HP Printer and Printers Shared on XP Workgroup - An Insight

Printer and Printers Accessories are required in almost every place. Nearly all offices, shops, and industries require printers for some reason or the other. A Printer is basically an output hardware device that prints texts or image tasks assigned to it from a computer. Present day operating systems offer many options for customizing a printer. You can also use advanced features like Printer Sharing that enable you to use a single printer over the network, i.e. from a number of computers. Many offices use the Sharing of Printers to make operation more economic.

This article would be helpful if you want to share a HP Computer Printer in windows XP professional workgroup network. Following are the steps you can use for Printer Sharing:

The whole process can be divided into two basic steps:

Step 1: Sharing the HP Computer Printer

First open the Control Panel and open the Printers and Faxes by double-clicking on the corresponding icon in Control Panel. Alternatively, you can click on Printers And Faxes on the Start Menu.

In the Printers And Faxes windows that has appeared, right click on the printer you want to share and click on Sharing. But make sure that you have enabled the File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks on network card's properties.

In the window that appears, click the Sharing tab and select the Radio-Button named 'Share This Printer'. Assign a share name to the computer, say HP Printer and Printers; this is the name with which your printer will be known on the network. Click OK.

Step 2: Connecting the Shared HP Printer

Now start the computer where you want to use the shared printer, HP Printer and Printers. Open the Printers and Faxes window in the same way as you did in Step-1.

Now click on file on the menu bar and select Add Printer. The Add Printer Wizard will open.

Clicking Next on this Add Printer Wizard will take you to the next page, where you have to select whether you wish to install a Local Or Network Printer. Select 'A Network Printer, Or A Printer Attached To Another Computer' and click Next.

On the Specify A Printer page, select the option Browse For A Printer and then click Next.

On the Browse For Printer page that appears, reach your shared printer named HP Printer and Printers and select it. For this you may have to expand the groups by clicking the Plus sign '+' next to them.

Click Next after selecting the shared printer. A dialog box will appear asking whether you are sure to install the driver for the printer. Click Yes and then Finish.

Now-a-days, printers come in many varieties and models.

You can visit the Printer and Printers Accessories section at Superwarehouse.com to know more about the available varieties of printers. The store offers printers at very competitive prices. You can also find many easy-to-use USB-compatible HP Printer and Printers from this online store.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nachiketa_Mishra

Benefits of Adding More RAM to Your PC

RAM or Random Access Memory is a critical component for a computer to run properly. Having not enough RAM can render a computer useless over time due to too many programs or applications being used at the same time. The more applications a person opens, the more RAM is needed to run those applications. Today, most computer manufacturers sell new computers with at least 512MB of RAM. Compared to a few years ago, the minimum amount was 256MB. And before that, the minimum amount was 128MB or even 64MB. The increase is due to the complexity of the software and Operating systems that are being installed on the computer. For example, Windows XP has a bare minimum RAM requirement of 64MB to operate. But according to Microsoft, it is recommended to have 128MB to "increase performance". As for myself currently working in the PC support industry, you really need at least 256-512MB of RAM to get any type of performance out of Windows XP. If not, as soon as you start installing any type of games or database intensive software, the computer will slow down dramatically. Of the people that I support either at work or my personal clients, one of the main issues is not having enough RAM installed.

As another example, if an application uses 128MB of RAM, and the PC only has 128MB installed, that application will do one of two things:

1) Not even launch

2) Will launch, but then the PC will become unstable and eventually lock up.

When a PC runs of out RAM (or its all being used) then the PC will have to find RAM from somewhere else. Usually this means it converts some hard drive space into a term called Virtual RAM. This slows the computer down even more since its using "fake" RAM to try to help the computer run. Then the issue of available hard drive space becomes a factor. If you are low on hard drive space and the PC is attempting to convert some of the space into Virtual RAM, the PC will become even more unstable. You do not want to get to this point because again, the PC will eventually crash or lock up.

Bottom line, you can never have too much RAM installed in your PC. If you can afford it, I recommend purchasing the most amount of RAM that will fit on your PC. Usually these days, most newer PCs will hold 4GB of RAM. And of course, most PCs now come with Windows Vista pre-installed. Windows Vista will not even run with less than 1GB of RAM! So if you plan on upgrading your PC, spend some extra money to increase RAM as far as it will go.

RChase Computer Consulting Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Raymond_Chase

Mario Online Games With An Internet Connection And A Computer

Anyone who has heard of the company called Nintendo is likely familiar with their mascot character Mario. Some people wish they could go back and play their favorite video games they played when they were younger; not realizing it is possible to play those great games again today.

Unlike when we were younger, you no longer need an expensive game console or special controllers to play the games that you have always loved. Playing mario online games ( http://www.letsplaygamesnow.com/tag/mario-online-games) is just one of the many things you can do online, from home, with the computer you already use every day.

It is not difficult to find mario online games. Simply perform a search on your favorite search engine and you will discover numerous games featuring both Mario and his brother Luigi. Often mario online games can be utilized by just logging into a gaming site. On other sites it will be necessary to download online games ( http://www.letsplaygamesnow.com/tag/download-online-games) so that you can play them when you are offline.

In fact, besides mario online games, you can find many other types of games on the Internet. One type of game, rpg online games ( http://www.letsplaygamesnow.com/tag/rpg-online-games), are becoming more and more common. Rpg stands for role playing games. This is where you become a fictional character and complete the game through the eyes of that character. Sometime you have the choice of which character you want to be, and sometimes you get to create a character from scratch. It all depends on which game you choose.

Just like the famous Sims series of video games, role playing games are similar in that your character can choose a job and go about everyday activities just like any normal person. As you earn money or meet online friends, you can buy new possessions just like a person would in the real world.

Other role playing games work on a more limited level in that the character has a task to perform. It may be saving a treasure or destroying an enemy, but once the task is done you (as your character) move on to the next task or find you have completed the game. In any case, online games of all types are becoming more and more popular these days as the technology improves.

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/kids_and_teens/article_416.shtml

Pointers For Choosing Your Laptop Computer

Pointers for buying a laptop.

If you're thinking of buying a laptop computer there are undoubtedly some great deals to be found, but what should you be looking for when you're in the market for a updated or even your first laptop computer.

Well, it's always worth sitting down with a pen and paper and thinking about exactly what you need your new laptop computer to do. If you're simply going to use it for word processing and the odd email here and there you don't need the super fast processor and hard drive that can hold thousands of files, so don't let a slick salesman tell you otherwise that’s just going to hurt your pocket.

If it's a family laptop computer you're in the market for you'll want a good all rounder. kidshave a great knack of loading games and other large applications onto a PC without you knowing. which can really effect performance for when you need it for more important things like business or your own games. So make sure you get a good-sized hard drive and a good amount of ram.

Regardless of the type of laptop computer you're in the market for make sure you explain to the salesman exactly what you need it for ( ie is it for the home or on the road). More often than not they'll be able to show you in the right direction, but make sure you only spend an amount you're happy with.

If you're an online shopper then there are some great deals to be found, so just make sure you conduct proper research before jumping in to make that purchase. You'll probably see a lot of adverts for the newest laptop computer on the market , Buying a laptop computer , its just like anything else , make sure you do a good amount of research, be clear about the amount you want to spend and weigh up your options.

Laptop computer http://www.discount-notebooks.net
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/computers_and_internet/article_4112.shtml

4 Tips on Computer Troubleshooting

Tip No. 1 of Optimizing your Computer

Computer users normally don't do clearing of unwanted stuff in computer eg. Cookies, Internet Temporary Files. Do have a habit of bookmarking your frequent visit site if you don't wish to remember the site name, so you can frequently clear your Cookies and Internet Temporary Files.

Tip No. 2 of Optimizing your Computer

Setting virtual memory correctly is also important. Setting it too high or too low will slow down your system. The minimum virtual memory size is your (RAM size X 2) and the maximum will be your (RAM size X 2) + (Half your Ram Size).

Tip No. 3 of Optimizing your Computer

Unwanted entry in the registry of your computer also takes up you system space. You can download free tools to clear your unwanted entry in the registry of your computer from Computer Troubleshooting Store.

Tip No. 4 of Optimizing your Computer

Don't place too much shortcuts or files on the desktop, try to reduce the shortcut at about less then 10 as these will increase the boot up time for you computer.

All these tips is base on my experience encounter when I am troubleshooting for my customer. There is a lot of way to optimize your computer. But please don't choose paying method, as these will not waste you time searching it. You will be wasting your money on certain software that you buy. And all these it might not guarantee that it will work, so why still waste you money and you time searching for it.

Derrick Seah is the owner of Computer Troubleshooting Store. Find out more on how you can optimize your computer the right way at Computer Troubleshooting Store

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Derrick_Seah

Cheap Computer Chairs

Cheap computer chairs are low-priced computer chairs that are designed to provide comfortable sitting position when using a computer.

The climbing popularity of the Internet increases the scope for supplying cheap computer chairs. People sit before computers for Internet surfing and playing games for long hours. Unless they adopt a comfortable sitting posture before the computer, the body, which is not amenable to difficult angles and bends for long, would react adversely with back pain and other discomforts. Manufacturers are taking particular care to provide convenient computer chairs like ergonomic chairs, which can also be purchased inexpensively, for customers.

There are automatically adjusting, self-balancing, and work-environment-friendly computer chairs. The body has to move hundreds of times per day. The computer chair should also adjust to the body movements and complement the reflexes. There are many adjustable computer chairs that are made to complement any work environment, from a home office or cubicle to an executive office suite.

Besides an affordable price, a good computer should provide the necessary support to the back, legs, and buttocks so much so that proximity with the computer for long hours of work becomes easy. A good computer chair can help to create a healthy working environment. Loose ends in between the body and the chair would tax the body while it moves hundreds of times while one is working with the computer key board.

Taking care of the requirements, one would be able to procure cheap varieties of computer chairs at prices as low as $41.99, and upwards of $64.46, $ 85.99, $99.07, $104.83, and $114.99.

Computer Chairs provides detailed information on Computer Chairs, Cheap Computer Chairs, Ergonomic Computer Chairs, Computer Desk Chairs and more. Computer Chairs is affiliated with Glass Computer Desks.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Morva

Computer Problem Tips - Are You Messing Up Your Computer? - Learn the 5 Mistakes Most Everyone Makes

Stop using an ordinary power strip - buy and install a good quality surge protector
Electrical storms, lighting strikes, blackouts and car accidents involving power lines all can cause momentary power surges or voltage spikes. These uncontrolled spikes can adversely affect the smooth flow of power to your computer (i.e. fry the components!)

That's why you need to buy and install a good quality surge protector. A good protector should have at least the Underwriter's Lab standard rating of 1449. Look for a label with the words, "transient voltage surge suppressor" and UL 1449.

Stop "forgetting" to do at least a weekly backup
The next question I usually ask, is "Do you have any backups?" More hang-dog looks and shaking of the heads, no.

You can recover from 90% of major computer malfunctions if (and this is the big "IF") you have backup copies of your operating system and data files. Without backups, your dead PC becomes a very expensive metal door stop. Remember the richest man in the world (Bill Gates) made all his fortune with software...not hardware.

Buy a good backup program like Acronis True Image Home or an online service like Mozy.com. Okay... Let's be frank here..."THE" best thing you can do for yourself and your computer is to setup a backup system and stick to it!

Stop downloading, installing and uninstalling lots of and lots of programs; especially unknown freeware and beta applications.

I know this is toughie. The Internet is just full of cool, free and useful software products and utilities. Hey, I couldn't run my little home business without some of them. But folks, spammers and spyware kings have long since known that everyone loves a bargain. And they write up their "products" as freebies too!

Some the most persistent and difficult to remove spyware/viruses I have ever came across have been from me getting a case of download fever and clicking all over the net trying to save a penny here or there on "freeware". Sure I got some killer freeware but I also have gotten some killer adware too!

Then after I downloaded it I had to go through the pain and hassle of uninstalling it or running some anti-spyware to remove it. If the freeware isn't from an established source like Download.com or SourceForge.net then be very careful on what you click on.

Stop letting your hard drive get full of fragmented software files.

The other problem with downloading everything you see is that your hard drive quickly becomes full of used programs, misplaced snippets of code and dead end registry files (registry files are what Windows uses to keep track of what software is installed.)

Uninstalling a program does most of the heavy lifting but no program really is removed clean. So over time your hard drive becomes a cluttered minefield of bits of broken application coding. So once a week if not more often depending on your download activities, you should defrag your hard disk. Now Windows has its own "Disk Defragmenter" utility built in. This utility works fine but can be horribly slow running. So do your defragging late at night while you are asleep or during the when you are away from home.

Stop picking and using weak passwords

Hey, we al do this one. We all know that a strong password should have a blend of lowercase letters, capitals, numbers and characters like this, "2Tech#Log!" But who the heck could remember some pass word like that?

So we all just plug in something like, "techlog" which a tech savvy 15 year old with a free code cracker off the internet can have broken it in under 30 seconds. And since we use the same password on everything from email to eBay to bank records, anyone who cracks your password now has access to your whole online financial life and identity.

Hackers, crackers and other online thieves are not the super-evil geniuses; they are portrayed to be in books and movies. Sure most are smarter than the average person but like everyone else that they love easy pickings. Why waste all that energy to hack into a bank, when you can easily hack the bank's vice president's home laptop because, she like us, uses the same personal password over and over?

So here's what to do. Create different passwords for different functions. Create really strong ones for your bank, eBay, PayPal accounts. Then use a completely different one for those, "please sign up to receive your free offer" websites.

Tired of losing money on unnecessary downtime and want to reduce your computer headaches? To see more practical and fast computer fixes, visit http://www.fixcomputerproblemsguide.com From Chancer Reese, your Small Business Tech Diva.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chancer_Reese

Printer Ink - A Step Up From the Standard Typewriter Ribbon

Decades ago when you pounded away at your typewriter trying to produce a document or type up a letter to family you did not have to worry about printer ink. All you had to worry about was the typewriter ribbon running out then you would have to re-wind the spool to get one more use from it before you changed the ribbon. Today it's a lot simpler and a lot neater than the old style typewriter ribbon. All you need is to change your printer ink when your printer runs out. All you have to do is pull the little plastic sheet off the end and put it into its receptor slot and you're ready to print more documents from of your printer.

One of the most frustrating things about printer ink is not having enough ink in the container. Sometimes when you print out something the images are blurry, faint, or have lines going through them that make them look incomplete. This could happen because the ink is low. There is no one certain method to check all ink levels in all ink cartridges. You can check your printer documentation to find out how to check for your particular model or you just run out a test page and see if there are any issues with the printing output. Take out the print cartridge and clean the receptors on the cartridge. There could be printer ink residue that is clogging the images from being put on the paper. Once you clean the cartridges put the printer ink container back into the printer and print a test page. If the test page comes out okay then all you had was just a clogging problem. If you run a test page and it comes out with problems you probably need to change the printer ink.

There are many different ways for you to refill your printer ink. The simplest way is to buy another ink cartridge from either an online or brick-and-mortar supply shop. You can also buy a recyclable ink cartridge in which once the printer ink is gone from the cartridge you can send it to a company and they will give you a discount on a full one. This is ecologically sound and also provides a good, cheaper source of printer ink. Another source of printer ink is from a refill kit. Some people like to use the refill kit but others have said that in some models of printers it is messy and time-consuming. You just have to find out what the best printer ink refill method is for you.

No matter what method that you choose to refill your printer remember that it is a lot easier than what your parents or grandparents went through with typewriter ribbon. The printing industry has come a long way and printer ink is as technologically advanced as the printers they go into. So, when you have to change your printer ink the next time remember that back in the day it was not so easy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amber_Scott

Used Computers (Desktops/Laptops)– What To Look For?

Nowadays desktops and laptops are much more durable and dependable that they were just five years ago. Therefore, buying a used or refurbished computer is becoming more of a trend.

Suppliers replace their computers on average every 6 months and companies frequently upgrade their equipment. Buying one of these used or refurbished computers can save you a lot of money while still using a quite up to date technology. This is even more relevant if you are not a heavy user (i.e. most of your time on a computer is spent online, you may use a few standard applications once in a while). Even modestly priced computers will more than suffice for these types of demand.

Thinking about buying a used or refurbished desktop or laptop?

Buying a computer is not at all an easy job, one has look get detailed information of the available computers of good and reputed brands. One must take into consideration the size, color, configurations, features etc… While your computer should correspond to your personality and lifestyle, you should always keep in mind the reputation of the brand in the market. Brand counts a lot; you can render good service by the manufacturer if your computer is damaged.

Important handy Tips before buying a computer...
* Verify if the brand is reputed and always buy a good reputed brand. Read about customer service experience for that specific computer issues
* Check the warranty/guarantee of the computer (seek out computers which still have warranty/guarantee remaining)
* Compare the price of the new model in the market with what price your buying your used computer, try to get the best bargain. i.e. a two year old computer should not be bought for more than half of its original price.
* Check if the computer is outdated (if out of production it is difficult to get spare parts)
* Is the operating system current (Windows Vista/Windows Xp). Earlier versions probably run slower (windows 2000) and would not be advisable unless your needs are limited (i.e. web surfing, Word...). In any event, stay away with computers running on Windows 98 (granted you don't find many anymore). Also be aware of Windows Vista. Many users are reverting back to XP and that is even more obvious in the corporate world. Why? Vista looks nice but doesn't bring many technical improvements; therefore IT managers are not willing to implement something new when what they have works just fine. Some domestic users just don't like the new way of navigation within the Vista Operating System.
* Check if the configuration of the computer you are buying is good.
* Check the speed of the processor. If possible start the computer and see how long it takes to fully turn on. If its slow just turning on, imagine the lack of speed once you start adding software..

Additional Tips for laptops

* Is the battery life good? (search for the computers with a very good battery backup (2 hours minimum).
* Check for the screen size of the computer your buying and see to it that it is not exceeding the Normal (normally the screen size should be between 15-17). Less than that generally translates in older computers and increases the chance of age failure. Once the screen breaks, you are often better of changing the whole computer.
* Review the connectivity of the computer (Network, USB, Video, Audio…) look to it that it has a good connectivity including wireless
* Check out the weight. Ensure the computer is light enough for you to carry (light 7pounds)

Where to buy used computers:

* Online auctions. Pro: Often offer the best prices. Cons: Cannot validate the accuracy of the described item. No warranty. Tip 1: Some companies will offer warranty for up to two years, the cost is about 12 of the purchase price. Tip2: Buy from sellers with great feedback, do not hesitate to contact the seller with questions prior to bidding
* Online marketplaces: Pro: Set prices and quantities - Sometime warranty is available. Cons: Prices can vary a lot, do your homework
* Craiglist.com Contacting sellers on Craiglist.com in your local area gives you a chance to meet with the owner and physically test the computer before the purchase

Where to buy refurbished computers:

Refurbished computers can be a great way to buy as they have warranties and are generally sold by manufacturers or companies affiliated with them.

* Manufacturers websites will tell you how to buy directly from them or from their authorized sellers. Pros: Warranty, established companies. Cons: Prices are higher than regular auctions (you pay more for peace of mind)

Buying a used or refurbished computer can be a great way to save money. If you use some of the advice discussed above you can avoid many pitfalls. One last thing concerning laptops, make sure you have a good bag to protect your computer from a fatal accident. Your bag should be big enough for a 17 inch screen computer as it is rapidly becoming the norm, you will probably change your computer within a few years, the bag you may keep a lot longer.

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/computers_and_internet/article_3974.shtml

10 Tips For Ordering Inkjet Cartridges Online

How to order an inkjet cartridge online without getting taken!

Yes, you really can save a lot of time and money by ordering your next inkjet cartridge

As the old saying goes, “An ounce of education is worth a pound of cure.” When you order online correctly, you’ll reap huge savings in both time and money. If you order from the wrong online company, your headache could turn into a migraine.

So here we go... 10 things you should know about ordering your inkjet cartridges online: online. There are many reputable online printer ink merchants today, and they sell quality ink cartridges at huge savings. But before you place an order, there are at least ten very important things you should know about ordering online.

1. Company Information - Before you order online, find out how long the company has been in business. At a minimum, you want a company that has been around at least 2-3 years. In addition, you should have three ways to contact the company:
   
   1. There should be a street address. A physical address is much better than a P.O. Box.
      
   2. The company should have a toll free number so you can contact customer service for any questions about your order.
      
   3. At a minimum, you should have an email address for contacting sales and support about your specific needs.
      
2. Website Information - All reputable online merchants go to great efforts to help educate you on exactly what products are available, how you can order them and how you can resolve any problems that may occur with an order. At a minimum, the following five informational items should help you:
   
   1. Glossary of terms – The website should provide a list of terminology that is commonly used on the site. These words should be listed and defined so that it is very clear to you what they mean.
      
   2. FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions will save you a lot of time. These are the most commonly asked questions and answers that the company receives. They can help you have a clear understanding of what to expect from the company.
      
   3. Refunds – The Company should clearly state their refund policy. It should explain under what conditions you may receive a refund, exactly what you must do to get a refund and for what period of time a refund is available.
      
   4. Exchanges – The Company should have an exchange policy. It should clarify what you must do to exchange your order, what the company will do and when it will be done. For example, if your account is to be credited, when and how will that take place?
      
   5. Order cancellation policy – If you change your mind and want to cancel your order, you should know how and when this can be done. For example, most companies will allow you to cancel your order before it has been shipped. Once the ink cartridges have been shipped, you’ll need to ask for a refund.
      
3. Easy Product Selection - Finding the exact product you need for your printer should be quick and easy. The online merchant should allow you to search for your ink cartridge by name or number.
   
   It should only take a minute or two to locate and verify that the ink cartridge you have on the screen is the ink cartridge that meets your printer’s specifications.
   
4. Discount Prices - One of the major reasons for purchasing your inkjet cartridges online is to save money. Depending upon your specific printer, you can expect to save up to 85% when you order your inkjet cartridges online.
   
   If you have a printer that is not extremely popular, your savings will be less. However, you will still save money by purchasing your inkjet cartridges online.
   
5. Money Back Guarantee - Every company that is worth doing business with will have a simple, no nonsense money back guarantee. That means if you’re not satisfied for any reason with your ink cartridge, you should get a full refund on your purchase price.
   
   In some cases, online merchants will give you a better than 100% money back guarantee… for example a 110% guarantee. Any company worth doing business with will stand solidly behind their inkjet printer cartridges.
   
6. Shipping Information - Before you place your order, you should know exactly how much it will cost to ship your printer ink cartridges. Many companies offer free shipping. Others offer free shipping with a minimum amount order. For example, if you purchase $30 or more, they pay shipping.
   
   You need to know when your inkjet cartridges will be shipped. Most companies ship the same day, unless they receive the order very late in the day. In that case, do they ship the next morning or afternoon?
   
   Finally, you need to know how your printer ink cartridges will be shipped. For example, is it U.S. Postal, UPS or FedEx? Knowing how your ink cartridges are shipped lets you know what to expect.
   
7. Privacy Policy - Every company should have a stated privacy policy. It should tell you exactly what they will or won’t do with the information you give them during the order process. For example, you may not want to receive unsolicited email or regular mail from other companies that sell printer ink cartridges.
   
8. Secure Server - A reputable online merchant will use a secure server for all payments. This insures that all your personal information is protected when you pay with any major credit card.
   
   In reality, a secure server is safer and more dependable than paying by mail. Many times you’ll see a frequently asked question about site security. This should let you know if a secure server is being used.
   
9. Order Tracking - Many, but not all, online merchants offer a method for you to track your order. Although not essential, it is very convenient. It lets you know exactly where you ink cartridges are and when you can expect them.
   
10. Referral from a Friend - Last but not least. If you have a friend who has purchased printer ink cartridges online, ask them about their experience. It's no different than purchasing an ink cartridge from a local retail store. Ask them about the price, customer service, shipping and overall satisfaction.

Now that you have reviewed a few pointers about purchasing printer ink cartridges online, it's time to get started. If you follow these guidelines, the chances are very high that you will experience the best service, warranty and products available for your printer... and you will save money in the process.

http://www.rlrouse.com

How To Backup Your Hard Drive

"It won’t happen to me." That's what everyone thinks! But what if it does? All your files, pictures and documents, gone in the blink of an eye.

Sure, you can reach for the disks that came with your computer to reinstall the applications but what about the most important component, your data? Data backup is something too many computer owners ignore.

There are a number of things that can bring down your computer, some of which include a power surge, hard drive crash, careless mistakes, viruses, a fire or theft.

If your system did not come with a recovery disc, you should consider making a backup disc as soon as possible. This is important should you ever need to rebuild your system to its “as bought” condition.

How often you back up your data varies from person to person. It depends on the volume of data input, frequency of change, and the nature of your data. A general rule of thumb would be to back up anything that would be difficult and time-consuming to re-create.

How to backup your hard drive data:
If you have Windows XP, it includes backup software; however, if you’re running on Home Edition, it isn’t installed by default. Once the software is installed, go to the Start menu and choose “accessories”, then “system tools”, then “backup” in order to run the backup wizard. On the final screen, you can press the “advanced” button which will allow you to automatically schedule recurring backups.

The wizard also allows you to create a system recovery disc which will enable you to boot and rescue your data should Windows get damaged. At the end of this article, you will find a list of programs and software that can do the data backup for you.

You may think you’d like to back up everything you have in your computer. However, there is no need to back up software and applications since these can be reinstalled with the original discs. Most Windows programs now have a default for storing data within your user profile.

Backup programs:
There are a number of programs that perform data backup for you, some of which are described here. Ghost 9.0 creates full drive images, IBackup copies files to remote databases, and Dantz’s Retrospect Professional 6.5 is a traditional backup tool.

There is also free software available for data backup. For instance, Backup4 protects your data and features an easy backup wizard that allows you to schedule backups whenever you like.

Disk Tools Image Maker is an easy-to-use disk imaging tool which allows you to create exact images of your entire drive. It works directly from within Windows so there is no need to boot from a floppy disk.

Handy Backup is another software which makes an automatic backup of critical data to any type of storage medium.

A few backup tips:
Here are a few tips to keep in mind regarding data backup:

Don’t procrastinate. Most people decide to back up their data only after they’ve experienced a loss!

Try to find a backup software that can hold twice as much as your hard disk so that you’re able to schedule backups when you’re not there.

Back up only what is necessary. However, if you’re not sure, back it up - better safe than sorry!

http://www.rlrouse.com

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator is a vector graphics editing program developed and marketed by Adobe Systems Incorporated. The very first version of Adobe Illustrator was developed during 1986, released to public in January 1987, and was only available for the Apple Macintosh. Today, current versions of the program are available for PCs using the Microsoft Windows operating system, and for Apple Macintosh computers, but in the past, older versions of software, were once released (admittedly on a somewhat sporadic basis) for Solaris and some other UNIX operating systems.

From its inception, Adobe Illustrator has been based around the concept of Bézier curves as the main element of documents - in fact degenerate Bézier curves are used to represent lines, and the curves are even used to emulate circles and arcs. Additionally, Adobe Illustrator has incorporated technologies derived from PostScript and Adobe's font technology. However, despite the sophisticated technology behind the product, Adobe Illustrator has always been relatively ease to learn and use, making it accessible and suitable for graphics and design professionals who are not necessarily technical wizards.

Over time, successive versions of Adobe Illustrator have gradually been enhanced with more and more features. For example, Internet-orientated features to support web publishing have been added, as have advanced rasterization and PDF features. Recent versions of Adobe Illustrator have even added capabilities for extrude and revolving shades in 3D, thus allow you to use the program to create simple 3D objects. Additionally, a relatively new feature known as "Live Trace" provides a powerful method of converting bitmap images into vector art ("vectorization").

By S. Tanna. This article about Adobe Illustrator first published at http://www.graphicsacademy.com/software_adobe_illustrator.php - Visit now to get the software, books, tutorials and more!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sunil_Tanna

Photoshop Basics

A friend of mine had been saving up for some time to buy the legendary Photoshop. The editing software of choice by graphic designers, soulless tabloid journalists and artists around the world, he knew he was making a great choice. He imagined his life would be complete when he bought Photoshop. Life would be breezy, he would glide around his laptop making outstanding images whenever he wanted. But when he eventually bought the Photoshop package, he was completely lost.

You shouldn't have to go through this tragedy. You deserve better. Photoshop may be expensive, but anyone who knows how to properly use it will tell you it's worth every cent. Like anything else you will have to make mistakes and learn by yourself, exploring the interface of the software. One way to help is to go to 'Preferences'. Here you can improve the performance of your Photoshop.

Here is some advice to get you started. Search for the 'History Log' on the screen. This is where you can save your progress while you edit your image. The are a number of options to personalise your session. For example select 'Sessions Only' to make the log remember the time and dat that you start each session. Choose 'Concise' to recall more information about your work. And you can pick 'Detailed' for the most information, recording details about every edit you do to the image.

If you go to preferences you can change the algorithm options to improve the performance of your software. The color is decided by the color picker. Windows and Adobe are the most common choices. Resizing an image is done by the 'Image Interpolation' algorithm. Th majority of people select 'Bicubic Interpolation'.

The best way to learn about your new Photoshop tool is to explore! Read what you can find about the use of Photoshop and use tutorials. Play and practice ... you will soon learn the basics and eventually you will master the creation of amazing graphics and photos!

This is unlike anything you've ever seen before. It's a totally unique step-by-step video training system, designed to make any newbie user completely confident with Photoshop in record time. Just 2 hours from now you'll be able to produce your own graphics quickly, easily and completely stress free!

Did you like this article? Curious about learning photoshop fast? Well now you can by getting this free report... what are you waiting for?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Martin_Peters

4 Steps To Clean A Computer From A Virus

Having a virus on your computer can cause your computer to slow down, install spy ware and ad ware, or let hackers into your computer to steal your information. Knowing how to clean your virus-infected computer is easy. Here are some tips to show you how.

As soon as you think your computer might be infected you should disconnect your computer from the Internet and any networks you computer might be on. This is to ensure that the virus does not spread to other computers.

If you have an anti-virus program installed make sure it is updated first then run a full system scan. The anti-virus might not detect the virus if the program is not updated.

Some anti-virus programs will detect the virus, but will not be able to remove it. If that is the case, you can get a different program by downloading it from a computer that is not infected or you can go to your local computer store and get a different one there.

Most anti-virus programs will ask you to restart you computer after it is finished scanning. Once you restart you computer run another scan to make sure that the virus is gone. When you restart your computer make sure that it is still disconnected from the Internet and other networks. Once you are sure that the virus is gone, reconnect the computer.

The best way to combat against viruses is to be cautious of programs and files you and other people that use your computer download. Do not open any e-mail messages or attachments you do not recognize. Get a good anti-virus program that is updated frequently and run system scans regularly.

If you would like more information on how you can get rid of a computer Virus, check out: http://www.squidoo.com/how-to-get-rid-of-a-trojan-virus/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_A_Smith

Computer Programmer

According to the BLS, employment in computer and software programming is projected to increase 68 percent between 2004 and 2014. In fact it’s the third fastest growing industry in the economy. Computer programmers earn between $30.00 and $35.00 an hour and progressing to management could increase this figure to $55.00.

What exactly does a computer programmer do?

Computer programmers write, test, and maintain programs and software - the tools behind every computer function. This involves complex coding, usually learned via a degree in computers. A career as a computer programmer might not seem the “sexiest” option for graduates of tech schools, but computer programming is behind every area of technology. The BLS predicts that job opportunities will be excellent for most computer workers; in addition, the salaries are a good deal better than average. Computer programming remains one of the most in-demand skills in this area.

How to become a computer programmer

A bachelor’s degree in computers is the most common route into computer programming. This degree could be in computer science, mathematics or information technology. If your skills are fresh enough, an associate’s degree may suffice, but a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computers should provide the best career advancement prospects.

In addition, graduates of tech schools with up-to-date computer training will have the best prospects in programming. Constant advances in technology mean that your relationship with tech schools should be an ongoing thing, further adding to your existing skills with diplomas and certifications where necessary.

Melissa Steele is a featured writer for EducationGuys.com. She has been writing about trade schools and technical vocational school info since 2004

At EducationGuys.com, you can find Computer Degrees & Computer Science Schools & build a Career That's Off the Charts!! Find out how easy it is for you to get started on an exciting and high paid career path.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melissa_Steele

Mac Vs. Windows - A Personal Choice

Like many of you I started using windows a long long time ago, my parents bought me an IBM Aptiva which was top of the line back then. It ran the "new" Windows 3.1.1 and it had a 440mb hard drive and 64mb RAM.

I remember thinking to myself "Wow, what a machine this is", and I wasn't just saying that because of the powerhouse that I thought I had in front of my eyes, but also the sheer size of this thing was something to almost be afraid of.....I have grown up with Windows operating systems my whole life switching from 3.1.1 to Windows 95,98,Me,Xp and finally Vista. I have to say that I like the look of Vista but it just does not quite fit my style of how I think a system should be built as far as how programs should work together instead of independently, the endless worry of viruses, spyware, malware, spam etc.

But a funny thing happened while I was watching TV about a year ago, I noticed these cool little commercials popping up between shows I was watching and I found myself wanting to see more of them. They talked about the differences that a PC user would experience as oppose to a Mac one. Yes, I am talking about the now famous PC Vs. Mac advertisements.

Every time I saw a new ad show up on TV I would stop whatever I was doing and like a little kid watch intently like if I was a 6 year old watching Saturday morning cartoons. This in turn got we wondering what these Apple computers where all about, so I started researching them on the internet, watching YouTube videos about the Tiger OS while at the same time slowly thinking to myself 'Why had nobody told me about these cool machines before'.

After a few weeks of learning about them I took the plunge as they say and bought one, a Macbook with 1.83 ghz Intel Core Duo, 512MB RAM and 60GB HDD. I was afraid that I would not pick up the Tiger operating system as fast as I did with Windows but actually it was a lot easier for me and I was up and editing photos with iPhoto, playing around with PhotoBooth, absolutely loving Expose and wondering how I ever worked without it.

Move forward to 2008, now I am running Leopard which is a great upgrade to Tiger in so many ways but I want to say that I still have my other computer which is a PC. I still find myself using for some things more importantly because that one I built from the ground up and it includes my dual monitor setup which I love.

I think the MacPro's starting at $2799 are out of my budget by a long shot so I am just going to wait until maybe a cheaper version of a Mac Pro comes out or maybe an upgraded version of an iMac is available which has support for dual monitors.

Until then I will continue to use both systems, they both have its pluses and minuses but in my opinion the Apple operating systems just seem more stable and secure.

For more Mac related articles, visit http://maxthemac.com

Feel free to distribute this article in any form as long as you include this resource box.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Palma

Protect Your PC

While it's a great tool, using the Internet carries a certain amount of risk. We read about virus and worms destroying information, we're annoyed by those pesky ads that keep popping up on our display, and we see TV shows about identity theft. It's easy to become worried. Heck, I'm guilty of scaring people, too; my first novel, PeaceMaker, is about an intelligent virus that shuts down the Internet.

While the risks are real, there are a number of steps to mitigate the problems. And you don't have to be a techie, either. This article contains common-sense suggestions that the average home computer user can employ.

Identity theft, a growing problem, usually results in the loss of social security numbers, bank or investment account information, or passwords. A typical scam is an email that states that there is a problem with your account and asks you to log into a fake website that looks just like the official one. You are asked to update your information, and the scammer captures all the data as you enter it. The common sense solution is to never click on an email into a sensitive account. Always go directly (or through your favorites list) to the real website.

As we all know, the Internet is riddled with viruses and worms. A virus is a program that attaches itself to another program, usually riding email from one computer to another. The virus is activated when the email is opened, and it may consume your computer resources, destroy important information, attach a copy of itself to every email you send, or carry on any number of unpleasant activities. A worm might be as dangerous as a virus, and it can spread all by itself.

The best defense is a comprehensive anti-virus software product provided by firms such as Norton or McAfee. These AV products check every email message entering or leaving your computer and search for every known virus or worm. When it finds software that matches the signature of a known virus or worm, it isolates the virus or worm and warns the user. The usual course of action is to erase the offending software.

Although you should keep your virus definitions up to date(automatic updates should be utilized), a brand new virus could sneak past the AV product and infect your computer. Although the AV product received the virus definition too late to prevent the infection, it might catch it later. The AV product checks every file as it's accessed, so there is a good chance it will detect the virus that infected your system. A weekly scan of your entire file system is a good idea, just to be extra careful.

Spyware is another pesky problem. Ever wonder where those annoying popup ads come from? It's adware, a form of spyware, which is tracking software installed on your computer with little or no notification, consent or control. Spyware monitors your activities and may display ads based upon the websites you've visited. Furthermore, it may keep track of all your activities and then report the results to some other party across the net.

Spyware is designed to be difficult to remove. Often, these programs are impossible to delete through the Windows Add/Remove function. Many AV products now incorporate anti-spyware functionality. In addition, it's not a bad idea to install a dedicated anti-spyware program to back up the AV software. Anti-spyware products may prevent spyware from installing, and they warn the user of installed spyware. As before, a weekly scan of your files is a good practice.

Microsoft's Internet Explorer is by far the most frequently used browser. As a result, most virus and spyware writers focus the bulk of their efforts on IE. As a result, third party browsers, such as Firefox, are not vulnerable to all the viruses that infect IE. If you are having a bad time with infections, consider moving to another browser.

Finally, set up a firewall on your computer. A firewall regulates the inbound and outbound connections between your PC and the Internet. It prevents unknown outside computers from connecting to your PC. Hackers and automated software are constantly searching for unprotected computers, but a firewall should prevent them from breaking in. Windows includes a firewall, as do many of the comprehensive AV products. Firewalls are not foolproof, but they add another line of defense. This article is not a comprehensive description of ways to protect your PC, but it's a good starting point. A good AV package, including anti-spyware and a firewall, properly used is a great tool. Combined with common sense, you will dramatically reduce the risk to your PC.

Dan Ronco is a writer of technology thrillers and near future science fiction. PeaceMaker, his first novel, was published in 2004 and his second, Unholy Domain, will be released March, 2008. Dan mixes visionary ideas with a touch of romance and humor. Learn more about Dan at http://www.danronco.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Ronco

How To Password Protect A USB Flash Drive

USB flash drives are great but how to password protect your USB flash drive just in case it gets lost?

Being able to carry around lots of files in a small device that easily fits your pocket is something fairly new to most of us. Until recently, we used floppy disks or burned information to a CD. But all that's changed with the advent of neat little USB flash drives that can hold gigabytes of data - ideal for the files that you need access to regardless of where you are.

Individual files can easily be password protected. PDFs, Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, Access databases can all have a password set when you save them. This makes them reasonably safe from prying eyes. I say reasonably safe as nothing is completely uncrackable. Sorry.

But what do you do if you want to protect more of your files than just a few? Or if you'd prefer the convenience of only typing in one password and then everything it was protecting becomes available?

If you don't mind the hassle, there's a free program called Cryptania LE. It's easy enough to use and free to download but you need to split your USB drive up into 25Mb segments. Nowadays, that's pretty small. Just a handful of full resolution photographs from your digital camera, for instance.

Failing that, you will need to find a program that password protects individual folders on your flash drive. These programs are quite inexpensive and quite convenient.

Just remember the password you choose and don't keep it anywhere obvious. Which means that scribbles on the USB drive itself and Post-It notes would be bad ideas!

Find out more ways to password protect your USB flash drive and keep your confidential data safe and secure at http://www.squidoo.com/passwordprotectusb

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Geoff_White

Learn About The Different Memory Cards

Everyday some new invention occurs in the field of computers. Because of these inventions, there are leaps and bounds of advancement in the computer world. This advancement is based on its advanced technologies and highly featured devices. Computers are aided with different scientific technologies that also enhance its performance.

A memory card is the solid state electronic data storage device in computers. Not only in computers, but it is found in almost all of the electronic computerized devices. These devices are mobile computers, digital cameras, music players, video game consoles and other electronics. Let us continue our discussions on different memory cards and some of the speeds of these cards.

When they are found in some devices they offer power free storage, record ability, and small form factor. The cards that are in solid state use flash memory and those cards that are in the non solid state do not use flash memory. Flash memory cards are replaceable for the hard disks in USB drive and MP3 player etc.

Different cards do different jobs and have different speeds. Some common areas of application are digital cameras, in cell phones and in game consoles. PC cards are a different type. They are the first commercial cards that came out in 1990s. They are used most extensively in the industrial applications. In 1990, more of the cards were invented but with smaller formats than the PC cards. They include smart media, miniature card and compact flash. At the onset of 2000, a number of memory cards were invented. These are Memory stick, SD/MMC and xD picture cards. Since then, the trend seemed to be that the smaller card was preferred over the larger cards.

As a result, compact cards are considered as outdated. PDAs and cell phones are made with ultra small memory cards. It is observed that compact flash and smart media are more successful in digital cameras. Most PCs have a number of built in things like compact flash, memory stick, SD etc. Most of the gadgets that are digital support a number of cards to ensure the compatibility of the gadget.

The speed varies among different memory cards. While buying one for your electronic gadget or buying an electronic device that has them, the speed factor is very essential. The speed actually determines the rate of speed of capturing a picture and the speed of transferring it into the computer. Thus the speed of your device depends on the speed of the cards. The SQ flash memory card is one of the different cards that leave all the others behind in speed. A 1 GB SQ flash card would increase the reading speed to the 24 MB and the writing speed to 12 MB. It shows a wide gulf of difference in the speed of other memory cards.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant for computers, laptops and software. When shopping for used computers, used laptops and used software, we recommend you shop at only the best online stores for used computer memory cards, used laptop memory cards, used different memory cards software.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Victor_Epand

How To Clean A Computer Monitor

Need of cleaning a computer monitor

Monitor is the most important and expensive part of a computer/ laptop. Proper care has to be taken for maintaining the glow and charm of your computer. If you want your computer to run efficiently for long, then you have to clean it every now and then and it should be well maintained. If you clean your computer regularly, it can save your computer from getting damaged and being dusty. It is bad practice to place the monitor or computer on the ground. It should be placed on a proper table. Be sure that when ever you clean your monitor or computer, you unplug the computer. Other than the monitor other parts of computer can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner, monitor is very delicate and as it is made of glass, it should be given separate care. Like all other parts of the computer, the monitor should also be cleaned.

Content

Make sure that your computer table is quiet clean, do not litter the place with all your food items or tea and coffee, as once if they fall on the monitor, it is completely spoiled and you will have you spend tremendous amount for buying a new monitor. Don't press your monitor with fingers. Many people do not know how to clean the monitor of the computer. Never treat your monitor as a piece of empty box.

Even though many companies have come up with many liquid products for cleaning monitors, they are not so effective and some may perhaps ruin your monitor. Generally monitors are of two types, they are cathode ray tube (CRT) and Liquid crystal display (LCD), so depending upon the type of the monitor you can clean it. For cleaning the dust of a CRT monitor always use a cloth which is extremely soft or use an anti static cloth. Then spray a small amount of fluid liquid in the cloth and then gently rub the monitor in one direction throughout the monitor. After you're done doing that then use a dry cloth to dry the monitor.

Cleaning a LCD monitor

The process of cleaning a LCD monitor is little different as the LCD monitor is little fragile. To start cleaning a LCD monitor take a soft cloth and first gently wipe the dust from the computer and then put cider vinegar or alcohol on the cloth and water as well upon the cloth and then rub the cloth tenderly on the LCD in the same direction for the entire LCD monitor. And finally use the other dry and soft cloth to dry the monitor.

Whether if you are cleaning a LCD monitor or CRT monitor, the first thing which you have to do is switch off your computers and unplug it. Don't use a liquid which is very soapy. Always use a lint free cloth. If you do not have a soft or lint free cloth, then you can even clean the monitor with cotton swabs or foam swabs. All the above were few important points and tips for cleaning a monitor.

Learn more about my Hanns-G 28 Widescreen Monitor here.

Shane Woods is a established MLM marketer who specializes in helping people earn residual income online. You can learn more at his blog http://www.whoisshanewoods.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shane_Woods

The Basics About Computer Games

Computer games are hot these days. Everyone is now getting into the gaming scenario. These games are no longer the prerogative of the teenagers.

The reason why games for computers are popular is because you just need a keyboard, mouse and joystick. If you want you can also get headphones or speakers to further enhance your gaming experience. However, different types of gamers are opting for individualized accessories. For instance, racing enthusiasts are opting for driving wheels so that they get a feel of really driving.

Most games for computers are developed for Windows operating system. However, game developers are now trying to develop games for Mac and Linux operating systems as they do not want to leave this group out.

If you are new to computer games then you have to make sure that your computer has all that is required to run a game properly. This means you would have to check your memory, hard drive space, operating system, video card memory, CPU speed and Internet connection speed. Many online forums are available where gamers can advise you on different aspect of your computer so that you can install games without any problems.

If you are into multiplayer games then you have to make sure you thoroughly check your internet and / or LAN connection. These are especially important in racing and real-time strategy games.

Computer games are available on dedicated game console platforms like Xbox 360, Sony PlayStation, Nintendo Wii. However, you have to make sure your CPU and graphics card is compatible to run games. Those days are long gone when games were text based so even a simple computer could run them. Today all games are graphics heavy and sophisticated to make gaming experience as real as possible.

About Author:

Pauline Go is a professional writer for many website. She also writes great articles like New Ps2 Game Hints Cheats And Walkthroughs, Best Wii Games Reviews, Psp Games Reviews

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pauline_Go

Free Computer Games

Online computer game providers often promise free computer games. But not many game providers offer free computer games. Game manufacturers often use the term free computer games to attract the attention of the buyers. Here we discuss some methods to download free computer games. The simplest way to get free computer games is to download the free game demos. Almost all computer game sites offer demos of their computer games. The demos are quite similar to the original computer games. The computer games now cost you more than $40 per title. So, from the buyers’ perspective, it’s always beneficial to download the demos first to get a feel for the games. Keeping the buyers’ viewpoint in mind, the computer game manufacturers offer free game downloads. Thanks to free computer games, buyers can check out the games.

The demand for free computer games are always on the rise. That’s why leading web portals such as MSN and Yahoo have started offering an extensive range of free computer games. Free computer games offer the opportunity to try the games before you ultimately decide to buy. The free computer games are mostly time-bound. The games expire on a certain date. During the trial period, the buyers can get a fair idea of the full game version. That’s why people prefer to check out the free computer games before they buy.

However, while downloading free computer games, you should keep some facts in mind. You must download free computer games only from those sites that are authentic. The game development companies you are targeting must be certified. This way, you can ensure that the free game downloads are free from bugs and viruses. As a buyer, you should not compromise with the quality of free computer games.

Computer Games provides detailed information on Computer Games, Free Computer Games, Online Computer Games, Kids' Computer Games and more. Computer Games is affiliated with Online Arcade Games.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Max_Bellamy

Laptop Or Desktop?

Hey my friend, I need a new computer, what do you think I should get?"

I hear that question....often. The answer may be simple for some, but most people do not realize how cheap they can get a decent computer or laptop...which brings me to another question I often hear: "Should I get a laptop or desktop?"

There are many websites out there that compare computers and most are just trying to get people to purchase their brand. In my opinion, all manufacturers are better than they were 5 yrs ago. I personally have 2 Dell desktop computers. One is about 4 months old, the other is 7 yrs old. I am not promoting Dell, but I never....not at all....had to call someone at Dell about my computers. They just "work".

In saying that....most people just need to find a computer that fits what they need to do with it. Now for the purposes of this post, I am going to stick with Dell because I use them at home so I can help someone choose the right model for what they need. There are basically 3 different types of people that need a computer:

1) The college student

2) The parents/grandparents or computer beginner

3) The gamer

I'll give a brief breakdown of what each group should purchase but of course, each group has its people that actually fall into more than one group.

1) The college student: Usually, a laptop is the best decision for a college student. Why? Because they will always be studying somewhere. Whether at work or the library, most places these days have wireless Internet access so they can connect to the Internet if need be. Besides that, laptops are portable and easy to carry anywhere. The college student generally does not need a high powered processor or extra RAM. Just the basics. Here is the laptop I would recommend to a college student:

Dell Inspirion 1525

2) The parents/grandparents or computer beginner: This group is also simple....although they probably need a desktop instead of a laptop. Again, unless the parents are into gaming or other graphic intensive things, a simple desktop will do. Here is my recommendation:

Dell Inspirion 530

3) The gamer: This group is a fun one. People in this group could range from kids to adults and vary from all different types of games including online gaming. To play a PC game, your computer should be maxed out in all areas as much as you can afford at the time. I recommend purchasing a desktop, not a laptop for gaming, even though there are some companies that sell "gaming laptops", its not the same. Video cards are still not the best in laptops. Most games are so memory and graphic intensive that a gaming computer will need to have the best available at the time of purchase. Of course, there comes a huge price for this...but hey, if you are willing to spend this much to play games and you love doing, why not? Splurge if you can. Here is what I would recommend to a PC gamer:

Dell XPS 720

Ok, well that sums it up for deciding to purchase a laptop or desktop. Like I said, the above list is just general. There are more questions I ask people before making a recommendation but at least whoever is reading this will have an idea of what to look for.

RChase Computer Consulting Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Raymond_Chase