TV Monitor
These days, many people are thinking of using their television as a computer monitor and some of them have already implemented the same. There are a few advantages of using the television as a computer monitor. If you are still using the old desktop which has a CRT screen, then using the television as the computer monitor, increases the resolution and makes the experience of watching movies and playing games a more enjoyable one. If you do not own a projector and are searching for ways to make a presentation, you can always use the giant television screen in place of a projector. There are a few things which you should know before you can use a television as a computer monitor.
The first step is to recognize the type of input connections your television has. In general, a television has an input of RCA composite input or a coaxial cable or a connector of S-video. The modern day televisions have inputs of VGA, component video, DVI, HDMI. You can easily find the various types of outputs your systems can have and most of these are built in such a way that they suit the television inputs. These days the S-video is among the most popular choices on the computers. Once you know the type of inputs and outputs of your television and computer respectively, you can then get an adapter which is apt for connecting your devices.
A convenient adapter to opt for is the wireless adapter, though the price is on the higher side, it keeps all the problems related to the cables at bay. If you do not wish to spend much on the adapter, then you can always go for the cable option. Usually a cable adapter has provisions for S-video, RCA composite and VGA inputs. The next step is to connect your television to the computer. If your systems have the S-video jack, then you simply have to buy an S-video cable and connect your system to the television. In case, your computer does not support the S-video jack, then you can opt to use the adapter by connecting cables of RCA or component video to the television and use the VGA end of the cable to attach to the computer. The next step is to switch on the television and verify whether the signals from computer are reaching it.
You might be slightly unhappy with the resolution of the images on the television, since, the computer's signals are different from that of the television. In order to solve this resolution problem, you can choose a HDTV adapter and have a HDTV television too. If you cannot afford a HDTV, then you can work with a normal television too, though with a slightly less resolution. This is how you can use TV as a computer monitor.
Photo Credits: Playpower Foundation
Originally posted 2010-05-16 03:25:12.
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Posted by How To Computer on September 3, 2010 in
Computer Tips, Device Hookups
Remote setup
Previously when computers were initial developed, we were required to use DOS language through a keyboard to communicate with a computer. As years moved on, the computer market developed Windows and other OS (operating systems) that were controlled using a keyboard and mouse. One of the most recent technologies that have been introduced into the market is being able to control your computer remotely. We are going to take a look at some of the ways through which you can control your computer remotely.
One of the most common ways through which you can control your computer remotely is through a wireless keyboard and mouse. This technology has been around for some time so there shouldn’t be any trouble using them. Now you may be asking yourself as to how does a wireless computer and mouse work? Well it is quite simple. A USB sensor is plugged into the computer. The sensor needs to be placed at a point that is easily visible. The ideal place for the sensor would be at the top of the computer monitor.
The keyboard and mouse will have no wires attached. They will also have built-in sensors that will be linked to the USB sensor that is attached to the computer. The mouse and keyboard however will need batteries to power them. Seeing as you would be using this mouse and keyboard regularly, it is advised that you opt for rechargeable batteries. After having connected everything as they should be, you can sit at a distance and control your computer remotely.
There are many others ways that you can control your computer remotely while sitting at a completely different location on another computer. This is usually achieved by installing software that makes this possible. If you are planning to use this approach then you will have to do the following steps. The first thing that you will have to do is find a remote computer program. After having found one or after purchasing one, you will be required to install it on two computers.
You will first have to install the program on the computer that you are going to use to control the other computer remotely. After having done that, you will have to install the same program on the computer that you want to control. It will be important that you leave the program running at all times to make sure that you can get access to the computer remotely. Depending on the network that you are using, you will be required to change the settings that will link both your computers. Using this approach will also allow you to be able to remotely control your computer. It is recommended that if you have any problems that your refer to the user guide provided for the software that you are planning to use.
Photo Credits: karindalziel
Originally posted 2010-05-08 03:02:42.
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Posted by How To Computer on September 3, 2010 in
Computer Programs and Software, Computer Tips
Multiple Network Connections
Connecting to the internet through another computer might sound impossible for the average computer user, but it is possible and many are already doing it. It is not difficult to connect the internet connected to another computer, but it is a bit complicated. If you follow the instructions properly you will have no difficulties in actually connecting to another computer’s internet.
Here is how you go about it:
We will be specifically talking about an internet connection that is a cable one. The reason for this is simple; connecting to a computer that is on wireless internet makes no sense as you can directly connect to the wireless net. So in this tutorial we are talking about cable internet.
Nearly everyone knows that computers connect cable internet connection through the LAN card. So if you want to connect to a computer that is on cable connection, make sure your computer has a working LAN card. The first thing you will need to learn is how to connect two computers using the LAN card.
It is fairly easy – the computer which has the internet needs to allow the other computer to be able to use the network. Go into the control panel and click on the 'Network and Sharing Center' icon. Now you simply need to enable network discovery. You should also allow file sharing and public sharing folder options so that it gets easier for the other computer to connect.
Now the second step is to see whether the first computer is showing your LAN on it or not. For this you will need to connect your LAN card to that computer. Once it is connected it would be displayed in the Network Connections.
Now comes the tricky part!
You need to make a right-click on the local area connection where the LAN is shown and go to its properties. The next step is to get into the properties of the 'Networking' icon and go into the 'Protocol Version 4.' Now, you will need to give an IP address against the command ‘Use the following IP’ and name an IP address. At this time you are actually done configuring this pc and you need to move on to the other one through which you want to use the internet.
The first thing you need to do is to check whether the LAN card is enabled on this computer or not. If it is enabled then go to networking properties and click on the ‘obtain an IP address automatically’ tab and it will retrieve the IP address from the first computer. Your computer is now connected to the internet of the first computer. Try browsing or connecting to the internet and if it’s not working then try pinging. You will get to know whether the computer is running on the internet or not either by browsing or by pinging. It is just this simple to connect to another computer’s internet.
Photo Credits: dcmorton
Originally posted 2010-04-22 03:33:29.
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Posted by How To Computer on September 2, 2010 in
Computer Tips, Internet and Email
Computer Virus
Viruses are a potential threat to the computers. From creating small problems to completely erasing the data on a computer, viruses can wreak havoc. With the number of computers connected to the internet, the risk of getting affected by viruses always exists. There is no guarantee that a computer can be hundred percent protected from the attack of viruses, but there are few things you can do that can help protect a computer from virus attacks. Read on further to understand how to protect a computer from malicious viruses.
The most trusted method of keeping viruses at bay is getting a reputed antivirus software program and installing it on your computer. There are a lot of antivirus programs available online, however, make sure that you download a legitimate antivirus program. After the installation of the antivirus software, run the program, this way you can remove any existing viruses on your computer.
Always be cautious when you receive mails with attachments, from unfamiliar email addresses. If you are not sure, never open the attachment, it can be a source of harmful virus. Viruses that spread through email attachments usually spread by finding the email addresses from your address book and sending themselves to every email id. Hence, if you open an email from a familiar id, but are not sure if the content of the email sounds weird or you were not expecting any such mail, it is better not to open the attachment and immediately delete the mail.
To be absolutely sure of protecting your computer from harmful virus attacks, regularly perform a full scan. It might take hours to complete, but it is necessary, to spot any existing viruses on the computer. Antivirus programs, usually, get updated very frequently so you will need to install the updates regularly. This will keep your antivirus program efficient in identifying and removing the viruses. New viruses are created daily; hence, it is absolutely necessary to install the regular updates, in order to be secure from the ever increasing viruses.
Do not blindly rely on the antivirus program. Since, few of the viruses are very hard to remove, once they attack a computer, even the most efficient antivirus program cannot remove them completely. Always be cautious while downloading files from internet. Every time you download you are at the risk of downloading a virus onto your system. Also, always be on the lookout for links that ask you to click, since, few of these links can redirect you to sites containing viruses and simply visiting these sites, can affect your computer with the viruses.
Always scan the external USB flash drives that have already been connected to other computers before using them. Do the when using external hard disks, since they can already have potential viruses residing in them. Be extremely cautious when you receive attachments with the extensions .vbs or .js and it is better not to open them at all.
Photo Credits: ccox888
Originally posted 2010-05-17 03:29:31.
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Posted by How To Computer on September 1, 2010 in
Computer Performance and Tech Support, Computer Tips, Security and Malware
Google Calendar
Getting Organized with the Gmail Calendar
Staying organized is important no matter what is going on in your life or career. There might be those days when you don’t even need to use a sticky note much less keep track of events with a calendar. The problems most of us have with scheduling usually starts mounting up gradually. Whether it is feast or famine when it comes to your schedule having a way to not only keep track of appointments, but also having a way to send yourself reminders is the best way to stay on top of all important meetings, dates and errands. Gmail’s calendar is a good option as it is easy to use, free and can send reminders to your laptop or cell phone.
The best price of all---Free!
The old saying “you get what you pay for” doesn’t apply to Gmail. Since its release to the public in February 7, 2007 Google’s webmail has attracted users who want a simple email service that still features all the bells and whistles like 1 GB per user, POP3 and IMAP service, spam filtering, mobile version, and of course a calendar application. Since Gmail is advertising supported there is absolutely no cost to the user for any aspect of the service.
Setting up the calendar event
Google Calendar is actually one of several Web applications that include Gmail, Talk, Doc and Sites. Using this calendar gives you the added benefit of allowing you quick use of your contacts, Google Docs, and Quick Links.
- When you open Gmail the Calendar option is on the extreme upper left hand side.
- To add an even to your schedule select the Create Event option on the upper left side.
- This will take you to a window in which you can create the details of the event including what the event will be, where it will be, whether the event will repeat, and a description of the event.
- There is also an option box where you can decide if you want a reminder and how it should be delivered. In this same box you can decide if you want the event to be public or private. A private setting allows only you and other calendar owners with ‘make changes to events rights’ have the ability to make changes. A public setting would allow the event’s details available to anyone with the free/busy access to your calendar.
- In the box to the right side marked guests you can add the names of anyone you wish to attend the event. You can use your contact list from Gmail to automatically email them.
- Save the event
Using Google calendar allows you to keep the information stored someplace other than just your own computer reducing the risk of information loss and allowing you access to the calendar from any computer or mobile device. Keeping track of events reduces the chances of over extending yourself or forgetting an important appointment.
Photo Credits: rhosoi
Originally posted 2010-05-28 03:31:46.
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Posted by How To Computer on September 1, 2010 in
Computer Tips, Internet and Email
Get your game on!
Video games are all about precision as well as reaction times or speed, so why not make sure that your mouse is up to snuff to deal with the competitive nature of new games? There is definitely a difference in using a plain USB mouse that costs $5 and using a quality gaming mouse with enhanced dpi that has extra buttons among other features. What’s dpi, and what extra features do some mice offer? This article will educate you on a few different mice that are considered great quality for gaming and the features that they provide.
1) Logitech G5- The Logitech G5 is an excellent choice for those looking to be competitive of those who’re simply looking for a higher quality in there mouse. The G5 offers a button in the middle that allows you to change your dpi (dots per inch) settings on the fly, which can make your mouse feel much more sensitive and responsive. It’s important to note, though, that the DPI can be turned down if you feel its set too high. The G5 also has 2 mouse buttons on its side as well as a middle scroll bar and middle mouse button. These extra keys that can be bound in games increase its functionality. This mouse even offers weighting that can change the overall weight of your mouse accordingly! The G5 can be yours for $50.
2) Razer Series- I’m posting this set of mice as a series, simply because it’s hard to narrow down to one specific mouse as many people like the different weights and feels of each specific mouse. Razer mice always offer a high dpi, and are almost always more visually appealing from a ‘cool’ point of view. If you’re a simplistic person though, the G5 will be more up your alley in regards to aesthetics. Razer mice are commended for being comfortable for use, and they come in large and small models offering you a wide array to choose from. The common complaint against Razer is their expensive price, they’re almost exclusively $50+.
3) Microsoft Sidewinder- A new series by Microsoft, the sidewinder has made a decent entrance into the world of gaming mice by offering a high 2000dpi coupled with 9 buttons, of which 5 are programmable. The mouse includes adjustable weights and even different feet for the mouse that gives a different gliding feeling. The sidewinder is listed at all different price ranges depending on the model ranging from $30 to $50.
Most gaming mice boil down to what feel you like on your mouse, and for this reason it’s very important that you try to find them in a retail store and feel them before ordering. These mice are sure to boost your performance in any online game and will be leaving you most satisfied.
Photo Credits: William Hook
Originally posted 2009-11-12 03:30:50.
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Posted by How To Computer on August 31, 2010 in
Computer Gaming, Computer and Gadget Shopping, Keyboard and Mouse
Google Chat
If you are unfamiliar with Gmail, there are some requests that can be a little unclear. When someone tells you to invite them to chat you understand they aren’t talking about the kind with coffee and a scone. But how do you invite someone to chat? If you have Google’s Gmail and the other chatter’s email address you are practically done already.
You can use Gmail
The nice thing about Gmail is the ease with which you can make changes. The only problem is there is so much going on with Gmail and Google that it is also easy to feel a little lost.
Setting up Chat
If you haven’t already you will need to set up chat. Sign into your Gmail account and select Settings from the upper right hand corner. In the Settings box select Chat from the options at the top. Go through each option in the Chat box and select the options you want.
The Contact List
Should the friend who wants to be added to chat not be in your contact list adding them is easy. From the Gmail main page click Contacts which is located on the right side toward the middle of the screen. Select the New Contact button located in the top left corner of the Contact Manager box. In the Contact box enter your contact’s information in the fields. Double check the information and then click Save to add this contact.
Adding the Contact to Chat
Now that the friend is a contact you can go back to Gmail main page and then go to Contacts and click the friend you want to chat with and look at the bottom of the page. There is a button which says Send Invites. If the other person has a Gmail account he or she will automatically have a message sent to them inviting them to your chat. If the person does not a Gmail account then an invite to create a Gmail account is sent instead.
Chat with Gmail works in one or two ways. A chat box can be opened from the Gmail main page any time you are signed in and available. You can also load Google Talk which can run simultaneously with the Gmail chat. You can use a variety of applications while using Gmail chat including Emoticons.
Check for new updates
When you are in Gmail you can find the selection for Google Labs in the upper right corner. This is where Google tries out all the new tricks and treats for Gmail, Chat and its other applications. If you select it you can scroll down and find new goodies to use. It is a good idea to check here often as new stuff shows up all the time. Once you are chatting with friends you will learn to keep an eye out for new people to chat with and new contacts to make using Gmail and Chat.
Photo Credits: 0ze|
Originally posted 2010-06-02 03:55:09.
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Posted by How To Computer on August 31, 2010 in
Computer Tips, Internet and Email
Step up your security.
With Ads like Mac Vs PC floating around in full force arguing which OS is more safe against viruses like it’s a computers prime selling point, just how big of a deal are viruses now? Even the unreleased Windows 7 isn’t safe from being infected by viruses if it’s used improperly, so they’re a big deal. What can you do to protect yourself from an onslaught of viruses? This article will provide you with a few tips that will keep your computer running smooth and virus free.
1. Use Up to Date Anti-Virus Software- Perhaps the best way to keep your computer safe from the threat of viruses is anti-virus software. It’s very important to download a noteworthy company’s software such as: Ad-aware, Spybot or Avast. These companies all offer free anti-virus that’s constantly updated. It’s important when downloading anti-virus software that you’re not downloading a virus itself, because that’s one of their most common disguises. That’s why you should always stick with a trusted company.
2. Be Safe With Email- Email is one of the easiest ways to become a victim of a large scale virus infection, and the easiest way to avoid it is to not open any suspicious email or follow any odd links and attachments. If you know the sender and the attachment still seems fishy, simply ask them by phone or in person before you open the attachment.
3. Better Passwords- This has become something that companies are enforcing, but it’s still something that needs to be emphasized, use strong passwords. Don’t simply make your password your first name or your dog’s name. You need to add numbers and special characters such as a # sign to your password. This will make it much more difficult for any potential hacker/virus program to affect you. If you can’t remember long passwords, try using phrases as they usually make the best passwords.
4. Use Anti-Spyware Programs- Although many of these programs becoming pre-packaged with anti-virus programs, it’s still important to note that spyware is much more commonly affecting your computer than a virus. It may come in the form of ads popping up on your desktop, or even just a program running in your background eating your memory. They may not be viruses, but they’re deadly and it’s important you prepare for them.
5. Watch Where You Download from- Where you download files from plays one of the biggest roles in whether you’re likely to get a virus or not. Avoid using P2P networks as much as possible as they’re probably the most unsafe downloading environments there are. If you visit a website and a message box comes up asking you to install (yes or no) always ctl-alt-delete exit the website immediately. This is one of the easiest ways to allow your computer to be infected.
Photo Credits: amelungc
Originally posted 2009-11-13 03:40:56.
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Posted by How To Computer on August 30, 2010 in
Security and Malware
Music Collection
Many people use their computer for entertainment and relaxation. It’s fun to watch movies and listen to different music in your computer, but what if you don’t have the desired music in your computer? It’s easy to build a collection of your favorite music. Below are some easy downloading techniques and guidelines. There are two legal ways of downloading music directly to your computer and plenty of illegal ways but this article focuses on the legal methods only.
Installing software:
Software applications have become common now, for all those who are diehard fans of music you can download music by installing any one of many legitimate and reputed music downloading software. When you have done so it is very easy to search for your favorite music through them and download it. Just follow the on-screen instructions.
Through the Websites:
Nowadays shopping, funding, banking and entertainment all is done through the internet. In case of downloading your favorite songs instantly, you need to find out a good and legitimate music downloading website and after loading the site you will have to follow the registration process. Look for a site that requires paying a quarterly or yearly amount but doesn’t charge for individual songs or have a downloading cap.
After registration you become the member of the particular website and can download as many songs as you want. The amount needed for registration is very cheap. After visiting the website you will get a huge collection of songs and music. To do so follow the site’s directions for searching and selecting songs for download.
This is how you can easily get going and develop a huge music collection with all of your favorite songs and artists.
Photo Credits: Pink Sherbet Photography
Originally posted 2010-04-04 03:34:07.
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Posted by How To Computer on August 30, 2010 in
Computer Tips, Music Photos and Documents
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 August 29, 2010 in
Buying and Selling Computers, Computer Tips, Old Computers and Parts
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