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Setting Up Your PC for Dual-monitors: It's Easier Than You Think

Written by oneself on 6:46 AM


By Preston Wily

The traditional view of a "PC"


If you ask just about anybody what their idea of a "PC system" is they will probably list a tower, a keyboard, a mouse and a monitor. While it is true that these are the essential elements of using a personal computer, it is becoming more and more popular to use an alternative setup.

Sometimes two is better than one


It is becoming increasingly more common to see people using two towers with one keyboard, video and monitor. This is accomplished through the use of a KVM switch - as you probably already guessed, KVM standard for keyboard-video-mouse. This is great for people who need more computing power than they can get with one machine. A good example of this would be in a graphic design environment where you are consuming a high percentage of your available RAM and CPU power to run heavy editing applications.

Sometimes you need more room to be productive


For some people computing power is not a huge issue, but they could use more desktop space: enter the dual-screen setup. This allows you to have two monitors that essentially share your desktop. You can drag items from one monitor to another and if you have a long window you want to view, you can sprawl it out across both monitors. This is great when you need to use another screen as a reference or you want a static window that you can always check (with stock symbols, sales figures, etc.).

It's not that hard to do


A lot of people see dual-screen setups and they think that it's hard to do - it's really not. First of all you need a dual-monitor video card. Do not try to use two single-port video cards - you will probably have IRQ conflicts that will keep you from using both at the same time - special software is bundled with all dual-port video cards that allows both ports to peacefully co-exist.

DVI vs. VGA


For some reason most dual-port video cards have one VGA port and one DVI port. I am not saying that dual-port VGA or dual-port DVI cards don't exist, but I have never seen one. This can be kind of a pain because you might have two VGA monitors or two DVI monitors. Don't worry - there is a solution. You can easily find a DVI-to-VGA adapter or a VGA-to-DVI adapter from just about anyone who sells you a video card. Be aware that if you have two DVI monitors that your DVI signal will be downgraded to analog, but the quality loss is almost unnoticable unless you have a huge monitor. Also, using a VGA-to-DVI adapter will not upscale your signal to a digital signal - it will pass an analog signal through the DVI port.

You will need to install included software


Regardless of where you buy the card from there will be some software that you will have to install to get your new setup to work. As I mentioned earlier, this will resolve any IRQ conflicts that would otherwise arise and give you some cool options for your desktop such as specifying which monitor should be the right-side of the desktop and which should be the left.

Be sure to uninstall your old card first


Whether you choose to use an AGP video card or PCI, you should definitely remove your existing video card first (and disable any software related to the old monitor). This will remove the possibility of a driver conflict and make you and the computer much happier in the long-run.

Preston Wily is the Director of Marketing for an online retailer of computer hardware and accessories. He also operates his own internet marketing blog and does marketing consulting for small-to-medium business owners.

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Super Talent Solid State Drive 32GB

Written by oneself on 4:55 AM

by Anna More

The Super Talent 32GB SATA flash hard drive is based on solid state flash components. They have no moving parts which gives then the advantage greater reliability than other hard drives. And it is excellent to shock and vibrations. These SSD drives consume about 85% less power and they produce lesser heat than rotating magnetic drives. They offer a faster transfer speed compared to magnetic drives and faster access speed.

The Super Talent 32GB SATA flash hard drive is based on solid state flash components. They have no moving parts which gives then the advantage greater reliability than other hard drives. Shock exposure and vibrations are completely harmless to the solid state drive from Super Talent since it has no physical moving parts. These SSD drives consume about 85% less power and they produce lesser heat than rotating magnetic drives. They offer a faster transfer speed compared to magnetic drives and faster access speed.

Super Talent 32GB SATA flash hard drives are designed for ultimate reliability and durability. Super Talent 32GB SATA flash hard drives come in 1.8 inch, 2.5 inch and 3.5 inch for a 128GB drive. Super Talent manufacturers offer both plastic and aluminum for your casing options. Plastic is more lightweight and aluminum being more durable and rugged.

One of the key features of this Super Talent 32GB SATA flash hard drive is power efficiency. Because it has no motors than any conventional hard drive demands. Lower power causes less heat produced inside that needs to be drawn out, which means cooler components and the cooling fan will have a lighter load on his part. And you get too enjoy on a longer battery life because of less power produced.

Another feature is that it has a fast recovery speed from sleep mode. Unlike the conventional hard drives they take time from recovering from the sleep mode. Since the SSD is always set in ready mode, it takes only a second to recover to full operation. The Super Talent flash hard drive is lighter than most hard drives. It is lighter because it has no motors. It produces a silent operation than most hard drives because it has no moving parts and the cooling fan compared to conventional hard drives are far less to produce noise.

SSD drives have the advantage of being far more rugged and reliable than any regular hard drives. They are built using the Flash technology for faster and smoother performance. Flash technology means that it erases blocks of memory before writing them.

So if given the choice of getting a SSD, I would say that the Super Talent 32GB SATA flash hard drive has the features needed in its generation. They are far more advanced than the regular hard disk but they do not come cheap because of the technology used. I would say that the Super Talent 32GB SATA flash hard drive is built for the kill and it would give you what you had paid for. Go and make your move.

About the Author

Choose from a wide variety of storage solutions from some of industry's most powerful names such as Seagate, Western Digital and many more. Whether you are looking for SATA hard drives, SCSI components, or the revolutionary solid state hard drives (SSD), you will have a selection at Netfreez. To find more information, visit them at http://www.netfreez.com

source:www.goarticles.com

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Major Computer Cleanup (Cleanup My Computer)

Written by oneself on 5:39 AM

by: AngeloPC

Almost every PC user knows that, from time to time, your computer starts to run a little slower or you notice that you harddrive space is dwindling. So many people shrug this off and choose not to do anything about it. They think that it's normal to have these kinds of computer problems and that there isn't anything they can do about it. Your computer is trying to tell you something...it's time for a cleaning. It's time to get rid of the junk and organize the files on your computer, just as you would clean and organize your office. This step-by-step tutorial will put you on the path toward a cleaner, more efficient computer.

In this tutorial, we'll only concern ourselves with Windows XP (I guess I'll have to re-write this article for Vista), for a couple of reasons.

  1. Microsoft has ended support for Windows 98, 98SE and Millennium.

  2. If you still have one of those earlier operating systems, your computer is probably too old to become "efficient" by today's standards.

Follow these steps, exactly, and you just may learn to love your computer, again.

Unused User Accounts

If you have any User Accounts that are no longer active, logon as an computer administrator and remove them.

  1. Click START, then CONTROL PANEL.

  2. When the Control Panel opens, click USER ACCOUNTS.

  3. Click CHANGE AN ACCOUNT.

  4. Click on the name of the account you want to remove.

  5. Click REMOVE THIS ACCOUNT.

  6. When given the option to "delete files" or "keep files", choose to delete them.

  7. After removing all unused User Accounts, restart the computer.

Windows Updates

Make sure you have all of the latest Windows Updates installed by visiting http://update.microsoft.com and following the instructions on the website.

It's critical that you keep your computer up-to-date. Microsoft releases new security updates all the time and it's easier just to set your computer to automatically download and install these updates. Here's how to do that:

  1. Right-click on MY COMPUTER.

  2. Click PROPERTIES.

  3. Click the AUTOMATIC UPDATES tab (reference the illustration, below).

  4. Choose "Automatic (recommended)".

  5. Click APPLY and OK.

Automatic Updates

Remove Unused Programs

This is pretty basic stuff. Most Windows users have already been through the steps of adding and removing programs, but we'll list the steps for those who haven't.

  1. Click START, then CONTROL PANEL.

  2. Double-click ADD OR REMOVE PROGRAMS.

  3. When the window that opens has fully loaded, scroll through the list of programs and remove any that are unwanted or no longer used.

  4. Just a piece of advice...any programs listed that mention anything about "bargain", "cash", "search", "web" or "fun", in the program name, should probably be removed.

Temporary File Cleanup

Temporary files are one of the biggest wastes of harddrive space, hogs of computer resources and major causes of recurring spyware and virus infections. They need to be cleaned on a regular basis. Follow these steps to remove ALL temporary files from your computer:

  1. Double-click MY COMPUTER.

  2. Open the root drive (usually C:).

  3. Open DOCUMENTS AND SETTINGS.

  4. Click TOOLS, then FOLDER OPTIONS.

  5. Click the VIEW tab (reference the illustration, below).

  6. Under "Hidden files and folders", click "SHOW HIDDEN FILES AND FOLDERS".

  7. Uncheck "HIDE EXTENSIONS FOR KNOWN FILE TYPES".

  8. Uncheck "HIDE PROTECTED OPERATING SYSTEM FILES (RECOMMENDED)".

  9. When the warning message pops up, click YES.

  10. Click APPLY, then OK.

***It's recommended that you change the file folder settings back to their default settings after you fully complete the computer cleanup.***

Folder Options

  1. With the Documents And Settings folder opened, open a user account folder.

  2. Open the LOCAL SETTINGS folder.

  3. Open the TEMP folder.

  4. Press CTRL+A to select all files.

  5. Press SHIFT+DEL to permanently delete all selected files. *Note*: you may be unable to delete ALL of the files and folders because some of them may be "locked" by the operating system or another program. Select smaller groups of folders or files in order to remove as many as possible.

  6. Navigate back to the LOCAL SETTINGS folder.

  7. Open the TEMPORARY INTERNET FILES folder.

  8. Repeat steps 4 and 5. See *Note*.

  9. Repeat steps 1 through 8 for all user account folders.

  10. Empty the RECYCLE BIN and restart the computer.

Virus And Spyware Scans

If you don't already have an antivirus program and two or three antispyware programs installed and updated on your computer, then you're BEGGING for problems. I use Webroot Spy Sweeper w/Antivirus, Webroot Desktop Firewall and Spybot Search & Destroy. If you're relying solely on "free" programs for your computer security, you're making a big mistake. I understand that you don't want to pay for software. Nobody does. You just have to look at the value in investing a little bit of money toward preventing the problems that might arise from choosing the "cheaper route". Ok...enough said on that subject.

The most efficient way for antivirus and antispyware products to complete their scans successfully is to run them while the computer is in Safe Mode. To restart Windows in Safe Mode, tap the F8 key about every half-second or so, at computer startup, once you see the manufacturer's logo. You'll then be brought to a screen where you will use the arrow keys to choose the boot mode. Use the arrow up or down key to choose SAFE MODE. Press enter and let Windows do it's thing. When the computer has fully booted, complete FULL SYSTEM scans with your antivirus and antispyware programs. When they are completed, reboot the computer, normally.

Registry Cleanup

After all of the unwanted programs and all of the viruses and spyware have been removed, you're going to want to clean your system registry. There is always a ton of "junk" left in the registry, after you uninstall programs and remove malware. That's gotta go! I've never been big on using an automatic registry cleaner, until recently. I started using PC Tools Registry Mechanic, a short while ago, and it works really well. Use the link to download the demo. Run the program and see how much junk it finds. Invalid registry entries are one of the major causes of computer crashes.PC Tools Registry Mechanic will "tighten-up" your registry to decrease the chances of computer crashes and it may even speed-up your computer!

Defragment The Harddrive(s)

This is the final step in your major computer cleaning. This will insure that the files on the disk are organized in such a way that makes them more quickly accessible, causing less "wait time" and less wear and tear on your drive.

  1. Click START.

  2. Navigate through ALL PROGRAMS to get to the ACCESSORIES folder.

  3. Choose SYSTEM TOOLS.

  4. Choose DISK DEFRAGMENTER.

  5. Select the main disk (C:).

  6. You shouldn't need to "analyze" the drive. At this point, it's better just to choose "DEFRAGMENT".

  7. Let the program run through the process and reboot the computer, normally, when completed.

That's it! You should see a HUGE improvement in the performance of your computer.

source:searchwarp.com

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4 Ways to Stop Computer Freezes and Game Lag

Written by oneself on 5:30 AM

By Gaelim Holland

If you are an avid online gamer, you most certainly have suffered from game lag and computer freezes. Many have spent hours trying to tweak in-game graphical settings in order to increase the frame rate and boost the performance of their favorite games. However, in more case than not, those efforts award the player with only a slight improvement in overall game play. Your system might even meet the recommend hardware specs for optimum performance but the game causes computer freezes when the action gets heavy. However, tweaking the in-game specs and upgrading hardware may not be the best way to overcome game lag and computer freezes.

This irritation may be attributed to conflicting software that is competing for your system’s resources or improper configuration. Most online games such as World of Warcraft should run smoothly on an average setup. Game manufacturers assure us that their recommended specs should run the game smoothly. However those recommendations are calculated when the games are tested on PCs that were optimized for those particular games. There are very few who are willing to dedicate a whole computer specifically for a single game. Nevertheless, there are a couple steps that you can take to free up more resources for your game play. These tips will allow you to better optimize your PC for smoother game play booth online and off-line. .

Stop Game Lag and Computer Freezes Tip #1: Get more bang out of your bandwidth.

There are literally dozens of services running on your Windows operating system. These programs have no respect for your online play. They need bandwidth and system resources just as much as your online games. Many of the programs automatically startup when you log on to the net or at the moment Windows loads. Windows service programs can perform a host of operations from searching for updates, downloading, and even sharing applications with your games. The task is to cut down on the amount services running while your are playing the game in order to free up bandwidth and resources. This is a great tip to stop game lag and computer freezes. Here is how.

1. Click on "Start"
2. Click "Run"
3. Type services.msc
4. Select "Extended" from the Services Window to view a detailed description. Also note the status of the service in question.
5. To stop the service, select "Stop the service" or right click the service, choose "All task" then click "Stop"
6. Click "OK"

Stop Game Lag and Computer Freezes Tip #2: Turn off your Anti-virus/Anti-spyware programs during play.

I am sure the suggestion scares you. However, these programs are very taxing on your computer. They can cause game play lag and computer freezes by initiating a host of small applications and processes during game play. Turning these programs off during your game play is not entirely risk free but you will be amazed at the results by doing so.

Stop Game Lag and Computer Freezes Tip #3: Making sure hardware and software can ”communicate”

This an extremely important step that many gamers tend to miss. DirectX is essential to most next generation Windows games. High multimedia graphics and sound cards require lighting fast APIs, application programming interfaces, to deliver high end graphics and sound. The API acts as a kind of bridge for the hardware and the software. In essence, APIs provide the language for hardware and software to “communicate” with each other. If there is some “miscommunication” caused by improper setup, you will suffer from game lag or computer freezes. The task here is to make sure that your audio and video hardware is properly configured with Windows DirectX technology by using DirectX diagnostics tools. Here is how:

1. Click “Start”
2. Click "Run."
3. Type dxdiag and press enter to load the “Direct X Diagnostic Tool” menu.
4. Click the “Display” and “Sound” tabs.
5. Verify that DX features are enabled and there are no problems.
Perform the test were need. If there are any problems reinstall Direct X and update your hardware drivers. Also you can open the Task Manger by pressing Ctrl-Alt-Delete and viewing the process tab to gauge which services are taking up the majority of system resources. Visit the "Cause of High CPU Usage" page for more details

Stop Game Lag and Computer Freezes Tip #4: Clean and Organize your Hard Drive.

A simple yet overlooked necessity to stop game lag. The faster your game can find files the less you have to worry about game lag and computer freezes. By defragging you help to cut down on the amount work the hard-drive needs to find files. Cleaning your registry cuts down on the errors and will create more free space for your RAM and CPU to work more efficiently. These two steps are a necessity to stop computer freezes. The link "4 Ways to Speed Up Your Computer" will show you how to perform these steps.

Without a doubt the habit of upgrading your computer's hardware for the next generation of games will allow take advantage new graphic and sound card technology. However, this act makes PC gaming a more expensive hobby than it really needs to be. Hopefully, the tips above rewarded you smoother game play and will help to end your days of computer freezes and game lag.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com

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Direct TV Offers a Large Selection of Programming

Written by oneself on 4:40 AM

by David Johnson

With every year that passes it has become more evident that satellite TV is going to take over cable TV totally eventually. With each year that passes there are higher numbers of cable TV subscribers that are moving over to satellite TV. When you compare the high costs and limited availability of cable to satellite TV providers you will only wonder what is taking everyone else do long. With satellite TV you are not only getting more programming options at a better price, but you are also getting better quality sound and video quality.

Satellite TV also gives you options when it comes to your equipment and programming. Cable TV delivers their entertainment through low quality limited bandwidth cables. Now you can enjoy satellite TV's one hundred percent digital quality video and sound. With satellite TV the signals are all transmitted using a geosynchronous satellite which has the ability to send out signals to each individual dish. This makes it possible for you to enjoy more programming options than you could ever think of.

Direct TV offers one of the most impressive programming selections to their customers. With their massive amount of options you will never have to listen to your family complain that there is nothing for them to watch on TV. Even Direct TV's entry level package is known as the largest entry level package out of any offered in the TV service industry. This entry level package actually contains more than one hundred and fifty five different channels including such favorites as Disney, ESPN, USA, and Comedy Central.

Those who need a package that has more to choose from can always upgrade to Direct TV's Total Choice Plus package which has more than one hundred and eighty of the nations most popular channels. With this package you can also enjoy the large assortment of XM satellite radio which is always one hundred percent commercial-free. This package also includes popular channels such as The Golf Channel, Nicktoons, and Discovery Home.

If you are one of those families who are really into relaxing at home and enjoying a movie or two, then the Total Choice Premier package that is offered through Direct TV is the perfect choice for you. This package truly includes everything that you need to enjoy a night in at home with your family and friends. The Total Choice Premier package includes some of the most popular movie stations in the United States including Starz, HBO, Sundance, as well as Cinemax. This package also comes complete with thirty sports channels which are guaranteed to keep any sports fan happy.

If that still is not enough programming options for you then you can always add on even more options. You can add on adult entertainment channels, pay-per-view subscriptions, and seasonal sports subscriptions. Those who are football fans must consider Direct TV simply because they offer the exclusive NFL Sunday Ticket. Regardless of what type of programming you are in to, Direct TV is sure to have what you are looking for.


source:www.goarticles.com

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Stop Computer-killing Dust in its Tracks

Written by oneself on 6:10 AM


by: Erik Keranen

It attacks your computer like the South American army ant. Tiny, harmless looking critters by themselves, in larger numbers they can cover, kill and dissolve a full grown cow in a matter of hours.

Okay, maybe not exactly like that. But, wood shop and machine shop owners are experiencing the devastating effect manufacturing dust can have inside their shop computers. And they are looking for answers.

It doesn’t take much to ruin your day, especially, when metallic dust meets sensitive electronic components. Electricity chooses to travel in the shortest route possible, and little bridges of metal dust make great short cuts.

And wood dust makes a great insulating blanket. That’s okay if you’re lost in a big wood bin and freezing to death, but to a hard working computer it can be bad news. Heat sinks and fans attempt to dissipate the heat from within your computer, but a layer of dust can reduce or prevent this transfer of heat. Also, computer fans can malfunction when dust and grime are allowed to build up. Things heat up. Computers die. Data is lost. Business suffers.

Okay, what’s the answer then? How do you protect your computer from dust?

The actions you are willing and able to take to protect your computer equipment from dust depend on a large number of individual circumstances. Regardless of your situation, I recommend you take a three-front defensive position and optimize for each of the following areas:

  • Computer room environment
  • Protective computer dust barriers
  • Computer maintenance

Let’s look at each of these areas individually.

Computer Room Environment

Control the environmental conditions surrounding your computers. The ideal solution would be to keep your computers and monitors in a clean, climate controlled computer room. In other words, take them out of the danger area. Of course, this is unrealistic or undesirable to many shop owners, who want, or need the computers to operate in the immediate work area.

So what then? Do what you can to control the dust and air pollutants in the shop. Use and maintain dust collectors for woodworking machines and a ventilation system for the shop area. And, if you can’t move the computers out of the shop, try to move them across the room, away from welding, grinding or direct contact with billowing sander dust.

Protective Computer Dust Barriers

These include computer dust covers, dust filters, computer dust bags, and computer enclosures. Each has its advantages and limitations as described below. Determine which option is the best solution for you.

Standard computer covers are made by a number of manufacturers. Usually plastic or vinyl, they are cheap, but effective in keeping dust off your computers and monitors. However, they may only be used while your computer equipment is shut down. And, you must remember to put them on. Every day. In other words, they are almost useless in a busy shop.

Computer filters, on the other hand may be used while the computer is running. Also very cheap, these small pieces of loose mesh material are placed over fan air intakes in the computer case to remove dust from incoming air. Some have experimented with using panty hose, Brillo® Pads and other household items with some success. The main drawback with computer filters is their small surface area. They clog up quickly in dusty areas and must be cleaned, or changed frequently to allow the unimpeded flow of cool air into the computer case. Another drawback is that they leave other openings in the computer case unprotected, allowing fine dust to infiltrate the CD ROM drives, floppy drives and other small openings.

Relatively new on the scene, computer dust bags are a combination computer cover and computer filter. Designed for the harsh, dusty and smoky conditions inherent to wood shops and machine shops, these innovative covers entirely encase the computer processor or monitor at all times, allowing the entire surface of the bag to act as a huge dust filter to remove dust from incoming air. Monitor dust bags have a see-through, anti-static front to allow a clear screen view, and are very effective in keeping dust, wood chips and other debris out of the cooling vents. At around $20 or less, the recommended life-span of the computer dust bag is 3-12 months, depending on the level of dust in the shop. A possible drawback to using the computer dust bag is reduced access to CD and floppy drives. However, it is possible to use these drives if you cut a hole in the dust bag and cover it with a door flap, which is included with the bag. You may also have to cut an access slot to use your USB ports.

Finally, computer enclosures are typically metal or wood, box-like cabinets which your computer processor and monitor are placed in to protect them from the surrounding environment. A variety of fan and filter combinations introduce fresh air into the enclosure. Computer enclosures have the added advantage of protecting your equipment from blunt force trauma, such as a falling 2x4, chemical splashes and other things harmful to your computer. Filters must be changed regularly. Disadvantages include high price, greater amount of space required, and filter maintenance.

Computer Maintenance

Finally, the third part of a sound computer dust protection strategy is computer maintenance. Yes, that means cleaning. Does that scare you? It’s easier than you think. You don’t have to buy all kinds of expensive tools and cleaning agents, and no heavy scrubbing or complicated disassembly is needed. The most important thing is to maintain a regular computer cleaning schedule. It may be as simple as opening the computer case once every three months to blow out the dust. Educate yourself on the computer cleaning basics and decide the right course of action for yourself. For a copy of the Standard Operating Procedure, “Computer Cleaning and Dust Protection in an Industrial Environment", which you can modify to fit your own requirements go to www.computerdust.com. It’s free when you sign up for “The Computer Dust Solutions" newsletter.

Just as numerous insects and animals perish when attacked by the army ant, a great number of computers are killed by dust every day. Don’t let it happen to you. Follow the common sense ideas shown here and stop computer-killing dust in its tracks!

Erik Keranen is the founder of Computer Dust Solutions and publisher of the Computer Dust Solutions newsletter. You can sign up for the newsletter and get a free copy of his Standard Operating Procedure, “Computer Cleaning and Dust Protection in an Industrial Environment" at the web site, www.computerdust.com.

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AMD vs. Intel: Which Chip Offers More Bang for Your Buck in Gaming PCs?

Written by oneself on 6:02 AM


by: Jordan Hall

Computer enthusiasts have long known of the ongoing rivalry between Intel, the processing giant, and Advanced Micro Devices, or AMD. Since the early nineties, Intel and AMD have vied for technical dominance in the computer hardware field and in relation to computer gaming. For many years, AMD was like the “kid brother" of Intel the latter held a seemingly insurmountable lead in terms of market share, and the former simply eked by and scrappily etched out a place in the industry for itself. Intel was also traditionally associated with more powerful chips while AMD came to symbolize greater value. Back in the nineties when clock speed meant everything, Intel’s Pentium III chip always managed to maintain a sizeable lead in terms of performance and speed over AMD’s Athlon offering. Product support also tended to lean decidedly in Intel’s favor largely due to their history of success, there were no shortage of computer manufacturers ready to do business with the company. AMD, meanwhile, enjoyed an almost cult-like following amongst computer enthusiasts who lauded its price-to-performance ratio.

Eventually, however, the raw power of a processor began to be less important than its overall performance, information processing ability, and power consumption. The landscape began to really shift in about 2000. That year, AMD announced and began to develop its 64-bit line of processors, Opteron and Athlon 64. The company essentially staked its future on these chip lines, and in 2003 they released to much acclaim. The balance of power had shifted decidedly in the processor market while Intel’s Pentium 4 chips struggled with power consumption and heat issues as they steadily increased in clock speed, AMD’s 64-bit offerings allowed consumers to take advantage of more powerful 64-bit code in their systems—including gaming systems. Whereas Intel enthusiasts could always point to the performance discrepancy between the two different types of chips, AMD quickly became the processor of choice for computer gaming and computer hardware enthusiasts. The processing power provided by the 64-bit AMD chips proved to be too great to pass up, and this was only reinforced in 2005 when the company released the first dual-core processors to the market. Since then, Intel has been playing catch-up in terms of hardware availability, and AMD’s market share has reached its highest point at roughly 20 percent, according to eWeek.com.

What are the Advantages of AMD Processors?

As the processing landscape has shifted towards AMD’s side, there are some key benefits of using AMD-based hardware that have been revealed. The first is obviously the pure power edge that AMD has attained. Tom’s Hardware (tomshardware.com) has long been regarded as a reliable authority in the field of computer hardware reviews. While Intel for years could always claim performance superiority over AMD at the high end, Tom’s reports that this is no longer the case. In conclusion to a comparison between AMD’s dual core Athlon FX-60 processor and Intel’s Pentium Extreme Edition, the reviewer writes, “With the exception of a few audio and video encoding benchmarks, the Athlon 64 FX-60 represents the new device to beat as far as performance goes, thanks to its two processing cores." Furthermore, the reviewer adds that the increased demands of running dual graphics cards configurations means that “this processor is a great choice for the best-possible 3D gaming experience." This status as the most powerful processor is reinforced by the fact that Alienware, renowned as the industry leader in terms of powerful custom computers, uses the FX-60 exclusively in its top-of-the-line Aurora ALX system.

Another advantage of AMD processors over Intel, at least for the time being, is the lower relative power consumption of their systems. According to Tom’s Hardware, AMD’s Turion 64 enjoys its status as the most efficient single core processor, and while Intel’s Core Duo is technically the most efficient dual core processor, the overall power efficiency of AMD systems offsets any advantage that the Core Duo might have. When you subtract the power draw of a graphics card, which can be massive, it remains clear that AMD processors just do their job in a more efficient manner.

So What about Intel?

None of this means that Intel processors should be completely disregarded, however. One key advantage that Intel maintains is in sheer numbers. Intel still maintains a roughly 80 percent share of the market today, and as such you are more likely to find a system sporting an Intel processor rather than its AMD counterpart. Furthermore, Intel’s long string of dominance ensures that there are no software-hardware compatibility issues as Intel is the accepted leader in the processor industry, companies base their compatibility around Intel processors first.

It’s not as if Intel is resting on their laurels, either. As has often happened during the rivalry between Intel and AMD, competition is breeding a new level of performance. Intel has recently shifted to a 65 nm processor core process, beating AMD to the punch in the process. The reduced core size allows for greater possibilities in terms of chip efficiency and power. Intel’s top-level chip is still more expensive than its AMD counterpart, however, perhaps due to the relative newness of the 65 nm process.

So Which Chip Should you Buy for Your Gaming Computer?

All of these technical comparisons are well and good, but they don’t answer the fundamental question: which chip is best for computer gaming systems? Though they continue to use the 90 nm core process for the time being, AMD processors still represent the best “bang for your buck." AMD’s highest-end chips are still priced lower than their Intel counterparts, and the performance numbers available for them don’t lie. Furthermore, AMD-based systems are more power-efficient in general, and certain technologies allow for technical innovation. nVidia’s nForce line of motherboards, for example, is just on the verge of achieving steady dual-channel DDR2-667 memory support for Athlon 64 FX2 dual core chips. What this means for the consumer is that the memory will operate faster, with a higher bandwidth, and in greater harmony with the processor than ever before.

Jordan Hall is an avid computer gamer, author of best-gaming-computers.com, and technology enthusiast that enjoys providing consumers with advice concerning gaming computers, gaming laptops, and computer hardware and constructi

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Registry Problems Trouble the Working of Operating System

Written by oneself on 4:30 AM

by: Sam Mike

Why and when registry slows down the computer?

Registry structure of the operating system saves all the registry files related to the software which are frequently installed and removed from computer. It keeps track of all the DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files of all the installed components. Registry needs to be monitored and troubleshoot on regular basis, for healthy processing of computer.

According to the research made by computer repair agencies that almost 90% computing power of computers is affected by corrupted registry files. Most of the computer systems report errors due to missing important registry files.

The registry is affected only when you have installed programs on the computer and uninstall them after some time. Most of the time uninstall utility dose not work properly, and leaves some unnecessary files in the computer. The size of the registry grows and makes use of large space of memory. Frequent addition and deletion of software from computer gives rise to the registry fragmentation, corruption and registry failure.

Most common problems of the computers, when registry fails are listed below

* Corrupted applications show error while opening an application
 * Useless and failed objects related to browser like temporary internet files which occupy a lot of space of primary drive
 * Missing files related to applications installed on the computer
 * Damaged components of active X and COM objects by adding and removing new system files to them.
 * Reliability of registry files becomes suspected

Being a layman, a computer user is not much familiar to cope with such kind of computer problems. Some of the symptoms are mentioned below, which indicate the failure of registry files.

* Slow speed of processor
* Very low performance
* Instability in the application’s processing
* Frequent errors while work is in progress
* A very slow startup of windows
* In most severe case, windows denies from getting started.

These problems are only encountered when programs are constantly installed and removed from the computer. Some of the files are left behind in computer registry even the un-installation process is finished. Such files create problems for the operating system to work properly. The best solution for this issue is to scan the whole computer and use of efficient registry cleaner software.

About author

Optimum Data Recovery, Inc. offers professional data recovery service for all storage devices including hard disk drives, RAID, Laptop and other removable media.

source:searchwarp.com

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Motorola V3i - Martin's Quick Review

Written by oneself on 10:01 AM


by Martin Fortus

The Motorola V3i is an updated version of the tremendously popular Razr V3. The V3i keeps the same sleek and compact design the original Razr was so loved for, but this version is offered in a classy metallic graphite finish. While the color is the only change in the appearance of the V31, all the features of the Razr have been improved, although some changes are very subtle.

The caller ID screen on the outside is rather small, leaving the shiny casing to become easily smudged from fingerprints, but the V3i is an overall gorgeous phone. The clamshell design flips open easily to answer calls without touching a button, and snaps shut to end them. Users do have to remember to end their calls manually if they are using the speakerphone mode, however.

The buttons and switches around the exterior of the phone all fit smoothly into the design of the V3i and are very easy to use. The keypad is similar to that of the V3, with easy to distinguish keys and great responsiveness. Also like the original, the V3i is a quad band mobile phone, making it ideal for international usage.

The low resolution camera of the Razr V3 has been improved to a 1.2 megapixel camera that features an 8x digital zoom and is capable of video as well. The V3i's camera is still very poor quality compared to other camera phones on the market, but it is great for occasional usage or for picture messaging.

Another greatly appreciated upgrade seen in the V3i is the addition of a music player. Though the version that includes iTunes software is not available in the UK, the V3i features an easy to use MP3 player that can be controlled through the phone's exterior keys. Musical playback is available in flight mode and can be used with headsets or played through the phone's speaker, which provides fairly good quality. The music player also allows users to create play lists for more convenience.

The internal memory features of the V3i are not very impressive, with only 12 MB of storage. MicroSD cards can be used to expand the memory and to store music for play lists, but the card slots are located under the battery cover, making them difficult to access. The 64 MB memory card included with the V3i can easily hold about 150 tunes, but anyone desiring more file storage will have to remove the battery cover.

Although the features of the Motorola V3i are rather outdated compared to other mobile phones, it is a great improvement over the original Razr. If you're looking for a sleek and trendy clamshell Razr phone, but want the added convenience of a functional camera and MP3 player, the V3i is perfect.

About the Author

Shop online and get the Motorola V3i with free line rental, and other top mobile phones. Choose from the best 12 months free line rental deals today!


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Should You Get A Multi-Function Phone?

Written by oneself on 9:36 AM


By: Vanessa Arellano Doctor

In our day and age, there have been a lot of technological advancements done in the field of mobile telecommunication systems. In order to get a lot of customers, phone companies continue to develop new and exciting innovations on phones in order to keep up with the needs of their customers, and at the same time to keep ahead of their competitors. These new innovations have resulted to different phone units with different new applications and improvements that help the consumers satisfy their needs.

One particular change that phones have undergone to evolve into the phones that we have today is their ability to function not just as a phone, but also as another type of device. These multi-function phones actually offer more than just the standard features that regular phones possess since these phones change into another type of device.

There are phones that also double as a camera, or as a music player, or even both. Some also function as a personal computer in a sense that it allows you to type files, browse the Internet, and even send e-mails. There are a lot of functions that phones today are able to incorporate into their system. The question now is how do you determine if you should get a multi-function phone or not?

Multi-function phones, as taken from their name, have multiple functions that the phone is able to do. It can be used for different purposes, depending on the features that the phone have. Unfortunately, some of these features are rarely used, or are even useful, for that matter. There are certain innovations on phones that is interesting to have, but offers very little significant purpose. Before you can decide what type of phone you should buy, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.

A multi-function phone differs from regular phones, not only in functionality and features, but also differs in price. Having all those extra features can be very costly, especially if the added features are very state-of-the art technology and innovations. Nothing comes free with phone companies, so keep in mind that all the added features in your multi-function phone are being paid for by you.

If you have the money to spend on those added features, then you should have no problems purchasing phones that are multi-functional. However, if you do not have the extra budget to buy phones that have other features aside from the basic text messaging and calling services, then you should probably think twice about buying these multi-function phones.

Another thing that you should consider when buying phones that are multi-functional is if you will be able to take advantage of the added features and functions that it possesses. Having a multi-function phone can provide you with a lot of new ways and means to communicate, but if you will not be able to make use of all the added feature that the multi-function phone offers, then why bother purchasing it in the first place.

Whether you choose to buy a multi-function phone or not, you just need to base your decision according to what you need and what you can use. It is useless to have a phone that has a lot of features that you cannot use.

Vanessa Arellano Doctor from http://www.Jump2top.com, a SEO Company. http://flatrateonline.com

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

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Used Large Format Scanners

Written by oneself on 5:57 AM

By Damian Sofsian

For many who want to install a large format scanner, a used one will do as satisfactorily as a brand new one and at a much lower cost. Consider an engineering firm that does all its design in CAD. It might still want to convert some of the older drawings, or those obtained from other sources, to digital form. A used scanner obtained from an authorized dealer with a warranty and maintenance contract would fulfill this need much more economically than a new scanner, since the application does not require the latest models. But an art museum, library or a reprographic center may opt for a new machine with the best resolution and image quality.

When going for a pre-owned scanner, care must be taken to ensure that the machine is compatible with computers and operating systems that are used today. For example, some of the old Contex DOS-based scanners use a proprietary interface card that is no longer available. Some of the old models will need frequent repairs, and the parts for it will no longer be available. So it is always good to opt for scanners with a maintenance contract also included in the buying price. If the scanner is for temporary use, then the re-sale value should also be considered when making a choice.

The major attraction in buying a used scanner is the lower cost involved; but this should not be at the expense of quality. Buying from reliable vendors who are authorized by the manufacturers themselves ensures quality. Contex, Vidar, Graphtec and ACTion Imaging are some manufacturers who facilitate the re-sale of their used scanners. Re-sale involves repairing the old scanner and making required modifications to suit the present need. Standard accessories are also made available. When buying used scanners, it is always advisable to buy it from a dealer near you, since that will make the repair and maintenance easy, whenever necessary.

About the author:
Large Format Scanners provides detailed information on Large Format Scanners, Large Format Color Scanners, Large Format Flatbed Scanners, Used Large Format Scanners and more. Large Format Scanners is affliated with Home Theater Projector Screens.

source:www.ezinefinder.com

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Plasma TV vs. LCD TV - Which is Better?

Written by oneself on 5:30 AM

By: Brian Stevens

Plasma TV vs. LCD TV

You know you want to buy a flat-screen TV but you don't know if a plasma TV or an LCD TV would be your best choice.

This article explains the differences between plasma versus LCD TVs, then shows you how to get the best price for a plasma or LCD TV.

Plasma TV

A plasma TV screen consists of millions of multi-colored gas-filled cells. When electricity passes through the cells they light up and produce a picture.

Plasma TV screens have a much higher resolution than tube TV screens. In fact, the picture is so clear it's almost like watching a scene through a window.

Screen sizes range from 42" to 65" wide and are 3" to 4" thick.

LCD TV

LCD (light crystal display) TV screens are made up of a thin layer of liquid crystals sandwiched between two glass plates. When an electricity is sent through the crystals an array of tiny multi-colored pixels light up to create a picture.

LCD TV screens are thinner and lighter than plasma screens. They are the most screens for computers, and are quickly gaining popularity as TV screens.

LCD TV screens are anywhere from 1/4" to 4" thick and 2" to 65" wide.

Plasma vs. LCD Features

Picture Quality

When it comes to which type of TV screen is sharper and shows more detail, plasma TVs have a slight edge over LCD TVs, though LCD TVs are catching up.

Plasma TVs are also slightly better when it comes to viewing angle - how far you can sit to one side of a TV screen before picture quality is affected.

Screen Life

Screen life is the number of hours a TV provides before the picture begins to fade. Plasma TVs have a screen life of about 30,000 to 60,00 hours, depending on the make and model, while LCD TV's have a screen life of 60,000 hours or more.

Plasma TVs are also subject to "burn in." This occurs when a TV displays a still image long enough for a ghost of that image to be burned into the screen. LCD TVs do not have this problem.

HD TV

Both plasma and LCD TVs display HD (high definition) signals for a sharper, more three dimensional picture. LCD TVs, however, have a slightly higher resolution (more screen pixels) then plasma TVs.

Video Games

Plasma and LCD TVs are both great for video gaming, however because of plasma TV's tendency toward screen burn in, an LCD TV is the better choice if you play a lot of video games.

Portability

LCD TVs are thinner and lighter than plasma TVs, making them easier to move and easier to mount on a wall.

Plasma vs LCD TV prices

When it comes to which type of TV gives you the most bang for the buck, it depends on what you're looking for.

If you're looking for a large-screen TV - 42" or larger - plasma TVs are currently cheaper than than similar-sized LCD TVs. When I recently compared prices on 42" TVs, the cheapest plasma TV was $999, while the cheapest LCD TV was $1,367.

When it comes to mid-size TVs, I couldn't find plasma TVs smaller than 42." The cheapest 32" LCD TV I found was $619, while the cheapest 27" LCD TV was $550.

Visit the http://TheSatelliteTVGuide.com to get more information, to compare prices, and to get consumer ratings for plasma TVs and LCD Tvs.

The author, Brian Stevens, is the senior editor for TheSatelliteTVGuide.com and has written extensively on plasma TV vs. LCD TV.

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

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Helping you pick the right hard drive for your computer

Written by oneself on 5:04 AM


By: Adam Wilson

Hard drive is a storehouse of voluble information, which is retained even after your PC is turned off. In technical terms, it is a primary storage unit on the computer, comprising one or more media platters on which digital data is written and erased magnetically. A hard disk drive houses more data and can be accessed faster than floppy drives. Depending on storage demands, you can install more than one hard drive on your computer.


Not only should your hard drive be capable of storing volumes of data, it should also provide for quick access. Thus, the primary factors to consider when buying a hard drive are storage capacity and speed. Keep in mind the points below and you can pick a good hard drive for your PC!


  • Know the Hard Drive types

    First, you should decide where you wish to place the hard drive on your computer. Depending on this, the choices available to you are Internal and External. Laptop hard drives are designed for use on laptops. Irrespective of the type, all hard drive provides the same utility i.e. allowing for additional storage space.



    1. Internal Hard Drive: These are drives that fit into the open bays of your computer. They are less expensive than external drives and have faster transfer rates. These days, most computer models possess an internally installed hard drive with at least one provision of an open bay to install additional hard drive into them. However, it is always a good practice to check if your computer has provisions for an additional internal drive before you proceed to buy one.

    2. External Hard Drive    : These drives are easier additions to the existing storage space because they do not require opening up of your computer. Such drives connect via the USB port and Firewire. All you need to do is plug them in and they immediately become functional. Thus, ease of installation gives them an edge over internal drives. Moreover, they are portable and allow flexibility in transferring data among different locations. Care should be executed when handling them as they get damaged if dropped or banged against objects accidentally.


    3. Laptop Hard Drive    : These drives allow you to carry loads of data around when you travel and are also available in the types of internal and external. When buying a laptop hard drive, ensure that you choose a lightweight and power saving one. It should also not produce too much of heat or noise.


  • Check the capacity or size of the drive

    Capacity of a hard drive implies the amount of storage space available to you for saving your files. A 40 GB (gigabyte) hard drive space is sufficient to an average home user if he does not look to have too many applications or games installed on his computer. For more advanced usage like installing heavy applications and storing numerous movies, graphic or music files, an 80 GB or higher capacity becomes useful. Most of the modern computers come with at least 80 GB hard drive capacity.


  • Check the disk speed or spin rate

    Measured in ‘Revolutions per minute’ (RPM), disk speed or spin rate throws light on the speed with which the hard drive reads and writes data. With faster data transfer, you are ensured of a more efficient performance with increase in speed. Typically, spin rate ranges between 4,200-15,000 RPMs. Most available hard drives spin at 7,200 RPM to support work with large files. If usage is limited to working with small files alone, a drive with at least 5,400 RPM speed will suffice.


  • Check the hard drive cache

    Cache is an additional memory that acts as a buffer between Central Processing Unit (CPU) and the drive to enhance the speed of data retrieval. In other words, it reduces the computer’s ‘seek time’ by storing data frequently accessed by you. Higher the cache memory on the drive, more efficient is your computer’s performance. Usually, drives allow for 2 MB cache feature but 8 MB and 16 MB are also becoming popular these days. For working with large files like video and audio, you should have a large cache size.


  • Check for operating system compatibility

    Usually, hard drives are compatible for use on Windows platform. Thus, it is essential to check for compatibility if your computer uses Macintosh or Linux. Sometimes on Mac or Linux systems, installing necessary software along with the drive helps the computer identify the hard drive.


  • Check the rate of data transfer

    Often, you need to transfer volumes of data to other devices like a CD. During data transfer, operating other applications on your computer will slow down the process. Hence, there is a waiting time involved during which it is preferable to leave the computer idle. Thus, it is essential to know how fast your hard drive transfers information to external devices. Faster the data transfer, lesser is the idle time.


  • Know the interface

    Interface determines the means by which an external drive connects on to the computer. Different interfaces available on hard drives for connection are:



    I. IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics): The most common of connection techniques, it is less expensive since the hard drive controller is present on the drive itself and not the motherboard. The technology on this kind of interface helps in processing several parts of data at the same time. Various IDE standards in the sequence of most basic to fastest are ATA (Basic), ATA-2 or EIDE (Enhanced IDE), ATA-3, Ultra-ATA, ATA-66, ATA-100, ATA-133 (Fastest).

    2. SATA (Serial ATA): Hard drives with this interface offers tremendously high transfer rates of 150 MB per second to 300 MB per second in SATA II. Requiring only 6 wires, it is an innovation on IDE/ATA interface that requires 40 separate wires to connect components to a serial interface.

    3. SCSI (Small Computer System Interface): This interface allows for multiple devices to connect to a computer on any of Apple Macintosh, UNIX as well as other computers. Generally found on higher end PCs, they are more expensive, flexible, reliable and faster than IDE interface. Different SCSI standards are SCSI-1, SCSI-2, Wide SCSI, Fast SCSI, Fast Wide SCSI, Ultra Wide SCSI, SCSI-3, Ultra2 SCSI and Wide Ultra2 SCSI.

    4. Firewire: This interface is more common to portable hard drives owing to their capability of being removed without having to restart the computer. Also known as IEEE 1394, Firewire transfers data at a very high speed. They are faster than USB connections. Invented by Apple Computer, Firewire is now used on Windows platform as well.

    5. USB 1.1 & USB 2.0: Commonly known as Universal Serial Bus, USB 1.1 interface is found on most computers. It can support even 127 devices at the same time either through the port hubs or linked in a daisy chain fashion. A disadvantage with USB 1.1 is that it allows for a very slow data transfer of about 1.5 MB per second. USB 2.0 offers high-speed data transfer of up to 60 MB per second. However, a USB 1.1 system can boost up its data transfer speed by using a USB 2.0 device along with a USB 2.0 controller card.



Getprice is an Australian comparison shopping service that helps consumers find the best deals when shopping for Hard Drives. Getprice works with Australia’s leading retailers to list information such as product specifications and prices, store information and special offers from Australia’s top Hard Drive retailers in order to help consumers find the right product at the best price. Getprice also publishes buying guides for hard drives and other popular products. All pricing and product information is provided by independent third party Australian retailers. Getprice provides product and pricing comparisons for online shoppers to ‘shop smart and save’. Compare prices or just browse the hard drives category at Getprice.com.au.


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

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Need Audio Conferencing software for your office?

Written by oneself on 4:32 AM


BY:Randell Rogfend

Are you tired of making the routine presentations every time? The same material, lectures, demonstrations and the boring proposals leave you sulking at your job. It is time that you switch to something new and get tied up to the latest technology - Audio Conferencing Software.

There are a number of providers who help create a new platform for business conferences by providing audio conferencing software or web conferencing software services.

These companies fulfill the needs of equipments for presentations such as stage acts, event productions, conventions, conference support and the like through some of the best video audio conferencing software services. Apart from the regular web conferencing software, these companies also provide for lighting arrangements, sound, projection, recording, video and broadcasting layouts.

Anybody can avail these conferencing software services in sets or individual packets. It is required of a company to answer all the conferencing needs and at the same time provide quality service at reasonable prices. The companies also offer technical support with the equipments. There are a whole lot of companies selling such services, but some of the industry's best video conferencing software services are available at the website.

The companies provide you with a technician who aids and guides you through all the levels of the presentations. It is far much easier and convenient to handle the equipments in the presence of a helper.

Audio video conferencing software is an easier way to conduct a virtual meeting at any place. It gives way to easy file sharing, collaborative software, or any combination of these equipments and tools. Slide presentation, streaming audio, and document sharing are some of the extras you can incorporate into this conferencing method. The decisive goal is to make the meeting as realistic as possible, where everyone can see each other, hear each other, view and modify projects, and so on - all at a cost that eventually pays for itself in travel savings.

Audio conferencing software has proved to be very useful tool to upgrade the industry standards. To hold an audio conference is more often than not an easy procedure and at the same time is an appropriate alternative to travel, especially when a meeting does not require face-to-face interaction or any kind of document sharing.

It is difficult to find the right audio conferencing software and the best service provider, which provides a comfortable budget and an excellent quality. At times, the voice quality during the presentations might get disturbed, and can affect the important conversation in a bad way, which could indirectly hamper the business. Find some of the best audio conferencing software for your presentations.

About the author: Randell Rogfend is a father of three children who has had a long and fulfilling writing career. His passion is writing and he has contributed to countless newspapers, magazines and books. www.audioconferencingsoftware.ixzc.comThe following site is his collection of articles about his latest interest: www.audioconferencingsoftware.ixzc.com/Audio_video_conferencing_software

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Refurbished Laptop Computers - Upgrade or Purchase New?

Written by oneself on 6:46 AM

By Grant Price III

It happens at least once in the life of every notebook computer- it slows down in performance, and just doesn't have the get up and go that it used to. Like most people, you run your favorite antivirus program(s) to make sure that "bugs" haven't infected your system, and you even run spyware programs to make sure that spyware isn't overloading your system resources. To take things a step further you clear out unnecessary items from your start menu, make bios adjustments and get rid of old programs you haven't used in a while.

After all that, your laptop computer still runs slow and you realize - it's time for an upgrade.

Once upon a time, laptop and notebook upgrades were considered "technician only" activities because of the fact most notebook manufacturers have proprietary technologies in their systems. That is still true to some extent, but the main hardware components affecting system performance in most laptops are those that have become pretty much industry standard. These are:

  1. Hard Drive
  2. Memory
  3. Processor
These components can be easily replaced in most notebooks. The first thing to do however is to determine if the upgrade is worth the cost. Check prices online to see how much it will cost. If I pay $120 for a hard drive, $50 for memory and $150 for a new processor, it may not make sense to do all three upgrades, I may only want to choose 1 at first and then check system performance.

If my laptop wasn't very expensive to begin with, I may want to consider just purchasing another one. If I can get a Windows Vista HP laptop for $499.00, that may make more sense than upgrading.

Grant J. Price III successfully runs e-commerce website NotebookSpecials.Com which specializes in Refurbished, New and Used Laptops and notebook computers.
You may visit online or call (866)847-0246.
You may also read more online at Refurbished-Laptops-Online.com for more info.

CNET.com offers an online course on how to upgrade a used notebook computer step by step. Check it out and determine which option is right for you.

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3G mobile phones: Be-friend with technology

Written by oneself on 6:29 AM

By:Raina Kelsey

"Necessity is the mother of invention," they say, and its true the way mobile industry is growing by leaps and bounds. Better known as mobile telecommunication devices, new age mobile phones have broken all the barriers and have incorporated more and more advanced features to suit today's hectic lifestyle. A growing number of consumers are using souped-up mobile devices for managing their business as well as personal lives with ease.

Thanks to the technological breakthrough the mobile industry has achieved in a very short span of time. And the most incredible acquisition is the introduction of 3G mobile technology. The obvious advantages of 3G mobile phones are the connectivity – whether its data transfer capability or the mobile Internet – these 3G enabled mobile devices have made life more easier than ever before. And that's the reason why businesses are turning to new age mobile phones.

With the introduction of 3G mobile phones in the global mobile phone market, consumers are now experiencing the true capabilities of 3G technology. With more efficient voice and data solutions, these mobile devices are finding a more protective and productive place in the corporate world. Offering broadband speed mobile Internet, high speed data transfer capabilities and 3G video calling features – 3G mobile phones could be the best choice for the business world.

Almost all leading mobile companies are launching 3G mobile phones in the mobile market. Moreover, these incredible devices, offer entertainment features as well. Whether its camera or music player or even mobile games – get everything in your Smartphone. Built on Symbian OS, these devices also allow users to download new applications. What's more, latest phones also support expandable memory card – allowing more space for multimedia and other high-end applications.

With the rapid growth in the mobile technology, its not possible to predict anything, but its for sure that in the coming future, more and more advancement in the mobile world would take place. Amen!

Raina Kelsey is an expert author, and writes about latest gadgets. For more information about
3g mobile phones and other sim free phones please visit www.mobilespectrum.co.uk.

This article is free for republishing

Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_177032_45.html

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10 Bone-Headed Mistakes Plasma TV Shoppers Must Avoid!

Written by oneself on 5:34 AM


by Isaac Ridley

Shopping for a Big Screen TV means avoiding lots of people trying to dazzle you with new technology.

You have to side-step slick TV salesmen talking about "DLP", "EDTV" or "1080i". You have to outsmart internet con artists selling "gray market" Plasmas. And you have to ignore bone-headed advice from Fred, the neighborhood know-it-all.

Mistake #1: Don't Buy A "No-Name" Plasma TV! The most important decision you can make when buying a big screen TV is to decide not to buy a "No-Name". A device as complex as a LCD, Plasma or DLP TV must be manufactured with the finest components by dozens of expert technicians working in multi-million dollar plants. "No-name" companies use none of those.

Mistake #2: Never Trust A "Seeing Eye" TV Salesman! If you walk into a TV showroom and don't know EDTV from HDTV, some slick salesman will smile and eat you for lunch! Don't let salesmen make choices for you, or you'll end up with some outdated TV his boss wants to get rid of. Or you'll end up with screen burn-in on your new Plasma when your son hooks up his Playstation 3; or suffer with a dim display in your brightly lit living room. Do a little research before you make a purchase; it's not difficult.

(If you're not familiar with some of the terms used above - DLP, EDTV, LCD - Google the "123 Guide To Plasma TV.com")

Mistake #3: Don't Buy From A "No-Name" Retailer! It's important to buy your Plasma TV from a reputable dealer selling brand name merchandise. The return of a faulty $2000 Plasma TV won't bankrupt Wal-Mart or Sony; but could devastate a Mom and Pop electronics store. Try to make major purchases from a major retailer's website; make sure they offer a good return policy and have brand name Plasmas at a discount price.

Mistake #4: Don't Fall For Plasma Internet Scams! We've all seen what look like great deals on Plasma TVs online. But exactly what is a great deal? It means getting GREAT MERCHANDISE at a GREAT PRICE. It's not a great deal if you get CRAPPY MERCHANDISE at a GREAT PRICE! You don't want your "new" Plasma to be a returned or refurbished item. Avoid "gray market" or "B stock" merchandise, and avoid sellers who aren't authorized retailers.

Mistake #5: Don't Play Video Games On A Plasma Television! The chance of screen burn-in on a Plasma TV has been greatly reduced by improved technology, but not eliminated. Computer programs, video games, stock tickers and station logos can burn permanently into the screen, ruining your expensive TV. LCD and DLP TV screens cannot suffer screen burn-in, ever.

Mistake #6: Don't Let A Know-It-All Pick Your TV! Your neighbor Fred says he's an expert on Big Screen TVs, and volunteers to help you buy one. Fred may be a good guy. . . he may even know the difference between DTV and DLP. But Fred may also be a Boob blowing smoke out the rear of his shorts. How can you tell? Rely on the only person you can trust to look out for your interests . . . you! Listen to Fred, but take him with a grain of salt . . . and do your own research!

Mistake #7: Don't Try To Bring Home A Plasma TV By Yourself! There was a time you could go to Circuit City, buy a 19-inch color TV, throw it in the back seat and take it home . . . those days are over! Shipping a Plasma TV to your home is the only sensible way to get it there; it's too big, expensive, heavy and delicate to be shoved in the trunk of a car. Your retailer will arrange shipping for you; make sure that insurance and order tracking are included in the deal. Don't sign for delivery until you've inspected your TV for damage.

Mistake #8: Don't Install A Plasma TV Without Help! A Plasma TV, although thin, is actually very heavy. A 50-inch Plasma TV can weigh over 160 pounds. Mounting a Plasma TV on it's table stand is a three person job; call some strong friends over. The delivery people will put your TV on the curb, or in your living room, depending on what you paid for. They won't install your TV on a wall mount, that service costs $200-$300.

Mistake #9: Don't Fail To Connect A Dolby Sound System! You shouldn't settle for the sound coming from your TV speakers. Attached to your TV, a Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound amplifier sends six separate channels of sound through speakers in front of, on both sides of and behind the viewer. Home Theater Systems start as low as $250 and go into the thousands; they include an amplifier, five speakers, wire and a sub woofer. Dolby 7.1 is even more advanced with eight sound channels.

Mistake #10: Don't Forget To Budget For Peripherals! For full enjoyment of your new Plasma TV, you'll need lots of other stuff: HDMI cables for each peripheral, surge protectors, a TV stand or wall mount, a HDTV DVD player and digital cable for High Def broadcasts. You'll also need a Home Theater System with at least Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound and a comfortable viewing area. I'm not trying to scare you . . . a modest system can cost less than $300, A good system between $800-$1000 and a Top-of-the-Line system $1500 and up.

Well, there you have it . . . the 10 Biggest Bone-Headed Mistakes you could make when shopping for the perfect Plasma TV! Avoid them like the plague!

Good luck . . . I hope you find the Plasma TV that will thrill your family for years to come!

It's as easy as 123!

About the Author

Ike Ridley is the avid videophile and self-confessed "Movie Nut" who created the website the 123 Guide To Plasma TV . To visit us, click the links or paste this URL into your web browser:

http://www.123-guide-to-plasma-tv.com/

Ike has moved to the Caribbean where he clicks away on his laptop under a palm tree.

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