Here is a list of words you may run into when shoping or researching refurbished computers:
Factory Sealed: Factory Sealed products are new, in original manufacturer packaging and carry manufacturer warranty.
Open Box: Open Box products are retested, quality assured, fully functional and complete. The customer can expect original manufacturer packaging.
Resealed OEM: Missing Documents Resealed products are evaluated, quality assured, fully functional and shipped in original OEM packaging. Some or all documentation associated with the products may be missing.
Repackaged: Repackaged products are tested and quality assured, fully functional and repackaged for shipment.
Repackaged Missing Documents: Repackaged products are evaluated, quality assured, fully functional and repackaged for shipment. Some or all documentation associated with the products may be missing.
Resealed OEM, Missing Accessories: Resealed products are evaluated, quality assured, fully functional and shipped in original OEM packaging. Accessories that are not necessary to the functionality of the product may be missing.
Factory Refurbished: Factory Refurbished products have been returned to an authorized factory service center and restored to meet manufacturer quality standards.
Open Box With Minor Cosmetic Blemishes: Open Box products are tested and quality assured, fully functional and shipped in original manufacturer packaging. Products may have minor cosmetic blemishes such as scratches, dents, etc., which do not affect the product's functionality.
Resealed OEM, Missing Documents, Minor Cosmetic Blemishes Resealed products are evaluated, quality assured, fully functional and shipped in original OEM packaging. Some or all documentation associated with the products may be missing. Products may have minor cosmetic blemishes such as scratches, dents, etc., which do not affect functionality. Repackaged, Minor Cosmetic Blemishes Repackaged products are tested and quality assured, fully functional and repackaged for shipment. Products may have minor cosmetic blemishes such as scratches, dents, etc., which do not affect the product's functionality.
Repackaged, Missing Documents, Minor Cosmetic Blemishes Repackaged products :are evaluated, quality assured, fully functional and repackaged for shipment. Some or all documentation associated with the products may be missing. Products may have minor cosmetic blemishes such as scratches, dents, etc., which do not affect functionality. Resealed OEM, Missing Accessories, Minor Cosmetic Blemishes Resealed products are evaluated, quality assured, fully functional and shipped in original OEM packaging. Accessories that are not necessary to the functionality of the product may be missing. Products may have minor cosmetic blemishes such as scratches, dents, etc., which do not affect functionality.
Resealed OEM, Missing Documents, Missing Accessories, Minor Cosmetic Blemishes: Resealed products are evaluated, quality assured, fully functional and shipped in original OEM packaging. Some or all documentation associated with the products may be missing. Accessories that are not necessary to the functionality of the product may be missing. Products may have minor cosmetic blemishes such as scratches, dents, etc., which do not affect functionality.
Repackaged, Missing Accessories, Minor Cosmetic Blemishes: Repackaged products are evaluated, quality assured, fully functional and repackaged for shipment. Accessories that are not necessary to the functionality of the product may be missing. Products may have minor cosmetic blemishes such as scratches, dents, etc., which do not affect functionality.
Repackaged, Missing Documents, Missing Accessories, Minor Cosmetic Blemishes Repackaged products are evaluated, quality assured, fully functional and repackaged for shipment. Some or all documentation associated with the products may be missing. Accessories that are not necessary to the functionality of the product may be missing. Products may have minor cosmetic blemishes such as scratches, dents, etc., which do not affect functionality.
Repackaged, Missing Non-Essentials Repackaged products are tested and quality assured, fully functional and repackaged for shipment. Some or all of the non-essentials associated with the products may be missing. Non-essentials are defined as documents, ancillary accessories and ancillary software.
Repackaged, Missing Non-Essentials Minor Cosmetic Blemishes Repackaged products are tested and quality assured, fully functional and repackaged for shipment. Some or all of the non-essentials associated with the products may be missing. Products may have minor cosmetic blemishes such as scratches, dents, etc., which do not affect the product's functionality. Non-essentials are defined as documents, ancillary accessories and ancillary software.
Open Box, Missing Non-Essentials Open Box products are tested and quality assured, fully functional and shipped in original manufacturer packaging. Some or all of the non-essentials associated with the products may be missing. Non-essentials are defined as documents, ancillary accessories and ancillary software.
Open Box, Missing Non-Essentials, Minor Cosmetic Blemishes Open Box products are tested and quality assured, fully functional and shipped in original manufacturer packaging. Some or all of the non-essentials associated with the products may be missing. Products may have minor cosmetic blemishes such as scratches, dents, etc., which do not affect the product's functionality. Non-essentials are defined as documents, ancillary accessories and ancillary software.
Bonnie Archer is a successful author and publisher of http://www.A1-computers.net. A great source of information about computers and computer accessories.
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Refurbished Computers
Refurbished Computer Definitions
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
Saturday, May 21, 2005
Taking Care Of Your Laptop Computer
By Joe Chianese
As the proud owner of a new or old laptop computer, you will want to keep your machine in the best possible condition.
Besides cleaning your screen and dusting the keyboard, however, you will need to take a few extra steps to maintain your laptop's health:
Always play it cool:
A laptop computer can generate a lot of heat, particularly when
running the latest high-powered software. Too much heat and
you risk damaging the internal circuitry.
Try to always keep your laptop in a well-ventilated, cool
environment. And be sure you never block the fan grills on
the sides, back, or bottom of the machine at any time.
Handle the screen carefully:
You should always avoid touching or playing with your LCD screen.
It may be fun to watch the waves generated by your
finger against the screen, but LCD displays are fragile
devices that must be cared for.
Take care when cleaning the screen also, and use only approved cleaning materials.
You will not want to pay the money for screen repairs or, even worse - a new machine entirely.
Don't drop it:
Whatever you do, never drop your laptop computer! To be sure keep it safe inside of a carrying case when moving around and traveling.
Of course don't leave it on the edge of a table or on an unstable support of some kind. One ill fated drop to the floor could spell death for your mobile office.
All ways make sure the rubber feet underneath are in good condition and are still attached. Because this will prevent the device from sliding around accidentally.
Be careful with those drinks...
If you need to have a drink while working or playing, be careful not to spill it. Your laptop computer could suffer the consequences from just a few drops of liquid poured in the right (or wrong) places.
While you probably do eat and drink around it regardless, you will want to occasionally wipe down the edges, the keyboard, the touchpad, and maybe even wipe down the screen to keep any dirt from accumulating.
Just say no to viruses:
For your security, make sure you obtain an anti-virus program.
Secondly, keep it updated!
Buying an anti-virus one month and not updating it for the next six really negates it purpose. Your laptop computer could be exposed to hundreds and thousands of new viruses every month if you don't update your virus definitions.
Most anti-virus programs have automatic update methods,
eliminating the need for you to have to remember to do it
manually. It will update while you are online all by itself.
Avoid Popups:
Pop-ups are particularly annoying on a laptop computer.
Trying to close a bunch of windows without a regular mouse
can be a nuisance.
You'll want a pop-up blocker, such as the Google Toolbar
(located at http://tools.google.com), to prevent these pop-
up ads.
Many intrusive forms of advertising, and even some viruses,
can install software on your machine by using various forms
of pop-ups. It is best to get yourself a blocker and avoid
the situation entirely.
Use a firewall:
Always utilize a firewall on your Internet or network-
enabled laptop computer. Even if you use Windows XP's built-
in firewall (or purchase one from such companies as Norton),
your security will greatly benefit from it.
Blocking out all the unnecessary ports and closing all the
loopholes will prevent a hacker or virus from freely
entering your hard drive.
So there you go. Combine all of the above tactics and help
your laptop enjoy a happier and healthier lifestyle!
------------------------------------------------------------
Joe Chianese is a technical writer and frequent contributor
to HowToBuyALaptop.com. For advice on how to find the right
laptop computer for you, visit: http://HowToBuyALaptop.com
------------------------------------------------------------
For more information about computers and computer
accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Laptop Computers
As the proud owner of a new or old laptop computer, you will want to keep your machine in the best possible condition.
Besides cleaning your screen and dusting the keyboard, however, you will need to take a few extra steps to maintain your laptop's health:
Always play it cool:
A laptop computer can generate a lot of heat, particularly when
running the latest high-powered software. Too much heat and
you risk damaging the internal circuitry.
Try to always keep your laptop in a well-ventilated, cool
environment. And be sure you never block the fan grills on
the sides, back, or bottom of the machine at any time.
Handle the screen carefully:
You should always avoid touching or playing with your LCD screen.
It may be fun to watch the waves generated by your
finger against the screen, but LCD displays are fragile
devices that must be cared for.
Take care when cleaning the screen also, and use only approved cleaning materials.
You will not want to pay the money for screen repairs or, even worse - a new machine entirely.
Don't drop it:
Whatever you do, never drop your laptop computer! To be sure keep it safe inside of a carrying case when moving around and traveling.
Of course don't leave it on the edge of a table or on an unstable support of some kind. One ill fated drop to the floor could spell death for your mobile office.
All ways make sure the rubber feet underneath are in good condition and are still attached. Because this will prevent the device from sliding around accidentally.
Be careful with those drinks...
If you need to have a drink while working or playing, be careful not to spill it. Your laptop computer could suffer the consequences from just a few drops of liquid poured in the right (or wrong) places.
While you probably do eat and drink around it regardless, you will want to occasionally wipe down the edges, the keyboard, the touchpad, and maybe even wipe down the screen to keep any dirt from accumulating.
Just say no to viruses:
For your security, make sure you obtain an anti-virus program.
Secondly, keep it updated!
Buying an anti-virus one month and not updating it for the next six really negates it purpose. Your laptop computer could be exposed to hundreds and thousands of new viruses every month if you don't update your virus definitions.
Most anti-virus programs have automatic update methods,
eliminating the need for you to have to remember to do it
manually. It will update while you are online all by itself.
Avoid Popups:
Pop-ups are particularly annoying on a laptop computer.
Trying to close a bunch of windows without a regular mouse
can be a nuisance.
You'll want a pop-up blocker, such as the Google Toolbar
(located at http://tools.google.com), to prevent these pop-
up ads.
Many intrusive forms of advertising, and even some viruses,
can install software on your machine by using various forms
of pop-ups. It is best to get yourself a blocker and avoid
the situation entirely.
Use a firewall:
Always utilize a firewall on your Internet or network-
enabled laptop computer. Even if you use Windows XP's built-
in firewall (or purchase one from such companies as Norton),
your security will greatly benefit from it.
Blocking out all the unnecessary ports and closing all the
loopholes will prevent a hacker or virus from freely
entering your hard drive.
So there you go. Combine all of the above tactics and help
your laptop enjoy a happier and healthier lifestyle!
------------------------------------------------------------
Joe Chianese is a technical writer and frequent contributor
to HowToBuyALaptop.com. For advice on how to find the right
laptop computer for you, visit: http://HowToBuyALaptop.com
------------------------------------------------------------
For more information about computers and computer
accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Laptop Computers
Friday, May 20, 2005
iPod users - get the picture with iPod Photo!
This latest generation of hi tech gadget users are watching the different media they use start to converge as Apple launches its latest grab for the market with iPod Photo. Not only can you listen to all your music on the go, or organize your business and social life, but now your entire photo collection can be viewed at hand too. With the latest color screens iPod users can turn the favorite toy into a slideshow, which is set to music. Watch this with friends hanging out at the beach or connect it to your TV and away you go.
Now you can put your holiday photos to your own sound track and being able to view it wherever you want, well this is now possible to do, and with the 60GB version you can hold up to 25,000 photos. Of course, if you want to mix these up with music the storage would be shared but still with the longer lasting battery in the new generation of iPod you can get up to 5 hours of slideshow or 15 hours of music according to Apple.
This is all possible with your Apple Mac or PC using Autosync to make the synchronization of your music and pictures automatic. Visitors to http://www.auctions-andmore.com/articles2/3 are informed of many of the features of the latest iPods and the best deals around for purchasing these items. From their website you can access hundreds of online deals for the whole range of iPod products.
The latest iPods are set to rock the market once again with their latest visual addition. The only question is?.where will all this convergence end up? Soon these multi function devices may move into the area of telecommunications with the prospect of watching digital TV or videos. Perhaps our mobile phone will become our MP3, video and still camera with 5 mega-pixel definition. Who knows? But for the time being Apple have once again moved ahead in the hard-drive, hand-held multi-media gadget race.
iPod is produced by Apple which can be found at: Apple Store
About The Author
David Llennac is working in the field of Education and is the owner of the website http://www.auctions-andmore.com.
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
iPod Photo
A1-Computers
Now you can put your holiday photos to your own sound track and being able to view it wherever you want, well this is now possible to do, and with the 60GB version you can hold up to 25,000 photos. Of course, if you want to mix these up with music the storage would be shared but still with the longer lasting battery in the new generation of iPod you can get up to 5 hours of slideshow or 15 hours of music according to Apple.
This is all possible with your Apple Mac or PC using Autosync to make the synchronization of your music and pictures automatic. Visitors to http://www.auctions-andmore.com/articles2/3 are informed of many of the features of the latest iPods and the best deals around for purchasing these items. From their website you can access hundreds of online deals for the whole range of iPod products.
The latest iPods are set to rock the market once again with their latest visual addition. The only question is?.where will all this convergence end up? Soon these multi function devices may move into the area of telecommunications with the prospect of watching digital TV or videos. Perhaps our mobile phone will become our MP3, video and still camera with 5 mega-pixel definition. Who knows? But for the time being Apple have once again moved ahead in the hard-drive, hand-held multi-media gadget race.
iPod is produced by Apple which can be found at: Apple Store
About The Author
David Llennac is working in the field of Education and is the owner of the website http://www.auctions-andmore.com.
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
iPod Photo
A1-Computers
Sunday, May 15, 2005
What Is A Mouse? Who Invented The Mouse?
The mouse is a device that controls the movement of the cursor/pointer on a computer screen; it is a small object that you can roll along on a hard or flat surface. It's name came from its shape that looks similar to a mouse, the connecting wire similar to a tail. Also, as you roll it around it is like a scurry along the surface.
When you move the mouse, the pointer on the computer screen will move in the same direction. The computer mouse has at least one button and up to three. They all have different functions; depending on which program you are running. It may also have a scroll wheel, which makes it quick to scroll through long documents.
Who Invented The Mouse?
Douglas Engelbart of Stanford Research Center invented the mouse in 1963 . Xerox pioneered the mouse in the 1970's; it is one of the greatest breakthroughs incomplete ergonomic, because it frees the user up to a big extent from having to use the keyboard. With the mouse you can simply point to options or objects and click one of the mouse buttons: point and click programs. The mouse is great for designers and graphic programs that allow you to use the mouse like a pen, pencil, or paintbrush to draw.
Need computer accessories?
Want to know more about the computer mouse?
Computer Mouse
Need computer equipment?
When you move the mouse, the pointer on the computer screen will move in the same direction. The computer mouse has at least one button and up to three. They all have different functions; depending on which program you are running. It may also have a scroll wheel, which makes it quick to scroll through long documents.
Who Invented The Mouse?
Douglas Engelbart of Stanford Research Center invented the mouse in 1963 . Xerox pioneered the mouse in the 1970's; it is one of the greatest breakthroughs incomplete ergonomic, because it frees the user up to a big extent from having to use the keyboard. With the mouse you can simply point to options or objects and click one of the mouse buttons: point and click programs. The mouse is great for designers and graphic programs that allow you to use the mouse like a pen, pencil, or paintbrush to draw.
Need computer accessories?
Want to know more about the computer mouse?
Computer Mouse
Need computer equipment?
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Classification Of Computers
By: John Gibb
There are computers available in different shapes, sizes and weights, due to these different shapes and sizes they perform different sorts of jobs from one another. So here is a classification of computers for you to understand the difference.
Computers can also be classified in different ways like classification of computers by size. All the computers are designed by the qualified computer architectures that design these machines as their requirements. A home computer differs in size and shape from the computer being used in a hospital. Computers act as a server in large buildings, while the computer also differs in size and shape performing its job as a weather forecaster.
For instance, a student carrying a laptop with him to his college is different in shape and size from all the computers mentioned above. Here we are going to introduce different classifications of computers one by one. We will discuss what are in classifications and what job they perform.
Super computer:
The biggest in size, the most expensive in price than any other is classified and known as super computer. It can process trillions of instructions in seconds. This computer is not used as a PC in a home neither by a student in a college. Governments specially use this type of computer for their different calculations and heavy jobs. Different industries also use this huge computer for designing their products. In most of the Hollywoods movies it is used for animation purposes. This kind of computer is also helpful for forecasting weather reports worldwide.
Mainframes:
Another giant in computers after the super computer is Mainframe, which can also process millions of instructions per second and is capable of accessing billions of data. This computer is commonly used in big hospitals, air line reservation companies, and many other huge companies prefer mainframe because of its capability of retrieving data on a huge basis.
This is normally to expensive and out of reach from a salary-based person who wants a computer for his home. This kind of computer can cost thousands of dollars.
Minicomputer:
This computer is next in line but offers less than mainframe in work and performance. These are the computers which are mostly preferred by the small type of business personals, colleges, etc.
Personal computers:
Almost all the computer users are familiar with the personal computers. They normally know what the personal computer is and what are its functions. This is the computer mostly preferred by the home users. These computers are lesser in cost than the computers given above and also, small in size; they are also called PCs in short for Personal computers.
This computer is small in size and you can easily arrange it to fit in your single bedroom with its all accommodation. Today this is thought to be the most popular computer in all.
Notebook computers:
Having a small size and low weight the notebook is easy to carry to anywhere. A student can take it with him/her to his/her school in his/her bag with his/her book. This is easy to carry around and preferred by students and business people to meet their assignments and other necessary tasks.
The approach of this computer is also the same as the Personal computer. It can store the same amount of data and having a memory of the same size as that of a personal computer. One can say that it is the replacement of personal desktop computer.
This is one of the unique articles posted weekly on http://www.computer-and-printer-reviews.com.
About The AuthorJohn Gibb is currently the webmaster of several guide websites. http://www.computer-and-printer-reviews.com is his latest addition.
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Classification Of Computers
http://www.a1-computers.net
Where computer knowledge is free!
There are computers available in different shapes, sizes and weights, due to these different shapes and sizes they perform different sorts of jobs from one another. So here is a classification of computers for you to understand the difference.
Computers can also be classified in different ways like classification of computers by size. All the computers are designed by the qualified computer architectures that design these machines as their requirements. A home computer differs in size and shape from the computer being used in a hospital. Computers act as a server in large buildings, while the computer also differs in size and shape performing its job as a weather forecaster.
For instance, a student carrying a laptop with him to his college is different in shape and size from all the computers mentioned above. Here we are going to introduce different classifications of computers one by one. We will discuss what are in classifications and what job they perform.
Super computer:
The biggest in size, the most expensive in price than any other is classified and known as super computer. It can process trillions of instructions in seconds. This computer is not used as a PC in a home neither by a student in a college. Governments specially use this type of computer for their different calculations and heavy jobs. Different industries also use this huge computer for designing their products. In most of the Hollywoods movies it is used for animation purposes. This kind of computer is also helpful for forecasting weather reports worldwide.
Mainframes:
Another giant in computers after the super computer is Mainframe, which can also process millions of instructions per second and is capable of accessing billions of data. This computer is commonly used in big hospitals, air line reservation companies, and many other huge companies prefer mainframe because of its capability of retrieving data on a huge basis.
This is normally to expensive and out of reach from a salary-based person who wants a computer for his home. This kind of computer can cost thousands of dollars.
Minicomputer:
This computer is next in line but offers less than mainframe in work and performance. These are the computers which are mostly preferred by the small type of business personals, colleges, etc.
Personal computers:
Almost all the computer users are familiar with the personal computers. They normally know what the personal computer is and what are its functions. This is the computer mostly preferred by the home users. These computers are lesser in cost than the computers given above and also, small in size; they are also called PCs in short for Personal computers.
This computer is small in size and you can easily arrange it to fit in your single bedroom with its all accommodation. Today this is thought to be the most popular computer in all.
Notebook computers:
Having a small size and low weight the notebook is easy to carry to anywhere. A student can take it with him/her to his/her school in his/her bag with his/her book. This is easy to carry around and preferred by students and business people to meet their assignments and other necessary tasks.
The approach of this computer is also the same as the Personal computer. It can store the same amount of data and having a memory of the same size as that of a personal computer. One can say that it is the replacement of personal desktop computer.
This is one of the unique articles posted weekly on http://www.computer-and-printer-reviews.com.
About The AuthorJohn Gibb is currently the webmaster of several guide websites. http://www.computer-and-printer-reviews.com is his latest addition.
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Classification Of Computers
http://www.a1-computers.net
Where computer knowledge is free!
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Enter The Laptop - Notebook Computer
By: Laptopical
It's a fact. Notebook computers have leapt into the global sales arena with the force and flexibility of Bruce Lee, effortlessly dispatching their desktop competitors with nothing more than a dynamic one-inch sonoma punch.
With wi-fi technology growing around us, the demand for laptops can only increase. The ability to play games, or casually surf the Internet in wireless coffee shops and airports, will ensure that notebook computers remain incredibly popular. Laptop - notebook computers, though, aren't just utilized for leisure. Mobile technology is also beginning to dictate what happens in the classroom. This is especially true as notebooks are entering the educational arena in ever-increasing numbers. Indeed, schools such as Framingham State College, and the Myron B. Thompson Academy have both decided to use laptops as teaching tools in class.
Because of the adaptability and portability of laptop computers, retailers enjoyed a bountiful sales year in 2004. Consequently, everyone's using notebooks these days, from sprightly seventh graders to zimmer-wielding septegenarians.
Can this popularity and the incredible global sales figures be sustained? Yes they can. Once you couldn't find a notebook for under a thousand dollars, but now there is entry level selling for seven hundred dollars, and even lower with coupons and rebates. Recently, Wal-Mart began to offer laptops with Linux operating systems, and 30GB hard drives for fewer than 500 dollars.
Just how low can laptop prices go?
How about only a hundred dollars?
If Nicholas Negroponte, founder of MIT's Media Lab gets his wish, wireless laptops for third world countries will soon be available for around 100 dollars.
2005 - The Year of the Rooster?
Think again. This is most definitely the Year of the Laptop/notebook.
About The Author
More laptop news articles - http://www.laptopical.com/site-map.html About the folks at Laptopical - http://www.laptopical.com/about-us.html
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
laptop - notebook
Related Articles
Laptops Mainly Differ From Desktops In The Following Features Power supply: As desktops can be plugged in an outlet in the wall (AC Power) so can laptops with an AC adapter. But how a laptop is different from a desktop is that it is portable because batteries can also power laptops...
Selecting A LaptopWhen purchasing a new computer, you may be better served by a laptop than a traditional desktop computer. Recently, laptops with capabilities similar to desktops can be purchased for a comparable price.
Laptop Computer Extras for the Mobile TravelerA laptop computer certainly provides you with an unprecedented level of freedom and mobility away from the office. However there are a few laptop computer extras you might want to bring along on your laptop computer travels.
How To Take Care Of Your Laptop Computer. As the proud owner of a laptop computer, you will want to keep your machine in the bestpossible condition.
Why Buy a New Laptop or Notebook Computer? Discover the very best laptop and notebook computers. Wouldn't it be fun to expand your notebook computer and be able to create your own music CDs, home movie DVDs, maybe some digital photography, or even some serious gaming!
It's a fact. Notebook computers have leapt into the global sales arena with the force and flexibility of Bruce Lee, effortlessly dispatching their desktop competitors with nothing more than a dynamic one-inch sonoma punch.
With wi-fi technology growing around us, the demand for laptops can only increase. The ability to play games, or casually surf the Internet in wireless coffee shops and airports, will ensure that notebook computers remain incredibly popular. Laptop - notebook computers, though, aren't just utilized for leisure. Mobile technology is also beginning to dictate what happens in the classroom. This is especially true as notebooks are entering the educational arena in ever-increasing numbers. Indeed, schools such as Framingham State College, and the Myron B. Thompson Academy have both decided to use laptops as teaching tools in class.
Because of the adaptability and portability of laptop computers, retailers enjoyed a bountiful sales year in 2004. Consequently, everyone's using notebooks these days, from sprightly seventh graders to zimmer-wielding septegenarians.
Can this popularity and the incredible global sales figures be sustained? Yes they can. Once you couldn't find a notebook for under a thousand dollars, but now there is entry level selling for seven hundred dollars, and even lower with coupons and rebates. Recently, Wal-Mart began to offer laptops with Linux operating systems, and 30GB hard drives for fewer than 500 dollars.
Just how low can laptop prices go?
How about only a hundred dollars?
If Nicholas Negroponte, founder of MIT's Media Lab gets his wish, wireless laptops for third world countries will soon be available for around 100 dollars.
2005 - The Year of the Rooster?
Think again. This is most definitely the Year of the Laptop/notebook.
About The Author
More laptop news articles - http://www.laptopical.com/site-map.html About the folks at Laptopical - http://www.laptopical.com/about-us.html
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
laptop - notebook
Related Articles
Laptops Mainly Differ From Desktops In The Following Features Power supply: As desktops can be plugged in an outlet in the wall (AC Power) so can laptops with an AC adapter. But how a laptop is different from a desktop is that it is portable because batteries can also power laptops...
Selecting A LaptopWhen purchasing a new computer, you may be better served by a laptop than a traditional desktop computer. Recently, laptops with capabilities similar to desktops can be purchased for a comparable price.
Laptop Computer Extras for the Mobile TravelerA laptop computer certainly provides you with an unprecedented level of freedom and mobility away from the office. However there are a few laptop computer extras you might want to bring along on your laptop computer travels.
How To Take Care Of Your Laptop Computer. As the proud owner of a laptop computer, you will want to keep your machine in the bestpossible condition.
Why Buy a New Laptop or Notebook Computer? Discover the very best laptop and notebook computers. Wouldn't it be fun to expand your notebook computer and be able to create your own music CDs, home movie DVDs, maybe some digital photography, or even some serious gaming!
Friday, May 06, 2005
Newly released - the long awaited Mac OS X Tiger
By: Bonnie Archer
The new operating system from Apple has been much speculated, but the first reviews are a thumbs up! The OS X Tiger is an upgrade to the current OS X with a lot of new features. (Just like windows updates) Frank Casonova, the senior director of Mac OS X Tiger audio/video said "It will change the way you use your computer".
Apple Introduces Mac OS X Tiger, the world’s most advanced operating system
This update has over 200 new features all designed to make the interface as user friendly as possible. The feature that has been causing the most excitement is called The Spotlight. It works much like the Goggle Desktop Search but it is integrated directly into the operating system. But where it is different is that when you start typing in letter Spotlight instantly starts to search, instead of waiting until you are done typing and hit enter. Also new to search, Spotlight comprehensively searches files, folders, e-mail, PDF document, address books and calendar entries for the character typed into the box.
Even better is that any searched performed regularly can be saved as a smart folder an auto updated folder that holds files with certain criteria attached. For example you could easily set up a smart folder when performing a Spotlight search for say, all movies, you than add them to the special folders. Anytime another movie enters the system, if it has been burnt from a disk, gotten in e-mail or downloaded from the Internet it will be copied to that smart folder automatically, pretty cool. With this you always have a snapshot of just what you are looking for.
"Once you start using it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it" Casanova said, referring to the new Tiger Dashboard. The new Dashboard is a completely new feature, with a single keystroke a translucent screen appears or disappears over the desktop. It has what Apple calls 'widgets' all over it, they are graphic heavy applications that allow users to have easy access to a calculator, notepad, weather report stock quotes, flight information, currency converter, etc. There are fourteen widgets that ship with the OS and Apple is encouraging third party developers to create and sell their own. Dashboard is based on standard Web technologies, so Apple expects it will be easy for developers to create new widgets.
Also a new significant feature called the Automator, it allows the user to take repeated tasks and turn them into a mechanized process.
There is also a range of smaller changes too. Like the enhanced version of the current Mac messaging program, Apple iChat AAV. The new iChat allows up to ten people to chat at the same time and up to four can use the video chat all for free on the Internet. (Something you can't do in any of the standard IM clients on Windows.)
Also there is an updated font-management utility; a new way of synchronizing bookmarks, contacts, and the like across multiple computers.
Some analysts seem to be taking a positive tone when the conversation turns to Tiger. It is a big step forward and will change how you work with a personal computer, to date this is the best OS.
Tiger is now be included on all new Mac computers. Need to upgrade? The new OS will cost $129 for a single user and $199 for the 'family pack' that can be used on up to five computers.
The recent yearly upgrades have put Apple in a situation of being able to highlight more operating system changes frequently. With Tiger, Spotlight is the biggest of these changes. Apple is delivering the search features that Microsoft is still only talking about. What a great advantage for Mac users.
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Mac OS X Tiger
Discover how Mac OS X Tiger will transform the way you use a computer
Free Shipping for a limited time--
I hoped you enjoyed todays installment!
Bonnie Archer - Happy computing
http://www.a1-computers.net
The new operating system from Apple has been much speculated, but the first reviews are a thumbs up! The OS X Tiger is an upgrade to the current OS X with a lot of new features. (Just like windows updates) Frank Casonova, the senior director of Mac OS X Tiger audio/video said "It will change the way you use your computer".
Apple Introduces Mac OS X Tiger, the world’s most advanced operating system
This update has over 200 new features all designed to make the interface as user friendly as possible. The feature that has been causing the most excitement is called The Spotlight. It works much like the Goggle Desktop Search but it is integrated directly into the operating system. But where it is different is that when you start typing in letter Spotlight instantly starts to search, instead of waiting until you are done typing and hit enter. Also new to search, Spotlight comprehensively searches files, folders, e-mail, PDF document, address books and calendar entries for the character typed into the box.
Even better is that any searched performed regularly can be saved as a smart folder an auto updated folder that holds files with certain criteria attached. For example you could easily set up a smart folder when performing a Spotlight search for say, all movies, you than add them to the special folders. Anytime another movie enters the system, if it has been burnt from a disk, gotten in e-mail or downloaded from the Internet it will be copied to that smart folder automatically, pretty cool. With this you always have a snapshot of just what you are looking for.
"Once you start using it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it" Casanova said, referring to the new Tiger Dashboard. The new Dashboard is a completely new feature, with a single keystroke a translucent screen appears or disappears over the desktop. It has what Apple calls 'widgets' all over it, they are graphic heavy applications that allow users to have easy access to a calculator, notepad, weather report stock quotes, flight information, currency converter, etc. There are fourteen widgets that ship with the OS and Apple is encouraging third party developers to create and sell their own. Dashboard is based on standard Web technologies, so Apple expects it will be easy for developers to create new widgets.
Also a new significant feature called the Automator, it allows the user to take repeated tasks and turn them into a mechanized process.
There is also a range of smaller changes too. Like the enhanced version of the current Mac messaging program, Apple iChat AAV. The new iChat allows up to ten people to chat at the same time and up to four can use the video chat all for free on the Internet. (Something you can't do in any of the standard IM clients on Windows.)
Also there is an updated font-management utility; a new way of synchronizing bookmarks, contacts, and the like across multiple computers.
Some analysts seem to be taking a positive tone when the conversation turns to Tiger. It is a big step forward and will change how you work with a personal computer, to date this is the best OS.
Tiger is now be included on all new Mac computers. Need to upgrade? The new OS will cost $129 for a single user and $199 for the 'family pack' that can be used on up to five computers.
The recent yearly upgrades have put Apple in a situation of being able to highlight more operating system changes frequently. With Tiger, Spotlight is the biggest of these changes. Apple is delivering the search features that Microsoft is still only talking about. What a great advantage for Mac users.
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Mac OS X Tiger
Discover how Mac OS X Tiger will transform the way you use a computer
Free Shipping for a limited time--
I hoped you enjoyed todays installment!
Bonnie Archer - Happy computing
http://www.a1-computers.net
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
What You Should Look For When Buying A Printer
By Bonnie Archer
There are so many printer types and models on the market these days. So before going to your local store or online retailer (by the way online stores have many bargains that you can only get if you buy online--) you should give some serious consideration to what your new printer will be primarily used for. For example; some printers are better at printing photos, and some are better for text documents, the newest printers do it all in one. Hewlett Packard has an all in one that scans, copies, and prints. Others have faxes onboard, so check out all of your options, give some serious thought and decide what you will actually use. This way you will be prepared ahead of time and you will not make an impulse buy or let them pushy salespeople talk you into a printer with features you don't need. You will know what to look for when buying a printer.
A Home Printer Buying Guide
Once you decide how you are going to use your new printer you should spend some time researching printers online. There are lots of websites that have compiled hundreds of printer reviews. (PCworld.com) With our computer accessories page you can find links for different printer sites. Look around and check out the different specs and get a feel for what is available in your price range and with the options you want.
You might want to check the speed of the printer (pages per minute). A good average is around 20+ pages per minute in black and white. More importantly in my opinion is the resolution. Especially if you plan to print photos you need high resolution. Most of todays inkjet printers print pictures at a quality to match getting your photos done at the store if you use good quality (10mil or better) photo paper.
The best advise? Read everything you can find that other consumers had to say about their printers. Amazon, Epinions, and are great sites to check out as they collect user feedback on many printers. This way you will gain great insight into problems others have had with all different printers. You will want to stay away from printers that use excessive ink, have frequent paper jams, or the ink refils just cost too much.
Also, you should always check out the price of the ink refills before deciding on which new printer to buy. Most people replace their ink cartridges around every 3-4 months, depending on usage of course. I would say $20. per refill is a good average price, but be careful because they go much higher. Some even cost more than the printer itself, not good. It is really good when the first ink cartridges are included with the printer.
I hope you enjoyed todays read!
Bonnie Archer
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
What To Look For When Buying A Printer
Computer Accessories
Related Articles
Should I use recycled ink cartridges? In my opinion everyone should be using recycled ink cartridges! Why not? The quality is the same and you can get savings of upto fifty percent off.
The Truth About Printer Paper: Contrary to popular belief, the quality of your printer paper can have aserious impact on the quality of your printer output. You can buy thebest printer in the word ? feed it lousy paper, and you?ll get lousy results.
There are so many printer types and models on the market these days. So before going to your local store or online retailer (by the way online stores have many bargains that you can only get if you buy online--) you should give some serious consideration to what your new printer will be primarily used for. For example; some printers are better at printing photos, and some are better for text documents, the newest printers do it all in one. Hewlett Packard has an all in one that scans, copies, and prints. Others have faxes onboard, so check out all of your options, give some serious thought and decide what you will actually use. This way you will be prepared ahead of time and you will not make an impulse buy or let them pushy salespeople talk you into a printer with features you don't need. You will know what to look for when buying a printer.
A Home Printer Buying Guide
Once you decide how you are going to use your new printer you should spend some time researching printers online. There are lots of websites that have compiled hundreds of printer reviews. (PCworld.com) With our computer accessories page you can find links for different printer sites. Look around and check out the different specs and get a feel for what is available in your price range and with the options you want.
You might want to check the speed of the printer (pages per minute). A good average is around 20+ pages per minute in black and white. More importantly in my opinion is the resolution. Especially if you plan to print photos you need high resolution. Most of todays inkjet printers print pictures at a quality to match getting your photos done at the store if you use good quality (10mil or better) photo paper.
The best advise? Read everything you can find that other consumers had to say about their printers. Amazon, Epinions, and are great sites to check out as they collect user feedback on many printers. This way you will gain great insight into problems others have had with all different printers. You will want to stay away from printers that use excessive ink, have frequent paper jams, or the ink refils just cost too much.
Also, you should always check out the price of the ink refills before deciding on which new printer to buy. Most people replace their ink cartridges around every 3-4 months, depending on usage of course. I would say $20. per refill is a good average price, but be careful because they go much higher. Some even cost more than the printer itself, not good. It is really good when the first ink cartridges are included with the printer.
I hope you enjoyed todays read!
Bonnie Archer
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
What To Look For When Buying A Printer
Computer Accessories
Related Articles
Should I use recycled ink cartridges? In my opinion everyone should be using recycled ink cartridges! Why not? The quality is the same and you can get savings of upto fifty percent off.
The Truth About Printer Paper: Contrary to popular belief, the quality of your printer paper can have aserious impact on the quality of your printer output. You can buy thebest printer in the word ? feed it lousy paper, and you?ll get lousy results.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
Today's Digital Camera Batteries
by: Jakob Jelling
Every electronic device needs a driving force to operate it, just as every living thing needs a heart to keep it alive! Basically electric power does this job for any kind of devices nowadays. Similarly for any digital camera too, a good battery is a necessity in order to ensure an excellent performance as long as possible.
A crucial task, as if searching for a good heart for a human being, perhaps the most tedious thing about digital cameras is the quest for their battery consumption and thereby finding a suitable one for any particular one. A basic overview regarding this is so important a component of the digital camera makes the ventures of the users somewhat less complicated and makes life easier with a proper selection of the digital camera batteries!
Apart from the ever power thirsty LCD screens and flashes, the digital cameras themselves exhaust batteries much faster than film cameras, due to their state of the art electronic designs and intricate circuitry. Many digital cameras run from AA cells, around 4, and can even drain a set of alkaline cells in less than 1 hour of working! For example, the Kodak DC120 draws about 210mA during start or switch ON, but progresses to around 1.3A with the association of the LCD fully working and can go ahead to about 2.1A while picture taking and after it too.
With all these nightmares regarding the batteries of the digital cameras, it is worthwhile to analyze and reveal some of the available batteries for the digital cameras in an effort to explore area of power consumption in this fantastic device.
The first one of these; like its great name suggests, it is the Li-ion (Lithium Ion). It is one of the latest cell types available to digital camera users. This has many advantages to its credit. It is light in weight and currently available for many commercial uses and thus being so the Li-ion (Lithium Ion) battery type is becoming quite popular. This has an added advantage of being able to endow with more power than any of the other main cell types available. It is also free from the problems of memory effect, that some battery types do have, and maintenance is least in this type of battery. These are but real goodies about this Li-ion (Lithium Ion) battery. Yet it has one major disadvantage, that is, the price is usually significantly higher than conventional batteries, due to its sophisticated design and technology.
Next, the NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride). This is a battery that is perhaps the most frequently under use for not only digital cameras, but also for other sophisticated devices like laptop computers! This has the advantage of being cheap in price due to the fact that it incurs cheap manufacturing costs, and thus a choice for many users! But this does have the problems of memory effect, and much more maintenance and care is required while handling this kind of battery.
Last is the NiCAD (Nickel Cadmium) Battery. This is perhaps belonging to one of the older cell types generally available for older laptops and electronic devices. These batteries or cells have an aptitude for handling high power loads, and therefore is more frequently found in handy power tools and devices that require more amounts power to work efficiently and perfectly. Yet again, these batteries too have the problems of memory effect, and much more maintenance and care is required while handling this kind of battery.
Aside from the different batteries themselves, the selection should be based upon the charging techniques and the different charges available for all these digital camera batteries. Latest batteries come handy with charging free techniques too! So care needs to be taken in this area also, depending upon the requirements of the user.
With all this vivid conversation regarding the hearts of the digital cameras, their batteries, it is expected for every person going through the lines to have grabbed a significant amount of information in dealing with the intricacies of the purchase, and thereby also augment the ability of the person in using such a sophisticated device as a digital camera with a proper battery!
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Digital Cameras
About The Author:
Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.snapjunky.com. Visit his digital camera guide and learn how to take better pictures with your digicam.
Thanx for reading today!
Bonnie Archer
Related Articles
Digital Cameras Are A Fun And Convenient Computer AccessoryDigital cameras are one of the most fun computer accessories - wouldn't you like to send pictures to friends and family by e-mail? A digital camera is the easiest way to do that.
The Difference Between Digital Cameras and Conventional CamerasWe have digital cameras because the past twenty years have brought major technological breakthroughs for consumer electronics. These breakthroughs have been part of one large breakthrough.
The Truth About Printer Paper:Contrary to popular belief, the quality of your printer paper can have aserious impact on the quality of your printer output. You can buy thebest printer in the word ? feed it lousy paper, and you?ll get lousy results.
Inkjet Printers: How Much Do They Really Cost? There are inkjet printers for every budget. At the low end, you can pay less than $50. At the high-end, you can pay several hundred dollars. However, the purchase price of an inkjet printer is not the best way to determine how good of a bargain you are getting.
A1-Computers
http://www.a1-computers.net
Every electronic device needs a driving force to operate it, just as every living thing needs a heart to keep it alive! Basically electric power does this job for any kind of devices nowadays. Similarly for any digital camera too, a good battery is a necessity in order to ensure an excellent performance as long as possible.
A crucial task, as if searching for a good heart for a human being, perhaps the most tedious thing about digital cameras is the quest for their battery consumption and thereby finding a suitable one for any particular one. A basic overview regarding this is so important a component of the digital camera makes the ventures of the users somewhat less complicated and makes life easier with a proper selection of the digital camera batteries!
Apart from the ever power thirsty LCD screens and flashes, the digital cameras themselves exhaust batteries much faster than film cameras, due to their state of the art electronic designs and intricate circuitry. Many digital cameras run from AA cells, around 4, and can even drain a set of alkaline cells in less than 1 hour of working! For example, the Kodak DC120 draws about 210mA during start or switch ON, but progresses to around 1.3A with the association of the LCD fully working and can go ahead to about 2.1A while picture taking and after it too.
With all these nightmares regarding the batteries of the digital cameras, it is worthwhile to analyze and reveal some of the available batteries for the digital cameras in an effort to explore area of power consumption in this fantastic device.
The first one of these; like its great name suggests, it is the Li-ion (Lithium Ion). It is one of the latest cell types available to digital camera users. This has many advantages to its credit. It is light in weight and currently available for many commercial uses and thus being so the Li-ion (Lithium Ion) battery type is becoming quite popular. This has an added advantage of being able to endow with more power than any of the other main cell types available. It is also free from the problems of memory effect, that some battery types do have, and maintenance is least in this type of battery. These are but real goodies about this Li-ion (Lithium Ion) battery. Yet it has one major disadvantage, that is, the price is usually significantly higher than conventional batteries, due to its sophisticated design and technology.
Next, the NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride). This is a battery that is perhaps the most frequently under use for not only digital cameras, but also for other sophisticated devices like laptop computers! This has the advantage of being cheap in price due to the fact that it incurs cheap manufacturing costs, and thus a choice for many users! But this does have the problems of memory effect, and much more maintenance and care is required while handling this kind of battery.
Last is the NiCAD (Nickel Cadmium) Battery. This is perhaps belonging to one of the older cell types generally available for older laptops and electronic devices. These batteries or cells have an aptitude for handling high power loads, and therefore is more frequently found in handy power tools and devices that require more amounts power to work efficiently and perfectly. Yet again, these batteries too have the problems of memory effect, and much more maintenance and care is required while handling this kind of battery.
Aside from the different batteries themselves, the selection should be based upon the charging techniques and the different charges available for all these digital camera batteries. Latest batteries come handy with charging free techniques too! So care needs to be taken in this area also, depending upon the requirements of the user.
With all this vivid conversation regarding the hearts of the digital cameras, their batteries, it is expected for every person going through the lines to have grabbed a significant amount of information in dealing with the intricacies of the purchase, and thereby also augment the ability of the person in using such a sophisticated device as a digital camera with a proper battery!
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Digital Cameras
About The Author:
Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.snapjunky.com. Visit his digital camera guide and learn how to take better pictures with your digicam.
Thanx for reading today!
Bonnie Archer
Related Articles
Digital Cameras Are A Fun And Convenient Computer AccessoryDigital cameras are one of the most fun computer accessories - wouldn't you like to send pictures to friends and family by e-mail? A digital camera is the easiest way to do that.
The Difference Between Digital Cameras and Conventional CamerasWe have digital cameras because the past twenty years have brought major technological breakthroughs for consumer electronics. These breakthroughs have been part of one large breakthrough.
The Truth About Printer Paper:Contrary to popular belief, the quality of your printer paper can have aserious impact on the quality of your printer output. You can buy thebest printer in the word ? feed it lousy paper, and you?ll get lousy results.
Inkjet Printers: How Much Do They Really Cost? There are inkjet printers for every budget. At the low end, you can pay less than $50. At the high-end, you can pay several hundred dollars. However, the purchase price of an inkjet printer is not the best way to determine how good of a bargain you are getting.
A1-Computers
http://www.a1-computers.net
Friday, April 29, 2005
Your Guide to Buying a Digital Camera
Are you are one of those people who have never owned a digital camera in their life? You should go to a corner and cry for ten minutes. Then get back to this guide to buying a digital camera before hopping into your car to purchase one.
Decide out what you want to use it for. Walking into a camera store can be quite overwhelming - hundreds of cameras ranging from the size of a credit card to as wide as a computer manual. It may be cute to carry around a sleek little red digicam, but you will have to consider what you are actually going to use it for.
Will you need a compact one to store in your handbag? Are you planning to take professional photos for work? Does the number of features matter to you? Do you want a camera with manual functions? You don?t want to bring home a camera that does not satisfy your needs, or purchase one with so many features that you won?t be able to use it.
Y0u should be familiar with camera specs. So many fancy words on the box might make it look like your wallet sized camera will turn you into a professional shutterbug. Mega Pixel is the maximum resolution per photo--the higher the MP, the bigger the prints you can get without it looking blurry. If you are only planning to exchange photos on the internet, then a 2MP camera is fine. Optical Zoom and Digital Zoom are two different things - most pros snub Digital Zoom, since this is actually a software function that crops the image, which makes it lose its quality.
Your Budget. We won't lie to you: digital cameras do not exactly come cheap. When budgeting on which camera to take home, consider the features, its size, its Mega Pixel count, and the brand.
Many photographers swear by one brand over the other - if you are particularly loyal to just one brand, then you can shun the others and bask in just one aisle. But if you are a little bit more open-minded, then you have got a bigger playground to frolic in.
Also, you will need to see what kind of memory card (which is sort of like the 'film' of the camera) the camera needs, and what kind of digital camera batteries fuel it. Most digital cameras use AA batteries, so investing in a bunch of rechargeable ones is key.
Try the camera out. Many people make the mistake of reading the box, swiping their credit card, and coming home to find out that they are not comfortable with their latest purchase. While in the store, try taking a bunch of photos. Make sure it fits well in your hand, and it is easy to use. The most user-friendly cameras out there are Canon, Casio, and Kodak - but you might want to try out others. Take your time in familiarizing yourself with the possible units you will be taking pictures with.
Thats all for our Digital Camera Buying Guide--Good Luck!
About the author:
For comments and inquiries about this article visit http://www.ucreative.com
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Digital Cameras
Related Articles
Digital Cameras Are A Fun And Convenient Computer Accessory
Digital cameras are one of the most fun computer accessories - wouldn't you like to send pictures to friends and family by e-mail? A digital camera is the easiest way to do that.
The Difference Between Digital Cameras and Conventional Cameras
We have digital cameras because the past twenty years have brought major technological breakthroughs for consumer electronics. These breakthroughs have been part of one large breakthrough.
The Truth About Printer Paper:
Contrary to popular belief, the quality of your printer paper can have aserious impact on the quality of your printer output. You can buy thebest printer in the word ? feed it lousy paper, and you?ll get lousy results.
Inkjet Printers:
How Much Do They Really Cost? There are inkjet printers for every budget. At the low end, you can pay less than $50. At the high-end, you can pay several hundred dollars. However, the purchase price of an inkjet printer is not the best way to determine how good of a bargain you are getting.
Decide out what you want to use it for. Walking into a camera store can be quite overwhelming - hundreds of cameras ranging from the size of a credit card to as wide as a computer manual. It may be cute to carry around a sleek little red digicam, but you will have to consider what you are actually going to use it for.
Will you need a compact one to store in your handbag? Are you planning to take professional photos for work? Does the number of features matter to you? Do you want a camera with manual functions? You don?t want to bring home a camera that does not satisfy your needs, or purchase one with so many features that you won?t be able to use it.
Y0u should be familiar with camera specs. So many fancy words on the box might make it look like your wallet sized camera will turn you into a professional shutterbug. Mega Pixel is the maximum resolution per photo--the higher the MP, the bigger the prints you can get without it looking blurry. If you are only planning to exchange photos on the internet, then a 2MP camera is fine. Optical Zoom and Digital Zoom are two different things - most pros snub Digital Zoom, since this is actually a software function that crops the image, which makes it lose its quality.
Your Budget. We won't lie to you: digital cameras do not exactly come cheap. When budgeting on which camera to take home, consider the features, its size, its Mega Pixel count, and the brand.
Many photographers swear by one brand over the other - if you are particularly loyal to just one brand, then you can shun the others and bask in just one aisle. But if you are a little bit more open-minded, then you have got a bigger playground to frolic in.
Also, you will need to see what kind of memory card (which is sort of like the 'film' of the camera) the camera needs, and what kind of digital camera batteries fuel it. Most digital cameras use AA batteries, so investing in a bunch of rechargeable ones is key.
Try the camera out. Many people make the mistake of reading the box, swiping their credit card, and coming home to find out that they are not comfortable with their latest purchase. While in the store, try taking a bunch of photos. Make sure it fits well in your hand, and it is easy to use. The most user-friendly cameras out there are Canon, Casio, and Kodak - but you might want to try out others. Take your time in familiarizing yourself with the possible units you will be taking pictures with.
Thats all for our Digital Camera Buying Guide--Good Luck!
About the author:
For comments and inquiries about this article visit http://www.ucreative.com
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
Digital Cameras
Related Articles
Digital Cameras Are A Fun And Convenient Computer Accessory
Digital cameras are one of the most fun computer accessories - wouldn't you like to send pictures to friends and family by e-mail? A digital camera is the easiest way to do that.
The Difference Between Digital Cameras and Conventional Cameras
We have digital cameras because the past twenty years have brought major technological breakthroughs for consumer electronics. These breakthroughs have been part of one large breakthrough.
The Truth About Printer Paper:
Contrary to popular belief, the quality of your printer paper can have aserious impact on the quality of your printer output. You can buy thebest printer in the word ? feed it lousy paper, and you?ll get lousy results.
Inkjet Printers:
How Much Do They Really Cost? There are inkjet printers for every budget. At the low end, you can pay less than $50. At the high-end, you can pay several hundred dollars. However, the purchase price of an inkjet printer is not the best way to determine how good of a bargain you are getting.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
One-Year Cost of Inkjet Printing
You can now purchase an inkjet printer for as little as $39. With rebates, it may even be less. Not many people would argue about the good deal they got when they purchased their printer. However, the purchase price of an inkjet printer really does not tell you much about your cost of printing. After all, you do need paper and inkjet cartridges to keep your printer printing.
You go to a car lot and look at the sticker price of a car, you will see some of the following items: the base price of the car, the cost for each additional feature or package, the number of miles per gallon for both city and road, and the cost of gasoline for one year under normal driving conditions. What if you got this same type of information for your printer? Would you still buy the same inkjet printer? How would you feel if you knew you would pay more for gas and oil, in the first year you owned your car, than you paid for the car?
Fact is, unless you do very little printing, you will pay more for your paper and inkjet cartridges in the first year than you will pay for your inkjet printer. This is especially true for the low cost inkjet printers. In some cases, the cost of one inkjet cartridge is more than the entire purchase price of an inkjet printer.
Now, if you look at an inkjet printer advertisement, you would learn about some of the following items: the number of pages printed per minute in text and color, the time to print a certain size photo in black and white or color, the number of inkjet cartridges or tanks the printer holds, the near perfect quality of the photo reproduction, the outstanding resolution you will get from (so many) inkjet nozzles and a packaging list of items that come in the box when you purchase it.
However, in most inkjet printer advertisements, you will not see the cost of the premium paper needed to achieve that outstanding photo reproduction. The replacement cost for a black or color inkjet cartridge is nowhere to be found. About the only thing you will see with a dollar sign is the low purchase price of the printer and possibly the rebate. (They also do not tell you all the steps you have to follow to get your rebate and how it may prevent you from returning the printer to the store if something unexpected happened? but that is another story.)
If you look at some of the most popular inkjet printers, here is what you will find about their inkjet cartridges. On the average, a black inkjet cartridge costs between $22 and $30 to replace. A color printer cartridge normally runs between $35 and $60, depending on size.
To get your inkjet printer to print out those outstanding photos that will last for years, you will need to purchase some premium quality paper. Depending on the size, weight and quantity of the premium paper, you can expect to pay from 60 cents to a dollar per page.
Consumers need to know that the major printer manufacturers are selling their inkjet printers at or below cost. They have adopted the marketing practice used in other industries, like the cell phone or razor blade. That is, they sell their initial product at cost or below and expect to make their real profits on the high mark up of their consumable supplies or services.
Don't get me wrong. The quality of the inkjet printer photo reproductions is approaching that of traditional photo processing. The speed of the inkjet printer is constantly rising. The crisp and clear text from the inkjet printer is nearly equal to the quality of laser print. All these are wonderful and welcomed features.
The point I want to make is this: The real cost of printing is not the purchase price of the inkjet printer. You, the consumer, should be informed of the on-going or real cost of printing. Then, you can decide how much you really want to pay for your printing needs.
If the major printer manufacturers were to charge a reasonable price (with profit) for their inkjet printer and reduce the cost of their inkjet cartridges and premium paper, you would realize a substantial savings.
A well-informed consumer is a wiser consumer. If you had a way to estimate the one year cost of printing, depending upon your needs, you would be able to make a much better informed decision on what inkjet printer would best meet your needs.
Until the major manufacturers decide to change their marketing practices, you can do something about the high cost of printing. There are many reputable online merchants that provide compatible inkjet cartridges and inkjet refill kits that can save you up to 85% on the cost of printing. Five minutes of your time reviewing some of these companies could save you hundreds and even thousands of dollars. That would definitely help you reduce your one-year cost of printing. I thought you needed to know.
About the author:Larry Andrew is an educational consultant, author and publisher of http://www.ez-printer-ink.com/ Purchasing printer ink, toner and inkjet cartridges on line should be fast, convenient and cost-effective.
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
http://www.a1-computers.net/cost_of_inkjet_printing.html
Computer Accessories
Computer Equipment
You go to a car lot and look at the sticker price of a car, you will see some of the following items: the base price of the car, the cost for each additional feature or package, the number of miles per gallon for both city and road, and the cost of gasoline for one year under normal driving conditions. What if you got this same type of information for your printer? Would you still buy the same inkjet printer? How would you feel if you knew you would pay more for gas and oil, in the first year you owned your car, than you paid for the car?
Fact is, unless you do very little printing, you will pay more for your paper and inkjet cartridges in the first year than you will pay for your inkjet printer. This is especially true for the low cost inkjet printers. In some cases, the cost of one inkjet cartridge is more than the entire purchase price of an inkjet printer.
Now, if you look at an inkjet printer advertisement, you would learn about some of the following items: the number of pages printed per minute in text and color, the time to print a certain size photo in black and white or color, the number of inkjet cartridges or tanks the printer holds, the near perfect quality of the photo reproduction, the outstanding resolution you will get from (so many) inkjet nozzles and a packaging list of items that come in the box when you purchase it.
However, in most inkjet printer advertisements, you will not see the cost of the premium paper needed to achieve that outstanding photo reproduction. The replacement cost for a black or color inkjet cartridge is nowhere to be found. About the only thing you will see with a dollar sign is the low purchase price of the printer and possibly the rebate. (They also do not tell you all the steps you have to follow to get your rebate and how it may prevent you from returning the printer to the store if something unexpected happened? but that is another story.)
If you look at some of the most popular inkjet printers, here is what you will find about their inkjet cartridges. On the average, a black inkjet cartridge costs between $22 and $30 to replace. A color printer cartridge normally runs between $35 and $60, depending on size.
To get your inkjet printer to print out those outstanding photos that will last for years, you will need to purchase some premium quality paper. Depending on the size, weight and quantity of the premium paper, you can expect to pay from 60 cents to a dollar per page.
Consumers need to know that the major printer manufacturers are selling their inkjet printers at or below cost. They have adopted the marketing practice used in other industries, like the cell phone or razor blade. That is, they sell their initial product at cost or below and expect to make their real profits on the high mark up of their consumable supplies or services.
Don't get me wrong. The quality of the inkjet printer photo reproductions is approaching that of traditional photo processing. The speed of the inkjet printer is constantly rising. The crisp and clear text from the inkjet printer is nearly equal to the quality of laser print. All these are wonderful and welcomed features.
The point I want to make is this: The real cost of printing is not the purchase price of the inkjet printer. You, the consumer, should be informed of the on-going or real cost of printing. Then, you can decide how much you really want to pay for your printing needs.
If the major printer manufacturers were to charge a reasonable price (with profit) for their inkjet printer and reduce the cost of their inkjet cartridges and premium paper, you would realize a substantial savings.
A well-informed consumer is a wiser consumer. If you had a way to estimate the one year cost of printing, depending upon your needs, you would be able to make a much better informed decision on what inkjet printer would best meet your needs.
Until the major manufacturers decide to change their marketing practices, you can do something about the high cost of printing. There are many reputable online merchants that provide compatible inkjet cartridges and inkjet refill kits that can save you up to 85% on the cost of printing. Five minutes of your time reviewing some of these companies could save you hundreds and even thousands of dollars. That would definitely help you reduce your one-year cost of printing. I thought you needed to know.
About the author:Larry Andrew is an educational consultant, author and publisher of http://www.ez-printer-ink.com/ Purchasing printer ink, toner and inkjet cartridges on line should be fast, convenient and cost-effective.
For more information about computers and computer accessories or to purchase them please click below.
http://www.a1-computers.net/cost_of_inkjet_printing.html
Computer Accessories
Computer Equipment
Thursday, April 21, 2005
Why Should I use recycled ink cartridges?
My opinion is that everyone should be using recycled ink cartridges! Why? The quality is the same and you can get savings of up to fifty percent off. But most important is our environment! There are millions of ink cartridges bought every year and only 10-15 percent are currently recycled. Each time you finish a inkjet cartridge you can drop it at an office supply store or obtain an envelope to recycle it. Even Best Buy has a bin you can drop them into to be recycled. I use hp and with each new cartridge you get an envelope to mail your used cartridge back to be recycled, I like that, it is even pre-paid postage! So the use of recycled ink cartridges is a win win!
Is the print quality of a recycled ink cartridge be the same as a new ink cartridge?
Many manufacturers only use high quality inks, which are specifically for inkjet cartridges. They should guarantee the print quality, check the policy before purchasing.
Am I going to get the same number of print pages with a remanufactured cartridge?
All recycled inkcartridges have a specific amount of ink to begin their lifespan and that determines the printing capacity. Each cartridge is weighed for the correct amount of ink during processing and re-checked during quality control.
Have A Great Day and Happy Printing For Less $$!
Bonnie Archer
Should I use recycled ink cartridges?
Computer Equipment
Is the print quality of a recycled ink cartridge be the same as a new ink cartridge?
Many manufacturers only use high quality inks, which are specifically for inkjet cartridges. They should guarantee the print quality, check the policy before purchasing.
Am I going to get the same number of print pages with a remanufactured cartridge?
All recycled inkcartridges have a specific amount of ink to begin their lifespan and that determines the printing capacity. Each cartridge is weighed for the correct amount of ink during processing and re-checked during quality control.
Have A Great Day and Happy Printing For Less $$!
Bonnie Archer
Friday, April 15, 2005
How Laptops are Different than Desktops
Laptops mainly differ from desktops in the following features:
Power supply: As desktops can be plugged in an outlet in the wall (AC Power) so can laptops with an AC adapter. But how a laptop is different from a desktop is that it is portable because batteries can also power laptops. The batteries are rechargeable; lithium, nickel-cadmium, or nickel-metal hydride.
Display: Also like desktops, laptops have some type of LCD display screen. Modern Laptops have 800 x 600 pixel resolution. This gives it a very clear screen and anything less should be avoided.
Input Devices: On a desktop computer you usually use a mouse and keyboard to enter data and navigate. With laptops keyboards are built in but since they are portable so they don't have a mouse. Instead they have one of three input devices in place of the mouse. A trackball, rotating the ball allows you to move the cursor. A trackpoint allows you to push your finger over the point to move the cursor. Lastly, a laptop may have a touchpad that you move your finger across to move the cursor.
Docking Connections: Many laptops come with a docking connection to make it more comfortable to use at a desk. You just plug your laptop in and use it as a desktop. The docking station comes with many peripheral devices: full size computer monitor, full size keyboard and mouse, disk drives and printer.
Thanks for reading
B. Archer
A successful author and publisher of http://www.A1-computers.net. A great source of information about computers and computer accessories.
Laptop Computers
Power supply: As desktops can be plugged in an outlet in the wall (AC Power) so can laptops with an AC adapter. But how a laptop is different from a desktop is that it is portable because batteries can also power laptops. The batteries are rechargeable; lithium, nickel-cadmium, or nickel-metal hydride.
Display: Also like desktops, laptops have some type of LCD display screen. Modern Laptops have 800 x 600 pixel resolution. This gives it a very clear screen and anything less should be avoided.
Input Devices: On a desktop computer you usually use a mouse and keyboard to enter data and navigate. With laptops keyboards are built in but since they are portable so they don't have a mouse. Instead they have one of three input devices in place of the mouse. A trackball, rotating the ball allows you to move the cursor. A trackpoint allows you to push your finger over the point to move the cursor. Lastly, a laptop may have a touchpad that you move your finger across to move the cursor.
Docking Connections: Many laptops come with a docking connection to make it more comfortable to use at a desk. You just plug your laptop in and use it as a desktop. The docking station comes with many peripheral devices: full size computer monitor, full size keyboard and mouse, disk drives and printer.
Thanks for reading
B. Archer
A successful author and publisher of http://www.A1-computers.net. A great source of information about computers and computer accessories.
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
Meet The New iPod
What’s new?
The click wheel
More efficient menus
New features
Longer play
Lower price
Color...well...
Apple's new color iPod. Color display. 15 hrs battery life. Get free shipping & free engraving.
iPod shuffle
The fourth generation iPod is on the market. The new iPod operates much more efficiently, has more features and costs less! It also looks a bit different; it has gotten slimmer, and more sleek. This one is about a millimeter thinner.
The control buttons that used to be under the display screen have been eliminated. Now they have a click wheel and the controls are placed on the compass points on the circular touch pad so you can scroll through the menus. The idea actually came from the Mini iPod. On the mini there just wasn’t enough room for the buttons. "But the minute we experienced it we just thought My God, why didn't we think of this sooner?" says Steve Jobs.
This new iPod is more efficient: there is less thumbing to find your favorite music. The first level entry is music, and now one click starts the popular method of shuffling your library to playback.
Included in the new features is multiple on the go play lists and you can delete songs from ad hoc mixes. Also, the audio books are not only easier to find but you can also listen to them at normal speed, slower speed, or twenty-five percent faster and it doesn’t sound like you are in chipmunk land.
Because of a new conservation of power that Apple has created you can now listen to twelve hours of music before needing to re-charge your batteries. That is a fifty percent boost in battery lasting power.
All this extra stuff you get for a lower price! The 10,000 songs or 40 gigs runs for $399. And the 5,000 songs or 20 gigs now cost $299. That is a savings of $100. for each model since the last release. The 15 gigs are no longer available.
Get iTunes Music
iPod U2 Special Edition Is Collectable and Exciting!
This Apple U2 special addition iPod is for Mac and Windows. It is very
collectable because it is the only black iPod available. And of course it
has the engraved signatures on its backside of U2's Bono, Larry Mullen...
A1-Computers
The click wheel
More efficient menus
New features
Longer play
Lower price
Color...well...
Apple's new color iPod. Color display. 15 hrs battery life. Get free shipping & free engraving.
iPod shuffle
The fourth generation iPod is on the market. The new iPod operates much more efficiently, has more features and costs less! It also looks a bit different; it has gotten slimmer, and more sleek. This one is about a millimeter thinner.
The control buttons that used to be under the display screen have been eliminated. Now they have a click wheel and the controls are placed on the compass points on the circular touch pad so you can scroll through the menus. The idea actually came from the Mini iPod. On the mini there just wasn’t enough room for the buttons. "But the minute we experienced it we just thought My God, why didn't we think of this sooner?" says Steve Jobs.
This new iPod is more efficient: there is less thumbing to find your favorite music. The first level entry is music, and now one click starts the popular method of shuffling your library to playback.
Included in the new features is multiple on the go play lists and you can delete songs from ad hoc mixes. Also, the audio books are not only easier to find but you can also listen to them at normal speed, slower speed, or twenty-five percent faster and it doesn’t sound like you are in chipmunk land.
Because of a new conservation of power that Apple has created you can now listen to twelve hours of music before needing to re-charge your batteries. That is a fifty percent boost in battery lasting power.
All this extra stuff you get for a lower price! The 10,000 songs or 40 gigs runs for $399. And the 5,000 songs or 20 gigs now cost $299. That is a savings of $100. for each model since the last release. The 15 gigs are no longer available.
Get iTunes Music
iPod U2 Special Edition Is Collectable and Exciting!
This Apple U2 special addition iPod is for Mac and Windows. It is very
collectable because it is the only black iPod available. And of course it
has the engraved signatures on its backside of U2's Bono, Larry Mullen...
A1-Computers
Thursday, March 31, 2005
The iPod U2 Special Edition Is Collectable and Exciting!
A1-Computers.net
This Apple U2 special addition iPod can be used with Mac or Windows. It is collectable for many reasons; first, it is the only black iPod available. And of course it has the engraved signatures on its backside of U2's Bono, Larry Mullen, Adam Clayton, and The Edge. Also featured on the back is a U2 logo and the phrase iPod Special Edition. The U2 is the only Special Edition iPod. It has 20GB memory (that means up to 5000 songs!), a red Apple click wheel instead of the usual gray, and the signature white iPod ear buds.
The fourth generation iPod U2 Edition has a four gray scale screen rather than a color one. The U2 iPod is the thinnest full-sized body so far. It comes with a U2 poster and a $50. coupon towards U2s newest box set: iTunes Digital Box Set titled The Complete U2 with over 400 tracks, every album they have made. Plus rare and previously unreleased songs!
Keep up to 5000 songs in your pocket
Use it with Mac OS X or Windows 2000/XP
Take it everywhere — it’s only 5.6 ounces
Find songs fast with the Apple Click Wheel
Listen longer with up to 12 hours battery life
Shuffle songs in the main menu
Play MP3, AAC and Apple Lossless
Jog without fear — 25 minutes of skip protection
Save multiple On-the-Go Playlists
Adjust speed for Audiobooks
Enjoy seamless integration with iTunes
Sync and charge via included FireWire or USB 2.0 cables
Use as a portable hard drive — take your files with you
Remind yourself with Text Notes
Play games on-the-go
Keep appointments using the Alarm Clock and Sleep Timer
Stay organized with contacts, calendars and to-do lists
Now you know that its practical, its fun, and its exciting...
Get Your iPod U2 Special Edition While You Still Can!
iPod U2 Special Edition
This Apple U2 special addition iPod can be used with Mac or Windows. It is collectable for many reasons; first, it is the only black iPod available. And of course it has the engraved signatures on its backside of U2's Bono, Larry Mullen, Adam Clayton, and The Edge. Also featured on the back is a U2 logo and the phrase iPod Special Edition. The U2 is the only Special Edition iPod. It has 20GB memory (that means up to 5000 songs!), a red Apple click wheel instead of the usual gray, and the signature white iPod ear buds.
The fourth generation iPod U2 Edition has a four gray scale screen rather than a color one. The U2 iPod is the thinnest full-sized body so far. It comes with a U2 poster and a $50. coupon towards U2s newest box set: iTunes Digital Box Set titled The Complete U2 with over 400 tracks, every album they have made. Plus rare and previously unreleased songs!
More features included with this iPod U2 Edition are:
Keep up to 5000 songs in your pocket
Use it with Mac OS X or Windows 2000/XP
Take it everywhere — it’s only 5.6 ounces
Find songs fast with the Apple Click Wheel
Listen longer with up to 12 hours battery life
Shuffle songs in the main menu
Play MP3, AAC and Apple Lossless
Jog without fear — 25 minutes of skip protection
Save multiple On-the-Go Playlists
Adjust speed for Audiobooks
Enjoy seamless integration with iTunes
Sync and charge via included FireWire or USB 2.0 cables
Use as a portable hard drive — take your files with you
Remind yourself with Text Notes
Play games on-the-go
Keep appointments using the Alarm Clock and Sleep Timer
Stay organized with contacts, calendars and to-do lists
Now you know that its practical, its fun, and its exciting...
Get Your iPod U2 Special Edition While You Still Can!
iPod U2 Special Edition
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Remanufactured Toner Cartridges vs. OEM (original manufacturer) Cartridges
I have worked in the toner industry for over six years, and in that time have seen a good deal of change within the industry. The remanufacturing industry began as a drill and fill operation. Components were not changed; the cartridge was cleaned and refilled with toner. This led to poor print quality, defects, and cartridges that leaked toner into machines. Some companies continue with these practices today, but most have made a legitimate effort at selling a quality product.
Quality remanufactured toner cartridges are now available. Remanufactured toner cartridges can actually exceed OEM quality and yield. Extensive testing and R&D have enabled this industry to produce cartridges that will not only save the customer money, but also provide a better product.
As the customer, what should you ask potential vendors about their remanufactured cartridges?
1. What yield and density did the cartridges achieve in testing?
The yield is the amount of pages the cartridge produces before running out of toner. Make sure that the testing is performed at 5% page coverage. This is the industry standard. You can ask if they used a toner head, this is the best way to achieve 5% page coverage. Be careful with companies that just give you the OEM yield, they may not have actually done any testing.
The density measures how dark the text is. The density is usually between 1.3 and 1.6. Ask how many cartridges they test to achieve their numbers. Testing one cartridge does not give an accurate measurement. Also, ask how often they test their toner/drum combinations. Suppliers change toner qualities and continued testing is important to ensure quality.
2. Does the company change any components?
Ask if the company changes the drum, wiper blade and mag roller. These components are all very important to print quality. Some lower yield cartridges do not need to have their drums changed if they are properly tested, but anything over 4,000 pages should, at least, receive a new drum.
3. Does the company use a universal toner for all printers within a manufacturer?
Some suppliers try to save money by using one toner per printer model, i.e. one toner for all HP cartridges. This may not effect print quality, but it will effect yield. Each model of printer has different characteristics, which means different toners. An example of differing characteristics is the fusing temperature of the printers.
4. Are all of the companies cartridges post tested?
Some suppliers do not want to invest in all the printers, or do not do enough volume to make this affordable. This is the most important step. These cartridges have to be rebuilt by hand, which introduces human error. Forgetting one step can cause failures that can only be picked up in post-testing.
5. Does the company replace the label on the cartridge?
Some companies leave the OEM label on their cartridges; this is a copyright infringement. Other companies do not have any labels on their cartridges. This is legal, but can be confusing if you have different model printers. See if the company replaces the label with a new descriptive label, which should have the machine that the cartridge goes to on it.
Be careful of any company that will not provide you with this information. Many companies still do not have proper testing methods because of the cost. Also, beware of inexpensive cartridges. In the long run these will probably cost more, due to failures and poor print quality. Being informed is the best way to insure that you are getting the most for your money. Companies that supply a quality product will not hesitate to answer any questions you have. Companies that refuse to answer or give someone the proverbial run round probably do not have the answers. Good luck and I hope that this article can help answer your questions and save you some money.
Donald Broda
Senior Production Specialist
www.brtoner.com
donald@brtoner.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the author:
Donald Broda has worked in the laser printer industry since 1999. In that time he has been involved in remanufacturing toner cartridges, quality control, and service of Hewlett Packard Laser Printers. Please do not reprint any articles without author’s permission. Donald can be reached at donald@brtoner.com and you can visit his company website at www.brtoner.com
Remanufactured Toner Cartridges
A1-Computers
Quality remanufactured toner cartridges are now available. Remanufactured toner cartridges can actually exceed OEM quality and yield. Extensive testing and R&D have enabled this industry to produce cartridges that will not only save the customer money, but also provide a better product.
As the customer, what should you ask potential vendors about their remanufactured cartridges?
1. What yield and density did the cartridges achieve in testing?
The yield is the amount of pages the cartridge produces before running out of toner. Make sure that the testing is performed at 5% page coverage. This is the industry standard. You can ask if they used a toner head, this is the best way to achieve 5% page coverage. Be careful with companies that just give you the OEM yield, they may not have actually done any testing.
The density measures how dark the text is. The density is usually between 1.3 and 1.6. Ask how many cartridges they test to achieve their numbers. Testing one cartridge does not give an accurate measurement. Also, ask how often they test their toner/drum combinations. Suppliers change toner qualities and continued testing is important to ensure quality.
2. Does the company change any components?
Ask if the company changes the drum, wiper blade and mag roller. These components are all very important to print quality. Some lower yield cartridges do not need to have their drums changed if they are properly tested, but anything over 4,000 pages should, at least, receive a new drum.
3. Does the company use a universal toner for all printers within a manufacturer?
Some suppliers try to save money by using one toner per printer model, i.e. one toner for all HP cartridges. This may not effect print quality, but it will effect yield. Each model of printer has different characteristics, which means different toners. An example of differing characteristics is the fusing temperature of the printers.
4. Are all of the companies cartridges post tested?
Some suppliers do not want to invest in all the printers, or do not do enough volume to make this affordable. This is the most important step. These cartridges have to be rebuilt by hand, which introduces human error. Forgetting one step can cause failures that can only be picked up in post-testing.
5. Does the company replace the label on the cartridge?
Some companies leave the OEM label on their cartridges; this is a copyright infringement. Other companies do not have any labels on their cartridges. This is legal, but can be confusing if you have different model printers. See if the company replaces the label with a new descriptive label, which should have the machine that the cartridge goes to on it.
Be careful of any company that will not provide you with this information. Many companies still do not have proper testing methods because of the cost. Also, beware of inexpensive cartridges. In the long run these will probably cost more, due to failures and poor print quality. Being informed is the best way to insure that you are getting the most for your money. Companies that supply a quality product will not hesitate to answer any questions you have. Companies that refuse to answer or give someone the proverbial run round probably do not have the answers. Good luck and I hope that this article can help answer your questions and save you some money.
Donald Broda
Senior Production Specialist
www.brtoner.com
donald@brtoner.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the author:
Donald Broda has worked in the laser printer industry since 1999. In that time he has been involved in remanufacturing toner cartridges, quality control, and service of Hewlett Packard Laser Printers. Please do not reprint any articles without author’s permission. Donald can be reached at donald@brtoner.com and you can visit his company website at www.brtoner.com
Remanufactured Toner Cartridges
A1-Computers
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
4 Computer Money-saving Tips
Here are four tips that’ll save you money when buying your next computer.
Tip 1 -- Rebates: A rebate is not always a bargain. Computers with rebates are often close to being discontinued. You may pick up a good deal or purchase technology that's about to become yesterday’s news. What's more, stores will often package computers with a bunch of free items to make it look like you're getting more value. Chances are the extras are either poor quality or items you're unlikely to use. Also, they’re counting on you to not redeem your rebate, a very common occurrence.
Tip 2 -- Extended Service Warrantees: Buyer Beware! They're a gamble, but not always a bad idea. If you're purchasing a laptop and you plan to travel a lot, an extended warranty that covers replacement of the monitor/display can be a good gamble. Replacing a display can cost $400-$600, making the warranty worthwhile. On the other hand, if you plan on buying the warranty for routine maintenance; save your money. Oftentimes it can take weeks for the store to send your PC out for service. Also, remember the store where you purchased your computer does not always do warranty work during the first year, instead you may have to ship it directly to the manufacturer. In general, extended warranties cover electronics [things you can't see]. They don't usually cover physical damage. Most extended warranties have large gray areas, leaving the warranty provider a lot of room to reject claims.
Tip 3 -- Monitors: Don’t throw away your monitor if it's still working properly. Instead, keep it and save a chunk of money by just replacing your old CPU [computer tower]. Monitors last much longer than CPUs and the technology is usually compatible between your old monitor and the new CPU. However, if you’re dissatisfied, then monitors, keyboards and mouses are the three tools to spend extra money on, since you use them every day!
Tip 4 -- Networking: How are you connecting to the Internet? If you're using a high speed Internet connection, such as cable broadband or DSL, you'll want to make sure you have a network card built into your system. If you have a wireless network at home or at the office, save money and installation time by buying the wireless card built right into the computer.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the author:
Sharron Senter is co-founder of http://www.VisitingGeeks.com- an on site computer repair, security and networking company serving north of Boston, Southern NH and Maine. Visiting Geeks’ technicians are crackerjacks at squashing viruses, popups and securing and making computers perform faster. Learn more about Sharron at http://www.SharronSenter.com
I hope you enjoyed the first article I have posted by another author
B Archer
A1-Computers
Tip 1 -- Rebates: A rebate is not always a bargain. Computers with rebates are often close to being discontinued. You may pick up a good deal or purchase technology that's about to become yesterday’s news. What's more, stores will often package computers with a bunch of free items to make it look like you're getting more value. Chances are the extras are either poor quality or items you're unlikely to use. Also, they’re counting on you to not redeem your rebate, a very common occurrence.
Tip 2 -- Extended Service Warrantees: Buyer Beware! They're a gamble, but not always a bad idea. If you're purchasing a laptop and you plan to travel a lot, an extended warranty that covers replacement of the monitor/display can be a good gamble. Replacing a display can cost $400-$600, making the warranty worthwhile. On the other hand, if you plan on buying the warranty for routine maintenance; save your money. Oftentimes it can take weeks for the store to send your PC out for service. Also, remember the store where you purchased your computer does not always do warranty work during the first year, instead you may have to ship it directly to the manufacturer. In general, extended warranties cover electronics [things you can't see]. They don't usually cover physical damage. Most extended warranties have large gray areas, leaving the warranty provider a lot of room to reject claims.
Tip 3 -- Monitors: Don’t throw away your monitor if it's still working properly. Instead, keep it and save a chunk of money by just replacing your old CPU [computer tower]. Monitors last much longer than CPUs and the technology is usually compatible between your old monitor and the new CPU. However, if you’re dissatisfied, then monitors, keyboards and mouses are the three tools to spend extra money on, since you use them every day!
Tip 4 -- Networking: How are you connecting to the Internet? If you're using a high speed Internet connection, such as cable broadband or DSL, you'll want to make sure you have a network card built into your system. If you have a wireless network at home or at the office, save money and installation time by buying the wireless card built right into the computer.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the author:
Sharron Senter is co-founder of http://www.VisitingGeeks.com- an on site computer repair, security and networking company serving north of Boston, Southern NH and Maine. Visiting Geeks’ technicians are crackerjacks at squashing viruses, popups and securing and making computers perform faster. Learn more about Sharron at http://www.SharronSenter.com
I hope you enjoyed the first article I have posted by another author
B Archer
A1-Computers
Friday, March 18, 2005
Protecting Your Computer(s) From Power Surges, Data Loss, Viruses, and Spyware
Your computer can be a very expensive investment; that is why you should protect it from a power surge. If a sudden rush of electricity hits, a surge protector will blow the fuse or trip the breaker, this is what saves your computer. You should be sure to use a surge protector with a phone jack to keep the phone line from being a way for the electricity to travel to your computer. You should know that a surge protector cannot safeguard you form a direct lightning strike. If you completely unplug your computer and modem during a thunderstorm, this is the only sure way to protect your computer against lightning strikes.
You Should Protect Your Computer Data?
If your hard disk crashes it can't take all of your important saved information and software with it if you have backed it up. To protect your computer data everything should be 'backed up' by saving it to a floppy disk or compact disc, this is your best safeguard against data loss. So, periodically you should make copies of the information on your hard disk.
Protect Your Computer From VIRUSES
You must also protect your computer, data, privacy, and information from viruses and spyware; every time you install a new program, copy files, and download from the Internet you are susceptible. These days it is a must to have a good, reliable virus protection program. Be sure to get one that will review each new file and check it for viruses. Also, you should be able to get regular updates via the Internet because there are always new viruses that you will need protection from on an ongoing basis.
Thanks For Reading - See You In A Few Days
Bonnie Archer
For more information about computers and
computer accessories or to purchase them
please click below.
Computer Equipment
Computer Accessories
You Should Protect Your Computer Data?
If your hard disk crashes it can't take all of your important saved information and software with it if you have backed it up. To protect your computer data everything should be 'backed up' by saving it to a floppy disk or compact disc, this is your best safeguard against data loss. So, periodically you should make copies of the information on your hard disk.
Protect Your Computer From VIRUSES![]()
and SPYWARE
You must also protect your computer, data, privacy, and information from viruses and spyware; every time you install a new program, copy files, and download from the Internet you are susceptible. These days it is a must to have a good, reliable virus protection program. Be sure to get one that will review each new file and check it for viruses. Also, you should be able to get regular updates via the Internet because there are always new viruses that you will need protection from on an ongoing basis.
Thanks For Reading - See You In A Few Days
Bonnie Archer
For more information about computers and
computer accessories or to purchase them
please click below.
Computer Equipment
Computer Accessories
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
Site Index II
We have added many more information pages to our site and so we have created Site Index II. This will help you to easily navigate all of our helpful articles.
More Articles and Tips
Remanufactured Toner Cartridges vs. OEM (original manufacturer) Cartridges Quality remanufactured toner cartridges are now available. Remanufactured toner cartridges can actually exceed OEM quality and yield. Extensive testing and R&D have enabled this industry to produce cartridges that will not only save the customer money, but also provide a better product.
Here are four tips that will save you money when buying your next computer.Four Computer Money-Saving Tips - Tip 1 --Rebates: A rebate is not always a bargain. Computers with rebates are often close to being discontinued...
The New iPod The fourth generation iPod is on the market. The new iPod operates much more efficiently, has more features and costs less!
Meet The iPod Shuffle
Time to mix things up with the unpredictable new iPod shuffle. Can it read your mind? What will it play next? Can it read your moods? Load it up - put it on. See where it will take you. Choose from pocket size 512MB or 1G models that start at $99. - Surprise yourself!
Inkjet Printers: How Much Do They Really Cost?
There are inkjet printers for every budget. At the low end, you can pay less than $50. At the high-end, you can pay several hundred dollars. However, the purchase price of an inkjet printer is not the best way to determine
how good of a bargain you are getting.
Buying The Perfect Computer The FIRST Time. Searching for that Perfect Computer can be about as much fun as...
How To Take Care Of Your Laptop Computer. As the proud owner of a laptop computer, you will want to keep your machine in the best
possible condition.
Top 9 Ways To "Speed Up" Your Surfing & Computing It seems like fast never quite rates fast enough. No matter how quickly something moves, especially on the Internet, it could always move faster.
10 CD Burning Tips For The Computer-Savvy There is more to burning CDs than just burning them. The following article shows you how to ensure your CD burning success.
5 Ways to Speed Up Your PC: No matter how fast your processor and regardless of how much ram you carry, there comes a time when you realize your computer just doesn't run as fast as it did when you bought it.
Time to mix things up with the unpredictable new iPod shuffle. Can it read your mind? What will it play next? Can it read your moods? Load it up - put it on. See where it will take you. Choose from pocket size 512MB or 1G models that start at $99. - Surprise yourself!
There are inkjet printers for every budget. At the low end, you can pay less than $50. At the high-end, you can pay several hundred dollars. However, the purchase price of an inkjet printer is not the best way to determine
how good of a bargain you are getting.
possible condition.
Saturday, March 12, 2005
Protecting Your Computer
Protecting Your Computer From: Power Surges, Data Loss, Viruses, And Spyware.
Your computer is a very expensive investment; you should protect it from a power surge. If a sudden rush of electricity hits, a surge protector will blow the fuse or trip the breaker, this is what saves your computer. You should be sure to use a surge protector with a phone jack to keep the phone line from being a way for the electricity to travel to your computer. A surge protector cannot safeguard you form a direct lightning strike. If you completely unplug your computer and modem during a thunderstorm, this is the only sure way to protect your computer against lightning strikes.
Protect Your Computer Data?
If your hard disk crashes it can't take all of your important saved information and software with it if you have backed it up. To protect your computer data everything should be 'backed up' by saving it to a floppy disk or compact disc, this is your best safeguard against data loss. So, periodically you should make copies of the information on your hard disk.
You must also protect your computer, data, privacy, and information from viruses and spyware;Questions To Answer Before Buying That New Computer Monitor
Thinking of Buying a Refurbished Computer?
Your computer is a very expensive investment; you should protect it from a power surge. If a sudden rush of electricity hits, a surge protector will blow the fuse or trip the breaker, this is what saves your computer. You should be sure to use a surge protector with a phone jack to keep the phone line from being a way for the electricity to travel to your computer. A surge protector cannot safeguard you form a direct lightning strike. If you completely unplug your computer and modem during a thunderstorm, this is the only sure way to protect your computer against lightning strikes.
Protect Your Computer Data?
If your hard disk crashes it can't take all of your important saved information and software with it if you have backed it up. To protect your computer data everything should be 'backed up' by saving it to a floppy disk or compact disc, this is your best safeguard against data loss. So, periodically you should make copies of the information on your hard disk.
You must also protect your computer, data, privacy, and information from viruses and spyware;
Protect Your Computer From Viruses and Spyware
VIRUS Protection
You must also protect your computer, data, privacy, and information from viruses and spyware; every time you install a new program, copy files, and download from the Internet you are susceptible. These days it is a must to have a good, reliable virus protection program. Be sure to get one that will review each new file and check it for viruses. Also, you should be able to get regular updates via the Internet because there are always new viruses that you will need protection from on an ongoing basis.
Author: Bonnie Archer is a successful author and publisher of http://www.A1-computers.net. A great source of information about computers and computer accessories.
Thursday, March 10, 2005
Never Used A Computer Mouse Before?
A lesson for beginning computer mouse users.
How to hold the computer mouse:
Hold the sides of the mouse with your thumb on one side and ring finger or pinkie, which ever feels more comfortable to you, on the other side. Your index finger goes on the left button and your middle finger on the right button. (Some computer mice only have one button, some have several, some have a wheel which you can use your middle finger to depress the wheel then turn it up or down to scroll pages very quickly or slow depending on how quickly you turn the wheel. Personally I love the wheel and would not have a mouse without it!) When you are told to 'click' use the button under your index finger(or the left button).
How To Move the computer mouse:
Slowly slide the mouse around on the mouse pad. See what happens to the arrow on the screen as you slide it around.
Mouse pad:
You should have a mouse pad under your computer mouse, (although the new optic mice do not require one). You will have an array of choices when purchasing a mouse pad; find the one that is comfortable for you. Rest you hand on the mouse pad or desk and move it slowly there is no need to lift the mouse off the mouse pad unless you run out of room, then you just lift it up and reposition where needed. You don't need to move the mouse to the left or right, simply slide it left or right with the buttons still facing away from you.
Clicking:
Clicking sends a command to the computer. To click, gently press and release the left computer mouse button. Be careful not to move the mouse while you are clicking, if you accidentally do simply slide the mouse back to where you want to click and try again. Try to keep you hand relaxed on the mouse as you press and release without lifting your finger completely off the button.
Done, that is all you need to know to start using your computer and that computer mouse. Keep working on it and before you know it, it will feel like second nature to you and you will not even have to think about what you are doing, you will just do it.
Note:
Most libraries have free computer classes for the beginner, if you feel you need hands on help this would be the perfect place to start!
Bonnie Archer
Never Used A Computer Mouse Before?
A1-Computers.net
How to hold the computer mouse:
Hold the sides of the mouse with your thumb on one side and ring finger or pinkie, which ever feels more comfortable to you, on the other side. Your index finger goes on the left button and your middle finger on the right button. (Some computer mice only have one button, some have several, some have a wheel which you can use your middle finger to depress the wheel then turn it up or down to scroll pages very quickly or slow depending on how quickly you turn the wheel. Personally I love the wheel and would not have a mouse without it!) When you are told to 'click' use the button under your index finger(or the left button).
How To Move the computer mouse:
Slowly slide the mouse around on the mouse pad. See what happens to the arrow on the screen as you slide it around.
Mouse pad:
You should have a mouse pad under your computer mouse, (although the new optic mice do not require one). You will have an array of choices when purchasing a mouse pad; find the one that is comfortable for you. Rest you hand on the mouse pad or desk and move it slowly there is no need to lift the mouse off the mouse pad unless you run out of room, then you just lift it up and reposition where needed. You don't need to move the mouse to the left or right, simply slide it left or right with the buttons still facing away from you.
Clicking:
Clicking sends a command to the computer. To click, gently press and release the left computer mouse button. Be careful not to move the mouse while you are clicking, if you accidentally do simply slide the mouse back to where you want to click and try again. Try to keep you hand relaxed on the mouse as you press and release without lifting your finger completely off the button.
Done, that is all you need to know to start using your computer and that computer mouse. Keep working on it and before you know it, it will feel like second nature to you and you will not even have to think about what you are doing, you will just do it.
Note:
Most libraries have free computer classes for the beginner, if you feel you need hands on help this would be the perfect place to start!
Bonnie Archer
Friday, March 04, 2005
Meet the iPod Shuffle!
Time to mix things up, the unpredictable new iPod. Can it read your mind? What will it play next? Can it read your moods? Load it up - put it on. See where it will take you.
Choose from pocket size 512MB or 1G models that start at $99. - Surprise yourself!
Random is the order of this iPod
The iPod Shuffle Songs setting takes you on a unique journey through your music collection. You’ll never know what is around the next tune. Welcome to a life less orderly--iPod shuffle shuns routine by serving up your favorite songs in a new order every time you listen.
You can just plug iPod shuffle into your computer's USB port and let iTunes auto fill it with up to 240 songs and get a different experience with each connection.
The trail you run daily looks and sounds different with an iPod shuffle. That daily traffic jam even seems enjoyable when you are listening and not knowing what song will come on next.
Love it - Lose control - Have FUN!
A1-Computers Accessories
Four Computer Money-Saving Tips
Here are four tips that will save you money when buying your next computer.
Choose from pocket size 512MB or 1G models that start at $99. - Surprise yourself!
Random is the order of this iPod
The iPod Shuffle Songs setting takes you on a unique journey through your music
collection. You’ll never know what is around the next tune. Welcome to a life less orderly--iPod shuffle shuns routine by serving up your favorite songs in a new order every time you listen.You can just plug iPod shuffle into your computer's USB port and let iTunes auto fill it with up to 240 songs and get a different experience with each connection.
The trail you run daily looks and sounds different with an iPod shuffle. That daily traffic jam even seems enjoyable when you are listening and not knowing what song will come on next.
Love it - Lose control - Have FUN!
Here are four tips that will save you money when buying your next computer.
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
How To Make Music CD's Using Your MP3 Files
Its great to play your downloaded MP3 files or WMA music on your home stereo or your portable CD player? With Music Match Jukebox it’s fairly easy. (You can get a free version) So get together your MP3 and WMA music files that you would like to put on CD and lets get started!
First, download to your computer a copy of Music Match Jukebox at Music Match.com The free version is great for most purposes, but if you are really into this, the plus version has more features and will burn the CD's much quicker.
Now close any programs you may have running including your email and any browsers.
Next, open Music Match and see if the files you want to copy to CD are listed in the library. If not simply click on the button labeled 'add to library' and wait as it searches your hard drive for all music files, including MP3 files.
If the play list is not empty simply click on the button labeled clear. Now drag the MP3 files you want to burn from the Library to the play list window, which is in the upper right hand corner. Just drag each item up or down to rearrange the track order.
After you have chosen all the tracks you would liked burned on this CD simply insert a blank, recordable CD in to your CD recorder.
Click Burn
Music Match automatically calculates the total usable space on your blank CD and if you have too many tracks it will let you know so you can take some off.
If you did not have too many tracks your CD should now be burning. This can take 2-20 minutes depending on your recorder speed. Try not to use your computer until the CD is completed to keep it from having corrupt songs.
Your MP3 files should now be in there new format and ready to use in your home stereo or portable CD player. Enjoy you new CD! Congratulate yourself on leaning something new today!!
Extra Tips
1) If your computer has been running for a long time it would be a best to restart it before burning a CD.
2) Music Match has a volume leveling feature which will correct some files from being louder than others. To use it simply click, Options-Recorder-settings and then check the box labeled 'prepare tracks for volume leveling'.
3) Be sure to only use CD-R blanks because most music CD players can't read CD-RW disks.
A1-Computers
First, download to your computer a copy of Music Match Jukebox at Music Match.com The free version is great for most purposes, but if you are really into this, the plus version has more features and will burn the CD's much quicker.
Now close any programs you may have running including your email and any browsers.
Next, open Music Match and see if the files you want to copy to CD are listed in the library. If not simply click on the button labeled 'add to library' and wait as it searches your hard drive for all music files, including MP3 files.
If the play list is not empty simply click on the button labeled clear. Now drag the MP3 files you want to burn from the Library to the play list window, which is in the upper right hand corner. Just drag each item up or down to rearrange the track order.
After you have chosen all the tracks you would liked burned on this CD simply insert a blank, recordable CD in to your CD recorder.
Click Burn
Music Match automatically calculates the total usable space on your blank CD and if you have too many tracks it will let you know so you can take some off.
If you did not have too many tracks your CD should now be burning. This can take 2-20 minutes depending on your recorder speed. Try not to use your computer until the CD is completed to keep it from having corrupt songs.
Your MP3 files should now be in there new format and ready to use in your home stereo or portable CD player. Enjoy you new CD! Congratulate yourself on leaning something new today!!
Extra Tips
1) If your computer has been running for a long time it would be a best to restart it before burning a CD.
2) Music Match has a volume leveling feature which will correct some files from being louder than others. To use it simply click, Options-Recorder-settings and then check the box labeled 'prepare tracks for volume leveling'.
3) Be sure to only use CD-R blanks because most music CD players can't read CD-RW disks.
A1-Computers
Friday, February 25, 2005
Buying A New Printer
If you are looking for, an ink jet, monochrome laser, or a color laser printer, you will find the information here that you need to buy a new printer.
Different printers do different jobs. We will go over them feature by feature. When buying a new printer most people try to balance price, speed, and print quality. Ink jet printers and digital cameras are changing the way we print pictures. Ink jet printers have become one of the best options for turning a digital image into a photograph. The price is right and you can now get a high quality photo from home.
Monochrome laser printers have text quality so good and uniform that the output samples are almost indistinguishable. Features are the main selling point. Because of the extra paper trays and more memory, laser printers can print more efficiently. Also, they come with more capable drivers and easier remote management. Color lasers are dropping in price and because of this more users can afford adding color to their workplace documents. So far the least expensive color laser we have seen is around $1000.
Print Quality:
All color laser and monochrome laser printers print razor sharp text. Color lasers can print color charts and two-dimensional graphics pretty well but they don't match what an ink jet printer can do with a photograph. Ink jet photos are beautiful but most of them will produce somewhat fuzzy and jagged font test, it just cannot reproduce the fine line detail of line art or graphics.
Resolution:
To determine print quality and speed is not by looking at the resolution specifics, instead just print out a sample and see for yourself. This is because most any inkjet on the market can print a beautiful 8 x 10 photo, that is how good the modern printers have become. Fairly modest resolutions for laser printers suffice for printing sharp text and simple graphics.
Cost Per Page:
The cost of ink has the biggest impact on overall cost over time. Generally you will pay $21 to $38 for a three-color cartridge and $12 to $34 for a separate black cartridge. Most of the time the cheaper the cartridge, the less ink you get; usually 300 to 800 pages per cartridge.
Monochrome and color laser cartridges cost around 2 to 4 cents per page for black text. The color laser has separate toner cartridges for each color and these can cost up $250 each, but black is cheaper. Even though this sounds really expensive the per page cost is cheaper than ink jet because the yield is much higher which ranges from 6000 to 12,000 pages per cartridge.
Features:
Ink jet printers all offer pretty much the same features; a paper tray that holds 50-150 sheets or 10 envelops. They have minimal buffer memory and no networking option. But there are a few manufacturers that offer a business oriented ink jet with higher capacities, larger paper trays, wireless networking and extra memory.
Lasers printers are made more for businesses with their features. Monochrome laser holds up to 600 sheets of paper and color up to 1200. You can even get optional trays that hold up to 5000 sheets of paper. Corporate lasers usually include at the least, 8MB of RAM and can be expanded to get up to five times that amount for queuing multiple print jobs at one time.
Photo Printing:
Several quality in jet printers include features like a dedicated USB port for connection your digital camera directly to your printer. Built in media card slots that where you can plug in a storage card and hit a button for instant prints and an LCD menu for selecting your prints. With either of these two options you do not need a computer. You will get beautiful photos with these printers. Don't rule out general-purpose ink jet printers, because they can serve very well as photo printer also. If you change your setting to 'best' or 'photo' mode and use the premium photo paper these inexpensive (around only $100.) printers can give you high quality photos.
Bonnie Archer
Computer Accessories
A1-computers
Different printers do different jobs. We will go over them feature by feature. When buying a new printer most people try to balance price, speed, and print quality. Ink jet printers and digital cameras are changing the way we print pictures. Ink jet printers have become one of the best options for turning a digital image into a photograph. The price is right and you can now get a high quality photo from home.
Monochrome laser printers have text quality so good and uniform that the output samples are almost indistinguishable. Features are the main selling point. Because of the extra paper trays and more memory, laser printers can print more efficiently. Also, they come with more capable drivers and easier remote management. Color lasers are dropping in price and because of this more users can afford adding color to their workplace documents. So far the least expensive color laser we have seen is around $1000.
Print Quality:
All color laser and monochrome laser printers print razor sharp text. Color lasers can print color charts and two-dimensional graphics pretty well but they don't match what an ink jet printer can do with a photograph. Ink jet photos are beautiful but most of them will produce somewhat fuzzy and jagged font test, it just cannot reproduce the fine line detail of line art or graphics.
Resolution:
To determine print quality and speed is not by looking at the resolution specifics, instead just print out a sample and see for yourself. This is because most any inkjet on the market can print a beautiful 8 x 10 photo, that is how good the modern printers have become. Fairly modest resolutions for laser printers suffice for printing sharp text and simple graphics.
Cost Per Page:
The cost of ink has the biggest impact on overall cost over time. Generally you will pay $21 to $38 for a three-color cartridge and $12 to $34 for a separate black cartridge. Most of the time the cheaper the cartridge, the less ink you get; usually 300 to 800 pages per cartridge.
Monochrome and color laser cartridges cost around 2 to 4 cents per page for black text. The color laser has separate toner cartridges for each color and these can cost up $250 each, but black is cheaper. Even though this sounds really expensive the per page cost is cheaper than ink jet because the yield is much higher which ranges from 6000 to 12,000 pages per cartridge.
Features:
Ink jet printers all offer pretty much the same features; a paper tray that holds 50-150 sheets or 10 envelops. They have minimal buffer memory and no networking option. But there are a few manufacturers that offer a business oriented ink jet with higher capacities, larger paper trays, wireless networking and extra memory.
Lasers printers are made more for businesses with their features. Monochrome laser holds up to 600 sheets of paper and color up to 1200. You can even get optional trays that hold up to 5000 sheets of paper. Corporate lasers usually include at the least, 8MB of RAM and can be expanded to get up to five times that amount for queuing multiple print jobs at one time.
Photo Printing:
Several quality in jet printers include features like a dedicated USB port for connection your digital camera directly to your printer. Built in media card slots that where you can plug in a storage card and hit a button for instant prints and an LCD menu for selecting your prints. With either of these two options you do not need a computer. You will get beautiful photos with these printers. Don't rule out general-purpose ink jet printers, because they can serve very well as photo printer also. If you change your setting to 'best' or 'photo' mode and use the premium photo paper these inexpensive (around only $100.) printers can give you high quality photos.
Bonnie Archer
Computer Accessories
A1-computers
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Buying a Personal Computer (PC)
For so many people the computer industry is a seeming unsolvable jungle filled with mysterious words. Here is a guide to help you understand the personal computer and to give you the information needed to make a shopping decision you can live with so you can enjoy your PC for years to come.
A few short years ago the average 'cheaper' personal computer cost was about $1500. - $2000. And this price did not necessarily include the power to edit videos, pictures, or play games. For that you would have had to spend more on upgrades. Now things such as video editing are standard on the newest personal computers. PC’s have become less expensive than ever before and they come with more capabilities than ever.
The personal computer you purchase will depend upon what it will be used for. Will you be surfing the Internet and email, working in spreadsheets, playing video games? Who is using the PC and what are there interests? More than likely you will have to accommodate a combination of these or maybe even all of them.
Most personal computers today offer very similar capabilities so your real decision will be based upon specialties. For instance if you are mainly interested in gaming than you will be sure to spend more for a good 3D graphics card. If you want to make music you will need a good sound card. If you work all day on your computer or use it for photo editing you will want to invest in a better monitor. Also, make sure your PC has enough memory to quickly work the tasks you have planed.
To sum it up; for the best value for your dollar spend your money on the personal computer components that will best suit your needs.
Bonnie Archer
Desktop PC
A1-computers
A few short years ago the average 'cheaper' personal computer cost was about $1500. - $2000. And this price did not necessarily include the power to edit videos, pictures, or play games. For that you would have had to spend more on upgrades. Now things such as video editing are standard on the newest personal computers. PC’s have become less expensive than ever before and they come with more capabilities than ever.
The personal computer you purchase will depend upon what it will be used for. Will you be surfing the Internet and email, working in spreadsheets, playing video games? Who is using the PC and what are there interests? More than likely you will have to accommodate a combination of these or maybe even all of them.
Most personal computers today offer very similar capabilities so your real decision will be based upon specialties. For instance if you are mainly interested in gaming than you will be sure to spend more for a good 3D graphics card. If you want to make music
you will need a good sound card. If you work all day on your computer or use it for photo editing you will want to invest in a better monitor. Also, make sure your PC has enough memory to quickly work the tasks you have planed.To sum it up; for the best value for your dollar spend your money on the personal computer components that will best suit your needs.
Bonnie Archer
Desktop PC
A1-computers
Monday, February 21, 2005
Decide On A PC Monitor Before You Buy Your New Computer Equipment
Before you buy your new computer equipment you will want to decide on a PC monitor. After all you will be staring at it for the next few years! You will need to decide on the image quality, resolution, size, and type (CRT-LCD).
Your new PC monitor should have enough screen space for what you will be doing. The viewable size is about an inch smaller that the advertised tube size on CRTs. The best size for most people is 17-19 inch. Either of these sizes should be plenty for most computer equipment needs. An LCD screen is the full size it says so it really takes up a lot less space than the CRT, inch for inch.
Is an LCD PC monitor for you?
For most computer users a 17 inch LCD is the optimal desktop pc monitor. A 15 inch is cheaper but will seem quite small if your current computer equipment as a 17 inch CRT. 17 inch will be most comfortable in size and price. The price is much higher when you get to an 18 to 19 inch PC monitor.
Maybe a CRT PC monitor is for you?
The 19 inch flat screen is great, the price is about the same as a conventional but the picture quality is much greater. Also, it will take up much less desk space then the conventional PC monitor.
Important Note From PCworld Magazine:
When you are finished using your current computer equipment never, ever send your old PC monitor to the dump. Recycle it instead. It's not only good for the environment, but it's also a legal requirement in some states that will not accept PC monitors in regular municipal landfills. CRTs contain four to six pounds of lead plus other toxic materials that leach into the soil and water if not properly disposed. Check with the vendor or your local government to find recyclers in your area that can handle CRTs.
Bonnie Archer
Desktop PCs
A1-computers.net : Computer Equipment
Your new PC monitor should have enough screen space for what you will be doing. The viewable size is about an inch smaller that the advertised tube size on CRTs. The best size for most people is 17-19 inch. Either of these sizes should be plenty for most computer equipment needs. An LCD screen is the full size it says so it really takes up a lot less space than the CRT, inch for inch.
Would A LCD or CRT PC Monitor Fit Your Style of Computer Equipment?
Is an LCD PC monitor for you?
For most computer users a 17 inch LCD is the optimal desktop pc monitor. A 15 inch is cheaper but will seem quite small if your current computer equipment as a 17 inch CRT. 17 inch will be most comfortable in size and price. The price is much higher when you get to an 18 to 19 inch PC monitor.
Maybe a CRT PC monitor is for you?
The 19 inch flat screen is great, the price is about the same as a conventional but the picture quality is much greater. Also, it will take up much less desk space then the conventional PC monitor.
Important Note From PCworld Magazine:
When you are finished using your current computer equipment never, ever send your old PC monitor to the dump. Recycle it instead. It's not only good for the environment, but it's also a legal requirement in some states that will not accept PC monitors in regular municipal landfills. CRTs contain four to six pounds of lead plus other toxic materials that leach into the soil and water if not properly disposed. Check with the vendor or your local government to find recyclers in your area that can handle CRTs.
Bonnie Archer
Friday, February 18, 2005
What To Look For When buying a Desktop PC
Make an informed decision before buying your new computer: There are so many factors to consider when deciding on a desktop pc, the bewildering amount of choices can seem overwhelming. But this guide will help you compare desktop computer equipment, and help you to examine and sift through many of the basic items that go along with your computer system. If it be a computer sale, new computer, used computer, a whole computer system or an accessory, this quick guide will help you to get the most for your money. With today's computers almost any of them will adequately handle what most people want a pc for; word processing, basic office, internet surfing and email. Which you can easily get for $1000. or less!
But if you are into digital videos, photo editing or manage a large database you will need more than the basic Desktop PC. It should cost you around $1500. to $2000., and should keep you happy for a few years.
(CPU) Processors
There is always a lot of change in the computer market, but no matter what the upgrades there is always two basic choices to be made when purchasing a Desktop PC:
1) brand 2) speed For a desktop pc that handles standard office and Internet tasks any processor will work.
Need more power? Then the Intel Pentium4 or the AMD Athlon XP (great for graphics and photos which use a lot of memory space) are for you. If you buy one or two levels from the top you will only lose about five percent per tier performance but you can save a couple hundred dollars!
(RAM) Memory
Memory is very important because optimum running of your desktop pc is dependent on enough RAM. The minimum amount should be 256MB, for better performance you should get 512MB. If you can afford more get it, its worth it because you can keep more applications open and it will handle memory hogs like Photoshop and music applications!
All current systems use DDR memory, the most common would be PC3200, and budget may still be using the older PC2100 or PC2700 DDR. To allow for future upgrades of memory you should buy as few DIMMs as possible.
Also, your motherboard determines the kind of RAM your computer system will use. You can't substitute DDR SDRAM for RDRAM or PC133 SDRAM. The price difference is
minuet and sometimes not at all. Tests show DDR provides a boost over PC133, so DDR is the best buy.
Monitors
Look for a monitor that is at least 17" with a resolution of 1280 by 1024 pixels. A Desktop PC with a 19-inch monitor gives you 20 % more screen area. If you can spend $300-$450 you might want to get a 15" LCD because it has the same viewable area as the 17" CRT and takes up much less space.
Hard Drives (storage)
Most hard drives sold today will provide more than enough storage. Most basic Desktop PCs come with 40GB or larger, which is plenty for most tasks. But for working with graphics, video, music, or large databases 80GB should be the minimum you settle for. 7200-rpm drives give better performance. But for the best performance get a computer with 8MB of cache.
Warranty and Tech Support
A one-year warranty on most Desktop PCs is enough because most problems seem to happen in the first year. If you want you can get a two to three year warranty for around $150. to $200. If you buy a Dell you can get priority call routing to tech support for a year for only $39.
Desktop PC
But if you are into digital videos, photo editing or manage a large database you will need more than the basic Desktop PC. It should cost you around $1500. to $2000., and should keep you happy for a few years.
(CPU) Processors
There is always a lot of change in the computer market, but no matter what the upgrades there is always two basic choices to be made when purchasing a Desktop PC:
1) brand 2) speed For a desktop pc that handles standard office and Internet tasks any processor will work.
Need more power? Then the Intel Pentium4 or the AMD Athlon XP (great for graphics and photos which use a lot of memory space) are for you. If you buy one or two levels from the top you will only lose about five percent per tier performance but you can save a couple hundred dollars!
(RAM) Memory
Memory is very important because optimum running of your desktop pc is dependent on enough RAM. The minimum amount should be 256MB, for better performance you should get 512MB. If you can afford more get it, its worth it because you can keep more applications open and it will handle memory hogs like Photoshop and music applications!
All current systems use DDR memory, the most common would be PC3200, and budget may still be using the older PC2100 or PC2700 DDR. To allow for future upgrades of memory you should buy as few DIMMs as possible.
Also, your motherboard determines the kind of RAM your computer system will use. You can't substitute DDR SDRAM for RDRAM or PC133 SDRAM. The price difference is
minuet and sometimes not at all. Tests show DDR provides a boost over PC133, so DDR is the best buy.
Monitors
Look for a monitor that is at least 17" with a resolution of 1280 by 1024 pixels. A Desktop PC with a 19-inch monitor gives you 20 % more screen area. If you can spend $300-$450 you might want to get a 15" LCD because it has the same viewable area as the 17" CRT and takes up much less space.
Hard Drives (storage)
Most hard drives sold today will provide more than enough storage. Most basic Desktop PCs come with 40GB or larger, which is plenty for most tasks. But for working with graphics, video, music, or large databases 80GB should be the minimum you settle for. 7200-rpm drives give better performance. But for the best performance get a computer with 8MB of cache.
Warranty and Tech Support
A one-year warranty on most Desktop PCs is enough because most problems seem to happen in the first year. If you want you can get a two to three year warranty for around $150. to $200. If you buy a Dell you can get priority call routing to tech support for a year for only $39.
Friday, February 11, 2005
What Is A Refurbished Computer?
Why buy 'new' computer equipment when you can get the same refurbished computer at up to 80% savings and there is no difference in the quality or warranty? Statistics show that people who have already bought a factory refurbished computer will never buy 'new' computer again! Manufacturers are so sure about there refurbished computer equipment that they offer the original warranties.
Exactly what is considered factory refurbished computer equipment?
A lot of things can be labeled factory refurbished. So frivolous are some that it's silly enough to make you laugh! Consumer laws prevent manufacturers from selling anything considered factory refurbished as new, so the second consumer gets the best deal and its just like a new computer!
For example, most major retail stores offer a 30 day money back guarantee on their computer equipment and some consumers take advantage of this. So when the new computer is returned, the manufacturer inspects the product and repackages it like new. But it can't be sold as new now so you get a great price with the original warranty, now its considerd a refurbished computer. Other reasons may be the box was damaged in shipment and so it was returned, a slight defect, the defective part is replaced by the manufacturer, tested and then repackaged just like new. Maybe a minor cosmetic blemish on the casing that was corrected. Demonstration units are also considerd factory refurbished computers. They are also inspected, tested and repackaged. The box was simply opened or brand new items that have been overstocked are also labeled factory refurbished.
Its hard to tell the history of each and every refurbished computer item but what ever the reason for the refurbished label you can be sure that the computer equipment has been inspected and serviced by the manufacturer then tested and repackaged to meet original product specifications, just like a new computer. And like I said before, all computer equipment merchandise is warranted by the original manufacturer unless otherwise specified.
Why buy a refurbished computer?
Well, to save MONEY! Why not get the best value while getting the exact same computer equipment? Also, you get the original manufacturers warranty and get a much, much lower price on your new computer.
Now with refurbished computer equipment you can afford that item which has been just out of your reach because it cost too much. And you will get the same performance! Actually refurbished items have a much lower defect rate than new ones. Only one in ten units that come back for repair is usually a factory refurb! That is because they are closely tested before they are sold. The only difference you may notice is a little label on the outside of the box or simply a brown box. So think hard before your purchase, are you shopping smart?
Bonnie Archer
Refurbished Computers
Exactly what is considered factory refurbished computer equipment?
A lot of things can be labeled factory refurbished. So frivolous are some that it's silly enough to make you laugh! Consumer laws prevent manufacturers from selling anything considered factory refurbished as new, so the second consumer gets the best deal and its just like a new computer!
For example, most major retail stores offer a 30 day money back guarantee on their computer equipment and some consumers take advantage of this. So when the new computer is returned, the manufacturer inspects the product and repackages it like new. But it can't be sold as new now so you get a great price with the original warranty, now its considerd a refurbished computer. Other reasons may be the box was damaged in shipment and so it was returned, a slight defect, the defective part is replaced by the manufacturer, tested and then repackaged just like new. Maybe a minor cosmetic blemish on the casing that was corrected. Demonstration units are also considerd factory refurbished computers. They are also inspected, tested and repackaged. The box was simply opened or brand new items that have been overstocked are also labeled factory refurbished.
Its hard to tell the history of each and every refurbished computer item but what ever the reason for the refurbished label you can be sure that the computer equipment has been inspected and serviced by the manufacturer then tested and repackaged to meet original product specifications, just like a new computer. And like I said before, all computer equipment merchandise is warranted by the original manufacturer unless otherwise specified.
Why buy a refurbished computer?
Well, to save MONEY! Why not get the best value while getting the exact same computer equipment? Also, you get the original manufacturers warranty and get a much, much lower price on your new computer.
Now with refurbished computer equipment you can afford that item which has been just out of your reach because it cost too much. And you will get the same performance! Actually refurbished items have a much lower defect rate than new ones. Only one in ten units that come back for repair is usually a factory refurb! That is because they are closely tested before they are sold. The only difference you may notice is a little label on the outside of the box or simply a brown box. So think hard before your purchase, are you shopping smart?
Bonnie Archer
Refurbished Computers
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
Digital Cameras Are A Fun And Convenient Computer Accessory
Digital cameras are one of the most fun computer accessories - wouldn't you like to send some pictures to some friends and family by e-mail? A digital camera is the easiest way to do that. Also, it is the easiest way to get pictures onto your computer. You can also print them from your computer equipment, most modern printers print great quality photos. The best part is that you can see the pictures instantly on the camera's LCD screen with the review feature, or load them onto your computer.
Digital cameras make it so easy to get great pictures because you can see how they turned out and re-take it if necessary. No waiting for film to be developed either, just load onto your computer with the software program that comes with the digital camera, and print. There are lots of different sizes, prices, and brands to choose from. So have some fun -- get a digital camera today! One of the greatest computer accessories you will want and love to use.
B. Archer
A1-Computers - Digital Cameras
Digital cameras make it so easy to get great pictures because you can see how they turned out and re-take it if necessary. No waiting for film to be developed either, just load onto your computer with the software program that comes with the digital camera, and print. There are lots of different sizes, prices, and brands to choose from. So have some fun -- get a digital camera today! One of the greatest computer accessories you will want and love to use.
B. Archer
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