Wireless Networking for Boomers

If you have a laptop computer then wireless networking is ideal. You can connect to your high speed Internet connection in bed or outside your house.  It only takes a couple of hours to set up a wireless network in your home.

Don't stay tied to your desk when you can roam freely in your home with this D-Link quality wireless networking bundle. This bundle includes the 22Mbps D-Link AirPlus DWL-650+ CardBus Adapter and the 22Mbps D-Link DI-614+ Enhanced Wireless Router (Recertified).

The D-Link AirPlus DWL-650+ CardBus Adapter is an enhanced 802.11b CardBus featuring an advanced silicon chip design from Texas Instruments that utilizes their patented Digital Signal Processing™ technology. The DWL-650+ is fully compatible with the IEEE 802.11b standard, making it suitable for all existing 802.11b compliant devices. When connected to standard 802.11b devices, transfer rates can be up to 20% faster. When connected to other D-Link AirPlus products, the performance is even greater—up to 22Mbps! The DWL-650+ also features 256-bit WEP encryption, providing you a higher level of security for your data and communications.

The D-Link AirPlus DWL-650+ also includes a configuration utility to discover available wireless networks and create/save detailed connectivity profiles for those networks most often accessed.

The DWL-650+ is a powerful 32-bit CardBus Adapter that installs quickly and easily into laptop PCs. When used with other D-Link AirPlus products, it automatically connects to the network. All D-Link wireless adapters can be used in ad-hoc mode to connect directly with other cards, or in infrastructure mode to connect with a wireless access point for access to the Internet in your office or home network. The AirPlus DI-614+ combines the latest advancements in 802.11b silicon chip technology

from Texas Instruments and robust firewall security features. The DI-614+ is ideal for those creating their first wireless network, as well as for more advanced users looking for additional management settings and policy-based content filtering. Filters can be set based on MAC address, IP address, URL and/or Domain Name.

Wireless networking is a great way for sharing high speed Internet connections.   If you're looking at adding a high speed Internet connection,  DSL or cable modem is the best way. DSL of course is dependent on the distance from you to the exchange, while cable modem is dependent on your cable TV provider's offered high speed service.  Call your phone or cable provider for details on their services.

You can share your DSL/ cable modem high speed connection across several computers with a DSL/ cable modem router.

This page is all about the current range of wireless routers which allow you to share an Internet connection without having any bulky network cables around your house.

10 Tips for Choosing Your Computer Laptop and Notebook

Laptops are now handy and ultra portable, more powerful with 512 mb to 1 gb of memory. Laptops are thin, stylish and lightweight under 5 lbs. Some mobile people e.g. sales representatives and executives are opting out of desktop computers altogether and use a laptop for all their computer needs.

1. The basic rules applied when shopping for a laptop: (A) You can save a lot of money by getting a computer laptop which is not top of the line. New top of the line laptops can cost over hundreds dollars more. Do you really need the top of the line model for word processing and net surfing? (B) You can save a good chunk of money by getting computer parts at dirt cheap prices and assemble your own computer laptop... a clone computer laptop. This system is "cheap" in price but not in quality at all. You can choose the component parts from renowned components manufacturers such as Intel, AMD, Seagate, Viewsonic, Logitech. Buidling your own computer is fun. It does not need a rocket scientist to build it. (C) If building your own computer seems too much an effort for you, you can get a last year model. (D) Fourth, you can get a recertified computer systems from Dell, HP, IBM, etc.

2. Pick up the laptops at the store. Choose one that feels not too heavy, solid and sturdy.

3. Try the keyboard. Test it on a desk and on your lap. Make sure you're comfortable with its touch and responsiveness.

4. Test the pointing device, track pad or track ball, the laptop alternatives to a mouse. Make sure they are easy to handle. These built-in device should be handy when you're mobile.

5. The computer's bottom should not gets uncomfortably hot when it's running.

6. Pay attention to screen size and resolution. LCD screens on laptops measure from 12 to 17 inches diagonally. Screen resolution may be as low as 800 x 600 pixels or as high as 1600 x 1200. The more pixels, the crisper the screen image.

7. Choose a laptop with at least two USB connections. A FireWire (IEEE 1394) connection is also handy for high-speed peripherals such as CD burners.

8. Consider buying an internal wireless card and a Bluetooth adapter if you really plan to be mobile. A wireless network card (also called Wi-Fi or 802.11) will free you from having to be wired to your Internet connection Bluetooth capability will let you share information wirelessly with other Bluetooth-equipped devices, such as your cell phone or personal digital assistant.

9. Get an internal DVD player so you can watch movies on the road.

10. Get an antitheft device. Hundreds of thousands of laptops are stolen every year. Look for cables that secure the laptop to a desk. Install software that disables a stolen laptop, or better yet, reports the laptop's location when it connects to the Internet.

How To Find The Best Laptop Deals

By Titus Hoskins

Finding a special laptop deal or price is within

every shopper's reach. It's mainly knowing where to

look! Simple as that statement may sound, many people in the market for a new or used laptop don't know where to look for that special laptop or notebook deal. They simply don't know how to proceed or what steps they should take to find the laptop deals that do exist, sometimes right in they very own neighborhood.

Simple shopping tips or advice that may take 100s off the price of a new or used laptop. Most of these shopping tips or guidelines fall within the realm of common sense.

Common procedures that will reduce the price tag on your next laptop purchase.

Here's a short run down on some shopping tips you can try:

Use The Internet

Your neighborhood is the whole world. We are no longer confined to a small shopping location or area. We have the whole world at our disposal because of the Internet. Use it!

Use the Internet to find online stores, information,

special deals or offers. Use Froogle! Its a great starting point. Use online notebook guides to find the top rated laptops, many of these sites will also have special deals or links. These sites know their laptops -- use their knowledge and expertise to find the right notebook computer for you.

Comparison Shop

Perhaps, one of the best ways to get a great bargain, is to Comparison Shop to compare different products and prices. Again, the Internet is ideally designed to give you mass amounts of data and information. It makes comparison shopping

a real breeze. Use online sites like Pricerunner.com, PriceGrabber.com,

NextTag.com, Shopping.com and don't forget Google's Froogle.com!

These comparison shopping sites will list the best laptop deals and prices for you. More importantly, they will also rate the service and support given by each of these online  stores. Very important when you're buying online. Make sure you check out the store's warranties, return policies, service

records and customer ratings.

Refurbished Laptops

The real special deals are reserved for refurbished laptops.  Many times you can get a great laptop at a very reduced price by purchasing a refurbished laptop. Make sure you get a warranty or buy extra warranty, even then the price will still be worth your while. You can buy a refurbished laptop for a fraction of its original price. Check online

for sites selling refurbished laptops or check your

local dealer.

Make sure the dealer is legitimate, and watch out for stolen laptops. Be extra careful to get the needed warranties, bill of sales, etc. when buying a refurbished laptop.

Close-out Sales, Liquidation

Keep your eyes peeled for close-out, fire, and liquidation sales. Laptop technology is changing at a fast pace, many lines are discontinued to make room for newer inventory with the latest technology. Many of these close-out sales will

offer great laptops at reduced prices.

Don't Forget eBay

The shopping Mecca of the modern era; don't forget to check out eBay. You may find some very special deals. Again, make sure you check out the seller's past history.

Coupons

Mail-in rebates, coupons, online special deals -- all these offer great savings to the observant shopper. Don't buy a laptop until your have searched for coupons or discounts, special deals and the like. Dell is famous for its coupons. Don't buy a Dell Laptop without using one of these coupons.

You will save 100s off the price of your laptop.

Other notebook makers such as Toshiba, Apple, Sony... offer great online deals and discounts... search for these before you purchase your laptop.

Don't Forget To Haggle

If you're buying a laptop from your local dealer, don't always take the sticker price as gospel. Ask for a special deal, you may be pleasantly surprised at the savings. This works best with independent dealers who can offer you a special deal. If you're

a regular customer, the better the deal you should demand!

In conclusion, just use some common sense before you buy your laptop. Use the Internet to check out and comparison shop for the best laptop deals. Use coupons and mail-in rebates whenever

possible. Watch out for great close-out, or liquidation sales and don't forget to check out refurbished laptops. Last, but not least, if you get the chance, don't forget to haggle. It's a centuries old technique that still works. It may just get you

the best laptop deal.

For a whole range of Laptop Deals and Discount Coupons - Visit This Link:  

Dell Notebook Coupons

Get a Free Desktop Calendar & Planner  compliments of Titus Hoskins and DATEwise.

Copyright © 2005.

This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.

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Motherboard Installation

It is a ATX case. The first thing you should do is unpack your case. Take off the cover of your case so that you can access the inside. Place the case on a desk so that you are looking down towards the open case. Your case should come with motherboard mounting screws. Now place your motherboard on top of the mounting screw holes. Make sure your ATX devices on the motherboard such as PS/2 and parallel port are facing towards ATX back plate cut out. Gently push your motherboard towards the cut out, every devices should fit easily into its corresponding cut out, The screw holes on your motherboard should align with the screw holes on your case. Place your screws that came with the case into the appropriate holes and gently screw it on using a screw driver. Click here to continue reading

Guide To Choose Quality Personal Computers

First, you can save a lot of money by getting a computer which is not top of the line. New top of the line computers cost over a thousand dollars easily. Do you really need them for word processing and net surfing? You can save a thousand dollars here.

Second, you can save a good chunk of money by getting computer parts at dirt cheap prices and assemble your own computer. a clone computer system. This system is "cheap" in price but not in quality at all. You can choose the component parts for your own system from renowned components manufacturers such as Intel, AMD, Seagate, Viewsonic, Logitech, etc the list can go on and on, but at dirt cheap prices here. Click here to continue reading.

A Guide To Purchasing Your Next Personal Computer

By T Potter Purchasing a personal computer is no easy task. There are hundreds of features, lots of people trying to sell you the ‘perfect’ one and then there is the fact that you really don’t know what you need or want your computer to do. But, while it all may be confusing, educating yourself about personal computers before you head out looking for one is one of the best ways to get a great deal and know what you purchase is what you want and need. Here are some key tips to make the search easier. • Start your search at home. Pesky salespeople can definitely convince you that you should purchase a computer based on the dollars behind it for them. What you need to know, though, is what features mean, what the computers can do and what you want from them. All you need to do is to check out the options online. Whether you purchase online or not, you’ll be able to see a feature, click on it for more information about what it is, and then make a decision to determine if it is the right choice for you. • Personal computers are not all the same. Knowing a little about each make and model is important. If you are used to using Windows and Microsoft, you may have a harder time understanding how Apple works. Not that it is a good or bad choice, but you’ll need to get yourself updated on the various versions and systems out there. • Determine your needs. While it is nice to have a fully loaded personal computer, this is likely to break the bank. You’ll often need to choose between features and for that you need to know what you want and what you need. Analyze your needs. Do you need help managing your finances? Look to programs to help. Do you and your family spend a lot of time online? Then look for a faster modem or go with high speed. Do you need specific games, programs, or software? • Compare and compare. When it comes to personal computers, everyone has something different. Compare and know what an average price is for the system that you want. And, know what adding options on will do to that price. Look at and compare features to price as well as brands to other brands. Getting the best deal on personal computers is not hard when you are able to know what you are looking for and choose wisely. This article was written by T.Potter. You can visit Discount Computers for further information and cheap computer resources. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=T_Potter

10 Tips for Computers

By Jen Wilson 1) Memory - You can get the fastest processor out on the market, but you don't have anything until you load it up with RAM. We recommend at least 2gig (3 gig or more is better). Before buying the latest PC, consider upgrading your memory first. You will be surprised. See our electronics dictionary for information on purchasing memory. Look out for MRAM, the latest type of memory that offers the potential for instant operating system boot without the ordinary boot up process. 2) Bad pc memory - Bad RAM can cause many problems with your pc. Some symptoms include - blue screens, programs crashing, and shutdown of your computer for no apparent reason. Memory can be bad from the moment you purchase it. There is a free program called Memtest86 that can help you troubleshoot memory problems. Real easy to use. Must be on a bootable floppy or cd. 3) Static Electricity - Do not touch the hard drive (case) or monitor after walking on carpet. Good way to tear up something electronic. Try to touch something metal before putting your hands on them. Static electricity can cause catastrophic damage to a computer. If you are doing upgrade/repair work yourself, invest in a anti static wrist strap/pad. Inexpensive and well worth it. 4) Funny noises coming from computer - If you here "funny noises" coming from your PC, stop immediately. If you don't know a thing about them, call some one. It is not uncommon for fans to go out. They are inexpensive to replace, but can trash the whole system. Always insist on high quality ball bearing fans. Do not go with the cheap ones. Good quality fans will not cost more than $10. 5) CD Stuck - Ever wonder what that little bitty tiny hole on cd and disk drives was for? Stick a straightened paperclip in that hole to eject stuck cd/disks. Special note - How you format can cause the cd not to eject. 6) Video Card - Get a good one. We recommend NVIDIA with at least 128mg of built in memory. On board video (graphics card built into the motherboard) can cause lag. Onboard video cards use valuable PC resources. Put in a good video card, bypass the onboard video and notice the difference. Extremely good choice for upgrading your computer with minimal investment. Here is our article on how to replace a computer expansion card (click here). 7) New computer, break it in - We do not recommend buying extended warranties with a new computer. Why? Most of the time, if new electronic components fail, they do so fairly quickly. Leave your new PC on for two weeks without turning it off to give it a good trial/break-in period. 8) A cool browser zoom tip - If you are running Windows XP with Internet Explorer, hold the Ctrl key while moving your mouse wheel (if you have one). You can instantly zoom in or out! 9) No food or drinks - Go to the table if you want to eat or drink. Have you no manners? And say your prayers while your are there. Thank God, Jesus (click here) and the Holy Spirit for all of your blessings! God and your PC will love you for it. 10) Ergonomics - This is becoming more of a danger with more people spending more time at computers. Repetitive motion can cause carpel tunnel syndrome (swelling around nerves). Buy ergonomic keyboards (padded wrist rest are intended for resting NOT WHILE KEYING), get a good chair, and take breaks (stretch or walk around 1-2 minutes every hour). Keep your shoulders and upper arms perpendicular to the floor and relaxed. Jen Wilson maintains the site Wilsons Electronics ADT Home Security Systems. Information and tips for electronics. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jen_Wilson

How to Install Your Computer Speakers

By John Gibb In this article we will discuss installing computer speakers. When you have purchased your required computer speakers, they will normally come with a CD driver disk for installation. It is a good idea to use the CD because you will likely get a sound program which will enable you to select the best features for your speakers resulting in optimal performance. For example in one of our sound programs, we can alter bass settings, sound themes and so much more. Once we have the installation disc that comes with the computer speakers. Simply insert the CD in to your computers CD drive. You will then find a setup program load up. Hit install or English setup, or whatever is required and follow the on screen instructions. There is nothing difficult about installing computer speakers. When the setup program asks you to plug in your speakers, do so at the prompt, making sure they are powered on and ready to go. Make sure you plug the speakers wire in to the right port in the back of your computer, Although this may sound like common sense, many people plug there speakers in to the microphone slot and complain there speakers are broken, or wonder why they simply don’t work. Once the installation program is complete, you will likely need to restart your computer for the hardware and software changes to take effect and be added correctly to your computer. Once you have restarted the computer, your new computer speakers should be up and running, however you may want to go in to the sound program under programs. In here, you will be able to adjust various speakers’ settings until you get the best possible sound for your computer speakers. Once you have adjust the sound setting, try sticking on a movie or a computer game, and see if the sound is suited to your liking. It is worth spending some time getting to know your sound program so you can set different profiles for different occasions. For example, if Sunday is your day of music, then you may want to set a profile with settings specific to that. If another day is for gaming or movies, you will likely want or have different sound settings for the best sound experience for gaming or movies. Be sure to check out our website below for everything relate to computer speakers. We offer the latest news and articles relating to computer speakers. John Gibb is the owner of Computer Spekers sources For more information on computer speakers check out http://www.Computer-speakers-sources.info Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Gibb

Guide to Choose Cheap Computer Speakers

Here's my guide to the current range of computer speakers. If you listen to music, play games or watch DVD movies on your computer you are probably in the market for a good set of computer speakers.

There is a massive range of computer speakers out there but as with anything you get what you pay for. If you just want some sounds to accompany your game then you can get a pair of speakers for under $10 that will fill the role nicely.

I like these speakers because they are powered via a USB cable and don't have a separate power adaptor.I really hate those bulky power adaptors because they look messy and even use power when you aren't using the device!

I like the fact they have a headphone socket so you don't have to climb being your computer when you want to plug in your headphones. These computer speakers look good in black and I wouldn't mind them on my desk.

For just over $10 you can get these cool linking flat panel computer speakers. The are a bit more powerful and would suit you if you occasionally listen to music.

The one drawback of these speakers is that they use an external power adaptor.

Do you want good quality sound?

Unfortunately small speaker sizes cannot give you good rumbling bass or even the best high range sounds. Some games really sound good with big thumping bass for gunshots and explosions.

Take a look at this 3 piece speaker setup. Having a separate bass speaker means the other two speakers are free to produce better quality mid and high range sound.

This is an attractive looking setup that will give you great sound for both music and games.

DVD movies/ games and surround sound. If you have the space available for a surround sound setup then I recommend you get this Dolby 5.1 system by Creative Labs.

This speaker setup is by far the cheapest way to get full Pro Logic surround sound from your computer. It has 5 speakers and a sub woofer to totally immerse you in your movie or game.

To get the most out of this system you also need Creative Labs SoundBlaster sound card. These cards are cheap and often come as standard equipment in a lot of computers.

The SoundBlaster also supports EAX which is an absolutely amazing surround sound system for games. If you want to hear the bad guys creeping up on you in games EAX is by far the best surround sound experience.

With the Inspire full surround speaker setup you will have the best gaming and movie watching experience possible.

I've heard an EAX demonstration in Jedi Knight and it sounded incredible.

Final thoughts The best way to get the right speaker system for you is simply to have a good think about your requirements. Surround systems are great but you need space to put the rear speakers and room on the floor for the sub woofer.

In the end if you only need a little sound then go right ahead and pick up a set of cheap computer speakers. They won't take up much room and won't break the bank.

Click here for more Computers Hardware Tips

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Computer Speakers

7 Barebones Computer Buying Tips

By Peter Stewart Getting a new computer should be a cool thing, especially a cheap computer. After all that time struggling with you old machine, probably fighting with it to get the latest software to run, your new computer should be a ray of light for your computing future. Oh, if it were that simple. If things were really that easy or simple when buying a cheap computer, life would be much easier, but just like every other thing, its not that simple. Barebones computers have become extremely popular, and for good reason. Getting a barebones computer which does not include a monitor and comes with the bear minimum of parts makes them an upgradable, practical and cheap computer. But not all things are rosy in barebones computer land... 1. Missing parts Although barebones computers do come with the essential pieces, most people need at least one or two extras for their day to day barebones system. This is simply due to different applications people use them for. Don't get caught missing that extra part from your barebones system that you then need to get later. You still need to do some homework and research to find out what you really need from your barebones system. 2. Super cheap computer deals Beware, many corners can be cut to get those sub $200 dollar barebones systems. They can be great, but not always, carefully analyse the components of the package. Also remember that a barebones system couldn't possibly include a monitor for that price, which adds a lot to the price. 3. Mismatched parts This could become a problem if building your own computer, but it even happens in pre-assembled barebones computer deals. There is a chance that you get something that doesn't fit with the barebones system. There are lots of different connections and speed ratings between parts. Make sure the ones you get match up to the other parts and your needs. Although not common, incompatibilities between parts are not unheard of. 4. Outdated components To get super-cheap deals older parts are sometimes used in cheap computers. Although this can be a great cost-saver and some old parts are fantastic, there is nearly no chance of an upgrade without putting a major amount of money into your barebones computer again, perhaps as much if not probably more than you paid for your great deal. 5. Defective parts Although this is another one that has gotten better as the competition has gotten stronger, there is a chance of defects in cheaper products. Your motherboard could be faulty, your power supply might give up after a month or two. These may not be intentional problems, but come hand in hand with "cheap computer stuff". 6.Refurbished computer parts Refurbished computer parts are a great way to save some money. Not always the biggest saver, but there can be problems with the updates to these computers in much the way as mismatches happen in barebones systems. Often the computer is slightly updated to meet needs, but is really quite an old model, just with upgrades. Can be fine, but the parts they replace might be replaced with something newer but inferior. 7. Claims of great warranty To try and entice you into feeling safe, offers of long warranties are made. Most of the parts in the computer could have past their warranty dates, so the warranties are purely from the company that put the computer together. They can be hard to contact and take their time to get replacements to you as well as expect you to mail the computer to them so that they can do the repairs. Barebones computers can be a great way to put together a second computer, build a computer for simple purposes, like writing documents and casual web surfing. Barebones fit perfectly as a second computer. Just keep these things in mind and you won't get bitten by the bargain bin monster. Get the most honest and useful reviews to make the right choice at our Desktop Computer Hardware Reviews site or get practical computer buying tips at our Computer Buying Guide site Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Stewart