Computers and Technology

Everyone with a computer is looking to have the fastest, and most efficient computer filled with the latest computer hardware technology. But to keep up with the continual changes as technology becomes more and more advanced requires complete upgrades on your computer. But, what are the best computer upgrades available?

Memory Upgrade

A memory upgrade is one of the most popular computer hardware upgrades and one of the easiest to do to boost the performance of your pc. But before you do a memory upgrade first check the BIOS operating system to determine how much memory is already on your system.

Also to upgrade your memory it will be necessary for you to open the case of your computer to find out how many modules are currently installed and how many slots are still empty. If all the slots are already filled you may have to remove the modules and replace them with larger ones.

Now, after finding out the current memory situation, review your operating system and application programs to determine how much memory is needed to make your computer perform at its peek level. In general, these programs provide a minimum and a recommended rating. So to reach the fullest potential of your computer, the memory should meet or exceed the recommended level.

Ok, so you now have some basic information to do your memory upgrade, but hold on a second, before running out and buying more memory, check your computer manual or go directly to the motherboard to find out what type of memory is supported by the current computer operating system. If you don't check this out you will most likely get the wrong memory chips and the memory upgrade will not work.

Also keep in mind When buying a memory upgrade module, that it is best to buy the largest amount of memory with the least number of modules. This way, there is room for growth in the future. For example, instead of buying two 512MB modules, purchase one 1gb module.

Video Card Upgrade

A video card upgrade makes it possible to play all of the great games that are currently available on the market. In fact, some games are so advanced that they won't play at all without a very powerful video card.

But it can be tough choosing the right video card since there are literally dozens available. It is very important to first take a look at the motherboard to determine what type of video cards are supported by the system, you can also check your computer manual on the types of video cards your system will support. The best video cards are the ones that transfer data the fastest. In order from the fastest to slowest cards are PCI express, AGP 8x, AGP 4x, AGP 2x, AGP and PCI.

Sound Card Upgrade

The sound card improves the sound produced by the computer. This makes computer gaming more enjoyable, as well as listening to music and watching digital media.

In order to install a sound card, you need to locate an available ISA slot on the back of your computer. These slots are the longest sockets on the motherboard and there might be other cards already installed in those sockets. There are two internal openings on each of the slots at the back of the computer. So, remove the access plate at the rear of the socket to insert the sound card. Make sure the access plate on the sound card covers the hole created by removing the initial access plate. But, be sure to gently insert the sound card with a slow back and forth movement, otherwise the sound card can be damaged.

DVD Player/Burner Upgrade

With so many digital videos becoming available, many people are looking to upgrade to a DVD player and burner combo. The most powerful DVD player/burner currently available is the DVD+R/RW. These do tend to, however, be incompatible with older DVD-ROM drives and DVD players. But the current big names in the industry, such as Sony, HP, and Phillips, support these players. DVD+R/RW drives are faster than previous models and are capable of formatting while burning data to the disc.

Motherboard Upgrade

Now for those of you who are truly serious about upgrading your computer hardware, motherboard upgrades are another popular option. But of course, a motherboard upgrade is the most difficult upgrade to do and I certainly wouldn't recommend it if you don't have a strong background in computers and electronics. For those of you who can manage, however, you will certainly enjoy the freedom of never having to buy a new computer. Instead, the motherboard can be upgraded as technology advances.

In addition to eliminating the need to buy a new computer, a motherboard upgrade also makes it easier to upgrade other components on your computer. This is because purchasing a motherboard ensures receiving the most up to date technology, which is then compatible with other upgrade components.

Upgrading the motherboard, however, requires serious advanced planning and reading of your computer manual. If you don't do this correctly, your computer will be nothing more than a huge paperweight. If finished correctly, however, the computer will remain on the cutting edge of current technology.

Computer filters offer dust and dirt protection for your PC. A common fear is that adding a computer filter to the air inlet port near the power supply fan may do little to block dust and dirt from entering the computer unit. New pcs have numerous internal fans and it is often not easy to figure out where air is supposed to enter the main unit and where air is intended to be exhausted. Some fans are used just to circulate internal air as well. A simple computer filter on the back of a PC is not going to work for the long term.

A better computer filter solution is one that is relatively new on the market. It is essentially a breathable filter bag that covers all inlet and outlet ports of a computer unit but still allows the computer to be cooled properly. New dust bag style computer filters protect the entire unit from dust, dirt, and other airborne contaminants. They are designed in sizes to fit virtually any computer tower and can be installed in minutes. They work well for monitors and printers as well, both of which need clean filtered air to assure proper long-term operation.

Computer filters used on computer enclosures also do a poor job protecting your computer from dust and dirt in the long term. One reason is because most computer cabinets require you to open the cabinet to operate the computer, for instance to access the CDROM or floppy drive. These operational requirements allow dust to bypass the cabinet dust filter and traps dust within the cabinet which eventually will be pulled inside the PC and settle there. This is completely preventable with a dust bag filter.

It is very important to use computer filters with PCs used in industrial or workshop situations where dust and dirt can very rapidly reduce the reliability and lifespan of the computer. Critical computer components exposed to dust and dirt, particularly the mechanical components like the keyboard and CD-ROM, can cease to operate without warning, and many times cannot be repaired once damaged by these contaminants. Studies have shown that dust can fill an unprotected computer in a matter of days, causing it to overheat. And metal dust can cause circuits to short-out, introducing a new workshop hazard. Dust bag style computer filters can do a lot to minimize these issues.

A problem with traditional computer filters is that they are designed to capture dust without impacting the amount of air that can enter the computer for cooling. This requires them to be fairly porous with the filter designed to capture the larger dust particles and allowing smaller dust particles and other airborne particles to pass through. The small surface area of the standard filter means that the air-flow must be relatively high, and dust and dirt collecting in the filter material quickly begins to restrict air flow. This problem is ameliorated by the larger dust bag, where the huge surface area of the filter translates into lower air-flow speed and a larger area to spread the dust trying to enter the computer. The lower air-flow speed also ensures less dust makes it through the filter material, especially smaller dust particles and airborne mists.
A small investment in a dust filter can offer a level of insurance that your computer equipment will operate when you need it to, and not wear out before its time.
Dust bag style computer filters are especially effective, easy to install and inexpensive.

Although there are many things that can affect the performance of your computer, there are a few simply things you can do each month to help keep your computer running at maximum performance. This article will focus on two problems that impact the performance of your computer and will then explain what you can do about it.

Problem #1: Computer Hard Disk Files

Your computer is always writing information to your hard disk, no matter what you do. Your computer attempts to keep all file information in the same location on your hard drive. As you add and delete files, blank spaces are left between your files. As you add new programs or files, your computer tries to use these blank spaces.

Over time, this reading and writing of files can affect the way your computer performs. The files eventually become scattered in multiple locations on your hard disk rather than in the same location.

Your computer will still find the information. However, the more scattered the information becomes on your hard drive, the more accesses your computer has to make to find (and gather) the information. This requires your hard disk to work harder and do more reading/writing than is necessary. It will slow down your computer by as much as 200% and causes increased wear and tear on your hard drive.

Problem #2: Spyware

If you use the Internet, at some point you will download a file or software program onto your computer. Sometimes you will know something is being downloaded to your computer. Other times you will have no idea. (Although this article will not talk about small files called "cookies", you may want to look up information on this subject. Cookies are written onto your computer from the Internet.)

Free computer programs (often referred to as Freeware) are a big hit on the Internet. Every day thousands of users download these "free programs". Although there are some great freeware programs, these programs often have advertisements or tracking code associated with their use. The term "Spyware" refers to programs that gather information about your computer and (Internet) surfing habits without your knowledge. This information is then sold to a third party company as a means of generating revenue.

The problem with Spyware is that it also impacts the performance of your computer. It can make your computer very sluggish and unresponsive.

Three Steps to Improved Computer Performance

Now that we've discussed two problems that affect the performance of your computer, let's discuss three things you can do to get your computer performance back to normal. You should do these three steps in the order presented. Ideally, you should repeat them about once a month or whenever you notice a change in your computer's performance.

Step #1: Delete Spyware

The first thing you should do is to delete spyware files or programs from your computer. To do this, you can use a free software program such as Ad-Aware SE Personal Edition from LavaSoft. To get the program, go to http://www.download.com and search for "Ad-Aware SE" (without the quotes). Select "Download Now" and follow the installation instructions. Once the program is installed, you can scan your computer for spyware files. Then, you can select and delete them from your computer.

Note #1: Always be sure to use the "Check for updates now" option to keep your program current.

Note #2: You need to be aware that when you delete spyware files, some of those "free" programs you downloaded may not continue to work correctly. If you have a program you've downloaded and want to continue to use, check very carefully what you select to delete from the "Scanning results" once the scan has been completed.

Step #2: Clean up your Hard Disk

Once the spyware is removed, you need to clean up temporary and unwanted files from your hard disk. To do this on your windows PC, select the start option in the lower left hand corner of your computer screen. Then, select the program option. Under the program option, select "Accessories". Under the "Accessories" option, select "System Tools". From the System Tools option, select "Disk Cleanup".

Select the drive you want to clean from the pull-down menu and select OK. Usually, this is Drive C. If you have more than one hard drive, select one at a time. This program will then scan your computer for files that could be erased from your computer. You can safely erase all temporary and Recycle Bin files. You can also check the box of any other files you want the program to erase.

Step #3: Defrag your Hard Disk

Once all the spyware and temporary files are removed, you need to defrag your hard disk. This process simply rewrites your computer files so they are no longer scattered all over your hard disk, but are written in the same location for quick sequential access.

To defrag your hard disk on your windows PC, select the start option in the lower left hand corner of your computer screen. Then, select the program option. Under the program option, select "Accessories". Under the "Accessories" option, select "System Tools". From the System Tools option, select "Disk Defragmenter". First, select the hard drive from your computer. Usually, this is Drive C. However, many computers have multiple hard drives. Select one at a time.

You can select "Analyze" to have the program check out the hard drive and see if it needs to be defragged. The program will prompt you at the completion of its analysis. Use the defragment option as prompted.

Note: If you've never used this option before, I would recommend that you select the defragment option.

Once, you've completed these three steps, your computer and hard disk should be able to operate at maximum performance. Don't forget to repeat these steps at least once a month or whenever you notice a change in your computer's performance.

The early computers

The history of computer dates back a lot longer than the 1900s, in fact computers have been around for over 5000 years.

In ancient time a "computer", (or "computor") was a person who performed numerical calculations under the direction of a mathematician.

Some of the better known devices used are the Abacus or the Antikythera mechanism.

Around 1725 Basile Bouchon used perforated paper in a loom to establish the pattern to be reproduced on cloth. This ensured that the pattern was always the same and hardly had any human errors.

Later, in 1801, Joseph Jacquard (1752 - 1834), used the punch card idea to automate more devices with great success.

The First computers?

Charles Babbage's. (1792-1871), was ahead of his time, and using the punch card idea he developed the first computing devices that would be used for scientific purposes. He invented the Charles Babbage's Difference Engine, which he begun in 1823 but never completed. Later he started work on the Analytical Engine, it was designed in 1842.

Babbage was also credited with inventing computing concepts such as conditional branches, iterative loops and index variables.

Ada Lovelace (1815-1852), was a colleague of Babbage and founder of scientific computing.

Many people improved on the Babbage inventions, George Scheutz along with his son, Edvard Scheutz, began work on a smaller version and by 1853 they had constructed a machine that could process 15-digit numbers and calculate fourth-order differences.

On of the first notable commercial use, (and success), of computers was the US Census Bureau, which used punch-card equipment designed by Herman Hollerith to tabulate data for the 1890 census.

To compensate for the cyclical nature of the Census Bureau's demand for his machines, Hollerith founded the Tabulating Machine Company (1896), which was one of three companies that merged to form IBM in 1911.

Later, Claude Shannon (1916- 2001) first suggested the use of digital electronics in computers and in 1937 and J.V.Atanasoff built the first electronic computer that could solve 29 simultaneous equations with 29 unknowns. But this device was not programmable

During those trouble times, computers evolved at a rapid rate. But because of restrictions many projects remained secret until much later and notable example is the British military "Colossus" developed in 1943 by Alan Turing and his team.

In the late 1940 the US army commissioned John V. Mauchly to develop a device to compute ballistics during World War II. As it turned out the machine was only ready in 1945, but the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer, or ENIAC, proved to be a turning point in computer history.

ENIAC proved to be a very efficient machine but not a very easy one to operate. Any changes would sometime require the device itself to be re-programmed. The engineers were all too aware of this obvious problem and they developed "stored program architecture".

John von Neumann, (a consultant to the ENIAC), Mauchly and his team developed EDVAC, this new project used stored program.

Eckert and Mauchly later developed what was arguably the first commercially successful computer, the UNIVAC.

Software technology during this period was very primitive. The first programs were written out in machine code. By the 1950s programmers were using a symbolic notation, known as assembly language, then hand-translating the symbolic notation into machine code. Later programs known as assemblers performed the translation task.

The Transistor era, the end of the inventor.

Late 1950 saw the end of valve driven computers. Transistor based computers were used because they were smaller, cheaper, faster and a lot more reliable.

Corporations, rather than inventors, were now producing the new computers.

Some of the better known ones are:

• TRADIC at Bell Laboratories in 1954,
• TX-0 at MIT's Lincoln Laboratory
• IBM 704 and its successors, the 709 and 7094. The latter introduced I/O processors for better throughput between I/O devices and main memory
• First supper computers, The Livermore Atomic Research Computer (LARC) and the IBM 7030 (aka Stretch)
• The Texas Instrument Advanced Scientific Computer (TI-ASC)

Now the basis of computers was in place, with transistors the computers were faster and with Stored program architecture you could use the computer for almost anything.

New high level programs soon arrived, FORTRAN (1956), ALGOL (1958), and COBOL (1959), Cambridge and the University of London cooperated in the development of CPL (Combined Programming Language, 1963). Martin Richards of Cambridge developed a subset of CPL called BCPL (Basic Computer Programming Language, 1967).

In 1969, the CDC 7600 was released, it could perform 10 million floating point operations per second (10 Mflops).

The network years.

From 1985 onward the race was on to put as many transistors as possible on one computer. Each one of them could do a simple operation. But apart from been faster and been able to perform more operations the computer has not evolved much.

The concept of parallel processing is more widely used from the 1990s.

In the area of computer networking, both wide area network (WAN) and local area network (LAN) technology developed at a rapid pace

Get a more detailed history of computer [http://www.myoddpc.com/other/history_of_computer.php].

Do You Feel Used by Computers?

A look at second-user computer equipment.

Let's dispense with the myths first. I'm NOT talking about the sort of second-hand computers you get from some high street junk shops, or the sort you can buy from free ads newspapers. These are the types that get used computers a bad reputation since there are many dodgy deals to be had!

I'm talking about a different breed altogether, the sort of used computers you'd be proud to own and feel safe buying because they have proper and lengthy warranties on each and every one of them and have been extensively tested and approved.

The criterion is quite strict. Sure, there are any number of companies out there who offer used computers at low prices. Very few offer 12-month warranties however and many of them disappear just as quickly as they arrived leaving you with a problem. All computers, no matter which category they fit in, or what you call them, should be high quality, guaranteed, fully working computers from a reputable supplier.

So, let's put all the computers into two categories, I'm going to call them 'used' and 'unused' computers.

1. Used Computers

Second-hand, second user and used computers are what you would expect in that they have had a previous owner. Many of the computers have been returned to the company from which they were bought in the first place. This is ideal as the company has the appropriate expertise and spares already in place to correct any faults they find.

There are a number of reasons why computers are returned:

- businesses, colleges, individuals etc upgrade their computer equipment for the latest model

- the equipment was leased over a set period and the lease expires (so the equipment is returned)

- the computer gets a fault that can't be fixed quickly so it is swapped permanently out for a new one

- the customer changes their mind just after purchasing

As you can appreciate, 'used computer' can mean anything from 'barely used' to 'a couple of years old'. However, once returned the computers go through a rigorous check procedure, have their hard disks cleared or changed, have new keyboards, mice and cables if worn and new cases if they have noticeable damage. If there are any faulty components, such as sound card, video card, floppy drive etc, these are always replaced. These computers are often referred to as ex-lease, open-box, returns, refurbished, reclaimed, remanufactured, rebuilt, recycled, recertified or reconditioned computers. Phew!

At worst, the used computers, as sold on to you, have minor blemishes, scratches, dents or wear. This is always just cosmetic and does not affect either the performance or value of the computers in any way. What you receive is a fully-working computer, the same working condition as new, but at a price well below that of new. You can often pick up recent high-specification models second-hand and save hundreds of pounds. Of course there are lots of bargains to be had whatever model or type you decide to purchase but note you will sometimes find it difficult to get anything as stock can go very quickly some weeks.

2. Unused Computers

The other main categories of computers are the overstock, surplus, liquidated, superceded, discontinued, open box or end-of-line stock. These are all basically the same in that they are all UNUSED computers. So these are not what you would really classify as second-hand, ie they have not personally been owned and used by any business, college, individual etc. They will often be in their original packaging.

The reasons why these computers come on to the market are because:

- a manufacturer has brought out new models and wants to get rid of the 'old' superceded stock in his warehouse

- a store wants to raise some urgently needed cash and sell his unsold stock

- a factory or store becomes bankrupt and the computer stock is sold

In most of these cases, the stock gets sold to specialist dealers who buy in bulk and who then sell it on to the public, businesses etc. They then either provide a new warranty themselves for the equipment, or ensure there is a full warranty from the original manufacturer. You'll often find Toshiba, HP, Compaq and other brand name computers offered with a 12-month warranty from the original manufacturer. Note that sometimes suppliers refer to open box as meaning refurbished - they will usually state in the description what they mean.

So that's it. Two main categories of computers, quite different from each other but both offering great deals on branded equipment. Either way you will save money and still get a peace-of-mind guarantee on your computer purchase.

One last point. Make sure you check what you are getting for your money. Sometimes the computer may come without Windows installed or without a monitor. Don't assume - check. This will ensure you are happy with your savings AND your purchase.

Today, computer and video games outsell almost every other type of toy at toy stores. Most children play computer games or video games somewhere - if not in arcades and internet cafes, then maybe at home or at friends' homes. The computer game industry is a billion dollar industry. In many homes, it is also a key point of tension.

Should You Be Worried?

Most child care experts and child education experts agree that parents should be worried about the computer games their children play. While most children enjoy playing computer games, these toys are not always useful or appropriate for children. In the best of circumstances, games take children away from school work and physical activities. At worst, many games give children less than ideal messages about violence, society, and advertised products. Many computer games simply have little educational value.

Computer games also have been linked to some serious physical problems in children. Some experts have blamed computer games and video games for increased rates of obesity among children. Studies have shown that children also run a high risk of repetitive strain injury (RSI) when they spend time playing computer games.

To reduce the risk of RSI, you will want to limit your child's computer sessions to less than an hour. Keeping the computer in a visible area of the house will make it easier for you to enforce this rule.

You will also want to create an ergonomically correct computer station for your child. Even if your child will be using the computer for less than an hour a day, make sure that your child has a comfortable, child-sized chair to use.

What Can You Do?

Experts suggest that educational games are not only a more age-appropriate alternative to violent computer games, but studies show that computer games with educational content can help build skills such as math, vocabulary, writing, geography, mapping, thinking, memory, science, and other skills needed for success in school. Some educators claim that computer games put play back into learning and encourage children to learn even after school and during playtime.

Educational computer games in fact have many benefits. They are not very expensive, but can often help your child with difficult areas in school. For example, if your child is having a hard time learning to read, computer games can help improve your child's reading skills as part of a game. Your child will not feel discouraged and may even come to see reading as fun.

There are in fact few drawbacks to educational computer games. Some parents have noted that many educational titles are aimed at younger children, but many software manufacturer's today also develop good instructional content for older children. One problem that many parents have is to get children - and especially older children - to even try educational computer games.

If your children already love computer games, simply banning games can feel like a punishment. Children may resist having their entertainment taken away from them. A better alternative may be to make use of computer games to promote learning by selecting from the educational computer games available. Educational computer games are meant to develop skills such as math skills, reasoning skills, reading skills, and word skills. They are also designed to be fun so that children actually enjoy playing these games.

In order to bring educational computer games successfully into your home, you need to set up a system that works. First, you need to find some educational software that your children will enjoy. Then, you will have to suggest these games to your children. Many parents have found that linking rewards to educational game works wonders. For example, if children are able to get a certain amount of points in a word game or are able to make a certain level of progress in a math game, they can be given small treats or prizes. This will help encourage children to enjoy the games more and stick with the games. For young children, having a parent play a game with them can be rewarding in itself. For older children, prizes and rewards often work best.

Below you will find a list of 5 tips concerning computer freezing help. They are all things that have the potential to increase the speed of your slow computer and are, most importantly, free. We save a lot of important information on our computer, so we want it to be in its best condition when defending itself from viruses, spyware, keyloggers, and anything else malicious.

1. Find Out Why Your Computer Keeps Freezing.

This is pretty obvious, right? Well the root of the problem is not always so apparent. Ask yourself, "What am I doing when my computer freezes?" Are you playing video games? Could it possibly be overheating and shutting down? If so, you need to find some way to keep the temperature cooler. Is there no apparent pattern when your computer freezes up? It might be a virus, and actions should be taken appropriately.

2. Use Safe Mode for Troubleshooting

For the most part, safe mode is a safe haven away from many errors and other problems plaguing your computer system. This is because it only uses essential Windows programs -- just enough to run, nothing else fancy. If your computer does not run slowly of freeze while in safe mode, it might be fixable. In safe mode, your computer does not allow anything foreign to run, so if you activate a virus scan while in safe mode, it could remove the virus when running in normal mode it could not. Running in safe mode is the best way to try to fix the problem, assuming it is software related.

3. Keep Your Computer Clean, Hardware and Software Alike.

Of course it is important to keep your computer clean of viruses and spyware using the appropriate antivirus and anti-spyware software, but the physical computer needs some monthly maintenance too. Your computer could keep freezing up just because it is simply filthy. Buy some form of compressed air in a can for a few dollars. Stick the hose of a vacuum near your computer tower, and use the compressed air to blow out the dust into the vacuum's stream of suction (so the dust does not just resettle). Make sure there is no form of power connected to your computer at this time; if computer fans are on and you used compressed air against them, it could damage the fans. Whether your computer has problems or not, this is a good practice. Dust is often the silent killer of computers; the dust makes them very susceptible to overheating and freezing (funny, huh?).

4. Monitor Your Computer Use.

Password-protect your computer, and make sure you know any time someone uses it. Sure, none of your friends or family would harm your computer, but they never do it on purpose. Plus, if it is not password protected, it will make it that much more difficult to diagnose the problem if you have no idea what has been taking place on your computer. This leads me into my final tip.

5. Watch What You Click.

Fake links are everywhere, and the people making them are just getting better and better at making them look real. Tip #4 is important because one of your children could click a seemingly safe link, but it actual ends up installing a keylogger that reports everything you type back to an unknown location. Then it is just a matter of time before the unknown has your account information. If someone using your computer falls for many of these tricks, your computer could pile up with much needless information and programs, causing your computer to run slow or freeze.

The easiest way to tell if a link is fake is by hovering over the link. Look at the bottom corner and see if that link matches the link you are hovering over. But, of course, that is sometimes faked too, most commonly in e-mails. The safest method of following links is copying the link from the page on the address bar. Google Chrome and other browsers also alert you when they think you might be going to a malicious link. Always take their advice: If they think it is not safe then it probably is not worth finding out.

In a world full of internet users and computerholics, it is crucial that you have an extensive amount of knowledge. With such an abundance of companies turning to computer repair and building, it is no wonder that thousands of people are now trying to turn it into a career. Since computers have taken over our every day activities, careers in computer training and computer repair have flourished. Although it is one of the hardest jobs in the industry, it is not only rewarding, but filled with great connections.

In order to get a job as a computer repair technician or a computer builder, one must have the appropriate amount of computer training. After all, CBT is crucial when you are showing a client the work you have done. Chances are not many firms will want to hire you if you do not have the right computer training. Surprisingly, these two fields are the most difficult because they require more logic and skill. Unfortunately, most of this knowledge will only come from computer training courses. However, there are a select few who have developed it from having their own clients and avoiding the education route.

If you want to succeed quickly, CBT is really the only way to go. There are those who have been repairing and building computers since they were fifteen, but only a select few succeed in a world of educated technicians. In order to get a great job right out of school, it is crucial that you sign up for a CBT program. These computer training classes will teach you not only about electronics, but also about every part that makes up a computer. While you won't be as knowledgeable as an electrician, you still will have a basic idea of how electronics work. It is great for people who want to build computers, as they are taught how to build each part.

After you learn about the computer parts, you will take computer training courses that teach you how to trouble shoot a problem. With thousands of computers in homes, it is very likely that these people will come across problems every now and then. Therefore, if you are planning on going into the computer repair field, this is a very important factor to know. It is imperative that you study hard and pay attention to all of these concepts, because you will need these skills in the workforce. The best part about these computer training programs is that it is very hands on. Many instructors will give a student a computer with a virus or an extensive problem. They then have to troubleshoot it until they fix the error. This will give them practice for real life situations, incase they cannot figure out a specific issue.

Once you have completed your computer training, you are able to get you're A-1 certification. This degree will allow you to work as a computer technician, whether it is in the repair or building field. Although this job is extremely hard work and sometimes physically challenging, it makes you feel good to know that you are needed. Thousands of clients a day rely on your help, thus giving you a sense of knowledge and pride to know that your job is important. No matter what you decide to do, computer based training is the only way to go. From web developing to computer repair, these computer training courses will give you the knowledge to apply it in any area.

Do you find that your new-ish laptop or desktop computer just does not seem to run like it did when you got it out of the box? Are applications taking a long time to load or failing to respond when you are simply completing daily tasks? Personally, I hate it when my computer is running slow. If I am doing some work, then I want to get it completed as quickly as possible. I don't want to be held up by anything but my own brainpower! Many of you are probably curious as to what is causing your computer to run so slowly in the first place.

Well, let me fill you in on a few of the reasons why you might be experiencing a slow computer as well as what can be done to fix your slow PC.

Your computer may be infected with Spyware or viruses (or both)

Anytime you search the internet your computer potentially becomes susceptible to Spyware or Viruses. Spyware can infect your computer and collects personal information without you knowing and certainly without asking you for permission. Spyware can slow your computer down and affect your computers performance markedly. If you are accessing the internet from your PC then it is important to protect your computer with Anti Spyware and Anti Virus products alongside a good firewall. If you computer is slow then potentially your computer may already have been targeted. A good anti-spyware and anti-virus product will scan and clean your computer, and keep it protected from threats ongoing by supplying regular product updates.

Your computer registry may have errors

Your computer registry is the 'brain' of Windows. Every process on your computer gets logged or accesses the registry. When the registry becomes very large, your computers performance can decrease and cause it to become unstable.

To prevent Windows errors it is important to complete regular maintenance of your computer registry. Part of this maintenance is ensuring that your Windows registry always remains clean - so that it is devoid of any entry that should not be in there.

There are a range of windows registry cleaners on the market today that can keep your registry clean and functioning at its optimal level.

Too many applications running, heaps of files and too much junk!

That's right, your hoarding of old files, fondness for new applications, and your tendency to want every file you ever used open on your desktop have caught up with you!

So... what can you do about it?

1. Don't try to run too many applications on your computer all at once - this will affect the speed of your computer. Adopt a less is more approach - and only open the ones you really are working on!

2. Remove some of the programs that are running in the background. It is important to make sure that there aren't too many things going on at once. Check the tray next to the clock. If there is a whole possie of icons in action down there then it is bound to be slowing down your system during routine activity . Close any of the items you don't need.

3. Free up disk space. Freeing up disk space will improve the speed of your computer no end. You can use the Disk clean up tool to assist with this process. This utility will identify files that can safely be deleted including - temporary internet files, downloaded program files, emptying the recycle bin, removing Windows Temporary files, removing installed programs that are no longer used. In addition to this you should regularly review and delete old files, folders and emails to free up space on your PC. Remember to back up important files, folders and applications before doing this!

Inadequate Memory

After a while your crumby old computer will slow down on you. Part of this decrease in speed may be due to a lack of memory. This might be the time to check the Ram on your machine and think about topping it up. 512Mb I would recommend as an absolute minimum. Without enough memory Windows will swap RAM to disk as "virtual memory" and that can really bog things down. Adding more memory to your machine can be one of the fastest ways to increase the speed - so it may be worth considering this! You can never really have too much RAM.

Why buy a 'new' computer when you can get the same refurbished computer at up to 80% savings and there is no difference in the quality or warranty? Statistics show that people who have already bought a factory refurbished computer will never buy 'new' computer again! Manufacturers are so sure about there refurbished computer equipment that they offer the original warranties.

Exactly what is considered factory refurbished computer equipment?

A lot of things can be labeled factory refurbished. So frivolous are some that it's silly enough to make you laugh! Consumer laws prevent manufacturers from selling anything considered factory refurbished as new, so the second consumer gets the best deal and its just like a new computer!

For example, most major retail stores offer a 30 day money back guarantee on their computer equipment and some consumers take advantage of this. So when the new computer is returned, the manufacturer inspects the product and repackages it like new. But it can't be sold as new now so you get a great price with the original warranty, now its considered a refurbished computer. Other reasons may be the box was damaged in shipment and so it was returned, a slight defect, the defective part is replaced by the manufacturer, tested and then repackaged just like new. Maybe a minor cosmetic blemish on the casing that was corrected. Demonstration units are also considered factory refurbished computers. They are also inspected, tested and repackaged. The box was simply opened or brand new items that have been overstocked are also labeled factory refurbished.

It's hard to tell the history of each and every refurbished computer item but what ever the reason for the refurbished label you can be sure that the computer equipment has been inspected and serviced by the manufacturer then tested and repackaged to meet original product specifications, just like a new computer. And like I said before, all computer equipment merchandise is warranted by the original manufacturer unless otherwise specified.

Why buy a refurbished computer?

Well, to save MONEY! Why not get the best value while getting the exact same computer equipment? Also, you get the original manufacturers warranty and get a much, much lower price on your new computer.

Now with refurbished computer equipment you can afford that item which has been just out of your reach because it cost too much. And you will get the same performance! Actually refurbished items have a much lower defect rate than new ones. Only one in ten units that come back for repair is usually a factory refurb! That is because they are closely tested before they are sold. The only difference you may notice is a little label on the outside of the box or simply a brown box. So think hard before your purchase, are you shopping smart?

In today's world, having a computer is now a common fact. However, with that common fact always comes the issue of money. Many computer brands today simply advertise how excellent their company-made computers are, but those advertisements blind us, the consumers, from what that company-made computer is worth. Is it worth the price tag?

Well, let me tell you the answer to that question: NO. Many popular computer brands do not tell us everything that is in the computer, from the power supply to the desktop memory. Without this information, we have no idea if the money is worth the computer. That's exactly what computer companies want us to ignore.

There are also companies out there where they let you pick the components on your own, and they build the computer for you. This seems to be a good idea for a few seconds, but notice this: they don't tell you how much money it costs for the computer company to buy those components. For all you know, they may be ripping you off big time.

Then, you ask, what should I do to get a computer if you say that buying computers isn't worth the money? Well, I have an answer for all of you: build one.

So, let's say you are out on the market for a new gaming computer because Your old Pentium III computer just doesn't cut it anymore. So you come across a company that sells custom computers for you if you pick out the components on your own, or you come across a company that picks components for you AND builds it for you. And then you go to a forum and someone else tells you to get away from that company and build one on your own. Which path is better?

Simply put, building a computer on your own beats out every aspect of buying a computer. Here's why:

1. Money: Did you think they're going to buy your components, build it, and put a "small" extra fee? That sounds nice, but that's not being realistic. Let me just save you from the misery now: NO. For one, you don't know the exact price they bought the parts for. If you don't know, let me tell you now: some companies put extra money on each product so they get the most out of your wallet.

Then comes the fee for building the computer. Well, let me just tell you, it takes me maybe 2 hours max to build my computer, and they still charge a fee. That's the way it goes. They're trying to get the most money they can take out of your wallet without being noticed. That's the fault that many people are currently in.

Then comes the customer service. They may say "free 24/7 customer service" in a persuasive and friendly voice, but do not be tricked; it's not FREE. They won't charge you when you call them, but it's included in the final price you pay for the computer. There goes another $xx from your wallet.

However, if you build your own computer, you know the price of each and every one of your components, and you will be your own customer service. No extra fee, no calling customer service, nothing extra. Just you and your computer. And if you ever have a question, you can always go onto numerous computer forums with friendly members who are always there to help you.

2. Knowledge: now, this is where I think the most weight is. Let's say that you still, upon reading my first list, bought a computer from a popular computer company, and this was your first ever custom built computer. Hooray, your computer came in a nice case, with everything you wanted in it, and you start playing games at the settings you wanted to play them. 2 weeks later, the computer dies on you. What now? You call customer service of course! Let me tell you, they probably won't know how to fix it for you right there. If you're lucky, they'll have you send it back to them and MAKE YOU PAY THE SHIPPING, and then if you're even luckier, ship you another computer in a time frame of a month.

That's some nice ideal events there, but I'm going to tell you now, it probably won't happen.

Now, imagine if you bought all of the components on your own, and you built it on your own. You know every single component of your computer inside and out, and if your computer dies on you, you won't have to call customer service, or ship the computer back. You're your own customer service; by buying the components, you researched your parts and gained much knowledge about all the parts. You'll know how to pick out the bad part, and send only that one back. You don't need to wait months; if you researched your products, you bought the products that perform well and have good service when your part breaks. So, you just send back your part, and wallah, a brand new one comes right back, you install it on your computer, and it works like a charm again. You're ready to continue on your gaming adventures.

3. Fun: don't think this needs much explanation.

If you just want to buy a custom built computer, you just go on the Internet, find your brand, and they ship one to you. I don't think there's much fun in that.

If you research your parts, buy them, and build it all, it's a lot of fun. That was the case for me. And with knowledge, comes great power.

Computers nowadays have become a part and parcel of everyone's life. To keep oneself updated, one needs to match pace with the changing technology. You too must be using a computer for various personal and professional purposes. The real problem arises when you do not have a computer of your own and have to depend on neighbors and friends who have a PC. This may be embarrassing at times. With a computer loan, now you can easily have a computer of your own.

Computer Loans are personal loans that enable people to purchase new or second hand computers, fitted with all the latest gadgets. It is available as secured and unsecured computer loan. Secured computer loan is a loan secured against the collateral of the borrower. While, an unsecured computer loan does not require a borrower to put his property as a security against the loan.

There has been a tremendous rise in the number of computer users, thanks to the fast and easily available computer loans. Computer loans are designed to cater to the needs and expectations of the UK residents.

Computers are used at home, schools, colleges, universities and offices. Usage of a computer is not confined to the four walls of a house; one can explore the whole world by just sitting in front of it. In today's world of Internet and email, you can compose music on the computer; edit your home movies, download songs or simply play the latest games and can enjoy hours of fun.

Benefits of owning a PC: -

oResearch - You can research on any topic of interest.

oWord Processing - You can organize documents, plans, newsletters, etc

oEmail - You can stay in touch with your close ones through mails.

oInstant Messaging - You can send instant message to friends and family members

oCollaboration - You can access online syllabi, course requirements

Computer loans are normally for smaller amounts than the average loan and are easier to obtain. Annual percentage rate (APR) depends on the type of loan borrower wishes to borrow and for how long, i.e. term of the loan. Computer loans are offered at an APR ranging from 7.25% to 15%. An unsecured computer loan generally carries a higher APR than a secured computer loan, since any collateral does not guarantee loan repayments.

A good credit score can work wonders for a borrower, as it reflects the good credit worthiness of the borrower. Better, the credit score the more are your chances to get the loan for a bigger amount with a longer repayment term. However, people with bad credit score, CCJs, arrears or defaults need not feel disheartened, they too can apply for this loan.

A borrower can seek a computer loan from various financial institutions and online lenders. Applying for a computer loan online will be the most convenient method. Online process of applying for a loan is easy; a loan applicant is just required to fill up a simple and small application form. A borrower can access infinite number of online lenders through Internet that offer several loan options. You need to make a little effort. Collect loan quotes from various lenders and compare them to find the loan that suits you the best.

Are you unable to decide which loan option is best for you? You need not worry. Independent Financial Advisors (IFAs) can help you get the right product that can match with your individual needs. Financial advisors will provide their advice in written describing the reasons behind the preference for a particular loan option, in order to make sure that you are fully informed about the pros and cons of the loan.

Each one of us dreams to have a computer of our own. With Computer Loans, they have come closer to achieving this dream. In fact, many of the computer acquisitions have been the result of computer loans. Apply for a computer loan online and see yourself using your own computer next time.

With the vast and rapid advancement in technology, we are seeing more and more kinds of gadgets surfacing in this world with the sole purpose of helping us lead a better lifestyle. However, the never-ending crave from the human race for a better living standard has pushed us to ask for more and not just convenience itself, but also being able to have it in an instant.

It is obvious that when we require something from our machine friends, we want them to be able to do it fast, thus sometimes when they do not perform up to expectation, it makes us feel disappointed. Most of the time the most common 'machine' that lets us down is our computer; being the access to the vast information of the world wide web, we expect that our computers should always be at their optimal performance and not become sluggish. But the problem is, we do not know that it is the very fact that we force them to work so hard and fast that is causing them to fail even faster.

How then do we save a computer that is slowing down? In this article, we look into some ways whereby you can speed up your computer.

1. Upgrade your RAM

The RAM of your computer is similar to the engine in your car. It is the driving force and as years go by, newer technology surfaces and your 'engine' becomes out-dated. As such, it no longer is able to keep up with the currently much newer and faster technology. Thus, you may decide to upgrade your RAM to allow your computer to have more available memory since it is a rather cheap solution and also you should do this even more if you know that the cause of the slowing down of your computer is due to a lack of memory.

2. Deal with your computer's registry

Not many people are familiar with a part of their computers named the registry. Whilst others may treat it as something small, the registry can actually play a big role in causing your computer to slow down. The registry is the part of the computer that saves the files and registry keys which instructs your computer on how it should run. However, after a long period of time, these files and keys can become corrupted or in some cases, they go missing. As a result, without the right files, the computer is slowed down as it has to go over those missing files and corrupt files, acting like blockages in the computer system. You can solve this problem by downloading a cleaner software that flushes out all the missing and corrupt files and also you can scan your computer to find out where the errors are.

Other registry problems are false entries. As mentioned earlier, the registry is where your computer stores its files, from downloads or from passwords. However, when these data are inputted, there are not deleted even after you delete them from your desktop. It is something like, crossing the bridge and burning the bridge you have crossed, there is no reversal. As such, this forms lots of false entries which can slow down the performance of your computer. Furthermore, spyware and viruses also leave lots of false entries behind and the only way to clean them off is to use a registry cleaner to flush them out and keep your computer running at its maximum capacity.

3. Do not have multiple programs

There are people who love to multi-task in their life and they bring that lifestyle to their computer. While our brains are often coined as a super-computer, we cannot expect the same for our own home computers. If we were to open Microsoft Word, Excel, Itunes, Windows Mediaplayer, together with dozens of websites all at the same time while chatting with your colleagues on Web messenger, your computer would not be able to take it. Thus, it would function slowly to provide the maximum quality out of all those programs. Remember, every computer has its own limits and if you go over the bar, you just cause it function at less than its peak potential.

Computer programming is the process of designing and writing computer programs. That is pretty straightforward, isn't it?

At its most basic, you can think of programming as giving instructions to a computer to do something you want it to do - which might sound very similar to how you operate your desktop computer. Simplistically, the only difference between what you are doing now as a computer user and what you might do as a computer programmer is that the instructions are saved somewhere so they can be used over and over. As a matter of fact, if you have used macros in a software program like a word processor or spreadsheet (or countless other applications that are macro enabled) you have done computer programming of a sort.

Programs can be as simple as a set of instructions stored in a text file for doing some mundane task, like making backups of all the computer files in a folder, or as complex as something like a word processor, or the operating system that your computer uses which can require millions of lines of code. We need to understand that computers, which are generally just pieces of metal, plastic, silicon, and other materials stuck together in a way that allows them to do some amazing things that seem like thinking, can't actually think at all. But what they can do extremely well is follow instructions. So what are these instructions, anyway? At the level that a computer understands, these have to be very precise, very detailed, and very complete step-by-step directions, and they must be in a form that the processor and other parts of the computer can understand - and that is as little electrical pulses which humans aren't capable of emitting (at least not at this time).

In a way, you can think of a computer program like a recipe: a set of instructions that can be followed to produce a result. In the case of a recipe, the instructions are used by a human and can therefore be a bit descriptive, leaving out some of the details. For example, if a recipe instruction is to "pour the mixture into a blender and whip until frothy", it is assuming that the human knows what a blender is, and where it is, and how to set it up, and how to use it - and also what pour means, and what frothy means, and so on. The human chef is expected to fill in the gaps. A computer can't do this - it has no idea what anything means, except for a few very simple instructions. So the way we do this is to give the human a way to write instructions that can then be translated into something the computer can understand. The "way to write instructions" is called a programming language.

What a programming language allows us to do is to write instructions for the computer in a more or less human readable form that can then be translated into something the computer can work with. The human readable instructions are typically called (you guessed it) - code! Each line of human readable code translates into thousands of detailed computer instructions. A special program (or set of programs) is used to do this translation - each computer language has its own translators, which are called compilers or interpreters. Once the translation is done the result is stored in some form such as a file or set of files (or in computer memory in some cases), and each time the software is run, the computer will follow the instructions and (hopefully) the program will do whatever it is that it is supposed to be doing.

Although it is often imagined that you have to be a genius to be able to write useful software, almost anyone who is computer savvy and has an interest in becoming a power user can learn to program. Most software is written by average people with specialized knowledge and skills. Mastering computer programming can be a lifelong pursuit, but gathering enough knowledge and skill to be able to do useful things isn't out of reach for anyone who knows how to use a computer and is willing to dedicate a little time... or maybe a lot of time, but still - it isn't out of reach.

There's no doubt almost every household has a computer - at least those located in a technologically-powered area. That being the case, a customer repair franchise is a good business.

Despite the growing number of companies incorporating computers into their over-all business operation, there is always a demand for computer repair, plus the fact that there are tons of IT related services all through out the modern market. This results to an opportunity to launch your very own computer repair franchise.

Picture yourself the businessman behind the premier provider of emergency response computer service in the country. Just make sure you deliver the technical and back-office support your clients need. Your service must also be around the clock and fast!

A computer repair franchise is a business that must be able to solve computer problems and provide solutions to the wide array of customer needs.

The key to having a successful computer repair franchise is by offering your customers the following emergency response services: emergency repairs, upgrades, data recovery, disaster recovery, virus prevention and instant support.

Plus, you could also offer the following business automation to your clients: distribution, accounting, manufacturing, installation, implementation, e-commerce, training, wireless and pager integration and web design.

In order to solve the modern computer problems faced by countless users today, a computer repair franchise must have the resources mentioned above. They must also be able to control their professional future and continue and keeping their customers satisfied.

A computer repair franchise can succeed as a business by having the assistance and support of the big players in the computer industry such as Microsoft, Novell, Cisco, Compaq, IBM and Macola.

The next step is to train your employees. In order for your computer repair franchise business to be one of the best in its field, your employees must know computer support like the back of their hands.

In order to maintain your business, you must have training programs involved in the concentration of activities taking place in sales department, dispatchers and customer service.

You must also be clear with the customer and employee legal contracts to avoid complications in the future which could lead to a possible downfall of your computer repair franchise.

Invoicing, purchasing and collection assistance are also crucial aspects in a computer repair franchise that deserves to get the owner's attention. By closely monitoring these, the businessman (you) will have a better understanding of what is going on with his company.

You must also be updated on the status of the services you provide your customers: web hosting, product expediting, shipping, receiving, quoting and vendor certification assistance.

Pricing recommendations, marketing, advertising, accounts payable and insurance assistance are the financial areas of the computer repair franchise. With proper budgeting, the business can boom even more despite the up and down costs.

Chances are if you are a computer pro, then you pretty much know the computer 101 and can easily share your knowledge to those who are in need of enlightening. Only the best computer professionals and organizations can provide top-notch computer repair franchise.

By delivering the goods - the best technology, the quickest support and a friendly network - your computer repair franchise can easily thrive in the industry. Amidst your competition, as long as you provide what the client needs then your business is here to stay.

If you have a PC, then you have most likely suffered from computer problems. Most people have accepted that there PC will eventually crash due to a virus or some massive error. However this is a myth. Your PC is built to last more than a decade. However you must keep well tuned for it to make its third birthday. Nevertheless, most people would rather buy a shiny new PC rather than spend an hour trying to fix computer problems on there 2 year lap top or desktop. After another two year after their purchase lack of maintenance will cause their new PC to lose its performance speed. Whats next you guess, $3000 Windows Vista Ready PC. This is known as the consumer vicious cycle.

Why have does your computer have problems?

Well, the biggest problem that your computer has is its owner. More than 80% of computer problems stem from neglecting to perform simple maintenance task such as cleaning your registry, emptying your cache files and updating software regularly. If these task a perform diligently. You would be reading this article from a five year old machine running on Windows 98 operating system. So, lets take a look at the top five computer problems and how to avoid them.

1. Computer has performance has slowed.

This is the number one complaint from most users. There are several reason why this has occurred. However, most can attributed to lack of maintenance. Fragmented data, corrupted registry, spyware, and load of unnecessary programs and services running can all eat away at your PC speed and performance. Manage your programs and cleaning your registry would easily award you a 30% gain in performance speed. Check out The 4 ways to speed up my computer

2. Lockup, freezes, and blue screens of death.

This is a another common computer problem. However, this particular issue is a bit more serious; therefore, it needs a few diagnostic steps. In most cases this problems are caused by spyware. To avoid this problem update your anti-spyware program daily. Having the most up to date signatures will help you avoid having a serious spyware problem. However, if you have concluded that your PC is spyware free. You should update your hardware drivers. The computer cannot communicate with various hardware components without an up to date driver. When it cannot find a driver, the CPU locks up. Also, increasing your virtual memory can also help to avoid freezes. Virtual Memory will allow to you get more use out your computer's RAM. Check the resource box for more info on the subject.

3. The computer spontaneously reboots or turn itself off.

This computer problem can be usually attributed to a hardware issue. Usually its the power supply is dying or in most cases a dirty or defective cooling fan. The computer trying to cool itself by automatically switching off. So, if you feel a bit of extra heat coming out the computer. Clean the fan and make sure it running properly. If your fan is functional, check your power supply. Also, you will be surprised how many people fail to make sure the cables are attached tightly. This be the cause of this particular computer problem.

4. Strange noises and vibrations.

This is almost totally a hardware issue. You computer is made up of thousands of parts. Its not unheard of that one of them can become unhinged. Overheating can cause expansion of wires and melt some sensitive. High pitch noises such as squealing or whining sounds can be cause electronic components. Whatever the reason, you conduct a small investigation. Remove the case and run the computer to discover the origin of the computer problem. If its not a simple matter such as a loose wire or fan issue, it may be time to call a computer tech.

5. Your home page, default search engine, or web browser has changed itself.

This is also known as "high-jacking". Spyware has been installed on your computer via social networking or from email link. This action has allowed spyware to install a java script into your web browser. The spyware then sends a message to your browser to change your user settings. For example change your home page to another web page.

As you have discovered from reading the article, the most common computer problems can be handle quite easily by simple maintenance of your PC. Net time you are suffering from computer problems. Take a few minutes to run some diagnostic test before rushing out to computer technical center claiming your PC is broken. When all you need to do was just make sure it was plugged in.

Computers and the Internet have come a long way since their inception. Living in the computer age means adapting to new technologies as they evolve. The ease and speed of communication that computer technology provides allows us to be more productive in every facet of our lives. That technology requires skilled computer professionals to design, maintain, and implement it.

What is it?

Computer training is divided into specialties including:

o Computer hardware

o Computer software

o Computer networking

o Web Development

Computer hardware refers to the actual physical components that comprise computers (processors, modems, keyboards, motherboards etc). Computer hardware engineers design, develop and maintain computer hardware. They may oversee the installation and manufacture of hardware. Due to the constant flux of the industry, continued education is required to keep up with trends and technology.

Computer software refers to the content that makes a computer work. Software is divided into three categories: Platform (such as operating systems i.e. Windows, Linux, and Macintosh OSX), Applications (Microsoft Office, games), and User-Written (templates, plug-ins, extensions). Computer software engineers, like their hardware counterparts, are required to continually learn new skills in conjunction with developing technology.

Computer networking refers to communication between a group or groups of computers. This includes LAN-local area network, MAN-metropolitan area network and WAN-wide area network. Computer network engineers work with software and hardware integration across a system of computers and servers. They deal with computer-to-computer interface and connect users to each other via private as well as public networks.

Web development refers to the building and implementation of websites (design, programming, server configuration) - Web page design is a subset that deals with user interface design, graphics, html and CSS (cascading style sheets). Web page designers are behooved to have good art skills as they will most likely be dealing with graphics, layout and Flash applications.

Why do it?

Other than the obvious passion for computers and technology, salary and job growth potential are excellent reasons to consider computer careers. Diversity of computer skills adds to marketability in the workforce. Many employers do not have time to train workers on basic skills and expect employees to be more than familiar with computers.

Who should do it?

If you have an aptitude or interest in math, science or art, and have strong problem solving and analytical skills you are a perfect candidate for a computer related career. Computer careers can be solitary work, but often require good communication skills. Systems administrators must know how to relay information to clients and coworkers in order to maintain order and efficiency in the system.

Education is available in many varieties; from certifications, certificate programs, associate's degree programs, bachelor's and even master's degree programs. Many professionals receive degrees in computer science and related fields, but still others are required to have specific certifications (for example MCSE-Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer or MCSA-Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator). Many industries do not require these specific certifications, only knowledge and experience of computer systems. When making a decision about education, research the jobs that interest you and find out just what the employers are looking for in a candidate. Why spend four years working on a bachelor's degree when a shorter certificate program may be all you need?

Where can I find out more?

For more information on careers, training, and working conditions see the Occupational Outlook handbook at the US Bureau of Labor Statistics site.

No problem if you are deliberately avoiding computers. There is no problem of course if you have thought that the computer mouse will bite you. But do you still want to stay unacquainted with computers? Don't you want to learn about computers?

In fact, I can assure you that if you once try to learn about computers you will find yourself very interested. You will find out that computers are not so bad and they are easy to use. You gain so many conveniences using your computer. With just one click of the mouse, you will be able to accomplish many of your daily tasks. For example, you can book tickets for a concert, you can do the shopping online, you can check anything of interest, apply for loans and credit cards, play games, chat with your friends and colleagues, and of course, send e-mails.

What's more, you will even be able to learn about computers online. There is so much information available on the Internet about how to learn about computers. It will be easy to find it, just open a browser, and enter your keywords "learn about computers" in a search engine.

I can tell you about many ways to learn about computers. People who want to learn about computers are able to attend computer courses at local colleges and libraries. There you can find the answer you have searched for. You will learn much about the basic and more advanced applications.

Another way to learn about computers is to buy a book or take it for free at the local library. Relaxing in your sofa, you can learn about computers with a "Dummy" book. There are books with basic information to books that give information for advanced programs and applications.

If you want to learn about computers, there is also another option. Online tutorials and informational websites give plenty of information and advices for people who want to learn about computers. For beginners, I will recommend a web site that gives good basic information about computers and the internet - http://www.externalharddrive.com. Here you will also find a section with most frequently asked questions. Such sites are available also for children like http://www.kids-online.net, and http://www.homeworkspot.com. These sites will combine work and fun so your kids will easily learn about computers.

Adults can learn about computers for the same time as children. It is true that kids pick it up quickly. This can happen to adults as well if they are not so "scared" of the computer. Soon you will be amazed with all the conveniences and facilitations that computers and Internet provide to you. Fifteen years ago, Internet was just a dream, now you can have it in your home. Computers can be found in every home just like televisions. Nowadays, computers are smaller and cheaper than ever.

Everyone on this planet uses computer for some reason. We all use computers as we constantly use our cell phones for example. Are you still hesitating? Learn about computers now!

Before you hire a computer repair technician to work on your computer, it's a good idea to ask yourself in advance, "Should I spend money repairing my current computer or should I instead use that money to purchase a new computer?"

The general rule of thumb is that if the cost of repairing your computer exceeds the current value of your computer, you are often better off investing in a new computer. Naturally the age of your computer bears a lot on whether it makes financial sense to repair it. There is no hard and fast rule in this respect. It is not only the age of your computer that is relevant, but also the value of your computer when you originally purchased it. If you bought a higher-end computer, its current value today will be more than if you had purchased a budget model.
The question is then how to determine the current value of your computer and the total cost of investing in a new computer.

eBay is a good way of determining the actual current value of your computer. Go to eBay.com, type your computer make and model into its search engine. The results you will get are for active auctions. What you want to do is click on "Completed Listings" in the left navigation column under "Preferences." Note that you will need an eBay account to access Completed Listings.

Completed Listings will give you a good idea of what your PC or laptop is currently selling for. Try to choose a completed auction that most closely corresponds to your computer, in terms of the amount of RAM, type of CPU, hard drive size, computer condition, etc. To get an accurate idea of what your computer is worth, be sure to compare apples to apples as much as possible.

Keep in mind that eBay is definitely a buyer's market and the figures you will get from eBay will usually be "low-balled." The actual value of your laptop in most every other market (like your local classifieds or Craigslist) will be generally higher. This is just something to bear in mind.

So now you have a decent idea as to the current value of your computer. Now we need to figure out the cost of investing in a new computer.

Entry-level laptop computers are selling new right now as low as $450. But we want to figure out the total cost of a new computer.

So let's say you found a new laptop for $450. But don't forget to tally up the "hidden" costs. Like:

1. Sales Tax if applicable

2. Shipping costs if applicable

3. The cost of transferring your data from your current computer to your new computer. This can be substantial if you need to hire a technician to do this for you, depending on the amount of data you need transferred.

4. Software installed on your current computer. Do you have the original CD-ROMs for the software installed on your current computer? Do you have the needed product keys to install your software on your new computer? Let's take Microsoft Office as an example. If you have lost the original CD-ROM for MS Office you will need to repurchase this software for your new computer. This can increase the cost of your new computer by $300 or more. Yikes.

One question I often ask my customers caught in this dilemma ("To Repair or Buy New?) is whether they were generally happy with their computer, in terms of performance and reliability, before it started experiencing issues. If the answer is, "Yes, it was a great computer," then it is probably worth the cost of the repair. If the answer is, "Not really, it was pretty slow and crashed a lot," then probably it is time to invest in a new computer.

Once again, there is no hard and fast rule as to whether you should invest in a repair or a new computer. It's a costs-benefits analysis that varies depending on many circumstances.

Subhash was a smart, innovative and self-starter, 23 yrs old guy who started a small business with his limited budget. He always wanted to curtail the business expenses smartly and wanted to opt for smarter investment techniques. In the initial phase of his business he noticed he faced some really expensive and severe challenges. He enlisted the top challenges and one of them was buying hardware for each employee along with the software and their licenses which he discovered were extremely taxing. Moreover he detected other problems like storage capacity, keeping updates for newest software and ongoing trends in the market. He felt with every new hire more software were needed, such problems worsened the situation and distracted him from the goals of his business. He researched and finally chose Cloud computing- A smart and user friendly choice which is easy on pocket too.

Flashback

In the earliest of days when Homo sapiens grew, they beautifully transformed themselves as humans from apes. Grew a little: understood basic needs- Food, clothing, shelter. Grew more- found mediums to fulfill those basic necessities. Then they started 'Developing', now they had farms for food, wells for water, mills for clothes, bricks for homes. Necessities give birth to utilities. Same scenario applies for business computing. One of the newest successful utility is Cloud Computing. Traditionally companies built their own in-house IT infrastructure catering to all the technical needs. But that involved expensive equipment and servers and installed everything locally - too much of hard work involved to make the ends meet! Things have changed. With the dawn of cloud computing a company can have a reliable and a safer business computing delivered like a utility service. We buy basic utilities for smooth functioning of our day to day lives, similarly we 'BUY' IT infrastructure as a service! Just spend for what we need and focus on the business not the technology.

Technically- What is cloud computing?

Cloud computing is the provision that allows the user to log into a web based service which hosts all the programs obligatory for completing the job. The cloud computing service provider runs everything ranging from emailing to word processing to different complex data analysis programs. The term 'cloud' actually refers to the network of computers which handle all the assigned respective tasks. Cloud computing service providers charge for the Maintenance and management of data inputs by clients. Cloud computing has emerged as the next big thing in the dome of application software, storage, hardware and platform flexibility that provides easy solutions to the most complex of things! The system favors all sizes of business but proves really fruitful for middle and small sized ones.

All one needs to avail the service is a basic computer system, web browser and the internet. It has become the lifeline of organizations who seek a simple solution to the compound problem of choosing and organizing software as per each employee's area of work. Have you ever noticed every internet user prominently benefits from cloud computing? The finest examples of cloud computing are Gmail, Amazon web services, Google applications where a browser helps the user to access the application whenever she/he feels like.

How it works?

Knowing how cloud computing works is interesting. The structural design can be categorized into two main sections: Front end and back end. Front end is controlled by the end user or client or say the web browser who uses the cloud services. Back end is the network of servers with any computer program and data storage system that runs, handles and maintains the cloud (Succinctly- The service provider).

Cloud has a centralized server administration system. The centralized server administers the system, balances and adjusts client supply and demands, monitors traffic and avoids congestion. This server follows a set of rules (protocol) known as middleware. Middleware as the name suggests, is the intermediary that allows networked computers to communicate with each other. Observing the other side of the process one can rename cloud computing as green computing because it helps in successful conservation of power energy.

Can Cloud computing be pocket friendly?

Cloud computing is cost effective too. Unlike traditional computing, the service condenses "Hard Costs" like cost of hardware, infrastructure, software licenses, and "Soft costs" such as IT staffing, troubleshooting, energy costs to run the servers, desktops and cooling the entire server room. As far as data maintenance costs are involved they too are quite reduced as they are maintained by the service provider (They perform the complete set of tasks; from running the cloud to storing data). The need to high storage hard drives can be snubbed away as all the data is stored on a remote computer.

Breakdown of the system can cause the owner a serious nervous breakdown because of high data recovery and system repair costs, not to ignore the data loss. In such situations, of course the show goes on because the data can be operated from the remote computer from any place!

Market is in the favor of buyer. Since past three years number of service providers has swelled. In this computing arena we have crucial players like Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Intel, and many others who are competing hard to build effective and impressive clouds for their clients..

Brownie points for Cloud computing users!

Cloud computing's pros do not end here. Databases in cloud computing are very dynamic and scalable which means that local computers no longer have to deal with hefty applications that almost kills the speed of the local computer, and most importantly hardware and software demands on the user's side decreases. But who plays the protagonist in the whole story of cloud computing? Answer is Data. The cloud not only builds, runs and maintains the data but it also secures it.

The data security is the top most priority in all the data operations of the cloud. Undoubtedly, the data is backed up at multiple locations. This is called redundancy of data- the most important attribute of cloud computing service. Another benefit of cloud computing is that the data accessibility is not limited to any particular hardware or storage device. The data can be accessed anytime and anywhere one needs to.

Is the right cloud chosen?

But there are some important concerns that one should not avoid before relying on the service. One of them is choosing the right form of cloud computing from:

ï‚· SAAS (Software As A Service): Where users rent application software and databases. It is commonly known as on demand software. For example: ADP (long time provider of payroll services), Google apps.

ï‚· IAAS (Infrastructure As A Service): Here the cloud providers provide their client with servers (as many as client needs) in exchange for the rent on each server. For example: "Amazon web services" is one of the most successful IAAS provider till date.

ï‚· PAAS (Platform As A Service): In this form of Cloud computing, users rent the complete package of servers plus the required software to use in them. For example: Salesforce.com is one of the much known PAAS provider.

As per the business needs, the user should tactfully choose the most appropriate form of cloud computing. Secondly, vital decision in selecting the right service provider proves fruitful in long run. One must make sure that the provider is reliable, is well-reputed for their customer service and satisfaction, and should have a proven track record in handling the respective business ventures. They should be prudently equipped with proper techniques where data is segregated in a clear and discrete manner. Data of different clients should be dealt with utmost care and confidentiality. Most importantly, cloud computing providers must be equipped with proper disaster recovery policies to deal with any unfortunate event in future. Cloud computing can be the apt choice which solves umpteen purposes in one go. It is the medium for getting the best performing system with the best value for money. The technology is worth embracing that tunes the business towards the set objectives. After all, in the arena when life is pacing at the speed of light, twenty four hours seem too precise to do the job. Business actually needs the undivided attention of the owner, technology can be taken care of by cloud computing service providers, then why risk energy, time and mental peace? When one just needs to spend money.

With the advancement in the field of technology over the years, the size of the computers has decreased to a great extent as compared to that of the computers which existed a decade ago. In the earlier days, the only option for a person to buy computer was the desktop computer in which the CPU, monitor, keyboard etc were different parts and had to be assembled together in order to form a desktop computer. but nowadays with the advancement in the technology, a person can buy a laptop or a tablet PC which has CPU, monitor, keyboard and mouse in once single machine only.

The size of the components in the laptops and the tablet computers have also been reduced to a great level. The size of the components in a laptop is generally smaller than the components that are present in a desktop computer. Tablet PCs comes under the category of the smallest computer systems that have been invented so far along with mini computers and handheld devices. Tablet PCs are used to combine the functionality of a smart phone along with a laptop or a desktop computer. People can use them for various purposes like businessmen can carry them almost anywhere for their work and an artist can use a tablet pc for drawing some complex art.

Mini computers also fall under the category of smallest computer systems which have been invented till date. A mini computer is a very powerful computer which can be compared to a mainframe or a supercomputer. A mini computer is a computer system which can handle many users at a single point of time. Mini computers are usually smaller in size as compared to a desktop computer but can handle many users at the same time. They usually run a multi core CPU system so that they can handle several tasks at the same time.

Smallest computer systems also include devices like netbooks and PDAs. Netbooks are machines which are similar to laptops but are much lighter in weight and much faster than a normal notebook. The components embedded into the netbook are much more advanced and fast than those present in a normal laptop. Small computers are very easy to carry to almost any place where a person goes and hence the person can do his work where ever he goes. The portability provided by small computers has helped people to resume their work from almost any part of the world without the loss of any data.

But due to the portability provided by these small computers, the people have become lazy. Moreover, the prices of the smallest computers are also very high and hence everybody cannot afford these small computers which are available in the market. Moreover, these small computers are battery operated and it is quite possible that the battery of the smallest computer would be out in the midst of a critical task running on the computer. in that case the progress of the whole task would be lost which would not happen in case of a desktop computer.

When it comes to a computer, there are so many terms like RAM, megahertz, gigabytes, etc. that people can find confusing. Having a better understanding of some of these terms can help you feel more comfortable using your computer, and ultimately get more out of it.

A lot of people I talk to seem to be apologetic about their lack of knowledge. It's too bad people feel that way; they really shouldn't.

What I tell them is that while they may not know as much as I do about computers, there's nothing wrong with that, and they probably know a lot of other things I don't know much about. All you need is someone who takes the time to explain things to you in a way that makes sense.

One term many people confuse is memory (also known as RAM), and hard drive storage space.

RAM stands for Random Access Memory (don't worry, you don't need to remember that!). It is a temporary working space the computer uses to get work done, which gets emptied when the computer is turned off. Think of it like a work bench or table. You have a project you're working on and you do your project on the bench and when you're done, you clear it off.

The hard drive is the main place your computer uses to store information. It looks like a rectangular metal box about 3.5" wide, which contains a non-removable disk. It is the disk inside the drive which stores everything.

Think of it as a set of shelves where you store the tools or materials for your project -- when you want to work on something you choose the things you need from the shelves, put them on the bench and work on the project. This is like when you run a program; the computer loads the program from the hard drive into memory.

So the larger the shelves, the more you can store -- i.e. the more programs you can have installed, the more songs or pictures or videos you can save on your computer.

Many people accidentally call their computer (the big box-like thing hooked up to the screen) a hard drive, but this is based on a misunderstanding. Both RAM and the hard drive are parts located inside of the computer, and most people never actually see these parts.

Most people with a computer made in the last few years have far bigger hard drives than they'll ever use. Few people ever fill them up, unless they are keeping a lot of large files such as music or pictures, or especially video files. Saving complete movies on your computer can really eat up space very quickly.

If someone tells you need more memory, or your computer gives you an error message about being low on memory, this usually means you don't have enough RAM. This can slow your computer down drastically.

Think of the bench idea again: if your bench is very small, you can't fit everything you need on it to get your work done, so you're constantly wasting time moving stuff off and back onto the bench to get your work done, if you can work at all.

Both RAM and hard drive space are measured with the same terms: kilobytes (KB), megabytes (MB), and gigabytes (GB). This may be one reason people confuse the two terms.

So why is it that you buy a computer one year that has a lot of RAM, and two or three years go by, why do people tell you it doesn't have enough memory? This is because each year the average size of software, and the amount of memory it needs, gets larger.

It's as if the tools you use on your workbench keep growing every year so you eventually have to get a larger bench.

If your computer seems to be running more slowly recently, or you've been having odd errors, it could be that you need to upgrade your memory, which doesn't cost much to do and can add life to your computer. It's not a cure-all for a slow computer, but it can help.

That's usually how it starts. You hear an unfamiliar noise when you turn on your computer. Or, you may be working along and all of a sudden, your computer stops responding. Most people just ignore either one of these signs that something is amiss. They reboot or ignore the noise.

And therein lies the biggest problem. If the user immediately backs up all critical data when these events occur, replacing the component (there's only a few components with moving parts on a computer - the power supply fan and the hard drive are the two major suspects when odd noises occur) is just time consuming. But if the user fails to heed these signs, then the real fun starts. Recovering data from a damaged drive is not for the faint at heart. Now if the drive is just corrupted, then there several ways to recover the data with software utilities. But our discussion today is about physically damaged hard drives.

The first question I usually ask on a service call (I run a computer service company) is do you have current backups of all your data? When they say no (about 75% of the time), the first thing I do is either instruct them on how to backup or if I'm onsite I do it for them. Once there is a verified backup of data, the rest is easy.

A qualified technician has about a 98% chance of retrieving data from a hard drive if there is no physical damage. A normal user with some help (info, tools, or both) has about a 90% chance. But depending on the situation, it can be very frustrating and time consuming. However, if there is physical damage, forget it. Unless the data is worth $1000's, don't bother since that's what the bill could be to recover the data.

Soapbox on. Before I get into the troubleshooting aspects, let me impress upon you the importance of having current backups of all of your data. If you have current backups, no computer problem will cause you permanent damage. The best defense against computer failure of any kind is backing up your data on a frequent basis. The way I approach it is that if I've spent over an hour working on some project, I backup as soon as I finish. I'm lazy, I don't like to do anything twice, so I backup often. OK, I'll get off the Soapbox now.

Depending on what you do on your computer (and what you store there like photos, movies, financial data, etc.) backing up is the best way to protect yourself. There are so many easy ways to back up these days there is absolutely no excuse for not doing so often. USB memory sticks and drives, DVD and CD writers (although there has been a lot written lately about both of these media not being reliable for more than 2 years), even 1.44 disks can be used if you have the patience and individual files can fit.

My first choice is a USB drive since you can purchase a large drive for under $75 these days. Many come with one click software that makes backing up your data a snap. There are many ways to backup with incremental (to go back to a certain point in time) small backups daily and then a full backup weekly. But I digress since this article is about troubleshooting and not backing up data.

Back to the strange noise coming from your computer. Two items to check first, the power supply fan and the hard drive (there could be a third choice on the newer computers since most also have a fan on the processor chip). Both have bearings and spin at high speeds. You normally can determine if the noise is coming from one or the other. Replacing the power supply is not a big deal but can be laborious depending on your computer model and case design. If you're not handy with a screw driver and understand a little basic structure of positive and negative connections, take it to a local computer repair shop. It's not difficult but it is easy to make the wrong connection and you can fry your motherboard and everything attached if something goes wrong.

So, you've checked the power supply fan and the noise is coming from somewhere else. There are several items inside the hard drive that can cause noise but I won't bore you with the details. Just suffice to say once the noise starts it's time for a replacement. Mean time failure these days is 3-5 years on most units. But remember that is based on some daily use value, so it can happen at any time.

The easiest way to replace the hard drive is to buy the exact model, which nobody does since the price point constantly goes down. So instead of a 20 gig drive (that you never filled up), you go for the 120 gig replacement drive. Along with the drive is a CD that has the installation routine for most computers. You have to open the case (make sure the computer is not only off but the power cord is disconnected from the back of the computer) and remove the old drive, carefully replacing the connections in the same manner as the old drive on the new drive. There are only two, one power and one that connects the drive to the motherboard.

Once you have the drive hooked up and the case back together you're ready to use the installation CD from the drive manufacturer. If your computer bios is set to boot off the CD (which most are since many don't even have a floppy drive any more) you boot up once and get an error (we need to have power to open the CD unit) and open the CD and place the hard drive installation CD in and close it. Now you reboot and the CD will usually boot up with a menu that allows you to configure the machine and often will ask you for your OS (normally WinXP) CD to start the installation. And therein lies the first possible snafu. You don't have your WinXP installation CD since your computer came with WinXP on the hard drive.

Don't worry, it's a slow down but not an insurmountable problem. You now get to call or go to the website of your computer manufacturer and ask for a set of restore/install CDs. They normally will charge you 5-10 bucks for shipping but will gladly provide the CDs. Make sure you tell them your exact model of computer so you get all the correct video, sound card, and other drivers for your computer. This is very important!

Most computer manufacturers have this down to a science and the CDs have everything you need. You simply boot on the first CD and the restore/install process is fairly automated with you just answering a few questions. This entire process takes about 90 minutes and don't forget that you need to install any applications that you installed after you bought the computer.

One very important detail you need to address is to make sure you install Virus Protection software. Make sure you install this before you even connect to the Internet. I can't tell you how many times I've seen a computer hit within seconds of coming online, and if you don't have protection installed you get banged immediately. Also install any WinXP updates by going to the Microsoft website and clicking on Windows Update on the left side of the opening page. Let it do it's magic and install all critical updates.

Now you can copy back all of your data to your new hard drive and now you are back up and running. Now for all of you that are reading this article and have not backed up your data, go do it right now. You'll be very glad you did just in case disaster strikes.