Have anyone ever considered the fact that some gadgets would be there to take care of his steps? Will it be possible to be in touch with a technology that would be functioning every moment you make your steps? I love to wonder about these silly questions sometimes and my minds feel with several brand names of every gadget that I imagine of. And when it comes to a pedometer, I stuck in one name since I have been using Omron HJ-112 Digital Pocket Pedometer for a considerable portion of time. I found it as the ultimate pedometer even for a moderately health conscious person. It's a uniquely intriguing gadget.
After using lots of other pedometers and experiencing a series of mishaps like fragility and inaccurate reading; I almost discarded the idea of using one. When one of my school friends referred me Omron HJ-112 Digital Pocket Pedometer; I felt a pang of reluctance. I was wrong and it made a huge difference amongst the other so-called pedometers around. It goes without saying, that unlike other pedometers, Omron HJ-112 shows continuously exact reading even if you just leave it in your bag as if it doesn't exist.
As from the self-boosting and health inspiring perception, Omron HJ-112 Digital Pocket Pedometer served me as a physiotherapist who incessantly reminded me to be a bit more active in every step and every step made me energetic and active. I felt that every move counts and every motion of my hip is an invaluable act of my physical well being. Omron HJ-112 Digital Pocket Pedometer not only shows the number of steps but it meticulously calculates your walking speed and calories that burned. If all these features are ignored, this Omron devise stands alone with one feature which is 'accuracy' unlike all other unprofessional and cheap pedometers.
Apart from increasing physical fitness, one can get a vivid picture of one's entire health circle from the memory of this devise. Omron HJ-112 Digital Pocket Pedometer keeps a record of 7 days of activities which I personally found most useful and interesting. I transferred all the records from the devise to my laptop and when I glanced at the statistics, I really felt like working out every minute. You don't show it to people by hanging it somewhere in your body or attaching like a music player. Omron HJ-112 Digital Pocket Pedometer just asks you to carry it and that's all it takes.
I am sharing the mesmerizing satisfaction of this gadget that I experienced and my chance of using another brand of pedometer in future is negative. If you care for your health, if you want to be a gainer of true scientific achievements in daily trivial life; you should get one Omron HJ-112 Digital Pocket Pedometer right now. The functions it serves are simple yet it is a charismatic little thing which makes your every step meaningful.
CompTIA A+ certification validates the latest skills needed by today's computer support professionals. It is an international, vendor-neutral certification recognized by major hardware and software vendors, distributors
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
How to Fix PPLINK Unit by Rewrite Its Operating System
Many people must use the PPLINK unit on their DM500. However, do you know how to repair it when its red light is on? Before we talk about the problem, let's have a look at a story happened on a satellite TV fan.
User W is a super fan of satellite TV, he has used his satellite terminal to receive satellite signal from all kind of satellites. However, one day he turned on DM500 after he got up, he found the machine could not work and the red light on PPLINK unit inside the machine is continuous on. W changed the SIM card from the PPLINK unit, but the unit was still giving out alert information. He then came up with the idea of asking netizens for help. Unfortunately, he found that many fans who once had such a problem all bought a new unit without thinking to mend the unit. W has already rewritten the operating system of DM500 for many times, however, he had never rewritten the supporting software for PPLINK unit before.
Of course, Mr. W didn't give up. He opened the PPLINK unit first and found it is a mobile phone circuit board. He searched the internet to find that the circuit board is adapted from SIEMENS C60 phone which supports operating system rewriting. W began the rewrite process form downloading Freia 15 and file SIMENS C60A LG8 V24 - 00200000.FLS. Freia is used to rewrite software for SIEMENS mobile phone. Then he copied the EEPROM1 and BOOTCORE for PPLINK unit. In this step, he first connected the unit to computer by using the COM port. Then he chose the Configuration Functions on Freia to set the parameter of the unit. Thirdly, he chose the Read Flash from Phone in Main Functions to copy the EEPROM1 and BOOTCORE.
What the users have to pay attention is that whether to plug in the power supply should dependent on the information gave out by the software. After the copy process, he began to rewrite the system. He got into the WRITE FLASH TO PHONE interface from the Main Functions menu and opened the file SIEMENS C60A LG8 V24 - 00200000.FLS. Having chose the FIRMWARE function and plugged the power supply in for PPLINK unit; he began to wait for the software. After about 30 minutes, the whole system had been complete written into the unit and he began to write the EEPROM1 and BOOTCORE copy into them. Then, his PPLINK unit is resurged!
Here is no need to talk about how to repair the PPLINK unit anymore since the story had taught you how to do that thoroughly. If you meet such a problem as the mentioned user, you can fix it using the same way.
User W is a super fan of satellite TV, he has used his satellite terminal to receive satellite signal from all kind of satellites. However, one day he turned on DM500 after he got up, he found the machine could not work and the red light on PPLINK unit inside the machine is continuous on. W changed the SIM card from the PPLINK unit, but the unit was still giving out alert information. He then came up with the idea of asking netizens for help. Unfortunately, he found that many fans who once had such a problem all bought a new unit without thinking to mend the unit. W has already rewritten the operating system of DM500 for many times, however, he had never rewritten the supporting software for PPLINK unit before.
Of course, Mr. W didn't give up. He opened the PPLINK unit first and found it is a mobile phone circuit board. He searched the internet to find that the circuit board is adapted from SIEMENS C60 phone which supports operating system rewriting. W began the rewrite process form downloading Freia 15 and file SIMENS C60A LG8 V24 - 00200000.FLS. Freia is used to rewrite software for SIEMENS mobile phone. Then he copied the EEPROM1 and BOOTCORE for PPLINK unit. In this step, he first connected the unit to computer by using the COM port. Then he chose the Configuration Functions on Freia to set the parameter of the unit. Thirdly, he chose the Read Flash from Phone in Main Functions to copy the EEPROM1 and BOOTCORE.
What the users have to pay attention is that whether to plug in the power supply should dependent on the information gave out by the software. After the copy process, he began to rewrite the system. He got into the WRITE FLASH TO PHONE interface from the Main Functions menu and opened the file SIEMENS C60A LG8 V24 - 00200000.FLS. Having chose the FIRMWARE function and plugged the power supply in for PPLINK unit; he began to wait for the software. After about 30 minutes, the whole system had been complete written into the unit and he began to write the EEPROM1 and BOOTCORE copy into them. Then, his PPLINK unit is resurged!
Here is no need to talk about how to repair the PPLINK unit anymore since the story had taught you how to do that thoroughly. If you meet such a problem as the mentioned user, you can fix it using the same way.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Computer Repair And Ethical Considerations For Technicians
Unless you are a technician, computer repair is something you will almost definitely need at some point in your life, unless you are unfortunate enough to live a life without these wonderful machines. Windows PCs in particular need a lot of help because the market share for the Windows platform is so much bigger than all others combined, that it only makes sense to make viruses that attack Windows. The other problem is that viruses are getting smarter, and so is the marketing around them. It use to be that once you learned what a virus-laden website looked like, or which types of internet searches normally yielded malicious results, you could avoid them; not anymore. Now you can get a virus on Facebook with a headline such as "Friend X: I love this website, check it out!" By the time you check it out you have the virus too.
There are many professions in which having a high standard of ethics is extremely important: law, medicine, high level accounting consultants, etc. When professionals belong to a field in which their knowledge vastly outweighs the knowledge of the average member of society, they have an increased responsibility to do the right thing, and basically avoid ripping people off. There are moral, ethical, legal and enlightened self-interest debates to be made supporting this idea. When it comes down to it, you should down the right thing in business because: 1) it's just right, 2) you have a better chance of avoiding broken laws 3) the quality of your service will shine through and the word of mouth you generate from providing excellent customer service will ensure your future success. The problem is, most people don't think of computer repair technicians as the type of people who are required to have high ethical standards. While fixing one's computer, your job is not as important as keeping them out of jail, or preventing them from dying through medicine. It is possible however, to take a lot more money out of their pocket by overcharging and making decisions that you know are bad for them in the long-run. Most people see computers as a necessity and will pay anything to get their computer back. Taking hard-earned money out of people's hands is wrong no matter how you look at it, and as mentioned before, there are built-in advantages to maximizing value for the client.
Perhaps there needs to be a national exam for computer repair certification? Maybe that certification needs to come with an oath to ensure that technicians do not violate the trust of their clients. If the end it comes down to this: if you are a client, be weary of being overcharged and if you are a tech, please resist the urge to overcharge, and refuse to say that you understand a problem when you know that you really don't understand.
There are many professions in which having a high standard of ethics is extremely important: law, medicine, high level accounting consultants, etc. When professionals belong to a field in which their knowledge vastly outweighs the knowledge of the average member of society, they have an increased responsibility to do the right thing, and basically avoid ripping people off. There are moral, ethical, legal and enlightened self-interest debates to be made supporting this idea. When it comes down to it, you should down the right thing in business because: 1) it's just right, 2) you have a better chance of avoiding broken laws 3) the quality of your service will shine through and the word of mouth you generate from providing excellent customer service will ensure your future success. The problem is, most people don't think of computer repair technicians as the type of people who are required to have high ethical standards. While fixing one's computer, your job is not as important as keeping them out of jail, or preventing them from dying through medicine. It is possible however, to take a lot more money out of their pocket by overcharging and making decisions that you know are bad for them in the long-run. Most people see computers as a necessity and will pay anything to get their computer back. Taking hard-earned money out of people's hands is wrong no matter how you look at it, and as mentioned before, there are built-in advantages to maximizing value for the client.
Perhaps there needs to be a national exam for computer repair certification? Maybe that certification needs to come with an oath to ensure that technicians do not violate the trust of their clients. If the end it comes down to this: if you are a client, be weary of being overcharged and if you are a tech, please resist the urge to overcharge, and refuse to say that you understand a problem when you know that you really don't understand.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
The secret behind the Google look!
Many observers feel that one of the biggest reasons for the success of Google's search is its clean interface, comprising mainly the Google logo, a search box and a few buttons - a far cry from the cluttered look of other search websites. However, the bare look of Google was not a deliberate design decision.
The fact was that the founders of Google, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, did not know HTML and so were forced to keep things simple! Of course, their decision has paid rich dividends since today, although Google has an array of programmers who could create a far more jazzy interface, its look remains as clean and uncluttered as ever. Which just goes to prove that, sometimes, ignorance can be a boon.
Mind you, even the ‘clean look' had its problems. During early tests, Page and Brin noted that testers kept staring at the page even after it had loaded. When they asked the testers why they were not using the service, the answer they got was: "We are waiting for the rest of the page to load." No one believed that a home page could be so plain and simple. Google tackled that by placing a Google copyright message at the bottom of the page to act as an end-of-page marker.
The fact was that the founders of Google, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, did not know HTML and so were forced to keep things simple! Of course, their decision has paid rich dividends since today, although Google has an array of programmers who could create a far more jazzy interface, its look remains as clean and uncluttered as ever. Which just goes to prove that, sometimes, ignorance can be a boon.
Mind you, even the ‘clean look' had its problems. During early tests, Page and Brin noted that testers kept staring at the page even after it had loaded. When they asked the testers why they were not using the service, the answer they got was: "We are waiting for the rest of the page to load." No one believed that a home page could be so plain and simple. Google tackled that by placing a Google copyright message at the bottom of the page to act as an end-of-page marker.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Time to Back Up Like You Mean It
Local, external drives, a single drive NAS, and even the Cloud may not be enough for today's data-hungry consumer.
I believe in backup. Not so much in backup software, which I find annoying and tedious, but I believe in the concept of making one or more duplicates of critical files in a safe and secure place (or places). This is how I ended up with my own Network Attached Storage Device (NAS). It's also how I learned that a single drive, whether in a PC or in a NAS, is not an effective backup strategy.
Let me, ahem, back up.
I know, NAS and its affiliated technologies are not primarily considered backup solutions. Many people, like me, use them that way, but it's the accompanying software that really turns them into backup destinations. I'm constantly trying backup software solutions, but most fail me. So I still back up the old-fashioned way—manual drag and drops when I need to.
For years, I used a variety of connected external storage options to save files from old PCs, critical files, email backups and overly large files (video) outside my regular PC. Some of these files counted as true backup and others were space-saving measures for my primary computer's typically limited hard drive. I've used everything from an array of 3.5-inch floppies to Zip and JAZ drives to small, USB-based external drives with hundreds of Gigs of space. Early backup strategies on obsolete media failed for obvious reasons; either I no longer had the drives to read them, or operating systems changed so much that the drives became unreadable.
The problem was soon compounded by the fact that my home expanded from a single computer to three (or more). Soon everyone was collecting image and data files, and all of them needed backup. I finally realized that the only smart way to handle this was a NAS. Iomega's Home Media Network Hard Drive looked like a good, easy-to-implement solution. A couple of years ago, it cost around $200 for a half terabyte of storage. I hooked it up to the router in my basement, did a little set-up, and then backed up most of our media and data files to the drive. On occasion, I would add a new batch of photos or video, and I also used it as a media server so I could play all of our music through a variety of network-attached devices.
The drive never shuts off and hums quietly in my basement. Any one of us on our Windows 7 Homegroup network can access it at will. One day, however, I couldn't access it at all. I went to the basement and noticed that the white and blue activity lights on the drive were dark. The drive was still running (I could hear the fan), but the NAS was dead to the network. I unplugged the device and plugged it back in again to reboot it. I even tried connecting it directly to my main PC. Nothing worked, and I started to panic a little.
Most of what existed on the NAS also existed on my main PC, but not everything. Each time we bought a new computer and discarded an old one, I'd take all the system's old files and archive them on the NAS. Plus, most of the HD video I captured was too big for my main PC's hard drive, so they only lived on this network drive. I feared the worst—hard drive corruption and loss of data.
It occurred to me that this was a position I thought I'd never be in with an NAS. Such devices seem more hardcore and invincible than standard in-your-PC hard drives. This was a stupid notion. The number one rule of computing is: Hard Drives fail (Okay, it's not number one, but it's certainly in the top 5).
I enlisted the help of Iomega. The company graciously agreed to look at my NAS and found that the hard drive was, in fact, okay, but something had gone haywire with the operating system. Fortunately, the OS and my data were in two separate partitions and most, if not all of it, seemed to have survived the malfunction.
This knowledge and the recovery of my data gave me some comfort, but it also revealed the glaring error in my own backup strategy. A NAS, which is little more than a single drive with some wicked networking skills, is not enough. And this, my friends, is a lesson for us all.
What We Need
A few years ago Microsoft and HP tried to interest consumers in the concept of home servers. Consumers never warmed up to the idea, and HP and Microsoft have largely given up on pushing the it. That is a shame, because I think consumers need home servers and backup education today more than ever. You see, my problem is not unique. Having too many computers, system turnover, overly large files, and a need for central access to media data are all problems that could be fixed with a home server and, more importantly, one that features copious amounts of networked attached storage.
The problem, though, is that consumers like me (and anyone who's concerned about protecting their local data, really) actually need more than this. We need RAID storage. RAID or Redundant Array of Independent Disks is, essentially, an expansion of NAS technology. So you get networking, and instead of one drive, you get a series of two or more drives that can be set up to either duplicate each other (mirroring) or spread the data across the drives—most RAIDs are set up in the former way. With some RAID systems, adding a new drive of any size and configuration is as easy as opening a door and sliding the drive into an open bay. If you're confused about the various "levels" of RAID, you're not alone; for a primer, check out Samara Lynn's RAID Levels Explained.
It's a great technology. The problem, though, is that it's typically reserved for business, and companies like D-Link, Linksys, Synology, and Iomega usually target small, medium, and home-based businesses for their RAID products. (There are some poorly marketed consumer-focused products). That has to change. I believe RAID-capable storage devices/NAS are about to become a necessity for the home. They offer affordable, local, scalable storage and enough redundancy to protect most users from data loss. In my situation, having a RAID-based system would mean that I could pull the bad drive where my data resides and add a new drive in its place. Many systems can automatically re-create the RAID array with little user interference, thereby restoring the data that was on the failed drive.
Realistically, consumers are still uncomfortable with the idea of Home NASes, and a basement RAID may seem a bridge too far. RAIDs are considerably more expensive than typical external storage drives or even NASes. Consumers still don't understand the need and most of the companies in the space are doing little marketing or advertising to help them understand. Plus, the industry appears to have decided that the best solution for consumer data protection and backup is the cloud. Perhaps that's true, but existing solutions are far from bulletproof. I doubt the cloud is ready to handle all of our data protection needs. It can take hours to backup to the cloud, and once you do, you are forever tied to that service. If you decide to switch for a cheaper deal elsewhere, you'll likely have to download and migrate all that data, which sounds like a nightmare to me.
For the time being, I still believe local storage is the best solution. Now it's time to upgrade that from a bunch of disparate storage solutions to an extensible, local storage plan that reflects the reality of our data creation and consumption needs.
I believe in backup. Not so much in backup software, which I find annoying and tedious, but I believe in the concept of making one or more duplicates of critical files in a safe and secure place (or places). This is how I ended up with my own Network Attached Storage Device (NAS). It's also how I learned that a single drive, whether in a PC or in a NAS, is not an effective backup strategy.
Let me, ahem, back up.
I know, NAS and its affiliated technologies are not primarily considered backup solutions. Many people, like me, use them that way, but it's the accompanying software that really turns them into backup destinations. I'm constantly trying backup software solutions, but most fail me. So I still back up the old-fashioned way—manual drag and drops when I need to.
For years, I used a variety of connected external storage options to save files from old PCs, critical files, email backups and overly large files (video) outside my regular PC. Some of these files counted as true backup and others were space-saving measures for my primary computer's typically limited hard drive. I've used everything from an array of 3.5-inch floppies to Zip and JAZ drives to small, USB-based external drives with hundreds of Gigs of space. Early backup strategies on obsolete media failed for obvious reasons; either I no longer had the drives to read them, or operating systems changed so much that the drives became unreadable.
The problem was soon compounded by the fact that my home expanded from a single computer to three (or more). Soon everyone was collecting image and data files, and all of them needed backup. I finally realized that the only smart way to handle this was a NAS. Iomega's Home Media Network Hard Drive looked like a good, easy-to-implement solution. A couple of years ago, it cost around $200 for a half terabyte of storage. I hooked it up to the router in my basement, did a little set-up, and then backed up most of our media and data files to the drive. On occasion, I would add a new batch of photos or video, and I also used it as a media server so I could play all of our music through a variety of network-attached devices.
The drive never shuts off and hums quietly in my basement. Any one of us on our Windows 7 Homegroup network can access it at will. One day, however, I couldn't access it at all. I went to the basement and noticed that the white and blue activity lights on the drive were dark. The drive was still running (I could hear the fan), but the NAS was dead to the network. I unplugged the device and plugged it back in again to reboot it. I even tried connecting it directly to my main PC. Nothing worked, and I started to panic a little.
Most of what existed on the NAS also existed on my main PC, but not everything. Each time we bought a new computer and discarded an old one, I'd take all the system's old files and archive them on the NAS. Plus, most of the HD video I captured was too big for my main PC's hard drive, so they only lived on this network drive. I feared the worst—hard drive corruption and loss of data.
It occurred to me that this was a position I thought I'd never be in with an NAS. Such devices seem more hardcore and invincible than standard in-your-PC hard drives. This was a stupid notion. The number one rule of computing is: Hard Drives fail (Okay, it's not number one, but it's certainly in the top 5).
I enlisted the help of Iomega. The company graciously agreed to look at my NAS and found that the hard drive was, in fact, okay, but something had gone haywire with the operating system. Fortunately, the OS and my data were in two separate partitions and most, if not all of it, seemed to have survived the malfunction.
This knowledge and the recovery of my data gave me some comfort, but it also revealed the glaring error in my own backup strategy. A NAS, which is little more than a single drive with some wicked networking skills, is not enough. And this, my friends, is a lesson for us all.
What We Need
A few years ago Microsoft and HP tried to interest consumers in the concept of home servers. Consumers never warmed up to the idea, and HP and Microsoft have largely given up on pushing the it. That is a shame, because I think consumers need home servers and backup education today more than ever. You see, my problem is not unique. Having too many computers, system turnover, overly large files, and a need for central access to media data are all problems that could be fixed with a home server and, more importantly, one that features copious amounts of networked attached storage.
The problem, though, is that consumers like me (and anyone who's concerned about protecting their local data, really) actually need more than this. We need RAID storage. RAID or Redundant Array of Independent Disks is, essentially, an expansion of NAS technology. So you get networking, and instead of one drive, you get a series of two or more drives that can be set up to either duplicate each other (mirroring) or spread the data across the drives—most RAIDs are set up in the former way. With some RAID systems, adding a new drive of any size and configuration is as easy as opening a door and sliding the drive into an open bay. If you're confused about the various "levels" of RAID, you're not alone; for a primer, check out Samara Lynn's RAID Levels Explained.
It's a great technology. The problem, though, is that it's typically reserved for business, and companies like D-Link, Linksys, Synology, and Iomega usually target small, medium, and home-based businesses for their RAID products. (There are some poorly marketed consumer-focused products). That has to change. I believe RAID-capable storage devices/NAS are about to become a necessity for the home. They offer affordable, local, scalable storage and enough redundancy to protect most users from data loss. In my situation, having a RAID-based system would mean that I could pull the bad drive where my data resides and add a new drive in its place. Many systems can automatically re-create the RAID array with little user interference, thereby restoring the data that was on the failed drive.
Realistically, consumers are still uncomfortable with the idea of Home NASes, and a basement RAID may seem a bridge too far. RAIDs are considerably more expensive than typical external storage drives or even NASes. Consumers still don't understand the need and most of the companies in the space are doing little marketing or advertising to help them understand. Plus, the industry appears to have decided that the best solution for consumer data protection and backup is the cloud. Perhaps that's true, but existing solutions are far from bulletproof. I doubt the cloud is ready to handle all of our data protection needs. It can take hours to backup to the cloud, and once you do, you are forever tied to that service. If you decide to switch for a cheaper deal elsewhere, you'll likely have to download and migrate all that data, which sounds like a nightmare to me.
For the time being, I still believe local storage is the best solution. Now it's time to upgrade that from a bunch of disparate storage solutions to an extensible, local storage plan that reflects the reality of our data creation and consumption needs.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Freeware Notes Address Book Converter For Limited Conversion
Freeware Notes address book converter allows limited conversion of Notes address book contacts in any other format. NSF files are the database files of Lotus Notes and it creates a separate NSF file for each component i.e. separate database file of mails, separate database file of contacts, etc. The database file of Notes Address book is the Names.nsf file and it stores complete information of NSF file like personal, advance, business, briefcase etc, along with all the fields like first name, last name, email, company, job title, city, zip and many more.
The Conversion of Notes address book can be done to MULTIPLE formats like PST, vCard, and Excel.
• Notes address book conversion to Outlook PST is popularly done due to change in business environments because Outlook and Notes are the widely used email clients.
• Notes Address Book Conversion to Excel is done to arrange all the contacts in alphabetical order and Excel also provides a Find option for quick search of a particular contacts.
• Notes address book conversion to vCard is done because vCard format supports all email applications, all operating systems, business phones, gadgets and many more.
So, if you are a Lotus Notes user and you need a Freeware Notes Address Book Converter then, Notes Address book converter by SysTools is the one for you because this freeware version of Notes Address Book converter can Convert 15 contacts of Notes Address Book. This freeware version is made to show the conversion process therefore, it can convert 15 contacts only and it works fluently in all the editions of Windows.
The Conversion of Notes address book can be done to MULTIPLE formats like PST, vCard, and Excel.
• Notes address book conversion to Outlook PST is popularly done due to change in business environments because Outlook and Notes are the widely used email clients.
• Notes Address Book Conversion to Excel is done to arrange all the contacts in alphabetical order and Excel also provides a Find option for quick search of a particular contacts.
• Notes address book conversion to vCard is done because vCard format supports all email applications, all operating systems, business phones, gadgets and many more.
So, if you are a Lotus Notes user and you need a Freeware Notes Address Book Converter then, Notes Address book converter by SysTools is the one for you because this freeware version of Notes Address Book converter can Convert 15 contacts of Notes Address Book. This freeware version is made to show the conversion process therefore, it can convert 15 contacts only and it works fluently in all the editions of Windows.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Color Laser Printer or Inkjet - Points to Consider When Choosing a Printer
Computers are becoming commonplace in homes and offices worldwide. The problem is that most people know so little about their computers, that when something goes wrong, they do not know how to begin the process of solving problems.
The Ugly Truth is that we could decide to call tech support phone number that came with your computer, but you never know what you get at the other end of the phone. You could literally spend hours just waiting to get to a technician, and then having people on the line, there is only a good chance that they will not have a clue, as it will find its solution.
I know this because I work in computer technical support call center. You will be amazed that they can pass as a technician! For most new employees, only pre-qualifying the knowledge you need to be able to navigate the current Windows operating system.
Management believes that if you move the Windows, then you can move the database to dig out a solution. The problem with this kind of thinking is that the person on the call center is often lost to find a solution that is not in the database.
Of course, all frontline help desk technicians are on call, but in my own experience, help desk jobs are allocated based on politics rather than technical skills. We ended up with some real idiots on our help desk. Call them once or twice, and finally decide to stand a stronger chance of success on his own, but you will be able to accomplish going upstream in the support systems.
Commercial Printing Support
Fortunately, computer printers that do not break often. But when that happens, solving problems can be a painful process.
There are some basics that can cover for a simplified process for resolving problems.
Be advised that if you ever crack the case of a printer, you should darn sure to switch off the power before you do. Printers that are connected to a power supply can actually charge you with enough current to kill you. Do not take risks with your life.
Long before you reach the point of trying to crack the case to the internals, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take.
Always check the power supply to see if you have a good, solid relationship. I know that seems the most logical step to take, but you might be surprised how often powerless machine discovered that the machine is unplugged.
* If your printer has the power to it, and then switch the device off and then turn it on again. Each printer has a brain inside it. Removing power from the unit temporarily will force the computer chip inside the printer to reset. Often times, this will solve any problems.
* Make sure your printer cartridge is properly seated. Make sure the container is in the printer the way the manufacturer intended.
* Use the printer's "self-test" feature. The manufacturer has included this will help to eliminate common printing problems.
These four steps will help you to overcome the problems commonly associated with the printer.
The Ugly Truth is that we could decide to call tech support phone number that came with your computer, but you never know what you get at the other end of the phone. You could literally spend hours just waiting to get to a technician, and then having people on the line, there is only a good chance that they will not have a clue, as it will find its solution.
I know this because I work in computer technical support call center. You will be amazed that they can pass as a technician! For most new employees, only pre-qualifying the knowledge you need to be able to navigate the current Windows operating system.
Management believes that if you move the Windows, then you can move the database to dig out a solution. The problem with this kind of thinking is that the person on the call center is often lost to find a solution that is not in the database.
Of course, all frontline help desk technicians are on call, but in my own experience, help desk jobs are allocated based on politics rather than technical skills. We ended up with some real idiots on our help desk. Call them once or twice, and finally decide to stand a stronger chance of success on his own, but you will be able to accomplish going upstream in the support systems.
Commercial Printing Support
Fortunately, computer printers that do not break often. But when that happens, solving problems can be a painful process.
There are some basics that can cover for a simplified process for resolving problems.
Be advised that if you ever crack the case of a printer, you should darn sure to switch off the power before you do. Printers that are connected to a power supply can actually charge you with enough current to kill you. Do not take risks with your life.
Long before you reach the point of trying to crack the case to the internals, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take.
Always check the power supply to see if you have a good, solid relationship. I know that seems the most logical step to take, but you might be surprised how often powerless machine discovered that the machine is unplugged.
* If your printer has the power to it, and then switch the device off and then turn it on again. Each printer has a brain inside it. Removing power from the unit temporarily will force the computer chip inside the printer to reset. Often times, this will solve any problems.
* Make sure your printer cartridge is properly seated. Make sure the container is in the printer the way the manufacturer intended.
* Use the printer's "self-test" feature. The manufacturer has included this will help to eliminate common printing problems.
These four steps will help you to overcome the problems commonly associated with the printer.
Digital Technology Within Your Reach
Technology is everywhere. No matter if you are looking for a small home appliance or a smart phone, a laptop or a high-definition TV, anything that comes under the general category of gadgets and electronics have made our lives more simple and fun. One cannot imagine spending their leisure time without listening to his favorite music on his iPod or socializing online via internet with his friends and family. Keeping a smart phone these days that fulfills all your professional and personal needs have become more of a necessity rather than a luxury and without the right appliances, a home is not considered complete.
When our lives have become so much dependent on digital technology of every kind, the demand for purchasing the latest models and top brands has also increased. Online consumer market is spilling over with world's leading brands and companies dealing in top notch digital gadgets and appliances and opening up their own exclusive outlets online to cater to a large number of customers. But trawling the web to track down various discount deals and promotional offers on your desired electronic gadgets and accessories can take up a lot of your time and energy. To save yourself from going through the hassle of hunting down electronics and other digital appliances of your choice at easy prices, just try locating down an Amazon Coupon to get huge discounts and massive savings on all of your purchases.
Speaking of getting your hands on an Amazon Coupon, one of the main questions that arise in a consumer's mind is that from where can he obtain it? Well, not a problem! Whenever you are set off on an online shopping spree, make sure that you check out various price comparison websites and online coupon directories with an aim of acquiring an Amazon Coupon/Coupons against the products or appliances you intend to purchase. Once you are done shopping, just punch in the Amazon Coupon at the time of payment and there you go! You have just entitled yourself to amazing discounts and savings up to 50% and more off the actual prices just because you grabbed hold of the appropriate Amazon Coupon against the products you have purchased.
If you are a tech lover and always want to stay updated on the latest trends and advancements taking place in the global digital sector, chances are that you might end up making expensive bargains while purchasing your desired gadgets or digital accessories if you won't take benefit from what an Amazon Coupon is offering you. Once you have obtained an Amazon Coupon, all you have to do is to use it against the products you have purchased and once done, you can check out various value added features and bonus discounts as well that are tagged along with that Amazon Coupon.
Nothing can be more delightful than getting few extra savings on bigger items like electronics or home appliances. However, before getting hold of an Amazon Coupon, make sure that you have confirmed the expiration date in advance. Why so? Because digital world is reaching new heights with every passing day and therefore the companies and brands dealing in digital gadgets and appliances keep on introducing latest models in the consumer market with new and improved features. That's why online retail stores like Amazon keep on introducing new Amazon Coupon/Coupons in the form of seasonal and occasional discount deals to let you enjoy an affordable online shopping experience so go ahead and get them today!
When our lives have become so much dependent on digital technology of every kind, the demand for purchasing the latest models and top brands has also increased. Online consumer market is spilling over with world's leading brands and companies dealing in top notch digital gadgets and appliances and opening up their own exclusive outlets online to cater to a large number of customers. But trawling the web to track down various discount deals and promotional offers on your desired electronic gadgets and accessories can take up a lot of your time and energy. To save yourself from going through the hassle of hunting down electronics and other digital appliances of your choice at easy prices, just try locating down an Amazon Coupon to get huge discounts and massive savings on all of your purchases.
Speaking of getting your hands on an Amazon Coupon, one of the main questions that arise in a consumer's mind is that from where can he obtain it? Well, not a problem! Whenever you are set off on an online shopping spree, make sure that you check out various price comparison websites and online coupon directories with an aim of acquiring an Amazon Coupon/Coupons against the products or appliances you intend to purchase. Once you are done shopping, just punch in the Amazon Coupon at the time of payment and there you go! You have just entitled yourself to amazing discounts and savings up to 50% and more off the actual prices just because you grabbed hold of the appropriate Amazon Coupon against the products you have purchased.
If you are a tech lover and always want to stay updated on the latest trends and advancements taking place in the global digital sector, chances are that you might end up making expensive bargains while purchasing your desired gadgets or digital accessories if you won't take benefit from what an Amazon Coupon is offering you. Once you have obtained an Amazon Coupon, all you have to do is to use it against the products you have purchased and once done, you can check out various value added features and bonus discounts as well that are tagged along with that Amazon Coupon.
Nothing can be more delightful than getting few extra savings on bigger items like electronics or home appliances. However, before getting hold of an Amazon Coupon, make sure that you have confirmed the expiration date in advance. Why so? Because digital world is reaching new heights with every passing day and therefore the companies and brands dealing in digital gadgets and appliances keep on introducing latest models in the consumer market with new and improved features. That's why online retail stores like Amazon keep on introducing new Amazon Coupon/Coupons in the form of seasonal and occasional discount deals to let you enjoy an affordable online shopping experience so go ahead and get them today!
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Apple Gives Back-to-School Promotion a Mac App Store Twist
Apple launched its back-to-school promotion Thursday, offering students a $100 gift card for the Mac App Store when they purchase a new Mac.
The promotion runs from June 16 through September 20. International Apple Stores are also taking part in the promotion, offering users gift cards in local currency (75 Euros, £65, etc.).
Apple does a back-to-school promotion every year, usually giving students a free iPod (or in recent years, an iPod touch) after mail-in-rebate, with the purchase of a new Mac.
College students, students accepted to college, their parents and faculty and staff members at any grade level qualify for the promotion. Apple also offers educational discounts ranging from $50 to $200 off the retail price on Mac products. The promotion is good at Apple Stores, the Apple Online Store for Education and authorized Apple campus stores. A full list of terms and conditions can be found at this page [PDF].
Apple isn’t the only company with a back-to-school promotion. Microsoft is giving college students a free Xbox 360 with the purchase of a Windows PC priced $699 or higher.
It’s telling that Apple is switching its promotional tactics to the Mac App Store. The store soft-launched in January and is already proving successful for software developers. When Mac OS X Lion comes out next month, it will be available exclusively through the Mac App Store. All customers who purchase a Mac before Lion’s release will be able to download the latest OS for free.
The promotion runs from June 16 through September 20. International Apple Stores are also taking part in the promotion, offering users gift cards in local currency (75 Euros, £65, etc.).
Apple does a back-to-school promotion every year, usually giving students a free iPod (or in recent years, an iPod touch) after mail-in-rebate, with the purchase of a new Mac.
College students, students accepted to college, their parents and faculty and staff members at any grade level qualify for the promotion. Apple also offers educational discounts ranging from $50 to $200 off the retail price on Mac products. The promotion is good at Apple Stores, the Apple Online Store for Education and authorized Apple campus stores. A full list of terms and conditions can be found at this page [PDF].
Apple isn’t the only company with a back-to-school promotion. Microsoft is giving college students a free Xbox 360 with the purchase of a Windows PC priced $699 or higher.
It’s telling that Apple is switching its promotional tactics to the Mac App Store. The store soft-launched in January and is already proving successful for software developers. When Mac OS X Lion comes out next month, it will be available exclusively through the Mac App Store. All customers who purchase a Mac before Lion’s release will be able to download the latest OS for free.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
iOS 5: What We Wanted vs. What We Got
Only two of our nine iOS 5 wishes were granted. To be fair, we got our number one wish (wireless syncing)—and a whole lot more. Here are the details.
With WWDC in the rear-view mirror, we're taking a look back at our iOS 5 wish list to see what Steve Jobs granted. The results will surprise: While iOS 5 will grant only two of our nine wishes (so far), there are plenty more features that we hadn't even dreamed up.
First, let's run down the original wish list. Beyond the two big ones—wireless syncing and revamped notifications—the prospects for outstanding wishes are classified as either "unfulfilled" or "hazy." Our list of unfulfilled wishes suggests that there's still hope, however: the feature may arrive with the forthcoming iPhone or may instead nest in the larger list of "more than 200 new features" that will ship with iOS. "Hazy" wishes indicate uncertainty, either because they butt up against Apple tradition or seem too significant to have not been addressed in the keynote.
Apple iPhone
Next, on page two, we run down ten wishes we didn't even think to make—but Apple nevertheless granted in iOS 5. Did we leave anything else behind at the Moscone Center? Comment with your favorite new features.
THE WISH LIST
#1 Wireless Syncing: Wish Granted
The Wish
Apple may tout the iPad and iPad 2 as "post-PC" devices, but the first action that must be performed before someone purchases the tablet is to connect it to a computer to sync account information, music, photos, video, and other files. In fact, you can't even view the home screen without first connecting with iTunes. That's not at all "post-PC," and the entire affair gives the iPad the air of a PC sidekick rather than that of a true stand-alone device. Apple could eliminate this problem and perception by moving iTunes to the cloud; something that seems quite possible if it builds upon La La technology (the company it purchased in 2009). This would allow users to log onto their iPads to wirelessly stream and sync content from any location—much like Amazon's recently-released Cloud Player. You'd never have to worry about USB cables again—at least until it's time to charge the iPad.
The Reality
iOS 5 will no longer prompt you to tether your iPhone, iPod, or iPad to get started. Instead, you'll be greeted by a "Welcome" screen, from which you can set up and activate your device without a computer. With iCloud, pretty much all of your data is up in the air, so to speak—especially if you spring for iTunes Match. Most importantly, Apple has reinvented software updates. Gone are the days of tethering for an incremental .x update, in fact now Apple will release the "delta" update, meaning that you'll only need to download what's changed from one release to the next. Notification Center 300
#2 A Revamped Notification System: Wish Granted
The Wish
The Motorola Xoom's stock Honeycomb OS has its flaws, but the way that it handles notifications is excellent. For example, when a new e-mail arrives, Honeycomb pings you no matter where you are within the operating system; iOS 4.3 requires you to got to the home screen to see if the Mail app has an unread message icon. In addition, iOS only displays the latest notification message—there's no way to view older ones. Apple, take a look at what's Google done and work out a way to let users receive notifications from anywhere within the OS, and to let them read previous alerts.
The Reality
If you like the way Android manages notification, you'll love iOS 5. The forthcoming release includes Notification Center, which aggregates all notifications in one eminently swipeable display that resides, unobtrusively, at the top of the screen. You'll even be able to access all notifications from the lock screen: Swiping any notification opens the relevant app and notification.
#3 4G Connectivity: Wish Unfulfilled
The Wish
When the iPad debuted it was on the cutting edge of smartphone technology with its innovative touchscreen interface and, eventually, its apps store. But other handset manufacturers have managed to one up Apple in one important area: wireless connectivity. Phones such as the HTC Thunderbolt boast speedy 4G connections, which lets users download files faster or stream hiccup-free video.
The Reality
Apple hasn't said. Chances are this depends upon what the forthcoming iPhone has under the hood.
#4 Adding An App Basket: Wish Unfulfilled
The Wish
The App Store has proven wildly successful for Apple, so it boggles the mind that the company only allows users to make one purchase at time. I discover a handful of cool and interesting apps on nearly a daily basis as I explore the best iPad apps—I would love to be able to queue up a string of apps in a basket, and then move on to do other things as they download to my iPad.
The Reality
Apple didn't devote time in the keynote to this point; however, of the 200+ new features to come, this could be one.
#5 Ability to Roll Back to Earlier Versions of iOS: The Crystal Ball is Hazy
The Wish
iOS 5 is sure to pack a number of intriguing features which will entice you to upgrade to the new operating system. But as we've demonstrated, upgrading (depending on the device) can stymie the overall system performance. Unfortunately, rolling back to a previous build can create its own frustrations. Apple needs to include a way for users to quickly and easily roll back iOS to help users of older devices whose handsets may not be up handling to the newest version.
The Reality
Considering that Apple has a two year (or less) memory, it's highly unlikely that Apple will enable users to roll back to previous versions of iOS. For example, even Mac OS X Lion, designed for Mac faithful, requires the Mac App Store, and the Mac App Store requires Snow Leopard.
#6 Automatic App Updates: Unfulfilled
The Wish
Between my iPhone and iPad, I have numerous apps I use on a daily basis. This means that I also receive a fair number of alerts stating that software updates are available. Certainly, launching the App Store and tapping the Update icon isn't very time consuming, but I would appreciate it if Apple and the respective app developers allowed updates to automatically downloaded on their own—in the background—without my intervention. iOS should send a notification before and after the download was completed.
The Reality
iOS 5 snips the cord, so it's reasonable to expect automatic updates down the road. We already know that you'll be able to update iOS wirelessly. That said, there wasn't any mention of automatic updates in the keynote. This doesn't mean that it isn't buried in one of the bonus features or queued up for an incremental update.
#7 NFC Support: Unfulfilled
The Wish
Google made headlines last week when it unveiled Google Wallet, a NFC (near-field communication) powered wireless service that lets you make purchases with your smartphone. iOS should adopt NFC as a way to quickly make purchase my tapping your phone—or with some forward thinking—allow your phone to act as a smart car key, or a smart business card.
The Reality
As with 4G, NSF support probably hinges on the forthcoming iPhone hardware; however, Apple certainly didn't take time to say one way or another during the keynote.
#8 Deleting or Hiding Default Apps: Unfulfilled
The Wish
Apple includes a number of apps on every iOS device—Contacts, Notes, Calendar, Maps, YouTube—but Cupertino doesn't give you any method to remove those apps should you not want to use them. For example, Bento for iPad is my preferred tool for managing contact information—why does the default (and far less feature-rich) Contacts icon have to remain on my iPad's homescreen? As someone who is quite anal in app organization (I like the homescreen streamlined and efficient), this inability to delete—or at least hide—those pre-loaded icons is a wee bit maddening.
The Reality
While it's highly unlikely that Apple would let uses delete when of their "revolutionary" iApps, hiding them is certainly a possibility, considering the technology company does allow customers to customize their docks and stow default apps in folders. This could be one of the 200+ other features, but it's too soon to say. Twitter Integration 400
#9 Turn-by-Turn Navigation: The Crystal Ball is Hazy
The Wish
Currently, unless you download MapQuest or jailbreak your iOS device, there's no way to get turn-by-turn GPS navigation on your handheld. Apple should have this functionality baked right into the operating system. Considering that Apple tracks your movements, this seems the next logical step.
The Reality
While we know that iOS 5 still relies upon Google Maps—it uses them to attach locations to the system-wide Twitter integration—Apple hasn't tipped its hat on turn-by-turn. That said, it's doubtful that so desired a feature wouldn't have landed a top-spot in the keynote.
With WWDC in the rear-view mirror, we're taking a look back at our iOS 5 wish list to see what Steve Jobs granted. The results will surprise: While iOS 5 will grant only two of our nine wishes (so far), there are plenty more features that we hadn't even dreamed up.
First, let's run down the original wish list. Beyond the two big ones—wireless syncing and revamped notifications—the prospects for outstanding wishes are classified as either "unfulfilled" or "hazy." Our list of unfulfilled wishes suggests that there's still hope, however: the feature may arrive with the forthcoming iPhone or may instead nest in the larger list of "more than 200 new features" that will ship with iOS. "Hazy" wishes indicate uncertainty, either because they butt up against Apple tradition or seem too significant to have not been addressed in the keynote.
Apple iPhone
Next, on page two, we run down ten wishes we didn't even think to make—but Apple nevertheless granted in iOS 5. Did we leave anything else behind at the Moscone Center? Comment with your favorite new features.
THE WISH LIST
#1 Wireless Syncing: Wish Granted
The Wish
Apple may tout the iPad and iPad 2 as "post-PC" devices, but the first action that must be performed before someone purchases the tablet is to connect it to a computer to sync account information, music, photos, video, and other files. In fact, you can't even view the home screen without first connecting with iTunes. That's not at all "post-PC," and the entire affair gives the iPad the air of a PC sidekick rather than that of a true stand-alone device. Apple could eliminate this problem and perception by moving iTunes to the cloud; something that seems quite possible if it builds upon La La technology (the company it purchased in 2009). This would allow users to log onto their iPads to wirelessly stream and sync content from any location—much like Amazon's recently-released Cloud Player. You'd never have to worry about USB cables again—at least until it's time to charge the iPad.
The Reality
iOS 5 will no longer prompt you to tether your iPhone, iPod, or iPad to get started. Instead, you'll be greeted by a "Welcome" screen, from which you can set up and activate your device without a computer. With iCloud, pretty much all of your data is up in the air, so to speak—especially if you spring for iTunes Match. Most importantly, Apple has reinvented software updates. Gone are the days of tethering for an incremental .x update, in fact now Apple will release the "delta" update, meaning that you'll only need to download what's changed from one release to the next. Notification Center 300
#2 A Revamped Notification System: Wish Granted
The Wish
The Motorola Xoom's stock Honeycomb OS has its flaws, but the way that it handles notifications is excellent. For example, when a new e-mail arrives, Honeycomb pings you no matter where you are within the operating system; iOS 4.3 requires you to got to the home screen to see if the Mail app has an unread message icon. In addition, iOS only displays the latest notification message—there's no way to view older ones. Apple, take a look at what's Google done and work out a way to let users receive notifications from anywhere within the OS, and to let them read previous alerts.
The Reality
If you like the way Android manages notification, you'll love iOS 5. The forthcoming release includes Notification Center, which aggregates all notifications in one eminently swipeable display that resides, unobtrusively, at the top of the screen. You'll even be able to access all notifications from the lock screen: Swiping any notification opens the relevant app and notification.
#3 4G Connectivity: Wish Unfulfilled
The Wish
When the iPad debuted it was on the cutting edge of smartphone technology with its innovative touchscreen interface and, eventually, its apps store. But other handset manufacturers have managed to one up Apple in one important area: wireless connectivity. Phones such as the HTC Thunderbolt boast speedy 4G connections, which lets users download files faster or stream hiccup-free video.
The Reality
Apple hasn't said. Chances are this depends upon what the forthcoming iPhone has under the hood.
#4 Adding An App Basket: Wish Unfulfilled
The Wish
The App Store has proven wildly successful for Apple, so it boggles the mind that the company only allows users to make one purchase at time. I discover a handful of cool and interesting apps on nearly a daily basis as I explore the best iPad apps—I would love to be able to queue up a string of apps in a basket, and then move on to do other things as they download to my iPad.
The Reality
Apple didn't devote time in the keynote to this point; however, of the 200+ new features to come, this could be one.
#5 Ability to Roll Back to Earlier Versions of iOS: The Crystal Ball is Hazy
The Wish
iOS 5 is sure to pack a number of intriguing features which will entice you to upgrade to the new operating system. But as we've demonstrated, upgrading (depending on the device) can stymie the overall system performance. Unfortunately, rolling back to a previous build can create its own frustrations. Apple needs to include a way for users to quickly and easily roll back iOS to help users of older devices whose handsets may not be up handling to the newest version.
The Reality
Considering that Apple has a two year (or less) memory, it's highly unlikely that Apple will enable users to roll back to previous versions of iOS. For example, even Mac OS X Lion, designed for Mac faithful, requires the Mac App Store, and the Mac App Store requires Snow Leopard.
#6 Automatic App Updates: Unfulfilled
The Wish
Between my iPhone and iPad, I have numerous apps I use on a daily basis. This means that I also receive a fair number of alerts stating that software updates are available. Certainly, launching the App Store and tapping the Update icon isn't very time consuming, but I would appreciate it if Apple and the respective app developers allowed updates to automatically downloaded on their own—in the background—without my intervention. iOS should send a notification before and after the download was completed.
The Reality
iOS 5 snips the cord, so it's reasonable to expect automatic updates down the road. We already know that you'll be able to update iOS wirelessly. That said, there wasn't any mention of automatic updates in the keynote. This doesn't mean that it isn't buried in one of the bonus features or queued up for an incremental update.
#7 NFC Support: Unfulfilled
The Wish
Google made headlines last week when it unveiled Google Wallet, a NFC (near-field communication) powered wireless service that lets you make purchases with your smartphone. iOS should adopt NFC as a way to quickly make purchase my tapping your phone—or with some forward thinking—allow your phone to act as a smart car key, or a smart business card.
The Reality
As with 4G, NSF support probably hinges on the forthcoming iPhone hardware; however, Apple certainly didn't take time to say one way or another during the keynote.
#8 Deleting or Hiding Default Apps: Unfulfilled
The Wish
Apple includes a number of apps on every iOS device—Contacts, Notes, Calendar, Maps, YouTube—but Cupertino doesn't give you any method to remove those apps should you not want to use them. For example, Bento for iPad is my preferred tool for managing contact information—why does the default (and far less feature-rich) Contacts icon have to remain on my iPad's homescreen? As someone who is quite anal in app organization (I like the homescreen streamlined and efficient), this inability to delete—or at least hide—those pre-loaded icons is a wee bit maddening.
The Reality
While it's highly unlikely that Apple would let uses delete when of their "revolutionary" iApps, hiding them is certainly a possibility, considering the technology company does allow customers to customize their docks and stow default apps in folders. This could be one of the 200+ other features, but it's too soon to say. Twitter Integration 400
#9 Turn-by-Turn Navigation: The Crystal Ball is Hazy
The Wish
Currently, unless you download MapQuest or jailbreak your iOS device, there's no way to get turn-by-turn GPS navigation on your handheld. Apple should have this functionality baked right into the operating system. Considering that Apple tracks your movements, this seems the next logical step.
The Reality
While we know that iOS 5 still relies upon Google Maps—it uses them to attach locations to the system-wide Twitter integration—Apple hasn't tipped its hat on turn-by-turn. That said, it's doubtful that so desired a feature wouldn't have landed a top-spot in the keynote.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Nikon Digital Camera Price
Nikon digital cameras compact series of product ranges from robust COOLPIX P-series cameras for skillful photographers and for the ones it is to easy-to-use COOLPIX L-series cameras, and for the stylish COOLPIX S-series cameras for the fashionistas. Starting from an entry-level DSLRs to professional full-frame DSLRs, Nikon DSLR's have what it takes to fulfill every photographer's needs.
The brand name Nikon only has a mission which is to "capture the nuances of the heart like joy, sorrow, wonder, hope... and vividly express them in the visible world". Thy aim by far is "In the heart of the image" and Nikon cameras dare to take it on. The company believes in delivering absolute quality through its advanced imaging techniques and the research put in with every finer details which is shown with the cameras that they manufacture.
Nikon Coolpix S6100 camera offers advanced features in a slim body, wide-angle 7x zoom NIKKOR lens, 16 megapixel image sensor and HD movie recording at the touch of a button @ attractive Price.
Nikon S6100 Digital Camera Features:
The S6100 comes in five colours: violet, black, red, pink and silver. It boxes a 3-inch wide viewing angle touch panel TFT LCD monitor for smooth operation, EXPEED C2 image processing engine, Beautiful nighttime shots in difficult dimly lit or dark surroundings, a variety of shooting modes, playback and retouch functions, HD Video recording with Optical Zoom
Nikon Coolpix L120 is a high-power zoom camera which offers 21x optical zoom, high-definition LCD monitor and high-quality design.
Nikon L120 Camera Features:
The camera incoporates a wide-angle 25mm lens with 21x optical zoom, Macro photography offers shooting as close as just 1 cm to the subject, Vibration reduction (VR) using an image sensor shift method and electronic VR for Blur-free image, 3-inch wide viewing angle TFT LCD monitor, recording of HD movies with stereo sound, built-in HDMI connector, powered by AA batteries for hours of photo and movie recording.
The brand name Nikon only has a mission which is to "capture the nuances of the heart like joy, sorrow, wonder, hope... and vividly express them in the visible world". Thy aim by far is "In the heart of the image" and Nikon cameras dare to take it on. The company believes in delivering absolute quality through its advanced imaging techniques and the research put in with every finer details which is shown with the cameras that they manufacture.
Nikon Coolpix S6100 camera offers advanced features in a slim body, wide-angle 7x zoom NIKKOR lens, 16 megapixel image sensor and HD movie recording at the touch of a button @ attractive Price.
Nikon S6100 Digital Camera Features:
The S6100 comes in five colours: violet, black, red, pink and silver. It boxes a 3-inch wide viewing angle touch panel TFT LCD monitor for smooth operation, EXPEED C2 image processing engine, Beautiful nighttime shots in difficult dimly lit or dark surroundings, a variety of shooting modes, playback and retouch functions, HD Video recording with Optical Zoom
Nikon Coolpix L120 is a high-power zoom camera which offers 21x optical zoom, high-definition LCD monitor and high-quality design.
Nikon L120 Camera Features:
The camera incoporates a wide-angle 25mm lens with 21x optical zoom, Macro photography offers shooting as close as just 1 cm to the subject, Vibration reduction (VR) using an image sensor shift method and electronic VR for Blur-free image, 3-inch wide viewing angle TFT LCD monitor, recording of HD movies with stereo sound, built-in HDMI connector, powered by AA batteries for hours of photo and movie recording.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Cisco faces second suit over China actions
Cisco is now facing a second lawsuit alleging that the company's technology and training aided in identifying and monitoring Chinese dissidents.
The suit was filed on behalf of three Chinese writers who contribute to the websites of Harry Wu, executive director of the Laogai Research Foundation, according to this post on ITBusinessEdge. Wu is a Chinese political dissident who spent 19 years in Chinese forced-labor prison camps.
VOICE OF DISSENT: China's Great Firewall a big inconvenience: shoe thrower
The suit was filed earlier this week in U.S. District Court in Maryland, according to the blog. It charges Cisco with essentially optimizing its equipment and providing the training to allow Chinese authorities and the government to detect and track individuals engaging anonymously in pro-democracy political commentary on the Internet.
Cisco was sued last month by members of the Falun Gong religious group, claiming that Cisco supplied technology to the Chinese government knowing it would be used to oppress the movement.
Cisco denies both charges in a blog posted on its website by General Counsel Mark Chandler:
"Our company has been accused in a pair of lawsuits of contributing to the mistreatment of dissidents in China, based on the assertion that we customize our equipment to participate in tracking of dissidents. The lawsuits are inaccurate and entirely without foundation ... We have never customized our equipment to help the Chinese government -- or any government -- censor content, track Internet use by individuals or intercept Internet communications."
Chandler states that Cisco equipment supplied to China is the same as that supplied to public libraries in the U.S. to block inappropriate content, and to global businesses and service providers to stop viruses and attempts to disable infrastructure using "industry-standard network management capabilities."
Cisco denied similar allegations in 2008 when the company testified before U.S. Congress. Questions about Cisco's involvement with Chinese Internet censorship efforts were raised after a company PowerPoint had surfaced that referred to the suppression of the Falun Gong and "other hostiles."
The suit was filed on behalf of three Chinese writers who contribute to the websites of Harry Wu, executive director of the Laogai Research Foundation, according to this post on ITBusinessEdge. Wu is a Chinese political dissident who spent 19 years in Chinese forced-labor prison camps.
VOICE OF DISSENT: China's Great Firewall a big inconvenience: shoe thrower
The suit was filed earlier this week in U.S. District Court in Maryland, according to the blog. It charges Cisco with essentially optimizing its equipment and providing the training to allow Chinese authorities and the government to detect and track individuals engaging anonymously in pro-democracy political commentary on the Internet.
Cisco was sued last month by members of the Falun Gong religious group, claiming that Cisco supplied technology to the Chinese government knowing it would be used to oppress the movement.
Cisco denies both charges in a blog posted on its website by General Counsel Mark Chandler:
"Our company has been accused in a pair of lawsuits of contributing to the mistreatment of dissidents in China, based on the assertion that we customize our equipment to participate in tracking of dissidents. The lawsuits are inaccurate and entirely without foundation ... We have never customized our equipment to help the Chinese government -- or any government -- censor content, track Internet use by individuals or intercept Internet communications."
Chandler states that Cisco equipment supplied to China is the same as that supplied to public libraries in the U.S. to block inappropriate content, and to global businesses and service providers to stop viruses and attempts to disable infrastructure using "industry-standard network management capabilities."
Cisco denied similar allegations in 2008 when the company testified before U.S. Congress. Questions about Cisco's involvement with Chinese Internet censorship efforts were raised after a company PowerPoint had surfaced that referred to the suppression of the Falun Gong and "other hostiles."
Friday, June 10, 2011
Computers Can Be So Annoying!
In this day and age, computers are everywhere and run almost everything. We rely on them in our personal lives, our work lives, our social lives..... absolutely everywhere. They keep our schedules, run our businesses, handle our accounting, hold our music, pictures and important documents, give us access to the internet, and on and on and on. We absolutely love our computers and live and die by them (practically). So why are they so darn annoying?
All we want is for our computer to come on and work the way we expect it to and do what we ask of it. I mean, really, it's not rocket science! We just want to check some e-mail or type a report or listen to some music or play a game or surf the web or whatever. But we want to do it without all the crashes and error messages and popups and the like. "Plug and Play" should mean "Plug and Play" not "Plug and Pray" but they still haven't gotten that quite right yet, have they?
I mean Microsoft with all of it's updates.... why couldn't they just get it right the first time (they've been doing it long enough). Should we all just really go out and get a mac? And all of these ridiculous, flambouyant drivers and programs that HP installs with your printer that bomb or crash 70% of the time. Whatever happened to the good old days when you just told your computer that you had an HP laserjet 4 and the driver was installed and that was it? You never heard from the printer or it's driver ever again. You simply told the computer to print whatever you wanted printed and that was it.
Well, here's the good news. If you, like most of us, are tied to your computer and can't live without but are tired of all the little bumps in the road that annoy you and keep you from being as productive as you can.... finally there's a solution. You can come here to this blog and post your messages, thoughts, comments, suggestions and I will answer any and all questions that you have. So no more fumbling around in the dark and no more endless searches for the answer to that annoying little bug. I am here to help you.
So come on and post those messages and let's get you back to where you want to be.... loving your computer and syncing your IPod or cataloging those pictures or whatever it is that you do!
All we want is for our computer to come on and work the way we expect it to and do what we ask of it. I mean, really, it's not rocket science! We just want to check some e-mail or type a report or listen to some music or play a game or surf the web or whatever. But we want to do it without all the crashes and error messages and popups and the like. "Plug and Play" should mean "Plug and Play" not "Plug and Pray" but they still haven't gotten that quite right yet, have they?
I mean Microsoft with all of it's updates.... why couldn't they just get it right the first time (they've been doing it long enough). Should we all just really go out and get a mac? And all of these ridiculous, flambouyant drivers and programs that HP installs with your printer that bomb or crash 70% of the time. Whatever happened to the good old days when you just told your computer that you had an HP laserjet 4 and the driver was installed and that was it? You never heard from the printer or it's driver ever again. You simply told the computer to print whatever you wanted printed and that was it.
Well, here's the good news. If you, like most of us, are tied to your computer and can't live without but are tired of all the little bumps in the road that annoy you and keep you from being as productive as you can.... finally there's a solution. You can come here to this blog and post your messages, thoughts, comments, suggestions and I will answer any and all questions that you have. So no more fumbling around in the dark and no more endless searches for the answer to that annoying little bug. I am here to help you.
So come on and post those messages and let's get you back to where you want to be.... loving your computer and syncing your IPod or cataloging those pictures or whatever it is that you do!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Is the CompTIA Network+ Certification worthwhile?
I have a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, and have a couple years work experience doing mostly QA (and a little development) on a networking related software product. Currently, I am not working and I was wondering if acquiring a Network+ certification would be worthwhile.
The Network+ certification seems to cover rather general material about networking basics, so I'm afraid it may be a waste of my time and money. Since it's not testing a specific product knowledge (Oracle/Cisco/etc) it seems not to be the kind of certification you usually see listed in job advertisements. So is it worthwhile?
* When you review resumes of QA engineers or entry-level developer positions do you place any value on a Network+ certification?
* Do you have a Network+ certification, and if so have you ever found it to be helpful in finding a job?
* Is there a more appropriate networking related certification for someone in my position? (Perhaps the Cisco Certified Network Associate?)
* Assuming a Network+ certification alone isn't so worthwhile, then would a Network+ paired with a Security+, Server+, or Linux+ certification be worthwhile, or still not so hot?
I'll appreciate all feedback and opinions, no matter what they are. Thanks!
Answers
I think every certification is worth while. It shows the employer that you are trying to learn more and you like what you are doing.
It shouldn't matter what certification type you get either a CompTIA or a CISCO but they are specific to regions (e.g In Canada CompTIA is more popular while in USA and Europe "like" CISCO better).
The Network+ certification seems to cover rather general material about networking basics, so I'm afraid it may be a waste of my time and money. Since it's not testing a specific product knowledge (Oracle/Cisco/etc) it seems not to be the kind of certification you usually see listed in job advertisements. So is it worthwhile?
* When you review resumes of QA engineers or entry-level developer positions do you place any value on a Network+ certification?
* Do you have a Network+ certification, and if so have you ever found it to be helpful in finding a job?
* Is there a more appropriate networking related certification for someone in my position? (Perhaps the Cisco Certified Network Associate?)
* Assuming a Network+ certification alone isn't so worthwhile, then would a Network+ paired with a Security+, Server+, or Linux+ certification be worthwhile, or still not so hot?
I'll appreciate all feedback and opinions, no matter what they are. Thanks!
Answers
I think every certification is worth while. It shows the employer that you are trying to learn more and you like what you are doing.
It shouldn't matter what certification type you get either a CompTIA or a CISCO but they are specific to regions (e.g In Canada CompTIA is more popular while in USA and Europe "like" CISCO better).
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Specialist on Laser Cutting Service with Laser Cutting Technology
Laser Cutting
Quick Look on Laser Cutting
LASER indicate Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Laser cutting permits you to cut solid items especially metals which can be employed as resources for other fabrication line or industrial manufacturing. The laser cutting machine forms and directs intensely thick and firm straight ray through stimulated emission, which penetrates within these hard materials. However, the variation in hard materials too activate variation in outcome to laser. Laser cutting leaves an edge with smooth surface by flaming, melting, or dissolving the hard materials.
As a matter of fact, flat metal sheets and similar items, structural or piping items involve good quality industrial laser machinery. Laser cutting can contribute in quickening of metal cutting and the capability of a lot of metal fabrication industries. Laser cutting can be employed as cost cutting technology and also can speed up productivity and generate good quality cutting.
What are the Kinds of Lasers?
3 types of lasers that are available in the present world are: CO2 Laser, Neodymium (Nd) Laser, and Neodymium Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Nd-YAG) Lasers.
Drilling, cutting, and engraving are the main purpose why Carbonated laser is utilized. Axial and transverse flows together with slab are the major variants of Carbon-di-oxide lasers.
Neodymium (Nd) and Neodymium Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Nd-YAG) Lasers are indistinguishable, though they don't match in appliance. In Neodymium (Nd) Laser, very high power is essential with low reappearance for boring metals.
Neodymium Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Nd-YAG) Lasers use intense power for boring & engraving. However, for welding purpose all the laser cutting can be utilized.
Laser Cutting Techniques
You can cut in various methods exploiting laser. However, different metals involve different systems. e. g. the cutting systems are:
* Blowing, melting, and burning
* Blowing and melting
* Vaporization
* Scribing
* Thermal stress cracking
* Cold cutting
* Burning stabilized laser cutting.
Laser Cutting and its Merit and Disadvantage
Accuracy, economy, superior quality and cutting pace are the basic merits for u the laser cutting technology. But the use of intense energy is the primary demerit for choo laser cutting technology. Laser cutting professionals can get into intense risk of intensive burns from the laser.
Quick Look on Laser Cutting
LASER indicate Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Laser cutting permits you to cut solid items especially metals which can be employed as resources for other fabrication line or industrial manufacturing. The laser cutting machine forms and directs intensely thick and firm straight ray through stimulated emission, which penetrates within these hard materials. However, the variation in hard materials too activate variation in outcome to laser. Laser cutting leaves an edge with smooth surface by flaming, melting, or dissolving the hard materials.
As a matter of fact, flat metal sheets and similar items, structural or piping items involve good quality industrial laser machinery. Laser cutting can contribute in quickening of metal cutting and the capability of a lot of metal fabrication industries. Laser cutting can be employed as cost cutting technology and also can speed up productivity and generate good quality cutting.
What are the Kinds of Lasers?
3 types of lasers that are available in the present world are: CO2 Laser, Neodymium (Nd) Laser, and Neodymium Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Nd-YAG) Lasers.
Drilling, cutting, and engraving are the main purpose why Carbonated laser is utilized. Axial and transverse flows together with slab are the major variants of Carbon-di-oxide lasers.
Neodymium (Nd) and Neodymium Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Nd-YAG) Lasers are indistinguishable, though they don't match in appliance. In Neodymium (Nd) Laser, very high power is essential with low reappearance for boring metals.
Neodymium Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Nd-YAG) Lasers use intense power for boring & engraving. However, for welding purpose all the laser cutting can be utilized.
Laser Cutting Techniques
You can cut in various methods exploiting laser. However, different metals involve different systems. e. g. the cutting systems are:
* Blowing, melting, and burning
* Blowing and melting
* Vaporization
* Scribing
* Thermal stress cracking
* Cold cutting
* Burning stabilized laser cutting.
Laser Cutting and its Merit and Disadvantage
Accuracy, economy, superior quality and cutting pace are the basic merits for u the laser cutting technology. But the use of intense energy is the primary demerit for choo laser cutting technology. Laser cutting professionals can get into intense risk of intensive burns from the laser.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Halo 4_The Untold Story
After the great story being unraveled in Halo 3, people, still up to this very date, are continually inquiring as to whether or not there is truth beyond the creation of Halo 4.
An outbreak of news have been revolving as official announcements were made yet still no live proof of the next Halo game being played by the aspiring game players may it be through their personal computers or through Xbox. Bottom line, no shadow of this predicted Halo part has been found to exist.
If you are a deadly fanatic of the series, you may be one of those people who are thinking that the announcement was made due to peer pressure or that it will soon be discovered to be a hoax. Yet, a glimpse of hope is still shining within your very soul.
So, are there truths behind the accusations that Halo part 4 would soon be the historical game to be played in the near future? In order to calm you down and more or less create a sense of ease in your eagerness to play it, here are some of the points that would make you hold on tight to that gleaming hope from within.
First, the golden mechanism around the business industry is money. People cannot help but to invest in the creation of such magnificent game if they know that they would surely hit it off with huge financial benefits in the end. Money does make the world go round, you know.
This is especially true in the world of business. Halo creation and franchise mean money for Microsoft. If they try to change the entire series or abolish the series and start a fresh one, at the peak of their success, would be a huge stump on their common sense. Also, this actually does not make sense at all, if actions such as that would be initiated.
Microsoft has spent many years to popularize such brand and invested so much in the process. The next part of the Halo series does not simply speak of a particular brand of a game, for many, especially for the creators, it is the actual life among the living.
Secondly, Halo is considered to be one of the biggest video game being franchise in our planet. The past releases of the series would greatly give emphasis to such success. In 2008 alone, there was a massive hit in the release of Halo 3 together with GTA 4. Such high launched status has never been actually seen within the video game industry.
The different sales of this game, specifically the presales, depict high demand over such game. So why not continue such success with another part of the Halo series? Surely, Microsoft will not suddenly cut off a huge money and marketing drive from their system.
Lastly, aside from the value of money and pressure coming from the demand that people are shelling out to the company, the Halo 3 finale would speak of the existence of a Halo 4.
Akin to the movies, a director or a screen writer would never leave an open door unless he or she chooses to open a new window, a sequel, overtime. If you have stuck with Halo 3 all throughout its very end, you would notice that a continuation to the Master Chief story is very inevitable.
With these proofs, maybe your mind is now set into waiting for the launch date of this great epic game. But if you are still in doubt and you continually search for a more solid proof like the actual storyline of Halo part 4, stop what you are doing. You will never be able to locate such evidence.
Many have tried and failed in the process. A little heads up for the skeptics: like any good stories, a good type of video game takes a lot of time and effort to be told. So, be patient my friends eventually you will be in heaven as this magnificent game is released in the market.
An outbreak of news have been revolving as official announcements were made yet still no live proof of the next Halo game being played by the aspiring game players may it be through their personal computers or through Xbox. Bottom line, no shadow of this predicted Halo part has been found to exist.
If you are a deadly fanatic of the series, you may be one of those people who are thinking that the announcement was made due to peer pressure or that it will soon be discovered to be a hoax. Yet, a glimpse of hope is still shining within your very soul.
So, are there truths behind the accusations that Halo part 4 would soon be the historical game to be played in the near future? In order to calm you down and more or less create a sense of ease in your eagerness to play it, here are some of the points that would make you hold on tight to that gleaming hope from within.
First, the golden mechanism around the business industry is money. People cannot help but to invest in the creation of such magnificent game if they know that they would surely hit it off with huge financial benefits in the end. Money does make the world go round, you know.
This is especially true in the world of business. Halo creation and franchise mean money for Microsoft. If they try to change the entire series or abolish the series and start a fresh one, at the peak of their success, would be a huge stump on their common sense. Also, this actually does not make sense at all, if actions such as that would be initiated.
Microsoft has spent many years to popularize such brand and invested so much in the process. The next part of the Halo series does not simply speak of a particular brand of a game, for many, especially for the creators, it is the actual life among the living.
Secondly, Halo is considered to be one of the biggest video game being franchise in our planet. The past releases of the series would greatly give emphasis to such success. In 2008 alone, there was a massive hit in the release of Halo 3 together with GTA 4. Such high launched status has never been actually seen within the video game industry.
The different sales of this game, specifically the presales, depict high demand over such game. So why not continue such success with another part of the Halo series? Surely, Microsoft will not suddenly cut off a huge money and marketing drive from their system.
Lastly, aside from the value of money and pressure coming from the demand that people are shelling out to the company, the Halo 3 finale would speak of the existence of a Halo 4.
Akin to the movies, a director or a screen writer would never leave an open door unless he or she chooses to open a new window, a sequel, overtime. If you have stuck with Halo 3 all throughout its very end, you would notice that a continuation to the Master Chief story is very inevitable.
With these proofs, maybe your mind is now set into waiting for the launch date of this great epic game. But if you are still in doubt and you continually search for a more solid proof like the actual storyline of Halo part 4, stop what you are doing. You will never be able to locate such evidence.
Many have tried and failed in the process. A little heads up for the skeptics: like any good stories, a good type of video game takes a lot of time and effort to be told. So, be patient my friends eventually you will be in heaven as this magnificent game is released in the market.
Monday, June 6, 2011
How to Buy a Netbook
Don't give up on netbooks just yet. Netbook manufacturers are including more features, bigger screens and keyboards, and faster parts. We walk you through the latest trends and tell you what features really matter in a netbook.
The first batch of netbookz to hit the scene was greeted with awe and surprise. Thosetiny laptops, which were once sold at a premium, could be had for half the price of a typical system seemed incredible. Since then, the stakes have risen: The Apple iPad has proven that it can be the secondary web and email device, and in response to that, PC makers have shifted their attention from netbooks to tablets. Competition has grown fiercer, too. Netbook makers are including more features, bigger screens and keyboards, and faster parts—all while slashing prices like a Walmart special. These devices, which are already in many households, are also becoming increasingly popular among small business professionals and college students.
The choices, meanwhile, are coming from all sorts of household names, like ASUS, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. As a category, netbooks are such a diverse group that it's hard to come up with a single, all-encompassing definition. The best indicators that you're dealing with a netbook are a low price, light weight, and low-powered components. Likely the system will have a screen on the smaller side and a basic feature set. Still, netbooks vary in screen size, typing experience, and specialty features. And now the war is heating up between Intel and AMD at the component level. Despite all the look-alikes, there are certainly differences that warrant further explanation. Luckily, this netbook buying guide does just that.
Larger Screens, Bigger Keyboards
It's generally easy enough to tell a netbook from other laptops, but to distinguish between systems, you'll need to do a little homework. In the past, screen sizes defaulted to 10-inches with 1,024-by-600 resolutions on almost every single netbook. These days, netbooks are breaking away from this trend. Oversized netbooks like the HP Pavilion dm1z and Lenovo ThinkPad X120e are sold with 11.6-inch widescreens, while the Lenovo IdeaPad S12 (Ion) and the Asus EeePC 1215N are shipping with 12-inch ones. And their resolutions, as a result, are upped to HD-capable ones (1,366-by-768).
Once upon a time, full-sized keyboards were few and far between, but now they exist in netbooks as small as 10-inches. Case in point: The HP Mini 5103, Lenovo IdeaPad S10-3, and Acer Aspire One AOD255-1203 squeezed one in to their 10-inch frames. The vast majority of netbooks don't have full size keyboards (they usually range from 89 to 93 percent of a full-size), but expect that to change very quickly.
Usual Array of Features, Some Exceptions
You will find an abundance of USB ports, Webcams, card readers, and built-in Wi-Fi. Netbooks don't include optical drives or have great-sounding speakers, but they can acquire an internet connection in more than one way. An 802.11n WiFi chip and Ethernet port can be found in most netbooks, taking care of both your wireless and wired needs. Embedded 3G modems, which can use cellular signals to acquire broadband speeds, are available in the HP Mini 5103, Lenovo Thinkpad X120e, and the Acer One D255 (through AT&T). Mobile broadband is also available in USB form, which can be attached to anyone of the three USB ports that come with every one of these netbooks. An HDMI port, which simultaneously transmits audio and video to a flat-pane (via a cable), can be found in the HP dm1z, the Lenovo X120e, and the Asus 1215N.
Atom Platform, Mostly
You'll also find the Intel Atom platform, made up of the Atom processor, integrated graphics, and memory (usually 1GB) in almost every netbook. Although the Intel Atom processor is the most energy-efficient netbook processor out there, it's not the fastest. AMD is making waves with its new Fusion APUs, a combination of CPU and graphics cores on a single die—plenty of speed, minus the merciless battery-drains. These processors can already be found in netbooks like the HP dm1z and the Lenovo X120e.
Intel is already into its fourth generation of Atom processors, the most recent of which are the Atom N455 (1.66GHz) and the N475 (1.83GHz). These are single-core processors that have been updated with DDR3 memory support. The dual-core version—the Atom N550 (1.5GHz)—has also rolled out on the Acer D255-1203, the HP 5103, and the Samsung NF310-A01, improving performance by up to 20% (over the single-core Atom) without impacting battery life. Along with the Fusion APUs, these new netbook processors are arriving just in time for the back to school and holiday season.
What to Consider
Standard netbook batteries have standardized on 6-cell (48 to 63WH) units, but some vendors might try to sneak in a 3-cell battery (~30WH), so be wary of this. Our battery tests have shown that the smaller batteries will get you anywhere from 2 to 3 hours of battery life on a single charge, while the bigger ones range between 6 to 9 hours. If your activities include trips abroad and all-day classes, don't settle for anything smaller than a 6-cell battery.
You'll also find two hard drive choices, solid-state drives (SSDs) and spinning hard drives. The consensus is that spinning drives offer the best gigabyte-per-dollar ratio, and most of them start with at least 320GB of storage space. While SSDs have faster transfer speeds, are durable, and have longer life spans, they command much higher premiums than their spinning counterparts. In an extreme case, upgrading to a 128GB SSD in the HP 5103 will cost you an additional $450, more than the entire price of our review system.
Many of these netbooks will run fine on 1GB of memory. Most Intel-based netbooks can be upgraded to 2GB, provided you can make this simple upgrade yourself. Fusion-based models, like the HP dm1z and the Lenovo X120e, start with 3GB and 4GB, respectively, and can be upgraded to a whopping 8GB. For light 3D-gaming and full 1080p HD video playback, several of these netbooks are built around Nvidia's ION platform or use ATI's Mobility Radeon graphics cards.
What You Can Do With Them
Don't underestimate the capabilities of these machines. Netbooks are not just limited to Web surfing, compiling spreadsheets, or word processing. You can offload your photos from a digital camera and edit them using a program like Adobe Photoshop Elements 7. With lots of patience, you can transcode videos to another format or edit them using complex video editing packages.
You can run your entire music library off of a program like Apple iTunes or Windows Media Player. A netbook can play video from sites like YouTube or a movie from an external USB drive, unmarred by distortions and lag. Businesses, too, are considering these pint-size laptops because you can run various e-mail clients, put them on a network, install a VPN client, and secure them with antivirus and antispyware suites.
At the price points we're seeing in the netbook market—namely $300 to $550—sex appeal isn't off limits either on a netbook. The HP 5103 has a sleek-looking aluminum frame, while the Toshiba NB500 Series uses colors and textures in its favor. As for the future of netbooks: As long as manufacturers can keep the price down, the sky is the limit. Check out our reviews of the latest netbooks on the market in our Netbook product guide.
The first batch of netbookz to hit the scene was greeted with awe and surprise. Thosetiny laptops, which were once sold at a premium, could be had for half the price of a typical system seemed incredible. Since then, the stakes have risen: The Apple iPad has proven that it can be the secondary web and email device, and in response to that, PC makers have shifted their attention from netbooks to tablets. Competition has grown fiercer, too. Netbook makers are including more features, bigger screens and keyboards, and faster parts—all while slashing prices like a Walmart special. These devices, which are already in many households, are also becoming increasingly popular among small business professionals and college students.
The choices, meanwhile, are coming from all sorts of household names, like ASUS, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. As a category, netbooks are such a diverse group that it's hard to come up with a single, all-encompassing definition. The best indicators that you're dealing with a netbook are a low price, light weight, and low-powered components. Likely the system will have a screen on the smaller side and a basic feature set. Still, netbooks vary in screen size, typing experience, and specialty features. And now the war is heating up between Intel and AMD at the component level. Despite all the look-alikes, there are certainly differences that warrant further explanation. Luckily, this netbook buying guide does just that.
Larger Screens, Bigger Keyboards
It's generally easy enough to tell a netbook from other laptops, but to distinguish between systems, you'll need to do a little homework. In the past, screen sizes defaulted to 10-inches with 1,024-by-600 resolutions on almost every single netbook. These days, netbooks are breaking away from this trend. Oversized netbooks like the HP Pavilion dm1z and Lenovo ThinkPad X120e are sold with 11.6-inch widescreens, while the Lenovo IdeaPad S12 (Ion) and the Asus EeePC 1215N are shipping with 12-inch ones. And their resolutions, as a result, are upped to HD-capable ones (1,366-by-768).
Once upon a time, full-sized keyboards were few and far between, but now they exist in netbooks as small as 10-inches. Case in point: The HP Mini 5103, Lenovo IdeaPad S10-3, and Acer Aspire One AOD255-1203 squeezed one in to their 10-inch frames. The vast majority of netbooks don't have full size keyboards (they usually range from 89 to 93 percent of a full-size), but expect that to change very quickly.
Usual Array of Features, Some Exceptions
You will find an abundance of USB ports, Webcams, card readers, and built-in Wi-Fi. Netbooks don't include optical drives or have great-sounding speakers, but they can acquire an internet connection in more than one way. An 802.11n WiFi chip and Ethernet port can be found in most netbooks, taking care of both your wireless and wired needs. Embedded 3G modems, which can use cellular signals to acquire broadband speeds, are available in the HP Mini 5103, Lenovo Thinkpad X120e, and the Acer One D255 (through AT&T). Mobile broadband is also available in USB form, which can be attached to anyone of the three USB ports that come with every one of these netbooks. An HDMI port, which simultaneously transmits audio and video to a flat-pane (via a cable), can be found in the HP dm1z, the Lenovo X120e, and the Asus 1215N.
Atom Platform, Mostly
You'll also find the Intel Atom platform, made up of the Atom processor, integrated graphics, and memory (usually 1GB) in almost every netbook. Although the Intel Atom processor is the most energy-efficient netbook processor out there, it's not the fastest. AMD is making waves with its new Fusion APUs, a combination of CPU and graphics cores on a single die—plenty of speed, minus the merciless battery-drains. These processors can already be found in netbooks like the HP dm1z and the Lenovo X120e.
Intel is already into its fourth generation of Atom processors, the most recent of which are the Atom N455 (1.66GHz) and the N475 (1.83GHz). These are single-core processors that have been updated with DDR3 memory support. The dual-core version—the Atom N550 (1.5GHz)—has also rolled out on the Acer D255-1203, the HP 5103, and the Samsung NF310-A01, improving performance by up to 20% (over the single-core Atom) without impacting battery life. Along with the Fusion APUs, these new netbook processors are arriving just in time for the back to school and holiday season.
What to Consider
Standard netbook batteries have standardized on 6-cell (48 to 63WH) units, but some vendors might try to sneak in a 3-cell battery (~30WH), so be wary of this. Our battery tests have shown that the smaller batteries will get you anywhere from 2 to 3 hours of battery life on a single charge, while the bigger ones range between 6 to 9 hours. If your activities include trips abroad and all-day classes, don't settle for anything smaller than a 6-cell battery.
You'll also find two hard drive choices, solid-state drives (SSDs) and spinning hard drives. The consensus is that spinning drives offer the best gigabyte-per-dollar ratio, and most of them start with at least 320GB of storage space. While SSDs have faster transfer speeds, are durable, and have longer life spans, they command much higher premiums than their spinning counterparts. In an extreme case, upgrading to a 128GB SSD in the HP 5103 will cost you an additional $450, more than the entire price of our review system.
Many of these netbooks will run fine on 1GB of memory. Most Intel-based netbooks can be upgraded to 2GB, provided you can make this simple upgrade yourself. Fusion-based models, like the HP dm1z and the Lenovo X120e, start with 3GB and 4GB, respectively, and can be upgraded to a whopping 8GB. For light 3D-gaming and full 1080p HD video playback, several of these netbooks are built around Nvidia's ION platform or use ATI's Mobility Radeon graphics cards.
What You Can Do With Them
Don't underestimate the capabilities of these machines. Netbooks are not just limited to Web surfing, compiling spreadsheets, or word processing. You can offload your photos from a digital camera and edit them using a program like Adobe Photoshop Elements 7. With lots of patience, you can transcode videos to another format or edit them using complex video editing packages.
You can run your entire music library off of a program like Apple iTunes or Windows Media Player. A netbook can play video from sites like YouTube or a movie from an external USB drive, unmarred by distortions and lag. Businesses, too, are considering these pint-size laptops because you can run various e-mail clients, put them on a network, install a VPN client, and secure them with antivirus and antispyware suites.
At the price points we're seeing in the netbook market—namely $300 to $550—sex appeal isn't off limits either on a netbook. The HP 5103 has a sleek-looking aluminum frame, while the Toshiba NB500 Series uses colors and textures in its favor. As for the future of netbooks: As long as manufacturers can keep the price down, the sky is the limit. Check out our reviews of the latest netbooks on the market in our Netbook product guide.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
What Are The Different Kinds Of DVD Formats?
DVDs have been taking over the recording industries nowadays. Many prefer using it because of its higher recording capacity than the other types of recording devices. Also, it has the newest technology that many people prefer.
Well, not all people are knowledgeable about these DVDs. Some just use it and end up making a mistake in recording or storing data because they don't know how to use and store in these DVDs and they don't know the right format to use. And because there are different types of DVD format, not all DVD drive are compatible with all of them. Some needs a specific DVD drive for it to work and for you to store and record data on it. But as a general fact, all DVD drive can read all DVD format. It's just that, you cannot use it to record on that DVD if it is not compatible.
Now, if that was the case, let us have a better view on the different kinds of video format.
* DVD-R for General. This kind of DVD format is the one being use by many people and is consider to be the format for general use. But, this kind of DVD doesn't have a security and protection features.
* DVD-R for Authoring. This format is the counterpart of the one mentioned above. It has a security features and the data you record on it will be protected against unauthorized copying.
* DVD RAM. This kind of format is not quite similar with the other format but works just the same as them. It has a special feature wherein you can already view the one that you have been recorded earlier while you are currently recording on it.
* DVD+RW. This is the newest addition to the DVD formats. It is considered to be the most compatible DVD format among the other because it can be used to almost all DVD drive and player.
Well, not all people are knowledgeable about these DVDs. Some just use it and end up making a mistake in recording or storing data because they don't know how to use and store in these DVDs and they don't know the right format to use. And because there are different types of DVD format, not all DVD drive are compatible with all of them. Some needs a specific DVD drive for it to work and for you to store and record data on it. But as a general fact, all DVD drive can read all DVD format. It's just that, you cannot use it to record on that DVD if it is not compatible.
Now, if that was the case, let us have a better view on the different kinds of video format.
* DVD-R for General. This kind of DVD format is the one being use by many people and is consider to be the format for general use. But, this kind of DVD doesn't have a security and protection features.
* DVD-R for Authoring. This format is the counterpart of the one mentioned above. It has a security features and the data you record on it will be protected against unauthorized copying.
* DVD RAM. This kind of format is not quite similar with the other format but works just the same as them. It has a special feature wherein you can already view the one that you have been recorded earlier while you are currently recording on it.
* DVD+RW. This is the newest addition to the DVD formats. It is considered to be the most compatible DVD format among the other because it can be used to almost all DVD drive and player.
Modern LCD/LED Tvs Are Highly Practical in Use
Display technology has travelled a long technological distance from the days of cathode array tube based display devices to the most modern LCD/LED/SED and plasma displays. It was only recently that the CRT TV sales worldwide were beaten by the LCD TVs signalling that the times of the CRT display are numbered and that the modern displays are being increasing adopted by the people. For the technical person, the difference between the two technologies is immense but for the consumers it is the easy-to-use and easy-to-manage nature of these appliances that matter the most. No wonder that most of the top names in the consumer electronics products are spending fortunes to be the leaders in the cutting edge display technologies.
For the layman who does not understand the meaning of these technology terms, the difference is there to be seen. The good old Samsung TV would be bulky since it has the picture tube in it but the new LCD/LED TVs would be slim and sleek with flat displays. And, you do not have to buy a trolley for keeping the new ones. These can be fixed on the walls. In this way, you save the considerable space for moving around. These are perfect for small spaces. Due their being slim, these are easy to carry as compared to the bulky ones. It is also a fact that the picture quality of these displays is better than the previous ones. This has largely to do with the high definition resolution levels compatibility of these displays and also with the use of the latest display technology.
While getting the modern slim TVs installed in the homes or office, the points of their placement are to be duly considered. These shall be placed at the right places on the walls. The placement shall preferably be straight for most of the viewers since these are not visually appealing when these are viewed from the side angles. This is one aspect where the CRT scores over the modern LCD/LED ones. CRT based Samsung TV will give the same picture irrespective of the place or angle from where you view it.
Plasma TVs are yet another innovation in the display technology. There are more long lasting than the LCD/LED ones. The only disadvantage that these currently face is that the impressions of the last images remain on the screen for a long time even after the TV is switched off. The companies are making efforts to get over this drawback.
There is no doubt that the modern TVs are an improvement over the others, both in terms of technology as well as user experience. It is also a fact that these are more practical to use. That is also the reason why most of the modern homes use these for setting up modern systems like the home theatre. These have also taken the wall space of organisations where these find good application in lobby, waiting rooms, visitor's areas and other such area where the works not going on.
For the layman who does not understand the meaning of these technology terms, the difference is there to be seen. The good old Samsung TV would be bulky since it has the picture tube in it but the new LCD/LED TVs would be slim and sleek with flat displays. And, you do not have to buy a trolley for keeping the new ones. These can be fixed on the walls. In this way, you save the considerable space for moving around. These are perfect for small spaces. Due their being slim, these are easy to carry as compared to the bulky ones. It is also a fact that the picture quality of these displays is better than the previous ones. This has largely to do with the high definition resolution levels compatibility of these displays and also with the use of the latest display technology.
While getting the modern slim TVs installed in the homes or office, the points of their placement are to be duly considered. These shall be placed at the right places on the walls. The placement shall preferably be straight for most of the viewers since these are not visually appealing when these are viewed from the side angles. This is one aspect where the CRT scores over the modern LCD/LED ones. CRT based Samsung TV will give the same picture irrespective of the place or angle from where you view it.
Plasma TVs are yet another innovation in the display technology. There are more long lasting than the LCD/LED ones. The only disadvantage that these currently face is that the impressions of the last images remain on the screen for a long time even after the TV is switched off. The companies are making efforts to get over this drawback.
There is no doubt that the modern TVs are an improvement over the others, both in terms of technology as well as user experience. It is also a fact that these are more practical to use. That is also the reason why most of the modern homes use these for setting up modern systems like the home theatre. These have also taken the wall space of organisations where these find good application in lobby, waiting rooms, visitor's areas and other such area where the works not going on.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Things to Consider When Choosing a Security Certification
CompTIA's Security+ certification is a globally-recognized, vendor neutral a certification exam that has helped over 60,000 IT professionals reach further and higher in their careers. The current Security+ exam (SY0-201) focuses more on being able to deal with security issues rather than just identifying them.
The new exam covers six major topics: Systems Security, Network Infrastructure, Access Control, Assessments and Audits, Cryptography, and Organizational Security.
This third edition has been updated to follow and cover the new exam objectives. After reading this book not only will you be able to pass the exam but you will have a working knowledge of cryptography, security legislation, vulnerability assessments, logical access control methods, and much more.
Complete exam-prep package includes full coverage of new security+ certification objectives and two complete practice exams
Authored by a leading Microsoft security expert.
A good reference for both beginning security professionals and a seasoned IT person, this book goes beyond the exam objectives to cover the technology, and how that technology is currently being deployed in the business world and what the future of the technology may be. These insights provide the reader a look "inside" security, both today and in the future.
One important aspect to keep in mind regarding security certifications is the requirement to keep updated and current. While many other types of certification are not so strict on re-certification, the security field is one where the challenges to the industry can change rapidly - so the re-certification interval is definitely something to keep in mind if not for any other reason than the cost of updating.
Another thing worth remembering is that this is big business for the providers of these certifications. By the time you factor in exam fees, training courses, study material, licencing factors etc., you can see that there is big money to be made by the respective parties. To that end you're likely to come across a lot of marketing information promoting the various benefits of each certification. Each will claim theirs is the best and offers the best market opportunities. Take their claims with a pinch of salt and do your own research into what each exam focuses on. Take your time to decide what the market is looking for (research job boards, talk to Microsoft exam I.T. managers, etc.) and look through the exam objectives of each offering to see if it compliments the direction you wish to take. Do your homework first and you'll undoubtedly save yourself time, money and perhaps a little sanity.
The new exam covers six major topics: Systems Security, Network Infrastructure, Access Control, Assessments and Audits, Cryptography, and Organizational Security.
This third edition has been updated to follow and cover the new exam objectives. After reading this book not only will you be able to pass the exam but you will have a working knowledge of cryptography, security legislation, vulnerability assessments, logical access control methods, and much more.
Complete exam-prep package includes full coverage of new security+ certification objectives and two complete practice exams
Authored by a leading Microsoft security expert.
A good reference for both beginning security professionals and a seasoned IT person, this book goes beyond the exam objectives to cover the technology, and how that technology is currently being deployed in the business world and what the future of the technology may be. These insights provide the reader a look "inside" security, both today and in the future.
One important aspect to keep in mind regarding security certifications is the requirement to keep updated and current. While many other types of certification are not so strict on re-certification, the security field is one where the challenges to the industry can change rapidly - so the re-certification interval is definitely something to keep in mind if not for any other reason than the cost of updating.
Another thing worth remembering is that this is big business for the providers of these certifications. By the time you factor in exam fees, training courses, study material, licencing factors etc., you can see that there is big money to be made by the respective parties. To that end you're likely to come across a lot of marketing information promoting the various benefits of each certification. Each will claim theirs is the best and offers the best market opportunities. Take their claims with a pinch of salt and do your own research into what each exam focuses on. Take your time to decide what the market is looking for (research job boards, talk to Microsoft exam I.T. managers, etc.) and look through the exam objectives of each offering to see if it compliments the direction you wish to take. Do your homework first and you'll undoubtedly save yourself time, money and perhaps a little sanity.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
CompTIA A Plus PC Support Training Compared
Four specialist training areas feature in the complete CompTIA A+ course, but you're just required to achieve pass marks in 2 to gain A+ competency. Be aware though that limiting yourself to 2 of the four specialities could expose flaws in your knowledge when applying for a job. At least learn about all four - for greater confidence in the world of work.
Alongside being taught how to build PC's and fix them, students on A+ courses will be shown how to operate in antistatic conditions, along with remote access, fault finding and diagnostics. If you feel it appropriate to add Network+ training, you'll additionally be equipped to assist with or manage networks of computers, meaning you're in a position to command a higher salary.
Including exams up-front and offering an 'Exam Guarantee' is a popular marketing tool with a good many training companies. But let's examine why they really do it:
You're paying for it one way or another. It certainly isn't free - it's just been rolled into the price of the whole package. Evidence shows that when trainees fund their relevant examinations, one after the other, there's a much better chance they'll pass first time - since they'll think of their investment in themselves and therefore will put more effort into their preparation.
Does it really add up to pay your training course provider in advance for exams? Go for the best offer when you take the exam, rather than coughing up months or even a year or two in advance - and do it locally - instead of miles away at the college's beck and call. Why tie up your cash (or borrow more than you need) for exams when there's absolutely nothing that says you have to? A lot of profit is secured by training companies getting money in early for exam fees - and banking on the fact that many won't be taken. Re-takes of any failed exams with training companies who offer an 'Exam Guarantee' inevitably are heavily regulated. You will be required to do mock exams to make sure they think you're going to pass.
Exam fees averaged approximately 112 pounds twelve months or so ago via VUE or Pro-metric centres in the UK. So why pay hundreds or thousands of pounds extra to have 'an Exam Guarantee', when any student knows that what's really needed is a commitment to studying and the use of authorised exam preparation tools.
Chat with almost any practiced consultant and they'll entertain you with many awful tales of how students have been duped by salespeople. Make sure you deal with an experienced advisor that digs deep to find out what's right for you - not for their bank-account! Dig until you find a starting-point that will suit you. Often, the training start-point for someone with some experience can be substantially different to the student with no experience. It's usual to start with some basic user skills first. This can set the scene for your on-going studies and make the learning curve a bit more manageable.
IT has become one of the more thrilling and changing industries that you could be a part of. Being up close and personal with technology is to do your bit in the gigantic changes shaping life over the next few decades. We've barely started to get a feel for how technology is going to shape our lives. Computers and the Internet will profoundly transform how we view and interact with the world as a whole over the next few years.
Let's not forget that on average, the income of a person in the IT industry over Britain as a whole is significantly better than remuneration packages in other industries, therefore you will probably gain much more as an IT specialist, than you'd expect to earn elsewhere. The need for properly certified IT professionals is guaranteed for a good while yet, because of the continuous expansion in IT dependency in commerce and the vast shortage still in existence.
Commercial qualifications are now, without a doubt, starting to replace the more academic tracks into IT - why then is this? Corporate based study (as it's known in the industry) is far more effective and specialised. The IT sector is aware that such specialised knowledge is what's needed to meet the requirements of an increasingly more technical workplace. Microsoft, CompTIA, CISCO and Adobe are the dominant players. Vendor training works through honing in on the particular skills that are needed (together with an appropriate level of background knowledge,) instead of going into the heightened depths of background detail and 'fluff' that degrees in computing are prone to get tied up in - to fill a three or four year course.
Put yourself in the employer's position - and your company needed a person with some very particular skills. What's the simplest way to find the right person: Wade your way through reams of different degrees and college qualifications from various applicants, asking for course details and which vocational skills they've acquired, or choose a specific set of accreditations that precisely match your needs, and then select who you want to interview from that. You'll then be able to concentrate on getting a feel for the person at interview - rather than establishing whether they can do a specific task.
Alongside being taught how to build PC's and fix them, students on A+ courses will be shown how to operate in antistatic conditions, along with remote access, fault finding and diagnostics. If you feel it appropriate to add Network+ training, you'll additionally be equipped to assist with or manage networks of computers, meaning you're in a position to command a higher salary.
Including exams up-front and offering an 'Exam Guarantee' is a popular marketing tool with a good many training companies. But let's examine why they really do it:
You're paying for it one way or another. It certainly isn't free - it's just been rolled into the price of the whole package. Evidence shows that when trainees fund their relevant examinations, one after the other, there's a much better chance they'll pass first time - since they'll think of their investment in themselves and therefore will put more effort into their preparation.
Does it really add up to pay your training course provider in advance for exams? Go for the best offer when you take the exam, rather than coughing up months or even a year or two in advance - and do it locally - instead of miles away at the college's beck and call. Why tie up your cash (or borrow more than you need) for exams when there's absolutely nothing that says you have to? A lot of profit is secured by training companies getting money in early for exam fees - and banking on the fact that many won't be taken. Re-takes of any failed exams with training companies who offer an 'Exam Guarantee' inevitably are heavily regulated. You will be required to do mock exams to make sure they think you're going to pass.
Exam fees averaged approximately 112 pounds twelve months or so ago via VUE or Pro-metric centres in the UK. So why pay hundreds or thousands of pounds extra to have 'an Exam Guarantee', when any student knows that what's really needed is a commitment to studying and the use of authorised exam preparation tools.
Chat with almost any practiced consultant and they'll entertain you with many awful tales of how students have been duped by salespeople. Make sure you deal with an experienced advisor that digs deep to find out what's right for you - not for their bank-account! Dig until you find a starting-point that will suit you. Often, the training start-point for someone with some experience can be substantially different to the student with no experience. It's usual to start with some basic user skills first. This can set the scene for your on-going studies and make the learning curve a bit more manageable.
IT has become one of the more thrilling and changing industries that you could be a part of. Being up close and personal with technology is to do your bit in the gigantic changes shaping life over the next few decades. We've barely started to get a feel for how technology is going to shape our lives. Computers and the Internet will profoundly transform how we view and interact with the world as a whole over the next few years.
Let's not forget that on average, the income of a person in the IT industry over Britain as a whole is significantly better than remuneration packages in other industries, therefore you will probably gain much more as an IT specialist, than you'd expect to earn elsewhere. The need for properly certified IT professionals is guaranteed for a good while yet, because of the continuous expansion in IT dependency in commerce and the vast shortage still in existence.
Commercial qualifications are now, without a doubt, starting to replace the more academic tracks into IT - why then is this? Corporate based study (as it's known in the industry) is far more effective and specialised. The IT sector is aware that such specialised knowledge is what's needed to meet the requirements of an increasingly more technical workplace. Microsoft, CompTIA, CISCO and Adobe are the dominant players. Vendor training works through honing in on the particular skills that are needed (together with an appropriate level of background knowledge,) instead of going into the heightened depths of background detail and 'fluff' that degrees in computing are prone to get tied up in - to fill a three or four year course.
Put yourself in the employer's position - and your company needed a person with some very particular skills. What's the simplest way to find the right person: Wade your way through reams of different degrees and college qualifications from various applicants, asking for course details and which vocational skills they've acquired, or choose a specific set of accreditations that precisely match your needs, and then select who you want to interview from that. You'll then be able to concentrate on getting a feel for the person at interview - rather than establishing whether they can do a specific task.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
OpenERP launches latest version of its open enterprise resource planning suite
Belgium-based commercial open source software vendor OpenERP today announced the availability of OpenERP v6, the latest version of the company's enterprise resource planning (ERP) suite. OpenERP v6 includes updates to almost all of the components in the suite, including its CRM, Purchase Management, Manufacturing, Warehouse Management, Project Management, Accounting, Marketing, Human Resources, and Point of Sale modules.
OpenERP Web Interface:
OpenERP says this version has more than a hundred new features in total, which are the result of thousands of customer and community suggestions and more than a year's worth of development from its community of 800 individual developers.
For those who have never experienced OpenERP, the company has set up a demo server where you can play around with examples of the different software modules. The idea is that customers can build a comprehensive ERP system one module at a time, eventually growing it into an end to end solution, contained within a single piece of software.
OpenERP v6 costs $39 per user per month and comes with a 1GB per user data limitation. Like previous versions, it can be deployed on site, and this version brings with it an SaaS on-demand version.
"We believe that SaaS and Open Source are an interesting combination. The customers always have an option if for any reason the SaaS platform no longer meets their needs. It is their insurance policy, and it is in line with our no lock-in policy," Mark Laporte, OpenERP's Chief Operations Officer said in a statement today. "Our competitors will never offer such flexibility".
OpenERP Web Interface:
OpenERP says this version has more than a hundred new features in total, which are the result of thousands of customer and community suggestions and more than a year's worth of development from its community of 800 individual developers.
For those who have never experienced OpenERP, the company has set up a demo server where you can play around with examples of the different software modules. The idea is that customers can build a comprehensive ERP system one module at a time, eventually growing it into an end to end solution, contained within a single piece of software.
OpenERP v6 costs $39 per user per month and comes with a 1GB per user data limitation. Like previous versions, it can be deployed on site, and this version brings with it an SaaS on-demand version.
"We believe that SaaS and Open Source are an interesting combination. The customers always have an option if for any reason the SaaS platform no longer meets their needs. It is their insurance policy, and it is in line with our no lock-in policy," Mark Laporte, OpenERP's Chief Operations Officer said in a statement today. "Our competitors will never offer such flexibility".
Death by Facebook: MySpace bids expected, Friendster transitions
Bids are expected to be received for social networking site MySpace by the end of the week, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday. News Corp, which acquired the site in 2005 for $580 billion, is said to be seeking bids of at least $100 billion for the site.
At least a half-dozen companies are said to be considering bids, including several equity firms and Criterion Capital Partners LLC, owners of social networking site Bebo. The structures of the deals are not known although it is said that some include News Corp retaining a small stake.
The news confirms comments made in January by CEO Mike Jones that the company was considering a sale. What interested parties plan to do with the site is unknown: it may continue to operate as it currently has or be merged into an existing property.
Video site Vevo has also been rumored to have shown interest although it is believed to have backed away from making a deal, the WSJ reports. Either way, it appears that News Corp is set to take a major hit on its now six-year-old investment -- a victim of the meteoric rise of Facebook.
As usage of that social networking site exploded, interest among consumers in MySpace waned. Last month it had 36.1 million unique visitors, half of what it had just a year before and its lowest traffic total since shortly after the merger occurred. Even an attempted refocus was not the solution to MySpace's woes.
That effort, announced in October, switched the focus away from social networking among friends and turned MySpace into an entertainment hub. So far, there has been little evidence that the change has stopped the site's slide into irrelevancy, unfortunately.
In related news, another social networking site is also exiting the business. Friendster announced this week that it would delete most profile information after May 31, as it looks to transition into a gaming site. The company was one of the pioneers in the social networking space when it first launched in 2002, but found itself first trumped by the rise of MySpace and then later by Facebook.
At least a half-dozen companies are said to be considering bids, including several equity firms and Criterion Capital Partners LLC, owners of social networking site Bebo. The structures of the deals are not known although it is said that some include News Corp retaining a small stake.
The news confirms comments made in January by CEO Mike Jones that the company was considering a sale. What interested parties plan to do with the site is unknown: it may continue to operate as it currently has or be merged into an existing property.
Video site Vevo has also been rumored to have shown interest although it is believed to have backed away from making a deal, the WSJ reports. Either way, it appears that News Corp is set to take a major hit on its now six-year-old investment -- a victim of the meteoric rise of Facebook.
As usage of that social networking site exploded, interest among consumers in MySpace waned. Last month it had 36.1 million unique visitors, half of what it had just a year before and its lowest traffic total since shortly after the merger occurred. Even an attempted refocus was not the solution to MySpace's woes.
That effort, announced in October, switched the focus away from social networking among friends and turned MySpace into an entertainment hub. So far, there has been little evidence that the change has stopped the site's slide into irrelevancy, unfortunately.
In related news, another social networking site is also exiting the business. Friendster announced this week that it would delete most profile information after May 31, as it looks to transition into a gaming site. The company was one of the pioneers in the social networking space when it first launched in 2002, but found itself first trumped by the rise of MySpace and then later by Facebook.
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