Computers & Internet--We Help India

Is your computer too slow? It may be a software issue. Most computer users have been trained that if you want more speed for your computer, then add more memory. Well, this is true, in certain circumstances. But for most of the times, it really is just a bad file in your registry files. Corrupted or missing registry files can make your computer too slow.

First off, the Windows registry is basically a database of settings and instructions for everything in your computer: hardware, software, operating system, and even the preferences of the user of the computer. If you have multiple users on a PC, and they each login differently, then these types of preferences, or settings, are stored in the registry.

Also, any time you make a change to any of your computers settings, through the control panel, they are stored and updated in the registry. So, how does the registry get messed up? Well, let’s say you install a new program, and it then changes one of the registry files to work with the new program. The new program works like a champ, but what about the other program. You don’t know yet, because you have not had to use it. But when the time comes to open the old program, and the required registry file is not there, or is different, the computer might just sit there. It has no idea what to do. These problems happen every day to people, even to me. And, this type of problem causes a slow computer.

If you have ever had a problem like this, where the computer is just flat out slow, you need to fix your registry files. And, I guarantee you have errors in the registry files. I run my registry repair software weekly, and find and fix errors. I ran it right before this article, and found 36 errors. When I do optimization for other people’s computers, it is not uncommon to find over 500 errors. Fixing these errors will dramatically increase the speed of your computer. And it is easier and cheaper than buying a bunch of memory you may not need.

With a computer too slow, there is a simple fix. All you need to do is run a registry repair software, and get your Windows registry cleaned up and optimized. You will no longer have a slow computer.

Michael Baker is a Computer Optimization Technician, and recommends getting a Free Computer Scan to fix any problems such as computers freezing, locking up, restarting for no reason, and getting the blue death screen.

Cookies store information in small text files about the websites that you have recently visited. Therefore, it is essential that you delete cookies and history regularly. There are two types of cookies, namely, trustworthy and tracking. Trustworthy cookies are used for remembering the usernames and passwords, helps in tracking the items you have purchased using shopping car. Tracking cookies are used for monitoring websites.

Step-By-Step Techniques A Child Can Do

To delete cookies, open Internet Explorer > Click Tools > Internet Options > In the General tab, click “Delete Cookies.” > You will be asked whether you wish to delete cookies > Click Yes. Now, Click Settings > Click View Files > Press Ctrl + A > Click Delete. There are also a few software’s available for deleting third-party cookies like Cookie Crusher. Sometimes, when you install these software’s, it is possible that the internet speed is slowed.

To surf the web safely, you can update the relevant security patches that are available in the operating system vendor’s website. You might also use a firewall as it controls Internet Cookies and also blocks unwanted data. There are a lot of other hardware and software firewalls available on the web. In general, pornographic gambling, etc. websites pose a greater risk of installing spyware or adware in your system.

Other important things you will have to take care when surfing the web are to block pop-ups and disable AutoComplete.

To block pop-ups, you can download toolbars from Google, Yahoo, MSN, etc. To add a site to the Restricted Sites zone in Internet Explorer, Start Internet Explorer > Click Tools > Internet Options > Click the Security tab > Click Restricted Sites, and then click Sites > In the Add this Web site to the zone box, type the Web address for the site that you want to restrict, and then click Add. Repeat this step if you want to add other sites to the zone. > Click OK > Click Default Level to set the Restricted Sites zone to the recommended level, which disables Active Scripting > Click OK.

You can also disable Active Scripting in Internet Explorer for all sites. This might cause many Webs sites to be displayed incorrectly.

To disable Active Scripting for all Internet sites, Start Internet Explorer > On the Tools menu, click Internet Options > Click the Security tab > Click Internet, and then click Custom Level > Under Active Scripting in the Scripting section, click Disable > Click OK > Click OK.

To disable AutoComplete, Start Internet Explorer > Click Tools > Internet Options > Click the Content tab > Click AutoComplete > Remove the checkmarks from Web addresses, Forms, Usernames and passwords on forms > Click Clear Forms and then Clear passwords > Click OK > Click OK.

Unless absolutely necessary, it is not recommended to download and install any freeware. If you do download free software, only download from developer’s site. Many copycat sites exist that are fraudulent. Downloading from them will most certainly install spyware on your system.

It is also recommended to set the security settings to high if children have access to computer. This can be done by launching Internet Explorer. Click Tools > Internet Options > Select the Privacy tab > Move the slider and set the security settings to high. Also ensure that you do not click pop-ups.

Never ever store your email addresses and password in the system. People might get access to the stored passwords. The best way to store passwords is in the form of an encrypted file for example on a floppy disk. Buy a package of floppy disks from a computer shop and save a text file with your username and password. Then send the file to a floppy disk and delete the file from your computer.

You can also use a free software. This software called Password Safe will save your passwords on your computer but you will create one unique password to access them all.

This is also great if you do not want to use floppy disks.

If the above are followed properly, you just improved your security. The easy to follow instructions make your computer more safe and immune against threats.

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Karl Sultana sells popular software NoAdware. Articles related to Internet security are updated regularly on his blog. Download NoAdware to remove adware and spyware dangers today.

Maybe you're listening to your iPod right now while surfing the net but that's not really very profitable, now is it? Who knew that the little piece of plastic you bought from Apple that keeps skipping and locking up actually has potential for putting some fun extra cash in your wallet.

#1 CREATE A PODCAST Got something on your mind that you think people want to hear about? Turn your iPod into a digital recorder with a universal Mic Adapter. If it's cool enough, maybe you'll get some sponsors or sell ads on your site.

#2 RECORD AN ALBUM Crank out the hottest new lo-fi indie record. You could use the line in on a mic adapter or plug into Belkin's new TuneStudio into using your iPod to record an album.

#3 BECOME A PUBLIC SPEAKER Pitch your project or give seminars by using your iPod for PowerPoint presentations using the software product ipresent it.

#4 DJ AT A CLUB OR HOUSEPARTY Well, it's not exactly DJing in my book since you aren't mixing but dueling iPod mixers have been around for awhile now and if you think you can bring the house down then by all means, shake your money maker.

#5 BE A BARTENDER Make the swankiest new martini or the perfect Long Island by downloading Pocket Bar & Grill and have instant access to 750 mix drink recipes.

Oh and chin up if you can't write a song or speak in public if your life depended on it. I suppose you could always sell your iPod on Ebay, Craigslist or to your funky smelling emo neighbor!

Read about more creative ways to make money online and personal finance visit

http://www.somewhereoverthedebt.com

Many times I have stared at my computer thinking "How do I fix my pc because it keeps crashing?"

Unfortunately there is no simple answer! I used to think this problem was related to buying cheap computers but after buying various laptops and desktops at different price ranges there is one common theme, eventually they will all crash at some stage!

Friends will often think I am a pc expert and will call me asking "How do I fix my pc when it keeps crashing?" Well start by asking yourself these questions...

Have your children be on the pc? Kids are great at downloading spyware by mistake! They will also click on numerous pop up pages and will often change your settings!

Another possible reason your pc keeps crashing is that you have overloaded it! If your pc only has 64mb RAM memory and you install graphic, gaming and other software the chances are that your system will not be able to cope with your software! Most PC's now come with at least 512mb RAM so it is worth upgrading if your pc is not at this level.

However the most common reason that your pc keeps crashing is that it has a virus! Many trojan virus can cause your computer to reboot immediately once all programs have been launched, this can drive you mad and it is not fun as you are helpless!

Best option is to install anti virus software and make sure you only visit trusted websites. If all else fails it is time to reformat your hard drive and wipe your pc clean, this can take hours and you will probably need the data recovery disc that you should have got when you bought the pc.

E-cycle… recycle… return… remanufacture… reuse… refill

Are you getting confused? This is not a new Thesaurus that I am trying to compile. This is just a list of words which are often heard when we discuss ink cartridges. So many ‘re’-s make you ‘rethink’ about the eco-friendliness of the ink cartridge you use. Does the brand of ink you use increase or decrease the pollution level of the world? In other words – ‘How Green is Your Ink?’

There was a time when home printing was unheard of and pollution was more or less controlled as it was confined to the printing presses. Now, not only has the volume of printing increased tremendously but also the waste generated due to it. While printing at home, we mostly discard empty ink cartridges instead of returning it to the manufacturer for recycling, reusing or refilling.

We hardly ever consider the fact that it takes more than a 1,000 years for the plastics used in printer cartridges to decompose. The production of each new cartridge consumes 2 ½ ounces of oil. Approximately 167 million inkjet cartridges are usually used as land-fills causing considerable environmental pollution. However, most of the trash generated is avoidable.

Using remanufactured or refilled cartridges solves the problem of pollution to a certain extent as well as saves resources. Most of the top OEMs have begun re-manufacturing environment-friendly, recyclable ink cartridges and toners. The companies follow stringent quality standards like ISO 9001, and produce cartridges which have higher page yield.

Hewlett Packard has launched a new smaller and lighter cartridge packaging to decrease greenhouse gas emissions. The convenient size of the new packages aspires to reduce truck traffic in North America by approximately 1.5 million miles this year. It also uses recycled content paperboard instead of PVC to pack printer cartridges.

Since December 2006, Epson has started replacing the white ink cartridge packaging with recycled brown cardboard for its large format ink cartridges. The printing on the packages will be changed from color to black and white to reduce the use of chemicals. Epson also aims at eliminating dyes and lessening fabrication processes by making ink cartridge casings in natural color.

Canon participates extensively in environmental issues and offers grants for related projects. During the development stage of the manufacturing process, the effect of the products on the environment is assessed. Preventive steps are included into the product design to reduce the hazards.

But this is what the OEMs do. What about you? How eco-conscious are you as a consumer? Did you know that the parts used to manufacture cartridges, like aluminium, steel, plastic, toner, ink and foam can be reused to make a range of new products?

The inkjet inks, pigment color agent used in toners and plastics can be reused to produce eWood (a plastic timber replacement product). Steel and aluminium can be smelted into new steel and aluminium products and used to produce structural metal beams for buildings.

So, the next time your printer runs out of ink, make a smart and eco-friendly disposal of your cartridge.

So the network administrator has been mean enough to ban your favorite sites in your office, school, hostel or even the entire country? You can tell them now Internet has no place for censorship.

First I heard that new government in Thailand has banned Youtube.com, and a fellow blogger Earl-Ku has confirmed that his blog is not accessible from China. What the hell is wrong with these people in power?

If my previous post about tor and privoxy was too much of hassle for you, read on and I have a simpler way for you to bypass unreasonable website blocking.

Thanks to the big daddies on the Internet, they are offering wonderful services for free. For example, Google Language Tools and Yahoo! Babel Fish. These online translator tools are well known to everyone, but you haven’t seen the hidden beauty of them.

For instance, my blog is in English. Can you translate it to other languages? Of course you can! By doing so in google, you are actually request from this URL http://64.233.179.104/, instead of http://www.nixser.com/. Get the idea? It doesn’t matter if your network blocks nixser.com or not as long as google is able to pull data from it, so a locally blocked site is practically still accessible.

Now reverse the trick, what if we translate the site from Chinese to English. Refer to the links below.

Google Translate.
http://64.233.179.104/translate_c?langpair=zh%7Cen&u=http://www.nixser.com/

Yahoo! Babel Fish
http://babelfish.yahoo.com/translate_url?doit=done&tt=url&intl=1&fr=bf-home& trurl=http://www.nixser.com&lp=zt_en&btnTrUrl=Translate

Notice any difference? You can simply replace “http://www.nixser.com” with any other URL for a fast result. Happy surfing guys! Remember, Internet is virtually the last free soil on the planet, say no to censorship, but behave yourself when something naughty is going on!

There are few people that don’t interact with technology on any given day. It seems that many of us are turning over our lives and many of our worries to technological advances – some for better, but others for worse. But when we use technology as a way to lessen our overall workload and subsequent stress, the fast pace of technology doesn’t seem like that bad of a process.

Many of us are using technology as a way to organize our lives and stay in contact with other people. We have personal digital assistants, portable computers, digital music players, and televisions. All of these allow us to interact with others or learn more information than we had in the past. We are a more informed society because of technology, but there are disadvantages to these advances.

When you look at the Internet as one of the newer forms of technology, you begin to see that while everyone has access to information, it also means that anyone has access to this information. Anyone can write anything and place it on the Internet for someone else to read and use to add to their knowledge. But not all of the information is truthful, nor is it objective in nature. However, when you consider how fast we need to gather information at times, it almost seems like it doesn’t matter whether information is accurate – just that we can attain it.

Another consideration of the faster pace of technology is its strain on our wallets and egos. New pieces of technology are always more expensive until we learn newer and cheaper ways to produce them. Or when people start to buy more of them, we produce more, lowering their price. But since every piece of technology can be improved, the process never seems to end. Tangled in with these advances is the ego driven need to have the newest and best things in our possession, lest our neighbors or coworkers ‘beat us’ to them. We always want the best of everything, but we can end up paying more for something that will only be improved again in a few months.

Where does that leave the fast pace of technology? On one hand, we are constantly learning about the way that our world works and how we can manipulate technology to help us in this world. But on the other hand, we might be starting to look so closely at what we could do, and less at what we can already do.

SCADA is an acronym that stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. SCADA refers to a system that collects data from various sensors at a factory, plant or in other remote locations and then sends this data to a central computer which then manages and controls the data

SCADA systems are used not only in industrial processes: e.g. steel making, power generation (conventional and nuclear) and distribution, chemistry, but also in some experimental facilities such as nuclear fusion. The size of such plants range from a few 1000 to several 10 thousands input/output (I/O) channels. However, SCADA systems evolve rapidly and are now penetrating the market of plants with a number of I/O channels of several 100 K: we know of two cases of near to 1 M I/O channels currently under development.

There are many parts of a working SCADA system. A SCADA system usually includes signal hardware (input and output), controllers, networks, user interface (HMI), communications equipment and software. All together, the term SCADA refers to the entire central system. The central system usually monitors data from various sensors that are either in close proximity or off site (sometimes miles away).

An industrial measurement and control system consisting of a central host or master (usually called a master station, master terminal unit or MTU); one or more field data gathering and control units or remotes (usually called remote stations, remote terminal units, or RTU's); and a collection of standard and/or custom software used to monitor and control remotely located field data elements. Contemporary SCADA systems exhibit predominantly open-loop control characteristics and utilise predominantly long distance communications, although some elements of closed-loop control and/or short distance communications may also be present.

Systems similar to SCADA systems are routinely seen in factories, treatment plants etc. These are often referred to as Distributed Control Systems (DCS). They have similar functions to SCADA systems, but the field data gathering or control units are usually located within a more confined area. Communications may be via a local area network (LAN), and will normally be reliable and high speed. A DCS system usually employs significant amounts of closed loop control.

SCADA systems on the other hand generally cover larger geographic areas, and rely on a variety of communications systems that are normally less reliable than a LAN. Closed loop control in this situation is less desirable.

For more SCADA Tutorials visit SCADA Tutorials

As we know, decision making is the fundamental job of managers and there are various information systems i.e. Management information systems (MIS), Executive information system (EIS) that are helping managers in decision making process. Our central consideration point of this article is DSS and its roles in management perspectives. We will discuss –

• The role played by DSS in the process of decision making
• The changes coming in scenario about the role of DSS in decision making.

Decision Support Systems (DSS) are a class of computerized information system that supports decision-making activities. DSS are interactive computer-based systems and subsystems intended to help decision makers use communications technologies, data, documents, knowledge and/or models to complete decision process tasks.

Decision Support Systems have evolved over the last 25 years from inflexible mainframe systems, to isolated PC tools, to client/server data dippers, and now to high-performance and extensible enterprise decision-support applications, often involving the organization’s intranet. At the same time, the relationship between the IT Department and users has evolved from stormy to co-operative.

The huge umbrella of decision support systems (DSS) has long provided a welcome gathering spot for those interested in building software applications based on a mixture of models, data analysis, and powerful interfaces. DSS attracts practitioners, scholars and students from a range of fields including information systems, operations research/management science, computer science, psychology and other business disciplines.

The problem: There has been a virtual revolution in terms of spreadsheet based management science and operations management courses that seems to have stuck in business schools. Spreadsheets have evolved into a quite capable platform for end-user decision support modeling.

For example, within Microsoft Excel, this evolution has resulted in the inclusion of Solver for optimization, Pivot Tables, database connectivity, numerous mathematical and statistical functions and the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) programming language.

The problem is coming from this picture where instead of using management skills for making decision, managers are very much dependent on DSS tools for making decisions. It might be more crucial when new managers will have lack of management skills and they will totally dependent on DSS tools.

So, we can make questions:

• What are the reasons behind that managers are depending so much on DSS tools?
• What should be the optimized ratio of using desktops and management skills for decision making?

• A decision-maker: an individual or group charged with making a particular decision.
• A set of inputs to the decision-making process: data, numerical or qualitative models for interpreting that data, historical experience with similar data sets or similar decision-making situations, and various kinds of cultural and psychological norms and constraints associated with decision-making
• The decision-making process itself: a set of steps, more or less well-understood, for transforming the inputs into outputs in the form of decisions,
• A set of outputs from the decision-making process, including the decisions themselves and (ideally) a set of criteria for evaluating decisions produced by the process against the set of needs, problems or objectives that occasioned the decision-making activity in the first place.
• As soon as we look at this model, we realize that talking about decision support systems outside of a particular domain of decision-making is not particularly useful.

For this reason alone, this essay limits its scope to commercial decision support systems: IT infrastructure designed to support the decision-making processes in publicly-held and private firms that compete in open markets for customers, revenue and market share.

How do DSS environments support decision-making? DSS environments support the generic decision-making model above in a number of ways:

• In decision preparation, DSS environments provide data required as input to the decision-making process. This is all about data mart and data warehousing environments do today.
• In decision structuring, DSS environments provide tools and models for arranging the inputs in ways that make sense to frame the decision. These tools and models are not pivot tables and other aspects of data presentation found in query tools. They are actual decision making tools, like fault tree analysis, Bayesian logic and model-based decision-making based on things like neural networks.
• In context development, DSS environments again provide tools, and provide the mechanisms for capturing information about a decision’s constituencies (who’s affected by this decision), outcomes and their probabilities, and other elements of the larger decision making context.
• In decision-making, DSS environments may automate all or part of the decision-making process and offer evaluations on the optimal decision. Expert systems and artificial intelligence environments purport to do this, but they work only in very limited cases.
• In decision propagation, DSS environments take the information gathered about constituencies and dependencies and outcomes and drive elements of the decision into those constituencies for action.
• In decision management, DSS environments inspect outcomes days, weeks and months after decisions to see if (a) the decision was implemented/propagated and (b) if the effects of the decision are as expected.

• Pick the class of decision-making processes to focus on,
• Narrow the range of inputs, the range of activities and the differences in models and methods,
• Most importantly, to understand where technology ceases to play any meaningful role in decision-making, and where policy becomes the determinant of the quality and quantity of decisional effectiveness.

There are eyes everywhere, and they do not belong to humans. In today's fast-paced modern world, video surveillance has become as essential to society as security guards and gateways. Mention video surveillance and the average Joe will instantly associate the term with video cameras mounted in banks and department stores or videotapes of an erring spouse marked as Exhibit A in a messy divorce proceeding.

The history of video surveillance is as complex as the system behind it. In fact, it goes back much farther in time than most of us realize. Press reports indicate that as early as 1965, United States police have been using video surveillance in public places. By 1969, police cameras had been mounted in strategic areas of the New York City Municipal Building. This set a strong precedent, and it was not long before the practice spread to other cities and police officers kept close watch on key areas, with the use of CCTV, or closed circuit television, systems.

Analog Beginnings Video cassette tapes are largely responsible for popularizing video surveillance. The analog technology used in video cassette recording gave decision-makers a ground-breaking insight: it is possible to preserve evidence on tape.

In 1975, England installed video surveillance systems in four of its major underground train stations. At the same time, they also started monitoring traffic flow on major highways. The United States followed suit during the 1980s, and though it had not been as quick as England in utilizing video surveillance, it made up for lost time by widely instituting video surveillance systems in public areas.

Digital Multiplexing and Subsequent Developments One drawback to analog technology was that users had to change the tapes daily. This was remedied in the 1990s, with the introduction of digital multiplexing. Digital multiplexer units had features like time-lapse and motion-only recording, which saved a great deal of tape space. Additionally, it enabled simultaneous recordings on several cameras.

The next advancement, digitalization, featured compression capability and low cost, thereby allowing users to record a month's worth of surveillance videos on hard drive. Additionally, digitally recorded images are clearer and allowed manipulation of images to improve clarity.

9/11 and the Internet The events of September 11, 2001 changed the public's perception of video surveillance. Software developers created programs that enhance video surveillance. Facial recognition programs is one of these programs. Using key facial feature points, recorded faces are compared to photographs of terrorists and criminals.

In May 2002, facial recognition software was installed on the computer video surveillance cameras at Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. That same year, SmartGate was installed at the Sydney International Airport in Australia. SmartGate is an automated border crossing system for airline crew members. The system scans crew members' faces, compares these to passport photos, and confirms identity in less than ten seconds.

In December 2003, the Royal Palm Middle School in Phoenix, Arizona installed face recognition video surveillance. This is a pilot program for registering sex offenders and tracking missing children.

To all these developments, the Internet is the cherry on top. It revolutionized video surveillance by removing all impediments for viewing and monitoring anywhere in the world.

Clearly, humankind has created better and more refined means for video surveillance. Smaller, sleeker, and more powerful video surveillance systems come out in the market nearly every month. Satellites bounce signals around the world. There are, indeed, eyes everywhere, and several of them are in the sky.

Someone is always watching.

Learn more about video surveillance equipment, CCTV cameras and wireless security cameras when you visit Video-Surveillance-Guide.com today!

XDA – an acronym for Mobile Phone and PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) together

The Xda Neo with its compatibility with Microsoft windows brings this model a step forward. The technological advancements in the theme “All-in-one” gave generation to this model. Neo has certain appealing features for the person who needs

Data Storage: Secure Digital (SD) Memory card and internal RAM provides a user enough working space. The exchangeable SD Memory card with 1GB or more space can store somehow 3000 photos with 2 mega Pixels or document files…

Display – Portrait and landscape: User definable display is also an interesting feather of this mobile. You can easily play with the photos; the text or PDF files in landscape mode can be read easier than in portrait mode.

Microsoft Office package: It is a Mobile version package of The Microsoft Office which consists of MS word, Excel and the Power point for presentation. One can work with MS mobile Word and Mobile Excel. Synchronize with the PC and also work there! Neo’s compatibility with PC is encouraging but the Mobile Power Point in neo is only for the presentation. One can only view but not work!

Microsoft outlook compatibility: significantly, the data and contacts can be back up on PC. Microsoft outlook provides you the synchronization between the both, PC and XDA. The transfer of new contacts from Xda to PC or vice versa

Furthermore PDF Viewer is a good addition which provides you a facility to read the PDF files, E-book and user manuals etc.

Keyboard: The QWERT keyboard with numbers and without number can also be defined by the user. The setting depends on the size of the fonts. If you use large fonts then the number keypad appears in a separate key board.

Camera – 2 Mega Pixel with audio recording – although the resolution and the quality of the photos depends on the light and size of the photo taken but over all quality is not that compared to the Nokia or Sony mobiles.

Good reception even the signal quality is low!

Flight mode: personally this feature is very special to me. In flight mode one can switch off all the radio functions which interferes the performance of the Global positioning system in the aeroplane or could disturb sensitive instruments in the hospitals. Flight mode is, sometimes, referred as off-line mode too. One can freely work with the 195 MHz processor for document files or presentation. One can also play games etc.. as all the radio features have been switched off.

The home zone control: it is additional software, applicable in Germany only! Because the facility to receive the calls on your home number which is actually a-short-range mobile number, you can check if your home-zone number is activated or you can deactivate no mater if you are in the home zone. Personally experienced is shock proof style. The cover and somehow the hard diffusive nature of the side frame of the Xda made me fascinated. Dropped accidentally 4 times gave only some scratches but the LCD and the remaining functions are still working property.

Wireless LAN gives an easy access to internet with 11Mb/sec. Messaging by Messenger (already installed MSN messenger or user installed Skype) can be a good alternatives to instant connection round the world. Being a Quad band mobile it can be used anywhere in the world if it is SIM free…

Mr. MALIK graduated with distinction from the University of Punjab (Pakistan) in 2001. For further education he went to Germany and secured M.Sc. thesis from the University of Stuttgart (Germany) in 2003. Now he is striving for his Ph.D. in Physics. His interests are Microelectronic Device Fabrication. Organic semiconductors, Diffusion barrier layers. Inorganic Coatings, Plasma CVD.

To know different cultures, learn other languages, discuss closely related religions, life styles and English, Arabic calligraphy are some of the extra curricular activities which are a significant part of his life.

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

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

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

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

You have decided to buy a nice laptop by using my laptop buying guide (link below), but you can't quite justify or maybe afford spending that much money on it.

Is there some way to cut the cost a little bit, without sacrificing too much?

Yes. You make compromises. But at this point, only you can decide where you are willing to skimp.

The $2000 laptop that most of my clients end up buying is tailored to last 3 - 4 years, with contented computing along the way. Ok, maybe we'll have to reload Windows at the 2 year point to regain that new computer performance, but at least it can be done.

Here are 7 areas to consider for paring the cost of that new laptop:

1. Overall brand quality. Not a good idea in my book to skimp too much here. Witness my previous blog posts about the Sony VAIO. Others on the web have had similar recommendations to avoid that one. But still there might be a way to get a good brand without paying top dollar. The web provides tools to find the deals.
2. Processor. I normally pick the fastest processor on the price/performance curve that sits right where cost starts increasing faster than performance gain. You can cheat a little here and hopefully still get 3 years from the hardware. Just don't count on upgrading the processor later - no matter what any salesman tells you.
3. RAM. This isn't a bad place to save some money, because you can easily upgrade later. Just don't go through the manufacturer; companies like DELL can really sock it to you on upgrades. Choose someplace like Crucial.com instead. Tip: Depending on price structure, getting, say 512MB in 1 DIMM now lets you add 1 more 512MB DIMM later for a total of 1GB and still make use of the 512 that came with it. If you buy 512 via 2 DIMMs, you will have to remove 1 or both DIMMs later to add more, thus throwing away value (maybe you can eBay it for a couple bucks).
4. Screen. Older eyes might prefer the lower resolution of a less expensive screen. Most laptops have 1 or maybe 2 native resolutions that actually look good. These are fairly high resolutions that many over 40, especially women, find difficult to read. Dell's WSXGA is as good of screen as WSXGA+ or WUXGA, just lower resolution. Compare before you buy!
5. Hard Drive. Go smaller if you like, but don't go slower. 7200rpm or faster (faster not available as of this writing) is all you want to consider. End of discussion, don't listen to anyone else.
6. Video card. For strictly business usage on Windows XP, you can save a little here. If you are doing a lot of graphics work, watching movies, or expect to use Windows Vista with the Aero interface, I wouldn't advise skimping here.
7. Warranty. This is your call. See my post on CompleteCare. Repairs are expensive; do you ordinarily self-insure? Computer hardware has a nasty habit of dying within 30 days of warranty expiration - call it Murphy's Law if you like.

Operating system is possibly an 8th point to consider for reducing cost. Don't pay extra for Windows Vista Ultimate if you aren't going to need the features, and don't skimp down to Vista Basic and then wonder why you don't have the cool Aero interface. Again, compare before you buy.

Oh, and here's the link to my laptop buying guide that I mentioned above. Click here.

The buying guide is already tuned pretty well for cost versus performance, so take the guide and the 7 cost paring tips, then see if you can come up with the perfect fit for you and your budget.

The choice is yours. Just do yourself a favor and choose wisely! I hope the resources I have given you here will help.

Roger DeReu has been working with PC's, as a programmer, IT specialist and independent consultant, since 1984. He currently consults primarily with small and medium sized businesses in the Midwest. He is a Microsoft Certified Professional and Small Business Specialist. The FreeComputerConsultant website was originally created to be a free resource for the employees of his clients to have access to his knowledge for benefit of their home PC's.

You've decided to buy a laptop, but don't really know how to go about it.

I get asked time and again how to buy a laptop. Sometimes it's for a student, other times for an adult who just wants the freedom to roam around the house while computing.

So I have come up with a short procedure to follow that will act as a guide to get the right product for the right purpose.

Step 1: Determine who is going to use it. Not just the individual, but is this person - old or young (need reading glasses yet)? Computer literate or illiterate (PC or MAC)? A person who takes care of his hardware or someone careless?

Once I had a client who was blind and looking for a laptop. At the time, Toshiba had the best name in the business. We called a techy type guy who worked for an association for the blind who was also sight impaired.

His comment to us was that blind people can be a bit harder on things, for obvious reasons, and that Toshiba laptops don't hold up quite as well to being banged around. He recommended some other brands instead.

Experience has also shown me that college students who don't have to buy their own laptop have a distinct tendency to be harder on things also. Make sure they have a well padded case and use it.

The answers derived in Step 1 will trickle down to the rest of the 5 steps, as you will see.

Step 2: How long does this person need it for? Is it a student going to college and you, the parent, want it to last for the entire 4 year program (hopefully they'll finish in 4 years!)?. If so, you want enough performance and warranty to last that long.

On the other hand, maybe you are buying for someone with plenty of money who likes the latest and greatest. (Is there a doctor in the house?) In that case, put money into power and toys, not lengthy warranty.

If it's for an election worker, the laptop is probably not needed for more than a year or so, two at the most. Configure it accordingly.

Step 3: Determine the ergonomics. This is about the only use I have for big box stores. Wander the aisles and try out the different pointing devices and keyboards. Decide if you want widescreen or standard aspect ratio (standard is getting harder to find).

Do you like the glossy screen or will glare be a big problem where you are likely to use it most? Maybe you prefer matte finish. Glossy looks a little sharper for movies and Windows Vista Aero interface, and to see if someone is sneaking up behind you. But if you have an office with lots of windows or flourescent lights, matte may be better for you.

If you will be using the laptop outside a lot, you may want to try out some laptops - from friends or coworkers - in that environment. It's no fun if you can't read the screen.

Size and Weight. Does it need to be compact or light? Some very nice units weigh in at under 4 pounds yet have a large enough keyboard and screen to be quite usable.

A typical high powered laptop will run around 6.5 pounds. But a laptop with a behemoth 17" screen tips the scale at almost 10 pounds!

Step 4: What kind of support will you need for it? Are you the type that just isn't comfortable talking to support staff in India, and would rather walk up to a counter with a live (even if disinterested) human being?

Or are you self sufficient enough to handle simple things on your own, maybe even get out a screwdriver and start prying the keyboard off if directed to?

Buy a laptop from a vendor who will give the kind of support that you require.

Step 5: Do you have budget constraints? If so, you may want to reference my article on "How to Buy a Laptop - 7 Areas to Cut Costs". Otherwise, you can skip right to my Laptop Buying Guide and see exactly what kind of system I recommend for the best price/performance purchase.

Do your research when buying a laptop. Do everything you can to help insure that you will be happy with it.

But, just in case, check out the return policy if you find that you really didn't get what you expected.

Roger DeReu has been working with PC's, as a programmer, IT specialist and independent consultant, since 1984. He currently consults primarily with small and medium sized businesses in the Midwest. He is a Microsoft Certified Professional and Small Business Specialist. The FreeComputerConsultant was originally created to be a free resource for the employees of his clients to have access to his knowledge for benefit of their home PC's.

The Sony Ericsson K550i is a digital camera phone with Bluetooth technology. The digital camera can zoom in for a better resolution picture or you can take panoramic photos. The camera is a 2megapixal Cyber-Shot with auto focus, 2.25 digital zoom and 64 MB Memory Plus Memory Stick Micro M2. It is capable of video play and record as well, especially with the VideoDJ feature. If you like the idea of blogging, try picture blogging. That capability is featured on this model, too.

The web browser installed on the Sony Ericsson K550i is the Access NetFront web browser. For those who keep up on news with RSS feeds, this phone can do that as well. This phone is also Quad Band (GSM 850, GSM 900, GSM 1800 & GSM 1900) networked so coverage and reception are good whether you are making or receiving a call or browsing the web.

Do you need to access your email wherever you are? The Sony Ericsson K550i supports push email as well as SMS, SMS Long and MMS. The predictive text input feature saves time when sending the same or similar messages. Other email clients supported on this mobile phone are POP3, IMAP4 and SMTP.

Music is also an important feature of this phone. You can download music in three clicks with Playnow to give you new MP3 ringtones and music with ease. With the built-in media player and FM radio RDS, music is as easy as the touch of a button. With MusicDJ and TrackID, you can have your music however you want it. The Bluetooth capability makes talking and listening wireless and easy. The MP3 player supports MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, m4a so having music in almost any format is possible on this model.

For the game lovers, there are 3D, Java, Embedded and downloadable games to provide hours of gaming fun. Whether games, music or video is your choice, this model can accommodate the downloads with GPRS connectivity. Navigation for what ever you need to do is easy with the 5-way keypad.

Even with the features this mobile phone has, it is one of the thinnest available. At 85g, it is lightweight, making it easy to carry in a pocket or handbag. Color options are limited but stylish with Jet Black or Pearl White. The Sony Ericsson K550i is packed with in demand features in a rather small package that makes it an in demand mobile phone.

Business checks are among the first things to start with when operating a business. If you do not take into account a safe method of keeping records of all expenses, you will greatly miss out on the necessary organization you need to keep track of the progress of your business.

If you prefer not to do it manually, you can always go for the business checks that work with accounting software. These types of business checks are inserted in your computer printer to generate the payments in the corresponding amounts. In such a manner, you supervise the organization of your business checks while retaining their professional look.

How do you do it? What makes it possible? You can print your own business checks through the use of the business check printing software. Such software works effectively with the current accounting software your office has. Forget every worry regarding the piles of checks you need to write and the many pre-numbered business checks you need to finish because the business check printing software will do the task for you.

Top Reasons to Use Business Check Printing Software

Printing your checks allows you to save money. After all, pre-numbered checks are not cheap at all!

Mistakes made with pre-numbered checks cannot be altered, so you must therefore void the check number and print a new one. This will definitely cause you to spend more money and wait for the shipment of your order. With the business check printing software, you can print a new check in no time at all.

The check printing software works compatibly with any account software.

The business check printing software relieves you of the tiring process of signing and re-running checks, as it prints all of the pertinent check information that must be contained.

Technologically savvy offices presently make use of laser printers and top quality papers in tandem with the printing software.

If, by all means, you wish to save time and decrease your expenditures without compromising the quality of your business checks, 'check' out reliable business check printing software, which you can purchase from various sellers. Your savings will quickly pile up.

Check Printing provides detailed information on Check Printing, Check Printing Companies, Check Printing Software, Business Check Printing and more. Check Printing is affiliated with Checking Accounts.

Linux Commands - The great thing about Linux commands is that they are virtually identical from one Linux distribution (version) to another. So the way the real pros do Linux administration is to work at the Linux command line and run Linux commands.

Learning how to run a Linux command can be very difficult for someone new to Linux, so here are some Linux tips that will help you to learn how to use Linux commands when working at the Linux command line prompt.

There are three main parts of a Linux command:

1. The Linux command name

2. Options that can be used with the Linux command

3. The "item(s)" that the Linux command is being run "on"

When you run a Linux command, spaces are used between: the Linux command name, the command options and the "item" the command is being run "on". The "item" could be a Linux directory, file, user or some other Linux software component.

For example, you run the Linux command named ls (for list) "on" a Linux directory to see a list of files in the directory. You run the Linux command named rm (remove) "on" a Linux directory to remove the directory from the Linux file system.

To run a Linux command, you type in the name of the command, and any other parts of the command, such as options, and press the Enter key.

You can see an example of the Linux command that is used to create a new Linux user below. The useradd command is being run "on" the bthatcher user name to create this Linux user.

Linux Tips: Linux commands are run at the Linux command line prompt and this prompt is shown as ]# at the left of the command. You don't type in the prompt, you type the Linux command at the right of the prompt.

Linux Tips: The Linux command prompt may also appear as: ]$ or as another symbol, instead of # or $.

]# useradd -c "Becky Thatcher" bthatcher

This Linux command creates a new Linux user named bthatcher with the full name of "Becky Thatcher". The -c (for comment) option is used with this command to add the full name as a comment to the Linux user name of bthatcher.

One of the easiest and best ways to get Linux training is to see Linux commands being run in Linux video tutorials. With this method - you see, hear and do.

With a Linux video tutorial, you see and hear how to run a Linux command and see and hear a description of the output of the command. You can also pause the video so you can run the Linux command yourself!

Here are two popular ways to get the Linux OS (operating system) up and running:

1. Install Linux from a Linux CD / DVD.

This method can be complicated and very time consuming, but is also a great way to get experience using Linux.

2. Use Linux live CDs (or Linux live DVDs).

This is a fast and easy way to run Linux and will also help you get Linux training experience.

As an alternative to the above two methods, there is also an excellent way to download Linux free and install Linux in Windows, so you can learn how to use Linux in Windows.

Overview of Running Linux in Windows

Just boot your computer system into Windows and download the free Linux virtual machine player. Then download a free Linux virtual machine.

Install the Linux virtual machine player in Windows and uncompress the Linux virtual machine files into a folder. Then run the player and "open" the Linux virtual machine. This allows you to quickly and easily run Linux in Windows!

Linux Tips: There are hundreds of free Linux virtual machines available for download - and they are very easy to use. So you may want to download and try several. This is a great way to get Linux training on several Linux distributions. High-speed Internet access is recommended for this.

Using the Linux Virtual Machine Player

The free Linux virtual machine "player" (program) is run and then used to open a Linux virtual machine to run Linux in Windows. You run the virtual machine player and open a Linux virtual machine in the same way as your run a word processor (program) and open a letter.

Linux Virtual Machines - What They Are and How They're Created

A Linux virtual machine is a complete, fully functional Linux distribution (version of Linux) in a single compressed file.

To create a Linux virtual machine, someone runs the Linux installation routine from a Linux CD / DVD and does a Linux installation on a system. This puts the Linux OS and Linux software program files onto the system.

All these Linux files are then compressed into a single file and made available at a web site, so you can easily download the free Linux virtual machine and run Linux in Windows.

Linux Tips: When you go to download a Linux virtual machine, be sure to read the specs of the system at the Linux download web site.

Linux Tips: If you are a new Linux user, make sure the virtual machine has a Linux desktop (as many don't) and also get the password of the root user (which is the main Linux administration user).

A free Linux virtual machine is the easiest and fastest way to run Linux in Windows and get Linux training on an existing Windows system!

Another great way to get Linux training is to start up your Linux virtual machine and then watch Linux video tutorials (in Windows or in Linux). Just watch a bit of a video and pause it. Then hold down the Alt and Tab keys to move to the Linux virtual machine (running in Windows) and try the Linux command you've just seen!

After working and experimenting with the Linux command in the virtual machine, just press Alt+Tab to go back to the video tutorial and watch some more. Then pause the video and try the next Linux command, and so on.

You get real, practical Linux training when you get Linux running on a computer system, and you work with it to get experience.

Once you get the Linux OS (operating system) running, you can learn how to use Linux desktops, run Linux software programs, and most importantly, go to the Linux command line to run Linux commands - the real power behind Linux system administration.

Two popular methods of getting to work with the Linux OS are:

1. Install Linux from CD or DVD onto the hard disk in a system

2. Boot and run Linux from Linux live CDs or DVDs (without installing Linux)

Here are some of the pros and cons of installing Linux on a system and running Linux from a live CD or DVD.

Linux Live CDs - Pros

1. The Linux OS boots and runs in just a few minutes entirely from a single Linux live CD (or DVD).

2. A lengthy Linux installation is not required. You don't need to provide a lot of settings to the Linux installation routine and then wait while the Linux OS and Linux software programs are copied onto the hard disk.

Also, if you install Linux on Windows, you need to back up your system before you do and you may damage your Windows setup during the Linux installation - or if you remove Linux later!

3. You only need to get 1 Linux live CD or DVD, as opposed to possibly needing several when you install Linux. Therefore, if you download Linux to burn a Linux ISO file to CD / DVD, you only need to wait while 1 Linux CD / DVD is downloaded.

4. Linux live CDs / DVDs are very inexpensive. If you don't want to download Linux as a live CD / DVD, you can order one and have it mailed to any location on the planet for a very small amount of money. Just run your browser and do a search for "list of linux cds" or "list of linux dvds".

Linux Tips: If you are going to buy a Linux live version and you have a DVD drive, get a Linux live DVD rather than a CD. A DVD holds about six times as much as a CD. Therefore, you'll get lots (and lots) more Linux software programs on a DVD!

5. A Linux live CD can easily be removed and taken anywhere. Portable Linux!

6. You can save your work (data files) - if you get the right Linux live CD or DVD.

Linux Tips: Before getting a Linux live CD / DVD, do some research to make sure you can save your work. Some Linux live distros let you save your data and some don't. For example, the Ubuntu Linux live CD allows you to save your work to a USB flash drive.

Linux Live CDs - Cons

1. Although booting from a Linux live CD / DVD is faster than doing a complete Linux installation, you still need to wait while your system boots from the live CD / DVD, every time your system starts. If you usually keep your system turned on, this isn't an issue.

2. You may not be able to save your work. Some Linux live CD / DVD distros allow you to save your work and some don't.

3. You need to boot from the Linux live CD / DVD every time your system starts. This may not be very convenient if you need to put other CDs or DVDs in the drive while running Linux "live". Any time you need to put something in your drive, you have to remove the live CD / DVD. This also increases the likelihood that your live CD or DVD will become damaged.

Linux Tips: Keep a copy of your current Linux live CD handy in case your working copy becomes damaged.

Either way, installing Linux or using Linux live CDs (or Linux live DVDs), is an excellent way to get Linux training so you can learn how to use Linux.

Clyde Boom, Author and Expert Trainer with 20+ Years of Training Successes. Explains intricate technical matters in an easy-to- understand, non-technical manner, with tens of thousands of software and hardware learners into masters.

So you have an idea for a website and you have no clue how to make a website and no clue how you even put your idea up on the World Wide Web. That's alright. Many people have that same problem. The sad thing is they don't pursue that idea to learning how to go through the process. That is why this article will help the beginner become informed and will get their dream of a website of the ground floor.

First, think of your idea and try to come up with a domain name that fits the theme of your website. A domain name is pretty much http://www.######.com, .org, or. net. Being that there are millions of websites, your domain choice may already be in use by someone who thought of that idea first. So take time and think of a few to ensure that you get one of the choices you made up. After you got all the domain names chosen, search around to see if some of your domain name ideas are original so you can move on the next step.

Now that you have your original domain name idea, you have to claim it as your own. This process is called "Domain Name Registration." This basically makes your domain name exclusively yours so that no one comes in and makes the same name as you.

Ok, so you got your site name and you have it registered so it will not be stolen from you. Now you have to get some space that you can put your website on. This is called "Web Hosting." Web hosting is basically a server that holds all the information to your website. Some Web hosts will try to rip off the newcomers to website makers and try to rip you off. When looking for web hosting, the best thing is to look for the best space for the price. Some web hosting sites are free and have lots of space. Why spend a lot of money on space when you don't have to spend much at all?

Three of the four major adjectives are complete. Now comes time to actually create the website. There are many different ways to create a website if you have no experience in doing so. You can take lessons and learn online how to use the language of HTML, or you can simply use templates that are already created for you and basically just fill in the blanks. There are many different programs you can use to create a website, it really depends on what kind of site you would like to make.

Now that you have got the basics of how to create a website, it is time to put your new knowledge to use. Always remember to keep up to date on the new things that always keep appearing online that can help better your website.