Tec Papers

I just bought a new PC for my room. It is using a wireless adapter, not a cable. I also have an old computer in my basement, which hold all my school work. I want to send my school work to my new computer, but I don’t have a USB flash drive. Is there a way to share files with other computers at home? Old computer is using windows vista, and the new one is using windows 7.

You should check out Office Live Workspace. It’s a cloud storage system that lets you upload, share, and edit your documents virtually, so you can access your documents anywhere as long as you have an internet connection. And, you get 5GB of storage for free.

Here is an article explaining some of the great features in Office Live Workspace: http://ask.officelive.com/workspace/blogs/workspace_team/archive/2009/10/09/top-5-reasons-you-should-be-using-office-live-workspace.aspx

Cheers,
KIM
MSFT Office Live Outreach Team

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We are trying to connect two computers with the same internet connection but it is not working. We have tried with a youtube tutorial and help from our mom’s friend. Does anyone know how to help us? We have a compaq computer desktop (not sure of the year) and a 2002 desktop computer. If anyone knows how to help please help. Thanks!

IF you have internet from a cable company you already have a "router" you can just use a Cat5 (internet) cable and plug in…IF you only have one internet connector on your router get this..http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833127083.
you simply plug your internet cable from the router to this, then get two cables and put them to this and the two computers. you will have two slots extra for expansion…OR..if you have a "network" printer, you could connect it to the switch so both computers can use the one printer.

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In the past, I’ve plugged in my ipod on the primary computer and another computer in my house. Both had itunes installed. However, whenever I plugged my ipod into the second computer, the files were erased off my ipod. Therefore, I had to plug it into the primary computer to retrieve the files again.

So, how can I save the same files on both computers without running the risk of deleted files?

I think you’d need to have identical library files– you could try transfering them (the audio and library file) to the SAME folder on your other computer via internet/ LAN line.

I’ve never tried this– but it seems like the logical procedure.

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I’ve been to several local tips and seen loads of computers and laptops being thrown away. I was wondering what happens to these and whether I’d be able to ask to take them. Several of the computers I’ve seen have been like Mac-book Airs, Dell Alienwares and some touch screen all-in-ones. I know they probably are broken but I could put the parts to good use. Do you know if it’s allowed or would I have to pay?

You Have not stated who your hoping to get them off.

Your best bet would probably be just to ask them

They may Differ from place to place so just ask them all.
(Some may say no, Others may give you them for a fee)

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The Personal Data Assistant (PDA) has won rapid acceptance among university students and executives who are constantly on the move because of its ability to package a lot of different data requirements into a palm sized device. The PDA is designed to make a busy life easier by providing sensible connections to all the information you need, have it at your fingertips when you need it, and transport it to other systems. Once ‘organised’ with your PDA, you will have all of your contact phone numbers, be collecting your emails, process your business orders, display your photographs and relax to your mp3 library. Many PDAs also act as a digital recorder and have windows based compatibility for word processing and spreadsheet financial calculations.

PDAs At the simplest end of the market, a PDA can help you manage your daily to-do lists, keep track of your diary and record your memos. But it’s important for people moving into using a PDA to understand that it is a tool that is most beneficial to an already organised mind: it won’t actually do the organising for you. But if you find you need to view and manage documents on the go, keep track of your appointments and have instant access to your name and address book, then the basic functions of a PDA will probably enhance your productivity. And of course the added bonuses of listening to your mp3s, watching short video clips, reading ebooks and being able to rehearse and review your presentations can only help.

PDAs with the Windows Pocket PC operating system and gutsy memory are compatible with your normal windows and office environments. Screen size and image resolution can be critical if you intend to use the device for reading books and managing text-heavy documents. While sales of PDAs have steadily declined over the past two years, losing to smartphone technology, the main manufacturers have advanced the usability of PDA devices with faster processors, increases in memory and multimedia capability. In many situations, smartphones have been able to replace many functions of the PDA, combining data management with mobile phone technology. But if you want to work with spreadsheets and web pages on your PDA, smartphones are at a disadvantage from smaller screen sizes and data storage capability and sometimes cost, but they obviate the need to carry two devices.

What to look for

There’s a hand-held PDA device to suit practically every budget and need. You need to consider just how much data you want to carry with you and how connected you want to be. Obviously more memory, faster processor and bigger screen attract higher price tags. You can compare brands, models and prices by searching Myshopping.com.au using the following specifications to guide you.

A budget basic unit might offer a processor speed of 16 MHz, 8MB of memory and at 2.5 inch (diagonal) screen. At the high end, you can get a 4GB micro hard drive, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, 400 MHz processor, 256MB memory, with expansion slots, 4 inch (diagonal) LCD screen with 65,000 colours and 640×480 display resolution, GPS functionality, MP3 player, digital camera and instant messaging. In the middle of the range you will find devices with 64MB of memory, a 200 MHz processor, 3 inch screen and built-in microphone or audio input jack. Bear in mind that all of these specifications and functionalities change continuously, and devices are upgraded with new features over very short spaces of time.

Apart from processor speed, memory and screen size, some of the critical specifications that you can use for cost and brand comparisons include:

Data input – While some models have a full QWERTY keyboard built-in, you may want to consider adding a fold-up full-size external keyboard. Entering lots of text with the small built-in keypads or using the handwriting software can be frustrating.

Audio input – A built-in microphone or microphone jack is needed for recording voice memos and meeting notes and store audio files.

Music playback – MP3 audio file playback can sometimes need additional software.

GPS – While there are a number of purpose-built hand-held devices for industrial applications, your PDA’s GPS capability may not be suitable for rugged outdoor activities.

Communication – Look for integrated Bluetooth 1.1 and a built-in 802.11b Wi-Fi adapter

Smartphone – Combines the functions of a mobile phone with a data management device in a single unit. Phone capability requires a separately purchased service contract

Audio Output – A headphone jack is essential for listening to your audio files

Cradle/Charger – This device allows for easy connection and synchronization with your PC while simultaneously recharging your battery. Consider buying an additional cradle for the office for maximum convenience. Some PDAs include a cable or a special cradle that provides an interface with your desktop computer to synchronize data.

Battery life – Each device will have its own battery-life characteristics. Battery recharge life is also dependant upon the data you are processing. You can use manufacturer’s specifications as a guide to compare between brands and models, but these specifications are laboratory measurements and may not reflect your actual use.

Bluetooth – This wireless technology lets you to exchange data with other handheld devices or any other Bluetooth enabled device such as a cell phone, fax machine, personal computer, laptop computer, headset or printer. The Bluetooth feature will allow you to add an external keyboard.

Digital camera – PDA cameras usually capture low resolution images (around 1.2 megapixels), which are perfect for emailing but not ideal for printing.

GPS – Global positioning system allows you to navigate from any point on or near the surface of the earth.

Music/Audio – The MP3 playback quality will depend on the bit rate of the audio file and the quality of the built-in speaker. The audio quality is often better when played back through a quality headset.

PDA Screen – PDA screen sizes are measured in inches diagonally and are available from 2.6 inches up to 5 inches on the very high-end. Larger, brighter screens require more power to operate therefore increase battery consumption.

Processor speed – refers to the speed in which a PDA coordinates its internal functions. Processor speeds are measured in MHz (megahertz) and range between 4 MHz and 624 MHz. Although these specifications can change rapidly as technology develops, it is recommended to have a processor speed of at least 16 MHz for general day-to-day functions.

Video capture – Video playback often requires an additional expansion card and a third-party software download, and higher memory capability.

Web Browser – Used with a Wi-Fi connection, lets you browse the internet as you would from a desktop computer.

Wi-Fi – Integrated 802.11b WLAN (wireless local area network), enables you to connect to the internet in any hot spot. Enabling the Wi-Fi features tends to consume battery life quickly.

In summary

You may like to consider whether you are a novice (that is, new to PDA technology), an entrepreneur or a technophile, and make your search based on your level of understanding of the technology involved. As a novice, you will be searching for a basic unit, as a technophile you will be looking for all the bells and whistles. An entrepreneur will be searching for the most adaptable capabilities. The following might assist.

Choose amongst functionalities. Consider you need for mp3 players, or video players, or web browsing. Doubling the functionality of your PDA may reduce the need to have to carry another device around in order to enjoy the benefits offered.

How much internet access do you need? Bluetooth connectivity can give you mobile phone enabled internet access, Wife can give you access from hot spots, and simple cable connection to your desktop computer can let you read your emails on the road.

Go for maximum memory for money. Memory determines how much data your PDA can process and store, and its ability to handle applications. Memory can be boosted in many devices using expansion slots and flash memory cards.

Search Myshopping.com.au to compare models and brands, and vendors and prices.

Andrew Gates
http://www.articlesbase.com/electronics-articles/pda-handheld-computers-buying-guide-52204.html

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We have 4 computers in our house. Three are currently wireless, one hardwired. We have one printer that is connected with wires to one of the wireless computers. Right now, we can only print using that one computer. So if we are working on one of the other computers, we have to save the file and email it to ourselves and go open it on the "printing" computer. How can I print from the other three computers? Is there a way to link it all now or do I need to go buy some more equipment for the printer? Or do only certain printers have these capabilities?

You need a network printer server. You plug your printer into this little box and plug it into your wireless router. No longer plug printer into any of your computers. Leave the printer, printer server, and router on all the time. You can turn off the computers. Printer’s always available. Some printers already have this ability built-in, and are usually labelled as "network ready", or something like that; they’ll have an ethernet jack on the back if they are. Anyway, Linksys makes these little items, inexpensive too. If the following link doesn’t work for some reason, the device is the Linksys WPS54G.

http://www.linksys.com/servlet/Satellite?c=L_Product_C2&childpagename=US%2FLayout&cid=1114037289494&pagename=Linksys%2FCommon%2FVisitorWrapper

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Last October 2 marked 170 years of Charles Darwin’s return to England after five years spent around the world collecting knowledge about flora, fauna, wildlife and genealogy. The information he gathered would form the basis of his Theory Of Evolution. Interestingly on the same day in 1985, actor Rock Hudson would die from the AIDS virus. 149 years separated two very contrasting albeit controversial events—one delving into the very origin of life while the other, a death resulting from a threat with no known cure.

1985 also saw the emergence of another kind of virus—the first computer virus. More than twenty years later, computer viruses have morphed from a laboratory test into organized crime’s new weapon of choice.

There was a time when viruses were no more than the fruits of idle hands. Some might even describe them as nothing more than hijinks by programmers out to make names for themselves. Even the naming of the viruses reflected a level of triviality, some were named for particular computer hardware brands, some for the virus programmer’s girlfriend, one was a homage to a female tennis player known better for her curves than her on-court ability, and who could ever forget the disarming “I Love You” virus? It was indeed a nuisance for users when they find out that their computer system was infected. But with a little foresight and the right tools, it was a problem that could be handled. The cost for the home user was time wasted, but in a business environment, time wasted meant money lost.

Times have indeed changed. On October 3, an article appeared on the Techweb site describing how “toolkits” are now openly available to anyone wishing to set up a website with the intent of stealing their visitors’ personal information. Toolkits, as the term itself suggests, are a package of codes that even those with little programming skills can use in setting up a rogue website. These rogue websites are programmed to secretly install codes to their visitor’s browser. These codes take advantage of unpatched computers—those that do not have security updates. The installed code can then send information to the criminal about what the visitor is typing, for example their credit card number or bank account number. Depending on what kind of attack is launched on your computer, it could even be turned into a “zombie” computer—completely under the attacker’s command.

“How do I protect myself?” you ask. Well, with a little foresight and the right tools naturally. And this applies especially to users of Microsoft Windows since it is the preferred operating system of cyber criminals because of its many weaknesses. Make sure your computer is up to date with their security patches. Install anti virus software, an entire suite (which includes anti spyware, firewall, spam blocker, etc.) if possible and see to it they are also up to date. Avoid going to “black market” websites—these include sites offer downloads of pirated software, pornography and the like.

Twenty-one years of infecting personal computers and annoying the users, yes indeed, computer viruses have come of age. But guess what? They have not even reached their prime.

F. Aldo
http://www.articlesbase.com/security-articles/from-womb-to-your-personal-computers-doom-61120.html

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I have been wanting to study everything I CAN for studying computers and now all the basic stuff to computers.

I wants a method like how computers work, all the hardware and software that make the computer, how they work, all the books I need to study for this. Is there any good series of books that I could use? I want something that gets extremely into the detail like college grade books.

This info Im taking in is going to be used for future careers and maybe even starting my own business if I play my cards right.

The best way, at least the way I think, is to learn hardware first. A good place to start could be HowStuffWorks.com and check out their computer section. It’s a bit dated as new advances have been made since then, but it’s a good place to start and learn the basics. The motherboard is the biggest component in any computer, as all other hardware connects directly to it one way or another. Of course, I would suggest reading up a good deal about the motherboard first (sometimes called MoBo for short) since all other aspects of the hardware will reference, in one way or another, the motherboard. Once you’re comfortable with that, move on to the individual components that work with the motherboard, such as the CPU, RAM, hard drives, CD/DVD drives, and so on.
Each component is crucial for a computer to function correctly. The more you learn, the better able you will be at choosing components for a computer as well as understanding how those components interact with each other. One day, you’ll be able to buy all the components separately and build your very own computer with the exact specs and functionality you want out of it. Not to mention, you won’t have to deal with propitiatory parts from companies like Dell and you’ll be better able to diagnose hardware problems, since you’ll know what you have in there and not have to guess. Then comes software, which uses the hardware to function.
Learning the basics of computer hardware and software is not a hard feat, it just takes time to learn and understand how it all comes together. There is so much to learn but starting off basic is a great way to build a solid foundation in which to build and increase your knowledge and understanding. The more technical you want to get, the more you’ll have to study. You may want to buy a book for more technical realms as they tend to be more cohesive and understandable than stuff you’ll find on the web. I know much about computers, but it would be insane to think that I know everything. I learned by studying and making mistakes on my own. But it wasn’t long after I learned hardware components that I was able to build my very own PC. Keep positive and focus and you too will one day be able to understand computers.

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Your graphics card is responsible for sending data to the monitor to display pictures,presentations,and videos that you love so much.That being the case,it would be a great benefit to you if you get and keep your graphics card up to date.

We all love to play those in depth,high resolution games and this is the main reason we either upgrade our graphics card or purchase a new computer altogether. And when we can use all of the cool features these games provide,they are an absolute blast.

If your graphics card seems slow you may want to update your current card by visiting its support web site and look for any patches or new device drivers.

Take the time to download and install these files and you should see a big leap in the performance of your graphics card. As you download the files,don’t forget where you saved them.

If your computer is getting old,keep in mind that older systems are equipped with slower processors.So if you have a 500 MHz CPU Chip you should consider upgrading the entire system rather than just the graphics card.

For the last several years there have been only two graohics card competitors designing gaming cards. The ATI and the Nvidia manufacturers should be considered when it comes to new card purchases.

How To Know Your Graphics Card

The first thing you should know is the name of the graphics card in your system unit.To determine your card by clicking on Start, Control Panel, and choosing Appearance and Themes.

Next choose Display and click on the settings tab. You should see the name of your graphics card. Visit your card’s web support site to see how old your card is and capabilities.Now you can decide how you want to upgrade.

After understanding your old card’s features and knowing its name,you’re now ready to decide how much you want to invest in a new card.You should update your graphics card even if your system is new.

Why you ask? New or not,if the graphics card is integrated on the motherboard,its performance is being handled by low end technology.

Some of the better graphic cards you should upgrade to would be the ATI or the Axxxxxxx Txxxxxxx Ixxxxxxx Radeon X800 or Nvidia’s GeForce FX 6800 chips.

Before installing your new card,delete any software and the old device driver for the old card.To remove this file,click on Start, Control Panel, click on Add and Remove programs.Now look for any references to your graphics card.

Look for such phrases as display drivers.You can remove them by selecting them and clicking on the Change/Remove button.

If your old graphics card was on the motherboard, you must disable it before you install your new card. To disable the integrated graphics,access your BIOS and look for referances to Onboard or Integrated devices.

Find the entry for graphics or display device and change the setting to disable or off.After this you save the changes and exit.

Now you can remove the old card if its in an empty adapter slot and install your new card.Read our article named How To Install A Graphics Card to learn this procedure step by step.

Newer graphics cards are designed for use with both CRT or Cathode Ray Tube and the LCD or the Liquid Crystal Display monitors.

Otis Cooper
http://www.articlesbase.com/electronics-articles/how-to-upgrade-your-computers-graphics-card-50525.html

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I have three computers using Windows 7 Home premium. Two of the computers are connected through wireless N adapters connected to a D Link DIR 655. These two have no problem seeing each other and connected to the one that is connected through Ethernet. The problem is the one that I connected through ethernet won’t connect to the other two. I can ping the other two and get results back but when I go to the network to actually view the shared files, I get an error.

panel>>network<<devices

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