TV as a computer monitor.
Nowadays, everything has become easier and convenient through computers, from performing business to connecting the entire TV set to the computer for efficiency and convenience. A lot of people use computers more than the usual TV sets and Stereo systems for entertainment. They use their computers to watch their favorite TV channels, DivX movies and videos and all this can be possible for you too by connecting your TV to the computer.
For connecting your TV to the computer the first thing to be considered is whether your PC configuration is compatible to your television video format or not. If your PC configuration is not compatible with your television video format, you will need to find out ways to make your system compatible with the TV video format and that your system has to meet certain requirements.
- Requirements needed for Computer:
Your computer must have an installed video card with a TV-Out connector. This card will be located at the backside of your system. This card will also be available at the back of a laptop. This TV-Out connector is a cable that will connect both the systems together and link them to each other. This cable can indicate both the lines which come-in and go-out so mind well that you plug in the TV set out from your PC. Apart from this you will also require a Line-In for the sound card from your TV to PC.
- Requirements for your TV set:
The same kind of connector stated above will be stored inside your TV set, TV-IN or Video-In connector. Here, you will have to buy a Line-Out connector of the soundcard. If you fail to get the correct connector for your TV, you can use a VCR or a round connector that resembles an antenna. With the help of the VCR-Out can easily hook your TV to the VCR channels. The next step is to change the configuration of your computer so that it runs all the TV channels and Videos without any obstructions. Windows users will have to change their Windows settings so that the process of connecting the TV and computer can be completed without any mishaps. To do this you need to go on the desktop, right click, go to Properties, Menu-Select TV output. Change the resolution from 800*600.
Let’s know some more ways to link up your TV to Computer:
- VGA – For HDTV, the better option to connect the TV to computer is the VGA cable. It can give you a hone and better quality video on your computer. It is extremely simple and easy to use on top of being cheap and economical. If you have a regular TV this port can be found in your TV, but if you have a HDTV, you need to purchase this cable to connect your TV to computer easily.
- DVI - Digital Visual Interface, this cable once attached will give a top-notch picture with encouraged digital quality. Your computer should have a DVI connection and your TV has to be an HDTV for this connection.
Photo Credits: tomeppy
Originally posted 2010-04-09 03:32:17.
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Posted by How To Computer on January 27, 2012 in
Computer Tips, Device Hookups
What is important for you in a computer?
Let’s be honest, not all of us have the money to go out and spend on a brand new computer, right? Used computers can be very appealing, but is there anything you should worry about when buying a used computer? The answer is yes. Some used computers may have just been opened accidentally in a facility and marked as used, others however, may be stolen, broken, or have some underlying fault that may not be initially visible.
Why is it used, really?
This question may seem silly, as it appears to be one of those implied obvious questions, but the seller may not tell you if you don’t ask. It’s not even ludicrous to ask them to boot the computer up right in front of you. It’s important to ask details such as this because many used computers don’t come with warranties, and if the seller can get the computer out of his hands, than he’s not responsible, nor will he care if it’s broken or if it’s not. Perhaps the CPU was overheating, this problem wouldn’t be displayed until after you had already purchased the computer and used it for a while. This is why it’s always important for the buyer to check and to double check with the company that the computer is ready for use again.
Computer Specs
This is really important no matter what, whether the computer is used or new. Always make sure you check the essentially specs and make sure that they’re up to snuff with your standards. Most casual users need only to have a good processor speed and preferably over 2 gigabytes of ram. If you’re a power or multimedia user you may also want to check the video card and make sure that extra USB plugs and other features are readily available. It’s always important, though, to keep your range of specs in perspective. If you’re a casual user, don’t pay for a more expensive computer with features that you will not need.
Is This Computer Stolen?
Quality and your needs aren’t the only things to check when purchasing a used computer. It’s also important that you question if this computer is genuine, or that all of the parts inside of it were obtained by legal means. It’s very easy for companies and people to steal parts and plant them into a computer to make a cheap profit. This could unintentionally get you into legal trouble, which is the last thing that you want to happen.
Remember when buying a new computer that it’s most important that you verify the authenticity of the computer and that it meets the needs that you require. Don’t be afraid to ask the essential questions, or to demand proof that it’s fully functioning or genuine.
Photo Credits: Pacfolly
Originally posted 2009-12-02 03:18:08.
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Posted by How To Computer on January 26, 2012 in
Computer and Gadget Shopping
Zoning out while defragging.
When you buy a brand new computer these days, you will instantly be able to enjoy quickly loading web pages, opening multiple programs at once, and the fact that you rarely need to reboot your system. Yes, new computers are great. However, no matter what features your computer has, the fast and efficient work your PC or laptop does will not last very long.
This is due to everyday tasks people carry out on their computer. Every day tasks include examples such as these--installing essential programs, receiving and sending emails, cluttered spam inboxes, saving favorite websites, adding shortcuts to desktops, uploading and downloading pictures and files, sharing music, playing games, watching movies, and so much more.
Although you want to have a fast computer again, you certainly do not want to restore it to its factory settings. However, it is possible to make more space and optimize your computer without resorting to extreme measures. As long as you make optimizing your computer system a regular habit by carrying out the tasks listed below, your computer should stay in excellent operating shape.
Disk Cleanup
In order to run a disk cleanup on your computer, you must click the "Start" button on the lower left-hand corner of your screen. There you will see "All Programs" and subsequently, "Accessories." In the "Accessories" file, choose "System Tools" and finally, "Disk Cleanup." You will then be shown files that can be removed as well as the option to compress old files, which will save hard drive space. Once your hard drive has been cleaned, select the tab "More Options." This tab allows you to removed unused programs, clean the components of Windows, and remove older restore points.
Disk Defragmenting
The disk defragmenting option can also be found in "System Tools." This program will clean file fragments that are left from installing and uninstalling various computer programs as well as moving files. Select the drive you want to defragment and click "Analyze" followed by "Defragment."
Needed Software
Every computer owner must absolutely install antivirus software. There are many great options to choose from, so do your research and find the best one for your needs. Although you can probably use the software for free to scan your computer, you will have to buy the it in order to protect your computer from threats. After you install the antivirus software of your choice, make sure you set it up to automatically update itself; this will give you the most protection.
Registry Cleaning
Whenever files and programs are removed, installed, or moved, there are errors created in the registry and these errors are many times responsible for a computer's slow performance. Cleaning the registry is also important to the overall functioning, performance, and stability of your computer. However, a computer's registry is a complex area that no novice should tinker with. This is why it is vital to buy a registry cleaning program to do the work for you. All you need to do is a little comparison shopping first.
Photo Credits: sfllaw
Originally posted 2010-05-26 03:42:44.
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Posted by How To Computer on January 26, 2012 in
Computer Performance and Tech Support, Computer Programs and Software, Computer Tips, hard drive, Registry
Overclocking Preparations
Every computer has an internal clock speed which is used to properly synchronize the calculations and operations happening within a computer. In general hertz is the measure of clock speed, however the measurement used to refer to the clock speed in a computer is represented in megahertz (MHz) or in gigahertz (GHz). A hertz is generally a tick per second, which implies that one megahertz is equivalent to a million ticks per second. You need to be cautious while overclocking your system; else your system may be damaged. Here are a few points that help you in overclocking your computer.
Have your tools such as the needle nose pliers, screwdrivers, cooling hardware, motherboard manual, etc. Find out whether you can adjust the motherboard in BIOS setup with the help of jumpers or not. Before even attempting to overclock your system, find out the limitations of the motherboard's clock speed. Run all the applications of Windows and any other third-party diagnostic applications and fix all the system problems. Make sure to take back up of all the data present on your system, right from the documents, applications to all the important data. If you have a motherboard that can be BIOS adjusted, then refer to your motherboard manual and follow the steps mentioned there.
Start the process of overclocking your system by shutting it down. Do not remove the plug from the power outlet. Ensure that all the peripheral devices are disconnected from the system. Then remove the cover of the chassis. Next, ground yourself with the computer using any professional equipment for grounding or you can even do it by touching any of the metal part of the chassis. Find out if your motherboard has adjustable jumpers, if yes then try to find those jumpers which control the speed of the CPU. Using the needle nose pliers, try to change the settings of the jumper.
Refer to the manual of the motherboard and move the jumpers to the positions as indicated in the manual to achieve the preferred clocking speed. If you do not have access to a manual, then you can always refer online manuals to find the relevant information. If possible and needed, try to install a specialty cooling fan, a heat sink compound and a CPU heat sink. Then assemble back your system and attach back all the peripheral attachments. Reboot the system.
In case the system does not reboot even when the CPU is working, then try repeating the above mentioned steps and lower the clock speed. Check the system again. Even if this does not help, then reset the clock speed to the original speed. If everything functions properly then verify all the functions and try running a program that is extremely CPU intensive. You can notice the change in the performance of the system. If your system is extremely slow and making your life miserable, try overclocking it.
Photo Credits: Axel Bührmann
Originally posted 2010-05-20 03:42:04.
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Posted by How To Computer on January 25, 2012 in
Computer Performance and Tech Support, Computer Tips, hard drive
Computer Speakers
Connecting speakers to a computer might look like a very complicated process to someone who has not done it before, but it really is a piece of cake. Learn how to connect your computer speakers with the following steps:
1. Shut down the computer. You can do that by going to the menu options and clicking on the ‘shut down’ option.
2. Connect the power supply cable. You will do this to the speaker which has a power supply unit in it. Connect the other end to an outlet.
3. Plug in the other speaker into the one which has the power supply. Sometimes all these connections are already hardwired. If so, skip this step.
4. Take the power supply speaker and connect it to the sound card. You will find it at the back of your computer. Most personal computers will have a mini jack option for it and it will be clearly labeled if your does.
5. Now position the speakers. You can keep the speakers close to the system or keep the speakers wide apart or scattered depending on the length of the speaker cable. Choose whatever option works best for you.
6. Turn on the speakers to make them work. Then restart the computer. Once loaded pick something, like a song to play, and double-check that your speakers are working properly.
This checking process would not only help you test the speakers on the functioning parameters but will also give you a check on the capacity of the speakers volume and also the clarity of the audio. If you think that there is something wrong or if you’re not really satisfied with the performance of the speakers, recheck the settings of the speaker. If that does not work then you might need to buy a completely new set of speakers.
Photo Credits: mmoo
Originally posted 2010-05-15 03:06:44.
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Posted by How To Computer on January 25, 2012 in
Computer Tips, Device Hookups, Speakers
Why buy a Mac?
Mac computers are some of the most reliable machines on the market today, gaining popularity due to the fact that they’re essentially virus proof amidst being cool to look at. There are more reasons to buy a Mac computer other than the fact that it is aesthetically pleasing however. This article will outline a few reasons why buying a Mac is well worth your money.
Virus Resistant
Mac computers run on Apple’s OSX OS which is a UNIX system. This makes Apple machines practically immune to all viruses and trojans that the internet can throw at you. This means that Mac’s aren’t only nearly immune to the threat of viruses, but it also means that they don’t have to deal with the hassle of anti-virus software. Not having to deal with anti-virus software means you’re saving your money and your time by not having to worry about the potential threat of viruses.
Dual-Boot Windows
Mac computers are able to run Windows because of the fact that Microsoft has allowed Apple to install it on their systems. This means that if you still need Windows for your work or for any sort of program that will not run on OSX, you still have Windows right there available for you to use. If your computer is strong enough to run OSX, chances are it’s strong enough to at least run Vista also; meaning that you need no hardware upgrades to have both OS’s.
Visually Pleasing
Not only are Mac computers technically sound, they’re also a pleasure to look at. Macs often are very customizable in appearance in respect to color and screen size. You can also count on your MacBook laptop weighing significantly less than its Windows counterpart while also supporting a much better battery life. If you’ve ever seen a MacBook Air commercial you’ve probably seen that the laptops are so thin that they can even fit into a small envelope!
Easy to Use
One problem that Windows users often have that is never an issue with OSX is how many odd issues that they experience with software installations and driver compatibility. OSX doesn’t suffer from nearly as many issues and is much easier to use because of how intuitively the OS is laid out for you. Everything makes sense and just feels like it’s where it should be.
Macs are becoming increasingly more common among workplaces and schools. They’re easy to use, visually appealing, and virus resistant. It’s hard to find a fault other than price, but is that really a problem when they’re so effective and reliable?
Photo Credits: Djenan
Originally posted 2009-10-26 03:25:47.
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Posted by How To Computer on January 24, 2012 in
Computer and Gadget Shopping, Macintosh
Computer Gaming on the TV
We always wish to spend time with our friends and family watching television and browsing through the photographs of good old times and holidays that we spent at exotic places. The memories can come alive if the screens on which we see our photographs are big and clearer than seen on our PC where sometimes images are fuzzy. Spending the weekend watching latest movies is yet another fun activity for the entire family. All our wishes can come true by just connecting our computer to the big TV that we own. Connecting a computer to a TV was never so easy. Computers can be networked to our TV with cables or wirelessly. It all depends on the type of hardware that is supported by our television. Mentioned below are some of the cable types available for connecting a computer with a TV.
- A cable named S- Video is possibly the most widely used connector for networking computer and TV. It’s very cheap and the reason for its popularity is that it can be connected to any type of TV as all brand televisions have a port for this type of cable connection. However, one has to make sure that the laptop to which the TV is connected has the port as well. This cable is available in 4 pin and 7 pin options. The only drawback of this cable is that almost all TV have ports for 4 pin while the laptops have ports for 7 pin. If this is the case then one has to look for other options.
- For all HDTV, VGA cable is most suitable cable type. They are made for each other as other TV’s don’t have port for VGA cabling. The quality of picture is usually very high and much better than S-Video.
- The other type of cables available is Digital Visual Interface. The pictures are of great quality and much better than even VGA. The reason is that the signals are digital which produce pictures of high quality. This cable can be put on HDTV provided the computer has a port for DVI cable connection. These cables are comparatively expensive than others.
- So far the only cable that produces the best picture quality is from HDMI. Almost every computer available in the market doesn’t have HDMI compatible port. However, one can buy DVI and HDMI cables and connect them to computer and TV.
After setting up the connection between two devices, one has to change the setting on the window for a successful connection. A menu will appear on the TV screen if the all the cables are connected in the respective ports.
The other way of connecting a computer and TV is through Wi-Fi connection. Ordinarily televisions are not designed to support wireless or Wi-Fi function. Hence one has to install a device or a small unit between both the devices. This needs an AV type cable connector for TV which would supply wireless connections to any of the computers located nearby.
Photo Credits: Brad & Kristine
Originally posted 2010-04-24 09:14:03.
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Posted by How To Computer on January 24, 2012 in
Computer Tips, Device Hookups
Clean your computer before selling.
There are quite a few reasons behind the decision to sell a computer. There are some people who would rather sell their computer than toss it because they want to make a few bucks. And there are others who decide to sell in order to make room for a newer, better computer. This is not limited to individual owners. There are companies that do this because their computers have aged and reached a point where it no longer makes sense to pour money into repairs and upgrades. So instead of investing more money into these older computers, individuals and companies prefer to profit from the ever growing demand for used PCs and laptops.
The Benefits of a Used Computer:
A lot of people choose to buy used computers instead of new computers. Students who do not have a lot of spending money usually have no choice but to buy a used computer. Educational institutions experiencing budget shortfalls choose the used computer option as a way to save money, yet still provide their students with necessary learning technology. And of course, parents who are purchasing a computer for their children prefer used computers because they cost less money than a new one.
Where to Sell:
The best place to sell an unwanted computer is through an online auction or by exchanging it and putting the value toward a new computer. The online market is the number one way to put a computer up for sale. It is always better to sell a computer and make money than throw it in the garbage or allow it to sit and collect dust. Of course, there are a few tasks you need to complete in order to get your computer ready for sale.
1. External Cleaning:
Before you do anything else, you must first prepare your computer by making it look as nice as possible. This means removing built-up dust and dirt. First impressions count and this rule applies to any computer you are trying to sell because although it may be used, buyers still want the best value for their money, meaning they will be more attracted to a clean computer than one caked with dust.
2. Providing Extras:
Any items that originally came with the computer--support discs, manuals, operating system software--should be included with the computer. This will not only make your computer more attractive to buyers, but also worth a higher price.
3. Internal Cleaning:
Finally, you should always erase all of your personal data before selling your computer. Remember, it is not enough to just put files in the computer's trash folder and empty the folder. You have to wipe out the computer's memory too. If you are unsure how to do this, enlist the services of a computer technician. A completely emptied out computer can make it a better sell, meaning you can list the computer for a higher price. Also, you do not want to take the risk of anyone using your data for illegal purposes, such as identity theft.
Photo Credits: blisschan
Originally posted 2010-05-25 03:38:45.
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Posted by How To Computer on January 23, 2012 in
Buying and Selling Computers, Computer Tips, Old Computers and Parts
Quad Bootup.
In the year 2009 there are many more options between which operating systems (OS) you can use than there ever before. There is: OSX (Apple), Windows (Microsoft), Linux, and now Google is even throwing their hat into the OS arena by creating Google Chrome. So which OS is right for you and what makes each OS a unique and fun experience? This article will list each OS and a basic list of pros and cons that accompany each respective OS.
Windows
Most likely you’re reading this article on a Windows computer, why do I say this? Simple, because Windows XP/Vista are the most used OS’s on the market currently, ahead of OSX and Linux. Since Windows comprises more than 80% of computers in the world, this means that it has the most widely available support and software available. It also means that because of its wide spread use and more unsecure build, that it’s most prone to spyware and viruses. Windows is by far the greatest choice for gaming, as most games are developed natively for windows and windows systems being generally less expensive.
Mac OSX
If you’ve been paying attention to your TV lately it’s very likely that you’ve at least seen one Mac Vs PC commercial. Apple’s OS has been gaining strength over the years and for good reason too. Mac OSX is much more secure to Windows because it’s a UNIX based operating system. These means that there virtually no spyware and virus applications currently affected Mac OSX systems. OSX is also much friendly for the casual user, as it’s designed for less technically users and is generally seen as much more fun experience. A downside to OSX is that you must ‘legally’ buy a Mac machine to run it. You can’t buy an OSX computer from a third-party vender such as Dell. This means that Apple’s computers tend to much more expensive than Windows set-ups.
Linux
Linux? What’s a Linux? You might think that Linux is some new operating system just because you’ve never heard of it, but the first iteration of Linux was actually released in the 1970’s. Why hasn’t Linux caught on? Many of the pros of Linux can also be considered a con is the easiest way to explain its popularity. Linux is the most technical of the three main OS’s. Literally anything and everything in Linux can be changed to match your desired wants; you just have to figure out how to do it. It’s not for casual users; however, as many casual users have a hard time figuring out how to even install Linux on their system. Something great about Linux is that it’s highly compatible and runs on just about any hardware. It’s also even more secure than OSX, which is very impressive considering that safety is one of Apple’s strongest selling points.
Which OS is right for you? Well that question is impossible to answer without knowing what kind of user you are and what you’re looking for. Chances are, Windows is fine for most people that are reading this article. It’s never a bad idea to consider using Mac OSX or Linux, however.
Photo Credits: foskarulla
Originally posted 2009-11-30 03:13:29.
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Posted by How To Computer on January 23, 2012 in
Operating System (OS)
Erase History
Erasing the details of the history on your computer not only frees up a lot of hard drive space that has been allocated by your system to store the details of the items you have viewed, but also prevents the misuse of your private information which can be viewed by others. Your system keeps a track of almost all the activities you do, hence, it becomes easy for an outsider to gain access to your private information. In general there are two ways of erasing the history on your computer, the first involves, manual searching of the saved data and deleting it and the second involves the use of software designed especially to erase the history on a system.
Depending on the browser you use, there are few steps that you need to take in order to erase the history on your system. If your browser is Internet Explorer, open a browser and click on the 'tools' tab. A pop up menu pops up. Select the 'internet options' from the pop up menu. Then find the
'general' tab and click on it. Go to the browser history section where you will find a button named 'delete'. Click on this button to delete all previous browsing history. You can also click on the button named 'delete all offline content' to delete all the saved content on your system. To ensure complete secrecy, you can also delete all the cookies on your system.
For a Firefox browser, click on the 'tools' menu and a pop up menu appears. Select the option 'clear private data'. A pop menu appears and gives you all the options to erase the data related to the history. Once you have chosen what all to delete, click on the button 'clear private data now'. However, Firefox users need not have to go through all the above mentioned steps, they can simply take the short cut by pressing SHIFT+CTRL+DELETE. Once you press these three keys, the 'clear data' window opens automatically, from where you can easily clear the private data.
Users who prefer using Netscape browsers can easily erase the internet history by selecting the 'edit' tab and then choosing the 'preferences' tab. Then select the 'history' tab. Click on the button named 'clear history' to erase the browser history.
If you are too busy and cannot spend time to perform the above mentioned steps, then you can always buy or download privacy protecting programs, that are programmed to erase the browsing history and some of the advanced privacy protection programs even erase the history of the applications as well. This means that all the logs related to working with any of the applications will also be erased completely. If you store highly secure data on your system, then for maximum protection, you can install specialized privacy protection programs, using which you can easily erase both the internet history and the logs related to other activities on your system.
Originally posted 2010-05-19 03:35:38.
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Posted by How To Computer on January 22, 2012 in
Computer Tips, Internet and Email, Security and Malware
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