What You Should Know About Cleaning Your Computer

What a lot of computer owners don't realize is how important it is to keep your computer clean. Cleaning your computer is almost all the time considered not to be a priority of any computer owner. Why? I have to believe that it's lack of knowledge. In other words not a full understanding what the fuse is all about.
A computer is a very delicate piece of equipment. The computer works hard to entertain you, and serve your bidding. While your computer is doing all this it is running or is turned on. When the computer is on, all the components inside of the computer are working causing the computer to get hot. Depending on what you are doing on your computer at any given time, will in a lot of cases depend on how hot the computer will get.
Cooling is a very important part of your computer system. If your computer gets to hot things start to happen, bad things. Things that you don't really don't want going on inside your computer. In other words computer components will brake or burnt out. This will render them useless. Meaning they will have to be replaced.
The biggest cooling threat to all computers is dust. When a computer is on the components inside the computer are electrically charged. It's the electrically charged components that attract the dust in side of your computer. What happens when you leave the dust unattended in side your computer? It will build up on the computer components, and especially the computer processor heat sink. When the dust builds up on the computer components, they can no longer breathe or circulate the much needed cooler air that allows computer components to cool down. If your computer components can not cool down they will simply break down.
You should try and get the most you can out of your computer. You can increase your chances of achieving that goal with a simple cleaning. I recommend a good cleaning at least once a month. This would also depend on your environment. The reason why I recommend cleaning the inside of the computer once a month is that it makes the cleaning job easier by decreasing the dust build up inside the computer.

A Small Business Approach To Computer Downtime

The muscle of a modern small business

If it's true that the backbone of any small business is its employees, then I believe it's fair to say that the muscle of many small businesses would have to be their computers. Plain and simple, business today is performed electronically. Whether it's a day-trader trading stocks over the internet, a lawyer, physician or other professional looking up data, or a shopkeeper tracking prices and sales, computers are often an essential "tool of their trades".In fact, in the majority of professions where a computer is used, it is often not possible to effectively perform the job role without it. Sure the day-trader could continuously call their broker every five minutes for stock quotes, but in practical terms their business is reduced to a standstill. An analogy would be a carpenter trying to work without his hammer.
However, when you consider complexity, comparing a PC to a hammer is kind of like comparing a space shuttle to a bicycle. The average computer is a marvel of complexity. In fact, when we break it down, we're not even talking about a single device. Computer systems are made up of a collection of hardware and software components, usually made by different manufacturers, working together for a common purpose. And it follows simple logic; the more complex the system, the more that can go wrong. All it often takes for a business to come grinding to a halt is for one of those components to malfunction.
Computer downtime can result from numerous circumstances. Viruses and spyware are waiting to infect your PC through the internet, email and even commonly used applications. Internet hacking, identity theft and other cyber crimes are all on the rise. Compatibility issues and missing or corrupt drivers plague both hardware and software alike. And problems with the installation and use of everyday programs can cause no end of headaches.
While the above points can raise a number of questions in the average small businesspersons mind around the costs associated with these downtimes and what can be done to minimize them, straight answers are often not easily found. In this article, we will attempt to analyze these questions and determine the best approach for professionals and small businesses to take in dealing with computer downtime.
Options for dealing with downtime
Questions surrounding downtime related costs have become such a hot topic on the Internet that an online calculator has been developed by NTA Monitor Ltd. to assist individuals and companies in determining the cost of computer downtime (You can try it out at http://www.nta-monitor.com/services/downtimecalc.htm). While this calculator can be quite handy, it is often not readily apparent what numbers to use for "total downtime" or "labor costs". So lets just do some calculations of our own to determine the total overall costs that a professional or small business faces due to downtime and see if we can determine the best approach to resolving downtime related incidents.
The first and hardest question to answer is "how long is an average downtime incident for a small business?" Well, I'm afraid that there is no easy answer to this. While the average time is completely dependent on the nature of the problem, for this example we can piece together a typical scenario of events to create our timeframe.
When a typical computer issue or problem arises, there are a number of avenues that a small business owner can take to see it resolved. As most small businesses can obviously not afford to pay for a full or even part-time IT staff, the "do it yourself" method is often first employed. Resources such as friends, family and the internet are consulted for answers and some trial and error approaches, such as using generic "fix all" programs, are tried. That failing, a local computer service shops can be called for on-site or drop-off support. Or as a new and increasingly popular alternative, a remote service provider can be used.
Depending on the user's knowledge of computers, the "do it yourself" approach can sometimes work and considering the time spent doing research, trial and error fixes, etc. the average issue can be resolved in as little a an hour or two. But sadly, more often than not, the time spent does not result in a solution and it is added to the overall incident time. So to make our calculations simpler, let's deduce that on average the amount of self help time spent saves as much time as it looses and instead we will focus on three remaining options; on-site, drop-off and remote support. We will base our calculations on an eight hour work day.
While being a more expensive option, on-site services can often result in a quicker resolution time than drop-off service. Usually a technician can be scheduled for "same day" or "next day" service. On average this results in a total downtime of around eight hours.
A small business can save some money on the hourly rate it is charged by choosing to drop off their PC for service instead of having a technician come to them. While some service depots have longer waiting lists that result in the business owner losing their PC for numerous days or even weeks, shopping around for service usually results in an average turn around time of two to three days. Factoring in the time spent disconnecting and reconnecting your system, as well as the time spent dropping it off and picking it up, it's reasonable to say that the average downtime for drop-off service is in the neighborhood of 24 business hours.
Finally, there is a lesser known option for small businesses that has grown out of advances in "desktop sharing" technologies. Professional remote computer service and support technicians can access computers directly through their internet connections to resolve computer issues.
Michael Hovila, the owner of AdvanceServe Remote PC Services ([http://www.remotepcservices.com]) informs us that "remote computer repair and support services are available to any computer that is connected to the Internet, anywhere in North America; It can be from home or business, a hotel suite or while telecommuting, or even through local wireless 'hotspots'. We can even connect though your home or corporate firewall... Then just sit back and watch as our remote technician controls your mouse and keyboard to diagnose and fix your computer problems or to demonstrate how to use or configure common applications."
The hourly rate for remote support usually falls somewhere between that of local drop off and onsite service rates, while the downtime is reduced to an average of two hours per incident as a result of not having to wait for service. However, not all issues can be resolved remotely. Physical problems such as hardware failures still need to be dealt with by a "hands on" technician.
Calculating the costs
So which option is best for the small business owner? Let's do some quick and simple math to find out. Based on average "resolution time" claims from numerous sources, I have decided to use two hours as the mean resolution time for these calculations.
For onsite service, rates are charged either on a "per hour" or "per incident" basis. Since we are calculating "per hour", I compared the rates of four leading national on-site service providers and worked out an average of $100 US/hour for onsite support. So the total cost for a two hour service call ends up being $200.
Next we examine the cost of the drop-off service option. Prices in this category vary a little more depending on the service provider but a comparison of two national providers and two "mom and pop" local service depots resulted in an average hourly rate of $60 US per hour. Based on our two hour resolution time the labor cost for this option is $120.
Finally there is the remote support option. An average comparison of four trusted national providers resulted in a rate of $80 per hour. For a two hour resolution time the total cost is $160.
But we're not done yet. Now we have to factor in the loss of wages that has resulted from the down time. 2003 Bureau of Labor statistics suggest that individuals who use computers for a living make an average of $36.20 an hour in wages and benefits. So using that figure as the "per hour" loss due to downtime for a single computer, we can calculate and compare the total cost of downtime for each of our three timelines.
Option One - Onsite Service
Total Downtime: 8 hours
Lost wages: $36.20x8=$289.60
Cost of Service: $200
Total Cost of Downtime: $489.60 per PC
Option Two - Drop Off Service
Total Downtime: 20 hours
Lost Wages: $36.20x20=$724
Cost of Service: $120
Total Cost of Downtime: $844 per PC
Option Three - Remote Service
Total Downtime: 2 hours
Lost Wages: $36.20x2=$72.40
Cost of Service: $160
Total Cost of Downtime: $232.40 per PC
Well, based on total costs the hands down choice appears to be "Remote Computer Support". However, there are a couple additional factors that should be examined a little closer before making a final decision. As mentioned earlier, remote support has its limitations. The primary two being, the issue cannot be fixed remotely if it is a result of a physical problem with a component, and the computer being serviced must have working internet access.
To determine how the first limitation factors in, we need to determine what percentage of computer problems are hardware vs. software related. Vendor data shows that software issues are actually 40 times more common than hardware issues. Therefore, in theory, when the computer can still boot up and access the internet, around 97% of problems can be solved remotely.
The best approach
I now believe we have enough data to make a well rounded decision regarding the best approach for professionals and small businesses when dealing with computer downtime.
Step Zero: The reason I've added a "step zero" is that an age old saying still applies to modern problems; an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Take the time to have routine computer maintenance performed on your PC. There are a number of great "self help" guides to keeping your PC running smoothly. Or consider signing up for a routine maintenance plan by a professional remote provider if you are either not comfortable with, or do not have the time to maintain your own computers. But no amount of maintenance can prevent the inevitable, so when downtime does occure...
Step one: If you are reasonably knowledgeable in computers and you can still access the internet, it can't hurt to take a few minutes to search online or with your peers for answers. If the answer is not apparent within fifteen minutes of searching, there is a good chance the solution is not simple enough for the average computer user to solve and professional assistance should be considered.
Step two: To save time and money, your next best step is to try a remote service provider. They can often resolve your issue quickly and get you back to making money instead of spending it. Even though they cannot resolve physical problems, you will still come out much farther ahead on average by trying a remote technician first.
Step three: In the few cases where the issue ends up being hardware related, your next best choice would be the onsite provider. Many remote providers have local affiliates who they can recommend you to and can provide you with diagnostic information to pass on to the local technician, which may reduce the required support time.
Addendum: Since this article was first published, I have received a number of emails asking for my recommendations on the best choice for computer support providers in each of the areas I covered. So as requested, here are my choices for the top national providers. Please note that the following choices are simply based on my own research and experience:
Recommended Remote Provider:
AdvanceServe Remote PC Services
[http://www.remotepcservices.com]
1-877-87SERVE
Recommended On-Site Provider:
CompUSA Technical Services
http://www.compusa.com/tech_services/techknowledgist_mobile.asp
1-800-COMPUSA
Recommended Drop-Off Provider:
CompUSA Technical Services
http://www.compusa.com/tech_services/instore_services.asp
1-800-COMPUSA
From downtime to uptime
Computers are an essential part of most modern small businesses but when problems occur, the costs associated with them can quickly spiral out of control. However, a quick and well thought out response to computer downtime can save a small business hundreds or even thousands of dollars. I hope this guide will help you to be better prepared when your downtime comes because it's not a matter of if; it's a matter of when.

Aidan McDermott has a Degree in Information Systems and runs a small computer consulting firm. He enjoys writing technology based freelance articles in his spare time.

Computers and the Internet have come a long way since their inception. Living in the computer age means adapting to new technologies as they evolve. The ease and speed of communication that computer technology provides allows us to be more productive in every facet of our lives. That technology requires skilled computer professionals to design, maintain, and implement it.
What is it?
Computer training is divided into specialties including:
o Computer hardware
o Computer software
o Computer networking
o Web Development
Computer hardware refers to the actual physical components that comprise computers (processors, modems, keyboards, motherboards etc). Computer hardware engineers design, develop and maintain computer hardware. They may oversee the installation and manufacture of hardware. Due to the constant flux of the industry, continued education is required to keep up with trends and technology.
Computer software refers to the content that makes a computer work. Software is divided into three categories: Platform (such as operating systems i.e. Windows, Linux, and Macintosh OSX), Applications (Microsoft Office, games), and User-Written (templates, plug-ins, extensions). Computer software engineers, like their hardware counterparts, are required to continually learn new skills in conjunction with developing technology.
Computer networking refers to communication between a group or groups of computers. This includes LAN-local area network, MAN-metropolitan area network and WAN-wide area network. Computer network engineers work with software and hardware integration across a system of computers and servers. They deal with computer-to-computer interface and connect users to each other via private as well as public networks.
Web development refers to the building and implementation of websites (design, programming, server configuration) - Web page design is a subset that deals with user interface design, graphics, html and CSS (cascading style sheets). Web page designers are behooved to have good art skills as they will most likely be dealing with graphics, layout and Flash applications.
Why do it?
Other than the obvious passion for computers and technology, salary and job growth potential are excellent reasons to consider computer careers. Diversity of computer skills adds to marketability in the workforce. Many employers do not have time to train workers on basic skills and expect employees to be more than familiar with computers.
Who should do it?
If you have an aptitude or interest in math, science or art, and have strong problem solving and analytical skills you are a perfect candidate for a computer related career. Computer careers can be solitary work, but often require good communication skills. Systems administrators must know how to relay information to clients and coworkers in order to maintain order and efficiency in the system.
Education is available in many varieties; from certifications, certificate programs, associate's degree programs, bachelor's and even master's degree programs. Many professionals receive degrees in computer science and related fields, but still others are required to have specific certifications (for example MCSE-Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer or MCSA-Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator). Many industries do not require these specific certifications, only knowledge and experience of computer systems. When making a decision about education, research the jobs that interest you and find out just what the employers are looking for in a candidate. Why spend four years working on a bachelor's degree when a shorter certificate program may be all you need?
Where can I find out more?
For more information on careers, training, and working conditions see the Occupational Outlook handbook at the US Bureau of Labor Statistics site.

7 Barebones Computer Buying Tips

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.

Getting Acquainted with Notebook Computers

Not so long ago notebook computers were expensive, heavy and reserved for a small portion of computer users, no longer. Today’s notebooks are lighter, less expensive and can be as fully featured as their stuck on your desk counterparts. A little knowledge can be helpful if you are considering making the leap to the convenience of a portable computer.
What are your computer needs? Notebook computers, sometimes referred to as laptop computers, just like desktop computers can be configured for a variety of purposes. Will you be using your notebook primarily for business? If so, are you heavily into word processing or spreadsheets or is your work directed toward graphics? Do you need to be connected to the internet for research and/or communication? Maybe you want a notebook mainly to enjoy games or movies? Make an inventory of your computer use priorities, such a list will help you determine which notebook computer is right for you.
Once you have ascertained what you want out of a notebook computer it’s time to make a list of the options your machine will need.
* Processors and RAM – A 20 gigabyte hard drive and an Intel Pentium Mobile processor with 2.8 gigahertz of speed will handle the needs of most computer users quite well. Gamers will need at least 526 megabytes of RAM. If you will be opening large files or having several files open at once you might want to consider a full gig of RAM.
* Screen size – A 13 inch screen with a resolution of 1024 x 768 should do the trick for most notebook computer users. Notebook users who are mainly interested in gaming or movie watching or professionals using graphics programs will probably want as large a screen as possible and may want to add a graphics card.
* Weight – If you are on the go, constantly in and out of your vehicle or on and off a plane and always carrying your computer an ultra light notebook computer may be best for you. Ultra lights can be pricey and you may have to give up a few features or settle for a smaller screen. Standard laptops weighing in at four to five pounds are more moderately priced and can have larger screens and more options.
* Ports, drives and bays – Portability and storage will all be enhanced by choosing a notebook computer with at least two ports. USB and Ethernet are pretty much essential. Expansion bays for CD-ROMS, DVDs and an extra battery should also be considered.
* Keyboard – The keyboard on a notebook computer can be confusing, even downright annoying, for someone used to any of the standard desktop computer configurations. Most laptop keyboards will be smaller and have the mouse integrated into the center. Learning to operate a mouse with your index finger can be exasperating. Look into buying an external mouse as well.
* Battery – Finding out your battery is dead when you’re in your seat on the airplane renders the most expensive notebook computer worthless. Investing in a good Lithium Ion battery is worth the extra cost. Don’t forget the more hardware and software you have up and running the shorter your battery’s life will be.
Finally, while online notebook computer shopping certainly takes some of the hassle out of buying, nothing beats a hands-on demonstration. Comparison shop a few models via the internet then test drive them at your local computer dealer. Rest the notebook computer on your lap after it has been running for at least twenty minutes. Is it comfortable or does it run hot? Type in the old standby “quick brown fox” sentence to see how the keyboard feels to your fingers. Look at the screen from a variety of angles. Open the software programs you use the most. Do they openly quickly and smoothly?
Notebook computers [http://www.maryvillepress.com/category/computing-tips] can be handy tools which offer solutions for both work and play. However, be sure to take the time to explore your needs and the solutions that a notebook computer can supply before making the purchase plunge.

Dell Computer Dominates the Marketplace

About three out of five households in America have computers today, compared with almost no one having them just 25 years ago. And if you don't have a computer at home, you probably have access to one at work, at school, or at the public library. Computers are everywhere! And it's Dell Computers that has more places than anywhere else.
There is probably a Dell computer store near you; almost every electronics store that sells computers sells Dells. Finding a Dell computer for sale on the Internet is as easy as typing a few words. You can even find Dell computer coupons with a little bit of luck and know-how. (Not that you need them: Dell computers are among the most inexpensive on the market.)
The Dell computer corporation, headquartered in Round Rock, Texas, offers everything from servers to laptops, printers to workstations, all with round-the-clock customer service, too. Fortune magazine called Dell America's "most admired" company.
If you're in the market for a new computer, you can visit a retailer that sells Dell computers (or even Dell refurbished computers), or you can visit Dell directly on the Internet. The company's Web site will walk you through the process of choosing the Dell desktop computer or a notebook computer that will work best for you.
Businesses large and small can rely on Dell computers, too, with servers, storage and all the other necessary components. Most of their business services are scalable -- they can be made larger or smaller depending on the need of the particular business.
But it's not all work and no play at Dell. Dell computers are excellent for gaming, too, with a system called XPS, the latest in gaming technology. Dell sells all the accessories and components you'd need -- there's even a mouse and keyboard designed especially for game players!
You may wonder whether it's a desktop computer or laptop computer you need. Either way, Dell computers can help you, but which is right for you? Consider your needs. Do you travel a lot, either for business or personal reasons? Do you often have to take work home with you from the office? If so, a Dell notebook computer may be what you need. On the other hand, if most of your work is conducted at a desk (or at home), a regular desktop computer may do the job.
And what about printers? Dell makes those, too, in a variety of configurations to suit your needs, from as low as $74. Many businesses need highly advanced printers capable of color prints and collating; Dell has printers that also serve as fax machines and photocopiers. For home use (or home business use), there are less advanced, less expensive models that still offer premium quality in conjunction with your Dell computer.
The Dell computer corporation was founded by Michael Dell, who began selling IBM-compatible computers while still a student at the University of Texas at Austin in 1984. The next year, the company produced the first computer of its own design, and Michael Dell had to drop out of school to handle the business -- which made $6 million that year. By 1999, Dell had become the largest seller of personal computers in America. Dell computers [http://www.fairviewjournal.com/category/computing-tips] lost the title briefly in 2002, then regained it. It remains on top today.
Dell is building a new assembly plant in North Carolina. It has customer call centers in Edmonton, Canada, and Manila, Philippines, handling calls from the company's millions of computer customers. Wherever you are, and whatever you need, Dell can help you.

5 Desktop Computer Hardware Myths Exposed

The big boys in the computer industry want you to continue thinking the way you are. The major desktop computer manufacturers thrive on consumers lack of knowledge and old ideas about desktop computers and computer hardware to drive sales of new desktop computers.
It works in their favor to keep these myths alive, because their business depends on it. So what are they?
Myth 1: You need top of the line computer hardware
Maybe some years ago this might have been true with older computer hardware, but times have changed. When computers were much slower than they are now, the latest version of any computer hardware increased speeds noticeably and allowed new possibilities from your desktop computer.
Those increases from computer hardware no longer yield such a huge increase in performance. With the basic uses of the desktop computer set and been in place for a while now, speed increases no longer result in real world benefits for most desktop computer users.
What was great computer hardware last year is still good enough now.
Myth 2: Computer hardware is the domain of Geeks
When personal computing was coming into its own, you really did need to be a Geek to know what was happening. For those old enough to remember, imagine life without Windows and hacking away at the command line, as used to be the case. Some still do, but I wouldn't want to do that again.
Desktop computers are such commonplace that the basics of computer hardware can be understood and researched with the minimum of hassle. The ball is on the consumers side of the court. You no longer need to be a geek, just a little knowledge that is now readily available.
Myth 3: A faster desktop computer will speed up the Internet
Possibly. If you are running 5-year-old computer hardware this might be the case. But the real reason for the increase in speed is usually not the computer.
Internet speed is related to your connection speed. If you have a dial up connection, it's going to be quite slow. When you upgrade your desktop computer and they throw in a cable internet, or DSL package the improved speed is from the faster connection, not the computer. Both cable and DSL can offer more than 10 times the speed of a dial-up connection. The computer has little to do with it.
Myth 4: To speed your computer up, upgrade!
New computer hardware is a very obvious way to speed things up. Even I have gone for new parts purely for this reason.
But it's definitely not the only way.
Various factors play into overall speed. On a purely physical level, upgrading memory is still a fantastic way to get things to move along a little faster. But apart from this the main things that slows things down on the programs and other stuff you have on the computer.
Over time, as more programs are put on and taken off and changed, things get left behind, and things get forgotten. When your computer starts, many things get loaded into memory and each one of those takes that little bit more of the computers resources. When you switch to a new program and don't remove the old one, the older one will still use resources.
Myth 5: Big brands are the best
Big brands essentially piece together a computer. They pick and choose the pieces to make a computer package. They also choose some software, give a warranty and then sell it to you.
Dell computer company has become well known for its customer service. This is the best part about Dell computers. The downside is there are limited choices. They pick what goes into the computer, which are often quite expensive parts. They are motivated by the suppliers to put more recent parts into their computers, keeping the prices at the same level and maintaining the "to get more, pay more," mentality.
You don't have the power of these big guys, but you have something more. Choice.
Your pick of parts for your desktop computer will allow you to put together something completely tailored to your needs. Put the money where you need it most, into the computer hardware that makes the biggest difference to you, and in the end getting a desktop computer you will fall in love with, rather than despise.