Backup Schedule: Learn How Often To Backup

If you backup, you are one step away from a disaster. If you backup often, make it several steps. Learn how often to backup and how to make your own backup schedule.

Surely, one can backup to whatever backup medium he wants, but if one does not stick to a backup schedule, most of the efforts, aimed at storing or securing the important information will be spent in vain.

First, we need to figure out what we are backing up, as the backup schedule largely depends on the siz...
If you backup, you are one step away from a disaster. If you backup often, make it several steps. Learn how often to backup and how to make your own backup schedule.

Surely, one can backup to whatever backup medium he wants, but if one does not stick to a backup schedule, most of the efforts, aimed at storing or securing the important information will be spent in vain.

First, we need to figure out what we are backing up, as the backup schedule largely depends on the size of the backup data:

- small amounts of data (important work documents) can be backed up often, hourly, daily and at least weekly

- medium amounts of files (e-mail messages, project documents and work documents) can be backed up daily, weekly or monthly (at least)

- large amounts of data (e-mail messages, project documents, data files, settings files, etc) can be backed up weekly or monthly

- huge amounts of data (all of the above plus images, audios - mp3s and videos - mpegs) can be backed up monthly or yearly

- total backup (a backup of all the data on the computer) can be backed up weekly, monthly or yearly.

Which backup schedule to choose is up to you, but you will also need to choose a backup software to do that and set up the time when to perform a scheduled backup.

First of all, the backup software needs to support the backup medium you want to backup (CD, DVD, FTP, LAN, external USB or flash drive, etc). Next, you select the files you want to backup, choose the time you want to backup and leave it there. Some programs can run as a service and don't need to be launched, but some need to be running when you want the backup to be run. At any case, the computer has to be on at the time of your backup schedule.

Think the time of a backup schedule doesn't matter? What if it runs during your work day and slows down your work computer for an hour or two? To keep working _and_ to stick to the backup schedule, simply set the backup to run a couple of hours before or after your working time. This way you won't be interrupted with a scheduled backup.

Consumer Electronics

Consumer electronics have become a major part of our everyday lives, whether we think so or not. You don't have to be a tech freak to have most of your life somewhat dependant upon electronics. This dependency seems to grow more and more with each new generation as well. If you run through a typical day, you might notice just how many consumer electronics that you use. There are also many new devices coming out all of the time to fill the void that was lacking a device to fil...

Consumer electronics have become a major part of our everyday lives, whether we think so or not. You don't have to be a tech freak to have most of your life somewhat dependant upon electronics. This dependency seems to grow more and more with each new generation as well. If you run through a typical day, you might notice just how many consumer electronics that you use. There are also many new devices coming out all of the time to fill the void that was lacking a device to fill it.

Most of us will start our day to the tune of an electric alarm clock. Then as we get ready in the morning we will use a couple of other devices ranging from an electric shaver to an electric iron. You may then heat up some breakfast in a microwave or toaster while the electric coffee maker brews a fresh pot. The point is that you have hardly started your day and most of the morning was spent using various electronics. With a normal work week most of us do not have time to manually do everything. Consumer electronics mainly fulfill two duties. They either provide a useful function and/or they entertain us.

Most of the electronics that fulfill a function of daily life are similar to the aforementioned products that you may use in the morning. Many others include things like refrigerators and washing machines. These appliances make everyday chores take a fraction of the time. Our electronics also make us more comfortable with climate control for our homes and water heaters for our faucets. You do not need to shop the latest products to be dependant upon electronics.

Besides consumer electronics that are used for everyday functions, there are ones that are purely for our interest and entertainment. MP3 player, portable gaming devices and camcorders all provide for entertainment everyday. There are also items like computers and cell phones that provide daily functions and entertainment. Our consumer electronics improve more every year to provide functionality and consumer satisfaction. More and more each year these products also fuse the gap between entertainment and functionality which promises them a place in our shopping carts.

Las Mejores Biografias de Los Artistas Visuales Mas Destacados

Aquí te presentamos una guía de las mejores películas que describen la vida de pintores y artistas visuales.


Las biografías de artistas visuales es un tema popular en el mundo del cine. Los productores de películas siempre estuvieron fascinados por las biografías de artistas visuales, especialmente si incluye locura, adicción a las drogas u otros temas duros. De hecho, les da una oportunidad de mostrar obras de arte restauradas u originales en la pantalla grande.

Aquí, puedes leer a cerca de algunos de las más interesantes películas a cerca de la vida de artistas visuales.

1)"Lust for Life", dirigida por Vicente Minnelli en 1952:
La biografía de Vincent Van Gogh ha ganado varias adaptaciones cinematográficas. Esta en especial es interpretada por Kira Douglas como Vincent la cual la ha hecho muy notable. La película esta basada en un libro (best selling) por Irving Stone, quien también escribió "La Agonía y el Éxtasis" a cerca de Michel Angelo, la cual también fue convertida en película. Si disfrutas de las obras de Van Gogh, disfrutaras de "Lust for Life", que presenta casi 200 pinturas originales del Van Gogh. SI eres familiar con Kirk Douglas, verlo como este torturado pintor es un poco extraño. Otra película recomendable sobre Van Gogh es Robert Altmans Vincent y Theo de 1990.

2) Sobreviviendo Picasso, dirigida por James Ivory en 1996:
Como Van Gogh, la imagen de Pablo Picasso lo convirtió en una figura icónica fuera del círculo artístico. Mientras que Van Gogh simboliza la propia destrucción, maniaco depresivo el cual su éxito apareció luego de su muerte, Picasso representa lo misantropito y mujeriego del artista. Las relaciones de Picasso con mujeres es el enfoque de esta película. La historia es contada desde los ojos de la ayudanta de Picasso Francoise Gilot y caracteriza solo reproducciones de las obras del artista. El talentoso Anthony Hopkins interpreta a Picasso teniendo un parecido al artista muy increíble. Esta película logra crear un retrato tan cruel, egocéntrico y genio como el verdadero.

3) Chica con el Aro de Perla, dirigida por Meter Webber en 2003:
Comparado a Van Gogh y Picasso, la biografía de Vermeers es menos conocida y menos controversial. Por eso, esta película es mucho más restringida y delicada que las anteriores. La película se focaliza en un corto periodo de la vida de Verneers en el que pintaba el retrato de su ama de casa de baja clase. A pesar de que la película no evita convenciones cinematográficas extra dramatizando el proceso de su pintura, vale la pena mirar la película por su diseño artístico que logra evocar la percepción de color y luz del pintor.

4) Basquiat, dirigida por Julian Schnabel en 1996:
La critica mas común en contra de películas que tratan de artes visuales es la manera en que expresan el proceso de las creaciones. Por eso, había grandes expectaciones de Basquiat, que fue dirigida por el celebre pintor Julian Schnabel. Este logro expresar bien la subida y caída de Michelle Basquiat. De todas formas, la principal razón para mirar esta película es David Bowe quien interpreta a Andy Warhol.

5) Frida, dirigida por Julie Taymor en 2002:
Como la mayoría de los artistas que tuvieron su biografía adaptada al cine, Frida Kahlo tuvo una bastante inusual, que incluye accidente de ómnibus, matrimonio problemático, y un romance con Leon Trotsky. Como Van Gogh, Picasso y Jackson Polloch, Frida Kahlo era un icono mucho antes de la creación de su película, pero los 123 minutos de ella ayudaron a esforzar su posición como idola feminista y la pintora más famosa del siglo 20. Este film intenta integrar a Frida con sus pinturas y el resultado es muy colorido y agradable. Muy recomendable.

How To Shop For Portable DVD Players

If you're always on the go, traveling or taking long road trips with the children, portable DVD players are likely one of the most important accessories to take along for the ride.  The convenience of being able to watch movies anytime, anywhere is a huge benefit.  If you are taking a long flight, experiencing delays on a commuter train or just want to keep the children entertained in the backseat during a road trip, portable DVD players are more than convenient - they are a sanity saver.

Before looking at portable DVD players, take the time to create a realistic budget.  Most units range from $100.00 and up to several hundred dollars.  If you know that there is an occasion coming up and you may want to purchase a unit, consider placing it on layaway at your local retail store.  A layaway program typically consists of 10% down and convenient monthly payments until the balance is paid.  At that time, the layaway ends and you take the product home.  It's fully paid and you own a brand new portable DVD player.  This is especially helpful if you don't have the cash on hand to pay for the unit all at once, but still want to secure the purchase.  If you have the cash to pay upfront, that's great.  If not, try layaway as opposed to charging the purchase on a credit card.  With interest, you will likely end up spending a lot more in the long run unless you pay the balance off over a few months.

Now that you know how much you can spend, start looking at portable DVD players and their features.  When making any type of investment in a product, you will want to check out the warranty.  Most quality units offer 1 year labor and up to 3 years for replacement parts.  Always be sure to save the original receipt, along with the warranty information.  Portable DVD players offer a variety of screen sizes, so be sure to select one that is convenient for travel, easy to see and offers good quality images.  Another important feature is that most portable DVD players offer the capability of both music and video playback, which means you can insert a music CD or movie on DVD and either can be enjoyed in a single unit.

With most portable DVD players, weight is not going to be an issue.  They are designed to be lightweight because they are portable and the manufacturer expects that you plan to travel with the unit.  But, some products are more lightweight than others, so shop around until you find one that isn't going to add a lot of extra bulk and weight to your travel bag.

How to protect your Computer. Wery useful Tips

Computer Security Ethics and Privacy
Today, many people rely on computers to do homework, work, and create or store useful information. Therefore, it is important for the information on the computer to be stored and kept properly. It is also extremely important for people on computers to protect their computer from data loss, misuse, and abuse.  For example, it is crucial for businesses to keep information they have secure so that hackers can’t access the information. Home users also need to take means to make sure that their credit card numbers are secure when they are participating in online transactions.  A computer security risk is any action that could cause lost of information, software, data, processing incompatibilities, or cause damage to computer hardware,   a lot of these are planned to do damage. An intentional breach in computer security is known as a computer crime which is slightly different from a cypercrime. A cybercrime is known as illegal acts based on the internet and is one of the FBI’s top priorities.  There are several distinct categories for people that cause cybercrimes, and they are refereed as hacker, cracker, cyberterrorist, cyberextortionist, unethical employee, script kiddie and corporate spy.  The term hacker was actually known as a good word but now it has a very negative view. A hacker is defined as someone who accesses a computer or computer network unlawfully.  They often claim that they do this to find leaks in the security of a network. The term cracker has never been associated with something positive this refers to someone how intentionally access a computer or computer network for evil reasons. It’s basically an evil hacker.  They access it with the intent of destroying, or stealing information. Both crackers and hackers are very advanced with network skills.  A cyberterrorist is someone who uses a computer network or the internet to destroy computers for political reasons.  It’s just like a regular terrorist attack because it requires highly skilled individuals, millions of dollars to implement, and years of planning. The term cyperextortionist is someone who uses emails as an offensive force. They would usually send a company a very threatening email stating that they will release some confidential information, exploit a security leak, or launch an attack that will harm a company’s network. They will request a paid amount to not proceed sort of like black mailing in a since. An unethical employee is an employee that illegally accesses their company’s network for numerous reasons. One could be the money they can get from selling top secret information, or some may be bitter and want revenge. A script kiddie is someone who is like a cracker because they may have the intentions of doing harm, but they usually lack the technical skills. They are usually silly teenagers that use prewritten hacking and cracking programs. A corporate spy has extremely high computer and network skills and is hired to break into a specific computer or computer network to steal or delete data and information. Shady companies hire these type people in a practice known as corporate espionage. They do this to gain an advantage over their competition an illegal practice. Business and home users must do their best to protect or safeguard their computers from security risks. The next part of this article will give some pointers to help protect your computer. However, one must remember that there is no one hundred percent guarantee way to protect your computer so becoming more knowledgeable about them is a must during these days. When you transfer information over a network it has a high security risk compared to information transmitted in a business network because the administrators usually take some extreme measures to help protect against security risks. Over the internet there is no powerful administrator which makes the risk a lot higher. If your not sure if your computer is vulnerable to a computer risk than you can always use some-type of online security service which is a website that checks your computer for email and Internet vulnerabilities. The company will then give some pointers on how to correct these vulnerabilities.  The Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Center is a place that can do this. The typical network attacks that puts computers at risk includes viruses, worms, spoofing, Trojan horses, and denial of service attacks.  Every unprotected computer is vulnerable to a computer virus which is a potentially harming computer program that infects a computer negatively and altering the way the computer operates without the user’s consent. Once the virus is in the computer it can spread throughout infecting other files and potentially damaging the operating system itself. It’s similar to a bacteria virus that infects humans because it gets into the body through small openings and can spread to other parts of the body and can cause some damage. The similarity is, the best way to avoid is preparation.  A computer worm is a program that repeatedly copies itself and is very similar to a computer virus. However the difference is that a virus needs o attach itself to an executable file and become a part of it. A computer worm doesn’t need to do that I seems copies to itself and to other networks and eats up a lot of bandwidth. A Trojan Horse named after the famous Greek myth and is used to describe a program that secretly hides and actually looks like a legitimate program but is a fake.  A certain action usually triggers the Trojan horse, and unlike viruses and worms they don’t replicate itself. Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are all classifies as malicious-logic programs which are just programs that deliberately harms a computer.  Although these are the common three there are many more variations and it would be almost impossible to list them. You know when a computer is infected by a virus, worm, or Trojan horse if one or more of these acts happen:

?    Screen shots of weird messages or pictures appear.
?    You have less available memory then you expected
?    Music or sounds plays randomly.
?    Files get corrupted
?    Programs are files don’t work properly
?    Unknown files or programs randomly appear
?    System properties fluctuate

Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses deliver their payload or instructions through four common ways. One, when an individual runs an infected program so if you download a lot of things you should always scan the files before executing, especially executable files. Second, is when an individual runs an infected program. Third, is when an individual bots a computer with an infected drive, so that’s why it’s important to not leave media files in your computer when you shut it down.  Fourth is when it connects an unprotected computer to a network. Today, a very common way that people get a computer virus, worm, or Trojan horse is when they open up an infected file through an email attachment. There are literally thousands of computer malicious logic programs and new one comes out by the numbers so that’s why it’s important to keep up to date with new ones that come out each day. Many websites keep track of this. There is no known method for completely protecting a computer or computer network from computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses, but people can take several precautions to significantly reduce their chances of being infected by one of those malicious programs.  Whenever you start a computer you should have no removable media in he drives. This goes for CD, DVD, and floppy disks. When the computer starts up it tries to execute a bot sector on the drives and even if it’s unsuccessful any given various on the bot sector can infect the computer’s hard disk. If you must start the computer for a particular reason, such as the hard disk fails and you are trying to reformat the drive make sure that the disk is not infected.

Finding the Right Computer Desktop for Your Needs

When it comes to buying a computer, the choices can make you dizzy. Here's a guide to buying the right computer for your needs.

When it comes to buying a computer, the choices can make you dizzy. You not only have to decide between desktop computers and notebooks (also known as laptops), but you need to determine which features will work best for your needs. This is all the more difficult because technology changes so rapidly. Given that most people buy computers infrequently, what may have been state-of-the-art the last time you bought a desktop or laptop is now considered obsolete. Here, then, are some things to consider before purchasing a new computer.

Computer Desktop vs. Notebooks

Not that long ago, no one would consider using notebooks or laptops as their primary computers. After all, when compared with desktops, they didn't have much RAM, had small, less-than-crisp displays, and didn't have features like DVD players and multiple USB ports. Today, though, LCD monitors make notebook displays brighter, and multiple ports make hooking up printers a cakewalk. Because hard drives are so much bigger and RAM is so much greater, it's no longer necessary to worry that software will either overload the hard drive or slow down performance.

But just because notebooks are more powerful, it doesn't mean that they're the right choice for everyone. If, for example, you regularly work from home, you probably want a computer desktop. Bigger displays, traditional keyboards and mice, and more versatility are just some of the advantages of desktops. In addition, many people use have begun choosing computer desktops that can double as media centers. If high quality sound is important to you and your computer will have a dedicated space in your home, you probably want to choose a desktop.

Mac vs. PC Computers

Although Apple is gaining market share with notebooks, when it comes to a computer desktop, PCs still reign supreme. Making the choice between a Mac and a PC really comes down to how you will be using the computer. If you're a creative type who wants to, for example, take photos from your digital camera and create albums and slideshows, a Mac might be the right choice. Similarly, if you're interested in editing home movies or doing work with graphics, Macs rule.

On the other hand, if you or members of your family are avid gamers, you probably want to go with a PC, since most games are Windows-based and not compatible with the Mac operating system. And, while software like Microsoft Office is available for the both the Mac and PC, other software often isn't compatible with Macs.

Extras

When you're shopping for a computer desktop, you need to consider which "extras" are important to you. For example, do you need a computer that can burn a DVD? Do you need six USB ports, or will four suffice? Is a built-in webcam a must-have? Can you live without wireless connectivity? Are you willing to pay a little extra for a higher resolution LCD monitor? Is surround sound speaker output an absolute necessity?

Before you make a buying decision, it's important to understand what's available in the market, what kind of operating system you would like, and which features are important to you. When you do, you'll know that you're paying for only what you need, and will end up owning the computer desktop that's perfect for you and your family.

Data Storage Media – A Guide to Selecting Media For Storing and Backing Up Computer Data

Not so long ago computer data was backed up onto floppy disks. These days there is a bewildering range of different media options available for storing and backing up computer data. This article explains the differences between them so users can select the most appropriate for their needs.
Data, or information stored on your computer, can either be held on fixed disk drives inside the computer or on removable media such as CD's that can be inserted and removed.  Removable media can be used to transfer files between computers or to backup the data already existing on fixed disk drives. There are three types of removable media: Magnetic, Optical and Flash.

Magnetic Storage 

Magnetic Storage: Hard disks, floppy disks and digital audiotape are examples of Magnetic storage. They operate through a read/write head, which creates and reads magnetic impressions on the disk.

The downside…

•    The magnetic impression only lasts for around five years
•    The capacity of most removable magnetic disks is too low for many types of files


Optical storage 

Optical Storage holds information in digital form that is written and read by a laser. All CD and DVD devices are examples of this.

The upside… 

•    Increased capacity: one Optical disc can store the same amount of data as over 500 diskettes
•     Durability: they last up to seven times as long as Magnetic forms of storage



Flash Memory (Solid-State Removable Storage)

Solid-state memory (or Flash memory) is a high-performance plug-and-play storage device that contains no moving parts. It is found in digital cameras, video game consoles and digital audio players. You can use it in the form of USB Flash Drives to transfer or backup data. Flash memory is small, light and fast.


Backup

Backup is the copying of files onto portable media so that if your computer crashes, data won’t be lost in oblivion. Backup is usually routine in large businesses but is often neglected by individual users. Some suggest backing up data files and duplicating your hard drive weekly. It takes around 45 minutes to backup a 500-megabyte hard disk.

There are two options- Local or Internet backup. The following is a list of Local backup options. Most of these also double as devices used to transfer data between computers. 
•    Diskettes
•    Zip Drives
•    CD's
•    DVD's
•    Flash Drive


Internet Backup

Another backup option is sending your files to an Internet site for safekeeping. If your computer crashes you can simply download them from the site. Here are a few examples of such sites:

Backup Defender- www.backupdefender.co.nz
My Backup- www.mybackup.co.nz

N.B. The author does not recommend or endorse any of the above service providers.


Diskettes and Zip Drives

Diskette

A Diskette is a 3.5-inch removable magnetic disk. The older version, the floppy disk, is 5.25 inches square and flexible. Copying to a diskette is quick and economical.

Ideal for…

•    Those who use their PC for personal finance - the diskette enables you to retrieve checkbook balances etc.
•    Projects that need to be continuously backed up such as a film script, as it is a cheap alternative.

Not so good for…

•    Some newer computer and laptop models that do not have a diskette or floppy drive installed.
•    Large amounts of data as diskettes don’t have a great storage capacity


Zip Drives

A Zip drive is a small, square shaped magnetic disk that is ideal for backing up your PC. The 100-megabyte size holds the equivalent of 70 floppy diskettes. They also come in a 250-megabyte size

Ideal for…

•    Duplicating your entire disc drive
•    Archiving
•    Storing graphic images or other large files 
•     Transferring large files
•    Keeping certain data separate from files on your hard disk 


The downside…

•    They seem to be a fleeting technology - most computers do not have a Zip Disc drive installed and opinion varies on how long they will be around for.


Compact Disks

There are different standards of CD's that have different capabilities. Just to confuse us they are recognized by seemingly similar acronyms; CD-R, CD-RW, CD+RW, DDCD and E-CD.

CD-R

CD-R (Compact Disc - Recordable) is a CD that can be recorded to only once. It usually holds 74 minutes of audio or 650 MB of data, although newer versions hold up to 80 minutes of audio (700 MB of data). If your PC has CD burning software and a compatible CD-R or CD-RW drive, the CD-R can be used in the same way as a diskette. However unlike a diskette it cannot be deleted or overwritten. Look out for CD-Rs that have an additional protective layer which make them less susceptible to damage caused through scratching.
Ideal for…

•    Making music CD's
•    Storing photos
•    Storing permanent data


Not so good for…

•    Transferring files as they can only be used once


CD-RW/CD+RW

A CD-RW (Compact Disc Rewritable) and CD+RW can be recorded onto as many times as desired. Data can be overwritten and erased. Other than this, the CD-RW is identical to the CD-R. If it wasn't for their finite durability CD-RW’s and CD+RW’s could be reused endlessly.

Ideal for…

•    Transferring files
•    Holding temporary data

Not so good for…

•    Holding important permanent files-in case they are accidentally deleted

Double Density CD (DDCD)
This disc has a much greater storage capacity than an average CD-R or CD-RW.


Ideal for…
•    Backing up
•    Storing archival data

Enhanced CD
Enhanced CD (E-CD) is an audio CD with CD-ROM data added. CD-ROM data is added in the space not taken by audio. Recording artists can use this to include videos, lyrics, interviews or promo material. The E-CD can be played on a CD player but to view additional material you need access to a multimedia-capable device, such as a CD-i player, DVD-ROM, or CD-ROM drive.


Bridge Disks
A CD-Bridge disc holds extra information on a CD-ROM XA track. The disc can be played on either a CD-i player attached to a television, or a CD-ROM XA drive attached to a computer. Software such as Photo or a Karaoke CD player can provide lots of fun with the Bridge Disk.

DVD (Digital Versatile Disk): More than movies

Although DVD's have become more associated with video, they can also hold audio and computer data; hence their name Digital Versatile Disk. Like the CD, a DVD is a 120-mm by 1.2mm thick disk. However the DVD has more tracks than a CD so holds far more data. CD's have an unvarying storage capacity of 750MB, whereas DVD's store up to 17GB.

A range of acronyms is also used to distinguish between the different types and capabilities of DVD's available. These include DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW and DVD-Audio.
DVD-ROM

DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc - Read Only Memory) is similar to a movie DVD, but is designed for computers. The DVD-ROM stores data in the same way that the CD-ROM does and is used in the DVD-ROM drive of your PC.


The upside…

•    Larger storage space – hold more data than a CD
•    Can be filled with nearly everything; video, music or computer specific data
•    A base speed of 1.32 megabytes/sec


The downside…

•    Many older computers do not have a DVD-Rom drive installed
•    Can be recorded on only once


DVD-Audio

DVD-Audio (DVD-A) is designed for audio data and high-quality music. Its storage capacity is seven times that of a CD and provides at least twice the sound quality. Like the Enhanced CD, DVD-A can contain other data, providing the listener with extra information such as lyrics or images. DVD-A is predicted by many to replace the standard audio CD in the music industry.

DVD-R

Like the CD-R, the DVD-R (Digital Versatile Disc-Recordable) can be recorded on once.


The upside…

•    A DVD-R can contain an assortment of information; video, text, audio and computer data

•    A DVD-R can be played on your normal DVD video player but remember, if you have additional data not of the same format e.g. video and audio together, you will need a DVD-ROM or Multimedia player of some kind

•    A DVD-R is read at the same speed as commercially made DVD's


DVD-RW and DVD+RW
Similar to the CD-RW, a DVD-RW or DVD+RW (Digital Versatile Disc – Rewritable) can be recorded on, rewritten and erased multiple times. Other than this they are identical to the DVD-R.
DVD minus and plus are just different versions with the same functionality.

The Future of CD/DVD Storage

The majority of the technology industry predicts that soon DVD’s, with their larger storage capacity and faster access time, will replace CD’s. DVD-ROM drives are likely to be sold with new computer systems in the way that CD-ROM drives once were. However we are always on the cusp of newer technologies, such as the HD-ROM.

HD-ROM (High Density-Read Only Memory)

HD-ROM uses a more precise particle beam to write data. This enables information to be written on more durable materials such as metal so storage is virtually permanent. HD-ROM has hundreds of times the storage capacity of the CD-ROM.


Flash Drives

A Flash drive is a small portable memory stick that holds anywhere from 1Mb to 1GB of data. It is surprisingly lightweight and is often worn around the neck or carried as a funky key chain. They are compatible with any PC that has USB port and with Mac OS 9 and OS X, Windows 2000 and XP or Linux 2.4.17.


The upside…

•    Durable - more so than CD's or DVD's
•    No need for batteries or a separate power source 
•    Convenient - your computer should recognize the additional drive as soon as you insert it into the USB port
•    Ideal for backup
•    Larger storage capacity then many other portable devices
•    More portable than ZIP drives, CD's and Diskettes
•    Quick transfer rate (approx. 1Mb/sec)
•    Edit, rewrite, delete as many times as desired
•    Help desk personnel can use Flash Drives as a portable toolkit that includes system updates and recovery tools.


The downside…

•    More expensive than other portable devices
•    Viruses - The portability and compatibility of the Flash Drive increases the chance of spreading viruses. In many cases viruses carried by a Flash Drive will not be detected as most antivirus software is reactive and only recognizes known viruses
•    Theft - a Flash Drive can make it easier for data to be stolen from an unlocked PC 
•    Little Security - the size and weight of the Flash drive makes it very easy to misplace.  Most have little or no security features and data is accessed easily. Some Flash Drives do have built in security; either a password or in some cases a finger print system - but this comes at a price.

5 Reasons to Choose a Notebook Over a Computer Desktop

Many of us are so used to working on a computer desktop that when it comes time to purchase a new computer, we don't consider other options. Today, computer notebooks - which were once called laptops - offer a number of advantages over a computer desktop. Here are just five reasons why you should take a second look at notebooks.

1. Mobility

You might be used to pulling up a chair to your computer, but it makes much more sense to pull your computer up to your chair. Laptops can certainly be used at your desk, but you also have the option of bringing them to the spot where you're most comfortable. Maybe you'd like to surf the Web in the evening out in the living room or catch up on your favorite blogs before bedtime. Notebooks with wireless connectivity can travel with you throughout your home, so you can check your email or do your Internet shopping anywhere.

Of course, notebooks also make sense for those who are on the go. Students can take laptops to class and to the library, while businesspeople can take them along while traveling. With WiFi so widely available, it even makes sense to have a notebook while on vacation. With the right notebook, it's easy to take photos with your digital camera, upload them, and email them to friends and family before you even get back home. Or you can use it to write a vacation blog and include those pictures from your digital camera.

2. Better Displays

The size and quality of computer notebook displays has improved so dramatically that there's little difference between laptops and a computer desktop. For example, you can get Apple's MacBook with a 13.3-inch LCD widescreen (1280 x 800 pixels), a 15.4-inch LCD widescreen (1440 x 900 pixels) or a 17-inch widescreen (1680 x 1050 pixels). Similarly, the Compaq Presario has a 15.4-inch display.

3. Lighter Weight

Just a few years ago, even the lightest notebook was a pain to lug around. Today, though, laptops are increasingly easy on the back. The MacBook is slightly over an inch thick and the Toshiba Portege weighs in at about four pounds. While that's still heavy compared to come of the new ultralight convertibles (Fujitsu's LifeBook U810 weighs only a pound and half), it's a significant improvement over the old seven-pound laptops.

4. Better Computing and Battery Power

Historically, two drawbacks of notebooks were their limited RAM, limited space on the hard drive, and short battery life. Times have changed, though, and laptops now have as much power under the hood as their computer desktop cousins. The MacBook, for example, has 1GB of memory (configurable up to 4 GB) and a hard drive that's configurable to 250GB. This means that your software will hum right along and you'll be able to zip through programs as quickly and as easily as you do on your desktop. Likewise, batteries in today's notebooks don't heat up and don't conk out.

5. More Features

In older laptops, the computer's size and weight limited the number and types of features available. Today, with smaller processors and other components, there's room to pack more features into notebooks. For example, the MacBook has a DVD player, built-in webcam, built-in wireless capability, two USB ports and a FireWire port, built-in microphone, and audio and digital input/output.

There are so many advantages to owning notebooks that, before you buy your next computer, it's worth your while to take one for a spin.

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harware2

Hardware Komputer

Hardware Komputer adalah perangkat yang secara fisik dapat di lihat dan di raba, yang membentuk suatu kesatuan, sehingga dapat di fungsikan. Berdasarkan kegunaannya, perangkat keras Komputer di golongkan ke dalam tiga bagian, yaitu : Alat Input, Alat Proses, Alat Output, dan Alat Penyimpanan. Berikut Penjelasan bagian-bagian dari Hardware Komputer :

1. Alat Input

Alat input adalah alat untuk memasukkan program maupun data yang akan diproses oleh komputer.

Perangkat-Perangkat Alat Input

1.1 Keyboard

Keyboard adalah perangkat yang mempunyai tuts seperti pada mesin tik, yang di lengkapi beberapa tombol tambahan dengan berbagai fungsi.

1.2 Mouse

Mouse adalah perangkat yang berfungsi menggerakkan pointer, menunjuk perintah atau program pada layer monitor.

1.3 Scanner

Scanner adalah alat untuk mengkonversi gambar manual menjadi gambar digital, berupa data digital.

1.4 Floppy Disk Drive

Floppy disk drive adalah alat untuk menulis, membaca data, juga berfungsi sebagai alat output (perekam) data.

1.5 CD-ROM

CD-ROM adalah alat untuk membaca CD atau VCD pada komputer.

Beberapa kemampuan CD-ROM :
CD-ROM dengan kemampuan : 24x, 36x, 40x, 52x, 56x, dan seterusnya.

1.6 DVD-ROM

DVD-ROM adalah alat untuk membaca CD VCD DVD musik atau film yang berkualitas tinggi pada komputer.

1.7 CD-RW

CD-RW adalah alat untuk merekam (backup) data pada cd.

Beberapa kemampuan CD-RW :
CD-RW dengan kemampuan : 24x10x40, 32x10x40, 32x12x40, 40x12x40, 32x14x48, 52x24x48, 48x12x50, 52x32x52, dan seterusnya.

2. Alat Proses

Alat Proses atau CPU (Central Processing Unit), merupakan alat atau unit terpenting di dalam system komputer. Tugas utamanya adalah mengontrol keseluruhan system komputer selama pengolahan data berlangsung.

Perangkat-Perangkat Alat Proses

2.1 Casing

Casing adalah kotak pembungkus perangkat keras (hardware) di dalam CPU.

Bentuk-Bentuk Casing:

1. Desktop ( Horizontal )

- Slim Desktop
- Standar Desktop

2. Tower ( Vertikal )

- Mini/Middle Tower
- Full Tower

Jenis Casing

- Casing Jenis AT

- Casing Jenis ATX

Beberapa Case indicator yang Terdapat Pada Casing :

- Led HDD (lampu indikasi harddisk bila sedang membaca).
- Led Power (lampu indikasi power bila sedang menyala dan tombol reset)
- Speaker.
- Key lock.
- Dan Sebagainya.

2.2 Power Supply

Power supply adalah sebuah perangkat yang berfungsi menyalurkan arus listrik ke berbagai peralatan komputer yang terdapat di dalam CPU, Perangkat ini memiliki lima konektor atau lebih, yang dapat di sambungkan ke berbagai peralatan, seperti motherboard, harddisk, floppy disk drive, CD-ROM, dan sebagainya.

Jenis Power Supply :

- Power Supply AT à Konektor terdiri dari 12 pin

- Power Supply ATX à Konektor terdiri dari 20 pin


2.3 Motherboard adalah perangkat terpenting di dalam komputer yang di jadikan media atau tempat untuk memasang atau meletakkan beberapa peralatan seperti : Prosesor, Memory, Card VGA, sound card, card I/O, dan sebagainya.

Beberapa Jenis Motherboard Pentium

- Kelas AT486 Menggunakan Socket 3
- Kelas Pentium I Menggunakan Socket 7/8
- Kelas Pentium II Menggunakan Slot 1
- Kelas Pentium III Menggunakan Socket 370
- Kelas Pentium IV Menggunakan Socket 423/478

2.4 Prosesor

Prosesor adalah sebuah chip (mikroprosesor) yang merupakan otak dan pusat pengendalian berbagai perangkat komputer. Sehingga dapat bekerja satu sama lain.
2.5 Memory

Memory adalah perangkat yang berfungsi mengolah data dan instruksi. Semakin besar memory yang di sediakan, semakin banyak data maupun instruksi yang dapat di olahnya.

Beberapa Jenis Memory :

- RAM
- EDO-RAM (Extended Data Out)
- SD-RAM (Synchronous Dynamic RAM)
- DDR-SDRAM (Double Data Rate Synchronous DRAM)
- RD-RAM (Rambus Dynamic RAM)

2.6 Card VGA

Card VGA adalah perangkat berupa rangkaian elektronik berbentuk seperti Kaartu, yang berfungsi menghubungkan motherboard dengan monitor.

Beberapa Jenis Card VGA :

- Card VGA ISA
- Card VGA EISA
- Card VGA PCI
- Card VGA AGP

2.7 Card I/O
Card I/O adalah sebuah card yang berfungsi menghubungkan motherboard dengan alat input dan alat output. Ia juga berfungsi menghubungkan motherboard dengan harddisk dam floppy disk drive.

2.8 Sound Card
Sound card adalah perangkat multimedia berbentuk seperti kartu, yang berfungsi mengolah suara pada komputer.

2.9 Harddisk

Harddisk adalah perangkat komputer yang berfungsi menyimpan data dalam kapasitas besar.

2.10 Heatsink Fan
Heatsink adalah perangkat yang berfungsi menyerap panas pada prosesor.

2.11 Kabel

Kabel adalah sekumpulan baris kabel yang berfungsi menghubungkan komponen komputer yang satu dengan yang lain, seperti menghubungkan harddisk, floppy disk drive dengan motherboard dan sebagainya.

3. Alat Output

Alat Output adalah alat yang menampilkan hasil pengolahan data yang dilakukan CPU.

Beberapa Alat Output :

3.1 Monitor
Monitor adalah alat yang berfungsi menampilkan data atau informasi dalam bentuk teks dan grafik.

Beberapa Jenis Monitor :

• CTR adalah jenis monitor berbentuk tabung, Karena menggunakan tabung display.
• Flat panel/LCD (liquid Crystal Display) adalah jenis monitor yang memiliki permukaan datar, ukuran ringkas, dan konsumsi daya sangat rendah.

3.2 Printer

Printer adalah alat cetak informasi atau hasil kerja komputer.

Beberapa Jenis Printer :

- Printer Dot Matrik
- Printer Deskjet
- Printer Laserjet

4. Alat Penyimpanan

Alat Penyimpanan adalah media yang dapat menyimpan data secara permanen dalam jangka waktu panjang, yang suatu ketika dapat diambil atau dibaca kembali. Selain alat penyimpanan harddisk yang tergolong ke dalam alat proses, masih terdapat alat penyimpanan lainnya seperti :
4.1 Floppy Disk / Disket

Floppy Disk adalah sebuah alat penyimpanan data yang terdiri dari sebuah medium penyimpanan magnetis bulat yang tipis dan lentur dan dilapisi lapisan plastik berbentuk persegi atau persegi panjang.

Beberapa Kapasitas Floppy Disk
- Floppy Disk 5 1/4 inci, kapasitas 360 KB
- Floppy Disk 3 1/2 inci, kapasitas 720 KB
- Floppy Disk 5 1/4 inci, kapasitas 1,2 MB
- Floppy Disk 3 1/2 inci, kapasitas 1,44 MB

4.2 USB Flash Drive

USB Flash Drive adalah media penyimpanan data yang menggunakan port USB.

Beberapa Kapasitas USB Flash Drive :
512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 MB, 8 MB, 18 MB dan seterusnya.

4.3 CD (Compac Disk)

CD (Compac Disk) adalah media penyimpanan yang berbentuk piringan, berfungsi menyimpan data hingga 700 Mbyte.