Computer: Software Tips | Hardware Tips

Microsoft Outlook 2007, Deleted The POP Up, Restore Function

2012-01-08T13:08:00.001+05:30

Tony from North Carolina writes:

I have a question about Microsoft Outlook 2007. I think I inadvertently deleted the pop up that tells me that I forgot to name the subject. How to I restore this function?

Hi Tony,

By default, Microsoft Outlook 2007 does not provide a reminder for missing Subject Lines. However, you can create macro that provides this functionality in Microsoft Outlook 2007. Similar to other macros in Microsoft products, you will create the macro using Visual Basic (VB). I’ll provide the code and you’ll insert and save the code in the Microsoft Visual Basic Editor. Before you create Macro, you’ll need to check the Macro Security settings. Let’s do that now.

Check and Enable the Macro Security Settings

Step 1: Launch Microsoft Outlook 2007.

Step 2: Click Tools > Macro > Security, as shown below.

Step 3: Select Warnings for all macros and then click the OK button.

Now, you’ll create a macro that reminds you to insert a Subject line before sending the email.
Create and Save the Macro

Step 1: Ensure Microsoft Outlook 2007 is open. On the keyboard, keep the Alt key pressed and then press the F11 key. Alternatively, click the Tools > Macro > Visual Basic Editor. The Microsoft Visual Basic Editor appears.

Step 2: Expand Project1 in the Project pane.

Step 3: Double-click ThisOutlookSession. The code pane appears.

Step 4: Copy the following code in the code pane.

Private Sub Application_ItemSend(ByVal Item As Object, Cancel As Boolean)
Dim strSubject As String
strSubject = Item.Subject
If Len(Trim(strSubject)) = 0 Then
Prompt$ = “You’ve left the Subject empty. Are you sure you want to send the Mail?“
If MsgBox(Prompt$, vbYesNo + vbQuestion + vbMsgBoxSetForeground, “Check for Subject”) = vbNo Then
Cancel = True
End If
End If
End Sub
Tip: The text in italics is the Warning message. You can customize it.

Step 5: To save this macro, click the Save icon and then close Microsoft Visual Basic Editor.

Step 5: Now, restart Microsoft Outlook 2007. Click the Enable Macros button at the following prompt.

Now test the macro. Restart Microsoft Outlook 2007 and attempt to send an email with a blank subject line. You should get a warning message, as shown below.

That’s it!
~Rupen

Blu-Ray Player + Internet = Great Entertainment

2012-01-08T13:00:00.000+05:30

From: WorldStart Tech Tips 01-05-2012 News Letter.

For my last birthday I received a Blu-ray player and the box said that the player would work with streaming videos from online video streaming services such as Netflix and VUDU.

Really?

Time to do some investigating…

I quickly found that if you connect the player to the Internet then you can subscribe to one of the services that the player supports and stream content from their site at any time you choose.

It turns out that a player can be connected to the Internet either by a cable or Wi-Fi through a wireless router.

To use a cable you’ll need to have not only the cable itself, but also an Internet access point nearby. (I would have had to run a cable across the living room, so I’m thankful that I had a wireless router already in the house ready to go.)

If you’ve got a player that has built-in Wi-Fi and you have a wireless router in the house, then you’re in a great position to get online, sign up for a service and get things started.

However, if your player isn’t Wi-Fi ready then you’ll probably have to purchase an adapter to make that connection.

I bought an adapter for my player, and I do have a word to the wise – be sure to get the correct adapter. When I looked the information up in the owner’s manual it was very, very clear that there was only one adapter that would work with my system.

After purchasing the correct adapter all I had to do was to plug it into the USB port in the back of my player and connect the player to the router just like I did with my laptop and iPod. The player detected the Wi-Fi and asked for the password. It was that easy.

Once it was connected I signed up for Netflix and followed the simple directions that both Netflix and my owner’s manual provided. Basically you have to use a code provided by your player with Netflix to establish the account.

Voila!

My player is now connected, I have my subscription to Netflix and I there’s more content to pick from then I would have ever imagined.

If you’ve got a Blu-ray player that has this feature, then I highly recommend that you check it out! You could find some great entertainment (not to mention savings over rental or cable costs) through a piece of equipment that’s already sitting in your house.

~ April

Computer Tips | Top 10 Computer Troubleshooting Tips

2011-06-27T10:24:00.001+05:30

10 The most common computer problem solving and advice to correct this problem is as follows.

1) The computer can not start if the computer does not start when you press the power button, the following suggestions may help you determine why your computer does not start: Check the computer is plugged into an outlet properly. Plug another electrical outlet to make sure the outlet is providing adequate food.

2) The computer screen blank.If the screen is blank, the computer can be configured to display the image on the computer screen. First, check whether your monitor plugged into an outlet and connects to the computer safely and make sure the monitor power button is on. If the light does not turn, means that the output is not delivering power to the monitor.

3) Problems with the video card. If the power light on the computer and the monitor is on and nothing appears on the screen when the computer starts, then there must be something wrong with your video card. You must take your computer to a repair or replace your video card with the new.

4) Software is operating normally. If the software does not respond or responds abnormally, follow these tips. Restart your computer and run a virus scan. This must have a reliable antivirus software installed on your computer to solve this problem.

5) Windows will not boot properly. If Windows does not boot properly, then you should have to reinstall Windows with the Windows CD recoverable.

6) The computer is on but not responding. If the computer is on but not responding to commands from the software or the keyboard, then be frozen or stopped. Press and hold the power button for at least 5 seconds, turns off. Now restart the computer.

7) An external device does not work if an external device does not work as expected, it turns on according to manufacturer's instructions, make sure that all connections of the devices are safe and receiving electric power and compatible with the operating system. The drivers are installed and updated.

8) slow work computer. You can improve the performance of your team for the hard disk clean of unwanted files, run disk defrag utility, getting rid of unnecessary icons on your desktop, install a firewall, install antivirus and antispyware tools, schedule scans registration period.

9) Internet working slow. To increase the performance of your browser often to clean cookies and temporary internet files.

10) issue of the Internet. If the computer can not connect to the internet then check the IP address, check the network cables are connected properly, make sure the portal application servers or firewall is not blocking HTTP requests from your PC.

Keyboard Shortcuts: Huge Keyboard Shortcut List

2011-03-28T14:47:00.003+05:30

What exactly is the allure of keyboard shortcuts? Do they really save time? I mean, why bother if your mouse is permanently attached to your hand, right?

Well, I like to use keyboard shortcuts quite a bit, especially if someone is watching me, because they make me look like a pro! With just a few key strokes, I can leave a mouse spinning his wheel. So, whatever your motivation, here’s a big list of keyboard shortcuts for you to try out. I hope you enjoy them!

General Shortcuts
ALT + F4 - Quit a program/Shut down.
ALT + TAB - Hold down the ALT key and hit the Tab key to cycle through open windows.
CTRL + ESCAPE - Display the Start menu.
SHIFT + TAB - Tab backward through a form.
CTRL + X - Cut
CTRL + C - Copy
CTRL + V - Paste
F1 - Help menu
CTRL + Z - Undo
SHIFT & Restart - To restart just Windows and not your whole computer, hold down the Shift key when you click the OK button on the shutdown screen. This will save you a lot of time.
CRTL + TAB - Navigate tabs on a tabbed screen.
File and Desktop Shortcuts
Hold SHIFT while inserting a CD - Prevents the CD from “autorunning.”
If an item is selected:
CTRL while dragging a file copies the file.
CTRL + SHIFT while dragging a file creates a shortcut to the file.
SHIFT + DELETE - Deletes an item without sending it to the Recycle Bin.
ALT + ENTER - Display a file’s properties.
F2 - Rename a file.
In Windows Explorer:
LEFT ARROW - Collapse the current selection if it’s expanded.
NUM LOCK + MINUS SIGN ( – ) - Collapse the selected folder.
NUM LOCK + PLUS SIGN ( + ) - Expand the selected folder.
RIGHT ARROW - Expand the current selection if it is collapsed or select the first subfolder.
NUM LOCK + * (asterisk sign) – Expand all folders below the current selection.
F6 - Switch between left and right panes.
In My Computer:
BACKSPACE - View the folder one level up.
ALT + RIGHT ARROW - Move forward to a previous view.
ALT + LEFT ARROW - Move backward to a previous view.
Internet Browser Shortcuts
For Internet Explorer 6 (may work in older versions as well):

Open History Window	Ctrl + H
Reload	Ctrl + R
Back (Previous Page)	Alt + Left Arrow or Alt + Backspace
Forward (Next Page)	Alt + Right Arrow
Stop	Esc
Home	Alt + Home
Go to Bottom of Page	End
Go to Top of Page	Home
New Window	Ctrl + N
Close Window	Ctrl + W
Go Up One Line	Up Arrow
Go Down One Line	Down Arrow
Full Screen (toggle)	F11
Find on Page	Ctrl + F
Add Current Page to Favorites	Ctrl + D
Print Current Page or Active Frame	Ctrl + P
Organize Favorites (Internet Explorer) and Manage Bookmarks	Ctrl + B
Maximize a Window	Alt + Space + X
Minimize a Window	Alt + Space + N
Scroll Page Up	Alt + Up Arrow
Scroll Page Down	Alt + Down Arrow

Internet Explorer Only

Open Favorites Bar	Ctrl + I
Select Text in Address Bar	Alt + D
Force Reload (not from cache)	Ctrl + F5

A faster way to type in addresses with Internet Explorer is to just type in the name of the site:
For example, just type “worldstart” into your address bar and hit Ctrl + Enter. The “http://www.” and the “.com” parts will be added for you!
Windows Key Shortcuts
The Windows key can be used in conjunction with other keys to act as a keyboard shortcut for faster access to menu commands. Now, while the Alt key tends to open program menus (for example, Alt + F opens the File menu and Alt + E opens the Edit menu) and the Ctrl key performs actual operations (such as Ctrl + C will copy and Ctrl + V will paste), the Windows key will open various Windows tools.
Win key + R will open the Start menu’s Run box.
Win key + F will open the Start menu’s Find window.
Win key + E will quickly launch Explorer.
Win key + Pause/Break will open the System Properties window.
Win key + M will Minimize all open windows.
Win key + Shift + M will undo the minimize of all open windows.
Win key + D will switch between minimizing all open programs and showing them all.
Win key + Tab will cycle through items on the taskbar.
The Windows key by itself will open the Start menu.
You can also open programs or folders on your desktop by pressing the Windows key + the first letter of the program/folder/shortcut + Enter. Sounds kind of tedious, but if you’re in a bind with your mouse, it can come in quite handy!
Arrow Tricks
Here’s a cool little arrow trick to try with word processing programs. The next time you’re using your arrow keys to go from one area of a sentence to another (left and right arrows), hold down your Ctrl key. Instead of moving one space at a time, you’ll go one word at a time.
If you’re using the up and down arrows to go from line to line, holding down the Ctrl key will make your cursor jump from paragraph to paragraph (well, from carriage return to carriage return anyway).
One last thing: If you hold down the Shift key while you do this (for instance, hold down Shift + Ctrl at the same time), you select text as you arrow along.
I’ve tested this in MS Word and Wordpad, but it should work no matter what word processing program you use.
Home/End Key Fun
Do you ever find yourself scrolling through a huge folder? Well, if you need to get to the beginning or the end quickly, just press Ctrl + Home. If you want to get to the end, click Ctrl + End.

And hey, that’s not all!
This little trick works on more than just folders. If you use the Home key in a word processor, it goes to the beginning of the line you’re currently working on. If you hit the End key, it should head to the end of the current line. If you pair Home and End up with the Ctrl key in a word processor, you will be whisked away to the beginning or end of the document. Again, this should work, but it depends on your word processing program.
Wow, that should be enough to keep you busy for awhile. Have fun!
~ Steve
If you enjoy our tips, tell your friends. That’s what keeps this newsletter growing.
http://www.worldstart.com/referafriend.htm

What is CPU over-clocking? - techbusy

2011-03-28T11:51:00.001+05:30

The CPU works on two frequencies: An internal and an external.

The external clock frequency (the bus frequency) is the speed between the CPU and RAM. In the Pentium CPU’s it is actually the speed between L1 and L2 cache. In the Pentium II it is the speed between L2 cache and RAM.

-The internal clock frequency is the speed inside the CPU, that is between L1 cache and the various CPU registers.

Since clock doubling and bus speed can be freely adjusted on the motherboard according to your desires, you can in principle make the CPU run at 300 MHz.

You set the bus to 75 MHz and the clock factor to 4. Then the CPU runs at 300 MHz – if it runs. The question is whether the chip will tolerate that – if it will give a stable performance, since clock doubling means more than added heat.

We have now seen that there are two frequencies which can be manipulated, if you want to re-clock the CPU: The bus frequency can be increased, let’s say from 66 to 75 MHz. The CPU frequency can be increased.

That can happen as a result of an increased bus speed, which also affects the CPU frequency, or it can happen by using a greater clock factor. Or it can happen through a combination of both techniques.

Both techniques result in a faster PC. If the bus frequency is increased, it affects all data transport to and from RAM. It will work faster, to the joy of all work done on the PC. When the CPU internal frequency is increased, many applications will be happily affected.

The main disadvantage of over-clocking is your CPU will get heat and becomes hot which tends to break working circuit.

Source: http://www.techbusy.org/

HP Pavilion Slimline S5550z, Cheap Desktop Computer

2011-01-31T10:05:00.003+05:30

HP Pavilion Slimline Review S5500z help buyers who are looking for cheap desktop computer, but great performance of the HP company. This team is for you if you are a small business or who are looking for a PC for personal use. This machine is exclusively elegant structure designed to accommodate small tables and rooms. Although you can not take this team of desktop and laptop, which only occupies much less space as laptops. We will immediately proceed to determine the characteristics of this machine durable and high performance.

First find out the price of the machine before you get to know their characteristics. This machine can be purchased if you’re willing to spend $ 300. This cost is for basic functions and you have to pay extra money when you choose the highest setting. small businesses will be impressed with this model HP Pavilion Slimline S5550z.

Samsung NF310 A01 Laptops

2010-12-16T06:24:00.000+05:30

Standing in the netbook mass has become quite the challenge late, but Samsung still managed to impress us with the slim design, high resolution, and dual-core Atom processor NF310. The Samsung NF310-A01 sports a curvy aesthetics, which are light years ahead of many of the boxy netbook is we have to expect. It also looks as if it should be more than the $ 399 it costs for listed structure. His nearest competitor, the Asus Eee PC 1015PEM and the Acer Aspire One are D255 pack both of the same processor, but very different styles. The choice among them to check a style and a close look at the Samsung specifically brings to the table, as the performance required in these machines is a head-to-head.

The NF310 is a slim, attractive, professional-looking device for which low body weight (2.9 pounds) of your travel bag not complain much. The NF310 slender body measures 1.2×10.8×7.4 inches and is framed in chrome sneer. The curves of NF310 elements definitely visually appealing to the netbook and make it out. The cover is made of shiny plastic, anthracite, show that stains easily prone wound. Matte-silver plastic covers the keyboard deck area and complement the glossy black screen bezel and matt-black keys.

The NF310 offers a range of ports that is identical to its competitors options. Along the left to find a power port, a VGA output, a USB connection, a microphone input and a headphone jack. The right side sports two USB ports, a four-format flash card slot, an Ethernet port and a slot. Connectivity options include 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi wireless networking and Bluetooth 3.0. Samsung is closing its fast-start technology, a special sleep mode, restore from which the system includes only 3 seconds.

Samsung AllShare home network feature lets you connect wirelessly to other DLNA-compatible devices NF310 Samsung HDTVs, smartphones, cameras, PCs and other video, photos, music and more via Wi-Fi. You can, for photos to your DLNA-compatible printer. If your house is decorated in Samsung devices, you probably do not have a ton of benefits received from this function, but it’s a cool idea that the potential has to rationalize your media sharing.

Edged in chrome, the NF310 is silvery touchpad is attractive, but less than the extra-wide touchpad of the Asus Eee PC 1015PEM found. The touchpad features multi-gesture support and is generally less fussy than the Asus 1015PEM, but we noticed occasional lag when we tried to zoom and scroll. In addition, the silver feels rocker button below, to the left and right mouse clicks for you, cheap to the touch, although it is quite appealing. Overall, the touchpad is one of the NF310 is weaker features.

We were more with the good looks of the island’s keyboard, the black keys sit impressed on a cover of silver plastic. The keyboard is spill-resistant, and we were glad that the letter keys are designed with adult finger in the eye. Thanks to Netbooks wider chassis, the keyboard is more spacious than the Asus Eee PC 1015PEM’s. However, the Asus feels 1015PEM the keyboard is very stiff and robust, while the NF310 keyboard flexes easily under the fingers when typing.

The 10.1-inch display with backlight LEDs and sports with a matte non-reflective surface. The native resolution is 1366 x 768 pixels (720p HD playback for) and provide a decent multimedia experience. During a local high-definition video that came preinstalled on the hard drive, we noticed sharp details and rich, bright colors. When we streamed video over a Wi-Fi connection, but we have found the same choppy playback that common in netbooks. On the other hand, the speaker of the NF310 are powerful enough to fill a small room, and the sound quality of Samsung True2Sound SRS sound system is better than what we other netbooks we’ve tested too.

Not only are the speakers loud, but the built-in microphone picks up sound quite clear. Unfortunately we have found some movement in a video that we recorded over the blur 0.3-megapixel camera (VGA) webcam that is built into the top of the screen frame. (If you activate the webcam with the launch of the pre-installed CyberLink YouCam utility.) We snapped a few photos with the webcam and found decent clarity if skin tones were a little pale. For a netbook packs the NF310 a decent webcam, if you do not do much to move it.

The core components are found within the NF310 identical to those found inside the Asus Eee PC 1015PEM and the Acer Aspire One D225. Anchored in a 1.5GHz Intel Atom N550 Dual-Core processor, the 32-bit starter edition of Windows 7 and 1 GB of RAM out, the NF310 similar to comparable systems. To test the NF310 is processing power, we ran three of our standard tests. The first was our Windows Media Encoder (WME) test in which the NF310 our standard test video file transcoded in 18 minutes and 36 seconds. The Asus Eee PC and the Acer Aspire One 1015PEM the D255 NF310 surpassed by narrow margins, each with times of 18:26 on this test and 18.16,. For our second CPU evaluation, we ran our iTunes test, which has to convert the unit to 11 MP3 files to AAC format. The NF310 completed this test in 19 minutes and 36 seconds, just over a minute faster than the Asus 1015PEM (which was 20:48) and 3 seconds slower than the Acer Aspire One (19:33). Our last test processor Cinebench 10, all available processor cores on the CPU taxes. The NF310 score of 1,458 on that test was strong for this class of netbook and is almost identical to the Asus 1015PEM score of 1451. You can use the basic office tasks to do on this system and method uses a minimal amount of media. Larger projects, but you should definitely book for your primary PC.

The NF310 integrated Intel GMA 3150 scored as expected on our 3DMark06 score spectacular graphics acceleration test. At its native resolution of 1,366 x 768 pixels, the NF310 returned a score of 145 and at a resolution of 1,024 x 768, a little better 149th Likewise, the Asus Eee PC 1015PEM, the same graphics accelerator features as NF310, 148 in its native resolution (1366 x 768) and 149 x with a resolution of 1,024 768th The Samsung N210, a unit we reviewed earlier this year a couple of points higher than the NF310. That’s all sorry news for gamers, since each score of 1,000 translates into a real poor gaming experience. Then again it is typical to see low scores for a netbook return graphics like this that look also to such tasks as photo rendering, video, and games at all levels.

Although netbooks do not often make ideal companions gaming, they tend to exceed our demanding battery-rundown test, where we stream video wirelessly to the display and volume settings to half power. In this test, took the NF310 six-cell battery provides an acceptable 4 hours and 9 minutes. The Asus Eee PC 1015PEM the battery lasted almost an hour longer (4:53), a time that will better serve field staff on a budget. For those who are always connected their PCs, the NF310 Battery Life Extender mode helps boost the battery life in the long term by charging it tend only 80 percent of its capacity.

On the 250GB hard drive, Samsung bundles a mixture of software and bloatware, typical of all netbooks. These programs include trial versions of Microsoft Office 2010 and Norton Internet Security and full versions of Microsoft Silverlight, Windows Live Essentials and a generous slice of Oberon Media games. In addition, covered under the warranty from Samsung NF310 for up to one year, which is standard.

At $ 399, the Samsung NF310 is a lean, low-cost netbook that offers acceptable performance in its class. The Fast-Start technology is a feature anyone can appreciate, and I like a little while AllShare narrow or fake for some people, it will probably be very useful for others. Competition in this market is tough, however, and models such as the Asus Eee PC 1015PEM and the Acer Aspire One D255 offer similar performance levels at slightly lower prices. However, we still want to NF310 choose between these three netbooks for its more professional design.

[http://thinklaptops.net]

Firefox Quick Bookmarks

2010-09-10T17:47:00.001+05:30

Here’s a nifty way to keep all your frequently visited sites easily within reach in Mozilla Firefox.

All you have to do is drag and drop a bookmark into the little space in between the navigation buttons and where you first tab starts.

Like this:

Now keep dragging and dropping bookmarks as desired.

You can also drag and drop open tabs into these spots, as well as site headers of some websites, too!

Give it a try today!

~Andrew

Multi-Tab Start Up for Internet Explorer

2010-09-10T17:46:00.002+05:30

I don’t know about you, but I have a routine when it comes to browsing the Internet. I go to the same sites every day to check out news, stocks, comics and blogs; leaving all the extra curricular stuff for after I’ve checked my usual stable of sites.

So that’s why this Internet Explorer 8 trick appeals to me. Today we’re going to learn how to make it so when you start IE 8 all of your daily sites come up in their own tabs!

Open Internet Explorer 8 and click Tools>Internet Options.

Make sure the General tab is selected and under Home Page type in the addresses of the sites you want to open up when you start IE.

Like this:

Now click OK and restart Internet Explorer.

Voila!

~Andrew

What's the difference between "run" and "save" when I download a program?

2010-07-07T14:34:00.000+05:30

Timothy in Arkansas asks:

What's the difference between "run" and "save" when I download a program?A:When you are downloading a file off the internet you may get the option to "Run" or "Save". Either of these options will lead you to the setup for the program and install it on your computer, but the difference lies in where the setup file opens from.

If you click "Save" you can specify where the setup file goes (Downloads or the desktop). From there you could put it on a disk just in case you need to reinstall it or want to put it on another computer.

By choosing "Run" the setup process starts once the setup file is downloaded to your temporary internet file. When you empty your temp file the setup download goes away. This is great if you aren't a download packrat, but you should be clearing out your temp files often or they can get clogged with downloads.

Me? I usually download to my Desktop then delete after install or save to a Downloads folder or send to a disk.

P.S. If you have Win XP or newer and the file is zipped (.zip extension) you will get the option to "Save" or "Open" the folder.

~David

Well, that helps a whole bunch! Rate or add to this tip here! The printer-friendly version is here!

Worldstart Computer Tips 7-7-2010

2010-07-07T14:28:00.002+05:30

Avatar

I'm sure you've all heard of the term "avatar" before, right? Besides being a 3D movie by James Cameron, it is also a pretty common term in today's Internet world. Still, you may have heard of it and still not know what it means or what all it entails.

This is an example of an avatar picture.

An avatar is basically just an icon that helps represent you on the Internet. They are mostly used on site forums, game programs and some other online communities, like chat rooms. A lot of people use a picture of themselves for their avatar, while others just use a favorite picture of something they like. For example, right now, my avatar on WorldStart's message board is a beautiful yellow flower. Why? Because I love flowers!

Most Web sites that allow you to have an avatar will have instructions on how to get yours posted. They will probably have certain guidelines (sizes, content, etc.) that you will have to follow, but they're generally easy to create. For instance, WorldStart's maximum size allowed is 100x100 pixels or 19.5 KB (whichever is smaller). So, now that you know exactly what an avatar is, you can get started on creating your own. How fun is that?!

~ Erin

Choose Sticky Notes Software And You Won't Forgot Anything Anymore

2010-06-21T16:52:00.001+05:30

Loads of paper around and no way to organize them? Problems in keeping track of all your ideas and ongoing projects? Too many things to remember and so little help from your agenda? Sticky notes software is the best solution you could ever find. by AndyZhang

This kind of software is so easy to use that you find yourself wondering how you succeed in your daily tasks without it before. It enables your to manage a busy workday quickly, to have notes on to the desktop and above all it's ok for both beginners and experienced users.

Forget about all the sticky sheets of paper on your work desk: everything you need will be properly organized on your desktop computer: daily tasks, groundbreaking ideas and even that meeting with the old university mate you have forgotten already two times.

Simplicity is the keyword to describe this notes software: all its features are packed into a easy to use interface, from to do lists, to memos and notes sorted by category or tag.

Your memos are also manageable with tags and keywords, so you can filter them and having to hand only what you really need. If you like you can also personalize them by editing their appearance, choosing the coolest style, size or font and also if make them transparent or not.

Digital sticky notes will be to your hand only when you decide to have them: it just takes a click to make them disappear and to clear up your desktop, focusing just on the activity of the moment. During this time your virtual notes will stay hidden or minimized and you will be able to decide to make them pop up whenever you need, by using them also as reminders or alarms.

You can also carry your notes with you, it's very easy: you just have to copy the application in your Flash Drive or choose to send an email with them attached or even using internet or WLAN/LAN connection.

English, Dutch, Italian, Maltese or every other language you like is available for your Sticky notes software: it will be able to speak with you without any language barrier and make your life easy as you've never thought before.

Learn more about sticky notes software. Stop by Andy Zhang's site where you can find out all about sticky notes freeware and what it can do for you.

A Short Exploration On Choosing The Right Ink Cartridge For Your Printer

2010-06-21T16:50:00.000+05:30

If you have noticed that your printer isn't giving you the same amount of performance that it used to, it may be time to change the cartridge. However, there are a few things you should know about choosing the right ink cartridge for your printer. The following tips should help you make sure that you are making the right choice for your printer. by JohnRichards

In most cases, if it seems that your printer is not making the correct prints or colors seem to be incorrect, you most likely need to update your printer cartridge. There is a vast amount of cartridges that you can choose from when you are looking for replacements. But not every cartridge is going to be the most appropriate. You will realize that you need quality in order to achieve the best results.

For most printers, there is some indication of what the ideal cartridge is for use. This is usually listed in the manual or somewhere on the box. If you do not have either of these, then you can usually also figure out the type of cartridge you need from looking at the old one that you were using previously.

In some cases, printers may be able to use various types of cartridges. There are many printers that are able to use multiple types of cartridges and list these in the manual. You may want to do some research about which cartridge is more suitable for what you are intending to print, or the cartridge that is known to give optimal results.

You should also consider what type of cartridge that you want to use. Most commonly, people buy only new cartridges so that they know they are getting the most out of the cartridge itself, especially in consideration of their money. However, there are other options such as used cartridges. Typically used cartridges have been refilled so you can use them again, and they cost cheaper.

Another popular option are cartridges that are compatible with your printer, though not specifically being designed for use with the printer. It is important to realize that you will get various results with these. For the most part, this is only popular with people who want to refill their own cartridges.

You can find a variety of cartridges available online or at stores. You may want to pay attention to the pricing and do what you can to shop around for the best deal. At many stores that sell cartridges, you will be able to get some advice on which cartridge will be the best for your printer and other assistance to help you with making your choice.

Overall, choosing the right ink cartridge for your printer can be easier than you might think. You only need some basic information and to pay attention to the main details. As long as you are careful about the cartridges you use, you should be able to continue to get exceptional performance from your printer with each use.

Today, the wide range of printers means there is also a vast number of printer cartridges. Picking the correct ink cartridges for your printer can be done if you pay attention to models and brands.

Tips And Tricks For Top PC Utilities Software

2010-06-10T22:09:00.000+05:30

A lot of the top PC utilities software can be complex and difficult to use. There are dozens of menus and buttons everywhere that, much of the time, have ambiguous meanings for new users. If you are getting somewhat established with some of this software, here are some tips and tricks that can help you get through the day.by AdrianaNoton

Adobe software like Adobe Acrobat Reader is used for the purpose of reading important documents as well as books. It is extremely useful and an essential tool for many PC users, but oftentimes people do not know exactly what to do about all the options, leaving documents zoomed out too far to read.

If you want to zoom in, you can hold the CTRL key and press either the plus or minus key on your keyboard. This will allow you to easily see the words on the document. If possible, hold CTRL and press the 4 key to reflow the words so there is no need to scroll left and right.

You are most likely using the hand tool to scroll up and down. You can actually change the mouse function so that you can select text within the document. Simply navigate to the tools menu and choose Select Cursor, which looks like the normal arrow pointer. With this you can highlight parts of the document to copy and paste them in emails or any other text document.

Microsoft Word is probably the most useful tool on the market today. Students and business owners use this program for all kinds of reasons, but sometimes it is a tedious task to find the toolbar with the mouse to change styles to bold, italics, or single and double spaced.

In Word, you can use the CTRL and 1 or 2 keys at the same time to switch from single and double spaced. This way you do not need to click the buttons at the top with your mouse, and you can even do it to individual paragraphs or even the whole document. Just highlight with the mouse what parts you need to switch around.

Again in word, if you hold the CTRL key and press either the B, I, or U keys, it will switch the writing style to either bold, italics, or underlined. Press the key again to toggle it off. This can be extremely useful because it removes the need to actually move the mouse and click the buttons.

Holding CTRL again and pressing the space bar this time will turn on AutoCorrect. This makes it so that when you make a mistake, Word will automatically change it to what it should be, though it does not always work correctly. When you are finished, press F7 and the program will check your spelling and grammar.

These are only a few tips for a couple of the top utilities for PC, but they can be a tremendous help for anyone who struggles with the software on a daily basis. Learn these hotkeys and you will be on your way to a more productive working day.

About the Author: Buy computer software in the reputable online kingdom at low, affordable prices. Customers can expect friendly and efficient service while shopping for Adobe software and Microsoft software.

The New Cisco GBICS GLC SX-MM Is The Latest From This Company

2010-06-10T22:08:00.001+05:30

If you are an avid hardware watcher then you must have learned of the latest roll out from Cisco in the domain of hardware. It is called the GBICS GLC SX-MM and is in the domain of network liquidators and can be bought new or an older model refurbished.

by JohnSmith

The new device is one of the proud products from the renowned company, Cisco. When you love hardware and want to get the very best of it then why not try out the latest version that has been rolled out by the renowned company, Cisco. It can be bought in several different forms such as brand new or refurbished models. The ones that you choose depend on your budget but what you are promised is for them to be most reliable and give the end user an extremely amazingly impactful experience.

The networking that comes along with it is the connectivity technology wired and cabling type which is Ethernet 100Base-SX. The expansion connectivity that one gets along with the GBICS GLC SX-MM is interface 1 multiplied by network which is Ethernet 1000Base-SX-LC multi-mode multiplied by 2. It has compatible slots 1 * SFP for the mini-GBIC.

There are several websites that have an entire package deal of accessories, and up-gradations along with the buying of the hardware. if you opt for these package deals then they will work out to be far more competitively priced and you will end up saving a whole lot of money in the bargain.

There are different ways in which you can go ahead and buy it, either new or refurbished ones. The device bought so can work out to be a real cost saving venture for the customer. This refurbished version comes to the customer at a fraction of the cost of the original but at the same high quality standards of the original. This ensures that the buyer has several options along with the buying of different accessories and up-gradation at a later date if need be. There are websites wherein you can get the whole package deal of anything that is even remotely connected with the hardware such as adaptors, cables, memory, storage, maintenance and so forth.

The way the Cisco GBICS GLC SX-MM works is that it is an input output device that plugs into a Gigabit Ethernet slot and links it to the fiber optic. The device is able to operate on a multimode fiber optic link which spans up to 550 meters in length.

About the Author: Looking to find the best deal on Cisco GBICS GLC SX MM , then visit http://cisco-gbics-glc-sx-mm.in/2010/06 to find the best advice on glc sx mm for you.

Selecting The Perfect Headphones - A Quick Guide For Dummies

2010-06-07T09:25:00.000+05:30

Are you overwhelmed by the flood of regular and wireless headphones? You never heard of the terms open and closed headphones or dynamic and static transducers? This overview will help you select the perfect model. by GunterFellbaum

Are you overwhelmed by the flood of regular and wireless headphones? You never heard of the terms open and closed headphones or dynamic and static transducers? This overview will help you select the perfect model.

Headphones come in many styles and designs. The smallest type are in-ear headphones. These headphones are plugged inside the ear. Some models have a bracket that wraps around the ear. These type headphones can easily be stored in a pocket. They are often bundled with iPods or MP3 players. A larger type of headphones have earpieces that sit on the ears but are still quite small. These headphones have an elastic frame that connects the two earpieces. This frame either sits on the head or wraps around the neck. If your budget is tight then you should probably focus on these types of headphones. They are the least expensive of all models. Some models provide insulation from external noise to some degree.

If you are able to spend more, you could look at medium-end headphones which are larger than these very small type headphones. Each earpiece has an ear cushion that depending on the model either sits on top of your ears or wraps around your ears. Many people prefer the second type since there is no pressure on the ears. If you feel you would like to go with this type of headphones, you will then need to decide whether to go with an open, semi-open or closed design. An open design means that the audio can penetrate from the transducer to the outside and also cross-couple into the other earpiece. Some people think that an open design will sound light and more natural. A closed design on the other hand will not allow the audio to escape and also block exterior noise.

Today's headphones are dynamic headphones for the most part. Dynamic indicates what type of transducer is used. Static headphones are the second type. This type is fairly expensive but offers high sound quality. Static headphones need a special headphone amplifier.

Wireless headphones are another option which eliminate the headphone cord. Bluetooth headphones are one type of wireless headphones and work with Bluetooth-enabled devices and cell phones. The operating range is typically only 30 ft or less. Bluetooth headphones do normally not offer audiophile sound quality.

Other wireless headphones often work at 900 MHz and use FM transmission. These headphones are the least expensive wireless option. More advanced digital wireless headphones work at 2.4 GHz or 5.8 GHz. FM wireless headphones have noticeable hissing and audio distortion. They are also prone to interference from other wireless devices.

Another type of wireless headphones are digital wireless headphones. This type of headphones, such as Amphony headphones, will encode the audio prior to transmission which prevents any audio distortion during the transmission and ensures high reliability against interference. Digital wireless headphones which work at the less crowded 5.8 GHz frequency band have fewer problems with competing wireless devices than headphones working at 2.4 GHz.

About the Author:

Gunter Fellbaum has been designing audio and electronic products for over a decade. You can find additional details about wireless headphones and other wireless audio products from Amphony's website.

Find Out What Goes Into A Top Home Theater System

2010-06-07T09:22:00.001+05:30

A home theater system is something which anyone who enjoys watching movies and listening to songs must have. With the right system you can enjoy the best quality of sound at your home. by FredMartimes

A home theater system is something which anyone who enjoys watching movies and listening to songs must have. With the right system you can enjoy the best quality of sound at your home.

The home theater?s quality is determined by a number of factors which also acts as the differentiating factor between other systems and home theaters. For choosing the right theater set, you need to first understand these.

Total count of speakers is the first feature of interest. You could get system with 3 to 10 speakers. The right distribution of these speakers around your room would ensure that you have the best quality sound at a level you desire.

The presence of other aids to audio along with the speakers is the next factor. Equalizer and other sub woofers come under this category which also helps in enhancing the sound quality.

There are different kinds of these sound aids, make sure that you are choosing the right home set that matches your needs and requirements.

After that, comes your part of the job. Choosing the right spots to locate your speakers will help the home theater to perform much better and get better sound than usual. Always read the manuals and see what your friends had done in order to get you the best sound.

The last and most important point is the budget. This could be a determinant point for many people as you may like the set but you cannot get it because of the price.

The best thing that you can do in order to avoid any depressions is to make sure what your budget is before you start looking for the home theater that you want to buy. This will help you narrow the selection and keep you focused in the right sector that you should look into.

About the Author: Come and take a look at this wireless home theater article site.

This Game Might Be The Closest You Computer Geeks Will Ever Get To Getting It On. This Is Mass Effect 2.

2010-06-02T10:03:00.000+05:30

One of the things you might not have heard is the fact that the new Action Adventure RPG developed by Bioware under Electronic Arts is every computer geeks wet dream. Great game play, great story and best of all depending on your choices you can "Do it" with almost all the girl characters. Which is as close to sex as you nerds will ever get. I kid. On those lonely nights there is always Sasha Grey. This is a "nice" game so you don't really see anything but they do leave you with quite a lot to imagine. One thing that does bother me though is that pixelated sex between the characters still isn't quite spot on just yet. Just the the puppets from "Team America".

by ShazFerouz

One of the things you have not heard is the fact that the latest Action Adventure RPG developed by Bioware under Electronic Arts is every nerds wet dream. Great game play, great story and best of all depending on your choices you can "Do it" with almost all the girl characters. Which is as close to sex as you computer nerds will ever get. I kid. On those lonely nights there is always Sasha Grey. This is a "nice" game so you don't really see anything but they do leave you with quite a lot to imagine. One thing that does bother me though is that pixelated sex between the characters still isn't quite spot on just yet. Just the the puppets from "Team America".

What is quite spot on in more ways than one however is the visuals and game play. Mass Effect 2, or ME2 for us cool people, is the continuation to Mass Effect 1 (yup Captain Obvious strikes again) and was released on Xbox 360 and PC. The game starts out with Commander Shepard's ship the Normandy getting blown up. Shepard pretty much dies there and ends up lost in space. Don't worry though because in the future when you're dead they can always bring you back. He comes back to life 2 years later to do battle with a new mysterious alien race called The Collectors. Now I might be giving away the plot a little but I think its pretty safe to say that they collect things.

Combat involves you and two 2 other team members and sometimes pull off some pretty nifty tag team moves and combos. Drawing enemy fire and flanking them for an example. Visuals are a class above the rest and you definitely get that whole jump up and start dancing feeling when you defeat a difficult enemy or stage. You can check out some of the video reviews and previews on Youtube to get a better picture of what I'm talking about.

You have plenty of sub quests and various different endings that will make you want to come back to this game once you are done. Play the game as a badass, or a good guy or somewhere in between and you'll find that you will have different options as the game goes on.

ME's voice cast is epic with many famous celebrities lending their voice to spice things up. You'll be playing and go like "Hey why does this guy sound so familiar?". Well its probably because you have watched Battlestar Galactica, or The Matrix or Austin Powers (Yeah Baybeyy). Expect the likes of Martin Sheen, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Seth Green, Yvonne Strahovski, Adam Baldwin, Keith David, Michael Dorn, Tricia Helfer, Michael Hogan, Carrie-Anne Moss as well as some veteran voice actors.

Mass Effect 2 sold over 2 million copies in a week after it hit the shelves. My only advise is give your family and friends a heads up because once you start playing this game you wont know what day it is.

Go and get it already!

About the Author:

If you liked this article check out some other reviews and video reviews on Dotcom.my.

Panasonic KX-MB283: Budget Solution For SMB

2010-06-02T10:02:00.000+05:30

by StanRetner

The Panasonic Corporation is globally famous as a company offering equipment powered by laser printing technology. Panasonic solutions may satisfy the needs of various customers. There are Panafax Workio laser fax machines and multifunctions for large enterprises and offices with high volumes of monthly printing. For small and medium working groups Panasonic offers relatively affordable and effective devices like laser multifunctions with fax features.

Today we will get acquainted with the possibilities of Panasonic KX-MB283 laser MFP. The key difference of this model from its "younger" brother in series, the KX-MB263, is the availability of the 20-sheet ADF and the LAN network interface (10/100 Base-T).

Panasonic KX-MB283 is designed to perform various tasks in the office, as it unites a laser printer, copier and color scanner under one roof. The device meets all the requirements of small and medium offices for the right MFP: printing and copying rate of up to 18 ppm, ability to scan color document and pictures in high resolution (600 x 1200 dpi) in batch mode (up to 20 sheets), several connectivity ports, and compactness.

Design and decoration of the KX-MB283 laser MFP can be called the trademark of Panasonic: light gray shade body, frontal information panel and color coded controls.

You would not have difficulty assembling and preparing the MFP as the procedure is well illustrated in the attached instructions.

Panasonic KX-MB283 printing system is powered by electrostatic copying. To extend the service life of the replaceable units, the toner cartridge and the drum are manufactured as two separate parts.

After the toner cartridge and drum unit have been unpacked and assembled, the made up kit is installed into the appropriate slot in the device. In addition to detailed descriptions of each step in the instructions, assembly of MFP is much facilitated with icons depicting each step.

The MFP can run in autonomous mode, that is without a computer, but you can connect it to desktop over USB 2.0 or LAN. However, even in autonomous mode the device retain the functionality intact, with monitoring of operation processes and service messages.

The Panasonic laser printing devices have long reached the brilliant printing quality. So, the outcome of printing tasks was expectable: results were admirable for the announced 600 dpi. Good production of vector elements, great rasterizing algorithms for images and vector elements, brilliant reproduction of fonts confidently legible at the size of 6 pt, and even 4 pt for some fonts.

Economy mode of printing makes the prints less contrast and clear. However, the outcome is good enough for drafts, especially given that the usage of toner drops to 40%, according to the specifications.

The built-in scanner demonstrates high quality work. Since the device reproduces colors just fine, for any office work the quality of scans can be described as abundant.

The function of copying, the child of marriage of scanner and printer, also produced quality output. The copied pages were of just a little less good compared to the printed pages, however, you can hardly notice it without close examination.

The running costs of the Panasonic KX-MB283 are comparatively small: the toner cartridge KX-FAD92A lasting 2,000 copies costs around $33. The photoconductor (KX-FAD93A) lasting 6,000 copies would be $100 more. Thus, based on the usual occupation of small and mid-sized offices, this printer would require only modest financing from the budget.

Don't forget about the 18 pages per minute of laser printing and copying speeds, high-rapidity USB 2.0 and network 10/100 Base-T interfaces, and the possibility of high-quality scanning of color and monochrome images, including the batch mode.

About the Author:

Panasonic KX-MB283 laser printer looks good as a piece of office equipment for small and med-sized offices. Provided you correctly estimated the document flow of the office, because if laser toners for 2,000 copies aren't enough even for a week, it probably makes sense to think of other MFP with capacious Panasonic laser toners.

Inside MCSA Network Technical Support Computer Training Courses

2010-06-02T10:01:00.000+05:30

by JasonKendall

Whether you are new to network support, or an IT professional looking to gain accredited qualifications, there are interactive MCSA (Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator) training tracks to cater for both standards of student.

Each category needs specific course material, so ensure the course is right for you before investing your cash. Search for an organisation that wants to understand what you'd like to do, and will give you direction on what you'll be doing, before they select your course.

How the program is actually delivered to you is often missed by many students. How many parts is the training broken down into? What is the specific order and do you have a say in when you'll get each part?

Many companies enrol you into a program typically taking 1-3 years, and drop-ship the materials to you piecemeal as you complete each exam. Sounds reasonable? Well consider these facts:

Many students find that the trainer's usual training route isn't the easiest way for them. It's often the case that a slightly different order suits them better. Could it cause problems if you don't get everything done in the allotted time?

For maximum flexibility and safety, many trainees now want to have all their training materials (which they've now paid for) sent immediately, and not in a piecemeal fashion. You can then decide at what speed and in which order you want to work.

Training support for students is an absolute must - ensure you track down something that provides 24x7 direct access, as not obtaining this level of support will severely impede your ability to learn.

Beware of institutions that use 'out-of-hours' call-centres - with the call-back coming in during office hours. This is useless when you're stuck and need help now.

The very best training providers use multiple support centres across multiple time-zones. They use an online interactive interface to provide a seamless experience, no matter what time you login, help is just seconds away, with no hassle or contact issues.

Don't under any circumstances take anything less. 24x7 support is the only way to go with computer-based training. Maybe late-evening study is not your thing; usually though, we're out at work when traditional support if offered.

The sometimes daunting task of finding your first job is often eased by some training providers because they offer a Job Placement Assistance programme. In reality it's not as hard as some people make out to find employment - as long as you've got the necessary skills and qualifications; because there's still a great need for IT skills in the UK today.

However, don't leave it until you have finished your training before getting your CV updated. As soon as you start studying, mark down what you're doing and place it on jobsites!

It's possible that you won't have even passed your first exam when you'll secure your initial junior support job; but this isn't going to happen unless you've posted your CV on job sites.

The top companies to get you a new position are most often independent and specialised local recruitment services. Because they make their money when they've found you a job, they're perhaps more focused on results.

A regular grievance for some training companies is how hard men and women are prepared to work to get top marks in their exams, but how little effort that student will then put into getting the position they're trained for. Don't falter at the last fence.

Being a part of the information technology industry is one of the most exciting and ground-breaking industries you could be involved with. Being up close and personal with technology is to do your bit in the gigantic changes shaping life over the next few decades.

We're only just beginning to get a handle on how all this will mould and change our lives. The way we communicate and interact with everyone around us will be massively affected by technology and the internet.

A average IT worker in the UK has been shown to get considerably more money than his or her counterpart in much of the rest of the economy. Mean average remuneration packages are some of the best to be had nationwide.

Demand for well trained and qualified IT technicians is a fact of life for the significant future, due to the ongoing development in the technology industry and the massive skills gap that we still have.

About the Author:

What Is The Best Virus Removal?

2010-06-02T09:59:00.001+05:30

When you think of a virus removal do you think of a program that is used to remove a virus from your computer, or do you think of a Virus removal service instead?

by RickMitchell

When you think of a virus removal do you think of a program that is used to remove a virus from your computer, or do you think of a Virus removal service instead?

Many programs are made to help you remove a virus from your PC and there are many virus removal services available today. Usually you don't need virus removal until you have a virus on your computer. The problem is that sometimes when you computer is infected with a virus, that virus will not let you install a virus removal program.

When your computer is infected with a virus you may need to choose a virus removal service instead of using a program. A virus removal service will have the know how and experience to remove the virus or actually break the virus so it will not work anymore. Then the virus removal service can use software to scan your system for infected files.

Virus removal programs work very well, when you are able to install them, but keep in mind there are virus's that are not able to be detectable by your average anti virus or virus removal software. These are called root kit viruses. In such cases as these you need to have the experience of a virus removal service to look for the individual virus files and remove them or prevent your windows operating system from being able to access them. The virus removal service may also have some very specialized software they use to detect and remove these root kit viruses.

Most virus removal services today can work on your system using special screen sharing software to allow them to access your computer remotely via the internet, this will usually be much less expensive then taking your computer to a shop, It can also save days of computer down time because they can generally work on it with out waiting too long. You can sit and watch while they work on your computer. Network administrators have been working like this for years, that's how 123VirusFreePc.com works too.

About the Author:

Learn more about virus removal. Stop by Rick Mitchell's site where you can get virus removal for your PC.

Netbook Versus Smartphone

2010-06-02T09:55:00.000+05:30

by RobertMann

The differences between a netbook and smartphone are getting increasing less as each new development is released. In fact, you will shortly have to look hard to spot these differences and then you will have a choice to make: one or the other. Which is best for you, and what factors should be considered in your choice?

If truth be told, it could be neither of them, because a hybrid looks likely given the rate at which technology advances these days, and it is not only you and I that are considering this dilemma but the developers themselves. Neither meets all of the needs of the other device.

When choosing between them and making a decision whether to purchase a netbook or smartphone you have several things to consider. Taking a very brief look at each, the smartphone is generally switched on since the battery will last days on one charge. That means no boot-up time and you are always ready to go. A netbook's battery, however, lasts 3-4 hours, so you have wait until it boots up before you can use it - not much use for answering calls!

It should be pretty obvious that if your main use is going to be connected with office work and/or if you are going to be browsing the internet frequently rather than just now and again, then the netbook will be more appropriate for you. You can easily purchase an inexpensive pay-as-you-go cell phone for your ordinary calls, and your netbook for prearranged business calls.

To be honest, your decision as to whether to use a smartphone or netbook will be dictated by whether or not you use your phone predominantly as a cell phone and occasionally use some of the apps it offers. In such a case then the smartphone is the smart choice. However, if your internet browsing is more than just casual, and if you use office applications such as a word processor and spreadsheet frequently, then get yourself the netbook. You can use it for calls when it is switched on and get a cheap pay-as-you-go for incidental calls.

If you opt for the netbook or smartphone as your sole device, you will not thank yourself for it. If you have one or the other, then purchase what you need to meet your needs either as a mobile computer or as a cell phone for occasional calls. The netbook is no good for calls because it will either have a flat battery or will take a minute or so to boot up - who is going to wait that long for an answer? The smartphone is no good for reports and spreadsheets, so your options are limited and your choices therefore obvious.

It should not be too long before current technology in roll-out screens and keypads, as are available in some e-readers, will extend to smartphones, and then the netbook will become redundant and obsolete. However, that day is not yet here and when it happens will likely depend upon the perceived future of the netbook by their makers. It is likely that one or the other will disappear in the form of an amalgamate device with the speed of a smartphone and the mobile office functionality of a netbook.

A roll-out screen and keyboard will take care of the office side of the notebook, and it can all be slotted into a slightly bulkier version of current smartphones such as the iPhone. It will come, but until then use the advice above. There is still no device that can adequately work both as an instantly-available phone and as a functional portable computer.

About the Author:

Robert Mann supervises e-learning technology products for a Fortune 500 firm. He has built an online application for finding the best product by sales rank located at http://www.BestProductSpy.com. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

How To Watch Streaming Cable Tv Online?

2010-06-02T09:48:00.002+05:30

Ever find that watching cable television is an endless foray into flipping channels just looking for some entertainment. The funny thing is that there seems to be nothing more than paid programming and movies that have already been seen twenty times. Is this the reason the cable and satellite bills have skyrocketed? Nothing even remotely close to what one wants to see; yet the bill is still there. A better deal is to watch streaming cable TV online. Little or no cost and shows are by choice, not because there is nothing else on television.

Everyday activities like errands and work can prevent one from viewing a favorite show. Forgetting a show was on can also cause a person to miss it. Watching missed shows is made easy to access by using a computer.

Online streaming television can mean being able to discuss the show's event or just listening to what occurred while other co-workers talk about the show during a meeting at the water cooler.

Options are endless. No one family member is stuck watching just one type of programming. Sports fanatics will have access to all things sports-related; those that enjoy a bit of drama or comedy are covered, too. Children's programming is a snap and kids can enjoy them when they like.

One more magnificent reason to partake in cable shows online is that there are hardly any shows inaccessible by country. Someone in the United States will be able to discover shows from China; those in India can share in television from Albania. That is the best thing about online viewing.

Think about being able to view TV when away from home. Just because a television is missing, does not mean there is no TV. Notebook computers are a good way to enjoy television when there is no TV around. Fun television viewing becomes easy when one can watch streaming cable TV online.

About the Author: Are you looking to watch Streaming Cable TV Online? See the Top 5 Satellite TV Software on the market now at http://www.review-best.com/satellitetv-software-download.htm and start watching over 3,000 channels on your PC for free now!

Customize your Thunderbird Toolbar

2010-05-29T12:56:00.000+05:30

Did you know that you can drag-and-drop toolbar functions to your Mozilla Thunderbird toolbar?

Well, you can!

Just right-click on the toolbar and select Customize.

The resulting windows contains a host of different functions you can just drag over to the toolbar as you see fit! You can also take existing icons away simply by dragging them back into this box or change how the icons are displayed, "Icons and Text, just Icons, etc.".

Customization! I love it!

~Andrew

Well, what do you think? Rate or add to this tip here! Printer-friendly version is here!

Windows 8 in 2012?

2009-11-21T09:31:00.000+05:30

Steven Sinofsky may not be talking about Microsoft's future Windows plans, but the Windows Server team appears to see more value in letting customers know its road map.

In at least two slides apparently shown at the Professional Developers Conference in Los Angeles this week, Microsoft suggests that a major release update to Windows Server is due around 2012, with one of the slides confirming the Windows 8 code name.

I've asked both the desktop and server teams for more context on the slides, which were noted this week by blogger Stephen Chapman. A similar slide cropped up--that time in Italian-- in August.

For his part, Sinofsky sat completely stone-faced when I asked him in our interview Wednesday where Microsoft was at relative to Windows 8--later noting that he hadn't even used the word Windows next to the numeral 8.

"I didn't say any of the words--Windows 8--those were all your words," he said

The 2012 time frame would roughly coincide with Windows Server's plans of having a minor release every two years or so and a major release every four years. It released Windows Server 2008 R2, a minor update, earlier this year as the desktop team released Windows 7.

In recent years, Microsoft has tended to line up its desktop and server releases fairly closely, although in this case the desktop OS was probably a more significant release than its server counterpart.

Originally posted at Beyond Binary

During her years at CNET News, Ina Fried has changed beats several times, changed genders once, and covered both of the Pirates of Silicon Valley. These days, most of her attention is focused on Microsoft. E-mail Ina.

Yeti USB Mic Is "The World's First THX Certified Microphone"

2009-11-13T12:38:00.001+05:30

At $150, Blue Microphone's new THX certified Yeti might not be the best investment for something as simple as Skype, but if you are doing podcasts, music recordings, or old-timey variety shows, it might be worth the extra cash.

Apparently, the Yeti is the first microphone to earn a THX certified distinction—something Blue Microphone views as a validation of its "incredibly low distortion, high fidelity, and balanced frequency response." Features include: a triple capsule array that allows you to record in stereo, cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional, an analog to digital converter and a built-in headphone amp for zero-latency monitoring. And the whole thing is ready to plug in to a USB port and use on your PC or Mac right out of the box.

Blue Microphones Announces World's First THX Certified Microphone, the Yeti USB Condenser Mic

Featuring condenser capsules in a triple array, Yeti is the latest, most advanced addition to Blue's line of premium USB microphones

(Westlake Village, California –November 10, 2009) – Blue Microphones (www.bluemic.com), a leading innovator in microphone technology and design, announces Yeti, the first THX® Certified microphone. The latest addition to Blue's new consumer line, the Yeti is the ultimate USB microphone for professional recording. The Yeti features:

· The first USB mic to offer Blue's premium condenser capsules in a proprietary triple capsule array for the highest quality, most versatile audio recording capability

· After rigorous lab testing, THX certification affirms the ultimate in recording and playback fidelity thanks to superior design and quality

· Four patterns (Omni, Cardioid, Stereo, Bidirectional) for incredible versatility and superior results in any situation

· Studio quality performance and features, with zero latency, amplified headphone monitoring, microphone mute, and hardware-based gain adjustment

Yeti is the first microphone to offer the quality and range of versatility to produce the best quality recordings in a wide range of situations, including podcasts, vocals, live or event recording, interviews, broadcasts, instruments, bands and more.

"Blue Microphones recognizes THX as a benchmark within the industry for professional audio production and playback. We, are honored to be recognized as their first partner for audio input," says John Maier, CEO of Blue Microphones. "Blue strives to provide the highest quality sound for both professionals and consumers alike and we are proud to provide such recognized quality with the new Yeti, the world's first THX Certified microphone."

Building upon the technology foundation established by the award-winning Snowball USB microphone, Yeti adds four distinct pattern modes, a zero-latency headphone output with volume control for direct monitoring, adjustable microphone gain control and a mute button. The Yeti's angle can be adjusted on its custom-designed desk stand. Following suit with the rest of Blue's desktop products, the Yeti features driverless installation and works with both PC and Mac.

"The THX Certified Yeti from Blue Microphones provides aspiring artists a recording solution that combines quality, usability and convenience for a wide range of audio applications," explains Matthew Chrispen, director of certification at THX. "THX testing and certification ensures the fidelity of the recording always remains true to its source, allowing artists to accurately capture voice-overs, interviews and other sound elements with confidence."

The Yeti, MSRP $149.99, will be available beginning December 2009, at Apple, CompUSA, Fry's Electronics, Guitar Center, other fine pro-audio and consumer electronics retailers and online at Amazon.com. For complete details, visitwww.bluemic.com.

Zebronics Optical Mouse

2009-11-13T10:18:00.003+05:30

i am using zebronics optical mouse. Before this, i was using iBall Mouse, and was happy with that, but ZEBRONICS is something different. some new exeprience with size, laser speed, better speed in motion and more clicking than other.

Usability 101

2009-08-31T17:31:00.001+05:30

Bad usability usually leads colossal losses for product manufacturers. This seemingly basic concept is the key to enhancing user experience and increasing product sales. The point being: if it isn’t easy to use, why should anyone use/buy it?

Let’s take a few examples to understand what usability is and why it is important. Do you know what the following sign depicts?

You probably got it right without much thought. This is one of the goals of usability: Complete the task or tasks without making the user think too much. This is an example of high usability. Now let’s look at another example, do you know what the following sign is trying to communicate?

It’s obvious that the designer of this signage is trying to convey, “When there is a fire, do not use the elevators, rather use the stairs”. Now, imagine you are in a building which is on fire and you see this sign. As it takes more time to read, you’d probably use the drawings to understand the message.

The top and middle drawings are self-explanatory. However, the stairs image is where you, a person trying to escape, might take a while to decipher. Why? Well…the sign doesn’t tell you which way to go. It shows a person going downstairs, while there is another person going upstairs. In a real fire situation, this would lead to chaos and a safety nightmare! This is an example of low usability and the consequences it can lead too can be drastic.

What is Usability?

Usability refers how easily a user can interact with a product to perform a certain task. Considering how broad this definition is, it is not surprising that usability is applicable to many products and processes, such as signage, software, books, web sites, and household products.

Usability is very common in everyday life. For example, do you remember how difficult it was to record your favorite programs by using a VCR or how easy it can be to purchase a product from a web site that has no usability errors? I’m sure you’ve had your fair share of usability related issues.

Before you read on, take a minute to list your favorite products and web sites. Three each will do.

When is a Product or Web Site Usable?

There are several factors that can be considered for gauging the usability of a product. The key factors are:

Easy to learn: Users should intuitively know how to use the product and its features. The last thing you want is to have a user read through pages and pages of a user manual.

Memorable: After using the system, users should be able to re-use the system without going through the manuals again.

Satisfaction: Users should appreciate using the system. It should be a pleasurable experience.

Now, look back at the list you created. Odds are that the items you’ve listed excel at the factors listed above.
Usability is the key to making successful products and web sites.

~Rupen Sharma

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MS Office | See Right Through

2009-08-31T17:28:00.000+05:30

See Right Through

Ever find yourself trying to create a "cut-out" or frame effect for a PowerPoint slide? (One shape inside another with the inside shape "see thru" to the slide's background).

Maybe something like this?

If this is something you've wished you could do then I've got good news for you - you can and it's easier than you may have every imagined.

Obviously, the first step is to create the shapes you're going to use for your cutout.

Since it's the inside shape we're looking to make into the cut-out it's the one we must direct out attention to.

To create this "see thru" effect we simply need to set the shape's fill to the background fill. Fortunately, this doesn't mean trying to match colors or search out patterns we simply tell PowerPoint to use the background and it will.

So, here's where we find the setting for background fill.

Older versions of PowerPoint:

Right-click on the shape and choose Format AutoShape.

On the Colors and Lines tab of the Format AutoShape dialog box you need the Fill section.

Click the down arrow to the right of the current fill color.

At the bottom of the list you should find Background choose it.

Click OK to exit to your presentation.

PowerPoint 2007:

Right-click on the shape and choose Format Shape.

You'll be presented with this Format Shape dialog box. Go to the Fill category (chosen from the list on the left side.)

Choose Slide background fill and click Close to return to your presentation.

And that's it when you place this shape over another it will appear to be see thru.

Oh and one more really cool thing if you move the shape around you'll find that the fill will "move" too. It really is a fill of the background behind the shape exactly as the background appears at any given location.

~ April

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I sometimes get URLs (website links) in my e-mail that aren't highlighted and I can't click. How can I get to the site?

2009-08-31T17:23:00.001+05:30

I know our more experienced web users are maybe giggling to themselves at this point, but I tell ya, I get this question a lot. When you come across a link you can't click, copy & paste it into your web browser, then hit Enter . You should be zipped away to the site in question.

But..but...why do I get links I can't click in the first place?

In most cases it has more to do with your e-mail client (program) than the person who sent you the message. For example, AOL won't show a clickable link unless the link is written in HTML code. Older versions of some browsers won't show the link as clickable unless it starts with http://, and the list goes on.

To be sure of reaching your destination, use the above method. Copy the link and paste it into your web browser. No fuss, no muss!

~ Andrew

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How to Change your Power Supply Unit

2009-08-27T17:00:00.000+05:30

How to Change your Power Supply Unit

The Power Supply Unit, or PSU, is the most important part of any PC, powering each section of your computer, it is essential to make sure it is running smoothly.

There might be multiple reasons for you to change your PSU, but the most common would be that you want to upgrade, as some higher range graphics cards need more wattage than your current PSU can supply. Another reason would be that your old PSU has died. If you are here, you'll be relieved to hear it's also one of the easiest components to replace.

What you will need to change your PSU:
- One Screwdriver (Generally a phillips head screwdriver, depending on your setup)
- Some Cable Ties (To keep the new PSU's wires together to increase better airflow and minimize the mess)
- One new PSU, and in some situations, a good amount of patience.

How to change your PSU:
- First, what you need to do is disconnect your PC from all of the wires going into the back and unscrew or unlatch your case in order to access the innards

- At this point you'll want to lay your case on its side and get the static electricity out of your body by either touching the bottom of the case or having an Antistatic band available. The reason you need to do this is because under the circumstances there's a high chance you'll be touching some of the computer chips. If the static from your body is released upon the chips it could greatly damage them, so always be sure to get the static out of you before touching anything inside your PC!

- Now here comes the fiddly part, first let's start off with the CD or DVD drives (optical drives).
+ Depending on how many you have you'll want to pull on the cord coming from the PSU going into the back of the drive until it pops out, if you have an older computer, they might be rather hard to pull out but keep pulling at it and eventually they'll come free.
+ What you'll want to do is remember what sort of connector came out of where. It will generally be either a Molex or a SATA connector. Keep this in mind for when you need to reconnect everything. Below are some examples of Molex and SATA connectors.

Molex Connector

SATA Connector

- With the optical drives done, you should move on to the HDD (Hard Disk Drive).
+ And just as with the optical drive, you'll want to pull out the PSU cord going into the back of it.

- OK so far so good, optical and hard disk drives done, so lets go for the floppy disk drive. Like the other components, just pull it out.

- Almost done, now look to the biggest chip in the computer, known as the motherboard. It should have one large connection on it coming from the PSU, this one will have a small latch on it, so before trying to take it out, pull on the small latch until its free and then pull the connector up.
+Depending on your PC, there might another four point connection near the fan on your PSU, this one will also have a latch on it. So like the one before, push on the latch and pull it out.

- With all the connections taken out take your screwdriver and take out the 4-5 screws at the back of your PC case that are holding the PSU in place, it's generally found at the top of the case. It's now safe to remove your PSU from the case.

- Now you'll want to place your new PSU into place, screw it into place. And now connect all the all the connections back into place, you'll want to use your cable ties to keep order inside of your PC.
- Once you have connected everything back up put your case back on and you're ready to go!

~Natasha Shepherd

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Shrink to Fit

2009-08-27T16:59:00.000+05:30

Shrink to Fit

Ever have data in MS Excel that's just a bit too long for the cell?

What happened?

Did the column widen to accommodate? Or, maybe you got the infamous ##### to let you know that the number didn't fit. Oh, and let's not forget everyone's favorite: the old "convert the number to scientific notation."

If the results of Excel's attempt to accommodate the large data are not to your satisfaction, here's an alternative you can try to see if you like it any better. (After all, too many columns with extra width may cause problems for printing later on in your day).

Excel has a cell formatting option called "shrink to fit." Its effects on data look like this:

What it does is reduce the font size for the data piece that's too long for the column. (Of course, there are limits and if the data is too long, Excel will also make some of the usual changes).

Also, should you increase the column width, Excel will automatically adjust the font size back up, maxing out at the original font size.

So, how do we "shrink to fit"?

That's a good question, so let's get to that part.

You need to begin by highlighting the cell(s), column(s) or row(s) that need this setting.

Next, we need to open the Format Cells dialog box. (Older version of Excel would use the Format menu, Format Cells choice; Excel 2007 users would need to click the dialog box launcher in the bottom right corner of the Font section on the Home tab of the Ribbon; or... everyone will find that either a Right-click, Format Cells choice or Ctrl + 1 will do just fine.)

At this point, you need to select the Alignment tab.

In the Text Control section, select the Shrink to fit choice.

Click OK.

That's it. Just one more tool to add to your toolbox when you're handling long data in Excel!

~ April

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How do I record over a CD-RW? I tried to record over it, but that didn't work it says to make it a blank CD first.

2009-08-27T16:50:00.000+05:30

Q:
How do I record over a CD-RW? I tried to record over it, but that didn't work it says to make it a blank CD first.

A:
We all know the difference between a CD-R and a CD-RW right? Once you fill up a CD-R, that's it, but a CD-RW allows you to re-write data and use the disk over and over again.

Keep in mind, though, that unlike a floppy or Zip disk, you cannot erase just one file from a CD-RW, but must reformat the entire disk to re-use it. The disk makers claim you can do this up to 1000 times (like any of us are gonna try it ;-)

The process for reformatting varies according to your CD burning software, but most programs will have an "Erase Disk" button somewhere.

In addition, as we often mention, Windows XP and Vista have built-in CD burning. If you put in a CD-RW that you want erased, double-click the CD recording drive, then under "CD Writing Tasks", click "Erase this CD-RW". The CD Writing Wizard will walk you through an easy 2-step process giving you a blank CD-RW to use.

REMEMBER: This will delete all files from the CD-RW, you cannot erase single files. There are, however, products out there that make your CD-RW's act like really big floppies.

Oh, did I mention that this tip also applies to DVD-Rs? Well, it does!

~ David

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Core 2 and Core 2 Duo?

2009-08-27T16:49:00.000+05:30

Core 2 and Core 2 Duo?

Back in the day buying a processor was as simple as looking at the megahertz or gigahertz and purchasing based on the bigger number. I know there's more to it than that like onboard cache and what-not, but in comparison to what we've got to work with today, life seemed simpler back then.

So, for example, what's the difference between Core 2 and Core 2 Duo?

Let's explore!

Core 2 is the successor to Intel's Pentium D line of processors, which was basically two Pentium 4 “Prescott” processors duct-taped together and called Dual Core. Core 2 is this, only with a more refined construction, making it more efficient in terms of both power and consumption of power. This design is perfect for laptops.

Core 2 Duo, on the same hand, is the successor to the Core 2 architecture, but is designed for desktops and laptops. Once again, more powerful and more energy efficient than previous models.

It's just a matter of variants at this point, with the familiar “gigahertz” numbers buried deep within the processor's specifications sheet. You'll see something like Core i7 950, which just so happens to have multiple processors running at 3.06ghz. The next model up, the 965 Extreme, clock in at 3.20ghz per processor. Remember to search the manufacturer's website for more info, and if you're still confused, Wikipedia has some decent information on all of the current processors on the market.

~Andrew

There's a little help with an otherwise confusing predicament. Rate or add to this tip here:
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Monthly Wallpapers | August Wallpaper

2009-08-27T16:47:00.000+05:30

August Wallpaper

Here's this month's free calendar wallpaper! As always, it's 100% free, so head on over and grab one!

Early Morning On The "French" (Photo contest winner)

Taken at Five Fish Resort & Marina on the French River about 5:30AM.

Water Lily (Photo contest winner)

One of the Water Lillies at the Huntington Library.

Bryce Canyon

It's all free, so enjoy!

All can be found here:

http://www.worldstart.com/wallpaper/index.php

Enjoy!

Avira Anti-Virus Basics

2009-08-27T16:42:00.000+05:30

Avira Anti-Virus Basics

If you have been using the various types of software offered by companies active in improving the security status of the personal and business computers, you've more than likely have heard of the popular Avira AntiVir program along the way. Like the other efficient and feature rich anti-virus and anti-Trojan applications, the latest release from the Avira company has lot of options worth taking a brief look at.

Although you can easily use the paid version of the Avira, (which has been downloaded millions of times) there's also a lite version that can be installed on personal computers for free. The latest version of the program is 9.0.0.407 and clocks in around 32MB in size to download off the net.

After installing and launching the program on your computer, the tray icon will always display the program and by right clicking on that, you can either activate or deactivate it.

For accessing the main options and panel of the program, right click on the tray icon and select the second option to load the main window of the software.

The working interface of the program is user friendly, with easy to reach options and links. The recommended status of the AntiVir Guard is to remain activated as this status will protect your system against threats and Malware.

The second option on the panel will tell you when you last scanned your computer using the software and if you like to restart the process, simply click the respective link and the scanning phase will get switched on.

While the program is checking your computer for Adware and Malware, you will see the reports displayed on your screen regarding the number of the infected files which could harm your system, plus the number of scanned folders and other useful information you might be interested in knowing about.

By default, Avira has been adjusted to allow the important updates and patches be downloaded automatically and then installed on your computer. Keeping Avira in optimal updated shape is highly recommended, but if you would like to manually run the update, simply use the link.

To download the latest version of the software, simply click the link below and you can save and install it on your computer conveniently. http://download.cnet.com/Avira-AntiVir-Personal-Free-Antivirus/3000-2239_4-10322935.html

The application can run on the computers which have either of the Windows 2000, XP or Vista operating systems. If you are interested in testing the other ranges of products the company offers, like the Firewall program you can take a look at their website: http://www.avira.com

~Hamid Reza

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Folder Toolbar

2009-08-27T16:40:00.000+05:30

Folder Toolbar

I found this one by accident. I was dragging a folder to the Recycle Bin but instead I dropped it at the top of the screen. Surprise! A toolbar appeared at the top displaying the contents of the folder. Pretty cool.

I noticed that not all the files were listed, then I saw a double arrow on the right side and clicked it. There I found the rest of my files.

Then the novelty wore off, so what to do? Well, if you right click an empty area of the toolbar and select "Toolbars" you can uncheck the folder name from the list.

If you like the toolbar but don't want it showing all the time, you can also choose "auto-hide" for it to appear when you mouse over (as long as you don't have other toolbars already on auto-hide).

What a nice surprise.

~ Chad

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Today at worldstart.com Emoticons, Obsolete Skills

2009-08-27T16:37:00.000+05:30

Emoticons
Emoticons are little text representations of emotions that you find in email, chat rooms, and IM's. When you talk to someone, they can tell what you mean by the tone of your voice or the look on your face. Want some examples? Sure you do! Check out Worldstart today!

Obsolete Skills
Dialing a rotary phone? Shorthand? Refilling a fountain pen? All obsolete skills that have been lost in the sands of time. Want to re-learn them? Check out the Worldstart site today and get all nostalgic!

Here's the link you need: http://www.worldstart.com/ Enjoy!

Get Right To It

2009-08-27T16:36:00.000+05:30

Get Right To It

When you open a file in one of your MS Office programs do you find that you're always navigating away from "My Documents" to some other folder?

Ever wish that it would just open up to that location in the first place?

If so then here's the good news you can set each program to go directly to whatever location you desire when you go to open a file.

I can honestly say that this is one of the first adjustments I make when "moving in" to a new computer. While I use many different folders to help sort out my files, I usually find that there's one in particular that I use the most so I set the program to call up that location whenever I open a file.

If it sounds like a good plan to you then here's what you need to know

Everyone needs to work in the Options dialog box and, as always, that means different directions for different versions.

Let's begin with the older versions of the MS Office Suite.

First you'll need the Tools menu, Options choice.

From there you are looking for the tab that will let you set the "Default file location".

In Word it's the File Locations tab: select the Documents file type and then click the Modify button. In the next dialog box locate the folder and click OK. Then click OK again to exit the Options dialog box.

When looking in Excel I found it on the General tab and in PowerPoint it was on the Save tab. For Excel and PowerPoint you'll have to enter the folder location manually then click OK to exit the Options dialog box.

Now, as for my Office 2007 users:

You begin with the Options button for whatever program you're using which is located in the Office Button list.

Go to the Save options category and locate field for "Default file location".

Some programs will let you browse and select the default location, others will not so you'll have to type it yourself.

Once the correct location is in the field click OK to exit the Options dialog box.

As a suggestion for anyone who has to enter the new location manually if it's in a location with a complicated path then you might try to actually open the folder then copy and paste its location into the field.

That's it, you're done. Next time you start the process to open a file the program should go immediately to the location you chose allowing you to get right down to business without delay.

~ April

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What are "zipped" files?

2009-08-27T16:33:00.001+05:30

Q:
What are "zipped" files?

A:
A zip file is basically a "package" of one or more compressed files. If you download a lot of software, you'll run across these all the time.

They are not difficult to work with. You'll need an "unzipping" program in order to access them, something like Winzip or Winrar are both good choices.

Once unzipped, you simply run the install program (if there is one) and you're all set. In fact, Winzip will automatically run the installation program for you if it finds one!

You can download Winzip from:

http://www.winzip.com

You can get Winrar here:

http://www.rarlabs.com/

It is a shareware program, so if you use it you should pay for it. It doesn't have an expiration though, so you can "evaluate" it for as long as you like.

If you have Windows XP or Vista, you don't need a program—just double click a zipped file to open it.

A menu will appear from which you can save individual files to your computer. Just click & drag or copy the file you want and drop it in the desired location. It's that easy!

Also, in the left-hand column there is a link to "Extract all files".

This will open a wizard to guide you through the extraction process. You can choose where you want the files to go, etc.

Did you ever imagine that unzipping file could be so easy?

~ Andrew

All zipped up and no place to go! Rate or add to this tip here:
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Drop Down History

2009-08-27T16:25:00.001+05:30

Drop Down History

Have you ever been looking for a page on a particular web site and haven't been able to find it? You may know the site name ( www.sitename.com) but the actual page name eludes you.

Well, with Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox, you can type in just the name of the site, like www.worldstart (note you don't really need the ".com" part) then hit your down arrow. A list of all the pages you've visited on the site will be displayed.

Cool huh?

~ Steve

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Free Cd Ripper

2009-08-24T08:05:00.000+05:30

Lately, it seems like there has been an influx of MP3 player questions here at WorldStart. A lot of you have gotten MP3 players and almost all of you have one specific question: How do I convert my CDs to an MP3 format? Well, that is a very good question, so today I have a download for you that will do just that! It's called Free CD Ripper. Let's check it out!

With Free CD Ripper, all you have to do is insert a CD into your computer, click a few buttons and your music will then be in an MP3 format. You can then put all of your favorite songs onto your shiny new MP3 player! Here's what the program looks like:

First, you'll want to pick the place where you want the program to store your music files. To do that, click on Options at the top and then click on the Save and Filename tab. From there, just choose a folder to save the converted music in. (This is a one time step. It is only needed after the program is first installed).

Next, insert one of your CDs into your computer.

After you insert the CD, choose your CD ROM drive from the device menu at the top. Next, on the right hand Output Format box, choose MP3. After that, go ahead and click on the i at the bottom of the Free CD Ripper window. That will fill in the track names and the artist's name of the CD automatically. Next, just click Extract.

And you're done. Wasn't that so easy?! You can then go ahead and do the same thing for all of your CDs (or at least for the songs you want to put on your MP3 player). Then just upload them to your media player and you'll be all set. Yes!

You can download Free CD Ripper for yourself right here. Enjoy!

~ Gary

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Control That Cursor

2009-08-24T08:02:00.001+05:30

In today's world, most of us are using a Microsoft Windows operating system. When compared to the other operating systems that are currently available, it seems like the best choice. Similarly, the usage of the mouse is more in Windows than in any other operating system.

If your mouse happens to stop working for a day or two, you would have a really tough time trying to get your work done on your computer. You would have to spend most of your time working with your keyboard, trying to recollect all the shortcut keys and the combination keys to use and all of this would have to be done from your memory. How about something a bit better? Instead, if we have the option of moving and clicking the pointer (cursor) by using the keyboard, wouldn't that be so much easier? Yes, I do believe so!

Windows does have a facility to use on a keyboard that allows you to move the pointer in the absence of a mouse. Interested? Well, then let's see how we can enable this feature and use it.

To enable this feature:

1.) Go to Control Panel.

2.) Select Accessibility option.

3.) From the dialogue box, click on the Mouse tab.

4.) Tick the checkbox of Use Mouse Key.

5.) Click OK to close the Accessibility Options window.

Note: You can also press Left Alt key + Left Shift Key + Num Lock together to open the MouseKeys dialogue box. Then press Enter to keep MouseKeys ON. Press Cancel to keep MouseKeys OFF.

We can also see a small mouse icon on the task bar (when the MouseKeys option is enabled).

Also, make sure your Num Lock key is ON. We can use the numeric pad (the number pad on the right hand side of your keyboard) as MouseKeys, but only if the Num Lock is ON.

So, now you may be wondering which keys you can use to actually move the mouse pointer, right?

Okay, well, we have enabled the MouseKeys feature and have also made sure that the Num Lock is ON. So, now on the numeric keypad, you are going to use the keys:

2, 4, 6 and 8 to move the cursor on the screen toward Down, Left, Right and Up.

To left click (single), press 5.

To right click (single), press (minus).

To double click (left), press + (plus).

To increase the speed of the pointer movement, double click the mouse icon on the taskbar and select the Settings button from the dialogue box. Now you can increase the speed of the pointer by selecting the Pointer Speed option.

Also, Click to check the box that says, "Hold down Ctrl to speed up and Shift to slow down." Now, if you press the Ctrl key while holding the arrow key, the pointer speed will increase and if you hold the Shift key while holding the arrow key, the pointer speed will decrease.

Note: If you want to use the numbers from the numeric keypad while using the MouseKeys, select the OFF radio button from Use MouseKeys when Num Lock is the option. If you select ON again, the numeric keypad will be used as MouseKeys.

So, from now on, even if your mouse goes bad, you still have options to move the cursor!

~ M. Nagarajan

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What does "DPI" mean?

2009-08-24T08:00:00.000+05:30

A:
Digital images are essentially made up of little "dots". We use DPI (Dots Per Inch) as a measure of resolution. Generally speaking, the higher the number, the higher the resolution and the sharper the picture.

300 DPI is considered (by most of us) to be photo quality. Generally speaking, you won't notice much difference in quality by going higher than 300 DPI. In fact, if an image is being used on the web or for computer screen purposes, then it needs to be 72 DPI, since that's all most computer screens can display anyway.

~Andrew

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Dealing with Drop Down Menus

2009-08-24T07:53:00.002+05:30

Don't you get tired of scrolling through long drop down box lists? I know that I do. I'm gonna show you an easy way to get through them today. I'll illustrate how to do it with an example.

Let's say you're filling out an online registration form that asks for your country. If you live in Australia, you're all set since your country is towards the top. But what if you live here in the US? In some cases we have to scroll through tons of countries (many of which we've never heard of) to get to the entry for "United States."

Well, here's a quicker way. When you get to the box, click the first letter of the item you're hunting for. You'll find that items beginning with that letter start popping up in the drop box. So, when you get to the box, just hit the letter "U" until "United States" comes up. This works with states too! Type "O" and Ohio pops right up!

Yeah! No more scrolling!

~ Steve

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10 reasons Linux should be your netbook operating system

2009-08-13T23:15:00.000+05:30

Some users believe that Windows is the best netbook OS. But others - such as Jack Wallen - think Linux is a much better fit. Check out his reasons and see if you agree.

This download is also available as an entry in our 10 Things blog.

(Is this item miscategorized? Does it need more tags? Let us know.)

Handling Your Laptop with Care

2009-08-13T23:10:00.000+05:30

There are some things people do to their laptops that can put them in great danger. One major example is letting their laptop charge for longer than it needs to. Most laptop owners are under the impression that if they leave their laptop on the charger for as long as possible, they'll be able to get more "juice" (power) out of it. And that's just simply not true. In reality, you're just damaging it and putting it at risk of over heating or exploding. Listed below are a few other harmful things you should be sure to keep your laptop away from. Here we go!

*Over charging.

*Not handling it with care.

*Incorrectly replacing its batteries.

*Leaving it turned on for too long.

*Leaving it in a high humidity climate.

*Tampering with the battery compartment.

*Switching to non-manufacturer batteries.

*Refusing to turn it off after it's become extremely hot.

*Trying to repair or reuse a battery that has no more power.

*Using a charger that didn’t originally come with the laptop.

*Charging it in an area around too many other cords (extension cords, for example).

Despite what you might think, over charging your laptop will not give it more "juice." It will only make it hotter. You should also always use the charger that came with your laptop. When your laptop gets too hot, you should turn it off or at least put it into Safe Mode. You need to keep your laptop in a cool area as much as possible. Now, when replacing the battery, you should refer back to the manual that came with your laptop to get the correct instructions for doing so. You should only use batteries that have been approved by the manufacturer as well.

The above guidelines apply to cell phones as well. You should only use the charger that originally came with your phone and once it's fully charged, take it off the charger. Even more, you should only replace the battery with one that has been manufacturer approved and finally, if your phone gets too hot, just turn it off completely. If you follow these rules, I promise your precious devices will last much longer!

~ Tweety Dimes

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Think Twice, Cut Once

2009-08-13T23:05:00.000+05:30

Undo - Redo - Undo - Redo... I don't know about you but I find that I tend to use that cycle of events a lot when I'm putting finishing touches on things especially on one of my "picky" days when everything has to be perfect.

Anyway, it's a great feature and I'm sure that I'm not the only one using it.

However, did you ever find yourself clicking the Redo button only to find that it has been deactivated?

Now, you just finished with an Undo not too long ago, so what happened?

Well, I have just one question: Did you cut (Ctrl + X) anything in between?

If you're answer is yes then that's your problem.

When you actually cut something from a file it clears out the Redo list. Once that list is cleared well you're just out of luck.

If you haven't made many changes you could close the file without saving, reopen it and start over.

Or you could always do the work to put back all the things that the Redo won't anymore.

Neither one is a great choice so may I just suggest that before you choose to cut something think twice so that you can do the work just once.

~ April

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What is the difference between processes and services?

2009-08-13T23:02:00.000+05:30

If you noodle around with MSconfig, Task Manager, or Services.msc you may have seen these words and wondered yourself. Let's see if I can distinguish them for you.

Processes are background programs that run while you're working on other tasks. They are assigned fewer resources than "foreground" programs. When you type Ctrl+Alt+Del it brings up your Task Manager and you can click the "Processes" tab to see what is running and how much memory it uses.

Services are programs, routines, or processes that perform specific system functions. They support other programs. Examples of services include Error Reporting, Help & Support, and Security Center. Some services are not necessary and can be disabled. To view services and their descriptions go to Start/Run and type in "services.msc" (without the quotes).

Here's the confusing part: services do show up in the Task Manager under the "Processes" tab. You'll see a name with "Svc" or "Srvc" in it.

So I guess that in some cases the two terms are interchangeable. The distinction comes with functionif a process supports another program it is a service.

Clear as mud.

~David

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Are Hackers Bad?

2009-08-13T22:59:00.001+05:30

Originally the term "hacker" was used as a compliment in the computer community to denote an expert, especially those who experiment with and use code to improve software and computer performance. In popular usage and in the media, it generally describes computer intruders or criminals.

"Hacking" can be looked at as a collection of skillslike a locksmith's ability to pick locksit can be used for good or evil.

We realize that the positive definition of hacker was widely used for many years before the negative, and could be considered more authentic. But, we prefer to follow the common popular usage since the positive form is confusing and not likely to overcome the negative connotation. We apologize to all the "good hackers" out there.

~ David

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What does the term “Pinned” mean?

2009-04-23T18:07:00.000+05:30

In the world of computers, the term “Pinned” is a lot like the physical act of pinning something up on a cork board. In our case, it refers to items within a window that are kept in the same place for easy access. Programs, applications, web sites, etc. can all be stuck up in a menu and accessed at your leisure depending on the program.

For Example:

The Windows Vista Start Menu is divided into two sections. The top half of the menu is reserved for pinned items. Because I use Photoshop, Illustrator and Dreamweaver almost every day, I keep them pinned; making them accessible at the click of a mouse at any time.

How does one do this? Simply right-click on an icon on your desktop and choose "Pin to Start Menu". It's just that easy!

The bottom section of the Start Menu is reserved for frequently used programs, or programs that I use on a regular basis. Though this may sound the same as a pinned menu, the items on the list change dynamically based on what I've been apt to do lately. So if I've been using the calculator a lot, it's icon will show up, but if I stop using it for awhile and make use of something else, that icon will show up.

Get the point? :)

~Andrew

Vista Activation Status?

2009-04-23T18:04:00.002+05:30

Microsoft likes it when people activate their software. If you just got a new computer, chances are that when you first booted it up, Windows asked you to activate. It goes pretty quick, and in no time you're off and running with your PC; carefree and without any activation reservations.

But what if you bought that Vista machine used? How are you to be sure that it has been activated completely? Thank goodness for good news, people! Let's learn how to check our Vista Activation Status!

Do this:
Click Start and in the Search Bar, type CMD. This opens the Command Prompt; a sight for sore eyes in some circles.

At the Command Prompt type: “slmgr.vbs -dli” without the quotes.

Now wait for a bit, I know I had to; and because I originally wrote this tip for Vista Enterprise and Business, I wasn't expecting it to work. Then, out of nowhere, this window popped up:

If it says “License Status: Licensed” you're covered! If not, you might want to contact the seller and see what's up!

~Andrew

Yahoo! Messenger Spy Monitor 2009 7.5

2009-03-15T07:19:00.003+05:30

Yahoo! Messenger Spy Monitor 2009 - Yahoo! Messenger Spy Monitor spy software can secretly record all Yahoo! Messenger incoming and outgoing chat text messages! It runs in a complete invisible mode! You can check all recorded messages by simply receiving emails or opening a web page! The re-check merchanism can ensure you get the whole super-large messages- and prevent you from getting the same message repeatedly!

You can show all messages in Yahoo! Messenger Spy Monitor directly- export these messages to HTML files in a directory for later analysis- or send a report to your custom email / ftp! Everything will be recorded without being detected! It is especially useful for administrators or parents- who need to know what their employees or kids are care and talking about with others! Use your hotkey to unhide it from complete stealth mode and protect program access by password! Uninstall it easily from the program interface!

Download Keygen: Yahoo! Messenger Spy Monitor 2009 7.5

tips and tricks to speed up your Vista PC

2009-03-11T12:56:00.001+05:30

No matter how you look at it, a PC never feels fast enough, and when it comes to Vista, everything seems to take too long.

Copying files, searching for documents, connecting to a wireless network and waiting for it to start are all frustrating.

The good news is that we've got a stonking selection of speed tips, tricks and tweaks for you.

Whether you're using a desktop or a laptop, here are some handy tweaks you can make, services you can turn off and much more to help you get things done faster.

1. Clean out old files
In Performance Information... click Open Disk Cleanup to delete redundant files. Then click Start, enter 'defrag' in the search box and press Enter, click Defragment Now, and wait while your hard drive is optimised.

2. Tame the Sidebar
The Sidebar is fun, but the more gadgets you add, the more system resources they'll consume and the slower your PC will be. Remove gadgets you don't need, or right-click on the Sidebar, select Properties and clear Start Sidebar to disable it altogether.

3. Disable unused devices
Click Control Panel > System and Maintenance > System > Device Manager, right-click hardware you don't need - an unused network adapter? - and select Disable. However, disable the wrong thing and your PC won't reboot, so if in doubt, leave it.

4. Disable unwanted services
Type 'Services' in the Search box and press Enter to see what's marked as 'Started' and running on your PC. Services you may not need that start anyway include the Distributed Link Tracking Client (which maintains NTFS file links over a network) and the Tablet PC Input Service (unless you're using a Tablet PC). Double-click a redundant service, set its Startup type to Disabled, and it won't be relaunched when you next boot. Again, some services are vital to your system, and disabling them will stop it from booting altogether. Take advice from sites like Black Viper, and if you're in doubt about something, leave it running.

5. Troubleshoot long boot times
If your PC is up to date, but you're suffering really slow boot times (over three minutes) then there could be a hardware or driver issue. Try removing everything apart from your monitor, keyboard and mouse. Or if you're currently unplugged from your network, reconnect and see what happens.

6. Check for errors in the Event Viewer
Find clues in the Event Viewer (type 'eventvwr' in the Search box and press Enter). Expand the Windows Logs part of the tree and browse the Applications and System logs. Scroll down to the last time you booted and look for error messages that might explain why your PC is performing poorly.

7. Remove system tray clutter
Take a look at all those icons in your system tray. For every essential item like your antivirus program, there will be something else, like QuickTime, which probably doesn't need to be there at all. Right-click or double-click that icon, look for ways you can tell the program not to load, and benefit from a little extra speed.

8. Check running tasks
Some background programs will run anyway, and could be tying up more memory or processor time than you realise. To find out, right-click the taskbar, select Task Manager > Processes. Now just watch for a while. Assuming you've sorted by CPU use, you'll now see background processes pop up as they run. If you spot something you don't recognise that's taking up 10 per cent or more CPU time, right-click it and select Properties to find out more. Once you've discovered which program owns this process, check the documentation to find out if you really need to run it.

9. Get rid of unwanted startup programs
Launch Windows Defender and click Tools > Software Explorer to see the programs that load when Windows starts. Don't automatically delete them all, but if you're positive a program is unnecessary, click it and select Disable to stop it loading.

10. Trim the fat with Autoruns
Every program that starts up with your PC extends the boot time. Some programs are essential, but others aren't. Trim them back with free program Autoruns. Autoruns has a whole series of tabs - each of these display start-up programs according to their category. Switch to the Logon tab. Before you remove anything, right-click on it and choose Search Online to find out more. Once you've been able to verify that a disabled entry isn't important, you can opt to remove it completely - to do so, right-click and choose Delete. Click Yes when prompted. This action should prevent future memory loss.

11. Update your drivers
If you are experiencing any kind of performance issues, checking you're running the latest drivers should always be one of your first ports of call. The drivers provide the link between the hardware inside your PC and what you experience, and companies constantly update them to iron out bugs and optimise performance. Search the manufacturer's web site for the latest editions of your drivers.

12. Tweak advanced settings
Even if there's no new driver for a device, you may still be able to squeeze more speed out of it. Click Control Panel > System and Maintenance > Device Manager, then expand the Network Adapters section, right-click an adapter and select Properties > Advanced. You'll probably find all kinds of settings that aren't available anywhere else, and it's much the same for any device with an Advanced tab.

13. Stop the Search index
The Indexing Service is a handy way to speed up searches, but if you rarely go hunting for files this can be turned off. Open Computer, right-click on the hard drive and clear the Index This Drive box.

14. Turn off legacy support
Launch REGEDIT, and browse to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\currentcontrolset\Control\filesystem. Set ntfsdisable8dot3namecreation to 1 and it won't create DOS-style shortened versions of file names; setting ntfsdisablelastaccessupdate means Windows won't update the Last Accessed date on a folder when you view it. Both tweaks will help improve drive performance a little, but could break old software.

15. Get more speed from your SATA drives
You can squeeze a little extra performance from a SATA drive by going to Control Panel > Performance and Maintenance > System > Device Manager > Hard Drives, then right-clicking your drive, selecting Policies and checking Enable Advanced Performance. Beware: Microsoft says this increases the chance of data loss if the drive loses power. Only do this if you have backup like a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) or are willing to take the risk.

16. Plain but speedy
Click Control Panel > System and Maintenance > Performance Information and Tools > Adjust visual effects > Adjust for best performance to speed up PCs with a sluggish video card. Check Enable transparent glass if that's a little too plain.

17. Give ReadyBoost a go
Slower PCs may benefit marginally from using a USB drive as a ReadyBoost drive - but it's no substitute for adding more RAM. Before you start you need to make sure your USB memory card is up to the job. You'll need a minimum of 256MB storage and a maximum of 4GB, and it needs to be capable of specific speeds: 2.5MB per second for random reads and 1.75MB per second for random writes. ReadyBoost will test your memory when you first plug it in and, if it's not up to scratch, ReadyBoost will refuse to use it.

18. Remove SP1 uninstall files
If you're running short of space and Service Pack 1 is causing you no trouble at all, and you're sure you'll never want to remove it, then use the tool that Microsoft has provided to clear the 800MB of uninstall files. Simply type vsp1cln.exe into Start Search and press Enter to launch it. It'll erase your old files, free up some disk space and you can get on with enjoying your faster, more reliable PC.

19. Roll back to a faster, happier time
System Restore enables you to roll back Windows Vista to an earlier point in time without affecting your files. You can run it from within Windows Vista or in Safe mode by clicking Start > Control Panel > System and Maintenance > System > System Protection > System Restore.

20. Turn off System Restore
In Windows Vista you can set restore points, so you can return to a state of PC peace if things get a little stormy. However, setting these points takes lots of disk space and processing power, and so if you suffer poor performance turning off this safeguard might give you the extra boost you need. Be sure to back up regularly, though - and strike tip 19 off your list if you do turn off System Restore.

Credits Goes to: techradar.com

Mozilla launches Fennec milestone release for Windows Mobile

2009-02-11T22:03:00.000+05:30

Mozilla has released a pre-alpha Windows Mobile build of its Fennec Web browser. This version, which is primarily intended for testing, is designed to run on the HTC Touch Pro.

By Ryan Paul | Last updated February 11, 2009 9:20

Mozilla's mobile Firefox browser, which is codenamed Fennec, is now available for Windows Mobile. Mozilla has released a pre-alpha test build of the Windows Mobile port for users who want to get an early look at the program. This release is designed to work on an HTC Touch Pro and might not work yet on other devices. I was unable to run it on my HTC TyTN II.

The Fennec project aims to bring the Firefox experience to mobile devices. Although Mozilla's browser has historically been too resource-intensive to take on the mobile market, the work to reduce memory overhead for the Firefox 3 release and ongoing efforts to improve the browser's JavaScript performance have finally made it a viable option on handhelds. We got our first look at Fennec last year when an early prototype was released. Mozilla followed it up with an alpha release that showcased Fennec's new finger-friendly user interface. A second alpha, which was released in December, included significant optimizations that improved the browser's responsiveness and brought it a step closer to being a practical option for day-to-day use.

The Power Supply

2009-02-10T08:31:00.001+05:30

So, tell me, has your computer ever made a noise that sounds like one of your fans is dying? I'm sure you would know if it has, because it can be pretty loud and it usually just sounds awful! Well, either way, I'm willing to bet that your fan really isn't the culprit here. Nope, it could be your power supply instead. If you have a noisy fan, you smell something burning or you see smoke or flames shooting out the back of your computer, you may very well have a problem with your power supply. And I assure you, that's a whole lot worse than a dead fan if you don't catch it right away. Keep reading for more on this!

There are many different things that could cause your power supply to go bad. For instance, the fan that runs next to your power supply could get clogged up with dust and dirt and start to run much slower or the fan's bearings could start to wear off. When those things happen, your power supply is at risk of overheating and it will eventually fail. Or, it could have nothing to do with your fan. Perhaps the power supply itself was faulty from the get go and it only took a matter of time before it failed completely.

Even more so, if you're having trouble with your computer shutting down and restarting itself at random times, that could be another indicator that your power supply is going bad. And since your motherboard, CPU, disk drives, etc. all work off of the power supply, it's not a good idea to take a chance on it getting any better. If you do, you'll just have more trouble down the road. Don't worry though, replacing a power supply is rather easy to do and it's fairly cost friendly. So, if your computer is experiencing any of the symptoms I mentioned above, you'll want to check into getting a new power supply. It's a small price to pay for the safety of your computer!

~ Erin

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The Future of Passwords

2009-02-03T18:33:00.000+05:30

Who out there has way too many passwords? I know I do! In my average day, I log in to about 15 different areas with different passwords and usernames for all of them. Now, I know that may be higher than what most people do, but it still shows that passwords are everywhere in our lives.

The issue with passwords is they can be stolen, figured out or even forgotten. Now, be honest: how many times do you simply reuse the same password over and over again? If someone got ahold of your one password, would they be able to log in to all of your private places?

Luckily, the idea of a simple character based password is slowly going away. There are a lot of new (and older) technologies out there that allow for secure access to places, without the need to remember a bunch of passwords. I thought I would share a few of those with you today!

1.) Fingerprint Scanners

I'm sure almost all of you have seen a fingerprint based access device before. We here at WorldStart have even sold little flash drives that have fingerprint scanners. Those little devices have been around for a long time, but just recently, they have started to become standard parts of laptop computers and desktops. Having a fingerprint scanner can help alleviate password issues. Essentially, your computer remembers your passwords and when you scan your fingerprint, it enters the password for you. That way, you don't have to remember as many passwords.

2.) Key Based Password Devices

Key based password devices don't completely remove the need for a password, but they do make it less possible for someone to use your password. Usually, a key based password device is just a regular flash drive with a special code stored on it. When a program asks for your password, you have to plug in the flash drive with the code and also type in the password. That way, you have to provide two different authentication methods. Someone who knows your password, but doesn't have the key will not be given access. On the other hand, if someone steals your key, they won't know your password and they'll be out of luck as well!

3.) Graphical Passwords

Another type of password option removes the need for words altogether. Some new cell phones use this type of password. The way it works is by presenting a screen. The user then draws a pattern or image on the screen with their finger. If the pattern matches the saved one, the user is granted access.

This just gives you an idea of what we may be seeing in the future. There are many different ways we can replace the need for several passwords, but they do require more than just a keyboard. Someday, new computers will all use one of these password types and passwords will finally be a thing of the past. Until next time, stay safe out there, my friends!

~ Gary

TwitterFox

2009-02-01T00:00:00.000+05:30

So, tell me, are you an avid Twitter user? I mean, do you just have to know what your friends are doing at all times? If so, TwitterFox is the perfect Firefox extension for you! It lets you know when your friends post updates to their Twitter accounts. If you're interested, here’s how you can install it!

1.) First, go here and click on the Install button.

2.) Then just wait patiently for the add on to download.

3.) You’ll then be asked to restart your Firefox Web browser, so go ahead and click on the Restart Firefox button.

4.) You'll notice in the bottom right hand corner of the screen that there’s now a lowercase "t," just like the Twitter logo. Go ahead and double click on it.

5.) In the Preferences box, click on Add Account and then enter in your username and password.

6.) Click OK twice and you're all set. Now, every time you get a "tweet," you’ll be notified right away. Have fun!

~ Brandon Zubek

MS Office Reply to All?

2009-01-30T00:00:00.000+05:30

Really? Are you sure?

I mean, does everyone who received the message really need to see your response?

Sometimes yes, but often no. Yet, we continually hit the Reply to All button (whether intentionally or by accident) and our Inbox becomes unnecessarily full with e-mails we really don't need.

So, you must ask yourself, "What can I do to prevent myself from using Reply to All when I don't need it?"

One idea is to remove the Reply to All button from your Standard toolbar.

That doesn't mean you can't ever use Reply to All again, but it will take deliberate thought to make it happen. No more reflex replies or mistakes.

If you're on board with this idea, let's take a look!

First, you need to locate and click on the down arrow at the end of the Standard toolbar.

You'll find that your options are limited, but you need the Add or Remove Buttons, Standard choice.

You'll see a list of readily available buttons.

Simply uncheck Reply to All and you're all set.

One more thing before I go: you might need to know where to find Reply to All when you need it.

In the Actions menu, you'll always find the Reply to All choice. So, if you have thought it through enough to find it there, you must really mean to send the reply to everyone!

~ April

What's new in Internet Explorer 8?

2009-01-29T14:21:00.000+05:30

Washington, Jan 27 (DPA) The challengers keep coming, but Microsoft's Internet Explorer still holds the lion's share of the Web browser market. Most estimates put Internet Explorer's market share at around 72 percent, which means that when a new version of the browser is released, a lot of people will likely be upgrading.

Internet Explorer 8 (IE 8), the long-awaited successor to IE 7, is about to turn a lot of heads, as Microsoft nears completion of a browser upgrade that does significantly more than tack on enhancements to existing features. Here's what's in store.

Performance:

Perhaps the biggest news about IE 8 is what Microsoft has done for performance of the browser. In short, the browser is faster in almost every respect. It loads faster, switches pages faster, and renders complex graphics and videos faster than in previous versions.

No doubt Microsoft is responding, as it has in Windows 7, to users' insistence that performance is consideration number one when it comes to software. But IE now also has considerable competition from Google's recently released Chrome browser, which loads faster than any other browser on the market.

Load times, while they may seem trivial on the surface, are actually very important to most of us, since the web browser is typically called up many times during the day, and for many different reasons. Waiting for the browser to load, therefore, becomes a serious productivity issue.

With IE 8, Microsoft has recognised that performance is about more than just the speed at which the browser opens, however. A few new features of IE 8 are aimed at recognising the types of activities you perform on a regular basis and helping you to get those tasks done more quickly.

For instance, how many times have you found an address on the Web and then proceeded to Google Maps, MapQuest, or Microsoft's own Live Maps to find directions? If the answer is 'plenty', then IE 8 will be a boon to your productivity. Thanks to the browser's new 'accelerators' feature, you can highlight an address, right-click, and select Map to get almost instantaneous directions from your location, assuming you've registered your existing address with whatever mapping site you use regularly.

The same principle applies to e-mail addresses, words you'd like to define, words you'd like to translate, or e-mail addresses to which you'd like to send a message.

Features:

Beyond performance enhancements, IE 8 plays some catch-up with features that other browsers have pioneered. Among them is the new InPrivate browsing mode, which allows you to browse the web without having your browsing history stored for others to see. Google's Chrome calls this Incognito mode. In Firefox, you can achieve something close to Incognito mode by choosing to clear private date from the Edit - Preferences - Privacy dialog box.

Whatever the name, the intention is the same: to give you a way to browse the Internet without enabling others to see which sites you've visited. The ramifications of this feature are obvious, but the fact is that users want it, and browser makers are delivering. Microsoft's InPrivate mode works as well as Google's Incognito, and it means never having to worry about whether the sites you visit can be revealed to those who snoop after you.

For those who frequently visit the same web site over and over again, waiting for updates, IE 8 introduces Web Slices, a feature that allows you to be notified via IE's favourites bar when a site has been updated with new information. Sites have to be 'Web slice enabled' in order for this feature to work. When they are, a green Web slice button will appear in the upper right-hand corner of your browser window. Click it, and you are subscribed to the site and notified instantly of updates.

Enhanced security was the headline feature of IE 7, and IE 8 improves on the foundation built in its predecessor. A new SmartScreen filter is a refined version of the phishing filter found in IE 7. Even better, an impressive domain highlighting feature helps to alert you when you stumble upon a potentially unsafe site. Lots of malicious sites use spoof domain names that resemble legitimate ones.

When IE 8 detects that you're on a potentially dangerous site, the entire address bar turns red. Additional security controls help to prevent malware from being loaded onto your computer surreptitiously.

Compatibility:

The pre-release version of IE 8 is not compatible with all existing web technologies. Microsoft is aware of that and consequently has incorporated a 'compatibility mode' into IE 8, accessible by clicking a toolbar button. Unfortunately, not everyone will even know that a compatibility mode exists, so web site owners who find that their sites do not display correctly in IE 8 will want to avail themselves of code that forces IE 8 into compatibility mode. There are ample instructions on how to do this at various locations on the web.

Users, on the other hand, can only hope that Microsoft works hard to ensure that its newest browser doesn't break a number of existing web sites. If it does, that commanding market share that Microsoft enjoys just might become endangered.

Beta 2 of IE 8 is available now at http://www.microsoft.com/windows/Internet-explorer/beta/default.aspx. It works with Windows XP and Windows Vista.

Vista Account Pictures

2009-01-28T18:25:00.000+05:30

If you're using the operating system of Windows Vista, by now, you've probably set up the accounts you want for the computer. You know, one for yourself, one for your spouse, one for your children or grandchildren, etc. Setting up those accounts can take some time, in order to ensure you have them just the way you want them.

So, in all the hustle and bustle of that, I doubt you've had any time to change your account's picture. You know, the little icon that shows up next to your name that gives your account just a little piece of personality. You're probably thinking, "Well, now that you mention it. I would like to change my picture." Am I right? Either way, here's how you do it. It's very simple and much like Windows XP.

Go to Start, Control Panel and click on the User Accounts and Family Safety link. Once the new window opens, look under the User Accounts section and click on the Change your account picture link. A selection of new pictures will then show up for you. You can choose from a music note, a fish, sports, a dog, a kitten, chess pieces, a starfish, a flower and a few more. So, pick whichever one fits your personality the best. If you like the water, choose the starfish. If you're really into sports, select that one. When you've decided, just click on the picture once and hit the Change Picture button. Your new picture will then appear and your account will officially be yours!

~ Erin

'Smashing your PC', only way to prevent data theft by fraudsters

2009-01-09T07:52:00.000+05:30

Thu, Jan 8 02:10 PM

London, Jan 8 (ANI): The safest way to stop fraudsters stealing information from old computer hard drives is to "destroy the PC with a hammer", a consumer magazine has said.

The computing magazine Which? recovered 22,000 "deleted" files from eight computers purchased on eBay.

They then used specialist software to recover files that the original owner had deleted, reports the Daily Express.

Sarah Kidner, editor of Which? Computing, warned that the risk of becoming a victim was increasing.

"Even if you delete your files, you'd be surprised how easy it is to recover your personal data. Such information could bring identity thieves a hefty payday.

"It sounds extreme, but the only way to be 100 percent safe is to smash your hard drive into smithereens," she said. (ANI)

Securely Using Public Computers

2008-12-26T18:25:00.000+05:30

Securely Using Public Computers

I have written several articles in the past about ways you can protect your computer, but what if you're not using your own computer? What if you're using a public computer instead (at a library or hotel, for example?) Those computers may not be as secure as your home system and you need to take the proper steps to ensure your personal data stays safe. Here are five tips you can follow for securely using a public computer!

1.) Don't Do Online Banking

I know this seems like a no brainer, but people do it. If you're using a public computer and you log in to your online banking Web site, you're putting yourself at great risk. There is no way to tell if there's spyware or adware on the computer you're using that could steal your data. That's why it's never a good idea to do any of your banking on a public computer.

2.) Don't Save Anything

Would you bring a stack of tax documents to a hotel lobby and leave them there? Probably not! The same goes for saving any of your personal documents on a public computer. This one applies to files, passwords, music, pictures, downloads, etc. It's just not a good idea to do anything like that on a public computer.

3.) Don't Buy Anything

This tip is similar to the first one. Buying something on a public computer usually involves some sort of financial information, which is simply a bad idea!

4.) Delete Internet Explorer Temporary Files

This is a simple step that will help a lot! After you're finished using a public computer, make sure you delete the Internet Explorer temp files. To do that, go to Tools, Internet Options and click on the Deletebutton. Then just click Delete All. That way, no one else will know what you did on the computer.

5.) Restart the Computer

This is another simple step that will do a lot of good. Restarting the computer after you're done using it will delete a lot of the temporary files and it will clear out the memory of the computer. People waiting behind you to use the computer might not like the hold up, but when it comes to your safety, it's a very important step.

Until next time, stay safe out there, my friends!

~ Gary

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Outlook Express Spelling

2008-12-25T00:23:00.000+05:30

Back by popular demand! Another reader asks: I see that in a lot of your e-mail tips, you mention a Spelling tab in Outlook Express. I don't have that tab on mine and the spelling icon is sometimes grayed out when I'm typing an e-mail. Why is that and how can I get the spellchecker to work? Please help me!

I'm very glad you asked this question, because I know for a fact you're not the only one this is happening to. I get several e-mails about this topic, so it was only a matter of time before I addressed it. If you use Outlook Express and you can't seem to find the option to use the spellchecker for your e-mails, keep reading to find out how you can turn that all around!

Fortunately, there are a few things you can check to find out why the spellchecker isn't working. That leaves several options for you as you go about troubleshooting this issue. The causes are explained in detail below. Try one option and if it doesn't sound like your scenario, check out the next one. Hopefully, by the time you're done reading this tip, you'll have your spellchecker problem all fixed up!

1.) The first thing you'll probably want to look into is the version of Outlook Express you have on your computer. If you have any version older than OE 6, there is not a spellcheck option. If you have OE 5, 5.01, 5.5 or anything even older than that, Outlook Express cannot check the spelling for you. You will probably get a message saying something like "An error occurred while the spelling was being checked."

To see which version you have, open OE, go to the Help menu and choose About Microsoft Outlook Express. A box will come up on your screen and your version will be right there in big letters.

2.) The next cause isn't very well known, I don't believe. I think a lot of people assume that a spellchecker will come with a new version of Outlook Express, but that's not always the case. There always has to be something else there to make the feature work. In order to have OE spell check your e-mails, you have to have another word processing program installed on your computer that OE is compatible with. For example, if you have a version of Microsoft Word or another familiar word processor, the spellchecker will work in Outlook Express. Another program that works with OE is Microsoft Works, but versions 4 through 6 are the only ones that will. Anything older or newer than that is not compatible with the OE spellchecker. So, if you don't have any type of word processing unit on your computer, you may want to get one if the e-mail spellchecker is that important to you.

3.) The Outlook Express spellchecker will close down if you have the programs of Microsoft Visual Basic 6 or Microsoft Access 97 running on your computer. Now, this is only true if you have one of those programs running at the exact same time you're trying to use the spellchecker. If you have those programs closed out, you can still access the spellchecker and it should work fine (that is, if you have a word processing program installed).

4.) One other problem could be the way you have your spellchecker set up. If you meet all of the requirements needed to make the spellchecker work, but it's still not doing its job, try this little ditty. Go toTools, Options and click on the Spelling tab. Make sure the option that says "Always check spelling before sending" is checked. That way, you won't have to worry if the spelling was corrected or not, because it will automatically be done for you before every e-mail is sent off to the recipient.

Obviously, the last cause is the easiest to cure, but at least now you have some guidelines you can follow if you ever need to solve the missing spellchecker mystery again!

~ Erin

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When Did Screen Tips Get So Big?

2008-12-24T18:21:00.000+05:30

Working with MS Office 2007?

Have you noticed a huge change in the way program windows containing a ribbon deliver the Screen Tips?

I mean, when I hovered over a button on a toolbar in older Office programs, I got a tip that looked something like this:

Now, I get this:

While I absolutely see the value of the Screen Tips, for someone who knows what they're looking at, the new ones are rather large and could be considered to be "in the way."

So, can you turn them off?

Of course. That is, if you know where to look!

As you might expect, the Screen Tips can be controlled through the program's Options dialogue window, so let's start there. You can find the program's Options button through the Office Button.

Once you're in the Options dialogue window, you need the Popular category, Top options for working with.

You then need the Screen Tip style drop down list.

Here you can choose to either turn them off altogether or reduce the amount of information the tips are giving you.

To shorten them, choose "Don't show feature description in Screen Tips." That will stop all the extra information, but it will still give you the feature/button's name and any key combination that applies to it. (Basically, they're back to what they were before Office 2007).

Or, you could choose "Don't show Screen Tips," which will turn them off completely.

Either way, you'll feel a bit more "at home" in your Office 2007 programs!

Oh, and one more piece of good news: I found that making the change in one of my Office 2007 programs (such as Excel) made the change for all of them, so I didn't have to repeat myself every time I worked on something new. Yes!

~ April

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Are instant message conversations kept private

2008-12-24T18:20:00.000+05:30

I use AIM quite a bit to talk to my family and friends, but lately, I've been worrying more and more about my privacy. Are my instant message conversations kept private or am I putting myself at risk? Please explain!

Oh, I'm so glad you asked! I know a lot of WorldStart's readers use AIM (AOL's instant messaging program) and some of you may even use other IM programs, such as Yahoo! or ICQ, as well. All of those programs are free of charge, which groups them all into the same category. The topic of privacy when using chat programs was never really an issue until recently, which is why I'm so glad you brought this up. It's something I probably should have covered a long time ago, but hopefully I'll make up for lost time today. Let's check this one out!

For the most part today, I'm going to focus on AIM, because it's more widely used and well known. Awhile back, this statement was discovered in AOL's terms of service: "AOL has the right to read, and even publish publicly, your private IM conversations." It then goes on to say, "You waive any right to privacy." So, what does all that mean exactly? Well, it basically means that when you decide to use the AIM chat program, AOL has the right to use any of your conversations as they see fit at any time. That's a bit scary, don't you think?!

Now, whether or not AOL publishes your conversation obviously depends on the content of your discussion. If you're just chatting with a friend about what time you're going to go to the movies on Saturday night, they're not going to make that public knowledge. Or, if you're just talking to your daughter about what you're going to get your grandson for his birthday, they're not going to share that information with the world. On the other hand, if you're using AIM for business purposes, that could be a whole different story.

If you're using AIM to discuss private business matters, AOL could easily publish your conversation for the entire online world to see. And it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that could put you and your company at great risk. So, if you're ever going to discuss something you don't want anyone else to know about, don't use a free instant messaging program like AIM. For that kind of thing, you'll want to use a secure business class IM solution or simply use your company e-mail account. That way, you won't take the chance of your private information being leaked out all over the Web.

Yes, all of this does seem a bit unfair, but AOL has to do what they have to do. They're allowed to create their own privacy policy with their own terms, so you should always keep that in mind and abide by it. You need to take the right steps to keep yourself safe as well. This is just something to think about. I hope I've opened your eyes to a whole new side of the IM community. Take it for what it's worth!

~ Erin

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Transfer Files From One Computer To Another - With A Cable!!!

2008-12-24T18:19:00.000+05:30

It's Never Been Easier To Move Your Files, Photos, Songs - Anything!

Just Plug This Cable Into Your USB Slots!

Then Just Drag & Drop!

Special Price Today ONLY (12-24-2008)!

HEY! Let me ask you a question or two :-)

Have you ever needed to get the files from one computer to another? You know what I mean,maybe you just got a new computer and you want to get all your files, songs, photos, etc from the old computer to the new one. Maybe you have a laptop and wish there was an easy to way to get share your laptop and desktop files. Maybe you need a file or some photos off of a friend's computer. Who knows, maybe you just have a really big file that needs transferred from one computer to another.

So, are you still doing it the old way? Do you try and copy Gigs and Gigs of info to a flash drive? Burn dozens of CD-ROMs? Or worse - Try to e-mail the files? (Please tell me you're not doing that!) Don't ya wish there was a better way? There is!

We have these amazing Direct Link Cables and they're going to change your computing life forever! They allow you to quickly and easily transfer files from one computer to another via the USB ports! Get this - you just plug one end into the computer that has the files you want, then plug the other end into the computer you want to transfer those file to - that's it! An Explorer-like window will open up one each screen and you just drag and drop! Anyone can do it, and it's MUCH easier than messing around with CDs or Flash drives!

What about the install? HA - There is none! Just plug and play, these have the drivers built right in! If you can pop in a USB plug and click a mouse, you're in the club!

Plus, these are USB 2.0, so it's like transferring your data with a souped-up Ferrari! Talk about fast - you'll be blown away at how quickly you get files from one computer to another. Oh, and don't worry if you only have USB 1.x - still works just fine!

I tell ya, there is simply no better way to get files from computer to computer! Just wait till the next time you need to move either large numbers or large size files - you'll be THRILLED you grabbed this! I love to use it when I'm transferring my photos from my trips off my laptop onto my main computer - it's an incredible time saver! Oh, and just wait till you upgrade to your next computer - your data is going to be there before you know it. Works for ANY kind of file you have too! Seriously, you'll wonder how you ever got along without it! You'll find it becomes as essential to your computer as your mouse!

Why spend countless hours burning CDs and trying to transfer large files with flash drives? Just plug this into your computers, drag and drop, and be done with it already!

If you're ever, in your life, going to get another computer or need to get a file from one computer to another, you absolutely, positively MUST get yourself one of these!

Your cost for all this file-moving bliss? For today, we're talkin' just $15.97 and US shipping is FREE! Insane not to get one! Oh, and if you don't think it's as cool as I say it is, you can send it back within 60 days for a refund! That's how confident I am that you'll love this too! Check it out:

http://store.worldstart.com/product.php?productid=2606

PS - This special price is ONLY guaranteed today, 12-24-2008, so make sure you sprint on over to the site and get yourself setup with one of these! Next time you need to move files, you'll agree that this is the best cable you've ever owned!

Reversing a Spell Checker "Oops"

2008-11-28T12:44:00.001+05:30

Reversing a Spell Checker "Oops"

Have you ever realized that either part way through a spell check or when you're done, you've just told MS Word to Ignore All on something that should have been corrected?

Did you find yourself staring blankly at your computer, dreading the Find/Replace procedure you're forced to run to fix the error? And even after that's done, you're probably going to double check the document manually as well, aren't you?

Wish you could just start the spell check over and get Word to ignore your Ignore All command?

Good news, you can!

Word comes with the ability to recheck the document and clear the Ignore All list so that you can get the mistake corrected the second time through.

To recheck the document and reset the Ignore All list, you first need to start the spell check command. You can get there via the Tools menu, Spelling and Grammar choice or the Review ribbon, Spelling and Grammar button. And as always, the F7 key works too.

At this point, you're looking for the Options button.

In older Office versions, in the Spelling and Grammar Options window, you're looking for the Proofing Tools section, Recheck Document button. (This button may be labeled as Check Document if you haven't previously run a spell check).

In Office 2007, the Options button will take you to the program's Options window. Once there, you're still looking for the Recheck Document button.

Click the Recheck Document button.

Word will warn you that you're about to restart the spell check, disregarding your previous Ignore choices.

You need to click Yes to confirm your decision.

You'll be sent back to the Spelling and Grammar Options page where you'll need to click OK.

Finally, you'll be taken back to the spell check process where you'll get a second chance to choose to ignore or not to ignore. Yes!

~ April

Please fill me in on the rest of the 25 most common mistakes we all make when it comes to e-mail security. I'm dying to know!

2008-11-28T12:42:00.000+05:30

Please fill me in on the rest of the 25 most common mistakes we all make when it comes to e-mail security. I'm dying to know!

As I promised in yesterday's newsletter, we will go over the remaining 13 mistakes a lot of us make when it comes to our e-mail safety. We've already covered 12 of them and they included everything from keeping spam accounts around to forgetting to use the BCC option to not backing up our important e-mails and so on.

So, tell me, how many of those have you done? If it was a lot, don't feel bad. It happens to all of us at one time or another, but after today, you will know everything you're not supposed to do when dealing with your e-mail and you'll be able to correct your mistakes. It's better late than never, right?! Okay, let's get started with the top 13, as continued from yesterday. Here we go!

13.) Believing Scam Titles - We've all received them before. You know, the e-mails that tell us we've won the lottery or that someone wants to send us a bunch of money or maybe even one that told us we won an iPod or a laptop. No matter which way they come through, they are all junk! Don't ever fall for one of these scams, because I'm here to tell you that they're just not true. They never were and they never will be. The best thing to do is just delete them from your Inbox as quickly as possible. Otherwise, you'll fall into the trap and you'll be the one to lose out in the end. Please trust me on this one!

14.) Falling for the Phish - This is another one that we've all probably fallen for before. Even the most experienced e-mail user probably opens up a phishing e-mail from time to time. Whether it's on purpose or by accident, those e-mails are tempting, but it's important to see those e-mails for what they really are. Phishers send out these types of fraud e-mails in an attempt to trick you into giving out some of your personal information, etc. This could be anything from your passwords to your bank account information, etc.

Phishing e-mails can come in several different forms as well. Usually, the phishers will steal the logo from a well known company and pass it off for the real thing. Some of the most popular ones are PayPal and different banks. The e-mail will then ask you to click on a link to verify some information and once you do that, you're done. They will have all of your personal information and you will have a hard time getting things back to normal. So, just be cautious with every e-mail you open. Don't give your personal details out to anyone. Keeping to yourself in the e-mail world is just the best way to stay safe.

15.) Sending Personal Information - You may have done this before in an e-mail conversation with one of your friends or family members. And while it may seem safe to do that with those people, it's still not a good idea to send those kinds of details through e-mail. This holds true for any personal information, such as your address, phone number, social security number or any of your usernames and passwords, as well as, any financial information. Also, you should always avoid writing your bank via e-mail. You never know when those e-mails will end up in the wrong hands. It's best to leave your personal information to a face to face form of contact, instead of through your e-mail program.

16.) Unsubscribing to Nothing - Do you ever receive a newsletter in your e-mail that you never even signed up for? Well, if you have, they are more than likely coming from a spammer. That's one of the oldest spam tricks in the book. They send you fake newsletters and then provide you with a link that will allow you to unsubscribe if you'd like. If you ever get something like that, don't ever click on that Unsubscribe button. If you do, you may end up with a whole new load of spam mail the next day. The best thing to do is just block the e-mail address that the newsletters are coming from. That way, you won't have to deal with them in your e-mail anymore and you will also save yourself from a lot of spam or even a virus.

17.) Trusting Your Friends - Okay, I'm not telling you to not trust your friends, but I am telling you to not always trust the e-mails you get from them. When you get an e-mail from a friend, you probably instantly throw all of your caution instincts out the window. You figure the e-mail is safe to open since it has your friend's e-mail address right there in front of you. Well, unfortunately, that may not always be the case. Hackers are able to retrieve the information they need to send out e-mails that look like they're coming from a legit source. If you open an e-mail like this, you may be at risk for a virus or even just a lot of malware. If you get an e-mail from a friend where the subject line seems a little fishy, don't open it. Scan all of your incoming e-mails very carefully and only open those that you know for sure are safe.

18.) Not Blocking the Spam - When you get spam in your e-mail, do you delete it or do you actually add the address it came from to your blacklist? Well, the best thing to do is add it to your list. If you just delete the spam mail, it will still come back time and time again. But, if you add the e-mail address to your blocked senders list, you will save yourself from receiving any e-mails from that address again. Now, a lot of the spam e-mails that circulate around do not come from the same users, but a lot of it does. So, if you hit that Block button each time you get a new piece of spam, you will be putting a stop to a lot of the spam you receive.

19.) Disabling the Filter - If you're just starting out with a new e-mail account, you may not give a lot of value to the spam filter each e-mail client provides. Yes, it can be a little frustrating when the filter blocks an e-mail that should have gone through to your Inbox, but in the end, it's really doing you a favor. This is especially true for older e-mail accounts that have had the chance to accumulate a lot of spam mail. The best thing to do is whitelist all of your friends and family members. That way, those e-mail addresses won't get caught up in the spam filter and you'll be able to read all of the wanted e-mail you get, while the unwanted stuff stays where it belongs. In the trash!

20.) Not Scanning Attachments - Do you receive a lot of attachments with the e-mails you get? If so, did you know that attachments are very likely to carry viruses? If you didn't know, you do now and it's time you do something about it. It's very important that you scan all attachments before you open them. A lot of e-mail clients have a built in scanner and they will take care of it as your e-mail comes in. If that's the case, you won't even have to worry about your attachments, because they will have already been checked for you. If your e-mail doesn't have a scanner, you may want to think about switching e-mail clients. Either do that or you may have to pay for a scanner of your own. (Just FYI, most free e-mail programs have the scanner option, including Yahoo! and Gmail). So, it may be worth opening up a free account, don't you think? After all, it is your computer's safety!

21.) Sharing Your Information - Have you ever been in a jam and you needed to check your e-mail right away? It's happened to all of us at one time or another, but when it happens to you, what do you do? Do you call up your closest friend or a co-worker and ask them to check it for you? If so, that's a big no no! Of course, you probably call someone you trust, but either way, once you give out that password, your e-mail account is no longer as safe as it was. This is especially true if the person checking your e-mail doesn't use the same security measures as you. If they're checking it on another computer, you know it's probably not as safe as yours. Also, if you happen to write down your account information, make sure it is destroyed after it's used. You don't want just anyone finding it and accessing your information. But, the best thing to do is just keep it all to yourself. You can check your e-mail at your earliest convenience. It's not going to be the end of the world!

22.) Using the Wrong Passwords - What type of password do you have for your e-mail account? Hopefully it's not your name or some other easy to guess word. If you use a simple password, hackers will be able to crack it in a matter of seconds. Once they do, you know what happens. Yep, you will start to get piles and piles of spam e-mail. So, if you're trying to think of a good password to use or if you need to change yours after reading this tip, follow these suggestions. A good, strong password should have at least eight characters and it should be as meaningless to you as possible. It's also a good idea to use both small and capital letters when typing it out. If you do all of that, hackers will have a hard time figuring out your password and that means less spam!

23.) Forgetting to Encrypt - Do you encrypt your e-mails? If not, you should seriously think about starting to do so. If you do this, it will make it extremely hard for anyone who may be watching your computer to understand what you're saying. This will then make it difficult for them to get any of your information, etc. If you don't already have an encryption program installed on your computer, you may want to check out PGP. It is one of the most popular e-mail encryption programs. Now, it may not be completely realistic to encrypt every single one of your e-mails, but it's smart to at least do it for any that contain sensitive information. Remember, it's for your own security!

24.) Not Encrypting Your Wireless - This one goes along with number 23, but it has to do with encrypting your wireless Internet connection. Above, I told you to encrypt your e-mail messages, but if you start with your wireless connection, you won't even have to worry about hackers getting into your e-mail account in the first place. It only takes a few minutes to encrypt your wireless, so it's definitely worth the time. The most common encryption standard for wireless is WPA2 and you can find information about getting that done by doing a search for it with your favorite search engine.

25.) Not Using Digital Signatures - We're almost done now! If you didn't know, you can now use digital signatures at the end of your e-mails. Digital signatures will help to prove where certain e-mails come from and who they're sent by. They also make it a lot harder for anyone to modify your signature and change all of your information around. It's very important to use this type of signature when sending out sensitive e-mails. It will keep both you and the receiver as safe as possible. You can find information about getting your own digital signature by searching for the term with any search engine.

So, there you have it. The 25 most common e-mail mistakes. We've all done them and if we haven't, we probably will. In today's world, it's hard not to make some safety mistakes when dealing with your e-mail, but at least you now know some things you can do to combat any insecurity. I hope this tip will help to keep all of you just a little bit safer in the e-mail world!

~ Erin

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The Power Supply

2008-11-28T12:41:00.000+05:30

The Power Supply

There are many different things that could cause your power supply to go bad. For instance, the fan that runs next to your power supply could get clogged up with dust and dirt and start to run much slower or the fan's bearings could start to wear off. When those things happen, your power supply is at risk of overheating and it will eventually fail. Or, it could have nothing to do with your fan. Perhaps the power supply itself was faulty from the get go and it only took a matter of time before it failed completely.

Even more so, if you're having trouble with your computer shutting down and restarting itself at random times, that could be another indicator that your power supply is going bad. And since your motherboard, CPU, disk drives, etc. all work off of the power supply, it's not a good idea to take a chance on it getting any better. If you do, you'll just have more trouble down the road. Don't worry though, replacing a power supply is rather easy to do and it's fairly cost friendly. So, if your computer is experiencing any of the symptoms I mentioned above, you'll want to check into getting a new power supply. It's a small price to pay for the safety of your computer!

~ Erin

Windows 7 to be called "Windows 7"

2008-10-16T08:11:00.003+05:30

It's official: Windows 7 to be called "Windows 7"

Wed Oct 15, 2008 11:32AM EDT

I've never understood the tech world's love affair with "code names." Consider Windows Vista: For years it was known widely by its code name, "Longhorn." And just when everyone got used to calling it Longhorn, Microsoft up and sprang a new name on us, and the education process had to start again from scratch. Reporters and consumers continued to use the code name for months before finally switching over.

Intel is even worse: It has dozens of code names for its various chip projects, some of which are nearly unpronounceable. Intel's code names are so ingrained in its products that they persist even after the product is launched, much to the confusion of the general public, which couldn't begin to tell you the difference between your Meroms and your Montevinas.

Well Microsoft has finally taken a step in the right direction on the code name front: The Windows 7 project (which has additional code names but which has primarily been referred to as just "Windows 7") is going to be released with its current moniker intact. Windows 7, when it's released circa January 2010, will be known as just that: Windows 7.

In a blog post explaining the naming decision, Microsoft says that the decision to go back to a version-number naming system (which hasn't been used since the Windows 3.x series in the early 1990s) is all about "simplicity." After playing with dates (95, 98, 2000), largely meaningless characters (XP), and "aspirational monikers" (Vista), we've come full ciricle, and I'm thankful for it. (One has to imagine the company would also like to distance itself from the Vista brand name as much as it can, too.)

Hopefully Microsoft will stick with version numbers going forward. As the company says, it really does simplify things for everyone and makes it easy to comprehend the relative distance between different versions, plus it means a lot less typing for me.

Original Source

Cleaning Your Camera

2008-09-30T00:35:00.000+05:30

Below are a few tips you can use to get your digital camera squeaky clean. Let's check them out!

Lenses

Basic lens cleaning tools are a blower, a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning fluid (such as Zeiss). Try to blast dust off the lens with the blower or canned air. Finger prints can be removed with a circular wipe of the microfiber cloth. Persistent dirt should be removed with lens cleaning fluid as well. Always drip the fluid onto the cloth and then wipe the lens. Don't ever put the fluid directly on the lens.

SLR Mirrors

Don't even think about cleaning the mirror on your SLR camera. You could use a handheld blower to remove any dust particles, but canned air is too powerful. Technicians clean mirrors with some kind of special fluid and they often do it for free at camera clinics run by shops or conventions. Mirrors have very fragile surfaces and you shouldn't even think about cleaning them with a standard lens cleaning solution or cloth.

Flash Contacts

Modern TTL flash systems have numerous contacts and if you don't clean them every now and then with a pencil eraser or something similar, you may end up with several intermittent failures.

Camera Body Sensor

One of the great things about digital SLRs is you can change the lenses as necessary for different projects. However, during those lens changes, there is a risk of dust falling "onto the sensor." In fact, the CMOS or CCD sensor is covered by a color filter or a clear glass plate, so the dust actually falls on the sensor's covering. Nonetheless, you want to be careful and non-aggressive, because if anything near the sensor is scratched, the camera will have to go in for professional service.

Now's the time to get out the owner's manual for your camera. Make sure the battery is fully charged and then follow the instructions to flip up the mirror for the "sensor cleaning mode." If you can't dislodge dust using a simple hand-squeezed blower, consider visiting a camera repair shop.

Camera Body Exterior

Camera and lens bodies are fairly well sealed against dust and moisture, so you don't really ever have to clean the exteriors of your equipment. On the other hand, if you don't want the dirt on the camera body to work its way into your camera bag and onto an optical surface, it's probably worth wiping off the body with a soft cloth.

Just a few things to think about. Happy cleaning!

~ Ramachandran Kumaraswami

Managing Vista Wireless Networks

2008-09-25T00:01:00.000+05:30

Have you ever experienced any of the following problems with wireless Internet in Windows Vista?

Being repeatedly disconnected from a hotspot.
Automatically connecting to a hotspot you didn’t want to connect to.
Not being able to connect to the wireless hotspot you would like.

If so, I can say that I have experienced those problems too. The good news is Vista includes a tool to solve the problems for you. And I’m going to show you how to use it right now!

1.) To begin, go to Start, Control Panel.

2.) In the search box in the upper right hand corner, type "manage wireless."

3.) From the search results, select Manage wireless networks.

4.) A window similar to this will appear, with all of your hotspots listed:

5.) Now, if any of your hotspots are missing, here's how you can add them to the list.

6.) You need to be in range of the hotspot and then press Add.

7.) Next, select "Add a network that is in range of this computer."

8.) Now, connect to the network like you normally would and it will be added to the list.

9.) Next, you're going to set the order of the hotspots. That will indicate in which order Windows will try to connect to the hotspots. Organizing the list is as easy as dragging and dropping!

10.) I want to show you one last thing. Right click on any hotspot and choose Properties.

11.) You'll see two options there: "Connect automatically when this network is in range" and "Connect to a more preferred network if available."

12.) Those allow you to toggle on and off whether Vista should automatically connect to them or not. I like to enable them both, because that means if Vista can’t find my main hotspot, it will connect to the next one on the list.

There you have it. Vista wireless networks made easy!

~ Neil Patel

Fix It with a Click, Click

2008-09-20T00:00:00.000+05:30

Do you frequently use MS Excel charts? If so, do you ever find yourself in a situation where you've gone completely through the charting process, had a beautiful graph made and realized you spelled a word wrong?

What now?

Do you have to start all over?

Oh, I hope not! There must be a quick and easy solution somewhere.

Well, breathe easy, because there sure is!

Mistakes in an Excel chart are often fixed with just a click, click.

Did you know that the chart and the data are connected? (A change in the data will automatically change the chart).

Well, that also works with the data labels you highlighted to create the chart. If there's a misspelled word, you can correct it right in the worksheet and just like magic, the chart is fixed too!

But what about all the other titles you put in the graph?

Don't worry. There's an easy fix for that too!

Simply click twice on the title that needs to be changed.

That's right! All you have to do is click, wait a second and then click again.

You'll get a cursor in the text, so you can make any necessary changes.

When you're finished, simply click somewhere else in the graph.

All the mistakes are gone!

~ April

Google Chrome Pros & Cons

2008-09-16T17:31:00.003+05:30

Q:
Can you maybe give us a list of pros and cons for Google Chrome? Thanks!

A:
Great idea! I know there has been a lot of hype the past couple of weeks about the new Web browser from Google called Google Chrome. Yes, it's great to finally have a browser from Google, but along with the excitement, people are having some reservations. So, yes, the best thing to do is put together a list of pros and cons for the browser and you all can decide for yourselves. We're going to start with the pros today and we'll then go over the cons in tomorrow's newsletter. Okay, let's get busy!

Pros

1.) Google Chrome will not crash. Everything within the browser runs on its own, so you won't have to deal with bad Web sites or browser crashes. That also adds a little more security, because it isolates everything into its own environment.

2.) Google Chrome is really fast. Again, since everything works on its own, one slow Web site won't drag the rest of your work down. You can just go to another tab or window and be on your way!

3.) Google Chrome is unnoticeable (in a good way!) The interface for Google Chrome is perfectly streamlined, so you won't even know you're in a Web browser. Most of your window space is devoted to the Web site you're visiting, so there are no big buttons, etc. taking up all your room.

4.) Google Chrome makes searching easier. One of the main features in Google Chrome is Omnibox, which is basically an all-purpose bar located at the top of the browser that you can use to search for something or to find a Web site. All you have to do is type in a URL or a search term and it will do the rest of the work for you. Omnibox also remembers the sites you've visited and suggests others you might like.

5.) Google Chrome gives you more tab control. Tabbed browsing is taken to the next level with Google Chrome. You can drag and drop your tabs, you can combine them together, you can set up your own configurations and so much more!

6.) Google Chrome livens up your homepage. The Google Chrome homepage is very dynamic and like I said before about the Omnibox feature, it will remember the Web sites you've been to so that you can revisit them with ease. It also compiles a list of your favorite top nine sites and displays them on the homepage. Of course, you can change your top nine at any time, but that's just another example of how Google Chrome makes your life easier!

7.) Google Chrome keeps you private. Along with everything else, Google Chrome also offers a private browsing option. It's called Incognito and it basically sets up a browsing area for you that is away from everything else on your computer. You get your own private window to search with, which keeps your information as private as possible.

Sounds pretty good, doesn't it?! I know we haven't gotten into the cons for Google Chrome yet, but the seven pros above will give you something to think about before tomorrow's edition of the newsletter. We'll delve right into the cons first thing tomorrow, so be sure to stay tuned!

~ Erin

New SiteMeter Windows Vista Gadget

2008-09-11T00:21:00.000+05:30

As many of you are aware SiteMeter has developed a Yahoo Widget that allows you to view your sites daily page views and visit totals “live”, on your computer’s desktop, as they happen.

A few months back we were introduced to Rajesh Lal. He was interested in making a similar tool for SiteMeter members using Windows Vista Gadgets. Rajesh Lal is an author, technology evangelist, and solutions engineer specializing in web technologies. Rajesh has completed the new Widget and has also written a book on how to construct you own gadgets.

We have arranged with Rajesh to provide anyone wanting to have a SiteMeter Vista gadget on their desktop with a full working version available through download. Just download the gadget, enter your SiteMeter codename and password and track your sites stats, live on your computer desktop. You will of course need to be using Windows Vista.

The download is available here.

For those interested in learning how to create your own Vista Gadgets the book is titled - Creating Vista Gadgets - Using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript with Examples in RSS, Ajax, ActiveX (COM), and Silverlight.

The book is oriented towards beginner to intermediate users and teaches how to –
• Build a blog tracking Gadget
• Create an Information Gadget with Ajax
• Develop Utility Gadgets using ActiveX (COM)
• Incorporate Internet Radio and YouTube Videos in Gadgets

The book’s cover price is $34.99 and can be found at Borders, Barnes and Noble, Amazon.com and other online retailers. The book is published under the SAMS label and is also “Safari Books Online Enabled”. For more information you can go to www.innovatewithgadgets.com.

Source:- http://weblog.sitemeter.com/2008/06/18/new-sitemeter-windows-vista-gadget/

PC take so long to shut down?

2008-09-06T12:17:00.003+05:30

Why does my PC take so long to shut down?

Dear CNET members,

Happy Friday! Sorry I missed you folks last week, I had some troubles with both my wrists and was decommissioned for a while. However, I'm back in the saddle again. So have you folks had a chance to check out the all-new CNET? I hope you have and I really hope you enjoy it, our entire staff has put countless hours and energy into bring you this new experience. If you haven't done so already, after you've soaked into our new site experience for a while, tell us what you think--hate it or love it, go to the top of any CNET page and click the "Send feedback" link and tell us about it, we are all ears. Now let's get right into Victoria's question on why her PC takes so long to shut down.

Well Victoria, after reading many of our member suggestions for you, there can be many factors that could be causing your Windows system to shut down so slowly. It can range from your PC being infected with viruses/spyware and having an overly defragmented drive, to an excessive amount of programs running in the background, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. The major reasons why PCs will eventually take longer to shut down is simply because more programs in the background need to be ended before the operating system can completely shut down. And one quick solution for that is to minimize clutter and unnecessary programs on your PC, but it may not be as simple as that. So give all the answers a read, start with the simple recommended tasks, and see if there are any improvements. If not, go forward from there. I have selected a few answers to get you started in the Q&A section.

For those of you who suggested completely wiping your hard drive clean and reinstalling Windows, I would keep this option as a last resort. While this is a completely valid method of ridding yourself of many Windows problems, unless you are up to the task and know exactly what you are doing, it can be a daunting task. If you have any more suggestions or advice for Victoria, please swing on by and post your suggestions in the discussion thread. Thanks everyone and have a great weekend!

Cheers!
- Lee

Got suggestions? Send me an e-mail: messageboards@cnet.com

Pepsi Video Online

2008-08-12T18:21:00.001+05:30

How to prevent your PEN drive from VIRUS

2008-08-12T15:33:00.000+05:30

Friends many of your PC/laptop's normally gets virus because of Pen Drives or USB devices (Even PC's who are not connected to network ). Some Virus like Ravmon Virus , Heap41a worm which are not detected by anti virus normally spreads mostly by the Pen Drives . In such a case what can you do to prevent your PC from getting infected with Virus that spreads through USB devices or Pen Drives ?

You can protect your PC by just following the simple steps below . It won't take much time.

* Connect your Pen Drive or USB drive to your computer .
* Now a dialogue window will popup asking you to choose among the options as shown in the figure.

Don't choose any of them , Just simply click Cancel.

* *Now go to Start-- Run and type cmd to open the Command Prompt window ..
* *Now go to My Computer and Check the Drive letter of your USB drive or Pen Drive. ( E.g. If it is written Kingston (I:) , then I: will be the drive letter ..)
* *In the Command Window ( cmd ) , type the drive letter: and Hit Enter ..
* *Now type dir/w/o/a/p and Hit Enter
* *You will get a list of files . In the list , search if anyone of the following do exist
*
* 1. Autorun.inf
* 2. New Folder.exe
* 3. Bha.vbs
* 4. Iexplore.vbs
* 5. Info.exe
* 6. New_Folder.exe
* 7. Ravmon.exe
* 8. RVHost.exe or any other files with .exe Extension .
*
* If you find any one of the files above , Run the command attrib -h -r -s -a *.* and Hit Enter.
* Now Delete each File using the following Command del filename ( E.g del autorun.inf ) .
* That's it . Now just scan your USB drive with the anti virus you have to ensure that you made your Pen Drive free of Virus .

To know whether ur system is infected just type C:heap41a in the address bar...
if there is a folder named heap41a, then ur system is infected...
(AVAST antivirus is the best solution for this worm...) symantec also works.

Screen-o-Meter

2008-08-03T07:22:00.000+05:30

Screen-o-Meter

I ran into a problem the other day. I needed to know how big an envelope was, but I couldn’t find a tape measure or a ruler to save my life. So, I started looking online for one and ran into this Web site!

Screen-o-Meter is a site that allows you to measure things online with your monitor’s screen. All you need to know is the size of the screen your monitor has. If you were to measure it, you would measure the diagonal length of the screen from corner to corner. The site is set up to work with TFT and LCD monitors, but with some adjustments, you can use it with a CRT monitor as well.

To begin measuring, set the monitor screen size. Choose the correct one from the drop down box on the right hand side of the page.

Next, select how long you want the Screen-o-Meter to be. Then click on the Let’s See button. That will take you to the page where your ruler will load.

On the Measurement page, you can test it to see if it's accurate. You’ll put in your screen size and then click on the Check button. When the page loads, there will be a large orange circle. If a CD or DVD fits in the circle perfectly, you know you are calibrated right and you're getting precise measurements.

Back on the main page, under the Main Measurement field, you’ll see a link for a rectangular ruler. That's how you would measure envelopes and such. You just put in the dimensions you’re trying to get and it makes a ruler for it. For example, you could do 3x5, 5x7, 8x11, etc.

Seeing as I can never find a ruler or tape measure when I need one, I know I’ll be using this Web site a lot. I hope you will too!

http://som_en.showdown.hu/

Saying Yes to Spam?

2008-08-01T07:20:00.000+05:30

This week's security article will be a little bit different, but it's definitely worth the read! I know I spend a lot of time telling people what to do to keep their computers safe. I always tell people to keep programs up to date, never reply to spam and keep a good set of security tools available. That's what you should do, but what if you don't? What if you replied to every spam message you ever received? What would happen to your computer and your identity?

Well, I found a very interesting experiment that aimed to find the answers to those very questions. The project is called the Spammed Persistently All Month (S.P.A.M) Experiment. The study was put together by the McAfee security company and it found some very interesting results.

The experiment was conducted all over the world by 50 different volunteers. McAfee gave each of those people a brand new computer with no antivirus or spam filtering software. They were also given a PayPal account to make payments for items they decided to investigate. Each of the volunteers in the experiment were told to respond to every spam e-mail they received. They were also told to visit "bad" Web sites and follow through with phishing e-mails they received. The results were unbelievable!

Most of the volunteers were left with computers that would barely function, e-mail boxes that were crammed with spam and mail showing up at their front door addressed to the fake names they used for the experiment. The U.S. volunteers received 23,233 spam e-mails by the end of the one month study. That was the most compared to the rest of the world. Eighteen percent of the e-mails were phishing e-mails and the largest amount was in English.

The study shows exactly what happens if you're not careful on the Internet. It's not hard to have your computer completely taken over by junk!

If you want to read more about the S.P.A.M Experiment, you can visit the Web site where each of the volunteers kept a blog. They wrote about their experiences daily. You can check it all out right here. Until next time, stay safe out there, my friends!

~ Gary

Google Tips

2008-07-31T07:19:00.000+05:30

Google Tips

So, tell me, are you a huge fan of Google? Do you use it to do all of your important searching on the Internet? It's okay to admit it. Trust me, you're not the only one! Now, do you have the Google searching strategy down to a tee? You know, do you know what to type in the search box to get exactly what you're looking for? Not quite sure if you do or not? Then you've got to check out the tip we're showcasing on our homepage today. It's called Google Tips and it will tell you everything you need to know about searching the right way with Google!

99 Counters

2008-07-27T13:20:00.000+05:30

I’ve always loved the idea of Web counters, but it's always been a grueling task to find one that was visually appealing, as well as, accurate. But not anymore. With 99 Counters, you can make your own counters, just the way you want them, all for free!

All you have to do to get started is register. Begin by clicking on the Sign Up button. All you need is a working e-mail address and to create a password for your account. As soon as you’ve registered, it takes you right to the page where you can start making your own counters!

Choose a theme from the drop down box, name your counter and just like that, you’re done! Or, you can go to the My Themes tab and completely customize your counter.

Start by naming your theme. Then click on the Choose Options link next to each item. For example, Size, Border, Background, etc. That will allow you to edit each of those areas to your exact specifications. You can now use your newly created theme from the drop down menu on the My Counters tab.

This is a very easy way to create a counter from your own customizations. Once you’ve created your counter, it gives you the code you need to embed it on your Web page, social networking profile or blog. Have fun!

http://www.99counters.com/

~ Amanda

Selective Printing - Video Tip

2008-07-25T13:19:00.000+05:30

When you're printing something (whether it's part of a Web page or even part of WorldStart's newsletter), do you ever just want to print part of it instead of the whole thing? I know I like to do that sometimes, because it saves me paper and printer ink. And besides that, why print the whole document when you only need bits and pieces of it? Well, if you would like to learn how you can do that, through selective printing, just click on the link below now! http://imgsrv.worldstart.com/videotips/index.htm

Or, if you would just like to read today's tip, you can do that as well, here:
http://www.worldstart.com/tips/tips.php/567

For stories, jokes, quotes and cartoons every day, sign up for our Just for Grins newsletter.

Control That Virus

2008-07-24T13:18:00.000+05:30

A computer virus is a lot like a human virus. It's contagious, disgusting and something you’d like to stay away from as much as possible. Just like a cold virus, it can be passed on very quickly and it’s difficult to recover from.

So, how does one catch a computer virus? Well, the most common way of transferring and contracting viruses is by copying infected material onto or from an infected floppy disk, CD or DVD. Another way is by receiving infected programs or data files. Since the Internet is quickly replacing the floppy diskette/CD/DVD as the method by which computer data and programs are exchanged, it has also become a vehicle for virus transmission. It can be in the form of an e-mail attachment or by visiting FTP Web sites. The e-mail message alone cannot contain infected data, however, it is possible to attach infected programs and/or data files to an e-mail message. FTP sites are also very popular on the Internet for transferring programs and data files. If the programs or data files on the FTP site are infected, anyone who opens the file will contract the virus.

Removing a virus can be a very challenging task for anyone. But with the right information, it's possible to eliminate a virus infection from your computer. Prevention, however, is better yet! But how, you ask? Well, with regular virus scans, of course!

Scanning for a Virus

1.) If you have an antivirus program installed on your computer (Norton, McAfee, AVG, etc.), it's recommend that you update it before running a scan. Also, make sure it's not expired. If it is, you will not be able to download the latest virus definitions. There's no point in running a scan if your software is not up to date, because new viruses will not be identified and cleared out.

2.) Let’s start by finding your antivirus program. It will more than likely have an icon in your system tray, located in the bottom right hand corner of your screen. After you find it, double click on the icon to open the program.

If you don’t have an icon, you can find your antivirus program by going to Start, All Programs.

3.) You are now on your antivirus program’s main page or control center. Here’s where you can find all the functions your antivirus program offers. Go ahead and click on the tab to run a virus scan.

4.) After you click on the Scan tab, it will give you the option to select the drive you want to scan. It's recommended that you choose the Scan Computer option so that your whole computer is checked.

5.) It will practically run on its own after that. When the scan finishes, it will open a report window where you’ll be able to see if there was a virus found and if it has been healed or quarantined. If need be, it will give you the option to delete it as well.

Plus, to make your life easier, you can even program the antivirus software to run a scan automatically. You can opt to have it scan every time you start up your computer or even just once a week. Cool, huh?! Here are the steps for setting up a scheduled scan.

Scheduling an Automatic Scan

1.) Open up your antivirus program.

2.) Select the drive, disks or files you want to be included in the automatic scan.

3.) From the Tools menu, select Scheduler, then Schedule Scan. (Note: The wording may be different for different antivirus programs, but look for something similar).

4.) Click New.

5.) Follow the prompt and specify an answer for the questions it asks. Here are some of the things you may need to provide:

Event Type: Select the event from the drop down menu (for example, "scan all disks").
When To Do: Select a specified time.
How Often: Select weekly, system startup or whatever you think is best for your computer.
Start Time: Enter the date and time.
Enter the date on the calendar.

6.) Click Done and you're good to go!

Now, what if you don’t have an antivirus program installed on your PC? What can you do? Well, the solution is just a few clicks away if you have an Internet connection. Again, the simplicity of getting a free online scan is so easy, you’ll wonder why you never thought of it before. Simply use a search engine like Google, Yahoo!, etc. to find a free online virus scan and choose one that suits your needs the best.

The key to a virus free computer is making sure you have all the necessary programs installed to protect your PC while you surf the Internet and do all of your other work. Here's to getting rid of viruses for good!

~ Cory Buford

Randomness in Excel

2008-07-23T00:17:00.000+05:30

Ever need random numbers in MS Excel for data analysis?

Or, maybe you just need random numbers to fill cells while you work out formatting issues. You certainly don't want to sit and make up data just for that purpose. No, that takes way too much time.

Luckily, there's a much better way to fill those cells with random data and you can do it within seconds!

All you need to know is the correct formula.

=rand( ) will generate random numbers between 0 and 1.

=rand( )*10 will generate random numbers between 0 and 10.

=rand( )*100 will generate random numbers between 0 and 100.

I'm sure you get the pattern. So, now, it's just a matter of deciding the range of numbers you'd like to use.

Now that you know the formula, you just have to put it to good use!

~ April

Firefox 3.0.1 Updates how to use it

2008-07-22T13:15:00.000+05:30

Hot Off the Press!

The past week has just been jam packed with new releases, so I thought we'd go over a few of those right now! If you're an avid Firefox or SeaMonkey user, I'm sure you're already a step ahead of me, but just in case you haven't heard the news, allow me to fill you in. Here we go!

Let's start with Firefox, shall we?! Probably the biggest news is that a new version of Firefox 3 has already been released. That's right, Firefox 3.0.1 made its debut on July 16, 2008 and it is now available for download. Now, I know you're probably wondering what could have changed so much in just a few weeks, but there really was quite a bit. First of all, several security and stability issues were fixed, along with various other problems Mozilla heard about through user feedback. You can see a whole list of the changes and more on this Web site. Then when you're ready, you can download Firefox 3.0.1 right here.

Now, if you're still using Firefox 2, I have good news for you as well! Firefox 2.0.0.16 was released on July 16, 2008 as well and it is also available for download. Just a few things were changed for this version, but trust me, they're still very important. You can download Firefox 2.0.0.16 for yourself right here. (Note: Just giving you a heads up. Firefox 2 will only be supported until mid-December 2008. After that, you're strongly encouraged to install Firefox 3). And lastly, SeaMonkey 1.1.11 was released on July 16, 2008 as well. You can download it here. I know that's a lot to take in, but all three of these new versions are very important to install as soon as possible. So, all I have left to say is get busy and enjoy!

~ Erin

serial number is on my computer

2008-07-20T11:06:00.000+05:30

Q:
The other day, a technician asked me what the serial number is on my computer. I had no idea, so I told him I would have to find it and call back. What's he talking about? I really have no clue. Help!

A:
First of all, I'm just going to tell you to calm down! You're in good hands now, because I'm going to give you the precise information you need. There's no need to worry any longer. I promise, by the time you're done reading this tip, you'll be able to call that technician back and give him everything he needs. So, without further ado, let's get started, shall we?!

Have you ever been asked for your computer's serial number? How about for some of your other electronic devices? If you have, you probably already know what I'm talking about, but if you haven't, allow me to fill you in! These days, every computer, every device, etc. has its own serial number. Why? Well, keep reading and you'll find out!

The serial numbers are mainly used for inventory purposes, but they also help with identification. For example, if you're having trouble with your computer and you're talking to your manufacturer's technical support, they may ask you for that number, because it helps them to identify what type of computer you have. They can then use that information to help you in a more detailed manner, as well as, much quicker. Your manufacturer can also use that number in case you need a replacement computer or new parts for it. The same goes for any other external devices you may use along with your computer as well.

So, where can you find this number? For most pieces of hardware (including your computer, printer, etc.), the serial number can be found either on the bottom or on the back of the device. For most PCs, it's usually on the bottom of the computer tower or on the bottom of a laptop. Of course, each computer is different, but you should be able to find your number in that general area. Now, most software programs also come with serial numbers, which you are probably more familiar with. Those numbers can usually be found on the actual CD or on the CD's casing. No matter what you need that number for, you now know exactly where to find it. Yes!

~ Erin

Forget Winzip. Try 7-Zip

2008-07-19T00:16:00.000+05:30

This one month traveling, where I was forced to use my Windows laptop, allowed me to discover many new useful and interesting software for the paid operating system.

Back in the day my compression tool of choice was Winzip. Not because I liked it, but because it was the only one I knew. In fact I was heavily annoyed by the “Do you want to register your WinZip copy now?” message that welcomed me every time I opened the program.

This month I decided to search the web for something open source, and hopefully better than WinZip. After some time looking around I came across 7-Zip, and I think it will be difficult to find something that tops that.

7-Zip is free, light, has a record compression rate, and works with most formats. What else could you want? Here is the complete list of features taken from the official website:

High compression ratio in new 7z format with LZMA compression

Packing / unpacking: 7z, ZIP, GZIP, BZIP2 and TAR

Unpacking only: RAR, CAB, ISO, ARJ, LZH, CHM, MSI, WIM, Z, CPIO, RPM, DEB and NSIS

For ZIP and GZIP formats, 7-Zip provides a compression ratio that is 2-10 % better than the ratio provided by PKZip and WinZip

Strong AES-256 encryption in 7z and ZIP formats

Self-extracting capability for 7z format

Integration with Windows Shell

Powerful File Manager

Powerful command line version

Plugin for FAR Manager

Localizations for 69 languages

What is your compression utility of choice?

Source

http://www.dailyblogtips.com/forget-winzip-try-7-zip/

Quick Access Done Your Way M.S.Office Tips

2008-07-18T16:52:00.001+05:30

Working in MS Office 2007?

If so, do you like that really tiny toolbar they give you, located above (or below) your ribbons? You know, the Quick Access Toolbar.

I'm sure you've noticed the down arrow on the right side that gives you access to a list of common commands you can have placed on the toolbar, right?

Well, what about some of the other features on the ribbons you frequently use? Any way to add them?

Well, you could choose More Commands and work through that, but what if you're still not finding the things you really want to add? You know, things that would save you a lot of "ribbon jumping" time if they were displayed on the toolbar all together.

If that's your wish, I have a suggestion for you. Simply try a right click!

The next time you find yourself wishing you could add a button to the Quick Access Toolbar, just try right clicking over it.

When the right click menu opens, you may very well find that you can add it to the toolbar.

Voila. The Quick Access Toolbar put together in your very own way!

~ April

No More Splitting MS Office

2008-07-17T17:45:00.000+05:30

No More Splitting

Here's the scenario: you're working on a table in MS Word when suddenly, a row splits in two. That is, part of the row is on one page and the other part is on the next page.

You're looking everything over, while thinking to yourself, "This just won't do. The topic in each row can't be split apart."

At this point, you're trying to come up with a solution. You need an efficient way to keep the row together.

So, what can you do?

I suppose you could add blank lines to the row just above the split and force Word to put it all together on the next page. I've seen several people use that tactic.

The drawbacks though include the "funny" way the row will look with the extra space. It's just visibly much taller than the other rows in the table and it has a lot of unnecessary white space.

Another problem will appear the moment you try to edit the table above the row with all the blank lines. Added lines above will push those blanks to the top of the next page. So, now, you're busy trying to remember to take them back out.

All in all, it's a bad plan.

Looking for a better idea?

Yes?

Good, because I'd like to offer you one today!

Believe it or not, but there's a setting in Word that allows you to control this very situation.

The only trick here is knowing where to find the right checkbox.

(Since the location of the checkbox varies based on the version of Word you're using, I'll need to give several sets of directions).

If you're running Word 97, the following directions are for you:

First, place the cursor in the row you want to change. (To change settings for multiple rows, highlight all of them before you begin this process).
Next, you need to go to the Table menu, Cell Height and Width choice.
When the window opens, you're looking for the Row tab.
In the middle of the tab, uncheck the "Allow row to break across pages" checkbox.
If you'd like to also make changes for another row, use the Previous Row and Next Row buttons to move through the table and make multiple changes at once.
When you're finished making changes, click OK.

It's time to move on to the instructions for the versions of Word between 97 and 2007:

Again, begin with the cursor in the row you'd like to keep from splitting. (To change settings for multiple rows, highlight all of them before you begin this process).
Now, go to the Table menu, Table Properties choice.
As before, you're looking for the Row tab.
Things are exactly the same here. Uncheck "Allow row to break across pages."
The Previous and Next Row buttons are the same too.
Click OK when you're done.

And, as always, Word 2007 is different, so here are your instructions for that:

Highlight the row or rows you don't want to break into two pages.
You're looking for the Layout ribbon on the Table Tools ribbons that open when working with the table.
On the Layout ribbon, you need the Properties button.
Uncheck the "Allow row to break across pages" checkbox.
If necessary, use the Previous Row and Next Row buttons to navigate elsewhere and make other changes.
Click OK when you're done.

For all versions, the basics you need to remember are to uncheck the box to keep the row completely on one page and check the box to allow Word to split the row between pages.

There you have it. Complete control over which rows Word splits and the ones it doesn't!

~ April