Latest Technology in Computer Hardware

The rate at which new computer hardware products are arriving in the market is simply mind-boggling. As the technology advances, the size and the price of the devices come down, while the efficiency and capacity increase. The scenario is same in all cases, whether it is about internal components like processor, motherboard, RAM, graphics card, and hard disk or for peripheral accessories like mouse, keyboard, and monitors. Personal computers became popular only before about three decades back. But already there are huge piles of outdated and antique hardware components and devices. This is a tribute to the tremendous rate of development of latest technologies in computer hardware field. Perhaps, the newest entrant into the archeological catalogue of computer peripherals is CRT monitors. The sleek looking LCD monitors are spreading like computer virus.

Data storage devices have attracted considerable attention of the technology developers. New kinds of storage devices such as newer versions of flash memory cards, hard disks using latest technology and disks of ever-increasing capacity are the results of advancement in latest technology in compute hardware. The memory size of the random access memory (RAM) cards is soaring to enable the smooth functioning of graphics animation software packages and streaming video websites. Also, computer motherboards have undergone substantial changes over the years. More and more functions are being added to the motherboard. Also, despite the incredible improvement in performance and functionalities, the price of these components has actually fallen steadily.

The most vital component of a computer is the microprocessor. It is in this field that a battle of developing latest technologies in computer hardware takes place. The pace of development of microprocessor increases as the competition between the major processor chip manufacturing companies, Intel and AMD, intensifies. Both the companies are engaging in a neck and neck competition and continuously outdo each other in introducing new technologies.

In the field of computer peripherals, the latest technology in computer hardware is in developing yet another version of wireless mouse and keyboard. The concept of wireless mouse and keyboard is about a decade old. But the development of these items is still a work in progress. The latest products of wireless mouse and keyboard are said to be highly durable and error free.

Some of the developments in the latest technology in computer hardware are gearing up for changing the present concept of desktop and laptop computers. With new developments making possible the convergence of mobile phone technology and computers, a new breed of fully functional palm-top computers are going to be introduced in near future. With touch screen monitors and without the need for a mouse, these gadgets are likely to become the next big leap in the constantly leaping technological development field.

Candis Reade is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about Technology in Computer Hardware, please visit Electronics Hardware for current articles and discussions.

Tools of Programming: Algortihms and Flowcharts

We took a look into the basics of writing a computer program and the importance of "logic" in computer programming. We take the same topic forward here to look into tools that facilitate the same and help device a clean, clear and efficient logic to write a program.

Ok, so now we have a task to write a program for and we have the logic in mind. Although you can simply scribble down the key to the task and start along with writing the program, it is advisable to follow some organized approach in formulating the same. This leads us to what we call an algorithm. Infact, if you see the previous article, the example that we used there actually implied the use of an "algorithm". The steps we listed out there can be collectively termed as an "algorithm" for the problem we had at hand, namely - finding the average of numbers, or, finding the smallest number.

So what is an algorithm?

An Algorithm is a sequential and logical list of instructions to solve a problem covering all possible alternatives. Points to note: 

1. It is a sequential list of instructions
2. Is done informally using a pen and paper i.e. it is NOT a formal program that you feed into a computer
3. Being written in simple English, it is easy to write and debug

Some standardization and uniformity can be brought into algorithms through the next concept we look at - a flowchart.

A Flowchart is a diagrammatic representation of an algorithm using standard symbols and checks the flow of logic running through it.

Other Steps in Problem Solving: 

• Once we have an algorithm/flowchart ready, we move towards the next step in problem solving which we call coding. Coding is basically transcribing or translating the simple English instructions (algorithm) into High Level Code which can be fed into the computer.
• Once we write the program and feed it to the computer, we next have to perform a Dry Run on it, implying, we need to test it using raw data that exhausts all possibilities and tests all limits and conditions of the program
• Errors, if encountered as we test the program, need to be eradicated - which is called debugging the program.

We shall be making use of algorithms in understanding the logic behind solving the problems as we write programs. We have now the base and understanding of concepts to take our first steps towards writing programs.

Write A Program is a technology blog that includes news, views, articles and opinions on mobiles, gadgets, computers and latest technology trends/news. Visit us here [http://www.writeaprogram.net]

Electronic Technology For Military Use

Advances in technology throughout history have often come during times of warfare as nations competed for the most advanced equipment in order to gain the advantage over the enemy. Things like anesthesia, satellite technology, rubber, penicillin, jet engines, and even early computers were all invented during times of war as people struggled to find solutions to wartime problems. As the saying goes, necessity is the mother of invention and this was often the case for modern technological advances during wartime.

The electronic equipment used by the today's modern military is even more technologically advanced than ever before. The military sometimes even utilizes technology most people wouldn't normally associate with the military, like gaming. The armed forces of the United States have used computers and console gaming as recruitment and training tools. Computers are also used heavily in military equipment to improve communication so that all units can work as a whole. Because of the nature of the work of the armed forces, any computer system used in military equipment must be able to stand up to the rigors of battle. For this reason, most military computer systems are built to withstand trauma. They are called rugged portable computer systems. These systems are specifically designed to be able to operate in harsh environments and conditions, including extreme vibrations and extreme climates. These rugged computers are able to consistently function in conditions that would render a normal computer system inoperable, which makes them ideal for military use. Technological advancements like this help the military function even more effectively.

Secure Communication Systems Inc. ( http://www.securecomm.com/ ) Providers of rugged portable computer systems to the military. Ryan Coisson is a freelance writer.

Your Complete Guide to Wireless Printers

Technology is advancing at an incredible pace, consequently changing people's lives, and giving professions a new dimension. Printers have not been left behind in technological advancement, which is currently found in the wireless printers. The wireless printer has changed the face of the conventional printer and given it a new face. Being in tandem with the highly innovative technology of present day, it has put into consideration convenience, efficiency, and the plight of physically handicapped people as well as the old. All this means comfort and making work easier without compromising productivity. The printer is also convenient at home, while travelling or even on holiday far away.

Wireless printers use a Wi-Fi technology. This is a remote communication between the cordless printer and the computer, which does not require cable wires. With the use of Wi-Fi, staff in an office that is networked can share the cable-less printer remotely. All that is required is a router connected to the wireless printer. This technology has helped to minimize wastage of time in moving about in the office to print a document.

Wi-Fi technology used in wireless printers has also come in handy for users of smart phone. Documents can be printed directly from the phone without the use of a computer. For sure, this is good news to travelers who still need to be in office to carry out their duties. With a laptop or a smart phone and a wireless printer, their work continues as usual. This aspect of portability makes the cordless printer most convenient.

Wireless printer does not need cables for communication with the computer, which is a break from the earlier printers. This makes it more convenient in that the headache of default cables has been eliminated. A line-less printer sits neatly on a desk without the untidy sight of cables hanging and cluttering the floor. On safety measures, the cordless printer minimizes short circuit accidents caused by cluttered cables or even a fall when feet are caught in the cables. It has also cut the expenses of buying new cables, which is a strain on the pocket.

Noble as it is appropriate to term it; Line-less printers have put into consideration the welfare of not only the able users but also the physically handicapped and the old. The trouble of moving about the office and plugging in and fixing the cables has been eliminated. It is good news and a good gesture for the physically handicapped and the old since they are challenged in mobility.

Basically, a cordless printer is the modern printer technology to adopt. It has eased the backlog of work awaiting somebody travelling thus redefining an office in context of its setting, an office is anywhere with the appropriate equipments. Compatibility with gadgets like phones gives it an edge over the conventional printers. Who thought a phone can do virtually all the work done by a computer? With wireless printer and a smart phone, the world is now a global village.

Click here to get a Wireless printer and see our wide selection of wireless printers.

Benefits of Digital Photography

Digital photography is a type of photography that uses digital technology to take images of subjects. Until such technology was invented, photography used photographic film to capture images which could be made visible by photographic chemical processing.

Digital photographs can be taken, stored, displayed, printed, manipulated, transmitted and archived using digital and computer technology, without any chemical processing needed.

Digital photography is only one of several different forms of digital imaging. Digital images can also be created with non-photographic equipment such as radio telescopes and computer scanners. You can even create digital images by scanning conventional photographic images.

One benefit of digital cameras is that they may also record audio and video in addition to taking still images. Some are used as webcams and some can display images directly onto a television set. The PictBridge standard allows a camera to plug directly into a printer to print the photographs without the aid of a computer.

In recent years, digital technology has met or exceeded the quality available from standard film-based photographs. In the early years, the biggest downfall of digital technology was that the quality was not as good as a standard photograph taken with film. Now that the digital technology has improved and solved that problem, many commercial photographers have switched over to digital photography.

In fact, almost all the professional news photographers capture their images with digital cameras. With the time pressures of daily newspapers, digital photography was a natural fit once the quality was acceptable.

As digital technology has evolved, so has the features available on digital cameras. In addition to being able to instantly review, edit or delete your photo, there is very little cost in capturing hundreds or even thousands of photographs. Permanent storage on digital media is considerably cheaper than film.

Anti-shake functionality is a newer feature that allows people to take sharper hand-held pictures where a tripod was required in the past. Another cool feature is the ability to apply and remove filters to photographs right on the camera. You can convert them from color to sepia to black and white and then back again without losing the original photograph.

As digital photography continues to evolve, the days of film-based chemical processed photographs are fading quickly into the past.

Notes for editors: Claire recommends Neil Walker a Wedding Photographer in Sussex in the UK

Mobile Application Development Technology and Its Implementation Area

Today Smartphone is hybrid of computer and mobile phone. Many tasks which were earlier possible only on computer can now be done on mobile phone. This has happened due to the Smartphone operating system platform and it application development environment. In this article, I am scrutinizing current mobile technology and its implementation area.

Technology for Smartphone and application development

iPhone - Apple with its iPhone is the uncrowned king of Smartphone industry. iOS 4 is the latest version of the iPhone mobile operating system. iPhone SDK is used for apps development. Anyone can develop apps according to the standard guidelines and upload it on apple apps store for sale.

Blackberry - It has got huge number of users in all segments. In business world blackberry is the most preferred phone. Blackberry apps development is based on the java platform.

Android - It is most rapidly growing mobile operating system platform. It has a very great future. In a very short span of time, large number of mobile manufacturers is getting associated with Android. It is open source supported by Google. Latest version for mobile and tablet are Android 2.2 and 3.0 respectively. Android Apps Development is also based on java technology.

Symbian - Nokia is the largest producer of Smartphone and use symbian in it. This is open source technology, which is maintained by Nokia. "Symbian 3" is latest version and "Symbian 4" is expected to be released in first half of 2011. Symbian apps development is based on C++ technology.

Window - Microsoft's mobile operating system is also known as Windows. In current scenario, it is losing its popularity. To revive it share in Smartphone market Microsoft has launched Windows 7. It is unsupported by the earlier version of windows phone. Its user interface gives you look and feel of Microsoft Desktop OS.

BREW - QUALCOM is the creator of BREW mobile platform. It was basically developed for CDMA mobile phone, but now GSM is also supported. Brew Mobile Apps Development is a very flexible development platform. Application for this platform can be developed on or C++ using the BREW SDK and also Java base development is possible if the mobile has got JVM on it.

J2ME - It is the most famous mobile apps development platform. It supports verity of the development platform. It is open source technology and is maintained by Sun Microsystems, which is now owned by Oracle.

Diver's field benefited from Mobile Application Development.

1. Business Management
2. Money control and Management
3. Fun and Entertainment
4. Video Games on Mobile
5. Social Networking
6. Mobile commerce
7. Tour and Travel
8. Sports News and updates
9. Climate and Weather
10. Global Positioning System

For more information on mobile application development and mobile developers Visit RapidsoftTechnologies.com

Benefits Of Future Technology

In this write up, the readers will get information on future technology and learn to what extent modern technology has been developed to assist the growth of human civilization.

Technology of the Future would be more sophisticated and user friendly. The rapid technological advancement will make technology more convenient and usable. New technology should be used for the benefit of the society. Now, it is better to say to what extent science and technology have been acceptable to the present generation. In comparison to conventional devices and equipment, future technology news states that ultramodern devices are more workable and powerful in their functionality. According to scientists and researchers, modern technology can make modification and upgrading of common things for their proper usage applying modern methods. The world will be more glamorous and attractive with newer technology and without any trace of carbon footprint.

If you check future technology news, you will find that there are newly launched products and technical accessories which have multifunctional features. For instance, recently Kevin Cheng invented Solar Planter which protects the natural green resources of nature. Plants will be highly protected using the Solar Planter which artificially creates solar energy to preserve green plants in a perfect way. The device is also equipped with powerful exhaust fans to clean out stagnant air from within the Solar Planter. Air will be circulated well inside the planter for the safe keeping of trees and plants. The Solar Planter is also energy efficient and environment friendly. According to future technology news nature will be completely protected from pollution using these new technologies as it will not produce any lethal or hazardous chemical solvents or gasoline products into the air.

In the sphere of the telecommunication, future and modern technology is very powerful and has contributed extensively for the betterment of the communication system. The invention of the humanoid robot is a burning example. Future technology news say that this robotic structure will be sent to out of the planet to strengthen the communication system. Experiments are still going on the upgrade of this robot.

Concept Cloud Blackberry is a sophisticated mobile phone which is both eco friendly and pollution free. This mobile is activated by liquid fuel which doesn't disturb the peace of nature. Future technology will bring a lot more inventions and accessories to upgrade human lifestyles. The scientists believe that modern science is very effective to make the world green. Future technology must be more user friendly and should not hamper the natural growth of the human race. It must not disturb nature or the society.

Science is a boon and man needs to utilize this for the overall development of the world. Future technology these days not concentrated only on the benefit of humans. Scientists are trying to create technology that will be beneficial to the earth as well.

Conclusion: To get updated information on latest technology, you can check future technology news on the Internet. There are new discoveries and upgrades available every day.

3 Performance Enhancement Tweaks for Windows XP Computers

Computers are powerful and complicated things, and as much as we would like them to do exactly what we're thinking, it just doesn't work that way. (Yet?) In this article, I'm going to give you 3 specific performance tweaks for your Windows XP computer that should give you a nice little boost at least in those specific areas. Every computer is different and every user and their applications are different, so as the saying goes, your mileage may vary.

A word of caution before we begin - if you are at all uncertain of how to implement these tips, please do not try them or consult a computer expert first.

1. Disable Visual Effects

Windows XP ships with a host of visual effects such as seeing the contents of windows as you're dragging them, seeing an animation effect when a window is minimized or maximized, shadows and fade-ins and fade-outs. The Windows developers designed the operating system such that some of those effects could be disabled on an individual basis.

Right-click on My Computer and select Properties, click the Advanced tab, then click Settings under the Performance section. Select custom and enable/disable effects as wanted. Once you disable an effect and save, you will definitely notice how much faster an action is without the effect.

2. Adjust the Menu Display Delay in the Start Menu

Ever notice that when you go into the Start Menu and hover over a folder, it takes just a tad bit for that menu to pop up? That's because there is a built-in delay that is usually a bit too long for the average person. I like my menus snappier and have turned that value down to 150ms (milliseconds). You can toy with this to get it to your liking. Here's how:

Launch the Registry Editor by clicking on Start, selecting Run, then typing in 'regedit' and hitting Enter. Then navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER -> Control Panel -> Desktop. In that registry key (looks like a folder), double-click the entry called MenuShowDelay and adjust the number in the ValueData field.

3. Disable Legacy Filename Creation

Windows long had a very strong link to MS-DOS and even into Windows XP, it has included a transparent function where it would silently create a MS-DOS-compatible filename (one that was restricted to 8 characters followed by a period and then by 3 more characters.

Of course, Windows has long since surpassed that limitation and we don't think about it any more. However, Windows still maintains that compatibility by default and creates those in the background. Here's a quick way to squeeze just a bit more oomph from your system by disabling the creation of those filenames.

Launch the Registry Editor by clicking on Start, selecting Run, then typing in 'regedit' and hitting Enter. Then navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE -> CurrentControlSet -> Control -> FileSystem. Double-click the NtfsDisable8dot3NameCreation value and set its DWORD value to '1'.

You should be able to apply these 3 tips within 10 minutes, longer if you want to experiment some more with the values and results. Of course, there are hundreds of other possible tweaks that you could apply to your system, but it's best to go slow and only 1 or 2 at a time and ensure that they don't conflict with anything else on your computer.

Khalid Hosein is a blogger, computer consultant and tech geek who runs gadget blog Gizmos for Geeks, where you can find the latest in gadget and technology news, insights, howtos and much more. Visit Gizmos for Geeks for a free ebook comparing the top eReaders on the market today.

Effects of Information Technology on Life

With the existing new technologies and innovations emerging every other day, the information technology is an increasingly interesting platform not just for developers, but also for all sorts of non-technical common people.

With the need for making things easier in the daily life and with the technological advancements, more and more daily activities are shifting online. Having said this, the web can be a very useful tool as well as an intimidating proposition at the same time.

Computer based technology and information systems are actually quite large and vast spread in their utility, have broader spectrum and details. For instance when anyone uses the web for browsing, sending or receiving e-mails, playing online games or even sharing multimedia files with others, all the data has to pass through a set of complicated networks and soft-wares. There are many processes involved that are responsible for management of such systems.

The prime concern of computer related technology is to provide effective and efficient environment, utility of information, softwares and even knowledge and solutions to the common man in a user-friendly manner.

Even the vast majority of people who are still unfamiliar with the technology of computers and the internet, surely find it handy in providing a great means of communication to the whole wide world.

Internet plays a role of a large knowledge base and a crucial place for the latest news, trends and information. Internet even is a big boon to the business or research persons.

Computer related technologies have a strong impact on the world. These have attracted many students and professionals to the field of information technology. There are thousands of web sites and web hosting opportunities available which are ever growing.

There was some problem in the information superhighway of computer technology in the early 90's because it was not envisioned at that time that the general public would be turning to it in such large numbers. It was supposed to be a walkway reserved for bespectacled physicists and university professionals. With the introduction of the World Wide Web which we know today as 'www' was once considered as a medium for sharing text files has gone a major facelift in a period of a decade or so. With the web browsers designed to quickly find and organize information, the internet seeped deeper into popular culture and has become an integral part of daily life and even office work.

The unique fusion of the user interface, animations, video and radio streaming are the ever developing capabilities and advancements of the browsers that have the developers intrigued and working tirelessly.

There are many researches already claiming that the effect of the computer technology, more specifically the online footprint on an internet user's life is at an average more than that is due to watching TV. What television is renowned for is its multimedia content. The internet with its rich applications and focused capacity of gaining more popular viewer ship is moving in the right direction.

IT Solutions Raleigh

Acer Iconia - A Laptop With Two Screens And No Keyboard

Acer Iconia is what you choose when you think at iPad functionality as a failure and a normal laptop seems too boring for your taste.

Probably created for those who think that the classic keyboard is old-fashion, Acer Iconia offers no less than two 14-inch diagonal screens, each displaying a resolution of 1366x768 pixels. Both screens are glossy finish and offers a multitouch interface, a little uninspired mix for the two surfaces because will be constantly covered with fingerprints.

Multitouch interface is pleasant to use on a 14-inch screen and offers a good level of control for ordinary activities like Web browsing, image editing, moving and resizing applications in Windows, in some respects this approach is superior compared with a classic combination of banal keyboard and mouse.

Virtual keyboard is definitely harder to use than a conventional, lacking tactile sensation by pressing keys. Virtual representation of the keyboard is still generously sized and allows a reasonable level of control, even if it is not recommended for extended session activities like writing long office documents.

Depending on the configuration chosen, Acer Iconia will be equipped with 4GB or 3GB of RAM, Intel Core i5-480M, 560M and 580M, and the hard drive capacity ranges from 320GB to 750GB of storing memory.

The basic configuration includes of course the two 14-inch multitouch screen, a graphical user interface managed by Intel HD graphics with 128MB shared video memory from the system board memory. The list of features also includes a webcam with 1280x1024 pixel resolution, WiFi mode 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 3.0 + HS, integrated 3G connectivity, Gigabit LAN interface and an integrated microphone.

Connectivity options include four USB 2.0 ports and one USB 3.0, VGA and HDMI connectors, along with an optical output S/PDIF for audio. Device weight is about 3kg, which also includes the high capacity Li-Ion battery with four cells.

From the information available so far, it looks like Acer Iconia will be released on January 28, 2010, with an estimated retail price of 1,500 euros for the basic configuration.

Visit our Website to find the best source for Laptop and Computer News

Iordakis has been involved in Article Writing, providing Free Articles, SEO and Internet Marketing Expertise for more than 10 years. Find the latest IT and Technology News at http://www.gonotebook.info

Upcoming Technologies

Use of Internet has been changing the way people do nearly everything from consuming media to performing research to maintaining relationships to communicating. Along with its effect on business has also been similarly wide ranging. And today, for critical data, Internet based computing, or cloud computing is introducing major changes to the way work is done. Cloud computing is a general term for things over the internet delivering hosted services. These services are broadly divided into three categories: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platformas a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service.

Cloud integration provides with significant benefits. Regardless where you are, you may have access to data in the cloud through your PC or smartphones. All you require for that is an internet connection and a web browser. With the right tools, you can have access to your data in the cloud in no time and it will still remain with your desktop, laptop, or smartphone.

Cloud computing comes into mind only when you think about what IT always needs: a way to increase capacity or add capabilities on the fly without investing in new infrastructure, training new personnel, or licensing new software. Cloud computing is based on subscription based or pay per use service that, in real time over the Internet, extends IT's existing capabilities.

Cloud computing is further laid into three segments- Infrastructure, Platform and Software.

(IaaS)

Infrastructure as a Service. Just like Amazon Web Services that provide virtual server instances with unique IP addresses and blocks of storage on demand. Customers use the provider's application program interface (API) to start or stop or get access and configure their virtual servers and storage. It is sometimes referred to as utility computing.

PaaS

Platform as a service in the cloud is a platform of the software and development tools provider's infrastructure. Developers create applications on the platform of the providers over the Internet. PaaS providers use APIs, gateway software installed on the customer's or computer website portals. Currently there are no standards for interoperability or data portability in the cloud.

SaaS

In the software as a service cloud model, the vendor supplies the software product and hardware infrastructure and interacts with the user through a front-end portal. SaaS provides with very broad market for services. Services can be anything from Web based email to database processing and inventory control. The end user is free to use the service from anywhere because the service provider hosts both the application and the data.

The idea is not new, but this form of cloud computing is getting new life from Amazon, Sun, IBM, and others who at this instant offer for storage and virtual servers that IT can access on demand. Enterprise's may replace parts of the data centre influenced by utility computing.

So the one who will be enormously affected by a paradigm shift in the computing industry would be the software industries, hardware manufacturers and internet service providers and how the industry will pointedly be revised with utility computing. For more news of upcoming technology happenings, please visit latest technology news.

Learning To Work On A Computer

The greatest invention of the 20th Century remains the computer as this little piece of technology has managed to completely change our lives. Whether it is a good or a bad invention, it hasn't been decided yet even though debates continue for a long time now. Nevertheless, we think it is vital for a person to get computer training because great part of our day to day activities relies on this machine.

Computer knowledge has become essential these days as more and more work tasks are performed with the help of various PC programs. Even the jobs that are not directly related with computers require employees to have a certain degree of knowledge in informatics because sooner or later they will have to write a document on the PC.

According to a recent research, it appears that computer literate people are more likely to get a better job position in their institution. When asked about it, all employers have agreed upon the fact that PC knowledge enables workers to fulfill more tasks at the same time and to obtain more accurate results. Thus, they confirmed that they would rather hire or promote computer literate persons than individuals who don't possess any such skills.

It is not just your career that is based on computer skills, but your social life, as well. Internet networking has become the number one form of communication as it is the fastest, the cheapest and the most accessible way to keep in touch with your friends and your family. In addition, the Internet is the first place where new songs and movies are released, so it is important for people who want to stay up to date with the latest news in the entertainment industry to know how to work on a computer.

There are many private schools that would gladly teach you how to use a computer to complete various tasks, depending on the fields that interest you. We strongly recommend you to take up a course that comprises notions of document processing, information technology and Internet browsing as these are the most requested skills at present. This way, you will increase your career opportunities and you will improve many other aspects of your life because an informed person is a powerful person.

There are specialists in delivering top quality IT support Manchester, which relieves unnecessary burdens found in businesses today.

The Top 6 Software Applications for Fun, Entertainment and Gaming

These computer and Internet things aren't just for work, you know. We can (and should) have some fun with them. Ok, ok, so many of us are guilty of goofing off more than working sometimes. But nevertheless, it's important to balance work with play, and with that in mind, we present a quick list of software applications (and one primarily hardware product) that you can have a lot of fun with.

Of course, all of these apps can be and are used for some serious business. Additionally, with the exception of 1 item, these are all free software downloads or services that are available for the leading operating systems today including Windows, Macs and Linux.

1. Facebook

Top of the list today is easily Facebook. Addictive to many, Facebook's one-stop site for staying in touch with your friends, family and colleagues, is also home to thousands of applications itself. Those applications span the gamut from connecting with your friends, keeping track of birthdays, staying on top of your favorite tv shows and of course, games. Lots and lots of games.

2. Skype

A free (for basic services) VoIP-based video chat application, Skype rules the roost in this category and it's one of the many ways in which we're taking the future for granted, for the future is here. Sure, the video and/or audio quality isn't always great, but think about this: you 'Skype' with your mom, and she knows what it is and expects you to video call her now!

3. Twitter

Twitter, the micro-blogging/status update service, has become the latest go-to location for entertainment. No longer do marketers or breaking news dominate the tweets. Actors and comedians now frequently use Twitter, and while it is a new challenge for everyone, some like Conan O'Brien for example are proving that they know how to make people laugh even with a 140 character limit.

4 and 5. Firefox and Chrome

Yes, Web browsers. What's fun about them? Granted they don't really have very many extensions/plugins to play games in the way that the Facebooks, iPhones, and Xboxes of the world, but where else do you really watch YouTube videos, re-runs of TV shows you missed on Hulu, or play Flash-based video games on any of thousands of websites? In your browser of course.

If you're on a Mac, you can also use Safari to great effect, but remember that Firefox and Chrome both can be extended and tweaked via the thousands of extensions, apps and themes available, most for free.

6. TiVo (DVRs in General)

Not a primarily a software program that runs on your computer, but how much fun is having a digital video recorder (DVR) like a TiVo to record your favorite TV shows and movies and then watch them later? Don't you now wish you could hit pause or go back 10 seconds in real life too? TiVo and others like Dish Network also include Web-based interfaces so you can program your boxes even if you're not at home directly controlling the box with its remote control.

Ok, enough reading - go fire up your favorite app, relax and have some fun.

Khalid Hosein is a blogger, computer consultant and tech geek who runs gadget blog http://GizmosForGeeks.com, where you can find the latest in gadget and technology news, insights, howtos and much more. Visit Gizmos for Geeks to see more of his must-have, daily-use tech products list that will give your life and productivity an instant boost once you start using them

Computer Training - Its Top Benefits for Self Improvemen

Computer training plays an important role in our lives. Almost all of us rely on technology. We use technology to send emails, view news, shop, and even check our bank account online. This pervasiveness of technology in our lives makes computer education or online training so important.

If you are looking for some online computer training to develop more of your skills and improve yourself, then this is the right article for you. Taking online training is not only for upgrading your knowledge in the field of information technology but also to improve yourself too. You might be wondering how this training could possibly help someone be a better person. There are actually several ways. By taking computer training online you get to develop self discipline. You get to set your own schedule so having goals and making it a priority is important. It is imperative in order to finish the training program that you have started. Computer training also allows you to identify where your interests and skills intersect and give you a peek at what skills are going to be needed in future jobs.

Another benefit that you get from taking computer online training programs is the title of being a certified professional. When applying for a job you will have something that stands out. Employers prefer those who have expertise in the field of technology because they know that they can be more efficient.

Choosing online training makes lives more flexible. You can adjust your course load to your schedule. For instance, you can go jogging while listening to a lecture using your mobile phone, mp3 player or an iPod. This can greatly increase your productivity. It also develops your ability to do multiple things at once which is a valuable skill in the workplace.

Finally, you develop relationships. Why? In computer training online there are opportunities to take advantage of a type of training known as an instructor-led program. You get to take the training course with the guidance of a teacher. With this kind of program you get to develop and build a friendly relationship with your instructor. This also gives you somebody to ask questions to who has actually been in the field.

Taking an online course allows you to develop patience, self- discipline and become a certified professional in a technology field. Computer training helps build skills that will benefit you in the workplace for years to come.

To learn more about computer training, please go to http://www.trainingcenter.com and avail there affordable services.

Pay More Attention to WiDi Technology

Almost everyone has heard of the "Home Theater PC" (HTPC) and people are rapidly becoming familiar with media center extenders that can play music, pictures and video on your TV. But there is one segment that isn't getting as much attention, and in my opinion is the best of them all. Intel Wireless Display (WiDi) technology has been out for over a year, and is now in its second generation. With WiDi, you don't need a second computer attached to your TV, you don't need a server streaming to a third party media center extender, all you need is your laptop. WiDi is hardware accelerated wireless streaming of your computer's display and sound to the TV.

WiDi is mainly intended for laptop users as it enables them to sit on the couch and use their TV as their laptop screen. Various ways of doing this have been around for years, and have usually involved either plugging your laptop in to the TV or streaming through a media center extender box. Plugging your laptop in is a pain, and requires a long cable. Media streamers and media center extenders are usually slow, expensive, require another computer to act as a server, and can only do limited things. There are also a few third party solutions for streaming video to the TV, but they typically involve SW transcoding which is CPU intensive. This limits the capabilities of the video stream as well as bogging down the laptop in the process.

What's great about WiDi is that all you have to do is push a button on the laptop and the display is automatically transmitted to the TV. It's fast and easy. Since this is accomplished mainly in hardware, without software processing, the CPU is still largely free to do with as you please. So you can surf the web, watch movies, read a document, or whatever else you do on the computer from your couch using the TV and home entertainment system. WiDi 2.0 will soon support full Dolby 5.1 Surround as well, something many media center extenders lack. The downside is that a separate receiver box is necessary on the TV side to receive the signal, and they usually go for around $100. This is still less money than a media streamer and offers much more flexibility. There is also a small amount of lag between the movements on the laptop screen and the movements on the TV. This makes it difficult to play certain computer games. If WiDi technology gains popularity, there will be ample incentive for Intel to address the lag issue in future versions.

In my opinion WiDi technology is superior to media streamers and HTPC (unless you are recording tv with the latter). It is simpler and more versatile than a media streamer, and far cheaper and more efficient than a HTPC. Use it to play your ripped DVDs on the TV, amongst other things.

UPDATE:

So I was all ready to publish this article on how great WiDi technology is, and then along comes WHDI. WHDI corrects the shortcomings of WiDi and adds a huge key advantage. The basic premise is the same, wireless transmission of your laptop's screen to the TV along with audio. While WiDi offers a nice integrated solution using the existing wireless chip in the laptop, the lag due to hardware compression of the video stream makes playing games on the TV from the computer virtually impossible. WHDI instead offers an uncompressed, lag free video stream from an external device that attaches to both the USB and HDMI ports of the laptop. No special laptop hardware is required, and it doesn't even really need to be a laptop at all. Anything with a USB and HDMI connection will work, Tablets, cell phones, anything. Since there is virtually no lag, anything is now possible, even games. As much as I wanted to love WiDi, there is just no getting around the fact that WHDI offers a better solution

WHDI products are just now starting to hit the stores, along with WIDI 2.0 products in the near future. It will be interesting to see how WIDI 2.0 based hardware competes with WHDI. Current WHDI offerings from HP and Asus are large and bulky and would be a pain to use with the laptop on the couch. But there are a bunch of products launching in the near future that pack everything into a simple stick that plugs into the side of the computer, rivaling the convenience of WIDI's integrated solution.

The Raba Review: http://www.rabareview.com
Technology and Science news and views

Computer Technology - Look How Far We Have ComeComputer Technology - Look How Far We Have Come

I caught my self just sitting back thinking about computers and computer technology. It was a whimsical thought really.

Noting too deep or fancy. I was just considering how far we've come and how quickly.

It is common knowledge that in the 1950's, a computer that would fill a Wal-Mart store had nothing on the computational power and storage capacities of the modern smart phone.

At that time, the internet just got started and the web wasn't even a dream. I can remember a television news broadcast from 1980 of the newly invented computer networking. It took several hours and hundreds of dollars to transmit a newspaper from one computer to another. This was 1980 mind you. A mere 30 years ago.

Only 20 years ago, the internet was really starting to take root. At least among geeks. And it looked like DOS (Remember DOS?).

As little as 10 years ago was well before Twitter and Facebook and YouTube. That was when Google got its start. And Bill Gates called the internet a "passing fad". Right. Good call, Bill.

Although the internet still isn't replacing the desktop for App hosting and file hosting, it is running web pages with App like effects and speeds. And there are how many files being hosted online as backups?

Indeed, much more traffic is on the smart device internet than on the browse-able web.

Think Xbox Live. Think Smartphone texting. Or Netflix streaming. While some components of some of these may be accessed by a web browser, the majority aren't.

Now we're looking at the possibility of a web 2.0 being much faster and more reliable. Not to mention the interface moving into multi-touch and even brain wave activated.

We've come a long way in 60, 30, 20, and 10 years. I'm personally looking forward to the next of each.

Cheap Home Video Surveillance - Security For Your Home Doesn't Have to Cost You an Arm and a Leg

If you want to keep your home and family safe but are worried that it will cost you a large sum of money to do so, then worry no more! In this article you are going to learn about cheap home video surveillance technology that will enable you to have a good level of security on your property without costing you "an arm and a leg." Believe it or not, but it is actually possible to make and install your own system for less than $100!

Once upon a time the only way that you could have a video surveillance system in your home was to have a professional complany install one for you. This is extremely expensive and you can easily see hundreds of dollars disappear very quickly. However, the good news is that with modern computer technology you can now have your own cheap home video surveillance system, and you can build it as well.

The basic process for doing so is to use an everyday web camera as the surveillance camera in your system. These work well as they are cheap, covert, and readily available from all good electronics stores or online. You set up the camera in the desired position and then connect it to your computer or laptop.

To monitor the feed from the camera you will need camera surveillance software; this can be purchased online for less than $50 and will give you all the tools you need to be able to properly monitor your new surveillance system. It can run easily in the background on your computer and won't use much memory or processing power either.

With the right surveillance software you can check your camera feed from any computer or mobile phone in the world- click here to find out how (and get a large discount on the software whilst you learn more about how to make your own cheap home video surveillance system)

Video Game News - Copy Video Game Software Has Arrived

We spend a lot of time on weekends playing our favorite sport games and other mind-challenging game favorites on our Play Station, Xbox or Wii gaming consoles. One must however consider how he/ she would react if their video game could not be found, or got scratched or otherwise damaged. These are serious economic times: who wants to invest in such an expensive video game only to have to replace it soon after due to carelessness? How much trust can you place in your friends and family members?

Buying copy video game software would enable copies to be made of the original games, so that the original games can be stored away safely.

Both the Internet and computer technology have come a long way in their respective developments. By now, billions of people worldwide own either a home computer or a laptop with Internet access installed. These days most computers are manufactured with copying capabilities. A person is able to create copies of their video games just as long as they have access to a computer.

Copy video game software can be purchased from the comfort of home, at an online store. If one is searching for deals and are open to taking risks in order to save money, they can find many online sources that offer good discounts on these copy software.

Other sources have free trial periods, which enable buyers to test the workability of the software before committing to a purchase. Some sources allow the prospective buyer to copy two DVDs for free using their software on the condition that a purchase is made soon after.

If a person wants quality and is willing to pay to get it, the Easy Back-up Wizard is a great download that can be purchased on the Internet for a 1-time payment of $50.00, or less.

The Easy Back-up Wizard is compatible with a many of the CD/DVD based video games currently available, and the time that this software takes to download is not as long as other back-up software on the market.

Video games are now being manufactured with an embedded code or encryption, which is not normally sold with the product. This is intended of course to prevent illegal duplication of these games. The Easy Back-up Wizard will break through the encryption, so that duplication of the disc can then be facilitated. This is not an illegal process once the video game being copied was legitimately purchased, and will only be used privately. However it is right to be mindful of the legalities of the situation.

Creating copies of your games will be less stress in the long run. Instructions are often included with software of this kind.

If you want to copy video games and you are tired of the hassle, go to http://www.FreeDailyGaming.com

Plenty of Computer Magazines to Read

Because there are many different kinds of computer hardware and products in the industry it makes sense that there are various different types of magazines to choose from also. These techy magazines can be used by computer users to get good ideas of what computers are going to be better for one to use.

These magazines include ones that can be used for information on hardware that can be used for business or for fun. Apple technology is also covered in magazines tailored for Apple users too

Some computer magazines feature information on not only the best types of computers to use but also other forms of electronics that are used in society today. This is great for those who are looking to learn more about computers and how it works for a particular computer.

People who are interested in computer technology for business purposes should know that there are also computer hardware magazines that cater to their needs. You can usually find a magazine that works with information technology hardware. This includes data and news on products in the IT industry.

There are also magazines that work with computers for entertainment purposes. Maximum PC is one of the country's top magazines when it comes to learning about this type of information. Known for its interest in entertainment services from computers and its sense of humor, this works especially with hardware that can be used for entertainment programs on the computer. This includes information on how to make top performing computers and how to make computers that perform very well without having to spend lots of money. Inspections of various different types of computer hardware are also featured.

PC Gamer is another big name product in the world of computer hardware magazines. While this magazine does more to cover computer games as a whole computer gaming hardware and other pieces of hardware for entertainment purposes can be found in this magazine too. This includes video cards, monitors and audio systems that will work great for computers. These technology products can be used not only for games but also for entertainment products and for home theater systems based out of a computer.

There are also computer hardware magazines that are for Apple users. Macworld is the most widely produced and famous of these magazines. This includes information on hardware that can be used with Apple computers and comparisons of various different Apple products and hardware that can be used in the line of computers. Information on tuning up an Apple computer for maximum hardware performance is also included.

MacAddict is also for those who use Apple computers. This features information on hardware that is included in new Apple products and on upgrades that can be used with Apple computers. Details of other products in the Apple universe and even software demos of new programs that can be used on Apple computers are also featured here. Full video previews of the hardware featured here is included in video discs that come with issues of MacAddict.

Those are some of the many computer hardware magazines on the market. Whether it be for a first time user, one who is interested in information technology hardware, a person who wants to improve the entertainment quality of the computer or even an Apple user there's a magazine for everyone. These magazines can be found at a typical bookstore that sells magazines or at a computer product store.

Terry Detty knows that Search Engine Placement Services [http://www.internetsubmitter.com/index.php/search-engine-submission/msn-search-engine-submission] and Home Business Internet Marketing [http://www.internetsubmitter.com] is valuable to his Firm.

5 Android News Apps for Tablets

Some years back, people relied on local newspapers for the catchiest headlines. When radio and television entered the picture, people had other options to catch the latest happenings. They can go about their daily routine in the morning, and catch up on the current events during the evening.

This generation, however, boasts of what the tablets can provide to people: catching the latest news with a few swipes of the fingertips. Tablet PCs can now be used to get your daily dose of news items whenever and wherever. What you need to do is to simply download a good news application that will turn your ordinary tablet into a state-of-the-art virtual newspaper.

Here is a list of the top five Android news apps for your tablet:

1. Feedly

This is a free news app that has a revolutionary layout with very few text-based article listings. Its interface also features a lot of useful icons. It is powered by Google Reader, Instapaper, Read It Later and Twitter.

This app also comes with two versions: the dark and the light versions. The landing page has big titles and white spaces so as not to crowd the reader of information. It could also be set to synchronize with Google Reader.

2. Pulse News

The Pulse News app is great addition to any Android-powered tablet. It integrates some of the most-browsed websites like Facebook to make daily sharing of news possible. If there are any striking news events that you would like to share to your family and friends, Pulse News can do just that through the instant sharing powers of Facebook. The list view of the articles has been incorporated so conveniently, so that instead of the typical horizontal scrolling, the news feed can now be browsed through thumbnails.

3. CNN

One of the most trusted news bureaus of the world is CNN, and its version on the Android Phone is deemed just as smart and reliable. If you want to retrieve the best and most reliable headlines, CNN is the most trusted news giant there is, and its app will give you the freshest most important news of the day. Its theme is characteristically dark, with a lot of multimedia content and news breaks from all over the world. iReport and shortcut options are also available.

4. CNET

CNET is known for their award-winning coverage on everything about consumer technology. Every technology-savvy individual can never own a tablet without this app installed. With the CNET app, image galleries, product reviews and press releases can be conveniently accessed. It also offers a lot of rich video content if you do not mind the ads that pop up occasionally.

5. MSNBC

This is a popular source of news powered by computer giant Microsoft. Like the previously featured applications, MSNBC loads a lot of very rich content using multimedia technology. The app itself provides a variety of content such as articles and videos about current events. You can search for pertinent articles and stream brief videos that are relevant to today's society.

Being busy is never a good excuse to miss out on the most relevant current events that affect the nation and the world. Even if you are a very busy person, owning an Android-powered tablet with a good news app installed will make it possible for you to keep in touch with the world.

Danny loves playing Android Tablet Games and when not playing games, he is writing his blog trying to find the best Cheap Android Tablets.