#5: Software
When it comes to purchasing pre-loaded software with your computer, our advice is to avoid it at all costs. Most companies, like Dell and HP, will allow you to decline at least some of the crapware that comes loaded on a PC, but only Sony offers the option of getting an unmolested Windows 7 install. While it's tempting to have Microsoft Office and security software (a necessity on a Windows machine) preloaded on a new PC, you can often save yourself time and money by buying exactly what you want elsewhere and installing it yourself. In fact, you can save hundreds of dollars by skipping over Microsoft Office when ordering a PC. For one, it can be had for steep discounts through schools and employers, and, unless you absolutely need all of the advanced features of Excel, can be replaced by other tools like Open Office, Google Docs, AbiWord, or iWork.
Microsoft offers free downloads of video editing software, photo management tools, and security software. When combined with Windows Media Player, those programs comprise a suite comparable to Apple's iLife in terms of functionality, if not quality. Most Linux distributions also come with similar collections of software installed. For example, the popular (and Switched recommended) Ubuntu ships with Open Office, Rhythmbox Music Player, and F-Spot Photo Manager. There are, of course, plenty of other free and commercial software options that don't come with your OS.
The volume of options out there might make shopping for a new computer seem intimidating, especially when you're looking for a Windows PC. But don't freak out; it's just a matter of identifying what's important and how you'll use it. Once you've got that figured out (with a little help from us of course), picking out a PC isn't any tougher than buying any other gadget. All it takes is a little patience and some common sense.
If you have any questions about what kind of equipment to buy for your business, call WebAddo at 770-217-7350.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Five Things to Consider When Buying a Computer
#4: Extras
At this point, USB ports and Gigabit Ethernet are standard features in desktops and laptops alike, so we won't waste your time talking about them. There are still a few hardware options worth mentioning, though.
Wireless
If you're getting a laptop, Wi-Fi is a given. You'll want to make sure you get one with an 802.11n card in it. Wi-Fi is less important in a desktop machine that won't be moved much, but, if you don't want to place it near your modem or router, you may want to consider wireless.
Bluetooth is also worth considering if you want to sync a smartphone, or use a wireless headset with Skype. Lastly, serious road warriors will want to consider a dedicated 3G WAN card for getting online when Wi-Fi isn't available.
Printer
If your aging printer is up for replacement, you can snag a great deal (or free printer) when buying a new computer package from many stores. Those that print a lot of text documents will want a laser printer, while users who only occasionally print charts, graphs, and Web content would benefit from an ink-jet. Shutterbugs may want to consider a dedicated photo printer.
Monitor
If you bought a desktop, you'll probably need a monitor (or two). Go with a 20-inch model or larger (any smaller and you might as well have gotten a laptop) with at least a 1600x900 resolution. For anything larger than 20 inches, you'd be wise to jump to a full 1080p screen.
At this point, USB ports and Gigabit Ethernet are standard features in desktops and laptops alike, so we won't waste your time talking about them. There are still a few hardware options worth mentioning, though.
Wireless
If you're getting a laptop, Wi-Fi is a given. You'll want to make sure you get one with an 802.11n card in it. Wi-Fi is less important in a desktop machine that won't be moved much, but, if you don't want to place it near your modem or router, you may want to consider wireless.
Bluetooth is also worth considering if you want to sync a smartphone, or use a wireless headset with Skype. Lastly, serious road warriors will want to consider a dedicated 3G WAN card for getting online when Wi-Fi isn't available.
Printer
If your aging printer is up for replacement, you can snag a great deal (or free printer) when buying a new computer package from many stores. Those that print a lot of text documents will want a laser printer, while users who only occasionally print charts, graphs, and Web content would benefit from an ink-jet. Shutterbugs may want to consider a dedicated photo printer.
Monitor
If you bought a desktop, you'll probably need a monitor (or two). Go with a 20-inch model or larger (any smaller and you might as well have gotten a laptop) with at least a 1600x900 resolution. For anything larger than 20 inches, you'd be wise to jump to a full 1080p screen.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Five Things to Consider When Buying a Computer
#3: Computing Power
Here are some guidelines to follow when assembling your new PC's innards. Your choices in OS and form factor don't make a lick of difference if you don't have the computing power to put them to good use.
CPU
While you can still buy computers powered by Intel's Core 2 family of processors, you'd do better to skip them in favor of the newer Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7. If you'll only be using your computer for Web browsing and the occasional Office document, the i3 should be fine. Users who might do light photo editing, watch HD video, and are serious multi-taskers should opt for the Core i5 series (and preferably 6xx models when shopping for desktops). The most demanding users will want a Core i7. These quad-core processors are built to handle HD video editing and sophisticated games.
AMD has a few viable choices for budget-minded computer shoppers. Its Phenom II X4 processors offer great bang for the buck, but they can't compete with Intel's best offerings. And here at Switched, we're of the opinion that buying a new PC is not the time to start scrimping.
In a netbook, there is really only one logical option: Intel's new Atom N450.
RAM
When it comes to RAM, more is better. As a rule, 4 gigabytes (4GB) is the minimum you should accept in a desktop or laptop. Obviously, 6GB is better, but a jump to 8GB would benefit only gamers and heavy media editors.
Storage
Just like RAM, hard drives are a "bigger is better" affair. Look for 250GB drives in laptops, and 500GB drives in desktops. Of course, if you plan to store lots of videos, photos or music, go bigger -- or, invest in an external USB drive.
Optical DriveDo you have or want to build an extensive collection of Blu-ray discs? (Don't worry, neither do we.) Will this computer be serving as your primary vehicle for consuming entertainment? If you answered in the negative to either of these questions, skip the Blu-ray drive, and stick with the significantly cheaper DVD burner that comes standard in all but the tiniest of PCs.
Graphics CardMost users will welcome integrated graphics by way of Intel's GMA HD series, NVIDIA's 9 series, or one of AMD's myriad options. Those cards will handle Windows 7 eye candy, HD video, and anything the Web can throw at them with aplomb. However, gamers and users who do a lot of video or photo editing, will want to opt for a discrete card from either AMD or NVIDIA. AMD's 4xxx line and NVIDIA's G2xx series will keep all but the most demanding users happy. Serious gamers will want to look at AMD's 5xxx options as well as NVIDIA's top-of-the-line G295 and G285.
If you plan to watch HD video on a netbook or nettop, look for one packing a card from NVIDIA's Ion platform.
Here are some guidelines to follow when assembling your new PC's innards. Your choices in OS and form factor don't make a lick of difference if you don't have the computing power to put them to good use.
CPU
While you can still buy computers powered by Intel's Core 2 family of processors, you'd do better to skip them in favor of the newer Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7. If you'll only be using your computer for Web browsing and the occasional Office document, the i3 should be fine. Users who might do light photo editing, watch HD video, and are serious multi-taskers should opt for the Core i5 series (and preferably 6xx models when shopping for desktops). The most demanding users will want a Core i7. These quad-core processors are built to handle HD video editing and sophisticated games.
AMD has a few viable choices for budget-minded computer shoppers. Its Phenom II X4 processors offer great bang for the buck, but they can't compete with Intel's best offerings. And here at Switched, we're of the opinion that buying a new PC is not the time to start scrimping.
In a netbook, there is really only one logical option: Intel's new Atom N450.
RAM
When it comes to RAM, more is better. As a rule, 4 gigabytes (4GB) is the minimum you should accept in a desktop or laptop. Obviously, 6GB is better, but a jump to 8GB would benefit only gamers and heavy media editors.
Storage
Just like RAM, hard drives are a "bigger is better" affair. Look for 250GB drives in laptops, and 500GB drives in desktops. Of course, if you plan to store lots of videos, photos or music, go bigger -- or, invest in an external USB drive.
Optical DriveDo you have or want to build an extensive collection of Blu-ray discs? (Don't worry, neither do we.) Will this computer be serving as your primary vehicle for consuming entertainment? If you answered in the negative to either of these questions, skip the Blu-ray drive, and stick with the significantly cheaper DVD burner that comes standard in all but the tiniest of PCs.
Graphics CardMost users will welcome integrated graphics by way of Intel's GMA HD series, NVIDIA's 9 series, or one of AMD's myriad options. Those cards will handle Windows 7 eye candy, HD video, and anything the Web can throw at them with aplomb. However, gamers and users who do a lot of video or photo editing, will want to opt for a discrete card from either AMD or NVIDIA. AMD's 4xxx line and NVIDIA's G2xx series will keep all but the most demanding users happy. Serious gamers will want to look at AMD's 5xxx options as well as NVIDIA's top-of-the-line G295 and G285.
If you plan to watch HD video on a netbook or nettop, look for one packing a card from NVIDIA's Ion platform.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Five Things to Consider When Buying a Computer
#2: Form Factor: Desktop vs. Laptop
Deciding between a laptop and desktop is primarily an exercise in identifying how and where you plan to use a computer. Answering these three simple questions should set you on the right path.
Where are you going to use it?
Obviously, you'll need to answer whether or not you plan to travel with your computer. If you need to work on your commute, or take notes in class, a desktop is clearly out of the question. If you'll be using your computer in a cramped dorm room, a small apartment, or a bedroom, though, you may want to opt for an all-in-one desktop -- or, for even more space savings, what's known as a "desktop replacement notebook" (essentially, a large, high-powered laptop). Those in the market for a living room PC should be eying small form factor (SFF) boxes that will better blend with home theater equipment and game consoles. If you're not sure where you're going to be using your machine, as you'll be lugging it from place to place, you'd do well to opt for an ultra-light laptop.
What are you going to use it to do?
If you're going to be doing heavy video editing, photo editing, or gaming, you'll definitely want to consider a desktop PC that can be upgraded and sports a large (20 inch+) screen. Media and gaming addicts who are willing to sacrifice some screen real estate and performance for the sake of mobility should gravitate towards the desktop replacements with 17-inch screens. Those who spend their days buried in sprawling spread sheets might also benefit from a desktop or large-screened notebook. If you only wish to browse the Web, check e-mail, and compose the occasional Word doc, you should check out a notebook with a screen no larger than 15 inches.
Is this a secondary computer?
This should be another obvious one. If you already have a desktop, then opt for a laptop. Do you have a laptop, but want something more portable for light e-mail use? Then check out the netbook scene. And if you're looking for a second machine just to get Hulu or Netflix streaming on your TV, then look for nettops or SFF PCs.
Deciding between a laptop and desktop is primarily an exercise in identifying how and where you plan to use a computer. Answering these three simple questions should set you on the right path.
Where are you going to use it?
Obviously, you'll need to answer whether or not you plan to travel with your computer. If you need to work on your commute, or take notes in class, a desktop is clearly out of the question. If you'll be using your computer in a cramped dorm room, a small apartment, or a bedroom, though, you may want to opt for an all-in-one desktop -- or, for even more space savings, what's known as a "desktop replacement notebook" (essentially, a large, high-powered laptop). Those in the market for a living room PC should be eying small form factor (SFF) boxes that will better blend with home theater equipment and game consoles. If you're not sure where you're going to be using your machine, as you'll be lugging it from place to place, you'd do well to opt for an ultra-light laptop.
What are you going to use it to do?
If you're going to be doing heavy video editing, photo editing, or gaming, you'll definitely want to consider a desktop PC that can be upgraded and sports a large (20 inch+) screen. Media and gaming addicts who are willing to sacrifice some screen real estate and performance for the sake of mobility should gravitate towards the desktop replacements with 17-inch screens. Those who spend their days buried in sprawling spread sheets might also benefit from a desktop or large-screened notebook. If you only wish to browse the Web, check e-mail, and compose the occasional Word doc, you should check out a notebook with a screen no larger than 15 inches.
Is this a secondary computer?
This should be another obvious one. If you already have a desktop, then opt for a laptop. Do you have a laptop, but want something more portable for light e-mail use? Then check out the netbook scene. And if you're looking for a second machine just to get Hulu or Netflix streaming on your TV, then look for nettops or SFF PCs.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Five Things to Consider When Buying a Computer
Buying a new computer is always a daunting task. There are tons of variables to consider, including whether or not you're ready to join (or ditch) the cult of Mac. Laptop or desktop? How much RAM? And what processor will you need to power your new computer? As usual, WebAddo is here to help you navigate the labyrinth of options, and lead you on your path to the best PC for your needs. Over the next few days, we will post the top 5 things you should consider when buying a new computer.
#1: Operating System
Windows 7
Windows is the dominant player in the computer world, and with good reason. It has the largest catalog of available apps (including plenty of great free options), is compatible with more hardware than are its competitors, and, like it or not, is the OS of choice for most businesses. While OS X and Linux are catching up in terms of available software and hardware compatibility, they still can't quite match Microsoft's product, especially when it comes to games.
On the downside, Windows is the most vulnerable OS when it comes to viruses and other malware (although that is largely due to its popularity). With its largest competitor, Apple, claiming a mere five-percent of the market, Windows makes the most attractive target for scammers and hackers.
If you opt for a Windows PC, make sure you get a 64-bit version of Windows 7. The Home Premium version will suffice for most users, but geeks and professionals who might need some of the advanced networking features and XP emulation will want Professional.
OS X
Macs are known for their ease of use and sleek design. They've long been the standard choice for creative types and excel at such applications as audio and video editors. Thanks in large part to Apple's popularity with hip, tech-savvy types, more companies have been making sure their software and hardware are compatible with the platform. If you absolutely must have a Mac, but still need to run Windows software, there are options like Boot Camp and Parallels, but they require that you purchase a copy of Windows and have at least some computational acumen.
Thanks in part to its relatively small market share, OS X users are not frequently targeted by cyber-criminals, and the OS, thanks to its Unix underpinnings, is more secure than Windows. With its robust set of included apps, such as iTunes, iMovie, and iPhoto, OS X is an excellent choice for the user who wants to put minimal effort into their computing experience.
Linux
Linux has grown by leaps and bounds over the last five years. Most hardware on the market is compatible with this open-source operating system, and it has become infinitely more user friendly than its "geeks only" reputation would have you believe. While there are plenty of great free apps for Linux, you won't have access to many modern 3-D games or to Microsoft's Office suite. Many Windows apps will run with the help of an emulator called Wine, but it's far from a perfect solution.
Linux shines, though, if you're a heavy user of Web apps, like Google Docs. Its lightweight nature makes it perfect for netbooks, and it's even less susceptible to hacking and malware than OS X. That said, despite having an extremely active and helpful user community, Linux is often more difficult to troubleshoot than either OSX or Windows.
#1: Operating System
Windows 7
Windows is the dominant player in the computer world, and with good reason. It has the largest catalog of available apps (including plenty of great free options), is compatible with more hardware than are its competitors, and, like it or not, is the OS of choice for most businesses. While OS X and Linux are catching up in terms of available software and hardware compatibility, they still can't quite match Microsoft's product, especially when it comes to games.
On the downside, Windows is the most vulnerable OS when it comes to viruses and other malware (although that is largely due to its popularity). With its largest competitor, Apple, claiming a mere five-percent of the market, Windows makes the most attractive target for scammers and hackers.
If you opt for a Windows PC, make sure you get a 64-bit version of Windows 7. The Home Premium version will suffice for most users, but geeks and professionals who might need some of the advanced networking features and XP emulation will want Professional.
OS X
Macs are known for their ease of use and sleek design. They've long been the standard choice for creative types and excel at such applications as audio and video editors. Thanks in large part to Apple's popularity with hip, tech-savvy types, more companies have been making sure their software and hardware are compatible with the platform. If you absolutely must have a Mac, but still need to run Windows software, there are options like Boot Camp and Parallels, but they require that you purchase a copy of Windows and have at least some computational acumen.
Thanks in part to its relatively small market share, OS X users are not frequently targeted by cyber-criminals, and the OS, thanks to its Unix underpinnings, is more secure than Windows. With its robust set of included apps, such as iTunes, iMovie, and iPhoto, OS X is an excellent choice for the user who wants to put minimal effort into their computing experience.
Linux
Linux has grown by leaps and bounds over the last five years. Most hardware on the market is compatible with this open-source operating system, and it has become infinitely more user friendly than its "geeks only" reputation would have you believe. While there are plenty of great free apps for Linux, you won't have access to many modern 3-D games or to Microsoft's Office suite. Many Windows apps will run with the help of an emulator called Wine, but it's far from a perfect solution.
Linux shines, though, if you're a heavy user of Web apps, like Google Docs. Its lightweight nature makes it perfect for netbooks, and it's even less susceptible to hacking and malware than OS X. That said, despite having an extremely active and helpful user community, Linux is often more difficult to troubleshoot than either OSX or Windows.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
The Top 5 Myths of Backup
"Back up your files daily!" It's sage advice that we've all heard-and more likely than not—ignored at some point. Many believe it's too time consuming or simply unnecessary. Not so, which is why we're here to debunk these myths and help you find the right answer to protecting your data.
Myth # 5 - Thinking nothing will happen to your files
So you just bought a computer and it's in great condition. Why worry? It isn't going to grow legs and crawl off with your data, is it? Actually, it might (with a little nefarious help). Laptops remain a prime target for theft at airports and college campuses. And if your computer disappears, so does all of your hard work—unless it's backed up elsewhere.
Aside from avoiding this scenario, backing up your files "to cloud" (that is, uploading them online) allows you to store data offsite and download your documents anywhere you have Internet access. Just make sure this storage provides a secure connection—ordinary email doesn't.
Myth # 4 - Believing USB drives are the only answer
USB flash drives can be quite handy. They're small enough to slip into your pocket and carry anywhere. But—and here's strike one—that strength can also be their weakness since these diminutive drives offer limited capacity. If you need to back up several large files, you're out of luck.
USB drives are also very easy to misplace. Many wind up in the laundry via your pants pocket. Will that spreadsheet file you worked on for three days be rinsed clean along with your socks? Maybe, maybe not. But it happens. And speaking of forgetfulness, unless you remember to always manually connect the drive, you won’t have the backup you need later. (That’s strike two.)
Myth # 3 - Depending completely on your hard drive
A hard drive can be unpredictable. Some offer years of dependable service; others die after only a few months. Unless a working crystal ball arrived with your computer, it can be difficult to guess when your drive’s time is nearly up.
And even if your drive is humming perfectly along, an electrical spike to your equipment (or a sudden drop with a laptop) can wipe it clean in seconds, taking all of your digital photos with it. Storing your data securely at an offsite location can avoid this altogether.
Myth # 2 - Relying completely on a manual backup
Whether it's an unexpected meeting pulling us away from our files, or simple late-night forgetfulness, backing up our data is something that slips everyone’s mind at some point. And invariably, this always seems to happen right after completing a huge project, followed by some computer glitch.
No one's memory is infallible. Look for a backup solution that doesn’t require you to initiate it. (It’s easier than finding a working time machine.)
Myth # 1 - Assuming daily backups are too difficult
This is often the biggest myth of all. Backing up your files daily requires no effort at all if you have the right tools. If you don’t want to bother with an external drive, you can install software that will back up everything. This allows you to completely forget about it—until you need that backup. Some great examples are Mozy, IBackup, and Norton Online Backup.
Don't wait for a disaster to start thinking about backups. Call WebAddo today at 770-217-7350 for more information about automated backups for your company.
Myth # 5 - Thinking nothing will happen to your files
So you just bought a computer and it's in great condition. Why worry? It isn't going to grow legs and crawl off with your data, is it? Actually, it might (with a little nefarious help). Laptops remain a prime target for theft at airports and college campuses. And if your computer disappears, so does all of your hard work—unless it's backed up elsewhere.
Aside from avoiding this scenario, backing up your files "to cloud" (that is, uploading them online) allows you to store data offsite and download your documents anywhere you have Internet access. Just make sure this storage provides a secure connection—ordinary email doesn't.
Myth # 4 - Believing USB drives are the only answer
USB flash drives can be quite handy. They're small enough to slip into your pocket and carry anywhere. But—and here's strike one—that strength can also be their weakness since these diminutive drives offer limited capacity. If you need to back up several large files, you're out of luck.
USB drives are also very easy to misplace. Many wind up in the laundry via your pants pocket. Will that spreadsheet file you worked on for three days be rinsed clean along with your socks? Maybe, maybe not. But it happens. And speaking of forgetfulness, unless you remember to always manually connect the drive, you won’t have the backup you need later. (That’s strike two.)
Myth # 3 - Depending completely on your hard drive
A hard drive can be unpredictable. Some offer years of dependable service; others die after only a few months. Unless a working crystal ball arrived with your computer, it can be difficult to guess when your drive’s time is nearly up.
And even if your drive is humming perfectly along, an electrical spike to your equipment (or a sudden drop with a laptop) can wipe it clean in seconds, taking all of your digital photos with it. Storing your data securely at an offsite location can avoid this altogether.
Myth # 2 - Relying completely on a manual backup
Whether it's an unexpected meeting pulling us away from our files, or simple late-night forgetfulness, backing up our data is something that slips everyone’s mind at some point. And invariably, this always seems to happen right after completing a huge project, followed by some computer glitch.
No one's memory is infallible. Look for a backup solution that doesn’t require you to initiate it. (It’s easier than finding a working time machine.)
Myth # 1 - Assuming daily backups are too difficult
This is often the biggest myth of all. Backing up your files daily requires no effort at all if you have the right tools. If you don’t want to bother with an external drive, you can install software that will back up everything. This allows you to completely forget about it—until you need that backup. Some great examples are Mozy, IBackup, and Norton Online Backup.
Don't wait for a disaster to start thinking about backups. Call WebAddo today at 770-217-7350 for more information about automated backups for your company.
Monday, January 18, 2010
New website promises free and legal music downloads.
Recently, a new website launched called FreeAllMusic.com that promises free and legal MP3 downloads in exchange for watching ads.
When you go to FreeAllMusic.com you'll be asked to enter a waiting list queue. The wait should, however, be worth it. Users will enjoy gratis downloads with no digital-rights management (DRM) restrictions. That means you're free to copy, share and use the MP3s as you wish.
This is yet another idea that's seeking to end Internet music piracy. So far two of the big four music conglomerates are on board with FreeAllMusic.com, and the service has lined up some big-time advertisers.
Also, do not lock into a long-term satellite radio contract.
An Internet radio from Pandora is coming for your car that will receive commercial radio and Internet broadcasts for free. But at a market intro rate of $1,200 for the receiver, this is still only for the rich early adopters.
Yet it's also a sign that we are this close to being able to listen to whatever we want on the road for absolutely free.
When you go to FreeAllMusic.com you'll be asked to enter a waiting list queue. The wait should, however, be worth it. Users will enjoy gratis downloads with no digital-rights management (DRM) restrictions. That means you're free to copy, share and use the MP3s as you wish.
This is yet another idea that's seeking to end Internet music piracy. So far two of the big four music conglomerates are on board with FreeAllMusic.com, and the service has lined up some big-time advertisers.
Also, do not lock into a long-term satellite radio contract.
An Internet radio from Pandora is coming for your car that will receive commercial radio and Internet broadcasts for free. But at a market intro rate of $1,200 for the receiver, this is still only for the rich early adopters.
Yet it's also a sign that we are this close to being able to listen to whatever we want on the road for absolutely free.
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