Modern technology advances at a speed that is often hard to keep up with whether it be electronics, hard-ware or gadgets, but choosing the right technology for you home or office is an important decision. The quality and efficiency of today's machines vary greatly and can make a difference to productivity and convenience. Printers are one machine that have advanced significantly over the years. Now models are available with multi-functions and higher print qualities. The Dell 1130 is one laser printer that suits a home or small home office owner. It boasts great value for a start with a 22% lower cost per page than a competitor. This printer is versatile in terms of use. It can be used as a personal printer but its 250 pages covered paper tray and productivity of a 10,000 monthly duty cycle means it can be used for higher volume environments like a home office. The output capacity for the Dell 1130 is 80 pages which is high for the printer's size. Other specifications in terms of productivity are also impressive. Up to 18 letter size pages can be printed per minute which is higher than many competitors. It also has 8MB of SDRAM which saves the owner from needing to buy more which is often an extra that is costly. The toner for this printer is also designed to save money with 1,500 page cartridges. There is high-yield toner available at 2,500 pages which is great value for money and requires less frequent servicing saving time and increasing productivity. Dell also have introduced a toner management system. This provides intelligent toner monitoring so that you are alerted that your toner is running low before it is too late and you need to change it immediately. The quality of the print outs are high with a 1200 x 1200 dots per inch resolution. This matches many larger, heavy-duty office printers and can produce professional level images. The size of this printer is much smaller than a large office printer. This makes it appropriate for a single office room, a home office or the home in general. It measures 360 x 389 x 197mm and weighs 16lbs. The Dell 1130 is appears to be a good printer in terms of it's price and appropriate market. It is durable enough for a home office and sophisticated enough to create quality print outs and money saving settings and options. |
Sunday 2 December 2012
Dell 1130 Printer and toner specs
Dell Inspiron 660 Overview - What Can You Expect From This Affordable Desktop?
It's easy to match your system with your own personal style when it comes to the Dell Inspiron 660. This new desktop is available in variety of colors, including black with silver trimming, Formosa red, deep purple, peacock blue, and solid white. The black is the standard option. The 2nd Generation Intel Core processor is designed to meet your everyday need, with a bit of power to spare. Edit videos and photos, play games, create documents, and stay connected with friends and co-workers. In addition to the Intel Core processor, this Inspiron model has the following specs:
If the 2nd generation processor isn't enough, Dell offers the option to upgrade to a 3rd generation i5 processor. You can turn this desktop into your entertainment hub, 8-in-1 media card reader, HDMI capabilities, and more. Connect the system to digital cameras, an HDTV, and other peripherals. There is plenty of room for a digital media collection. Save thousands and thousands of music and video files on the large hard drive. Music is delivered via high quality audio thanks to the integrated Dell AX210 speakers. Thanks to the integrated 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi, you can connect your desktop to your home or office network. Reduce cable clutter by keeping the 660 in any room where there is a wireless signal. Some of the software that comes with this model includes Dell Stage Software and SyncUP (powered by Nero. The software makes it easy to access and manage your multimedia library. The SyncUp keeps your media updated on all of your supported devices. It detects all new music files, photos, and video files across the entire network. The default graphics choice might not be enough to power your favorite games. It can handle some games, just as long as the settings are kept on low or medium, but not the games with demanding graphics. Fortunately, you can upgrade the graphics to a NVIDIA GeForce 1 GB video card. If you want more than a standard DVD player and writer, you can add a Blu-Ray combo drive to your computer. Connectivity ports include 4 USB 3.0, 2 USB 2.0, VGA, HDMI, 3-stack audio jacks, RJ-45, microphone jack, and headphone jack. One of the best things about this desktop is that it's affordable. It offers a lot of performance and speed, and costs no more than $700, depending on how you customize it. Be sure to check out Dell Inspiron 660 coupons to find out how you can lower the price. Overall, it's a great desktop that's worth every dime. Check out Dell Inspiron 660 coupons and promo codes to see how much you can save on your order. Dell often offers exclusive online discounts for its desktops, notebooks, and other accessories. You can get an awesome desktop like the Inspiron 660 at a very low price. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7371677 |
Secure USB Flash Drives - The Smart Way To Store Files
It wasn't too long ago that the floppy drive was the most popular way for people to store or backup small amounts of information from their computers. In fact it was only a few years ago that you'd find pretty much every PC, Mac or Linux box with a floppy drive fitted but those days are long gone; the proof of this being the fact that no computers sold today come with a floppy drive as standard. Over the last 15 years or so a lot of products have come onto the market with the hope of knocking the floppy drive off its perch and becoming the King of portable storage themselves. There were some pretty cool attempts too with the Iomega ZIP drive and LS-120 drives deserving special mention here - they came close but no cigar. What actually sealed the fate of the floppy drive was the introduction and immediate popularity of the Universal Serial Bus (USB). Once USB memory sticks started appearing on the market the popularity of floppy drives started to fade very, very quickly. Just for once computer users and fans everywhere had a form of mass storage that was fast, highly portable and very small and could also be connected to any computer with a USB port! So instead of having to carry around boxes of floppy discs or bundles of DVDs, all of those same files could fit on a single USB flash drive and you'd have space to spare too. USB flash drives also pretty much completely removed the problem of media corruption that happened with other types of digital storage like floppy and tape drives for example. Flash drives are far from perfect though and the biggest problem they have is their size which means they're pretty easy to either lose or have stolen. It would be very hard for somebody to steal a bunch of DVDs from under your nose or out of your pocket but USB flash drives were so tiny you wouldn't even notice your drive had been stolen until it was too late. Obviously this was a huge, huge concern for any business where sensitive data was stored on this type of drive and of course for personal users where they ran the risk of identity theft because copies of their private digital documentation has been stolen. So people started looking for and creating solutions to this problem. It didn't take long for encryption programs specifically designed for USB drives to become available and as a first step they provide a reasonable level of protection for your data. The problem with software encryption is that it can be worked on and eventually cracked, so using just software encryption on your USB drive isn't going to offer any real protection. Eventually manufacturers started to take the demand for secure USB flash drives seriously and that was then we started to see drives with 256-bit AES encryption appearing. This meant that any business or home computer user could enjoy all the benefits of US military level encryption, giving them almost total peace of mind. On top of that some secure USB drives started to feature cases that were tamper proof - you'd have to destroy the USB drive to actually access the internal memory chips. Then the final touch was to introduce a secure USB flash drive that was both tamper-proof and also had hardware based digital encryption too and if you want to know more about this exciting range of USB drives just check out the resource link at the end of this article. Are you looking for the most secure USB flash drive on the market then why not check out the Apricorn Aegis flash drives? They offer incredible security for your data. |
Laptops for Graphic design
Nowadays laptops have evolved to the point that they can take on tasks desktops are used for. These include games, watching movies in HD resolutions, 3D applications and even graphics design. The main advantage of the laptop will always be its portability. A laptop allows you to take your work with you everywhere you go, whether you're a workaholic or just need to play casual games and watch movies. This guide is meant to teach you what to look for in a laptop that you'll use for demanding applications like graphic design programs. What not to get: If you're in the market for a new laptop or a portable work machine, you should not choose a netbook, even if it's extremely light and looks appealing, since these systems are configured for people who are always on the road and need to keep in touch with the online world. These systems can run basic office applications, but will stagger if you try to run Photoshop or Corel Draw on them, since they don't pack that much power. Since most graphics designers work with multiple such programs simultaneously, you'll need something that can handle multitasking, and a netbook or a tablet PC is not that kind of computer. Average laptops are good systems to use for such tasks. They will run most applications and can even be used for basic graphic design. These systems keep their portability and can be carried to everyday meetings or classes and they don't climb that high on the price scale. Aside from doing basic graphics editing, you can still use them to watch movies and play games, keep in touch with friends online and so on. Some basic features to look for in such laptops would be a hard drive of at least 300GB, 3GB or more RAM and a screen size of 15 inches or more. Graphic design programs require a lot of power in the processing area as well as the graphics area. Some might say that the best laptops for graphics design, might coincide in configuration with gaming laptops, and this is not far from the truth. Gaming laptops place emphasis on the graphics card installed, since this is the most used component in games, and on second place comes the amount of system memory installed and the processor. A good graphics design laptop will carry a decent processor, about 4-8 GB of RAM and a decent graphics card. Plus the hard drive will be either over 7200rpm, if it's a standard hard disk drive. A great configuration would be to get a laptop that carries an SSD drive, since these can move data with up to 10 times the speed of regular hard disk drives. Here's a quick check list you should try to remember when you go shopping for a graphic design laptop: The Storage It should start at a minimum of 500GB, since you'll be storing large files and always need the extra space for future projects. The Memory You should get a laptop with at least 4GB of RAM, but aiming higher will provide even better results in terms of performance. The Processor The CPU should be a multi-core either from Intel or AMD. This will allow you to do multitasking and jump from one program to the next without having to close them in order to save up on system resources. The Graphics If you run into a laptop with the latest Ivy Bridge processor installed, then the integrated Intel HD 4000 graphics will suffice for a graphics design laptop, but if it's something else, then you should check only laptops that carry a dedicated graphics card with at least 1GB of dedicated memory. Screen Size Graphic design is all about the image and the final output. The screen size should be at least in the 15.6 inches range, but should you find something with a screen size of 17 inches or up, you should focus more on that, since more pixel real estate will allow you to work a lot better, without having to squirm when you edit an image. |
OEM Vs After-Market Printer Cartridges, And The Winner Is?
Breaking the myth that after-market cartridges will destroy your printer or void your new printer warranty is what I'd like to address in this article. I have serviced thousands of businesses in person over the past nearly 20 years in the after-market print supplies industry. From companies with 1-2 employees to Fortune 100 Corporations. Some of my clients use 1 or less cartridges in an entire year, others purchase tens of thousands of dollars worth on a regular monthly basis. And all using after-market inks and toners. Before we go any farther I'd like to introduce the terminology used in the industry so that we are all on the same page. So many people I see on a daily basis react violently when I first begin talking about my product(s) and eventually, as they become educated, leave the notion that "All 'refilled' cartridges are garbage and all you want to do is ruin my printer." Like cars, and hospitals, and lawyers, and insurance sales people... NOT ALL CARTRIDGES ARE CREATED EQUAL. 1. OEM Cartridge - This is a product that is manufactured by the company that built the printer, also known as Original Equipment Manufacturer, but it is not necessarily the "best" and it most certainly is not warranted as long as a lot of other products. 2. Refilled - This refers to a cartridge (ink or toner) that was simply refilled - nothing more, nothing less. You may have seen kits you can purchase to refill your own cartridges, this is fine as long as you don't care about quality and/or potential damage to your printer. 3. Re-manufactured - This refers to a product that has gone through a reverse engineering process. In other words, it has been taken apart and certain components have been replaced along with the cartridge being refilled. 4. Generic - This refers to a product manufactured by a company that would prefer to not be known (hmmm, I wonder why that would be?). It is a knock off and may or may not be re-manufactured. Stay away from this product unless you can learn more about it. 5. Drill & Fill - Oh how I hate this junk. Someone just drills a hole in the cartridge housing (ink or toner) puts more ink or toner inside and puts a plug in it. Basically the same as your refill kit for home use, but some resellers actually buy and then resell drill & filled cartridges to unsuspecting customers. Most of the people I've run into who are frustrated about after-market cartridges ended up with this stuff because they were trying to save money, but HONESTLY didn't do ANY research and then they blindly label ALL after-market cartridges as junk and harmful to printers. Seriously folks, there are some "BUYERS" who are just as "defective" as this junk! 6. Compatible - This is a cartridge that may well be re-manufactured... the right way. A truly re-manufactured toner cartridge has been ENTIRELY disassembled, thoroughly cleaned, ALL the internal components replaced with brand new, refilled to the OEM specifications with a product equal to or better than the OEM for maximum image quality and page yield. For inks it's slightly different: the contact plates are thoroughly cleaned, micro-chips replaced, print head and interior electrostatically or chemically cleaned and then prepped for refill with the proper grade of ink to provide maximum image quality and page yield. 7. Genuine Compatible - This is a brand new cartridge made for use in a particular printer type. Here I would like to reference a brand I've been particularly impressed with, mediaSciences. This company manufactures their own Solid Ink for use in Xerox's Phaser printers, as well as building their own clear-case toner cartridges for use in Xerox's laser Phaser printers. |
3d printing and the future
3D printing is really the future of printing technology. You will be able to turn your dream into a reality with this special technology, which will be tremendously beneficial for us in the coming days. What is 3D Printing? 3D printing is an output of the recent technological advancement. It is a specific way of manufacturing some solid elements, with the help of a computer-controlled printer. A special additive technique is utilized here for the entire manufacturing process. If you can design a 3D model in your computer using some graphics software, you will be able to physically generate exactly the same model with the use of the 3D printer. Recently 3D printers are used for creating a variety of components. For example, the parts of an automobile or an aircraft can be produced by 3D printing. Even the human bones can be manufactured with the use of this 3D printing process. Future of 3D Printing Surely with the help of new digital manufacturing technology called 3D printing, we will be able to make something beyond our imagination. You must have seen the 'matter replicators' in the famous movie 'Star Trek', which will be a reality in the near future. Suppose you will see a beautiful mug or a show piece in your friend's house. If you really like it, you will be able to make the exact replica of that using a 3D printer. Suppose you will find an important component of a machine broken or not working properly. With the assistance of 3D printing technology, you will be able to print or make the exact component that you need within a very short period. The benefits that the 3D printers will provide will make our life very easy and comfortable. It may even happen that large buildings will be made with the use 3D printing technology. Research has been going on to get the quality building components manufactured using 3D printing facilities on site, with improved properties. NASA has already made a test to use a 3D printer in an International Space Station. In future, spacecraft parts will be manufactured using a 3D printer as and when required during a space mission to Mars, Venus or Saturn. In short, impossible will be possible with the use of 3D printing technology in future. We have to wait a few years for that auspicious moment to come. But it will definitely be a reality. |
The New Ipad how is it better?
It's been just a few years since Apple's iPad introduced us in 2010 to the concept of the tablet- the internet-enabled computer that works like a smartphone but is bigger and better. Having created the market, the iPad is in a state of continual evolution as it seeks to take advantage of improving technology to stay ahead of rivals like the Amazon Fire and Samsung Galaxy. So this year Apple released its latest version, the iPad3, into the world, which as you would expect from one of the world's great technology companies, continues to deliver. Visually very similar to the previous model, the new generation iPad differs physically only at the margins. It is a mere 0.6mm deeper than the iPad2's modest 8.8mm, and weighs in just a little heavier, having piled on 39 grams to add to its predecessor's 613 grams. Such minor details will probably go unnoticed by most users, but the difference in terms of screen resolution is something that certainly won't. This is the most noticeable area of improvement between the two generations. While the previous iPad had 1024x768 pixels to play with, the new iPad has a far higher resolution 2048x1536 pixel retina display, so densely packed together that it's impossible to pick out individual pixels at normal viewing distance. The result is greater clarity and definition of image, making for even better graphic-rich gaming and all round every day use. This improved ability to view images is complemented by an improved ability to capture them, thanks to a new and enhanced rear-facing iSight camera that goes from a mere 0.7 megapixels up to 5-megapixels, with an accompanying facility to shoot 1,080p HD video, compared with the previous 720p. With Apple's photo-editing software, iPhoto, now available for the iPad, this is even more a 'must have' multi-function tool for personal and business use. Also available with the 4G version is a Personal Hotspot feature that allows you to share a fast network connection with up to five other devices. At the heart of the iPad's new armoury lies a serious hardware upgrade - the introduction of a faster 'quad-core' 1GHz Apple A5X processor that Apple says has twice the processing power of its predecessor. While all these new features will certainly consume extra power, users won't be disadvantaged by finding themselves running out of power any faster, as a more powerful battery compensates to ensure that a useful 10 hours of active life remains the norm. For connectivity, the new iPad opts for the 'lightning' connector, more durable and 80% smaller than the 30-pin connector used by the iPad 2, and a much neater refinement that better suits the new model's greater sophistication. One welcome addition over the previous iPad is the arrival of Siri, the iPhone's voice-activated virtual personal assistant, to give even greater usability and functionality. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7389734 |
HDMI Cables: Which Cable Is Best for Your TV and Home Theatre?
With home theatre systems getting increasingly complex and confusing, HDMI cables offer some refreshing simplicity. Carrying both audio and video signals, a single cable is usually all you'll need between your TV and Blu-ray player, games console or digital set top box. There are many myths about HDMI performance, with a lot of misinformation (intentional or unintentional) suggesting more expensive models offer better audio/video quality. The following guide will summarise the basic facts and fictions of the format, helping you quickly and easily find the right pick for your own needs. Understanding Different HDMI Versions Every few years, the standard of HDMI cables is improved with a new version. At the time of writing, most (if not all) HDMI cables on the market will be "Version 1.4" or the more recent "Version 1.4b". Generally speaking, the best method is to buy the latest specification. Every new version is completely backwards compatible, meaning it can perform 100% its predecessors' tasks. Understanding the Four Types of HDMI Cable As of version 1.4b, shoppers have the choice of four cable types.
Understanding "Quality" Many retailers will sell drastically more expensive HDMI cables with the suggestion of higher audio and video quality. However, with the exception of the above differences, all modern Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7398619 |
How To Buy Cheap Inkjet Cartridges and Save Money?
Inkjet cartridges are the most used variety of printing ink utilized in modern printers. However, this may prove to be an expensive investment when used on a continued basis in personal or business settings. However, there are methods to limit the budget involved in the purchase of these highly useful products by looking for cheaper products. With several manufacturers providing their clients with inkjet cartridges, the prices have drastically reduced. By conducting a meticulous research on the best deals and implementing certain measures can help to bring down the costs, substantially. How to buy cheap inkjet cartridges and save money is the question which plagues entrepreneurs and computer owners, worldwide. It is not a hopeless case, as the modern world has opened up numerous opportunities for buyers to obtain highly useful products at reduced prices. This requires a bit of ingenuity and a study of the various available market deals. Depending on the type of the printer owned, a decent deal on the ink cartridges can be gained, both from the virtual world and from the brick-and-mortar shop. Read on to discover how you can buy a durable and performance-driven inkjet cartridge that also helps you save a fortune. Know the requirements: The very first step towards finding cheap inkjet cartridges is to know how many are required in a specific time period. This helps the computer users to obtain a ball-park figure on their budget, and be prepared for the spending eventuality. The information regarding the time duration for using a single cartridge is generally printed on the product itself. This can be noted with due care and used for calculations. Also, the manufacturer's website, information given on the printer, and the user's manual for the printer/cartridge can divulge the pertinent information to the interested audience. Do the necessary research: Those in need to print regularly should possess knowledge on the locations of purchase, even on a short leash. These locations may include the office supply stores, drug stores, departmental stores and electronics and hardware stores, and also the flea markets in the local area. Local papers also carried information regarding places where it is possible to buy the necessary printer cartridge without much ado. This way, besides the location and information regarding the various stores, the prices involved for the purchase can also be determined. This in turn helps to find the ideal places where reduced rates can be obtained for the products. Go for recycled products Recycled ink cartridges can be purchased at reduced costs as compared to the use and throw varieties. The overall condition of the used product gets checked thoroughly, prior to recycling it. Any component which seems to be damaged is changed with its brand-new counterpart. The ultimate assembly is as good as new. This kind of ink cartridge is available for a low price as compared to a fresh product. Bulk purchases: |
What About Touch Screen Computers
Touch screen computers are the most talked about devices of recent, and for good reasons. These are computers that you can use simply by touching its screen with your hands. This type of computer is most ideal for those people that would like to be able to use their computer with a certain level of ease and comfort. If you haven't used one of these computers before, I'm sure you will be surprised by how easy they are to get to grips with. It's not a device that you would expect to be able to immediately be able to use, but the reality is that it is. It's also the reason why it's so popular amongst the masses today. The practicality of this device is what makes it that obvious purchase for a great many people. When you compare this device to your traditional computer system, it's fair to say that the touch screen is going to cost considerably more. However, that's because of the amount of value you're getting out of it. Is it really worth purchasing a system that your unlikely to ever use on a regularly basis. You might as well invest heavy and purchase the best possible system you can get for the money. With the touch screen computers, there are a number of additional accessories that you do not have to purchase, but would otherwise have to if you purchased a regular machine. The good thing about this revelation is that, not only are you getting the most value for your money when you purchase the computer, but you also get to save money, as you no longer have to go out and purchase the various peripherals that you've become accustomed to. If you're currently interested in purchasing a touch screen computer system, then I'm here to tell you that you should definitely go ahead with it. These devices are very popular right now and so, shouldn't be too difficult for you to locate. You should also endeavour to find as much information as you can about touch screen computers before you part with your money. Doing all the background research will ensure that, when it comes time to the purchase, you get the most value for your money. Overspending isn't something that you should dabble in, especially when you consider the fact that all the information is around, waiting for you to find it and read it. Uchenna Ani-Okoye has been writing articles online for many years now. For information on electronic gadgets and computers, including any questions that you may want answered, advice on specific products and recommendations, check out his latest websites Kobo Glo Review and Low Virtual Memory Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7401410 |
Taking Advantage of CSS3 Features in Web Development
One of the latest web development tools to present web content is Cascading Style Sheets (CSS)3. It has attractive features that provide flexibility to web developers in presenting the content on the website innovatively. Many businesses are using CSS3 in their web development projects to make the maximum benefit from their website. There are few features of CSS3 that helps in web development process. Some of them are below: 1. Allows quick loading of web pages by storing the style sheet in the cached memory. The user requires less bandwidth to access the web pages. 2. Enables you to develop a dynamic or interactive website by combining HTML with CSS3. 3. Provides a consistent environment to the web pages to help developers focus on other properties rather than worry about the change in elements of web pages. 4. Allows developers to build an appealing website by using CSS3 that can control color, style information and even fonts of the web pages. 5. The CSS3 developed website is compatible with all web browsers to increase reach and visibility of business website. 6. Allows you to take print outs of the web pages in the same original color with help of CSS3. 7. Provides a lot of flexibility to web developers during and after development stage by changing the position of web elements as per requirements. 8. The users can customize and update the website using CSS3 to suffice user requirements. In addition to this, CSS3 create neat HTML codes that enable search engine spiders to crawl the content efficiently. This allows the website to secure a good search engine placement for higher acceptance and popularity. If you think CSS3 is a good choice to develop a website, you can consult with web developers who are experienced in using this technology. Moreover, the CSS3 is also used with HTML 5 technology to develop cross-compatible website solutions for businesses. You can prioritize your requirements and choose the technology that can meet all your needs effectively. A well-known and reliable website development company can help you to make the right decision. You can search for a company that has plenty of experience in developing a variety of website solutions. You can refer their portfolio and read their testimonials to make the final decision. Once you are sure, you can sign a non-disclosure agreement with the website company to secure your company information and unique idea. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7395910 |
Best Web Browsers: Rekonq Browser Review
Rekonq is the default web browser in Kubuntu. This lightweight application loads web pages fast and comes with many great features such as a unique loading address bar and tabbed browsing. Many users claim that Rekonq is an excellent example of lean, straight-forward open-source software. Smooth scrolling, auto scrolling, and RSS support are other major highlights. This easy to use browser is based on WebKit and has a minimalist interface that most users prefer nowadays. Rekonq allows you to load sessions, store sessions, preview web pages, and manage multiple tasks. Its development is based on the advanced KDE technologies and on the amazing features provided by the WebKit rendering engine. Like Google Chrome, Rekonq has an integrated address bar where you can enter URLs, search the web, and view your navigation history. This URL bar also shows when a page is being loaded. Users can also rearrange tabs with the mouse, search only parts of the URL from the location bar, and track downloads history. Other important features include: • Java and Flash support Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7185450 |
How To Install Programs In Kubuntu, Linux Using Adept Manager
| Installing Applications in Linux has Never Been Easier! Adept Manager is a program that comes installed with Kubuntu Linux that allows you to manage installing and removing applications on your Linux system. To use Adept Manager open the program from your "K Menu" under "System". Once you have the program open you can use the "Search" utility at the top of Adept Manager to find the program you are looking for. For our example let's install Firefox. Type "Firefox" into the "Search" field and Adept Manager will return several search results that have Firefox in the name or description. Scroll down the list and look for the current version of Firefox. (At the time of this writing the two current versions of Firefox are 2.0 and 3.0) From the list let's select "firefox-2". We can tell that we are selecting the correct package by checking the package "Description" in the right side column. Once you click on the package name a menu will open up. In the menu click the "Request Install" button. Now click the "Apply Changes" button at the top of Adept Manager. Adept Manager will now install the selected software onto your system. You will see a prompt that displays the download status as Adept Manager downloads the needed files for installation. Once the files have been downloaded, Adept Manager will install the new software onto your system. When Adept Manager has finished installing the new software you can locate the application through your K-Menu under the appropriate menu category. In this case, Firefox should be located under the "Internet" menu. You have now successfully installed a new program in Linux. You can use Adept Manager to install a wide variety of programs for Linux if you are using Kubuntu. For a more detailed version of this guide please check out my website: Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1183627 |
How to Get World of Warcraft to Run on Kubuntu
One of the more popular games that people want to play on their Linux machines is World of Warcraft. One of the big problems is that this is actually Windows software which by default does not work with Linux since it's a completely different operating system and different file structure. There is an easy way to install this software to your Kubuntu machine. Many of these steps will be the same for Debian based distributions. The first piece of software that you need is WineHQ. This can be found in the software manager. This will help Windows executables to work in Kubuntu. Find it, download it, and it will install itself. You will find the WineHQ software in your menu once it's properly installed. For one reason or another, it's best to run a different EXE file on your machine first before installing World of Warcraft. Be sure to take any executable file that you already have and run that once to make sure that WineHQ is actually working on your machine. Then look for a software in the repositories called "PlayOnLinux". This will help with the installation of multiple CDs which Warcraft will require. Download and run this program. Find the install tool for Warcraft in this program and run that. Then follow the prompts that you get to install the program. At this point the software is installed and ready to be used. There may be some issues that you run into. If the program happens to be slow or lagging, there are a couple things you need to check on. The first is to make sure your graphics card has the proper drivers. Some manufacturers do not make cards that work with Linux at all. Others have drivers made for Linux which you need to have downloaded. Another thing to check is in the Wine configuration. There are different compatibility modes to choose from like Windows XP mode versus Windows 2000 mode. Change these and open the game to see if it fixes any issues that you might have. It's possible to install World of Warcraft to Kubuntu. Learn what pieces of software you need to make this work and some basic tips on setting everything up. Phil has been writing articles for a number of years for his many websites on different subjects. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3881345 |
Nanotechnology Products For Cosmetics
Most of the major companies for cosmetics are manufacturing nanotechnology products. They are usually used in famous products such as sunscreens and anti-aging products. But what does nanotechnology really mean? Actually it is a field of science and technology which aims to control matter with regards to molecular and atomic levels. It can make compounds too small and therefore delivers quicker and more effective results. It can also make products cleaner, stronger, lighter and most of all less expensive. However, you should understand that this particular type of technology is not yet thoroughly tested which means that it is not certain if it is really safe most especially if you apply it in the most delicate part of your body such as your face. The FDA has not yet made a lot of research about this. It seems that there have been no reported cases of adverse effects yet. However, there are some experts which are wondering about the safety of these products since when particles will become smaller, new chemical properties will emerge. Since these nanoparticles are very small then they can quickly slip through your skin layers. This means that it will have an interaction with your bloodstream and immune system. The result can be toxic and it can possible damage your tissues. All major cosmetics companies which are producing nano products are always testing their products and they make sure that they are following all laws in order to insure the safeness of their products. However, the FDA will only investigate the safeness of a particular product once it is already in the market. The testing for cosmetics which are using nanoparticles still continues. One of the most alarming issues of consumers is that it can be toxic. Cosmetic manufacturers are producing nanotechnology products because they are less expensive and at the same time it provides faster results and a lot of benefits. Cosmetic companies are selling these skin care products because they claim that they can provide more effective results. Most people are choosing skin care products which are free of parabens such as natural or organic products. When choosing cosmetics you should be aware that these products contain some chemicals which can enter your bloodstream and may harm your body as well. Before buying a certain product it would be best to consult your dermatologist. Think twice and avoid taking everything that is said by the salesperson. Maybe these benefits may happen but only for a short term. The best thing about nano products is it can deliver quick results. However before applying it to your face you have to read the labels carefully. Learn about all the ingredients and learn everything about each ingredient. The idea about nanotechnology is it can reduce the ingredients of the cosmetics into a nano size form. It is usually too tiny which can be 1/1000 of a human hair. The idea behind this new technology is that if the particle is too small then it can provide better results. These nano particles will be absorbed by the skin and it will directly go to the lower levels of your skin where it can provide the needed benefits. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7395275 |
The LXE Thor - The Powerful Compact Computer Akin the Nordic God
The LXE Thor is a perfectly compact vehicle-mount computer which features a strong 8-inch touch display and also an additional QWERTY keyboard for those who are not comfortable with touch-screen. The Intel Atom-powered Thor can be used and operated with the help of the Windows Embedded Standard platform or simply with Windows CE 6.0. LXE introduced the device in early 2011 for presenting a smart, flexible and versatile solution for different markets. The compact computer has a footprint of 10.6 x 8.4 inches and resembles a netbook in size. It weighs a bit hefty with 5.5 pounds but because it is going to be carried on a vehicle one needs to keep it rugged. The Thor's resistive touch display features WVGA 800 x 480 pixel resolution which is average in normal terms. The display includes an LED backlight specifically for indoor use and a bright LED for outdoor use. The LXE Thor has a 1.6GHz Intel Atom Z530 processor which is built to withstand industrial and embedded applications with ample use in industrial and vertical market tablets. The ability to run apps determines the purchase decision of vehicle-mount computers. Some software is specifically for Windows CE and the standard version. LXE designed the Thor in such a way that it can be run on Windows CE 6.0 as well as Windows Embedded Standard. The device usually carries 1GB of RAM and 1GB of Flash. Alternatively, one can opt for 2GB of RAM and 4 or 8GB of Flash. As far as ruggedness of the device goes, LXE designed Thor to handle harsh conditions involved with vehicle use. The device is made according to IP66 specifications which mean it can withstand dust and water from all directions. It is also vibration-proof and can run even in drastic temperatures. The Thor can be mounted anywhere and anyhow. Also, the front panel and some parts are easily field-replaceable. LXE is aware that some applications are touch-based and there is an optional keyboard too. The display gets to be small but the device presents a large display with full-featured QWERTY keyboard including a numeric keypad and easy to press function keys. The Thor makes use of vehicle power whereas the company also provides external converters for AC or VDC (60 to 150V). It can work with a quick-mount smart dock and an internal battery which needs to be charged frequently. It can be moved hence, to a new location without having to close down. It can be operated for brief period. All are feeling the need of wireless communication capabilities in their vehicles. LXE Thor is perfectly suited for all conditions and includes usual WiFi and Bluetooth while those who want added internet access or wireless capabilities, one can opt for internal Gobi 2000 WWAN module along with an assisted GPS feature. "Thor" is the name of a hammer-wielding Nordic god and hence is named so to convey the power of the device and its credibility as a feature-rich compact computer. It blends the best features of other vehicle-mount tablets and stands on its own. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7400973 |
Mobile Devices Become Powerful Microphones
The recent obsession with technology is over connectivity and pairing devices with other devices. Creating a universal connectivity system improves our functionality as users and simply makes life easier. So, not only are computer and cell phone manufacturers pushing for connectivity, but software developers and producers are doing the same. Several technological products are useful in our life, but if they aren't connected by some system then it's difficult to transfer information and data we need. To eliminate the complication of connectivity, leaders in the field of technology offer solutions that users need to share anything and everything. Connectivity isn't just for a cell phone and computer. It's for professional software as well. Dragon NaturallySpeaking Legal is a dictation software for the legal field that provides workflow solutions. This software is a great tool for legal professionals, but is even better because it provides the connectivity that professionals need. To use dictation software, a microphone of some sort is needed. However, some professionals prefer to use devices they already have instead of purchasing a new device. So, Dragon NaturallySpeaking Legal integrates connectivity with smartphones. More people own a smartphone today, especially professionals of any field. So, if they already have an advanced device, it doesn't make sense for them to purchase something else to communicate with the software they are using. Instead, they want to use their smartphone as the microphone and now they can. With Dragon NaturallySpeaking Legal, professionals can connect directly to the software they are using. Connectivity makes dictation even easier. Legal professionals don't even need to be in front of their computer to create and edit documents. With the use of their smartphone, they can record files directly on the phone and then upload the file later. Once the file is uploaded, Dragon does all the work by transcribing the speech into text. Not only does this provide connectivity that professionals need, but it allows them to go mobile. No matter what type of smartphone a legal professional has, iPhone or Android, Dragon is compatible with both operating systems and provides the tools professionals need to do their job. With connectivity and mobility, legal professionals can cut documentation time and have more time for other tasks. Documentation is tedious and burdensome, but now the right tools are available to make it easier than ever. The tools are available and always getting better. Technology only improves and evolves as time goes on, so this is only the beginning. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7401894 |
Exploring the Internet of Things
| nternet of Things is not a new notion. It's been proposed in differing forms over a period of more than 10 years. The IoT links uniquely identifiable physical objects (things) to their virtual representations online, which can contain or link to additional information on identity, status, location or any other business, social or privately relevant information. The intention is to provide access to accurate and appropriate information in the right quantity and condition, at the right time and place and at the right price. IBM's strategic Smarter Planet initiative, currently featuring in a mainstream UK TV advertising campaign, has been in place for a number of years. During the course of 2012, ny work as an IBMer has taken me into the world of Smarter Planet and in particular, into the field of Smart Grid and Smart Meters. Influenced by working with a team of experts, particularly Dr Andy Stanford-Clark (IBM's UK CTO for Smarter Energy), I set out to investigate the possibilities of the IoT for myself, determined to be able to talk to the myriad devices I use daily and to have them talk back to me. As a gauge of what can be achieved, I looked into the monitoring and automation that Andy had built into his own home on the Isle of Wight. In a 2012 TEDX talk at Warwick, Andy described how his experimenting moved from the personal to the local to the regional and how he believes that the Internet of Things will evolve as a global system of systems, interconnecting regional smart grids. To start with though, let's talk about some of the attributes of the Internet of Things: Pervasive Computing The IoT is based on the premise of pervasive computing. This means machine to machine communication (m2m) between potentially trillions of devices. These don't have to be just new "smart" devices. The availability of small, simple and low-cost components means that legacy devices can be connected as well. Each devices then exhibits three key characteristics:
The ready availability of low-cost compute nodes, such as arduino and nanode and more recently the Raspberry Pi makes it simple to get started with adding these capabilities to existing devices. |
Efficiently using your computer's hard drive
Our computers are used on a regularly basis by us, for a great many reasons. Whether it is for play or work, computers play a big role in our lives. Regardless of the things that we may do in our own lives, computers are right there to aid us. From holding our favourite music, storing our work files, saving our papers for school, there is no question that when it comes to them, we take full advantage of the storage capacity of our computers. Every file that you create and save is stored onto your hard disk drive. Hard drives are excellent components in that they enable us to save a finite number of songs, documents, movies and various other important data onto it, but the main limitation of them is that the space is limited. It would appear that there are hard drives out there with such large storage capacities that it would take forever for you to use all of it, but sometimes, they are still not enough. With that said there is always that option for you to search the marketplace for something a little more spacious and install that inside your computer, however, the amount of money that you may have to pay for the drive, may not warrant going through the trouble. If you find that you are running out of space on your computer, then an external hard drive may be the ideal solution for you. The external hard drive is not only ideal for storing all your data onto it, as it's also ideal for you to use it to back up the most important files on your computer. It's possible for you to purchase external drives in a number of storage amounts, so you should take the time to find the largest drive for the money. Backing everything up to one of these drives is very beneficial, especially if your system were to crash. With your important files backed up onto the external drive, even if your system were to fail, due to a hardware fault, the information that you've stored onto the external drive would still be accessible. External hard drives are also great in that they enable you to transfer data from one computer to another, with ease. If your someone who finds themselves in a number of different locations, on a regularly basis, then you may want to consider using an external hard drive to transfer the data that you work on from computer to computer. Uchenna Ani-Okoye has been writing articles online for many years now. For information on electronic gadgets and computers, including any questions that you may want answered, advice on specific products and recommendations, check out his latest websites Kobo Touch Browser and Remove A Trojan Horse Virus Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7401404 |
The Best Windows Keyword Board Shortcuts
Windows keyboard shortcuts can be a real time saver, so I've collected together the best ones that I use all the time. Now let's speed up how you work and wow your friends just by pressing two keys together at the same time! Personally, I blame the lack of keyboard shortcut awareness on the Mouse. Highlighting, right clicking, copying and pasting with countless clicks isn't fast or efficient, no matter how quickly you can click. Although the humble mouse did help to make computers accessible to the masses. So while touch screen technology may well take over from the traditional clackety keyboard, it still has a few tricks up its sleeve... especially when your mouse or touch pad has stopped working and you need to navigate a screen to solve the problem! Copy and Paste Combos These are the keyboard shortcuts everyone learns, so if you don't know them, it's essential that you do. These will save you massive amounts of time which you'd otherwise waste highlighting, right clicking, copying, right clicking and pasting with a Mouse. Ctrl and X will cut, transferring whatever you have selected to the clipboard and removing it from its original location. Ctrl and C will copy whatever you have selected without removing the original, this is what I'd recommend as it's safer - if you don't want something you can always just delete it later. Ctrl and V will paste the contents of the clipboard into the currently selected window. The great thing about these particular commands is that they work in most applications so you can use them to move images, text or even your files and folders. Also they work between applications, so as an example you could copy a picture or text from a webpage then paste it into a document or email. I'm also an avid user of Ctrl and S, which automatically saves whatever you've just changed in a document. In fact, I seem to do it after every small change, which is a real like saver when your PC or the program you're using crashes. Windows Key Located bottom left of your keyboard is the Windows Key with its familiar Windows 'panes' logo. Press it once to launch the Start Menu and use the Cursor Keys to navigate the menus and use the Enter Key to launch applications. Hold down the Windows Key and use the left and right Cursor Keys to scroll through the windows you currently have open. Alternatively, hold down the Windows Key and press numbers 1 through to 9 to quickly access applications pinned to the Taskbar. So let's say that Internet Explorer is the first shortcut pinned to your Taskbar, you could launch this by holding down the Windows Key and pressing the 1 Key. And quickly clear everything on your screen, you can also hold down the Windows Key and press D. Simply press it again to bring everything back. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7395012 |
How to Manufacture something
3D printing has the power to change some lives out there. There are so many applications to this technology, and there will continue to be an expansion of applications. Before we even cover some of the applications of this technology, let's discuss what 3D printing actually is. 3D printing is a form of manufacturing that combats the traditional styles of manufacturing. This process doesn't involve machining. This process doesn't involve a person chiseling away at a block of material. This manufacturing technology doesn't necessarily have to do with molds. It is different in its own way. Let's discuss what makes it different. 3D printing involves the layer by layer creation of products, parts, instruments, or whatever you'd like to name the final product. There are several styles of 3D printing, but most of which involve uploading a 3D image and clicking "go" on the machine used to manufacture parts, or the 3D printer. This technology operates using a CAM system, or a computer aided manufacturing system. This means that the computer will end up telling the ink jet, ultraviolet light, lasers, extruder, or whatever: where to go, and how much material to lay down. I've mentioned layers multiple times within this article, let me elaborate on those layers. For a product to come about through 3D printing, it will be manufactured layer by layer. There are several types of 3D printing like I mentioned earlier, but regardless of the method - this technology is a form of additive manufacturing. Additive manufacturing involves laying down layers of material on top of each other to result in a final product. Various methods involve laying down melted material on top of each other. Some methods involve an ultraviolet light curing liquid resins. Some methods involve melting together material with a laser, one layer at a time. There are quite a few options to which this technology should work. How does it all come together though; how does it work? Let me walk you through the process. For a person to receive a piece made through 3D printing, you need a few things. First off, you will need to design a 3D image. This image will serve as the blueprint for the product that you wish to manufacture. This can be made by you, or you can hire someone else to do it. Secondly, you will either need to purchase a printer, or more likely you will come into contact with a 3D printing facility. This facility will take your models, load them into the printer(s), and will manufacture them for you. So you would end up sending the digital image to the facility, the technicians would load the image into the 3D printer itself, and they would essentially press the "go" button. Some forms of this technology need de-powdering, infiltration, polishing, removal of support materials, or whatever! Some forms of this technology don't require any after-touches to be done to the final piece. It really depends on the method of 3D printing that you're interested in. Assuming that there isn't any after-touching to be done, after the model is manufactured, payment and shipping are the only real issues to deal with! There you have it, that's how 3D printing works in a nutshell. |
The Big C of Search Engine Marketing - Conversion
Probably it happened one night, while a group of geniuses were enjoying drinks in a pub exclusively open for SEO professionals, when someone popped the million dollar question: "So, what do we do with web traffic?" And probably, in a collective Eureka moment, the entire place erupted in unison: "Conversion!" While the story above is purely fiction, conversion optimization services are not. Search engine marketing companies are now not only held liable to bring traffic to websites, but compelling site visitors to take action that is favorable to a particular business. In a nutshell, conversion optimization services are strategies and tactics that online marketers employ to prompt website visitors take action that directly fulfills one of more of their business objectives. Fortunately, conversion optimization services are not built around rocket sciences. These strategies and tactics are anchored on age old marketing principles tailor fitted for the online audience. Calls-to-Action that Stand Out "Order now while supplies last." "Avail of your free trial today." "Call within the next three hours and get amazing discounts!" These are all examples of calls-to-action or CTAs. It's basically a one-liner used by search engine marketing companies to tell audience what to do. When someone responds to your call to action, then you have basically achieved conversion. CTAs play a crucial role in the success of any conversion optimization services. They should be crisp, clear, compelling and direct to the point. In your landing page, make sure that your CTA occupies a prominent spot and that it pops out visually to capture the web visitors' attention. Less is More Using sign up forms is one of the basic ways you can get information from your web visitors and later on, you can use the data in coming up with strategies and tactics that can fuel conversion optimization services. It's always best to incentivize your audience when they opt to accomplish your sign up form. It's a great way of creating a good first impression and also a great customer service tool to encourage repeat visitors. However, keep in mind that no likes to fill out a lengthy sign up form that is asking for tons of information. It has never worked before when it was done using pen and paper and even today in the digital age, it still won't work. Keep it short and sweet. Keep it simple. And if you're going to ask for personal data such as email addresses, be sure to protect their sanctity to prevent intrusion. Developing a Lust for Trust Let's admit it. Despite all the security measures that have been put into place, search engine marketing companies know that the Internet is still a dubious place. Deception is much easier to perform online than offline. With that being said, trust plays a central role in the success of conversion optimization services and your landing page or other high converting web pages should have trust indicators in them. This can include icons of third party groups that vouch for the integrity of your site. Probably the easiest way to get the trust of internet users is through the testimonials of others who have tried your products/services or those who have heeded to your CTA. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7401719 |
All About Lead Lined Products
Lead lined products and rooms are of such great importance in today's society. Lead linings are used the country over in countless facilities such as within hospitals and private clinical in order to provide medical radiation shielding. They are also used in construction and defence and help to protect people and the environment from harmful rays. Radiation protection has to be taken extremely seriously from medical to industrial and even to defence situations there is an application for lead radiation shielding. When one visits the hospital with a suspected broken bone or suchlike, we never take the time to think of how we are protected from harmful radiation overdoses. Lead lined doors are just one of the measures which are taken by the medical profession in order to keep both staff and patients safe. These are available to be manufactured to the needs of the facility and will therefore be a perfect fit with no leakages. The importance of radiation protection Radiation whether we like it or not is a necessity in our modern lives. There is no reason why any of us should be exposed to worrying levels or this now that there is radiation shielding available. Without radiation and advances in technology healthcare, defence and industries such as construction would be left in the dark ages. This is why it is so very important to be protected now and to continue to make the advances in work and healthcare which we have been for many years. Radiation protection is so very important as if an individual working near a radiation source is left unprotected, this can cause damaging and irreversible changes to the body. Overexposure to high levels increases the likelihood of contracting all manner of tumours and cancers too. Another problem with overexposure is that it can bring on radiation sickness and nasty skin burns too. Industry
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What You Should Know About 3D Printing
3D printing is a fascinating technology that has already impacted the world in quite a few ways, but will continue doing so. This technology has the power to save lives, provide powerful tools, change the way products are made, change the way product development testing is done, and bring manufacturing to virtually anyone with a computer and basic modeling skills. Who does this technology impact the most? How easy is it to manufacture through this technology? What are some of the feats done by this technology? Where is it going? I'll do my best to answer those questions to the best of my ability. 3D printing is a technology that is for anyone who wants to manufacture, make, build, or design products. Anytime a person thinks of "manufacturing," the idea that thousands of dollars typically comes up. Another connotation to manufacturing is the difficulty to do it, and the need for strong logistics to bring it all together. This is somewhat of a thing of the past now, due to 3D printing. There is really only one significant need when a person is thinking about manufacturing through 3D printing. That need is a 3D model. If the person can design on the computer, or get an artist to design for them - 3D printing is accessible. That's pretty much it. Some forms of this technology can be expensive, but you have the power to manufacture a design that you can have in your hand for less than $30. Some orders may cost multiple thousands, and some may cost less than the shipping. There is so much variance in what you make, but ultimately - it's affordable, and available to anyone who can come up with a 3D design. How easy is it to manufacture through this technology? Well, if you can have a model designed like I mentioned earlier - you've done more than half the work. If you can also contact a 3D printing facility, you are almost entirely finished. It's as simple as finding an international or local printing facility, sending them the model, getting a quote, and manufacturing. That's it. What can be done by this technology? That is an incredibly vague question, because 3D printing can do pretty much whatever you need it to. There are well over 100 materials to choose from, so your needs can likely be filled. People are manufacturing pieces in metal, plastics, full color material, flexible material, heat resistant materials, chemical resistant materials, wax materials for casting, etc. There are so many materials to choose from and so many methods - there are just too many options. If you can design it, there is a high chance that it can be made. Where is 3D printing going? Like I just mentioned, this technology can make pretty much anything. People are creating jewelry, special tools for engineering, character models & art, marketing diagrams, parts applying to the military and aerospace industry, and medical applications. There really isn't a limit to what 3D printing can touch, so I can't give a definitive answer as to where this technology is heading. I can confidently tell you that it is going up at a nearly exponential rate. Material science is going to improve, giving artists and engineers more to work with. The speed of this technology is also going to improve. The size of models produced may improve. Also, the price may become more economical. Ultimately, this technology is going to continue expanding. |
Saturday 1 December 2012
open source apps for mac users
Yes, you read that right. No matter what the warlords at Apple may tell you, you can run open source apps even if you are using Mac OS, which itself is closed source. Wondering why you ought to choose open source? Well, for a start, owning a Mac is an expensive proposition, so opting for open source applications on the Mac is one decision your wallet will appreciate. Second, it is common knowledge that open source applications are updated more frequently, are community-driven, and easily customisable. What more can one ask for? The Internet Adium: This is an open source messenger that lets you connect to multiple IM platforms, such as AOL and GTalk (via Jabber). If you are a social networking addict and like to chat with your friends online, Adium can come in handy. Juice: Do you happen to be a creative artist? If you use the Internet to showcase your work using podcasts, you won't find a better podcasting tool for Mac than Juice. It is totally free and open source, so give it a spin! Office suites and productivity AbiWord: Here's yet another open source and totally free word processor. LibreOffice: If a mere word processor won't do for you, instead of burning money on proprietary office suites, take a look at LibreOffice. It's a full-fledged productivity suite that comes with its own word processor, spreadsheet, drawing program and many other features. Scribus: This is an open source desktop publishing program. The installation procedure on the Mac is a little complicated, but it is totally worth the effort as Scribus is one of the most impressive DTP tools, no matter what OS you are running! Freemind: This is an open source note taking application. Audio and video VLC Media Player: This world-renowned media player is also available for the Mac. MPlayer: While not as good-looking as Miro, and with an interface that does not blend well with the look and feel of a Mac, it does support more video formats than VLC or QuickTime—and that's what matters, at the end of the day! iPodDisk: Here is an open source utility that lets you copy music to and from your iPod—you do not need iTunes or any other proprietary software. Audacity: This is a sound-recording and audio-editing application that is both free and open source. Pictures and graphics InkScape: This lets you work with vector images and graphics. You can create logos and other vector-based artwork using InkScape. Blender: This is a 3D modelling tool that gives even proprietary software a run for their money. CD/DVD ripping Burn: It is a simple and easy-to-use CD/DVD burning app for the Mac OS. Cyberduck: This is a good open source FTP client that comes with an impressive set of features. OneButton FTP: Here's another FTP client for Mac users. |
When password security questions aren't secure
When you select a password, you might choose to store it in a password manager, write it down, or commit it to memory (see "How to remember passwords" for some advice). Sometimes, however, things go wrong: You find yourself without access to your password manager, you lose the paper on which you recorded your passwords, or you forget a password you thought you memorized. Or maybe someone tries to break into one of your accounts, and after a few unsuccessful attempts at entering your password, the site locks out further access until you can confirm your identity. In all those cases, online services need a secondary way of granting you access to your account or your data when you don't have (or can't use) your password. Sometimes—especially in lower-security situations such as access to an online publication or discussion forum—the provider lets you click a link that results in your existing password, a new password, or password-reset instructions being sent to the email address you have on file. When those simple mechanisms are considered too insecure, the site may ask you to respond to verification questions for which you've previously provided the answers. Unfortunately, password-reset messages and verification questions come with their own problems and risks. You can reduce your chances of being hacked—or being unable to respond correctly to one of these questions—by following a few simple tips. Prevent password-reset mischiefOf all your passwords, the one for your email account may be the most valuable. That's because whoever has access to your email account will be able to read and click links in any password-reset messages you receive (such as when you click an 'I Forgot My Password' link). A hacker who guessed or stole just that one password could unlock many other accounts and do all sorts of damage. You can limit your risk here in a couple of ways. Use a dedicated password-reset account: Consider setting up a new email account for yourself (using a free service such as Gmail) with an address that you'll never share or post publicly. Use this account only when prompted to supply an email address for the purpose of verifying or resetting your passwords. That way, even if someone breaks into your main email account, the security of your other accounts won't be compromised. Take extra care with your email account password: Be sure to choose an especially secure password for your email account. Make sure to set your email client to communicate securely with the mail server—using Secure Sockets Layer, or SSL, protocols for example—so that your password never travels over the air unencrypted. In Apple's Mail, select Mail > Preferences, click Accounts, choose an email account from the list, and click Advanced. Here you'll see the option Use SSL. Question the questionsSecurity questions—such as the timeless classic "What is your mother's maiden name?"—are supposed to have answers that you'll never forget but that most other people won't know or be able to guess. Unfortunately, most of the questions from which you can choose aren't secure at all. Your mother's maiden name is a matter of public record, and nearly anyone can learn it online in a few minutes. If you ever wrote a blog entry or a Facebook post about your first pet, your favorite teacher, or other common security question topics, those facts are in the public domain too. To make matters worse, some questions invite ambiguous answers, which could work against you. Where did you meet your spouse? That might be "in New York" or "at a baseball game" or "at Yankee Stadium," for example. Years from now, will you remember which answer you gave? Devise memorable lies: To address such problems, there's only one right way to answer verification questions—lie. And don't just lie, but come up with one or more answers that follow the same rules as other passwords to prevent guessability; use either a reasonably long (but memorable) phrase or a series of random characters. So, what was the name of my first pet? Why, it was bookends-qualitative. My mother's maiden name? Her dad was Mr. E27jrdU!8. My favorite car? I loved my 1986 Toyota Recalibration Cantaloupe. It doesn't matter what answers you give, as long as you and you alone know what they are, and can supply the same ones you entered previously if asked. I know one security expert who says he normally uses the same pseudo-random answer everywhere, although some companies (including Apple) require you to provide different answers to each of several questions—meaning you have even more password-like data to keep track of. Of course, you can write down your answers or store them in a password manager, but then the same problems that prevent you from accessing your password could prevent you from accessing your security answers. You might make up a little story for yourself about fictional parents, cars, pets, and the like that you can memorize and then draw on when asked for security answers on different sites. Ultimately, since you're not going to be giving truthful answers, you should go out of your way to remember which lie(s) you told. Keep them phone friendly: Remember that you could wind up in a situation where you'll have to supply these answers over the phone. If that should happen, both you and the person on the other end will have an easier time coping with a series of plain-English words than a bunch of random characters. How to change your security questions and answersEach service that uses security questions has its own procedure for choosing the questions and answers (and for changing them after the fact). Check the FAQ pages on the websites for your bank and other important accounts to see how to modify your responses.  Update your Apple info: To change the questions or answers for an Apple ID (which you use for iCloud, among many other purposes), go to the Apple ID page, click Manage your Apple ID, enter your username and password, and click Sign in. On the left, choose Password and Security. Answer your existing security questions, and click Continue. Then you can choose new questions and answers (remember, no two answers can be the same) and also edit your Rescue Email Address if you like. Click Save when you're done.  Update your Google info: If you have a Google account (for Gmail and other services), log in as you normally would. Click the gear icon in the upper-right corner of the window and choose Settings from the pop-up menu. Click Accounts and Import followed by Change password recovery options. Under Security question, click Edit. Choose one of the existing security questions or write your own, and fill in your answer. If you also want to change your secondary address, click the Edit link in the 'Recovery email address' section and fill in the new address. Then click Save. |