. I tried to explain to him that if someone stole his identity, they could get many loans in HIS name and go on a massive shopping spree " he might not have much money but, he would have even less by the time the banks could close his account. And there is a real possibility that his credit rating would permanently damaged.

Adware/Spyware Remover - Free Scan!

Take care out there

About the Author
Pete Blue has been a software developer for many years on systems like Linux, FreeBSD, Windows, UNIX and even DOS. http://www.pjblue.co.uk/