Who invented the computer mouse?

Douglas Engelbart is the inventor of the computer mouse.  Thought i would help a few people here…having always been fascinated by computers and inventions, i started to research who invented the computer mouse. People often overlook the computer peripherals and the computer mouse is one that everyone assumes was invented at the same time as the computer and by the same person!

Don’t Use Norton Anti-Virus!

I was told by a computer expert the other day not to use Norton Anti-Virus on my PC. I have to admit, i had some problems with it when i used it a few years back. If you want to protect your computer for free, my partner recommends AVG. Otherwise, invest in a name like McAffee.

Refurbished Computers: Saving You Money

Before you buy your next computer you may want to consider looking at refurbished computers. Refurbished computers offer the customer an opportunity to purchase a top grade PC at a reduced price because it has been refurbished.  Just think of it as “used”, but it can still last you for years.

Refurbished computers are available to buy online and they will save you money if you just need a quick computer solution. Naturally, if you want be doubly sure about reliability then you may want to purchase a brand new one or slightly used computer. Refurbished does mean that it has been opened up and taken apart, so if this puts you off, then don’t risk it.

How To Prevent Your Laptop Being Stolen…

Its something we all worry about. If you’re travelling somewhere with your laptop then there is potential for it to get stolen. It could be a very expensive laptop or even a reasonably priced one – to thieves, it doesn’t matter. When it comes to laptops, the data they hold is far more important than the cost, and just as those important documents are important to you, they are also important to thieves, because they can probably obtain your personal data.

Its easy done of course, leaving your laptop in its carry case beside your seat on the train. If its busy, keeping your eye on things can be difficult and you never know who is lurking nearby. Here’s a few tips to prevent your laptop being stolen:

• Keep your laptop with you at all times; never put it down or ask someone to “watch” it for you while you run to a shop.
• Think about the size of your laptop;. the smaller it is, the more likely it is to get stolen
• Of course, there is the latest thing hitting the laptop world that can stop your laptop being stolen. It shouts  “Get your hands off me, I have been stolen” which might deter some thieves!
• Avoid travelling with your laptop unless you really need to. I don’t just mean on public transport, but in the car too. If you park your car and your laptop is visible to passers-by, there is potential for them to break into your car and steal it. The trend isn’t to steal car radios anymore – its to steal the extras in the car, like mobile phones, laptops etc.

It might sound logical, but so many people fall victim to laptop theft and even if you just take some precautions, you can reduce the chances that your laptop will get stolen.

You can read more about the laptop that declares its been stolen(the latest technology) here: LAPTOP THEFT

Be Careful With Your Laptop On Public Transport!

PS3 or Nintendo Wii?

I am curious to know which is the most popular out of the PS3 or Nintendo Wii…

I know lots of people that have the Wii, but not as many that have the PS3. Not sure why…could be the price. I mean, you just seem to get so much more for your money with a Wii – for around £179 you can get the Wii with Wii Sports. Seems like a quite a good deal when you think that the PS3 costs considerably more.

I dont have either, but i was thinking of getting the Wii. Might treat myself…but then, it does all come down to Guitar Hero…which console is best to play Guitar Hero on? I’ve played it on my friend’s PS3 but not on the Wii, so i’m a bit undecided.

So, the PS3 or the Nintendo Wii? Only time will tell which i decide to buy! Any tips would be greatly appreciated!

Phishing Emails: Know What To Look For

Phishing emails are fast becoming a nuisance. Whenever i open my hotmail inbox i find approximately 1 phishing email a day from various sources trying to get my personal details and/or card details. This is frustrating, because you start to question what emails are genuine. Here’s a few tips to help you out with spotting phishing emails:

• Not Always In Junk Mail- It is important to remember that not all phishing emails go straight to your junk mail. Sometimes, they can end up in your inbox, so be careful.
• Don’t Recognise? Don’t Open -If you don’t recognise who the email is from, then avoid opening it. Sometimes, all you need to do is click on these phishing emails and it can obtain your details.
• Check The Sender Address – It is crucial that when you open an email you look at the sender details. For example, i nearly got burnt once when i saw i had an email from PayPal. I opened it up and MSN Hotmail warned me it could be dangerous. I looked at the sender address and it said: “from:Service735352@paypal.co.uk” and i immediately knew it was dodgy.

So, if you try and follow these few simple steps, it could help to ensure you’re not the next victim of phishing emails. There are some sick people out there who try to get your details via the Internet and it is crucial you are selective about who you give your email address out to.

HOW TO DELETE COOKIES: The Info You Need

Quite simply:

1. Go to “Tools” at the top of your Internet Browser

2. Click Delete Browsing History

3. Click Delete Cookies

All sorted, that is how you delete cookies!

Computer Problem: Computer Keeps Freezing

If your computer keeps freezing, there could be many possibilities as to why this is happening. Firstly, check that you do not have too many computer programs running at the same time. If you have large applications such as Photoshop or Dreamweaver, running these alongside your other basic programs may the reason that your computer keeps freezing.

Check that you don’t have a spammy website open. Sometimes, a bad site can crash your computer and/or make it freeze, so only open trusted websites to ensure you keep your computer running smoothly.

You could have a computer application that isn’t compatible with your system, so only download and install programs that are suited to your system.

If your computer keeps freezing, the worst case scenario might be that you have a virus. Check that you have up-to-date internet security and run regular updates.

Sometimes, it may be that your computer keeps freezing simply because its tired. Turn it off and let it have a rest for a while then restart and you should be good to go.

Good luck!

Student Computers – Where To Buy A Cheap Computer?

When at University, keep your eyes peeled for notices about student computers and student laptops. They are available for you to buy at a discounted rate when you are a student, so take advantage while you can!

There’s no need to pay high street prices when you can buy a slightly used student computer packed full of all the applications you need to get your assignments in on time.

Check out your Univesity / School or College today!

how do i get rid of spyware and adware for free?

Download the latest ant-virus software for FREE from AVG or Avast

www.avast.com/

free.avg.com/

What Is Malware?

Malware is basically an abbreviated name for “Malicious Software”. It cam get into your computer without your consent and cause a whole host of disruptive elements. Its damage varies depending on how bad it the malware virus is.

Find out more HERE: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malware

Pink Laptops: Would You Want One?

Pink laptops are definitely a desired taste; they certainly aren’t for everyone, but for tech-savvy young women, pink laptops are perfect.

I have a friend who recently splashed out on a lush pink laptop for herself. She loves it, but admits it doesn’t do much! Be careful not to buy a laptop purely based on aesthetics; check out what it can do and if it will be good for what you need it for. Some people actually get drawn in by colours and overlook the functionality factor.

I just recommend spending a few more £ and getting something really good. You can buy one direct from Sony:

PINK LAPTOPS

Old Computers: What To Do With Them?

Many of us get a bit confused when we think about what to do with our old computers. You cant just put them in the kitchen bin and hope the binmen will take it away. So, here’s a few tips.

If your computer is definitely “kaput” and useless, for quick relief, take it to your local tip, where you will find many people do the same thing with their unwanted appliances etc. Its free and it means you can free up some space at home.

Alternatively, you might want to advertise it for sale. That’s if it still has some life left in it!! Put it on eBay, or in your local paper. You may find a buyer who wants to use it for parts.

If you simply want to upgrade your computer and you need rid of your old computer asap, why not give it to someone who could use it? Students, school children or any relatives are good people to consider. Perhaps you have elderly relatives who have never owned a computer but have always been intrigued by what they do…now is the time to bring them up to date! Give them a computer that they can play around on and they will love you forever

There are plenty of ways to dispose of your old computers, just be sensible and never just “dump” them outside. Electrical equipment should always be disposed of properly.

Second Hand Computers: Are You Interested?

A lot of my friends are now looking into buying second hand computers because they are cheaper and, in these credit crunch times, are great for keeping costs down.

I think most people think that if you don’t spend an extortionate amount on a computer then you wont get the best. However, this is not always true. You can pay less and still get a great computer that does everything you need it to, just at a more reasonable price. Second hand computers can offer loads of benefits. Are you a student at University? By getting a second hand computer you can pay less for a great machine that will see you through your University years.

Second hand computers are also great for parts. Some people buy them just so they can pull them apart and take out all the “good bits” This is a great idea if you know what you’re doing and know the intricate workings of a computer like the back of your hand!

Second hand computers can offer up a whole host of benefits, so maybe you should look into buying one? They cost less than a brand new computer, and only the hardcore computer geeks need a computer that does everything and then some…for most of us, a computer with a good amount of storage and applications will suffice.

The Love Of All Things Slim…2009 Technology

When it comes to computers and gadgets, you can never be too thin. A bit like in the modelling world; thin is always regarded as best. However, paradoxically unlike the computer world, being thin is not always regraded as the best way to be.

Many people berate fashion designers who choose to use anorexic or size 0 models, as it promotes a false image of how society should be. When it comes to computers though, being thin is the only way to be seen.

With a huge array of slim gadgets etc leading the technology market these days, it is easy to see why people are opting for these designs. Space saving and compact, why go for something 3x the size when you don’t need to? Indeed, we will all soon be choosing thin over anything else.

Everything is getting smaller – from the slimmest Apple notebook to it’s obvious rivals, there is no escaping the “thin phenomenon”.

And its not just the thin appeal – being portable is the demand for many, so when you are looking to buy a laptop, naturally you want something smallish and something that will easily move around. Plus, you can have everything built in, from Skype to a webcam, so there really is no need to go for anything larger than you can use. If this sounds like your kind of thing, then you need to be looking at the netbook.

It is estimated that about 10% of all portable computer sales in 2008 were netbooks, which shows just how this little gadget is starting to take the technology market reigns.

Will you be the next to indulge?

You can read  more here…

http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2009/jan/04/technology-in-2009

How To Backup Computer Files

If you have a computer that is your pride and joy, then knowing how to backup computer files might be a really good option should something bad happen to your computer.

To backup computer files you ideally need an external hard drive with a good amount of memory on it to store all your big documents etc. Think about what files are the largest in size and transfer accordingly. You may find that you don’t need to backup all your computer files, but then again, i am sure there are many of us that would be devastated if we lost any information from our computers.

Keep your external hard drive safe and clean. Letting dust get into it could prevent it from working. Once you have backed up your computer files, store your external hard drive in its box. It is also important that you click the green “plug” icon at the bottom right of your computer screen before disconnecting the external hard drive. Right click the icon and click “Safely Remove Hardware” then follow the appropriate instructions. This prevents sudden data loss and is important in protecting the computer, the hard drive and all the associated files.

Who Invented Dell Computers?

A lot of people ask “who invented Dell computers” and it is often cause for discussion. Here’s the information you need:

The man behind one of the greatest names in computers is called Michael Dell.  He was born in 1965 and was fascinated by computers. He founded the company at a very early age and Michael became the youngest CEO of a company ever to earn a ranking on the Fortune 500.

It is a true story of entrepreneur success and all credit to him. If you want to know more about Dell, click HERE.

Dell

Computer Hardware – The Laptop Mouse

Is it just me that finds the built in laptop mouse annoying? Yes, it looks sleek and stylish, but when it comes to computer hardware and the little “clicky” mouse, i do find certain laptops can be difficult to use when the mousepad / touchpad has a mind of its own.

The way one has to position their hand can often lead to random clicks, because the palm is resting on the mousepad / touchpad. So, as you’re laid there on your bed gracefully moving your forefinger around on the mousepad, you might not be surprised to notice it starts doing things you don’t want it to because your palm is resting on it! Unintentional, but very annoying. Hmm – maybe its just me, but if it wasn’t for looking like a total weirdo plugging an actual computer mouse into my laptop, then i would! Oh, and you can’t put the laptop on your lap on the couch and start clicking away with an actual mouse then either – you need to be on a hard surface.

Well, i know they say you should keep your laptop on a hard surface at all time anyway, because otherwise it can overheat. Overheating computer hardware is BAD idea folks! Sitting with it on your lap for too long is bad for the laptop and also kind of burns your legs (i can prove this!).

Okay, so, if like me you really would prefer an actual mouse to use with your laptop, then you can consider the wireless laptop mouse. 

Check out the Microsoft Wireless Notebook Optical Mouse 3000. They are really cute and come in a variety of colours. So, if you have a pink laptop, you can now have a totally funky and matching pink mouse!  Very cool. Oh, and they also have rather wicked names: The five colors include Aloe (green), Creme brulee (khaki), Dragon fruit (dark pink), Milk chocolate (brown) and finally Pomegranate (red).

Buy a funky laptop mouse!

You can buy the pink mouse here: http://www.bizrate.com/pointingdevices/microsoft-3000-wireless-optical-mouse-dragon-fruit-pink–pid875914467/

These are hot in the States, but if you live in the UK you might have a bit more difficulty picking one up. Argos are selling a black one, if you want to go all chic and classy and pick a mouse colour that wont make you feel like you should replace your laptop to match the colour of your mouse!

If you really want a funky wireless laptop mouse then keep your eyes peeled on the computer online stores, or check out Ebay  – there are bargains to be had!

Computer Hardware Reviews

Do You Have A Bulky Old Computer? Upgrade!

If you are considering upgrading your computer hardware, or simply need a bit of advice, here are my recommendations of some good sites to visit for some great computer hardware reviews.

Lets remember that those “in the know” will naturally have a better idea of what to look for when it comes to purchasing computers. As a non-technical mere mortal, it can often be quite difficult for us to know exactly what we want our computer system to have, which is why speaking to the experts is always a good idea. However, instead of heading down to the computer shop and hearing a load of computer jargon, i suggest reading up online before you commit, and then you can get a better idea of what you want.

For comprehensive computer hardware reviews, i really like http://www.pocket-lint.co.uk/hardware. They offer some great advice and should be able to direct you in the right direction. Their website is simple and easy to use.

If it is simply reviews you’re looking for, be sure to check out http://www.hardwareranking.com/, for their computer hardware guide. They also rate with percentages so you can easily compare and contrast against makes and models.

Finally, it is well worth checking out http://www.pcw.co.uk/ for some great advice and computer help. They are backed by more than 25 years of technical expertise and experience.

Hope these links help you with your computer hardware reviews!

Discount Computer Hardware

My friend turned to me and asked where she could get discount computer hardware.

I looked at her and smiled. As a woman who spends most of her life on the Internet, the answer wasn’t particularly difficult.

I told her that the best deals for any kind of discount computer hardware is usually on the Internet. Why? Well, many online stores don’t have the overheads, therefore they can give you great products at a cheaper price.

If you are a serious bargain hunter, then why not look at eBay for discount computer hardware. There are plenty of bargains to be had on there, and we all want to get the best deal.

What I’m curious to note, however, is if the high-street computer stores are going to have to bring their prices down to match the online stores. Lets face it – they’re all suffering with the credit crunch, but just who comes out on top will remain to be seen. Maybe these stores will reduce their prices enough to get people in store and buying more. However, there are those people that prefer to shop on the Internet anyway, despite paying extra for postage.

When it comes to discount computer hardware, there are plenty of websites offering great deals, just check out the following:

Valiant Computing Ltd

Outlet PC

Student Computers

Lovely Black Laptop

External Hardware

External hardware can be an important addition to your day to day computer activities.  Ensuring you back up your precious files and photos is crucial if you have a temperamental computer and you are worried that you may one day lose everything.

Think about all the different varieties of external hardware. You don’t need to spend a fortune on something that you has 60GB worth of space if you only have a few small files that you need backing up. Its at this point that you start to think “is it worth backing my files up” and the answer is yes; most definitely! Even if it is only one important document that goes missing, that is still one document that could have been retrieved had it been saved on a piece of external hardware.

Memory Stick

Go into the computer store and ask the sales assistant for advice if you are stuck. Give them a rough idea of how many gb worth of storage you think you may have, and then they will be able to advise you what the smallest external hardware option available to you is. Maybe you just need a little memory stick? They are great for their portability and being able to store the essentials on there. Great for students too, who need to take it to lectures and save important files. However, if like me you are a little bit accident-prone, don’t leave your memory stick lying around. It will get picked up by a stranger and not everyone is kind enough to hand it in to the Uni Library.

My Tip: Add it to your keyring with your car keys on. If you lose this, then you really are in trouble!

When To Upgrade Your Computer Hardware?

Two Friendly Computers

It might be difficult to know exactly when to upgrade computer hardware and there will be many discussions about when is the right time.

Firstly, think about it logically. If you go to a computer store like PC World or Currys and start browsing the computers, you will probably find a sales assistant strolls up to you and looks rather interested at his commission potential. Don’t be fooled into buying a new computer system just because the sales person has the ‘gift of the gab’. Sometimes they can blind you with technical jargon and you can be made to believe you need a new computer when you may just be considering buying one.

If you are unsure about what you’re looking for when upgrading your computer hardware, why not take a knowledgeable teen along with you when computer shopping. This will then make the sales person feel more intimidated that he can’t get away with spouting a load of technical stuff and automatically convincing you that a new computer is a must. Refer to the teen for any stuff you’re not sure about; they won’t be gaining commission from any resulting sale.

Lets think about why you might be considering upgrading computer hardware. It might be that your system is running very slow and you need a simple upgrade. Computers aren’t built to last forever, so naturally there will be a time to upgrade at some stage. My parents got their first computer 15 years ago and have had 4 desktop computers since. The reason they upgraded the last time was due to numerous problems with a little known computer brand, which was also using Windows 2000. It kept crashing, losing data etc. They now have a Toshiba with Windows XP and the speed is quite incredible (and no problems yet!). Upgrading computer hardware in this instance is a worthwhile investment.

AllBusiness.com suggests that upgrading your computer comes down to one thing: cost vs benefit. Do you really need the upgrade? Make the right decision.

Bear in mind that a computer upgrade will require you to transfer your data over. An external hard drive can be a great idea, because you can copy all the info on there and transfer it over easily. These can cost around £60 for a 160gb one.

Computer Hardware Maintenance – More Info

Stressed With Computer Hardware

 

If you want to know more about computer hardware maintenance, here is some more info on what you should do:

It is important to keep a check on spyware and adware etc, as these can slow down the smooth running of your computer. These additions to your computer can get added on without your knowledge when you download a program, for example. They are categorised under the term ‘Malware’. There are plenty of anti-virus programs you can install that prevent spyware et al. I use McAffee Site-Advisor Internet Security and think it’s great.

You should clean up old files on a regular basis to help with your computer hardware maintenance. The ‘Disk Cleanup’ utility option can be found by running Start – All Programs – Accessories -System Tools – Disk Cleanup.

It is also worthwhile running the Disk Defragmenter, as this will help the speed of your computer and will ensure that your files are located in the right place. The Disk Defragmenter can be found by running Start – All Programs – Accessories – System Tools – Disk Defragmenter.

Dell Disaster – Computer Hardware Checks

Girl on Laptop

 You may remember a while ago about Dell recalling some of their products after it was announced that some laptop computer batteries posed a fire risk. It was reported that in some cases the Sony-made batteries can short-circuit and overheat.

Although i don’t remember any laptops ‘blowing up’ in the UK, there were a few reported incidents in the US of flaming laptops, which i remember caused great concern, but i think everything has been sorted now and i’m sure Dell will be taking extra precautions with their hardware. I remember the initial reaction of my colleagues when the news was announced, and everyone was very much dissuading others from purchasing any Dell products in fear of it happening. I think faith in Dell has been restored now? Personally, however, i would not buy a Dell product, and the defects 2 years ago only fuelled my belief that i am not a big fan. So far, the best computer i have had is my current Toshiba Qosmio, but each to their own.

The recent Dell advert on UK screens is advertising a variety of funky coloured laptops for a very reasonable price. Great stuff – if you like to sit on the train with a putrid pink laptop! In all seriousness though, the new Dell laptops in various colours are great for kids and teenagers who want to stand out from the crowd. It’s all about being ‘different’ these days! Nevertheless, I’ll stick with my solid Toshiba Qosmio G20 in the wonderful colour of silver.

Taking Care Of Your Computer Hardware

As mentioned in a previous post, dust can be a big problem for your computer. Without realising it, your computer will gather dust at a rapid rate. I recommend opening your computer up occasionally and vacuuming out the dust. Clean the CD-Rom drive too, since this can be a dust collector when you are constantly opening and closing it.

Keep the PC cool and don’t leave it turned on for long periods of time; it will overheat and could then cause problems.

Another good idea is to invest in a surge protector so that if there is a thunder storm your computer hardware will be protected. This happened to me a while back, and the computer was linked to the fax machine in the office of our house. Both blew up during a storm and we wanted to make sure the same didn’t happen again! Definitely invest in a surge protector.

If you have any problems with your hardware you need to make sure you have good technical support on hand, so buy your hardware from a respectable manufacturer to ensure the parts are well made and to minimise any problems.

Computer Hardware – The Basics

Don't Get Stressed With Your Computer Hardware!

If computer hardware sounds like baffling technical jargon, then lets start with the basics about what it is:

“Computer hardware is the physical part of a computer, including its digital circuitry, as distinguished from the computer software that executes within the hardware. The hardware of a computer is infrequently changed, in comparison with software and hardware data, which are “soft” in the sense that they are readily created, modified or erased on the computer. Firmware is a special type of software that rarely, if ever, needs to be changed and so is stored on hardware devices such as read-only memory (ROM) where it is not readily changed (and is, therefore, “firm” rather than just “soft”).”

Source: Wikipedia:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_hardware

With this in mind, it would be safe to assume that computer hardware is a necessity to your computer and without it you would have a shell. The tangible elements of your computer are hardware. These could include:

• Speakers
• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Monitor
• System Unit

It is interesting to note, however, that the actual computer is just the base unit, or the system unit. The rest of the items are peripheral devices.

Computer Hardware has a lifespan though and you may feel it necessary to upgrade your hardware.

Computer Hardware Maintenance

Girl on Laptop

We’ve all got important documents on our computer that we would be devastated over if we lost, so i started to wonder just how often we do any kind of computer hardware maintenance.

Last month, my Toshiba Qosmio laptop suddenly decided to play up. It had been working fine the previous evening, but when i turned it on in the morning, the screen started showing a jumbled up mass of letters. After rushing it down to PC World, they told me that the motherboard had gone and it was ‘touch and go’ if they could fix it, due to the laptop being 3 years old and a discontinued model. The assistant techie initially asked me if i had backed up my important documents and i shook my head nonchalantly, but after a moment of sanity, it occurred to me that i really should have done some computer hardware maintenance to ensure all my important files would be safe.

Even just little things, like keeping your computer clean and free from dust are crucial in prolonging the lifespan of your computer. Also, one thing i am terribly guilty of doing is allowing the computer to overheat. For a start, i know i shouldn’t sit with it on my lap, as it should be on a hard surface at all times (PC World told me this!), but everyone does it and although i can feel the heat from the bottom of the laptop pleasantly burning my legs, i continue to sit with it on my lap 99% of the time. I found a good article here on computer hardware maintenance.