Computerworld - News, Education & Headlines

Writen by Damien Oh
No matter how good your system is, there’ll sure be a time when you face the slow pc performance syndrome. This is a universal problem every user sure to bounce into.

So when do you consider your PC slow? When you discover that the booting up time is more than the usual loading time, there is frequent hanging of PC, taking load of time to start an application or sluggish game play.

What is the cause for this? Well, it can be due to the hardware or software issue.

A lack of memory RAM is often the main cause for hardware issue. As technology advances, more and more software with heavy bandwidth are being developed. An old system with only 64MB of memory RAM will surely pants when running these heavy duty programs. Check out your motherboard maximum memory support and upgrade the RAM to the maximum. This will see an improvement. If your memory RAM is already at its maximum, then maybe it is time to change the motherboard.

Other than the RAM, the CPU is also another culprit for the slow performance. Similar to the RAM, an old CPU will not be sufficient to support new and complex applications. It might be easy to think that changing the CPU will help; however, changing CPU is not as easy as changing ram. Most of the time, the old motherboard will not be able to support the latest CPU in the market. If you are seriously considering changing the CPU, then it might be better to upgrade the whole system.

The data storage on the hard drive is based on sector allocation. Over the time, due to frequent installation and un-installation of programs, the data sectors will be scattered all around in the hard drive, making data retrieval difficult. This in turn adds up to the loading time. The hard drive fragmentation percentage refers to the percentage of the scattering of the data sector. The higher the percentage, the slower the performance. Performance can be improved by doing a defragmentation. This will arrange the sector cluster in retrieving order and also move seldom used or unused data to a remote sector.

Running of background processes and programs will also slow down the pc performance. Most of the time, these background activities occur without your knowledge and it is always the main cause for PC hanging. To eliminate this, press Control + Alternate + Delete to access the Window Task Manager. Click on the PROCESSES tab. This window will slow all the background processes. Select the application that you don’t need and click ‘End Process’. Do this with care as shutting down of important application will cause your PC to hang and all your unsaved data to be lost. Next, the right bottom panel of the window task bar shows the program running in the background. Right click on the icon and shut down the unused programs to free up the bandwidth.

With these few tips, it will be sufficient to improve your PC performance. If the above technique don’t works, then you might have to consider reformatting your pc or upgrade to a new system.

Writen by Michael Colucci
There are two primary methods that are used to copy DVDs, and these are DVD Duplication and DVD Replication. With the replication method, the disc will be compressed via a glass master, and the image will be printed on the surface of the disc. This will produce an effect that is similar to what you would find in DVDs that are purchased in stores. With the duplication method, the disc will be burned from the original DVD onto a blank DVD. The images from the original DVD may be printed and added to the surface of the new DVD.

If you have the time and money to order a large package of blank DVDs, it is important to make sure you use DVD duplication or replication. There are a large number of companies available that can make professional copies of DVDs. If you use the services that are offered by these companies, it is important for you to make sure they use the “compare and verify” function when they are in the process of burning your discs. A lot of these companies will turn off this feature so they can speed up the time it takes for them to complete the order, but making sure the “compare and verify” function is turned on will insure that you discs are correctly duplicated.

While there are companies available that can mass copy DVDs for you within a short period of time, purchasing your own equipment can allow you to make copies of DVDs. The basic thing you will need is a computer with a DVD burner. A lot of computers now come with DVD burners, and some of them may be able to burn both CDs and DVDs. If you don’t already have one in your computer, it can be purchased from your local electronics store. In most cases, internal DVD burners are cheaper than external burners. Make sure your computer meets the system requirements for the DVD burner you are purchasing. Once you have the burner, you will now need to acquire the software.

Some of the most popular DVD burning software are Nero, Alcohol 120%, and Disc Juggler. Another popular program is DVD 2 Copy. Virtually all of these programs can be acquired online or at your local electronics store. If you use a professional company, it is important to compare them with other companies that offer the same service. A good company should test your DVD copies on a large number of different DVD players to make sure they are compatible. In addition to the playback, it is important to make sure your discs have a professional look. If you have a large order, it will take a good company about 4 to 5 days to complete it. However, if you are in a rush, some companies can complete the order in as little as 2 days.

When it comes to disc storage, you will often be given the option of “mini” or “full size.” Full size will give you the maximum amount of space per disc, which is about 8.4 gigabytes. The mini size will give you about 1.47 gigabytes of space per disc. The size that you choose is dependent on your needs.

Writen by Jestine Yong
EEPROM stands for Electrical Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory and also referred to as EฒPROM. As the name suggest, an EEPROM can be both erased and programmed with electrical pulses. Since it can be both electrically written into and electrically erased, the EEPROM can be rapidly programmed and erased in circuit for reprogramming without removing them from the circuit board.

EEPROM is also called a non-volatile memory because when power is turned off the stored data in the EEPROM will not be erased or intact. New EEPROM have no data in it and usually have to program with a programmer before it can be use. Information stored in this type of memory can be retained for many years without a steady power supply.

What is the function of EEPROM?
EEPROMs are used to store user programmable information such as: -

• VCR programming information

• CD programming information

• Digital satellite receiver control data

• User information on various consumer products

EEPROM in monitor performs two functions:

• When a monitor is switch on it will copies all data or information from the EEPROM to the microprocessor. For example, the EEPROM will let the microprocessor know the frequencies at which the monitor is going to operate.

• The EEPROM is used to store the current settings of the monitor. The settings of the monitor will not be erased even when the monitor is turned off. Anytime a change is made in the monitor settings, the microprocessor updates the setting in the EEPROM. When the monitor is turn on again, the stored settings are used to set up the monitor for operation.

What are the symptoms if the MONITOR or TV’s EEPROM data is corrupted or damaged?

• No high voltage (no display).

• Horizontal or vertical frequencies run.

• Cannot save (store) current setting.

• Certain control functions like sound, brightness and contrast control does not functioning.

• On Screen Display (OSD) does not function or the OSD have a corrupted display.

• High voltage shut down (EEPROM set the horizontal frequency way too low or twice the line frequency perhaps leading to failure of the horizontal output transistor (HOT)).

What is an EEPROM programmer or copier?

EEPROM seldom fail, they just lose or have their memory (data) corrupted may be due to high voltage and static discharge from a monitor. Once reprogrammed they are as good as new. As mentioned earlier, new EEPROMs are blank and need information or data to be loaded in order for it to functions. The job of copying the data into an EEPROM is done by a programmer or a copier. Programmers comes in all shapes and sizes. You can copy these devices for repair replacement only. You cannot copy them for resale without a letter of approved from the vendor who produced them. There is quite a number of companies selling EEPROM programmer:

Typical EEPROM part no:

24C02, 24C04, 24C08 etc

24C325, 24C645AT17C65, AT17C128 etc

93C06, 93C46, 93C56, 93C66 etc

25010, 25020, 25040 etc

Jestine Yong is a electronic repairer and writer. For more information about electronic repair please visit his website at http://www.noahtec.com

Writen by Peter Gursky
With the Internet and computer technology developing every single day, you might want to give your old computer a long break it badly needs. Computer has gone a long way from being just a mere typing machine.

If you want to know whether you need to box-up your old computer or buy a new one, here’s a quick checklist:

Operating system

Run only in Windows 95/98 (or older operating systems!)
Old operating systems won’t allow you to add on scanners, printers, or dig cams. It also won’t allow you to run newer programs.

Updated RAM

If your computer takes forever to load up, chances you need to add more RAM. Some old RAM chips might not be available in the market anymore and they don’t come cheap too.

Small hard disk space

Isn’t it frustrating when you come to the point that you have to delete older files to make space for your new ones? This clearly states that you badly need a new hard disk. The market now offers as much as 500 GB for personal computers.

Software doesn’t run

If new software doesn’t work on your computer, then it is no longer compatible with new programs in the market, and you absolutely need to change your system.

Slow processors

If you are doing some graphic works on your computer, then it suddenly bogs down, then you are in trouble. Older computers don’t even come close to opening website with large graphics.

If you find yourself in the above situation, then it’s high-time that you buy a new computer. Below are some quick tips that can do you a lot of help:

Tips in Buying Computers

The first thing you need to ask when buying a computer is “what would it be used for?” If you just need to type up writing assignments or do some office works, then a computer with a decent word processing program would go.

If you were using the Internet often, then you would need a computer with 128 MB of memory and at least Pentium-2 processor.

If you do some graphics, edit pictures or create videos, aside from higher RAM and larger space, you need a good video card to view your work as actual as it can be. Also check the compatibility of other devices like scanners and printers to your computer.

If you are decided to buy a new computer, then allot at least $500 of your budget. If you want a high-end computer then it definitely costs a lot more than that. Don’t think that you get the best deals when you buy a computer on a cheap price. Always go for quality, it’s a total headache if your computer acts up in the middle of your work.

When buying a new computer, think properly what you need before heading to a computer shop. It is also a good thing to have a chit-chat with a computer salesperson. Ask them all the things you want to know. With enough patience, the right computer for you is just one decision away. For more info you may want to visit htt://www.baytradecomputers.com

Peter Gursky is Internet marketing expert who writes for various companies including BayTradeComputers.com (discounted computers and networking). Find out low priced computers and networking at http://www.BayTradeComputers.com

Writen by M Johnson
Once you purchase a computer usually you are stuck with it for a few years. The problem is that it is outdated almost as fast as you can get it home and set it up. Many new software applications immerse, companies constantly update and come out with new technology at the speed of light. This leaves you in the dust after about six to eight months after you buy your computer.

Now there is a great alternative to buying a new computer every year or so. New computer parts and hardware are up to date and have a really cheap price. Imagine getting a whole up to date advanced computer without spending all that extra money! It is possible.

Most computer manufacturers build a computer as cheap as they can. They add hardware and parts that are of minimum standard. Big name companies like IBM, Dell, HP are all guilty of this. They need to complete a system with the least amount of cost as possible to stay competitive in a global market. Sure, they will operate and function, but not for long. Soon the outdated equipment will seem slow, will not run current applications and can be one big headache.

Fortunately for you there is a solution. Replace worn out hardware with new and upgraded parts and your computer will work like new! Hard drives, computer monitor, motherboard, a new processor, a new keyboard are all examples of great hardware that will make your old computer drive like a new Cadillac.

You can expect faster processing speeds with a new hard drive or motherboard and processor, get a bigger and brighter view with flat panel monitors, an upgraded keyboard can even add more convenience with added buttons for internet exploring and media play. As you can see adding new computer hardware and parts are a cheap alternative to buying the entire system.

Here is another reason buying computer hardware is a great idea: the quality is much higher than the manufacturers minimum standards. This means the parts will perform better and longer than the original parts. Now that is an awesome feature. Much like replacing automobile parts. The aftermarket parts are built to a higher standard and therefore perform better.

Wether you need speakers, a keyboard, a new motherboard, or any number of parts and hardware your computer can always use a new look and feel. You owe it to yourself to save a lot of headaches and stay ahead of the game with new upgraded computer hardware and parts.

Replacing old hardware is really easy too. Simply plug and play is the most common application for updating any system. With Windows XP or 2000 it is basically self explanatory. Just take out the old, put in the new and turn the computer back on. That is it! The computer program will do the rest. There is no reason to fear computers anymore because they are getting easier and more user friendly everyday. Get your new hardware and see the difference it makes immediately.

Writen by Nathan Kartchner
In today’s multitasking computing world, it’s not unusual to see people constantly switching from window to window trying to transfer data form one program to the other. I myself have gotten fairly adept at the Alt-Tab window-switching hotkey sequence. It is as a result of this that the popularity of multi-monitor computer setups has increased dramatically. Studies have shown a significant increase in employee productivity when a multiple monitor setup is used. There is less mental stress, less time spent on switching programs, and less eye strain. So how can you get multiple monitors? You have several different options.

Your first and probably most common option for a desktop system is to buy a multi-port video card. These cards generally have a DVI and a VGA port, both of which can be hooked to any monitor with the use of adapters. These cards can either be PCI, PCI-Express, or AGP-compatible. Generally speaking, the drivers for multi-monitor support come with the card.

Another desktop option is to buy multiple video cards and put them in your system. As far as we can tell, this only works so long as the chipsets are the same and each card uses a different type of slot (i.e., an ATi PCI card and an ATi AGP card.) Conceivably you could use two two-port cards, giving you a total of four monitors. This is a good way to go if you want to go to the trouble of matching everything up.

These solutions are all well and good for the desktop user, you say, but what about my laptop? Well, don’t worry, there are options for notebooks as well. Probably your best option is to spring for the VTBook DVI/VGA Dual Display Video PCMCIA Card. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s the only card like it on the market. The VTBook gives you an additional DVI-out port on your computer, which can be plugged into a high-def display. If you crave even more monitor madness, you can buy a VTBook Dualhead Cable, which splits the out port, giving you yet another monitor. With this setup, you could have up to four monitors (your laptop screen, the laptop out port, and the two VTBook ports).

The last, and probably most expensive method to add multiple monitors to your laptop is to buy a PCMCIA to PCI card. Realistically, this $1000-plus item is for more specialty PCI cards that aren’t available in PCMCIA version, but if you have an amazing and absolutely necessary PCI or PCI Express video card that you want to use with your laptop, this is the solution for you. As far as I can tell, I have only found one such adapter, made by Magma.

I’m sure that somewhere there is some engineer dreaming up other ways to add multiple monitors to computers, but for now, these are the most common and most feasible options I know of. Now go to, and enjoy the greater productivity of multiple monitors.

Nathan Kartchner works in Product Development for Sewell Direct, an online retailer of hard-to-find computer connectivity products like the VTBook DVI/VGA Dual Display Video PCMCIA Card, the Magma PCMCIA to PCI cardbus, and the USB to Serial Adapter.

Writen by Eric Meyer
Wireless access points can function in three different types of modes: root, repeater and bridge.

Root Mode - This is the most common type of mode where multiple users access the access point at once like a hotspot. In root mode users with laptops or PDA’s can access the internet to watch videos of the Torino games or just to check email. On a side note, there is a difference between being a mobile user and a roaming user. A mobile user stays connected to one wireless access point. A roaming user moves from access point cell to another access point cell. I point this out because of the extra load on the access point.

Repeater - Repeater mode is used when you want to extend your signal beyond it’s current limits. You need to place the repeater access point with in the range of your current root access point. It must be close enough to the root access point so that the repeater is repeating a strong signal not a weak signal. If you end up repeating the weak signal you will not be able to watch the olympic Torino games.

Bridge - Bridging acts as a wireless wire. Two access points in bridge mode will only talk to each other, No other clients will be able to access them. Bridging is useful when connecting two buildings or large temporary locations when laying laying wire isn’t cost effective.

To set up a wireless bridge you will have two access points and two directional antennas. Depending on the distance, you will use volt meters or manufacture’s software to aim the access points. Prior to doing this you will have to enter the MAC address of each access point so they know who to line up with.

Mounting your antennas properly is one one of the most important things. If you mount your antenna on your roof make sure it is connected to a stud. Take into account that wind is a factor when aligning antennas. You could gave a great signal on a non windy day and no signal on a windy / snowy day. Picking the proper wind rated antenna and proper tower or mounting brackets are the key to bridging.

So when you purchase a wireless access point you are actually purchasing three types of wireless connectivity: Root / Hot spot used to connect multiple mobile clients at once, Repeater which is used to extend the signal of another access point. The last mode we talked about was wireless bridging which is another way saying wirleless wire.

One of the cheapest but most reliable wireless access points I have used is the linksys WAP54g. I have installed this in homes , small offices and schools. 15-20 people can access them at a time and they hardly ever break down. The WAP54g comes with all the latest security features including WPA2 with AES encryption. If you are new to installing wireless access points then you also can take advantage of linksys kickass tech support.

Join the most popular wireless networking news letter on the internet http://www.wirelessninja.com Check out the Wireless Ninja certified access points like the WAP54g http://wirelessninja.com/?page_id=8

Writen by Peter Bishop
Data entry is defined as compiling information into digital format. This could include orders, mailing lists or other compilation that a company needs for their business. As the name implies, data entry jobs usually require putting the information into a database. Therefore, anyone applying for data entry jobs should be familiar or have experience working with database programs.

If the company requires special software to complete the work, they will provide it to their workers at no additional cost. If a company asks that the employee pay for the use of the software, the job may not be legitimate. Depending on the companys requirements, a simple database software program may work well. In addition, if any company charges a fee to learn more about their job opportunities or any type of start-up cost to begin work, avoid them and continue looking. When applying for a job, the applicant should not have to spend money to view a listing or to begin work. In fact, it is just the opposite. The employer pays the applicant and not the other way around. There are legitimate work at home opportunities, including data entry jobs available worldwide, but be cautious of anything that requires a fee upfront.

As is customary when applying for any job, a resume should be made available by the applicant. A resume should detail any former data entry jobs that the applicant has held, along with any special skills relating to data entry and computers. If an applicant is familiar with computers, learning data entry will be a breeze.

The process for searching data entry jobs is much like that of any other employment. Many businesses prefer to have their employees in the office while others allow them to work from home. A quick glance through the classifieds of a local newspaper will let the individual know if there are any data entry jobs available in their area. If that does not work, there are a number of internet job banks, resume posting sites and business opportunities that can be found with the click of a button and a reasonable amount of research.

Data entry specialists often work on a contract basis, which means they freelance for various companies. Rather than paying an employee a full-time salary, many companies understand the advantages to hiring a freelancer. The convenience of having to pay only for the work that needs done is very attractive to most business owners and, if at first they are unwilling to offer freelance work, they may come around after considering the advantages.

Data entry jobs, when done at home, allow the convenience of spending time with children and not having to work outside the house. A work at home career also helps the employee to save big bucks on gasoline and other commuting related costs. It allows the freedom of being able to do chores, take breaks as needed and work in a comfortable environment. Many job seekers worldwide are deciding to pursue work at home careers and, thanks to the technology of today, there is plenty of work to go around.

Peter Bishop manages the Info portal at http://www.dataloggerplus.com and writes about data entry and data recovery.

Writen by Michael Russell
Computer memory refers to either of two types of computer storage. Volatile memory refers to RAM that needs to be constantly refreshed to be retained. Static memory is permanent storage that is retained even after the computer is turned off.

RAM or Random Access Memory is volatile memory that is erased when the power goes off. Program instructions and data held in RAM can be accessed and saved much more quickly than that held in permanent storage. Therefore, files needed to run a program and data that is being processed are held in RAM while they are in use. The amount of RAM you need depends at least partly on the operating system( a program that directs all the basic functions of a computer such as accepting commands from a keyboard, displaying input on a monitor screen, and controlling disk drives and some other peripheral devices) you select as well as the type of programs you intend to run.

When you boot up the computer, in other words turn it on, the operating system or part of it is loaded into the RAM along with a variety of utilities required for normal operation. Therefore, programs and data are loaded into what’s left. As little as 2MB(megabytes) total will suffice for most DOS( disk operating system-a proprietary program that controls all the basic functions of a computer) programs. In a Windows 3.x environment, 4MB is the recommended minimum, but 8MB runs far better.

Beyond operating system demands, the amount of RAM required depends on the applications to be run. For example, heavy graphics, real time video, and such need more RAM to keep things from slowing to a crawl or stop. Generally, off-the-rack machines come with 8 to 16MB, more than enough for a general purpose computer.

With improved handling of memory, reduced access times, and lower cost have conspired to make larger amounts of RAM practical. Which in turn has given programmers free rein to add more bells and whistles. This also helps programmers to become more creative in writing programs that require more RAM. There is reason to believe that this trend will continue.

As for static memory, you don’t have to be very old to remember buying a computer without a hard drive, then later installing a 20MB hard drive, unable to imagine ever needing more storage than that. Today, a 250MB hard drive is popular; however, most new computers are in the 500 to 1000MB( 1 gigabyte) range. And you may need all of that MB and then some.

Computer Memory fact #1: For the faint of heart, when programs or data files are called up from permanent storage, they are not moved, they are merely copied. If the power goes off during processing, programs generally are safe. The only loss will be data that was changed since the last save.

Computer Memory fact #2: If you decided to get a MAC computer, don’t worry. The MAC computer comes loaded with a proprietary operating system and the proper amount of RAM to run it.

Writen by Ray Burton
It’s one thing to loose data and money because of hackers and thieves of various kinds; it’s a different thing again when it’s because you didn’t back up your data properly or not at all. Value your data! Whether it’s that critical business document, your thesis, your website or your home accounts and precious photo’s.

Data can be lost through power surges, computer crashes, fires and theft to name a few. You wouldn’t leave your home unlocked and the doors wide open without any occupants, so be sure to close the door to possible losses and theft of data.

The most important aspect of this issue, is to properly back up. So here are a few things to look for when considering a data back up solution.

1. Is it automatic?

You don’t want to be using a system that is dependent on human action and consequently vulnerable to being forgotten or misused.

2. Is it simple to use?

You don’t want something that’s complicated and time consuming to understand. You need a set and forget system; at least until it’s needed!

3. Is it secure?

Your data must be off-site. It is no good having a back up file on your PC. It must be remotely stored on at least one other PC. If your PC has a major fire etc the hardware maybe lost but the data and profit is safe.

4. Is it confidential?

A sad fact of life is that there are those around that get their kicks from destroying or stealing your data. Make sure the system you use is encrypted to at least 448 bit and password protected. That way total privacy gives peace of mind.

5. Is the data compressed?

If you have a lot of data to back up you’ll want to reduce the storage requirement and cost by having it compressed first. Don’t underestimate how much you business or study material will grow!

6. Is the system informative?

Don’t put your self in the position of “hoping it worked”. Get some form of feedback that assures you it has.

7. Is the system flexible?

Make sure that the system is capable of backing up any file size or type. Don’t get caught out by thinking you don’t need much storage or the ability to save certain types of files.

8. Is it versatile?

Make sure the system has the versatility to deal with pda’s and mobile phones. Also make sure that it has both automatic and manual back facility. You want the automatic feature for the benefit of set and forget, but you also want the, “back up my data now” feature so that you have the benefit of not having to worry through the time between finishing your thesis or proposal and knowing it is really secure.

9. Is it backed up more than once?

Don’t rely on a system that only has one copy. Make sure that it has several copies stored on at least 2, preferably 3, off-site computers. Think virus! If your system is hit with a virus you can then go back to a file before the virus took a hold.

Ray Burton is an online marketer of resources, business opp’s and training programs for those wanting to start and maintain an online presence. Visit his site at http://www.cyberchoices.info. Get a full review of his recommended resource for data backup at http://www.cyberchoices.info/depositit/