August 04, 2008 at 01:23 AM by admin
Leave It On Or Turn It Off?
One of the oldest unresolved controversies in the computer world is: Should you leave your computer on all the time, or turn it off when it is not in use?
Compelling arguments have been made on both sides. I’ll try to sum up the important points on either side, and I’ll even give you my recommendation, but ultimately, it’s up to you.
LEAVE IT ON:
Constantly warming up and cooling down is bad for electronic equipment, and the computer experiences some mechanical wear and tear every time you turn it on and off.
There’s also the issue of convenience. It’s much easier to plop down and go to work when you want to, rather than having to wait several minutes for the computer to turn on and boot up.
TURN IT OFF:
The hard drive may last longer. Since it is composed of moving parts, it stands to reason, the less they move, the longer it will last. This may not be much of an issue with newer computers. The hard drive will probably last longer than the useful life of the computer, regardless.
If the computer is on all the time, it will suck more dust through the ventilation vents. More dust = more heat = shorter life span for the computer, so it may be worthwhile to turn it off when not in use.
All computers can benefit from the occasional reboot, and turning them off allows this to happen. Over time, minor things go wrong and the computer doesn’t bother to inform you; it tries to patch itself up and moves on. The cumulative affect of all these little hiccups can be to reduce performance or even cause the computer to freeze or crash. Turning the computer off now and then gives it a chance to reset itself and start fresh.
Turning the computer off when idle uses less electricity. Depending on your computer, it may use as much electricity as one or more 100 watt light bulbs. That can add up to quite a few dollars over the lifetime of the computer. Also, less electricity expended means less carbon emissions, which is better for the environment, reduces global warming, etc. etc. etc.
ON THE SUBJECT OF ELECTRICITY: While we’re talking about electricity, there are settings on all computers that we can adjust to save power right now.
If you have a PC running XP, right-click on the desktop, and choose â€
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August 02, 2008 at 01:33 AM by admin
Wireless Computer Speakers- Choosing the Best
Enjoy music from every corner of your home with wireless computer speakers, which use wireless technology to produce sound output. They can be set up anywhere in your home or office since they do not require cables. Wireless speakers are usually made up of several speakers, each with its own positioning specifications.
Different kinds of wireless speakers
Wireless computer speakers come many different types. Here are three of the most common.
The 7.1 wireless computer speaker system has six two-way satellite speakers, one two-way center satellite speaker, and one sub woofer. Good brands produce excellent sound output and are perfect for a variety of functions. Whether for playing games, listening to music, or watching movies, the 7.1 version is perfect. Meanwhile, the 5.1 wireless computer speaker system has four two-way satellite speakers, one two-way center satellite speaker, and one sub woofer. It is great for mid-level applications.
Finally, the 2.1 wireless computer speaker system consists of a pair of satellite speakers and a two-way center satellite. It is ideal for computer games, but not for listening to music or watching movies.
How to choose a wireless speaker
When looking for good quality wireless computer speakers, it is best to first check for compatibility. Make sure that your computer and operating system supports wireless functions
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July 31, 2008 at 01:22 AM by admin
Getting The Most From Your Internet Camera
Let the world of technology envelope you. This is the modern path to enlightenment. Okay, so maybe that is a little extreme. I do not want to come across like one of those religious fanatics or anything. However, I do believe in the power of convenience and accessibility. By this I basically mean computers and cellular telephones. These two tools have made life as we once knew it so much easier. Our children will not even know or fully understand how things used to be. Take Internet cameras for instance. These can be beneficial in so many ways. Whether you are chatting online with family and friends, conducting a board meeting for work, or simply monitoring your home while you are away, the advancing technology has come through again.
I like to keep an eye on things. However, one cannot do this at all hours of the day. Since most of us have careers and priorities that lie away from the home, it’s nearly impossible. Until now! With the almighty Internet cameras, you can do whatever you please. A number of home owners are setting up top-notch security systems and retaining full access to them even at work, or on vacation. It’s all about the Internet and wireless connection. You can rig Internet cameras so that your home can be watched all day long. Talk about serious security! This takes surveillance to the next level. So far I have only witnessed high tech Internet cameras on my brother’s laptop. He is a recent home buyer, but travels a lot. Therefore he prefers to have a watchful eye on his property while he’s away. He can now pop open his laptop and take a gander at the interior and exterior of his home in real time. This is the ultimate way to ensure yourself that all is secure on the home-front.
Now it’s my turn. I can’t wait to get my security system and Internet cameras rigged through my Mac. This way I can tote that light-weight notebook where ever I go, and keep an eye on my home in the process. This new-age technology is especially handy for those who work in an office all day long. Prop your laptop next to you and view the Internet cameras as much as you like. Today it’s all about access and convenience.
Ralph Jarvis runs his own mail order business as well as running several shopping based websites. His particular speciality is electronics and computers. Visit his website which is full of Computer Accessories resources.
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