Hardware
The What, When, Where and How of Online Computer Forums
Dave Page asked: Computer ForumsWhile computer technology and technology as a whole continues to advance, the discussions based on computer technology continues to grow online also. All of the who, what, when, where and how questions are posted and answered at forums by people from around the world. Computer enthusiast and novice users alike all take part in detailed discussion centered around computers. There are various kinds of computer forums online to choose from. Forums may be solely based on a particular computer brand or one of the many computer parts and accessories. Sections may include computer security; Operating Systems (OS), software and hardware just to name a few. Or, all of the above.Computer forum benefitsOne of the primary reasons people join and view computer forums is for the troubleshooting help. Imagine yourself having trouble with your computer. For XP users, this shouldn’t be very hard to do! You may have several options available to you that could resolve the issue. The only problem is, you may not even know where to begin. Chances are that the same computer worries you are having someone else has had also. No only that but the same problem has probably been extensively discussed [...]
The New Generation Pc Monitors
Alden Jerry asked: A computer is incomplete without its output device. Any work cannot be accomplished without this device. PC monitors are called visual display device units, which are simply known as monitors. There are generally five types of monitor available in the market. These are,- Cathode ray tube, passive liquid crystal display, TFT monitor, Plasma monitor and Penetron monitor.The performance of a monitor can be measured by some factors like response time, refresh rate, display resolution, power consumption, contrast ratio and luminance. Modern computer displays can show thousands or millions of different colours in RGB colour space signals in continually variable intensities. While many monitors have the analog signal relay, some more recent models (mostly LCD) screens come with digital input signals. It is a common misconception that all computer monitors out there in the market use the digital technology.The traditional home computers were using a composite signal output to drive the CRT monitor. Those were known as TTLs, which used to result in degraded resolution. Later, the digital monitors come with the support of LVDS, or TMDS protocols. For displaying the computer generated output, several different technologies are used like the liquid crystal display technology, video projector technology, [...]
Using an External Hard Drive to Keep your Data Safe
Niall Roche asked: If you want to keep your data completely safe, you should look into types of data backup that do not require constant power supplies. While discs such as CDs and DVDs are a good way to make a smaller, permanent backup, external hard drives are another great way to back up your data safely. Just make sure that the drives do not stay connected to your computer and on – otherwise they’ll be as at risk as your normal internal drives. You don’t want your backup to be damaged in the same disaster that takes out your computer!External hard drives are not actually new technology. In fact, these drives work in much the same way as a normal hard drive. Before external drives were affordable, there are some computer users who made external drives by setting internal drives into an outer casing. These worked fairly well, but they did not stand up to being moved around as much.Over the last several years, external drives have become affordable, small, and easy to use. There are even some compact USB hard drives that can fit in a pocket. These drives are also much faster than they used to be, [...]
How Large, How Fast? Choosing the Right Hard Drive Size and Rpm
Tim Childree asked: There are two important considerations when looking at hard drive specifications for your computer notebook: hard drive size and hard drive RPM.Hard Drive SizeHard drive size simply refers to the data storage capacity of a hard disk drive. Desktop computer hard drives offer sizes of up to 500 gigabytes (GB), while notebook computer hard dives offer sizes of up to 160 GB. Notebook computer hard drives are more expensive than desktop computer hard drives with more than twice the capacity of the notebook hard drive. This is due to the engineering difficulties inherent in making high-capacity hard drives for the smaller notebook computers form-factor.A notebook computer’s hard drive size indicates how much data a notebook computer can store. If you are interested in storing large amounts of movies, pictures, or music, you want to go with a larger hard drive to avoid running out of space.A hard drive’s size has very little to do with its performance, unless the drive is almost full. The Windows NTFS File System requires a minimum of 10% of the hard drive to be free space for optimum performance, and it frequently requests as much as 15%. This means that, on a [...]
Flat Screen Monitors – Most Reliable
Alden Jerry asked: The flat screen monitors are utilised to watch television, videos and play games. They can be used on televisions and computers and have a very soothing effect. The user faces no eye-strain while working or viewing on these screens. These monitors are found in touchscreen formats too. These monitors have made watching videos and television programs a very good experience. The device can be fitted on any sort of monitors, be it televisions or computers. So, the experience is very enticing. Moreover, these touch sensitive screens are very portable and can easily be carried anywhere with ease.A unique flat screen utilises LCD or plasma technology for its functioning. The premium space utilised is better managed than a traditional CRT monitor. It is also sleek, thin, flat panel monitor and has emerged as a monitor of choice for people. Several monitors have USB ports that allow the users to get facilitated with digital photos that are shown in crisp, sharp and digital quality colours.The response time of these monitors are also reasonably less and that is the reason why it can be started with ease. The start-up time of these monitors is also less than ever before. Moreover, [...]
Methods of Industrial Computing
Richard n Williams asked: The requirements of an industrial PC are a lot different to that of the needs for an office computer. The needs of an industrial computer will also vary dramatically depending on the industry itself. Computers used in food manufacture may have to be waterproof and intrinsically sealed to prevent explosions in potentially explosive and dusty atmospheres whilst also being made of stainless steel or other easy to clean material; yet computers in heavy industry may have to also protect from dust and dirt but be able to withstand excessive temperatures, knocks and vibrations.Fortunately there are several options available for industrial computing.Protective Covers:If an industrial area is dusty but there are less of the other hazards that have been mentioned, then an inexpensive solution is to use a conventional office PC fitted with protective dust covers. Although not designed for environments with thick dust and grime, for areas with just a moderate dusty atmosphere they may add sufficient protection and can protect keyboards from dust and fluids, preventing sticky keys (and many an unintended typo). Waterproof /dustproof Keyboards and other peripherals (such as mouse) are also available. These covers and peripherals are only recommended to be used [...]
10 Most Common Reasons for Computer Failure in Business and Industry
Richard n Williams asked: Computers are performing more and more tasks in the office and workplace than they ever have before. Computers can conduct many tasks more efficiently than human workers but the more we rely on them the more vulnerable we find ourselves when the machines fail.Each year, companies have an average of 501 hours of computer downtime, costing them millions in annual productivity and revenue and according to a recent study; computer downtime is responsible for the loss of 3.6% of annual revenue. Which is almost has high as the revenue loss by employee absence (6 %)!The average life of an office PC is 3-4 years yet a computer’s life can be cut down to a fraction of that amount if the machine is expected to work in less than perfect conditions.Yet the majority of causes for a computer failure can be prevented by adhering to some simple steps:1. User errors – Any tool is only as good as the workman who uses it and computers are no different. Actions such as not powering down properly, skipping scan disks or continual button pushing while a computer is processing can damage a computer’s hardware, particularly drives and processors. Always [...]
Secured Backup Data Using External Usb Hard Drive
Shawn Paul asked: One hard disk drive is required at least by every computer system for the storage of OS, user information, programs and applications. Usually the hard drive is internal, but with the evolution of different requirements, threats and working conditions, the external hard disk drives have gain popularity and their sales are also increasing. The access to internet exposes the computer systems to threats that include spywares, viruses and Trojan horses. So even after the employment of antivirus and firewall programs, it is very much difficult to protect the computer systems from these threats. Besides the online threats, different members of family who are using the same computer system, put their critical data at higher risk of loss or unintentional corruption.More storage space is needed for the rapid increase in multimedia because of DVD burning, streaming video, picture files and MP3s as large storage space is required by them on hard disk drive. External USB hard drive is the solution to all these threats and requirements. The external drive remains outside the system with in its enclosure which is little bit larger in size and sometimes it also has a cooling fan. In this way the user can [...]
Decide on a Pc Monitor Before You Buy Your New Computer Equipment
puneet kr. chopra asked: Before you buy your new computer equipment you will want to decide on a PC monitor. After all you will be staring at it for the next few years! You will need to decide on the image quality, resolution, size, and type. You’re new should have enough screen space for what you will be doing. The viewable size is about an inch smaller that the advertised tube size on CRTs. The best size for most people is 17-19 inch. Either of these sizes should be plenty for most computer equipment needs. An LCD screen is the full size it says so it really takes up a lot less space than the CRT, inch for inch.Would A LCD or CRT PC Monitor Fit Your Style of Computer Equipment?Is an LCD PC monitor for you?For most computer users a 17 inch LCD is the optimal desktop pc monitor. A 15 inch is cheaper but will seem quite small if your current computer equipment as a 17 inch CRT. 17 inch will be most comfortable in size and price. The price is much higher when you get to an 18 to 19 inch PC monitor.Maybe a CRT PC monitor [...]
Pc Monitors: Enhance Your Viewing Experience With High Resolution Screens
Alden Jerry asked: Physical components are most important to consider while buying a personal computer. It is essential that a product you purchase should be of great quality. Buying products online would be a lot cheaper than buying the same from traditional markets. This is one of the reasons that the consumers are opting to purchase everything online. Discounted and cheap hardware is easy to search on the internet. Find great deals and get good value for your money while purchasing online.Finding a new PC monitor for your computer can be a difficult task. You would certainly want to make sure that you get the best value for your money. The screen is one of the important parts of your PC. The screen size gives you an idea of the viewing area you have on your monitor. Monitors are used in personal computers to display graphics, text and videos. Now a days, the most preferred displays are LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) monitors. In this display, one can see high quality images with high brightness and contrast levels.The consumer needs to keep many things in mind while purchasing a monitor like its size, resolution, warranty, etc. Determine what size of monitor [...]
Backup Your Hard Drive Online – 3 Simple Steps to Do it Toady
Dave Porter asked: Online Hard drive Backup, online backup services, backup software, hard drive crash, computer errorARTICLE CONTENT:It’s important whether you’re a business or a home computer user that all of your important photos, videos, documents, and information is backed up some where some how. It’s impossible to know when a computer crash can occur, and being prepared is the only defense you have against it when it happens.This article is going to explain 3 simple steps to follow when backing up a PC hard drive online. You can start and complete the entire process in about 10-15 minutes and just leave your computer to complete the backup on it’s own. So if you’re ready, I’m ready let’s get started.Step 1 – Choosing a Backup ProviderThe first step is choosing a service provider to be your online backup service. I suggest Carbonite, but you can also use Mozy home, or file sync services that also provide backup such as BeInSync.Which every service you provide most offer some form of free trial or free space arrangement to test the service before you have to pay. So you should be able to go and sign up for the service without having to [...]
Choosing the Perfect Computer Cases
Felix K asked: When you assemble a CPU, you will get a glimpse of how advanced we are in technology. There is a wide array of CPU components available; from simple and functional ones to premium components. When you compare these components to previous years’, this year can probably be described as the pinnacle of the Information Age. But of course, technology can only go forward and not backwards. So we can expect more technological advances despite the array of CPU components that are currently available. The wide array of CPU components will surely entice you to buy every single one of them. But components are not the first thing to consider in assembling a CPU, the computer case should be. Computer cases do not just determine how good the PC looks but determines the CPU components you can install and how these components will perform as well. There are varied types of computer cases. But basically, computer cases are classified according to: Size: Desktop vs. Tower. Desktop computer cases are flat and horizontal, and could easily fit under the monitor. Because of its small size, desktop computer cases is definitely the winner in space saving. On the other hand, the tower computer [...]
Laptop Batteries Explained
Alison White asked: The most common chemistries used in laptop batteries are:NiCad (Nickel Cadmium) – This is the oldest technology and is the least commonly used nowadays. NiCad batteries are prone to the “Memory effect” and are heavier than the newer technologies. NiCad is not environmentally friendly chemistry as it contains heavy metals, which cannot be disposed of in landfill sites. Most manufacturers have stopped producing batteries of this type chemistry. As an end user it will be increasingly difficult to source these batteries. The best alternative is external battery packs. This is an external battery, with run times of up-to 10hours and is compatible with most manufacturers.NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) – These batteries are less likely to be prone to the memory effect and have a much better power to weight ratio than NiCad. This is a commonly used chemistry. These batteries are also being phased out by most manufacturers. However, many have lithium-ion versions that are compatible. Always consult the manufacturer or a reputable laptop battery supplier.Li-Ion (Lithium Ion) – This is becoming the dominant technology due to its excellent power to weight ratio. Such considerations are becoming more important as mobile devices become smaller and lighter and [...]
Things to Consider When Buying Laptop Battery
Jason asked: Having a high-quality laptop battery and charger is one of the most important parts of having a personal laptop. Particularly if you propose to take benefit of the laptop’s portability; without a good laptop battery, your laptop would require to be plugged into the wall more often. Modern laptop batteries and charger tend to last three to five hours, it depends on the power require to computer and programs the user runs. Few things could be frustrating as when your laptop battery abruptly won’t charge fully or stops holding its charge for as long; when this happens, you would most likely need to purchase a good laptop battery.Today there are several varieties of laptop battery manufacturers, and especially retailers to purchase your laptop battery from. However, your chief concern in buying a laptop battery would be to select the battery that goes correct your laptop. For this you would further require to know the make and model number of your laptop; if you do now know this cavalier or don’t have the essential paperwork, check the inside of your laptop’s battery section when the computer is off and unplugged. There you may find your laptop’s model number, along [...]
Computer Security
davidtuffel asked: What is Computer Security?Computer Security is a branch of technology known as information security as applied to computers. Information security means protecting information and information systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. The objective of computer security varies and can include protection of information from theft or corruption, or the preservation of availability, as defined in the security policy.Technological and managerial procedures applied to computer systems to ensure the availability, integrity and confidentiality of information managed by the computer system Computer security imposes requirements on computers that are different from most system requirements because they often take the form of constraints on what computers are not supposed to do.Typical approaches to improving computer security can include the following:Physically limit access to computers to only those who will not compromise security. Hardware mechanisms that impose rules on computer programs, thus avoiding depending on computer programs for computer security. Operating system mechanisms that impose rules on programs to avoid trusting computer programs. Programming strategies to make computer programs dependable and resist subversion. Computer Security has three Layers:o Hackingo Crackingo Phreaking Hacking: Unauthorized use or attempts to circumvent or bypass the security mechanisms of an information system or network.Computer hacking [...]
Before you Shop for a Computer or Notebook, Understand Basic Computer Jargon
Victoria asked: CPU? RAM? Do you think they are just letters of the alphabet or something to do with computers? If you guessed they have something to do with a computer, you are correct. Not understanding what these basic computer terms can prevent you from making educated decisions on choosing a notebook or computer. Before you even think about shopping for a notebook or computer, you should understand the basic terms and lingo.What Is CPU?A CPU stands for central processing unit, which acts as the brain of the computer. It is important when you look at computers that you purchase one with a name brand CPU with high speed. When you look at CPU brands, you want one with a well known reputation that has been in the market for quite sometime. As for the speed of the CPU, CPU speed is measured in GHz. The higher the GHz the faster your computer will run.What Is RAM?RAM is the acronym for random access memory, which keeps computers running fast. The more RAM you have the faster your computer will run. RAM only works and functions when your computer is on because it stores temporary files and runs your programs, operating [...]
Hp Pavilion Dv9233eu Laptop Reviews
Eden Ali asked: Hp pavilion dv9233eu laptop reviews now features windows vista home premium, 1GB RAM, AMD Turion dual core processor, 120GB hard drive, 17″ widescreen display, and DVDRW.This laptop notebook’s enlarge image Zoom has a processor speed of 1.6 GHz, the hard drive storage is 17″ RAM of 120 GB, an operating system of 1024 MB, with windows vista home premium.Accessories specification detailsBrand: hewlett packard. This laptop notebook has a processor of AMD turion 64 x2 Dual Core, with a processor speed of 1.6 GHz. This laptop notebook also has a processor bus of 1600 MHz, and processor cache of 1 MB.The laptop notebook has a 1024 MB memory. It also a hard drive storage capacity of 120 GB. This laptop pc has a SATA storage facility. This laptop pc has a large screen of size 17″, with a bright widescreen type, but this laptop pc does not have a rotating screen feature. The hp pavilion dv9233eu laptop reviews also features a built-in wireless network, with also a wired network. This laptop pc also features a Gigabit local area connection network. Its optical drive also plays and records CDs and DVDs. A feature of Lightscribe technology is also included [...]
Hp Laptops – How They Change Computing
Roberta Groche asked: Hewlett-Packard Company has been in the industry of computing for more than half a century. Their first product was not a computer, but they are now dominating in the field. HP laptops are known for their durability and affordability. They have products from printers, photocopiers, computers, laptops, and other electronic gadgets. Anyone interested in buying cheap, but reliable laptops must consider checking HP laptops first.HP laptops are well engineered and tested to satisfy users whether new to mobile computing or a veteran. They have laptops that are developed in time with the latest technologies. From Wi-Fi connectivity down the rewriteable DVD’s, they have a place for that. Truly, these laptops are what we need in answer for our computing needs.The well known HP Compaq 6910p series is among the pride of HP. These laptops pave their way to the top leaving behind other laptops manufactured by well known companies including Dell and IBM. Customizable, upgradeable, and elegant are factors why most buyers were enticed to purchase these laptops.HP laptops are made out of products that are well known in the industry. The processors are manufactured by Intel, Corporation and are of the latest technology. Accessories and other [...]
Uses of Touch Screen Monitors
Richard n Williams asked: The touch screen monitor has been around almost as long as computers themselves. Invented in 1971 by Dr Samuel Hurst they have found a use in a wide variety of applications.The main advantage of a touch screen monitor is that it both acts as an input and output device. A single touch screen monitor can replace an existing CRT (cathode ray tube), plasma or LCD monitor and replace the keyboard and mouse too.Touch screen monitors work by a variety of different methods but the basic function of using a graphical user interface (GUI) that is sensitive to touch is fundamental to all approaches.Recognising a person’s touch is done by several methods, the most common being resistive, capacitive, infrared and acoustic wave.Different methods are used for the different functions that a touch screen may be required to fulfill. For instance, resistive touch screens work by using conductive and a resistive metallic layers between a sheet of normal glass. An electrical current runs through the two layers and when a user touches the screen, interference in the electrical field is caused and the computer then calculates the coordinates.Resistive touch screens are quite durable although they can be scratched [...]
Exclusive Touch Panel Pc for Harsh Industrial Environment
thompson asked: Corvalent has commenced innovative range of Industrial Computers that will balance company’s entire range of design solutions needs especially for harsh industrial environments. Its excellent performance matches with the specific needs of Class I & II, Division 2 hazardous locations. Each TFT flat panel pc has its own significance to stand in the market as it offer absolute performance, flexibility and shorter span of time to reach. The further outcomes of these pc’s are below:High performanceThe entire flat panel PCs provides excellent support to hazardous locations. The VISIO15 ‘15″ color TFT flat panel monitor’, VISIO17 ‘17″ color TFT flat panel monitor’, VISIO19TM ‘19″ color TFT flat panel monitor’ designed while keeping in mind harsh industrial environments. These touch screen monitors are fully compatible for Class I and II division as it is housed in a heavy duty steel chassis with a powder coated machined aluminum bezel. Their high performance becomes the suitable answers for preparing major web-based presentations or information terminals.Greater flexibilityThe 5-wire analog resistive touch screen monitors offer high levels of accuracy and durability as they have RS-232 and USB interface capability. Its certified touch panel pc is UL/CUL listed with NEMA 4/4X/12 standards and RoHs compliant. [...]
