The Advantages of Custom Building Your Own Computer

Many people, including myself, choose to custom build our own computers from scratch, part by part. Although it is very fun to build your own computer, this isn't the only reason that we choose to build it ourselves. There are many advantages to building your own computer.

1. Low Cost

Isn't money the number one motivation to do anything? When I say building it yourself is low cost, I really mean it. You aren't going to save just a little bit either. I am talking about savings of up to $800 when you build it yourself. That's right! The brand name pre-built computers are way overpriced. They are making a killing off of you. The only thing that is worse than the brand name pre-built computers are those online custom computer configuration shops. I am talking about those guys that let you choose your own parts, assemble it for you, and then ship it to you. Those guys rip you off big time!

2. Building a Computer is a Great Skill

How many households have a computer today? A recent survey estimates that as much as 80% of American households have at least one computer. Some households have more than one. Hell, I have three computers and one notebook in my house! Now think about it. Building a computer is a skill that can be used in over 80% of American households.

3. You Will Learn so Much

When you first build a computer, you gain a lot of knowledge. You will learn about all kinds of things that you never would have stopped to think about. Maybe you will learn that you are more into technology than you first thought. All of the best jobs are in IT. Who knows? Maybe after you build your first computer you'll be ready to change careers!

4. You Know Exactly What is Under the Hood

Besides low costs, this is the second biggest reason why I choose to custom build all of my computers. Big computer retailers throw in all kinds of low-quality parts into your system. Many of the parts don't even have a brand name. When somebody asks you what kind of video card is in your computer you won't even know because the computer vendor doesn't have to tell you! They do it on a daily basis. Go to any website that sells computers and try to find out what brand of parts are used inside of the computer. I guarantee you won't find the names of the parts anywhere! Even those online custom computer configuration guys do it. They put generic, no-name parts into your computer, then charged you an extra $800 for nothing! That money goes straight into their pockets. If you decided to custom build your own computer you could have put that money into a faster processor, a better graphics card, more memory. You could have used that $800 to build an entire gaming rig! Build your own computer with all custom ordered parts and you will know exactly what brand and model of parts are being used in your computer. Besides that, you know the parts are high quality.

5. Most Parts Come With a 1-Year Warranty

That's right! You know how most brand name computer warranties are void even if you just open up the case or touch any of the parts? Well not with a custom built computer. Each part that you order will come with it's own warranty. That means you get a separate warranty for the case, the processor, the memory, the hard drive, etc. If one part goes bad you can just send it back for a new one. It's really hard to void these warranties also. As long as you don't pour a bottle of Coca-Cola all over your computer, the warranty should be fine.

As you can see, the advantages of custom building your own computer seriously outweigh those of buying a pre-built computer. Building your own computer really isn't as hard as you'd think either. You probably know somebody who could help you build your first one. And even if you don't, a lot of instructions come with the parts that you buy. The first time I built a computer alone, it took me a little over an hour to do it. Now I can build one in maybe 30 minutes to an hour. The time it takes is nothing when you think of the fact that you are saving hundreds of dollars by doing it yourself!

If you are thinking about custom building your own computer, you should visit LawlTech.com [http://www.lawltech.com] for advice on building your own computer. We have many example computer configurations along with how much each computer would cost you to build. We also update daily with deals from some of the best computer parts vendors on the internet.

Do You Feel Used by Computers?

Do You Feel Used by Computers?

A look at second-user computer equipment.

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

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

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

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

1. Used Computers

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

There are a number of reasons why computers are returned:

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

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

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

- the customer changes their mind just after purchasing

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

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

2. Unused Computers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The author is an experienced computer user, having worked in IT management for a number of years. Now heavily involved in the purchase, use and distribution of thousands of computers at http://www.1st-4-used-computers.com

Getting Acquainted with Notebook Computers

Not so long ago notebook computers were expensive, heavy and reserved for a small portion of computer users, no longer. Today’s notebooks are lighter, less expensive and can be as fully featured as their stuck on your desk counterparts. A little knowledge can be helpful if you are considering making the leap to the convenience of a portable computer.

What are your computer needs? Notebook computers, sometimes referred to as laptop computers, just like desktop computers can be configured for a variety of purposes. Will you be using your notebook primarily for business? If so, are you heavily into word processing or spreadsheets or is your work directed toward graphics? Do you need to be connected to the internet for research and/or communication? Maybe you want a notebook mainly to enjoy games or movies? Make an inventory of your computer use priorities, such a list will help you determine which notebook computer is right for you.

Once you have ascertained what you want out of a notebook computer it’s time to make a list of the options your machine will need.

* Processors and RAM – A 20 gigabyte hard drive and an Intel Pentium Mobile processor with 2.8 gigahertz of speed will handle the needs of most computer users quite well. Gamers will need at least 526 megabytes of RAM. If you will be opening large files or having several files open at once you might want to consider a full gig of RAM.

* Screen size – A 13 inch screen with a resolution of 1024 x 768 should do the trick for most notebook computer users. Notebook users who are mainly interested in gaming or movie watching or professionals using graphics programs will probably want as large a screen as possible and may want to add a graphics card.

* Weight – If you are on the go, constantly in and out of your vehicle or on and off a plane and always carrying your computer an ultra light notebook computer may be best for you. Ultra lights can be pricey and you may have to give up a few features or settle for a smaller screen. Standard laptops weighing in at four to five pounds are more moderately priced and can have larger screens and more options.

* Ports, drives and bays – Portability and storage will all be enhanced by choosing a notebook computer with at least two ports. USB and Ethernet are pretty much essential. Expansion bays for CD-ROMS, DVDs and an extra battery should also be considered.

* Keyboard – The keyboard on a notebook computer can be confusing, even downright annoying, for someone used to any of the standard desktop computer configurations. Most laptop keyboards will be smaller and have the mouse integrated into the center. Learning to operate a mouse with your index finger can be exasperating. Look into buying an external mouse as well.

* Battery – Finding out your battery is dead when you’re in your seat on the airplane renders the most expensive notebook computer worthless. Investing in a good Lithium Ion battery is worth the extra cost. Don’t forget the more hardware and software you have up and running the shorter your battery’s life will be.

Finally, while online notebook computer shopping certainly takes some of the hassle out of buying, nothing beats a hands-on demonstration. Comparison shop a few models via the internet then test drive them at your local computer dealer. Rest the notebook computer on your lap after it has been running for at least twenty minutes. Is it comfortable or does it run hot? Type in the old standby “quick brown fox” sentence to see how the keyboard feels to your fingers. Look at the screen from a variety of angles. Open the software programs you use the most. Do they openly quickly and smoothly?

Notebook computers [http://www.maryvillepress.com/category/computing-tips] can be handy tools which offer solutions for both work and play. However, be sure to take the time to explore your needs and the solutions that a notebook computer can supply before making the purchase plunge.

Christopher M. Luck has an extensive background in working exclusively with notebook computers and is now offering his free notebook computer secrets [http://www.computernotebooktips.info] to the public. If you are at all interested in Christopher's computer advice, tips, or secrets, you can visit his computer blog [http://www.maryvillepress.com/category/computing-tips]

Single Board Computers

When we talk of computers, topics usually range from desktops, laptops and notebooks. Sometimes, our ideas and discussions about computers seem to go on forever. However, we seldom hear talk about single board computers. We may not be familiar with the term, though many of us have used single board computer at one time or another.

A single board computer is a complete computer that stands on a single circuit board. It is a circuit board that contains all the components to make a complete computer, such as the processor, memory (RAM), I/O, processor clock and audio and video interfaces. Single board computers may be used as stand-alone units, embedded units or backplane units.

Today, single board computers have found wide use in industrial processes. These small-form factor computers are often used in industrial machines in a rack-mount format that performs complex processes.

Single board computers can also be found in other applications. Cell phones, fax machines, scanners and other electronic products that make use of computer technology are equipped with embedded single board computers. Notebook computers, especially the older ones, are basically single board computers.

Many new home electronic products, especially those that are designed to communicate with a computer or other electronic products, make use of embedded single board computers. Despite this emerging trend in home electronics, single board computers fail to fully dominate the computer world because of some disadvantages.

However, single board computers do have advantages over other types of computers. With all the components built on a single board, the manufacturing cost of single board computers is less compared to multiboard computers. The single board design makes it more reliable because the need for problematic connectors is eliminated. With new technologies, the capabilities of single board computers can further be improved, while its size is further reduced.

On the downside, single board computers are less flexible than other types of computers. With all the components soldered in a single board, there is no way the computer can be upgraded whenever new developments appear on the market. Simply said, the technological capabilities of single board computers are fixed, and they have no ability to take advantage of new technological developments.

Single Board Computers provides detailed information on Single Board Computers, Embedded Single Board Computers, Industrial Single Board Computers, High Performance Single Board Computers and more. Single Board Computers is affiliated with Office Workstations.

Three Things You Can Do to Keep Your Computer Running at Maximum Performance

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

Problem #1: Computer Hard Disk Files

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

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

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

Problem #2: Spyware

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

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

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

Three Steps to Improved Computer Performance

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

Step #1: Delete Spyware

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

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

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

Step #2: Clean up your Hard Disk

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

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

Step #3: Defrag your Hard Disk

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

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

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

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

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

Larry Andrew is an educational consultant, author and publisher of http://www.ez-software-review.com. Learn how to purchase cheap, reliable and quality software for your home, school and business.

History of the Computer - Computers and Technology

The volume and use of computers in the world are so great, they have become difficult to ignore anymore. Computers appear to us in so many ways that many times, we fail to see them as they actually are. People associated with a computer when they purchased their morning coffee at the vending machine. As they drove themselves to work, the traffic lights that so often hampered us are controlled by computers in an attempt to speed the journey. Accept it or not, the computer has invaded our life.

The origins and roots of computers started out as many other inventions and technologies have in the past. They evolved from a relatively simple idea or plan designed to help perform functions easier and quicker. The first basic type of computers were designed to do just that; compute!. They performed basic math functions such as multiplication and division and displayed the results in a variety of methods. Some computers displayed results in a binary representation of electronic lamps. Binary denotes using only ones and zeros thus, lit lamps represented ones and unlit lamps represented zeros. The irony of this is that people needed to perform another mathematical function to translate binary to decimal to make it readable to the user.

One of the first computers was called ENIAC. It was a huge, monstrous size nearly that of a standard railroad car. It contained electronic tubes, heavy gauge wiring, angle-iron, and knife switches just to name a few of the components. It has become difficult to believe that computers have evolved into suitcase sized micro-computers of the 1990's.

Computers eventually evolved into less archaic looking devices near the end of the 1960's. Their size had been reduced to that of a small automobile and they were processing segments of information at faster rates than older models. Most computers at this time were termed "mainframes" due to the fact that many computers were linked together to perform a given function. The primary user of these types of computers were military agencies and large corporations such as Bell, AT&T, General Electric, and Boeing. Organizations such as these had the funds to afford such technologies. However, operation of these computers required extensive intelligence and manpower resources. The average person could not have fathomed trying to operate and use these million dollar processors.

The United States was attributed the title of pioneering the computer. It was not until the early 1970's that nations such as Japan and the United Kingdom started utilizing technology of their own for the development of the computer. This resulted in newer components and smaller sized computers. The use and operation of computers had developed into a form that people of average intelligence could handle and manipulate without to much ado. When the economies of other nations started to compete with the United States, the computer industry expanded at a great rate. Prices dropped dramatically and computers became more affordable to the average household.

Like the invention of the wheel, the computer is here to stay.The operation and use of computers in our present era of the 1990's has become so easy and simple that perhaps we may have taken too much for granted. Almost everything of use in society requires some form of training or education. Many people say that the predecessor to the computer was the typewriter. The typewriter definitely required training and experience in order to operate it at a usable and efficient level. Children are being taught basic computer skills in the classroom in order to prepare them for the future evolution of the computer age.

The history of computers started out about 2000 years ago, at the birth of the abacus, a wooden rack holding two horizontal wires with beads strung on them. When these beads are moved around, according to programming rules memorized by the user, all regular arithmetic problems can be done. Another important invention around the same time was the Astrolabe, used for navigation.

Blaise Pascal is usually credited for building the first digital computer in 1642. It added numbers entered with dials and was made to help his father, a tax collector. In 1671, Gottfried Wilhelm von Leibniz invented a computer that was built in 1694. It could add, and, after changing some things around, multiply. Leibnitz invented a special stopped gear mechanism for introducing the addend digits, and this is still being used.

The prototypes made by Pascal and Leibnitz were not used in many places, and considered weird until a little more than a century later, when Thomas of Colmar (A.K.A. Charles Xavier Thomas) created the first successful mechanical calculator that could add, subtract, multiply, and divide. A lot of improved desktop calculators by many inventors followed, so that by about 1890, the range of improvements included: Accumulation of partial results, storage and automatic reentry of past results (A memory function), and printing of the results. Each of these required manual installation. These improvements were mainly made for commercial users, and not for the needs of science.

While Thomas of Colmar was developing the desktop calculator, a series of very interesting developments in computers was started in Cambridge, England, by Charles Babbage (of which the computer store "Babbages" is named), a mathematics professor. In 1812, Babbage realized that many long calculations, especially those needed to make mathematical tables, were really a series of predictable actions that were constantly repeated. From this he suspected that it should be possible to do these automatically. He began to design an automatic mechanical calculating machine, which he called a difference engine. By 1822, he had a working model to demonstrate. Financial help from the British Government was attained and Babbage started fabrication of a difference engine in 1823. It was intended to be steam powered and fully automatic, including the printing of the resulting tables, and commanded by a fixed instruction program.

The difference engine, although having limited adaptability and applicability, was really a great advance. Babbage continued to work on it for the next 10 years, but in 1833 he lost interest because he thought he had a better idea; the construction of what would now be called a general purpose, fully program-controlled, automatic mechanical digital computer. Babbage called this idea an Analytical Engine. The ideas of this design showed a lot of foresight, although this couldn't be appreciated until a full century later.

The plans for this engine required an identical decimal computer operating on numbers of 50 decimal digits (or words) and having a storage capacity (memory) of 1,000 such digits. The built-in operations were supposed to include everything that a modern general - purpose computer would need, even the all important Conditional Control Transfer Capability that would allow commands to be executed in any order, not just the order in which they were programmed.

As people can see, it took quite a large amount of intelligence and fortitude to come to the 1990's style and use of computers. People have assumed that computers are a natural development in society and take them for granted. Just as people have learned to drive an automobile, it also takes skill and learning to utilize a computer.

Computers in society have become difficult to understand. Exactly what they consisted of and what actions they performed were highly dependent upon the type of computer. To say a person had a typical computer doesn't necessarily narrow down just what the capabilities of that computer was. Computer styles and types covered so many different functions and actions, that it was difficult to name them all. The original computers of the 1940's were easy to define their purpose when they were first invented. They primarily performed mathematical functions many times faster than any person could have calculated. However, the evolution of the computer had created many styles and types that were greatly dependent on a well defined purpose.

The computers of the 1990's roughly fell into three groups consisting of mainframes, networking units, and personal computers. Mainframe computers were extremely large sized modules and had the capabilities of processing and storing massive amounts of data in the form of numbers and words. Mainframes were the first types of computers developed in the 1940's. Users of these types of computers ranged from banking firms, large corporations and government agencies. They usually were very expensive in cost but designed to last at least five to ten years. They also required well educated and experienced manpower to be operated and maintained. Larry Wulforst, in his book Breakthrough to the Computer Age, describes the old mainframes of the 1940's compared to those of the 1990's by speculating, "...the contrast to the sound of the sputtering motor powering the first flights of the Wright Brothers at Kitty Hawk and the roar of the mighty engines on a Cape Canaveral launching pad". End of part one.

Works Cited

Wulforst, Harry. Breakthrough to the Computer Age. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1982.

Palferman, Jon and Doron Swade. The Dream Machine. London: BBC Books, 1991.

Campbell-Kelly, Martin and William Aspray. Computer, A History of the Information Machine. New York: BasicBooks, 1996.

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Computer Forensics

Computer forensics is the process of investigating computer systems by collecting and analyzing computer-related evidence and data to determine their illegal or unauthorized involvement in crimes or frauds. This relatively new field is used by law enforcement, military, intelligence agencies, and businesses. Computer evidence processing protocols are scrupulously observed in the process, as the findings should be presented in a court of law.

Not merely confined to computer data recovery alone, computer forensics is a fast-growing investigative technique used by a forensic specialist for retrieving data that has been electronically stored or encrypted on digital media such as a personal or work computer. Law enforcement agencies use computer forensics to gather evidence about a suspect or known criminal. Computer forensics experts can detect rogue employees or contractors who are leaking critical information such as company plans or sensitive customer data.

Many computer forensics professionals learn the techniques on the job in law enforcement or computer security positions. But with the field expanding widely, employers are currently looking for candidates with certificate programs and formal education in computer forensics, which are available from many institutions. The formal education programs offer instructions on pertinent legal issues, computer skills, and forensic tools that they will need while working as computer forensics professionals.

They should have extensive knowledge of computer systems and programs and the ability to retrieve information from them. Often, they are required to retrieve data that has been deleted from the device. For this, the specialist makes use of particular computer forensics software and other tools.

As the specialist works with evidence involved in a criminal or civil case, he/she takes particular care to properly document all the work done to the computer and information found from it. No licensure requirements exist for practicing as a computer forensics specialist. However, voluntary credentials should be provided. These are called Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and the Certified Computer Examiner (CCE). Computer forensics consulting is also a fast-growing field.

Computer forensics has become an integral part of law enforcement agencies, defense forces, corporations, and large institutions as they all deal with computer offences.

Computer Forensics provides detailed information on Computer Forensics, Computer Forensics Software, Computer Forensics Consulting, Computer Forensics Jobs and more. Computer Forensics is affiliated with Industrial Robots.

How to Fix Your Computer From Freezing?

It's very common to have your computer freezing up one you at least once in a while when you have too many applications running at the same time. But having a constant freeze of your computer wastes your time and you will find it difficult to get any work done. So the question is how to fix your computer from freezing?

Fix your computer from freezing is not simple but the more effective way is to prevent it from happening. That is exactly what you are going to read here. Each and every computer has something called as a computer registry which stores your data in files and folders for your use. At start up your computer will sort through the different folders and start any of the folders which have instructions to run at startup. But what if there are quite a few downloads you have got from the Internet and all are designed to run at startup?

The computer gets confused and cannot decide what to do and typically shuts down while trying to decide what to do! As a result you get the typical static scene where nothing seems to work and everything is frozen! Typical frozen computer! But you should be able to detect your computer getting stuck on you and here are a few computer signs and symptoms you will see of a slow computer.

One very common reason for your computer freezing up is because it is using nearly every availed amount of random access memory or RAM memory at that specific point of time. As a result the computer is running on almost nothing and you will have to wait till your computer has about released some extra RAM for your computer to start working again.

How to fix your computer from freezing? Well, try to avoid having many programs running at the same time. Sometimes we are tempted to get better and more software of the internet to install on your computers. But please be aware that these software programs may not be designed specifically for your computer programming system and when your computer tries to run these programs an error is caused which takes some time to process, resulting in a screen freeze.

Running multiple programs at the same time is really not a good idea at all. Select what programs you want and then delete the remaining of the free downloads which you've not used more than at least five times with a program that is given from Microsoft. But that is temporary because the root of the problem, the invalid files in your registry are not yet fixed. This is why you need a good registry cleaner program that can sort through the different programs in your computer to remove the bits and pieced of old and faulty programs which are cluttering up your system.

A big fault in your computer Windows registry or a system fault may also cause your computer to freeze and you will not be able to work well.

Now you have the answer to how to fix your computer from freezing. Well, another cause of having frequent computer freezes can also be due to viruses and make sure you run your disk protection software regularly to have your computer protected for functioning.

As said before fixing your computer from freezing is easy but to prevent it you have to maintain your computer, by using registry cleaners you can easily clean up your RAM to remove all old and unused pieces of soft ware to prepare free RAM for the computer's daily processing in a regular basis automatically. Please do get good registry cleaners to clean out your computers at least once a week.

This you now should have a fair idea on how to fix your computer from freezing. If you have no problem of freezing but have many error messages or Blue screen error or any problems related to your windows, you should take a free scan at Fix Freezing Computer.

Colleen is a career woman who works with her computer every day, computer errors and problems always come and seem unavoidable until she found and install the registry cleaner software that helps her maintain her computer, she wants you to have that as well to increase save your time and get your job done faster, visit Registry Cleaner Software to scan your computer for free.

Case Study - Monitoring Computer Use in a High School for Pornography, Bullying and Racism

During the school year 2003 to 2004, a case study was conducted in a high school to determine (a) what problem existed on the use of school computers and (b) solutions to the problem.

The study had three objectives:

Provide a safer and more effective environment for internet users in the school environment;



Fulfil the school's request to provide software that provided monitoring and auditing capability, enabling more flexible internet access;



Fulfil the school's concern regarding chat room activity on school computers;



Remove undesired communications from the schools computers such as pornography, racism and bullying.

Test Setup

The school suspected that extensive computer misuse was taking place by a large number of their students, approximately 1600 students sharing 480 computers, but could neither prove, nor quantify, their suspicions. Detection and analytical software was installed to determine the range and extent of this misuse. The analytical element of software was configured and installed in order to:

a) Log the computer activity of each student on a per user basis.

b) Monitor and record existing traffic across the system architecture that did not comply with the school's Acceptable Use Policy.

Analysis Results

Within minutes of the first day of implementing the test, a violation icon was flashing. The test was conducted in stealth mode to prevent the users of the computers knowing that their activity was monitored. By the end of that day, more than 2000 violations had been detected. The volume of violations kept growing; to the staggering number of over 20,000 in two weeks. Consider that these violations occurred on only 480 computers within a school of 1600 students. The violations averaged GREATER than one violation per student per day. The school administrators were not prepared for this level of misuse of the school computers.

Additionally, the range and seriousness of the violations was unexpected.

· Offensive language was being used in chat rooms, e-mail, message boards, instant messaging and mobile phone text messaging.

· Students were attempting, and all too often succeeding, to access pornographic websites. This was particularly worrying, as the school accessed the Internet via filtering and blocking systems installed by the School District.

· There were descriptions of violence and examples of bullying and racism.

· Students abused the computer network in all applications, not just in accessing the Internet and email. Violations were detected in word processing files and spreadsheets.

· A culture of inappropriate use of the computer equipment was prevalent. Typing inappropriate words about teachers was commonplace.

· A significant number of violations originated outside the school, for example, via hotmail.

The school administration established an Acceptable Use Policy to govern the use of the school computers. At the end of the two week trial period they decided to publish and make known to all students and staff that the school's Acceptable Use Policy was being enforced.

At log-on, and in order to continue, every user had to confirm agreement to work within the school's Acceptable Use Policy. To allow the education of the students to continue, it was decided to show and discuss with offenders proof of their violations, rather than to take immediate disciplinary action. The software was directed to operate in active mode which prompted the software to immediately notify the user of violations and disrupt the chat room, instant messaging, email or other application that the violation occurred in. Initially students challenged the Policy and continued with their activity. However, when computers were immediately shut down when a violation occurred and students were confronted on the spot by school administrators, compliance occurred rapidly. The direct consequence of this approach was a noticeable drop in violations.

Conclusions

This test and analysis was able to identify the range and extent of the problem. Alone, it provided a broad brush method of supporting the school Acceptable Use Policy and went some way towards eliminating the misuse of computers in the school. The analytical software identified the problem and provided part of the solution. The response and enforcement element of the software provided the rest

Implementing the solution

Effective monitoring software provides the flexibility to configure different modes of operation, such as the ability to give warnings to the user, or to close the down the application in use. It allows varying modes of operation to be applied to different individuals and groups. It allows individual settings to be made for Internet access. It allows the building of individual user profiles.

In this instance, the school asked every student and their parent/guardian to sign a new Acceptable Use Policy, which included the use software to monitor for violations. Users were warned on screen when a violation had taken place and informed that a screen capture of the violation had been stored on the server. If a user continued to misuse the computer system, services for that user were suspended. This decision was not taken by the software, but by a senior member of staff. In order to regain access, the user had to approach this person to explain why they had misused the computer. Imagine the surprise and embarrassment to a student to be confronted with a screen shot of their activity on the computer and have to explain it.

Results of the Implementation

After the school instituted an Acceptable Use Policy and configured effective monitoring software to active mode, the school experienced a significant change in the usage behaviour:

On average, there are now less than 10 violations per week;



A significant improvement of network performance was gained by the removal of inappropriate material - at least 60%;



Teachers spend more time teaching and less time policing children's computer activity;



Current analysis of Internet sites visited by students shows a massive swing towards educational and technical sites. More then 80% of web sites visited are education or technical sites verses only 40% prior to the installation of the monitoring software; and



Students are using computers well and examination results have improved significantly across the curriculum. The school has seen a 10 point increase in grades since the installation of monitoring software.

Imagine this, the students started using the computers for their school work rather than unacceptable activity and as a result their grades went up.

Conclusions

The flexibility of operation and the information provided by effective monitoring software enables the school staff to use their professional judgment in dealing with violations of the Acceptable Use Policy. Screen warnings remind students about the need to use the computer in an acceptable manner. Internal monitoring at the school has concluded that students' better use of computers has made a significant contribution to improving academic standards and that project had exceeded the school's objectives in full.

Points to Consider with Monitoring Software

· It allows full and safe access for all to the school's computer network;

· It enables enforcement of the school's Acceptable Use Policy;

· It keeps decision making in the hands of the school's teaching professionals;

· It lets teachers teach rather than police computer misuse;

· It prevents inappropriate Internet, e-mail or internally communicated material reaching students and staff;

· It provides protection to students and staff from the potential consequential liabilities derived from accessing the Internet;

· It has reduces the instances of inappropriate misuse of computers;

· It helps teachers prepare students for the working world by encouraging proper and more effective use of computers; and

· It helps raise academic standards by encouraging proper use of school computers for academic studies.

Summary

As staff and pupils grow more confident in their use of new technologies across the curriculum, the potential dangers and benefits grow in similar proportion. All computer users in school must be protected from the ever-widening range of threats. Students must be encouraged to make the most effective use of school computers for learning. Effective monitoring softwareprovides a unique, flexible and simple to use management tool that combines comprehensive protection and with a better learning environment. What was uniquely disturbing in this case study was learning that the school district had installed district level filtering software that proved to be totally ineffective. The administrators had tried to resolve the problem but were employing the wrong technologies.

Schools must look to effective monitoring solutions to resolve the use problems they experience in the usage of school computers. I released another article entitled " Site Blocking vs. Content Monitoring" which I highly recommend that you reveiw regarding the issue of choosing correct software solutions. There are many effective montioring solutions currently available. In this particular study, Policy Central Professional, was used and proved to be highly effective in combatting the misuse of school computers. More information can be found at [http://www.securitysoft.com]

Guide to Choosing a Computer System for Your Child

Before going further into choosing computers for children, I believe that you would like to know the answer to the following question:

Why do children need computers?

The easiest answer for this one is: "A child needs a computer so that he can play computer games". Everybody agrees. Nevertheless, let's not just limit on the short term use of the computer... Let's analyze a little the world we live in and see what can acomputer do for children.

Computers are starting to have more and more importance in our daily life. Almost everywhere you go, you find computers. At office or at home, a computer is almost indispensable.

Not knowing to use a computer, you find many difficulties. Moreover, things will not get easier in the future, because the world is getting more and more computerized. That is why your child should get accustomed and work with computers from an early age. If your child does this, it will be much easier for him to adapt to the ever-changing technology.

Educational products are nowadays released mostly on computer CD's.

More and more educational products for children are now released in the form of programs and electronic encyclopedias and can only be viewed with a computer, somehow forcing you to buy a computer for your child. Unlike the traditional learning methods, learning with a computer has the advantage of interactivity. Children love to learn with computers, because they can control the way they learn and what they learn.

Of course, a child will use a computer mainly to play computer games. At first, the computer will be for your child like a more expensive toy. The computer will be his favorite toy. Your child will play computer games the entire day. However, after a while, the child will settle down and start exploring the other sides of the computer.

At first, the only thing I was doing at my computer was playing. Then, as time passed, I started being interested in how computers work, the internet, 3D modeling and so on. Now I can say that I know a lot about computers.

The disadvantage of computers as toys is that it is a lot more expensive than other toys for children, but on the long term, the money you spend will come back multiplied many times in the form of knowledge for your child. That is why I do believe that a computer is a very good investment on the long run for you and your child.

Which computers for children to buy?

Since the main use of the computer for your child will be to play games, you should choose a fast system on which modern games will run smooth. Also, because modern computer games use lot's of space, a high capacity hard drive is recommended. The computer you choose for your child should be equipped with a DVD, because DVD's are starting to replace CD's as main data transport medium.

Now that you have chosen a computer system for your child, all you need is a monitor. You can choose from two types of computer monitors: CRT and LCD. LCD monitors are the ones you usually find in a office. They are flat and do not produce radiations. However, they are not recommended for the purpose your child will use it, because of the slow reaction time. CRT computer monitors are bigger and cheaper. They are more indicated for children who like to play computer games a lot.

Read the whole article located at http://www.child-toys-guide.com/computers-for-children.shtml

Eugen Lisov is the creator of http://www.Child-Toys-Guide.com , a site that helps parents worldwide to choose the best toys for their children. Please feel free to browse my site; it will only help you when choosing toys for your child.

The History of Computers

The early computers

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

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

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

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

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

The First computers?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Transistor era, the end of the inventor.

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

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

Some of the better known ones are:

TRADIC at Bell Laboratories in 1954,

TX-0 at MIT's Lincoln Laboratory

IBM 704 and its successors, the 709 and 7094. The latter introduced I/O processors for better throughput between I/O devices and main memory

First supper computers, The Livermore Atomic Research Computer (LARC) and the IBM 7030 (aka Stretch)

The Texas Instrument Advanced Scientific Computer (TI-ASC)

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

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

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

The network years.

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

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

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

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

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A Short History of the Modern Computer

First programmable computer

The Z1 originally created by Germany's Konrad Zuse in his parents living room in 1936 to 1938 is considered to be the first electrical binary programmable computer

The first digital computer

Short for Atanasoff-Berry Computer, the ABC started being developed by Professor John Vincent Atanasoff and graduate student Cliff Berry in 1937 and continued to be developed until 1942 at the Iowa State College (now Iowa State University). On October 19, 1973, US Federal Judge Earl R. Larson signed his decision that the ENIAC patent by Eckert and Mauchly was invalid and named Atanasoff the inventor of the electronic digital computer.

The ENIAC was invented by J. Presper Eckert and John Mauchly at the University of Pennsylvania and began construction in 1943 and was not completed until 1946. It occupied about 1,800 square feet and used about 18,000 vacuum tubes, weighing almost 50 tons. Although the Judge ruled that the ABC computer was the first digital computer many still consider the ENIAC to be the first digital computer.

Because of the Judge ruling and because the case was never appealed like most we consider the ABC to be the first digital computer. However, because the ABC was never fully functional we consider the first functional digital computer to be the ENIAC.

The first stored program computer

The early British computer known as the EDSAC is considered to be the first stored program electronic computer. The computer performed its first calculation on May 6, 1949 and was the computer that ran the first graphical computer game

The first personal computer

In 1975 Ed Roberts coined the term personal computer when he introduced the Altair 8800. Although the first personal computer is considered to be the Kenback-1, which was first introduced for $750 in 1971. The computer relied on a series of switches for inputting data and output data by turning on and off a series of lights.

The Micral is considered the be the first commercial non-assembly computer. The computer used the Intel 8008 processor and sold for $1,750 in 1973.

The first workstation

Although never sold the first workstation is considered to be the Xerox Alto, introduced in 1974. The computer was revolutionary for its time and included a fully functional computer, display, and mouse. The computer operated like many computers today utilizing windows, menus and icons as an interface to its operating system.

The first PC (IBM compatible) computer

In 1953 IBM shipped its first electric computer, the 701. Later IBM introduced its first personal computer called the "IBM PC" in 1981. The computer was code named and still sometimes referred to as the "Acorn" and had a 8088 processor, 16 KB of memory, which was expandable to 256 and utilizing MS-DOS.

The first PC clone

The first PC clone was developed by Compaq, the "Compaq Portable" was release in March 1983 and was 100% compatible with IBM computers and software that ran on IBM computers.

For more interesting information on computers and the problems you might have and the solutions to these problems, check it out at rcbenterpriz.com/computer [http://www.rcbenterpriz.com/computer]

Learn How to Stop Computer Freezing Problems For Free

There are times when computers can behave badly. You can experience computer crashing; computer freezing and computer system can run slow. These problems are normal for any computer system today whether you like it or not. Some problems can be recognizable while others are just difficult to figure out. However, you have to try to identify want causes the problem such as computer freezing and crashing to be able to solve it properly.

Every time your computer does not succeed in responding, there is a huge probability that your computer is experiencing a problem. Computer freezing can also happen when the computer is active doing different tasks. There are times when the computer suddenly stops while saving a certain file during printing. You can try checking out the power cable if the computer screen is blank. However, there are latest computer models that have a feature wherein the screen blanks out automatically in order to save energy. Just press on keys to make the computer screen return to normal.

You can experience computer freezing due to cable disconnections. It is important to check first before making any actions. Then, you can try pressing the 'Esc' key if your connections are fine but still having an unresponsive computer. If computer freezing still exists, try pressing 'Ctrl', 'Alt' and 'Del' keys altogether. The combination of these keys lets the computer to warm boot or to restart in those DOS days. This combination has a different usage in the Windows operating system. The Close Programs box with the list of the current running programs will be presented when the 'Ctrl', 'Alt' and 'Del' keys are pressed. The 'not responding' script will then appear if Windows find any unnecessary programs. Highlight the said program name and then press the 'End Task'. Better to save whatever data you are working on for it might be affected with the process. Using the 'Ctrl '+ 'Alt' + 'Del' task is another choice to be able to restart your computer as the last resort.

'Ctrl' + 'Alt' + 'Del' combination is used differently in Windows XP. 'Windows Task Manager' screen will appear when these buttons are pressed. To see the recent running programs, just click the application Tab.

There are certain times wherein Windows Task Manager Box or Close Program Box suddenly stops unexpectedly. All you need to do when this happens is a computer restart. You can press the restart button if your computer has one and if not, just turn off your computer. Then turn it on again after a few minutes. You need to wait for a several minutes before turning the computer on to allow the components to stop completely before the system restarts. Before attempting to turn off your computer, make sure you have saved any data. Although there is an AutoSave feature in most programs, it is still difficult to depend on it.

It is important to be aware of spyware and viruses that may cause compute freezing. Scanning your computer is a good idea to know the real cause of the problem.

Tired of your slow computer? Do you wish there was a way you could by fixing computer freezing problems? You can by instantly fixing your corrupt registry. Go to www.ComputerProblemFix.com to receive your free download and learn exactly why your computer is running slow.

Computer Security

Computer Security is a branch of technology known as information security as applied to computers. Information security means protecting information and information systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. The objective of computer security varies and can include protection of information from theft or corruption, or the preservation of availability, as defined in the security policy.

Technological and managerial procedures applied to computer systems to ensure the availability, integrity and confidentiality of information managed by the computer system

Computer security imposes requirements on computers that are different from most system requirements because they often take the form of constraints on what computers are not supposed to do.

Typical approaches to improving computer security can include the following:

o Physically limit access to computers to only those who will not compromise security.

o Hardware mechanisms that impose rules on computer programs, thus avoiding depending on computer programs for computer security.

o Operating system mechanisms that impose rules on programs to avoid trusting computer programs.

o Programming strategies to make computer programs dependable and resist subversion.

Computer Security has three Layers:

o Hacking

o Cracking

o Phreaking

Hacking:

Unauthorized use or attempts to circumvent or bypass the security mechanisms of an information system or network.

Computer hacking always involves some degree of infringement on the privacy of others or damage to computer-based property such as files, web pages or software. The impact of computer hacking varies from simply being simply invasive and annoying to illegal.

Cracking:

The act of breaking into a computer system.

Software Cracking is the modification of software to remove protection methods: copy prevention, trial/demo version, serial number, hardware key, CD check or software annoyances like nag screens and adware.

The most common software crack is the modification of an application's binary to cause or prevent a specific key branch in the program's execution.

Phreaking:

The art and science of cracking the phone network.

Security by design:

The technologies of computer security are based on logic. There is no universal standard notion of what secure behavior is. "Security" is a concept that is unique to each situation. Security is extraneous to the function of a computer application, rather than ancillary to it, thus security necessarily imposes restrictions on the application's behavior.

There are several approaches to security in computing; sometimes a combination of approaches is valid:

1. Trust all the software to abide by a security policy but the software is not trustworthy (this is computer insecurity).

2. Trust all the software to abide by a security policy and the software is validated as trustworthy (by tedious branch and path analysis for example).

3. Trust no software but enforce a security policy with mechanisms that are not trustworthy (again this is computer insecurity).

4. Trust no software but enforce a security policy with trustworthy mechanisms.

12 tips for computer security:

1. Update / patch ALL your software every now and then!

2. Check / adjust ALL your settings so they are safe, since they ARENT by default!

3. Use firewall, like ZoneAlarm to control what goes in and out from your computer!

4. Use good passwords: at least 13marks long, containing both letters and numbers. Remember to change your password every few months atleast and dont ever use the same password in two places!

5. Get a good antivirus program: NOD32, F-Secure or Norton Antivirus and keep it updated!

6. Don't open or execute files that you are not 100% sure are absolutely safe nomatter where or how you get them.

7. Wipe your historyfiles (like cookies, internet history and temporary files, etc.), logs and personal files, with specific wiping program (like Eraser) instead of just deleting them.

8. Use encryption to enhance your privacy! Use encrypted email (like Hushmail or Ziplip), www-surfing and encrypt sensitive files on your computer (PGP).

9. When you are finished using some internet-based service like email, sign out of it rather than just closing your browser! Also, when you leave your computer, make sure that none of such programs or connections are left open that someone could abuse. In WindowsNT/2k/XP, press Windowskey+L to lock the workstation.

10. Don't use public computers for anything you need to type in your logins, they usually have Trojan horses that capture your passwords.

11. Make backups and store them in safe place! Easiest way to do a total-backup is to make an "Image" of your harddrive or partition and store it on safe location, but floppies will usually be just fine for storing documents, etc.

12. Install and Use a Hardware Firewal

Regards,
Kethy Wright
http://www.perceptionsystem.com

Kethy Wright is having a good Skill in Computer Hardware & Computer Security Systems. Know about for your Computer Security from his knowledge here.

Computer Loans - An Opportunity to Have a Computer of Your Own

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

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

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

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

Benefits of owning a PC: -

oResearch - You can research on any topic of interest.

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

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

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

oCollaboration - You can access online syllabi, course requirements

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

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

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

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

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

Mary Jones has no formal degree in finance, but years of work that he has put in the finance industry makes him perfectly eligible to be called an expert in financial matters. To find Computer Loans, unsecured loans, cheap personal loans, bridging loans visit http://www.loans-4-uk.co.uk

The Truth About Computer Addiction

Is it stretching things to be speaking of computer use in terms of addiction? What if your job involves using a computer eight hours as day, are you addicted? It really comes down to a matter of intent and effect. With the ease of accessing computers, it is becoming increasingly easier to develop a computer addiction. Computer addiction affects people of all ages and of all social backgrounds.

Computer addiction is something that easily occurs in those who wish to hide their identity. A computer addiction allows the person to become whoever he wants to be, even if only for a short period of time. They can create a fantast world and get lost in it. This is quite different from just working on your computer at the job.

Those suffering from a computer addiction are also drawn by the fact that they can be less inhibited when communicating with people through the Internet. Therefore, people who have problems interacting socially with others are more susceptible to developing a computer addiction.

But not all people who abuse computer time are social misfits or recluses. With computer and internet access becoming increasingly simpler, many people suffering from computer addiction have found themselves sucked into a lifestyle where the world is only a mouse click away.

A person suffering from computer addiction will often show signs of irritability when removed from their computer. There are classic 'withdrawal symptoms' a person suffering from a computer addiction can exhibit. They spend an extraordinary amount of time on the computer. The result is that their relationships, their jobs, and their schooling will suffer. They may may unaware that these things are collapsing around them, and will continue to engage in this behavior despite neagatice consequences.

A person suffering from a computer addiction will also often feel empty when not on-line. To satisfy the computer addiction, the person will wake up early and stay up late just to use the computer. The time spent on the computer just seems to slip away for the person suffering from a computer addiction, as he slowly loses control over the amount of time he spends on his computer.

A computer addiction can also destroy relationships as the person with the computer addiction begins to believe that their on-line acquaintances are their best friends. Furthermore, the person with the computer addiction doesn't enjoy the time he spends with his loved ones because he is too preoccupied with thoughts of using his computer. A person suffering from a computer addiction will also begin to feel nervous if he has gone too long, sometimes just a mere hour, without checking his e-mail.

A computer addiction is a potentially devastating addiction. It should be taken seriously and professional help should be sought by a person suffering from a computer addiction. Though computer addiction is not yet widely accepted, the principles of addiction are similar and a professional therapist should be able to help.

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How to Speed Up Computer - The Hassle-Free Way

Are you aging as you wait for your tediously slow computer to respond? Getting overly frustrated with crawling processor speeds? Wish you had a sleek, new fast computer? Computers don't have to be slow. Slow computers don't have to stay that way. If you are willing to take action, you can have a fast, responsive computer. If you are worried that a quick computer repair is going to cost you a bomb, then fret not because there are hassle-free ways available for you to give your PC a fast and easy tune up.

No matter where we are, using a computer in an inescapable task in modern society. Considering how dependent we are on it, it is only natural to want a fast computer. If you are ready to part with your money, then shouldn't have problems buying a high end computer on a whim. But if you're not, then let's examine some hassle-free, low costs ways in which we can speed up our computers.

#1 Avoid multi-tasking

Everyone is guilty of this. It is normal for computer users to open an array of applications at one go. The problem with this is that when too many applications are running all-at-one-go, chances are your RAM space gets used up all at once. As such, this causes your computer to become laggy and eventually your computer screen will freeze up. So, to avoid the problem of laggy computers, simply learn to minimize the use of numerous applications at one go.

#2 Simplicity is the best

Keeping everything simple on the desktop can also minimize the problem of laggy computers. Computer users like to use fancy wallpapers, animated mouse pointers and such. But little did we know that these fancy 'things' on our desktop can slow everything down. So try your best and avoid using high-resolution pictures as your wallpapers and resist the temptations of using that pulsating heart as your mouse pointer. You'd better ask yourself if it is worth your while to turn your desktop into an animated circus.

#3 Easy computer checkups

Just like humans, computers need regular check ups too. Regardless of how new a computer may be or however seemingly ancient it may look, it is necessary that you conduct constant check ups on your computer. There are free computer check ups available online. Some of these free computer check ups are as good as their commercial counterparts. Simply make full use of the free computer checkups, as they are able to diagnose any errors, viruses and spywares that might be present in your computer. The great thing about this is that these free computer checkups will also help to solve the errors for you too.

Speeding up your computer does not necessarily have to be expensive. The tips and tricks mentioned above won't even cost you a dime! Just remember to do regular check ups on your PC and you can be assured of a hassle free experience the next time you use your PC.

Click Here to speed up your computer for free. Logan Albright is an authority on troubleshooting computer problems. He provides valuable advice to thousands of people on how to optimize their computers through a proper computer check up.

Techniques To Speed Up Computer

For users of the windows operating system, it is important for you, the consumer, to have the necessary knowledge to speed up computer processing speeds of your pricey IBM or Dell computers. Tired of all that difficulties in supporting multiple memory-hungry applications such as Adobe Premiere Pro and Dreamweaver? Or are you sick of your Pentium Core 2 Duo computer running at the speeds of a 486 desktop? If you are facing any of the above mentioned problems, read on to learn more about techniques to speed up computer processing speeds. You will soon be able to do more with your computer and achieve greater productivity in any computer-related task you do.

Hardware and software considerations play an important role in speeding up your computer.

In terms of hardware, it would be highly recommended for computer users to purchase additional memory modules for their computer. RAM or random access memory is a computer hardware that provides a computer with the ability to support complex and comprehensive applications such as Adobe Premiere Pro. Failure to install sufficient RAM for your computer will result in it not being able to be utilized to the fullest potential as you would find it difficult to support the running of multiple applications to satisfy your work requirements. Computer applications all require a certain amount of memory space to function smoothly. This includes your computer's operating systems such as Windows XP and Windows Vista. RAM is cheap and relatively easy to install, requiring a mere set up time of about 10 to 15 minutes. If your computer is still under warranty, you should bring it back to where you purchased it from and request the vendor to provide you with a RAM upgrade at a fee. Otherwise, you can purchase a memory module and install the RAM yourself. Information pertaining to memory upgrades can often be found relatively easily over the internet. Ideally, I would suggest 1gb of RAM if you are running Windows XP and 2gb if you are running Windows Vista. In any case, the returns are instant and you would enjoy a noticeable increase in computer processing speeds.

Software wise, it would be a good idea to clean up your computer registry using a registry cleaner. Preference and setting files are stored by Windows for all software and hardware installed into a computer. When a software or hardware is uninstalled, these preference and setting files are not removed. Over time, these would cause a build up, slowing down your computer. High quality registry repair software scans your computer registry for such files. These are then listed and can be deleted easily. The end result would be appreciably faster processing speeds for your computer.

In addition, it would also be a good idea to invest in a good anti-virus and spyware remover program. It is common to find viruses and spywares embedded into websites these days. These have the purpose to track your surfing activities and run in the background without you knowing, slowing the speed of your computer. Good anti-virus or spyware remover program weeds out viruses and spywares, allowing your computer to function at a much faster speed. Subsequently, it blocks out any future invasions of such malicious software into your computer system.

The key to computer maintenance lies in diligence and discipline. Never rush to junk your computer for a new one just because it starts to run slowly. Often, the root of the problem can be easily solved through a combination of methods. Collectively, these allow you to speed up computer processing speeds, restoring that old, trusty IBM of yours back to its former glory.

Logan Albright is an authority on troubleshooting computer problems at http://www.pcaholic.com - Where he helps thousands how to optimize their computers through a proper computer check up. Click Here to speed up your PC for free.

The Secret To Build Your Own Gaming Computer

For a gamer, what can be more fulfilling than to build your own gaming computer? In fact, the only way to get the best out of your computer and maximize your gaming experience is to build it yourself. However, there are tightly kept secrets among computer retailers that they don't want you to know, because it will affect their profitability to a great extent. This article will reveal the secrets that all gamers need to know.

Secret 1) It is very easy to build your own gaming computer

If everyone knows how easy it is to build a computer, then no one will be buying from the computer retailers. This is why most computer retailers tell you that it is very troublesome and complicated to build your own and it is better off to buy one off the shelf. In actual fact, my 10 years old kid took only 1 hour to figure out how to build a computer. How long do you think you need?

Secret 2) It is much cheaper to build your own gaming computer than to buy one off the shelf

Keep in mind that the main focus of the computer retailer is to make as much profit from you, not how good your gaming experience is. As such, never expect a cheap gaming computer from computer retailers. Occasionally, computer retailers may package their computers in a low price to entice you to buy. The fact is: you will not be getting the quality component that your price is paying. Most of the parts in the computer will not be suitable for gaming usage. It might boost the latest CPU in the market, but the power supply, graphics card, motherboards and memory are parts that get obsolete very fast. If you are patient enough to shop around and source for the parts you want, you can save up to 30 - 50% of what you going to pay at the retail stores.

Secret 3) Off the shelf computers are not upgradeable

Building your own computer allows you to choose the parts that are upgradeable in the future. Off the shelf computers don't and the retailers are keeping mum about it. Most off the shelf computers are using parts that will grow obsolete in a year or two times and the only choice you have then is to buy another computer from them again.

Secret 4) You don't need extended warranties and technical support

Your computer retailers will definitely sell you the benefit of having extended warranties and technical support because they know that most of the time, it will not realise and it is a pure profit for them. By buying one, you're betting that your product will break, that the extended warranty will cover the damage, and that repairing the product would cost more than you paid for the extended warranty. In that case, why bother to buy from them in the first place? When you build your own gaming computer, each part comes with warranty. Even if it spoils, you only have to change the individual part rather than the whole computer. This is much cheaper than what you pay for the extended warranty. In addition, the lifespan of a computer system is generally 3-5 years. By the time your whole computer system is spoilt, it is also time to get a new one because all your computer parts will be obsolete by then.

The only way to get the best out of your computer, be it the cost or the gaming performance, is to build your own gaming computer. Computer retailers are keeping mum about this fact and trying means to entice you to buy from them. If you are serious about gaming, don't ever let the computer retailers stand in your way of owning your very best gaming computer.

Damien Oh has great passion in building gaming computer. He shares his passion, expertise and knowledge in his website http://www.build-gaming-computer-guide.com. You can find tons of information and resources on building gaming computer, hardware reviews, installation guide, PC games reviews and many more. To find out more secrets and free information on gaming computer, check out Build Gaming Computer Guide now!

The History of the Computer

As man evolved into a more intelligent being, the storage of information became more important to him in order for this life to be more rewarding.

Modern information technology would be just a coined phase if it were not for the invention of the computer. The computer as we know it is an electronic machine that processes data via a set of instructions, to perform a specific task and store and recall information at the touch of a button. It can be fun, especially with all the exciting features and games on it. It also helps, in many ways, to solve complex problems on its own. It is used in almost everything we do, for commercial, medical, science, the arts and personal uses.

The abacus was the most popular manual calculating device in the world. It is a mechanised pebble counter, the squire like structure has on beads strung on wires, and the beads are slid along the wires when counting or adding. The Abacus dates back over two thousand years. And it is still being used by some parts of the world today. The storage of information in that time era was evolving into a more efficient system as the business world was growing rapidly.

In 1944 the first computer hardware was born, which was known as the Mark 1. It was power off vacuum tubes and consume a lot of energy, especial been very large in size.

The second generation of computers was ushered in by the invention of the transistor. This was from 1959 to 1964. The development of the integrated circuits in 1963 "ruled the roost" until 1975 where they made further advancement by placing the entire circuit on silicon chip along with other computer components.

Advancement in computer technology

Micro Chip

Robert Noyce, a scientist who found Intel Corporation, developed the microchip. He created the chip by putting thousands of integrated circuits on a minute silicon chip. The chip is actually a microelectronic "system" capable of performing various tasks. It is not only the computer that uses the microchip but also pocket calculators, radio, television and cell-phones.

The improvement in the integrated circuits has made it possible for scientist to pack a large number of computer components on a single chip. The complexity that this combination produces on the digital circuit is due to the number of transistor or logic gate that is installed on the tiny chip. This makes it possible for large-scale integration. This allows multiple processing of jobs at the same time. For example, you can be playing music CD, while running excel or word.

These very small computer parts, which are not larger than the size of a baby's fingernail, are extremely powerful. It carries the main processing power in the computer hardware and is referred to as the microprocessor or the central processing unit. The CPU is made up of the control unit, the arithmetic/logic unit and the register. These elements are held on the integrated circuit or the silicon chip. Because of the microchip, more complex mathematical and very large amount of data can be processed. Since the advent of the silicon chip, science and technology has grown by leaps and bounds. No other advancement has made such a significant contribution to the industry.

Personal Computer

The personal computers have become very popular all over the world. These computers can be seen in offices, in the home and entertainment centres. The first personal computer was available to the public in 1974 by Miroc Instrumentation Telemetry Systems (MITS) of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The personal computer was called the Altair 8800 and was retailed for $400. It had no keyboard and no permanent storage space, in fact it was a built it yourself kit.

The personal computer kit had a tremendous demand and so small manufacturing computer companies started to pop up to satisfy this demand. One such company that improved on the personal computer by adding computer parts such as a keyboard and display terminal was Tandy Corporation (Radio Shack), Tandy's model computer in 1977 could be programmed and stored information by using cassette tapes.

Today personal computers are more complex in its computer software architecture, in which you have multiprocessing of jobs. That means you can listen to a CD while working in Excel or word, as I had mention earlier. Thanks to a computer components known as the microchip.

Intel, who is the developer of the microchip, has dominated the PC market, in term of computer hardware, and has launched their new low-price Poulson chips. It has a speed of 10 GHz. computer companies such as Dell and Compaq have already begun to offer the new chip on their processors. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) who is a computer supplier of integrated circuits and communications software with their home page provides links to product and information, is saying that AMD Athlon 3Dnow! Chip is needed on the Pentium to run some application properly. But they also believe that Intel, who is the trailblazer, will continue to "rule the roost ", because, before the year-ends, they will be coming out with the chip with processing speed up to 1THz. This new advancement is expected to roll out Intel Pentium. This move will send the price of personal computers further down. Intel is hoping that Microsoft new Windows Operating System; Windows 7 will spur demand for their new Pentium.

Throughout the world more people and businesses are buying computers and computer parts to do their day to day routines. The development of the silicon chip reduced the size of the personal computer so it can hold on a desk and also in a shirt pocket. It has become more powerful and more affordable for the average person.

Computers are categorized in three categories, main frame, micro and minicomputers. Mainframe computers were with us since the first computer but the inception of the microchip made it possible for a computer to hold in a shirt pocket and 100,000 times faster than the first generation of computers!

Information systems development

Computers are helping to teach handicaps, disadvantage and gifted children. It also uses voice synthesizers to talk to them. Space travel, weather prediction and designing productions for the market, also construction of skyscrapers, would be impossible without supercomputer. You can be a thousand miles away and communicate information to a computer system, via a small device attached to your computer known as modem. Networking of computers makes it possible for management to make on the spot decisions. All these things are possible through systems known as the expert system and artificial intelligence. Software information system development in areas like transaction processing systems, Management information systems and decision support system are used in the commercial arena.

The Internet can make information that is found in a library, be available to you at the push of a button, when your computer is connected to it. In addition, it has revolutionized the communication industry. Advancement in computer technology allows for larger storage system by using honeycomb structure, which can store up to 40 petabyte of data and can be available in less than a second. Laser technology has further expanded the storage capacity making the computer possible to store up to a 1 million terabytes of data in a space the size of a post stamp. Furthermore, scientists have predicted that the beam of the laser has the potential of carrying all the conversation going on at once on the earth!

In addition to storage capacity, the flash drive can store up to 256 gigabytes or an equivalent of 1,000,000 textbooks. All this information on a stick 1/4 the size of a pencil, that is Incredible!

The future

The only intelligent computers that we have experienced are what we see in science fiction movies. Yet what you are seeing is what scientists have in mind. That is why the Americans and the Japanese are in a "rat race" to see who can first come up with the first thinking computers. If this breakthrough occurs, it will require major changes in construction and programming of the computer.

Scientists have just scratched the surface with virtual reality. What they hope to achieve is for the computer to reason, to learn from experiences, to reflect, and to make its own choices. Although computers have been programmed to learn from experience, such as playing games, it cannot think on its own. Scientist first has to understand and fully define the thinking process before they can make a breakthrough in common sense reasoning.

Conclusion

Computers have become a vital tool in the business world, because it allows faster processing of information, therefore greater productivity at the work place.

Whether we like it or not, computers are here to stay, it's what we call the computer age. The speed at which information is processed frightens many workers, fearing it will put them out of jobs. Rest assures that computers are not here to take over. They are here to assist man to get ahead faster.

Computers have helped us tremendously in every facet of life, for example doctors use computers in term of AI, to help disabled patients to walk and hear better and perform operation when he is 4000 miles away from the patient! It also helps in the education of emotionally impaired and both gifted and disadvantaged students. It is a vital tool to scientific research and advancement. The results are all around us. You just have to stop and think where all those wonders of technology came from.

The industry that has benefited tremendously from computer technology is the business industry. It has revolutionized how business activities are conducted all over the world. The computers have become a part of the business structure and operation procedure; in fact, it has become second best to the human resources.

Garth Simpson is passionate about computers and he is the CEO of his own business. Please visit:
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